Turks and Caicos Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 25 | No. 07 | February 19 - 25, 2011

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Property tax



National conversation report due for release

HIGHLY anticipated findings from the ‘national conversation’ are set to be made public within days.

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Cutbacks at the Community College EDUCATION could be at risk if the government does not step up and support the TCI Community College.

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plans ditched

PLANS to introduce controversial property taxes have been ditched after being deemed neither “feasible or prudent” in the current economic clime.

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Model boat race a sail away success BRIGHT skies, calm seas, a solid breeze, live music and home cooking all made for a spectacular day out at the Valentine’s Day Cup in Middle Caicos this weekend.

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major car

'scam'

trial begins

TRINIDADIAN born Angela Ramcharitar faced trial before a judge and jury in the Supreme Court this week and may take the stand to give evidence in her defence.

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Photo by Islandcom

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 19 - 25, 2011

February 19 - 25, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 19 - 25, 2011

NATIONAL

Featured Letter Absurdity of American Airlines Dear Editor, Five hundred and seventy-five dollars for one hour and twenty minutes on a plane! And not a peanut or pretzel in sight!

Surely the Miami/Provo/ - Provo/Miami route is the most lucrative for American Airlines, regardless of how few seats are filled.

A frequently-viewed feature on Cable TV, outlining the operations of American and how it justifies its fares – high fuel costs, weather factors that ground flights, mechanical problems, etcetera and more etcetera – leaves everyone who travels between Miami and Provo totally unimpressed, wondering how the airline can often charge $824 return Miami/Paris vs. $834 return Miami/Provo – and while I understand that there are as many fares as there are flights, none of them comes with a ‘special’ fare, or those discounts offered to lure tourists to all other islands in the Caribbean.

If one plans one’s travel correctly, there’s even a great fare to Paris – but never one to Provo. We pay what American demands, or we don’t fly. Living in South Florida, I have no travel options, and even Delta requires a 14-hour layover from Palm Beach to Provo. Absurd!

Senior discount? Never! And why is there even a category for ‘seniors’ on the American site? Any discount? Absolutely not in my lifetime. Anyone flying here on a frequent basis is entitled to nothing except scalping – and I find myself pleased when I’m offered ice in my choice of beverage. No exaggeration.

Having arrived three days ago (I’ve been coming to Provo for almost three years) – minus the luggage that no one can locate! – I ask why there hasn’t been a general uprising on the part of the tourists who find this island so inviting.

Are there only sheep deplaning on one of the three daily flights, happily shelling out an ever-increasing bundle of money without a murmur, without any protestation whatsoever?

And what’s the Tourist Bureau doing to improve this atrocity? Can no other airline be tempted to include Provo on their schedule?

Jet Blue was once a candidate, but they opted for a New York origin instead. We are prisoners of American’s knowledge that they’ve got the TCI route in their pocket, and with no regard whatsoever to the soul of a country, they just continue robbing their passengers, getting away with whatever figure is currently pulled out of their corporategreed hats – and why not?

We’ve given them the green light, and people only act as they’ve been trained to act!

Joan LaFontaine

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

National conversation report due for release

By Gemma Handy HIGHLY anticipated findings from the ‘national conversation’ are set to be made public within days.

And they are expected to reignite vehement discussions on the country’s future.

A lengthy 78-page report documenting Islanders’ views on everything from the imposition of new taxes to civil service reform has now been compiled and handed over to PDM leader Douglas Parnell.

Mr Parnell – who commissioned the exercise which included lively public meetings and panel discussions across the Islands – will review the document and release it next week.

Coordinator Sharlene CartwrightRobinson said the five-part report included full details of the town hall meeting discussions. It will also be presented to the Governor, British Ministers and the TCI All Party Parliamentary Group.

“It was indeed a pleasure to be a part of what I consider a useful and worthwhile exercise and every effort has been made to capture in writing what is on the minds and in the hearts of the people of these Islands,” Ms Cartwright-Robinson said.

The consultative forum member said it was vital residents continue to express themselves.

“I believe that it is equally vital that the UK now plays its part and begins a dialogue with the people of these Islands based on this report and other matters.

“The UK must not just listen but must take heed to the views of the people and must address these and other pertinent issues in the best interests of the people of these Islands.”

She continued that turn-out to the meetings may not have always been high but that it yielded “heated and beneficial” dialogue.

The ‘national conversation’ was co-ordinated by consultative forum member Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson.

The most pertinent topics of discussion included the economy and potential new taxation, the need for better policing of the immigration system to ensure Belongers are given job priority, and the ongoing ‘right-sizing’ of the public service which many anticipate will see job cuts.

Crime and the inability of former inmates to find employment, electoral reform and transparency and accountability in the interim Government also received significant attention.

Island-specific issues included concerns over proposed sand mining in North and Middle Caicos, the woeful state of the causeway and the lack of basic supplies at South Caicos clinic.

Ms Cartwright-Robinson added

special thanks to media including the Free Press, PTV and RTC for helping spread the word about the national conversation, keeping Islanders informed and allowing them a forum for expression.

Mr Parnell told the Weekly News the report would be “very interesting”.

“The last four years of maladministration and the imposition of direct rule has had a severe toll on people, not just financially but psychologically, and I think the report will show that.”

Mr Parnell called upon Islanders to take part in what he described as a “national negotiation” with the UK in November.

“No changes can be embedded unless we agree as a people for them to become a part of us,” he said.

Fish and golf for charity ISLANDERS are invited to enjoy two top pastimes this March to help raise cash for worthy causes.

This spring The Wine Cellar is hosting its first three day golf and fishing tournament and staff hope to raise lots of community support.

Twenty per cent of the proceeds from the fun-filled event will go straight to the Edward C Gartland Youth Centre and the Provo Hockey League.

Sales and marketing representative Desmond Williams said the event

was being held “in the spirit of giving back”.

“The Wine Cellar Golf and Fishing Tournament allows families and friends to get together and enjoy a few days of wholesome fun while taking advantage of the islands’ various abundant natural resources (sun and sea).”

The fishing tournament will take place at Turtle Cove Marina on Friday, March 25, and Saturday, March 26.

Anglers will compete to catch the heaviest fish of the day and the most fish from a choice of mahi-mahi,

tuna, and wahoo.

There will be a cash prize for the ‘catch of the day’ each day plus cash prizes for first, second, and third place finishers based on most poundage of fish caught.

Potential participants are asked to register soon as there are spaces for only 40 vessels with a maximum of four anglers per boat.

The golf tournament will be held on Sunday, March 27, at Provo Golf and Country Club.

For more information on registration and format call the golf club on 946-5991.

February 19 - 25, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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NATIONAL

Property tax plans ditched

By Gemma Handy

PLANS to introduce controversial property taxes have been ditched after being deemed neither “feasible or prudent” in the current economic clime.

The Government says it has accepted the conclusions of financial experts who have been carrying out a study into the TCI’s sources of revenue.

The news is likely to be met with relief among many Islanders who felt the levy would spell disaster for the real estate industry.

A small annual tax on property was among a handful of proposals bandied about last year for boosting public coffers.

Currently, stamp duty is the only form of taxation on the industry, one of the country’s financial buttresses.

This week a public consultation on tax reform was set to begin following the release of a presentation charting the country’s economic and fiscal history since the 1990s.

The document demonstrates the evolution of the tourism, construction

and real estate sectors amid a booming and, later, dwindling economy.

British-appointed chief economic advisor to the Governor, Brian Titley, said the presentation emphasised the “fragility” of the TCI’s economy.

Poor administration and unsustainable growth in recent years, through an over-investment in construction that outpaced demand, are cited as chief causes.

“These problems have built up over time and will not go away overnight.

Corrective action is needed and now. Whatever administration is in government would face the same tough choices,” Mr Titley said.

He continued that the benefits of the rapid growth were too “narrowly distributed and short-lived”.

“At the same time there was a three-fold increase in public sector spending to the exclusion of much needed investments in other business sectors, public infrastructure and in the education and training required to modernise public services and the economy.

“Together these decisions

“Corrective action is needed now” – chief economic advisor Brian Titley.

increased the vulnerability of the economy to external shocks.”

Mr Titley said the Islands’ already small economy was in danger of further shrinkage.

He said it was vital to correct public finances, improve public services, grow the consumer base and remove obstacles to business innovation, creation and competition.

“Not to do so will only damage the interests of Belongers and all

residents in the long run.”

Stakeholders are to be quizzed for their views on strengthening the Islands’ fiscal status. Value added tax (VAT), or sales tax, was also proposed last year with mixed views expressed. A form of consumption tax, VAT comprises a levy on the purchase price of goods bought, unlikely to be popular as global food prices continue to soar.

Critical decisions are expected to be reached imminently, with the new budget due for release next month.

The forthcoming $260m rescue package is being lauded as a leap forward, although finance chiefs concede revenue reform is still “essential” in light of a growing deficit.

They said public sector debt had “exploded” in the last five years, despite buoyant revenues during the middle of the last decade from Crown land sales and increased imports of construction materials.

Chief financial officer Caroline Gardner said debt would continue to spiral unless “wasteful” public

spending is cut and revenues improved.

“A narrow tax base, poor tax administration and the unchecked granting of tax exemptions and concessions by the previous administration have undermined the public revenue system in the TCI. It is no longer fit for a modernising economy.

“The need for reform has long been recognised within the Ministry of Finance but was overlooked by previous administrations.”

Ms Gardner said both “winners and losers” were inevitable from the changes ahead.

“But some existing taxes can be simplified and replaced by more efficient ones so the overall burden need not increase significantly.

“This, however, cannot take place overnight because new tax collection systems first need to be in place,” she added.

Work on the EU-funded revenue study began in October last year in the wake of Professor Alan Roe’s review of the TCI system in early 2010.

Cutbacks at the Community College

By Rebecca Bird EDUCATION could be at risk if the government does not step up and support the TCI Community College.

That’s the word from chairman of the board of governors, Carlton Mills, this week.

The former Minister of Education revealed that the college has already suffered cutbacks from their government support package.

They currently receive $131,000 per month – just enough to pay salaries and some utilities, according to Dr Mills.

But the government has announced further cuts which may leave them with just $116,000 a month and in financial dire straits.

At a press conference at the Providenciales campus on Old Airport Road Dr Mills revealed that he would be talking with officials from the Finance Department in an attempt to persuade them to put a halt to any further action.

He said that the board of governors has put together a financial analysis of the college’s needs and costs which includes security and transportation, and proves that further cuts would be detrimental.

“It’s so upsetting,” he told media, “if we want to grow this country, education is a critical element.”

This week the country’s two political parties stepped up to support the college’s plight.

Clayton Greene, leader of the Progressive National Party (PNP), declared that he has written to Governor Gordon Wetherell requesting that his administration liaises with two PNP-appointed individuals on all matters affecting education.

“We understand that for the Turks and Caicos Islander education continues to be the principle path to empowerment and a better life,” Mr Greene said.

“Our forefathers were denied formal education because those who controlled their destiny understood

that education made individuals and people less subservient.

“Unfortunately, that very same repressive mentality seems to be echoed once again by this administration.

“We continue to carry with us the hopes and dreams of the people of these islands for a full degree granting institution to call our own.

“The proposed cuts to the subvention will delay this dream if not kill it altogether.”

PDM leader Doug Parnell said it is “deeply unfortunate and sad” that the government is in a position where they have to decide whether to pay for health care, civil servants’ salaries or education expenses.

“These are tough choices,” he told the Weekly News, “however it is easy for people to sit back and criticise.

“Make no mistake I don’t want to see any cuts to education but people need to recognise why it has to happen.

“It’s not just because of the

“If we want to grow this country, education is critical” – Carlton Mills.

economic situation but a destructive period in government.

“All of the pain that the people of country experience is the direct consequence of maladministration and poor governance on the part of the former government.”

He added that while the PDM

will not be appointing specific individuals to liaise with the government on education, they have always taken a policy of engaging with and confronting the current administration on all matters.

During the press conference Dr Mills revealed that in an attempt to become more self-sufficient the Community College is looking at introducing a range of undergraduate programmes.

Discussions are currently underway with the University of West Indies with a view to introducing a range of bachelor degree courses to the college this September.

If all goes to plan students will no longer have to leave the islands to earn a degree in education, business, information technology and paralegal studies.

The college has also launched a foundation to raise further funds which has already received a donation of $10,000 from one individual.

“We’re pleading for funding and assistance,” Dr Mills stressed.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 19 - 25, 2011

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

What’s cooking AS GLOBAL food prices continue to soar, we asked readers what you thought should be done to ease the pressure on consumers.

What, if anything, should the Government be doing? Would price controls help – or just put retailers out of business?

No to VAT

“If everyone thinks that prices on island are bad now, if VAT is brought in everything, with very few exceptions such as food staples, baby food, books and some baby items, will have an additional per cent put on it if they follow the standard rules of VAT that are used in the UK. “This will also include all services as well. The cost of living on island will dramatically increase and this will also mean that anything that you purchase off island when it arrives on island will have VAT put on it, including shopping trips to Miami or even holiday purchases over your personal limit of $400 which is what is in place now.

“In the meantime the only thing we can do is to shop around and try to find the shops which have the lowest prices.

“Price controls would not work and would not be enforceable by the Government. It is up to retailers to charge what they want or need to charge and consumers to decide if they will pay it.

“Looking at some of the monopolies such as PPC and Provo Stevedoring and the prices they are being allowed to charge would help everyone on island and lower the cost of living.

“The new PPC offices are simply rubbing everyone’s noses in the new price increases!”

Control monopolies

“Groceries are traditionally high volume, low profit margin commodities. With big grocers like IGA and Island Pride setting the scale of their premises and operation

on the pumped up synthetic economy we experienced starting in 2004 we now have to face the reality that prices must rise to pay the overhead of these large operations with the volume returning to levels similar to that which was normal prior to an economy financed by loans and sales of Crown land.

“The debts which have been built up even in private business must now be paid down with a higher cost of living.

“Control of monopolies like Provo Stevedoring and PPC could have a positive effect on prices. It is doubtful either monopoly will ever be audited.

“The ultimate question is, will the big grocers survive?”

United effort

“The general blame for rising costs to consumers in and around the US is rising commodity costs, demands of wheat, rice, soybeans, sugar, cocoa, coffee which then affect animal feeds such as beef, pork, chicken etc.

“I believe it becomes easiest to pass on costs to consumers than to adjust corporate budgets.

“Yes we in the US have all noticed considerable rises in food, clothing, household supplies, home and car repair.

“It is all on the rise. Also quantities and weights are being lowered such as we saw happen years ago when they started lowering the pound of coffee ounce by ounce over the years but the package looked the same.

“All customers would benefit by being cautiously aware of what price they are really paying per pound or per unit or per ounce and never shop without a list, sticking to it religiously.

“Most ‘sales’ items, such as two for the price of one, and others are often on luxury items not basics.

“Stick to a plan so they don’t stick it to you.

“Join a church, start a food bank, make an extra meal or two for the elderly or infirm.

Try not to waste and share if you are able.

“The weekly TC newspapers can easily spread the word on how to relieve the struggle and contribute to solving the problem of rising costs to individuals by asking for more suggestions and action from the TC community.

“No one should be put out of business if they are honestly assisting and aiding rather than greedily adding to the very real and very big problem.”

Stevedoring system

“Break the Provo Stevedoring monopoly!”

Join forces

“I think that certain items have to be placed under price control. However with the import duties on infant and baby products being reduced or exempt, businesses have yet to pass on the savings.

“Yes there has been an increase in groceries and why did the powers that be think that hiking the duties on ice cream and simple treats would be a good thing?

“Not all of us like yogurts, come on man, gimme a break.

“The only advice I can offer on savings is get with three other householders and order your canned stuff, toiletries and nonperishables and ship them in.

“Order enough for at least six months, then just worry about your meats. It really can save you a lot.

“Oh and yes we can grow our own veggies.”

Plan ahead

“I’ve been trying to cut my food bill with very little success. The idea is to make a list and stick to it - which means planning meals in advance, or choices of meals.

“Also you need to take advantage of sales,

if they are really sales. Third rate goods at second rate prices aren’t really a deal.

“Deals on foods you would not normally eat (high sugar or salt items, packaged meals, etc in our household) are not worth looking at, in my book.

“When you eat fresh foods, as we do, it is necessary to shop every second or third day because if you did buy enough fresh fruit or veggies for the week, many of them will be spoiled after three days.

“So back to the store I go and other items find their way into the cart. Voila - another big bill.

“I think retailers have had it pretty good here. We have the population to warrant discounted prices but prices are still cheaper in Grand Turk - or so they say.”

Show some initiative

“Food prices are increasing the world over but some countries (such as TCI) are affected more adversely than others.

“There’s not much that can or will be done to help the consumer as everyone along the line, from grower to consumer, needs to keep up with the increase in the cost of living, and who’s going to say ‘I’ll cut my prices, just to be helpful?’

“I understand there’s land on North Caicos which would support some measure of agriculture and this showed great promise years ago – until the Government raised the prices of imports necessary to implement the plan.

“It’s possible to produce fruits and vegetables on at least two of the islands – but is there the initiative to begin this venture?

“And would the Government be willing to fully cooperate?”

 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

Axe air tax, says British MP

By Paul Baker A LEADING British politician has called for air passenger duty in the TCI to be suspended.

Lord Nigel Jones wants the charge shelved while the country is under direct rule, in a bid to boost tourism.

He is also demanding changes in the pension regulations affecting UK ex-pats living in the Islands.

The Liberal Democrat peer, who last week met with PDM leader Doug Parnell in London, has tabled questions on the issues in the House of Lords.

He told the Weekly News: “It does seem unfair that at a time when the TCI is trying

to get back onto its feet economically, air passenger duty is imposed which may affect the number of visitors the Islands can attract.

“Therefore I have asked Her Majesty’s Government if they will suspend air passenger duty for visitors to the TCI while the territory remains under direct rule.”

He added: “Beyond that I have also asked what would be the cost of abolishing the duty in the overseas territories for good.”

Meanwhile Lord Jones, who is vice chairman of the British Government’s All Party Committee on the TCI, wants Prime Minister David Cameron to sanction an overhaul of pension regulations for UK ex-pats living

abroad.

Currently, Britons have their state benefits frozen the moment they leave the UK to live in the TCI, although that is not the case if they move to other countries.

“I have also asked the question what would be the cost of abolishing the regulations freezing state pensions, without retrospection, for those who qualify and live in each member of the Commonwealth, the United States of America and the Philippines,” added Lord Jones.

“I mention the USA and Philippines because I understand they are exempt from the frozen pensions regulations, as is Bermuda, Gibraltar and the countries of

the EU - a reason for which has never been satisfactorily given.

“I have been aware that many of those who decide to live somewhere other than the UK have their state pensions frozen on the day they leave.

“Some countries are exempt, but it does seem bizarre that most overseas territories, like the TCI, have these regulations applied.

“I have asked the UK Government how many people, if any, are affected in TCI and I will press for the regulations to be abolished for the overseas territories, particularly as they do not apply to places like Bermuda or Gibraltar.”

February 19 - 25, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

7

NATIONAL

British bailout causes beef in London But UK Gov’t says rescue is vital as TCIG’s annual debt interest payments hit $14m

By Gemma Handy CONTROVERSY has erupted in Britain over taxpayers’ money being risked to bail out cash-strapped TCI. MP Harriet Harman, deputy leader of the opposition Labour Party, hit out at plans for the UK to underwrite the forthcoming $260m loan to lift the Islands out of financial distress.

She accused the Foreign Office of shifting its responsibilities to the Department for International Development (DFID), which is organising the rescue package.

“This looks suspiciously like another example of where the FCO is looking to DFID to bankroll its obligations which are not genuine development issues,” she stormed.

Ms Harman proceeded to drag International Development Secretary Andrew Mitchell over the coals in Parliament this week.

She quizzed Mr Mitchell over conditions being placed on the TCI for the loan guarantee, which was due to be officially sanctioned yesterday (Thursday).

Mr Mitchell said the UK was obliged by law to promote the wellbeing of residents in its overseas territories (OTs).

“This Government fully intends to stand by their commitments to the OTs. We will not let TCI fall victim to financial ruin.

“If DFID had to provide money in the event that the guarantee is called, this would not count as official development assistance.”

Mr Mitchell reiterated London’s stance that the Islands must strengthen its public finances and achieve a fiscal surplus by the end of March 2013, in return for the monetary injection.

“These are continuing, not only

initial, conditions. Further conditions are not needed because the UK Government currently intends to retain sufficient financial control over public finances in order to ensure that TCIG emerges from its financial crisis as soon as possible, and that the loan guarantee arrangement is no longer needed.”

He added that the main objective was to give TCIG access to commercial lending which would not be available without the guarantee.

TCI’s cause has also been vigorously supported by the chairman of the TCI All Party Parliamentary Group, Andrew Rosindell, who said that helping places which fly the Union Jack should take precedence over third world development.

Meanwhile it has emerged that the TCI is currently shelling out a colossal $14m a year in interest alone on its crippling debts.

Speculation is rife that much of the $260m package will be used to restructure debt to lower the interest rate.

But confirmation of this and further details from the interim administration were frustratingly scarce this week, despite repeated

British politician Harriet Harman is concerned about British taxpayers’ money.

requests from the Weekly News.

A presentation released last week, charting the country’s fiscal history

over the last two decades, revealed that national debt had soared by 400 per cent between year end 2006 and 2011.

Total public sector liabilities now stand at an immense $365m including unpaid creditors and the new hospitals.

The report goes on to state that, while growing the economy is vital, it will not close the budget deficit.

It warns of “tough choices” ahead, between expanding the tax base and cutting “wasteful” public expenditure.

“Many other countries, both regionally and globally, are undertaking similar actions to control their public sector costs and finances, and to reduce their indebtedness,” it concludes.

“At no time have I used my Belonger status” – Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart.

Belongership was an act of “goodwill” – Butch Stewart

PDM chiefs met with Lord Nigel Jones (second from left) during their trip to London.

PDM leader talks “useful” - Lord Jones LORD Nigel Jones has described talks with PDM leader Doug Parnell in London last week as “useful and encouraging”.

The Liberal Democrat peer and Parnell met during the TCI politician’s week-long visit to Britain.

Lord Jones is vice-chairman of the UK Government’s All Party Committee on the TCI and has long been an expert on overseas territories.

He is also an outspoken critic of the TCI being currently under British rule.

He said: “It was a real pleasure to catch up with Doug Parnell. He

is both an interesting and passionate person with a deep love and concern for his country.

“It was useful to meet him and his colleagues to receive an update on current conditions in the TCI and concerns of the Islanders.

“We discussed a number of topics and I learned a lot. This was encouraging and will enable me to press the UK Government further on an early resolution of TCI’s democratic limbo status and early elections.

“Much depends on the work of

the special prosecutor’s team to end the uncertainty. I know they are working hard, but it does seem to be taking rather a long time to come to any conclusions.”

He added: “I am now more aware of the financial pressures on the TCI budget regarding reduced revenues and fixed costs.

“I hope Mr Parnell and his delegation feel that their visit was useful as I certainly did.

“At least they know that TCI has some real friends in the UK Parliament.”

SANDALS boss Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart says he has never used his TCI Belongership to “gain favour” in the Islands.

The announcement – made via his newspaper, the Jamaica Observer – came amid claims made by Mr Stewart of a smear campaign against him.

It comes weeks after the hotel chain confirmed it had been voluntarily assisting in the TCI government corruption probe.

“At no time have I used my Belonger status nor have I employed it to gain favour in any way,” Mr Stewart told the newspaper.

He said Belongership was granted to him, his family and Dr Jeffery Pine, former managing director of Gorstew (Stewart’s holding company), by the former ousted Government.

Such status allows the holder to vote in general elections, reside and work in the TCI, hold political office and acquire Crown land.

It can be bestowed according to the immigration status of a parent or spouse. It may also be given following a worthwhile investment

or other significant contribution to the country.

Beaches Resort & Spa – a subsidiary of Sandals – is one of the Islands’ largest resorts and biggest employers.

Mr Stewart said he had not paid for his Belongership and had no interest in buying Crown land in the TCI. He added: “I am proud of the fact that we have created and continue to operate the best family resort of its kind in the Caribbean, which has played no small part in helping the airlift in the TCI. “We are in the TCI to develop a tourism product and we are extremely proud of what Jamaicans have achieved with this worldrenowned hotel. What we are not there to do is benefit from any sort of government favouritism.”

Sandals’ assistance with the ongoing corruption investigations recently saw the company shop a former crooked employee for “unauthorised transactions”.

The staff member in question had been “closely associated with the governing administration,” Sandals’ lawyer Dmitri Singh said.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 19 - 25, 2011

NATIONAL

No timetable for independence – Parnell

By Gemma Handy BRITAIN wishes to “re-engage” with TC Islanders as part of an ongoing shift in stance towards its territory.

But there will be no specific timetable towards independence, with the onus on the TCI to prove it can govern itself.

That’s the view of PDM leader Douglas Parnell, fresh from a trip to London where party bigwigs met up with UK decision-makers.

“There has been a drastic shift in stance from the former Labour Government. The UK’s coalition Government will stick more closely to the wishes of the people,” he told the Weekly News.

“The long term view seems to be re-engagement with the TCI and the region as a whole.”

He said London had reiterated that independence would be granted if it was the express wish of the people.

“But there’s no specific timetable for it; it’s more that we have to prove we can govern ourselves.

“Moving towards independence is a process which involves a great deal of discussion.”

Mr Parnell said he “fully expects” elections to be held next year ahead of a return to self-rule.

He continued that the forthcoming $260m rescue package, from commercial lenders, would send a “very strong message” to investors that the UK was firmly behind the TCI. “Britain has a moral obligation to us because it intervened to impose direct rule. It has a responsibility, it

can’t just walk away.

“British taxpayers are the ultimate backers if this loan is called in – so that’s a big deal.

“For us it means money in the bank, and the ability to access it that we would not have had otherwise.”

The party leader said he believed the money would be used to restructure existing debt, reducing the current crippling interest rates being forked out and freeing up cash.

“I am hoping the new interest rate will be no higher than one to two per cent.”

But he said the monetary injection still fell short of what was needed to lift the Islands out of financial malaise and repair much-needed infrastructure.

“We impressed on the UK the significance of important pieces of infrastructure such as South Caicos airport, the causeway, Millennium Highway and Ona Glinton Primary School.

“We have identified a number of community projects in all islands that need urgent attention.”

Mr Parnell said the delegation had called for an oversight committee to supervise the allocation of the cash.

“These are funds that the TCI will have to account for. We need to have a transparent way of knowing what’s going on in government.”

The PDM leader continued that it was vital London agree to follow recommendations that it foot the bill for the pricey corruption prosecutions.

“We feel we have still got a strong

Senior FCO official Caroline Rowett with Princie Harris, PDM national chairman, and PDM leader Douglas Parnell (right) at a reception event in London.

case for that and we will continue to press for it.

“I feel at some point in the future we will hear a positive announcement on that.”

The group attained audiences with several Foreign Office officials

Budding banker brings new skills home PROVO’S newest bank has welcomed home the first graduate of a special trainee programme designed to develop homegrown talent.

Jamie Wilson is looking forward to putting his new skills to the test after successful completion of the first part of the prestigious Cayman Islands-based course.

International Banking Group opened in Graceway last summer promising to help create the financiers of the future.

Its graduate leadership trainee programme was launched in February 2009 to provide speedy entry into management through an intense three-year course in retail and commercial banking.

The programme was open to all Belongers holding an accredited first degree. Following a series of intense tests and rigorous interviews, Jamie was appointed the successful candidate.

Jamie said: “The last 12 months at Cayman National Bank have been great. I have attained a wealth of knowledge in the various areas of retail and commercial banking.

“Although my training was challenging, the experience was

Jamie Wilson said he was excited to be continuing his training in the TCI.

definitely fun for me.

“I look forward to the next 12 months where I will be focusing on all areas associated with credit. I am very excited to be home to continue my training and contribute to a new

institution in our Islands.”

Kellie-Ann Evans-Hall, vice president of human resources, said: “Jamie’s return from Cayman National is an important benchmark for this programme, the first of its kind in the TCI. “As our first graduate trainee, we are hopeful that his banking career will be an illustrious one and will set the pace for those who will follow in his footsteps.”

Jamie went to Cayman in February 2010 to begin the first year of his training with Cayman National Bank.

He obtained experience in customer service, credit card services and compliance, among others.

He will spend the next 12 months in the TCI with International Banking Group’s credit department, training in all areas of credit.

Jamie will then return to Cayman for the final year of the graduate leadership programme during which he will specialise in an area of banking where he will adopt a management role.

International Banking Group currently employs 30 persons, 25 of which are Belongers.

including Colin Roberts, director for the overseas territories.

They also met with constitution reform advisor Kate Sullivan ahead of the next stage of public consultation.

Mr Parnell said the party was calling for the controversial issue over jury trials to be included in the new constitution, by way of a “presumptive right” to trial by one’s peers, except in very rare circumstances.

And that the Governor’s role is kept firmly outside Cabinet.

“We need a very firm line in the sand where the Governor’s power begins and ends. Anything in between is not workable and leads to confusion, chaos and ambiguity.”

He added that there should also be a UK Minister assigned with direct responsibility for affairs concerning the Caribbean region and its residents living abroad.

& CrimeCourt

Continued

Mark Thompson set for Supreme Court appearance THE MAN who allegedly knifed Jamaican national Keisha Parnell to death in her brother’s Glass Shack apartment will appear in Grand Turk Supreme Court next week.

Mark Thompson’s attorney Courtenay Barnett is set to make submissions to the court stating that his client is and was insane at the time of the alleged murder.

It was said that in the early hours of the morning of September 10 2008, Thompson repeatedly stabbed the young mother-of-two in front of her then 11-year-old daughter.

Thompson, who hails from the

Mark Thompson

parish of St Elizabeth in Jamaica, was remanded and has been in prison since then.

February 19 - 25, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

& CrimeCourt

9

WITH Samantha Dash–RIGBY

Trinidadian woman faces trial for aiding and abetting car scam TRINIDADIAN born Angela Ramcharitar faced trial before a judge and jury in the Supreme Court this week and may take the stand to give evidence in her defence.

Mrs Ramcharitar stands accused of assisting her husband Ricardo Ramcharitar to scam a number of persons out of thousands of dollars under the pretence that he was purchasing vehicles in Miami.

At that time however, Mr Ramcharitar, who went by several names such as ‘Mark Lewis’ and ‘Ricky’, was in Her Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk.

Llewellyn Taylor, Deputy Superintendent of Prisons, in charge of the prison records, testified that from September 18 2006 to November 3 2008 Ricardo Ramcharitar was at the prison on remand.

Velma Cox, store manager of her family-owned business Caicos Seafoods and Seaview Marketing in South Caicos, said that one day she received a call from a man who identified himself as Mark.

He had called her brother Norman Cox on February 25 saying that he could get a vehicle for him.

Mr Cox said that he was not interested and gave Mark her number.

During her first conversation with Mark, he told her that he worked at Provo Rent-a-Car and that he usually purchased vehicles for people at very low costs.

She was sceptical because she did not know him and told him so but he insisted that he used to visit South Caicos with a former PNP Minister and that he knew her.

“He sounded very sincere on the

phone and bit by bit he gained my confidence,” Ms Cox said.

Ms Cox told the four men, three women jury panel that at the time she needed a vehicle.

Mark assured her that he could get the type of vehicle she wanted, a Toyota Tacoma double cab for $5,500.

She thought it was a good price and finally made up her mind when Mark said that he was going to Miami and could buy the vehicle for her.

A couple of days later, he called her saying that he was at the auction in Miami and had the vehicle she needed.

He instructed her to send the money through Western Union in the name of Danielle Lightbourne so he could hold the truck for her.

He gave her Lightbourne’s phone number so she called and spoke to the woman.

Lightbourne confirmed that she was the woman who was supposed to collect the money for Mark.

She said that someone else used to do it and that she was filling in.

In March 2007, Ms Cox wired $2,500 via Western Union to Lightbourne.

Within days, she wired another $3,000 to the same woman.

Lightbourne confirmed she received both payments and everything was going OK. Within that time she had convinced her brother to send money to Mark to buy a truck also since if they bought their vehicles together it would work out cheaper.

Mr Cox wrote a cheque in the name of Danielle Lightbourne.

A couple days later, Ms Cox tried

to contact Mark but couldn’t reach him on the number he had used to call her.

Thinking his phone had a problem she decided to give it a little more time.

But when she tried again with the same results and when she could not reach Lightbourne on the phone either, she eventually reported the matter to the police.

During cross examination from defence attorney Courtenay Barnett, Ms Cox said that she was aware that Mark was in prison at the time.

She admitted that she never had any dealings with Mrs Ramcharitar nor had she ever seen her.

Mr Cox testified that in February 2007 he spoke to Mark about buying a truck for him.

He said that Mark called him one Sunday and told him that he knew him from Provo.

They had several telephone conversations even though Mr Cox insisted that he did not know Mark.

Eventually, Mark said he had an F150 truck but Mr Cox wanted a Silverado.

They conversed off and on and at one stage, Ricky asked Mr Cox to put credit on his phone for him.

Not once did he suspect that he was talking to someone who was behind bars.

One day, Mark told the businessman that he was in Miami at an auction and he found the exact truck he was looking for.

Mr Cox him to buy it and he would pay when the truck arrived in South Caicos. Mark agreed.

A couple of days later, Mark called and said that the truck was in Provo

Seven inmates apply for parole from HMP THE PAROLE Board recently issued a strong statement to members of the public concerning persons who approach individual members of the Board in their private capacity for their own personal gain.

“The Parole Board is a body set up by law,” the statement reminded all.

“Its role is to review all applications for release on parole by eligible inmates at HM Prison and advise the Governor accordingly.”

And, although the law allows the Parole Board to regulate its proceedings for the most part, members of the Board can only perform such functions when they meet officially.

However, persons have been writing to or approaching individual members when the other Board members are not there.

Some use that opportunity to lodge grievances, lobby on behalf of specific inmates, curse and abuse members or even try to influence them.

If anyone wishes to communicate with the Board, for any reason, they are to put their issues in writing and address it to the Parole Board, Grand Turk.

Denise Saunders, Permanent Secretary for Home Affairs and Public Safety, said that the Parole Board held its first meeting for 2011 on February 3.

It was held in the conference room

at the Ministry in Hibiscus Square in Grand Turk.

As part of its business, members of the Board journeyed to the prison where they interviewed all the applicants for parole.

The members then returned to the Ministry where they deliberated on seven applications for parole; three of which were new applications.

She did not release the names of the applicants.

As is customary, the Board gave all the applications its fullest consideration and made the necessary recommendations that will be forwarded to the Governor for his consideration and action.

Only one member of the board was absent.

and that he needed money to clear it.

He asked that Mr Cox write a cheque in Lightbourne’s name.

At his sister’s insistence, he wrote a cheque for $6,500 on March 17 2007 and sent it to Provo on a plane.

To date, the siblings have not received their vehicles nor their money back.

Like his sister, Mr Cox admitted that he never had any dealings with the defendant. He never spoke to her or called her and she never called him.

Next on the stand was Kenneth Handfield.

He told the jury that he was selfemployed and used a truck to do deliveries.

He said that he knew Ricky because he used to fix his sister’s vehicle.

In December 2006 Ricky called Handfield saying that he was in Miami at an auction and there was a truck there and he could sell it to him for $14,000.

Handfield was not interested in it but wanted a dump truck instead.

Ricky said there was a white dump truck right across from where he was and that he would go across and look at it, check out the price and call him back.

Within two hours, Ricky called back and said that it was a 2004 Magnum truck and that the cost was $23,000.

When Handfield expressed an interest in the truck, Ricky asked if he could get the money the same day.

“I told him it would be hard to get the money the same day since I did not have all my cash in one bank,” Handfield said.

He was able to get $7,400 from one bank and $2,000 and $700 from his two daughters.

Ricky instructed him to deposit the money into Mrs Ramcharitar’s

account at Scotiabank and gave him the account number.

After depositing the money, he called Ricky and informed him that he deposited $10,000 and as soon as he got the rest he would send it to him.

The next day he got another $3,000 and deposited into the defendant’s account as well.

Ricky had promised to deliver the truck to the dock in Miami and they would ship it on the next boat to Providenciales and he would return to the TCI the following week.

Like the others, to date he has never received the truck nor his money back.

During the discussions about the truck, Ricky said he used to work for Napa, Bayview and Johnston purchasing vehicles for them.

He claimed he had a backhoe for Johnston but they did not take it.

During cross examination, Handfield admitted that he dealt only with Ricky and he had never seen, called or spoken to Mrs Ramcharitar.

He never knew that all along Ricky was in jail.

He only became aware after police officers from the Financial Crime Unit contacted him.

Lewis Williams, of Grand Turk, also alleged that he was scammed by Mr Ramcharitar, although at the time he did not know his name.

He said that the man called him and offered him a 15-seater bus.

When he refused, the man said that he had a truck for $12,500.

Eventually, Williams reportedly lost $8,500 but never received any truck.

He admitted that although he had deposited $6,000 into Mrs Ramcharitar’s bank account, he never saw or spoke to her.

The case continues.

POLICE REMINDERS WITH CALVIN CHASE DETECTIVE POLICE SERGEANT THE SPEED limit when driving downtown is 20mph. If you are caught driving above this limit you will be fined $150 for every exceeded 10 miles or any part thereof.

Motorists are also reminded to always be alert and yield to persons

using the pedestrian crossing.

Of course, this does not give pedestrians the right to suddenly step onto a crossing and proceed across the road.

Remember, look left, look right, look left again and if the road is clear then briskly cross the road.

10

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 19 - 25, 2011

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

Letter of the week

Safe sex is not negotiable Dear Editor, There is an issue I can’t get over. I watched the show Focus on WIV when it was dealing with the topic of STDs and HIV/AIDS within our community.

I was pleased that they chose to focus on the women when it comes to this topic. Women have a huge power and we don’t even know it; if you don’t sleep with a man then who is he going to sleep with? However, there were some points where I was in total disbelief and disagreement with was being said.

The idea was presented that condom use is not popular within the TCI community or the Caribbean community for that matter. I cannot recollect the exact term used by the host and her guests but it was something along the lines of ‘it would be wrong of us to ask our partner to use a condom’ in the sense that since it is our culture to do

without we would be asking so much of our partner, it would be against our culture and practice to ask our partner to use a condom. It would be seen as insulting.

I strongly disagree. Practices are not always right. It was practice to throw excrement outside centuries ago, it was practice to not wash hands before an operation or sterilise instruments before and after operating, but these practices were wrong. It is practice within our community to not use condoms but that practice is wrong.

Within the Caribbean, women are usually the strong force of a relationship. I like to believe that women have the power to be movers and shakers. We can let a man think he is in charge but a strong woman knows how to quietly pull the strings.

I will not enter a relationship unless I can use condoms. I don’t think it’s wrong to present this to my

partner. I couldn’t care less if it goes against culture because, at the end of the day, I know culture will not help me if I get an STD, HIV or AIDS. I don’t think I need to negotiate the use of condoms. Instead of encouraging our women to be passive in their womanhood, the host and guests should have encouraged women to take a bold step and look the issue in the eye.

There is nothing wrong with looking a partner in the eye and saying I use condoms and that is what I require in my sex life. For the woman who does not like the female condom or is more comfortable with the male condom, I think it is better to encourage her to be proactive and straightforward with her choices instead of tiptoeing around her man and asking in a submissive way if it’s OK that we use condoms.

With all the different cultures and backgrounds we have in such a small

community, a woman, regardless of where she is from and her beliefs, may feel forced to keep up or conform to her partners beliefs.

A lot of people, men and women, living here do not feel it is a problem to have more than one partner and to have unprotected sex with various partners. However, if a woman can feel secure in who she is, she will not only demand monogamy but she will also demand higher standards in her partner. She should demand higher standards within herself.

It is only then a woman can be free from the perceptions, the practices and the unbalanced situations that life is presenting her.

Or if she is comfortable with having multiple partners she will practice safety by demanding condom use and not feel timid about demanding it.

We need to start educating ourselves at a younger age, don’t you think? Too

The devil is in the details Dear Editor, While I, like many other patriotic TC Islanders, applaud the news of DFID’s willingness to guarantee a loan to the TCI and concurrently digest the announcements by the PDM of their apparent diplomatic contributions to this development, I pause to say, let us constrain our jubilation and announcements of credits, for as of now we are unaware of the terms and conditions of any of the loan proposals.

There are unresolved issues in this announced package which do not bode well in our favour and we must remain vigilant to address them. I encourage those among us who have access and opportunity for good influence to act in our overall best interest.

As I understand, DFID has received proposals from commercial banks, for the advancement of credit facilities to TCIG. DFID has in principle agreed to guarantee any such loans which may originate from these proposals.

Such loans will be for a period of up to five years. DFID will repay itself for recent advances made to TCIG to the tune of some 29.9

million pounds Sterling from the new loans. The final details of the proposed loans are not yet disclosed.

Folks, the devil is in the details!

We must be concerned about the terms and conditions of the proposed loan packages. We must be as much concerned about our capacity to repay the debt as we are in our delight in the announcement of the creation of the debt.

The loan seems likely to be for a maximum of five years. What new streams of income will we have at our disposal to service this new debt? If we are currently running an expenditure deficit of $60m per year how do we propose to repay $260m plus interest over a period of five years or less?

This $260m amortised over five years in equal monthly installments at four per cent interest rates results in $4,788,296 per month or $57,459,549 per year; amortised at five per cent monthly payments are $4,906,521 or $58,878,249 per year; amortised at six per cent monthly payments are $5,026,528 or $60,318,341 per year.

Is our current combined debt servicing cost higher than the proposed repayments? Are we

LETTERS SHOULD BE KEPT TO A MAXIMUM OF 450 WORDS

inviting short-term solutions to a long term problem? In my estimation, five years is too short a repayment period as it will not solve the financial challenges faced in TCI. Compounding this concern is the unavailability of information on the interest rate and other conditions.

Total interest payments over the life of the loan under the scenarios above are $27,297,744 for a four per cent loan; $34,391,245 for a five per cent loan and $41,591,704 for a six per cent loan.

Hence repaying $260m will cost us between $287.3m and $301.6m, under the scenarios above. Can we afford this type of debt burden?

Our culpable local leaders will have their day in court, but what will become of the British overseers who were responsible for good governance?

The Brits are receiving a free pass in this corrective process and we are being made to pay twice; once with the loss of our assets and now with a debt burden for restructuring.

In making good to the people of the TCI for its failures in oversight and maintenance of good governance the British through its FCO and DFID

should at minimum have offered a grant package free of any interest cost and or repayment obligations.

Let us be undoubtedly aware that DFID’s loan guarantee is not a grantin-aid package. It is not a gift. It is debt. It is not money that is dedicated to income generating projects which can service their own debt once up and running.

The loan for the most part will be used to cover obligations incurred in the process of mismanagement, fraud, waste and abuse. The loan will have to be repaid! The loan will have to be repaid by us, the everyday working people.

Equally important is the issue of the preconditions and the associated terms and conditions of any loan package. Is this the British Trojan Horse for the imposition of a pernicious and economically crippling tax regime in the TCI? Let us all recall that under this interim administration we are now enduring the deferral of free and fair elections until we balance our national budget. How does this administration plan to balance the national budget within its three-year timetable and repay the proposed

often I have asked, why aren’t we educating our children from the time they are in high school? Especially when this is the age many are starting to experiment sexually.

If we can start changing our mentality about these things we can start making strides beyond our imagination.

I can’t understand how we can empower women if we’re telling them to be little kittens. If our men are expecting us to be lionesses in the bedroom let’s start by being a lioness about our sexuality and our sexual life.

Never negotiate with a partner into doing something that should be standard for your safety.

Screw culture when it comes to sexual life because if you’re drowning in a pool of sickness, culture is not going to rescue you.

Charrish Ferguson

loans?

Will the acceptance of any of the loan packages have as a precondition the introduction of property taxes, or any of the other taxing ideas floated in the recent past? If any of the preconditions includes the imposition of new or increased taxes, then this is an offer that we should refuse.

Additionally, does the interest rate and repayment period and periodic repayment amounts compare favourably with the existing debt burden. If the interest rate is not lower than current rates then why would we accept the terms of the new package?

Further, what other factors have entered into the decision making matrix to determine that the new funds should be used to pay off old debts? Can’t some of the old debts be advantageously restructured with the current creditors?

Hence it goes without saying that the details of the proposals must be known before further decisions are made or before jubilation is exerted on this announcement, particularly given the known background of the TCIG finance and executive leadership team, which is the same team which has saddled us with the hospitals financing debt and NHIP scheme.

Alpha Gibbs

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.

February 19 - 25, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Letters

continued

Forum mischief making Dear Editor, Under the chairmanship of Lillian Misick, the consultative forum revealed to the public a true and more accurate depiction of their role under the interim administration, unlike what the former chairman showed.

The new leadership showed objectivity with reasoned and thought provoking arguments, arguments that lived up to the people’s expectations.

But it seems that the forum is now losing its way and the chairman is allowing a few members to become a runaway jury.

There are some members of the forum who seem hellbent on creating mischief and are actively undermining the chairman’s ability to again connect with the people.

Perhaps they feel threatened by her capabilities and the fact that she was chosen over them to lead. But sad to say, these renegades are seeking to hijack her positive agenda.

There seems to be a need among some members to form or be a part of every group outside of the forum, albeit they all seem to fail to garner support.

There seems to be a direct attempt to undermine the functions of the forum. I was shocked while I watched the television the other night to hear

a member of the forum criticising another member and in a foolish and colloquial way, very immature and unprofessional I daresay.

What about confidentiality?

Surely members do not expect their private emails to be shared with the entire country?

How long is the chairman to accept this kind of unprofessional and counter-productive behaviour? It makes the entire group look like they are being hijacked by a few bullies who are hellbent on humiliating and, as they say, putting others in their place.

Some are very clever in undermining others by their actions and are using their position to fool the public into believing that they are the only ones who have the best interest of the people at large.

People do not be fooled! I call on the chairman to take stock of what is happening in her house before she loses all credibility among the public.

Mrs Chairman, you were on the right track and you cannot allow this sort of behaviour to derail your efforts.

I am sure there is some sort of code of conduct to govern members’ behaviour.

J Williams

Butch’s Belongership ‘benefits’ Dear Editor, In response to an article I recently read in the Jamaica Observer, the owner of Sandals stated that he never activated his Belonger status in the TCI. It is not something to activate; you are in receipt of the certificates and therefore have all the privileges that we born Islanders have. But then you already had all the privileges and then some.

You were given the privilege to bring in foreign employees at the expense of the local workforce.

You must say thanks for your Belongership because it has allowed you to contribute to the betterment of your birth country by being a part of the diaspora that send its money back home to improve their home country while sucking from the TCI. You have managed to increase the TCI population with your workers and their children.

Your Prime Minister, on a visit here, publicly thanked your workforce for their contribution to the Jamaican economy.

How many Islanders have you sent to your resorts in Jamaica

11

to work, especially in these hard times?

I recently stayed at your resort in the Bahamas and I was pleased to see not one Jamaican worker serving me during my time, but then again the Bahamians would not have sold out their people as we did here in the TCI. You managed to put your own people in the positions of power. And you were allowed to bring in your own boats and people to work those boats, pushing out local water sports operators.

Now do you see how you have activated your status? You should aim to work with your adopted country, not grab everything and take it back to your birth country. Your loyalty ought now be to both countries.

Give the workers of this country an opportunity, take a page from Sandals Bahamas.

For many years I have heard it said, Beaches is untouchable and the people still suffer. Maybe it is time for the UK-led Government to do something.

Phil C. Capron

Let not mercy and truth forsake thee Dear Editor, As I read your paper February 1218, I’m reminded of these words and would like to salute John Wildish for standing up for one of them.

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life and he that winneth souls is wise. (Proverbs.11:30).

Let not mercy and truth forsake thee; bind them about thy neck, write them upon the table of thine heart.

So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. (Proverbs.3:3-4).

Pleading for justice and mercy are the works of a true Christian and in the absence of these in our beautiful country for a while back now you would think that these would be the cry of the day.

However it’s not.

Also one would think that the many preachers that are among us would be leading the charge but they are not.

This leads me to share these scripture verses of how one can become a Christian and how going to school, church or even sharing the

word of God to people makes you not a Christian nor able to save or give you eternal life.

The scripture said; For by grace are ye saved through faith and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. (Ephesians.2:8-9).

Who or what is this gift? It was and is Jesus. For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his son into the world to condemn the world but that the world through him might be saved.

He that believeth on him is not condemned but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God .(John.3:16-18). It’s that simple.

What works should true Christians/ sons of God be engaging in, in this

evil world? And he said unto them, ‘go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptised shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

‘And these signs shall follow those who believe. In my name shall they cast out demons, they shall speak with new tongues, they shall take up serpents and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them. They shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover.’

(Mark.16:15-18).

The devil and his angels will always bring up our past and try to make us never forget our past mistakes to discourage us from trusting God and believing that we can do all things through Christ who strengthen us but be not deceived by his tricks.

Check the works of those who are calling themselves Christians. Jesus said, wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. (Matthew.7:20).

Jonathan N Gardiner

COMMENTARY

Lions and foxes WHEN passing Buckingham Palace in London recently those massive lion statues reminded me of the historical significance of ‘The Empire’.

Cook, Nelson, Montgomery, Churchill and Thatcher flashed through my mind - so many moments of glory growing out of challenges.

The Empire, its connected Commonwealth and overseas territories are now facing the challenges of the modern world.

America long ago exerted its independence and spun away. The former colonies have moved towards independence too - Canada, Australia, India and several Eastern Caribbean nations.

Independent, yes, but they stay connected through the Commonwealth.

The success of each independent nation has been proportional to its own resources.

So many of our Eastern Caribbean island neighbours are in the TCI on work permits, which is indicative of the success of their independence.

Other former colonies, now called overseas territories, have a unique status.

TCI constitutions divide

By David Tapfer authority and responsibility between Britain and ourselves. Remember with authority comes responsibility.

Britain reserved power and assigned much to the TCI. In the last eight years both abdicated their responsibilities.

Politicians have played a part in managing things on both sides of the pond - British politicians and TCI politicians.

Britain’s Labour Government chose to keep their hands off the TCI. Were they testing us for independence? I think not.

A few years ago the British Foreign Office came to know a fox destined to become our first Premier.

He was known in Britain as a ‘skilful negotiator’. Groundwork was being laid for the debacle which was to come.

The fox blinded former FCO officials and perhaps two Governors as well.

Thatcher’s Sir John Stanley opened British and some TCI eyes. We are waking up to reality.

The territory has been stripped from within.

The foxes squandered and took the proceeds while selling the machinery. A lion called SIPT is riding down on the family of foxes.

When confronted, foxes snarl but always run to hide in their den.

Now we are left with only borrowed money. The promise of 2003 is torn asunder. It’s not foxes we have to deal with now, it’s the wolves at our door.

Income wise we are back to where we were eight long years ago, plus debts due to the last 25 years.

Will our TCI people have the patience to adjust, rebuild and slowly expand our economy while guarding against this ever happening again?

If not, will our people find work in the Bahamas as before? These considerations are what the skilful negotiator, the fox, has brought us to.

If patience and hard work is applied, we can realise the potential for our position in the world and the promise of our ‘beautiful by nature’ resources.

12

Letters

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

continued

TCI: The unfinished revolution Dear Editor, Finally, this brings us to Hon Michael Eugene Misick: the face of the new generation of politicians in the TCI and the country’s first Premier.

Misick was a leader who could relate to the youth of the country better than anyone since JAGS; with

a bravado that had the majority of the country willing to follow wherever he would lead.

All of the tools and skills needed to push the TCI to its full potential were possessed by Misick - had he chosen to use them appropriately!

The most active five-year period

Enjoying human dignity Dear Editor, As the president of CAPAA (Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Association), I take the task of bringing awareness to child abuse issues very seriously.

As an association CAPAA’s mission is to advocate for the protection of the rights and safety of children, while empowering them and the community with the knowledge to identify and prevent all types of abuse of children, regardless of their race, gender, colour, nationality, status, religion or parent political preference.

In order for CAPAA to fulfil this mandate, we seek every opportunity to educate ourselves. Recently, we participated in the human rights workshop sponsored by the UK Department for International Development (DFID), under the auspices of the Human Rights Commission under the theme ‘Building Human Rights Capacity in Overseas Territories’.

While the rights of the child were not addressed directly, it was understood that all human rights are guaranteed to the child, given the fact that he/she is a human being.

The most poignant point from the workshop was the chasm between what is practiced in policies and procedures, in various agencies and departments of the society and what is actually the law, with respect to our human rights.

Throughout the workshop it was emphasised that part one of the constitution of the Turks and Caicos Islands, which contains the ‘Fundamental Rights and Freedoms of the Individual’, is still in full force with the single exception of article 6 (2) (g) – which speaks to the right to trial by jury, which has been suspended.

Of equal weight coming out of the workshop was the fact that there is a hierarchical structure of laws as it relates to our human rights.

The apex of this structure reflects the international instruments and conventions/covenants that the Turks and Caicos is signatory to by virtue of being a British overseas territory.

Namely the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).

This level represents, to a large

February 19 - 25, 2011

degree, the ideal that all laws, policies and procedures should strive to achieve.

Below, this is the Orders in Council or laws of the UK. This means that laws in the UK ought to reflect the sentiment as prescribed in these international instruments that they have signed on to.

As a matter of course the laws in the Turks and Caicos are subsumed to the Orders in Council or UK laws, which makes it responsible to translate these rights, in law, to the individuals within that country.

In that, the fundamental rights and freedoms of the individual as outlined in the laws of the Turks and Caicos, largely mirror these Orders in Council or laws of the UK. At the base of this structure are the policies and procedures and rules and regulations that guide the day to day operations of the country.

The makers of these policies and rules have an obligation to the populace to ensure that these policies and procedures emulate the ideals of the constitution and guarantee that the basic rights of the citizenry and those who come within these bounds, are not infringed upon.

It is therefore prudent that when persons sit down as policymakers they have an appreciation for the brevity of the task that is before them, so that when they are done these policies and procedures can stand on their own merits; withstand the acid test of time and changes in governmental structures.

This workshop, in its entirety was truly beneficial to all the participants, especially the members of CAPAA, as it not only provided us with information but it emphasised the important role that Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), like us, play in bringing information to the community.

We have rights but we also have the responsibility to be informed by seeking information on what are our human rights.

However, this is not the limit of our responsibility, it extends to us ensuring that each person enjoys the dignity due to him/her by virtue of being human, whether child or adult.

Winsome HeronFearon, President of CAPAA

of economic activities would occur under his watch, but his administration would fall under the cloud of alleged corruption and mismanagement; which resulted in this country’s second commission of inquiry in 20 years, and another suspension of the constitution.

This highly regarded and revised constitution had only come into force in 2006.

Of the four cases outlined above (and in part one), three administrations ended by something other than the ballot box.

So it is pretty clear that sustainability and continuity of most governments in the TCI since 1976 has been hard to achieve.

That being said, I will use an apt analogy to compare today’s TCI with that of our sister British overseas territory, Anguilla which, as it so happens, is going through a similar situation like the TCI. Back in the 60s Anguilla was in association with St Kitts and Nevis, and was administered through St Kitts.

Given the unfair treatment of Anguilla by St Kitts, the people of Anguilla cried out to the UK for many years for a direct relationship with Britain, but their cries fell on deaf ears!

In 1967, Mr James Ronald Webster declared himself President and seceded from the St Kitts association and the UK. Rather than negotiate with the people of Anguilla who only months earlier declared their love for Britain, the UK organised Operation Sheepskin to ‘Take Back’ Anguilla.

The invasion would be known later on as the ‘Bay of Piglets’ - as not a single bullet would be fired.

It would take more than 14 years or so before Anguilla would be granted BOT status.

The point being made here is that the UK misinterpreted the action of secession as a slap in the face, when in truth Anguilla no longer wanted to be administered by St Kitts, which is a similar case as is in the TCI today.

The call for the UK to look into

alleged acts of corruption was never made so as to give rise for the UK to return the TCI to direct rule, but to work with those not found to be connected to the alleged corruption and clean up the mess made under the UK’s watch altogether.

Once again, the UK has over reached or misunderstood the cries of the people of one of its territories.

How much longer will the people of the TCI go without questions being answered?

How long will we go on without knowing the blueprint for our future?

Whatever the true destiny of the TCI turns out to be, whether a relationship with the UK in line with that of Bermuda or outright independence like Barbados or Trinidad and Tobago, the process of getting to that point must be a shared one, not one of parent and child but as respected colleagues with a shared vision, much like that which was envisioned in the document ‘Progress Through Partnership’.

Otherwise, who knows when the revolution will continue!

Ryan Garland

Function of the judiciary Dear Editor, Many students have found this area of British constitutional law to be a very difficult process.

However credit should be given to those who were determined to analyse the consequences until they were able to understand the process.

One of those persons is Edison Greenslade who was a student of the ‘Initial Training Course’ at the police college in Nassau, during the tenure of duty as the chief instructor. He is now the Commissioner of Police of the Bahamas.

Although attempts have been made to explain the powers as they relate to the legislature and the executive, and since the judiciary is an independent body in the written constitution of British overseas territories, it must be profitable to explain the connection with the British Government of the UK since there are overlaps in the legislature, executive and judiciary.

It should be noted that although there is an overlap between the legislature and the executive in the constitution of British overseas territories, the role of the Lord Chancellor of British Government had been divided to emphasise the separation of power by the judiciary in the system of these countries which has great constitutional effect.

The Lord Chancellor is the head of the judiciary which included the judicial committee of the Privy

Council and the legal advisor to the British Government.

However this role has been separated in the constitution of countries of the British overseas territories to include the role of Attorney General and Chief Justice.

The Attorney General is the legal advisor to the Governor/Governor General and the government, and the administration of criminal matters.

Whereas the Chief Justice is responsible for the administration of the British legal system, activities of the judicial committee of the Privy Council and the European Commission.

The judiciary of the TCI and other territories is connected with the system of the UK by the appointments of the Lord Chancellor and other judges whose tenure of duty shall be the decision of the prerogative power.

The Lord Chancellor sits in the House of Lords as head of the judiciary to which the judicial committee of the Privy Council is attached.

It should now be profitable to explain the connection with the TCI and other territories.

Judicial committee of the Privy Council – This area is available for appeals on ‘points of law’ or facts or with leave of the court on matters of great interest to the territories.

The administration of the system may be different depending on the status of the country.

(Reference is being made to

Hoskstra and other v HM Advocate of the High Court of Scotland, and Crane v Reese of the Court of Appeal of Trinidad and Tobago) Court of Appeal – The Court of Appeal has its own constitution and the selection of judges to serve for a particular session is made in accordance with that document.

The Supreme Court – There shall be a Supreme Court of the TCI which shall have such jurisdiction and powers as may be conferred upon it by the constitution of the TCI and any other law. There is also a Supreme Court Act 1980.

The jury system – Since this is a controversial area, attempts will be made to discuss the topic in a different publication.

It should now be understood that the connection to British Government is by the Royal Prerogative which is the ultimate power of the Queenin-Council, who also authorises the constitution of British overseas territories, the administration of the legal system and the function of the judicial committee of the Privy Council.

It is also important to note that independent countries are being governed by an order of independence which is significant of growth and maturity.

Consideration must also be given to the activities of the European Union to which the African Caribbean and Pacific countries are affiliated.

Sherman Rigby

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Above pictures by Chrystel Loyer

Above pictures by Islandcom

Model boat race a sail away success

By Rebecca Bird BRIGHT skies, calm seas, a solid breeze, live music and home cooking all made for a spectacular day out at the Valentine’s Day Cup in Middle Caicos this weekend.

Hundreds of people attended Saturday’s beach front party and more than 40 teams took part in the model boat races.

The Middle Caicos Sailing Association (MCSA) has hosted the annual event for the past 11 years

Results Class A - Over 40ins (ten entries) First place: Islandcom captained by Edward Shearer Second place: The Ida Flame captained by T-Boy Robinson Third place: Daniel’s Café captained by Albert Robinson Class B – 30ins to 40ins (14 entries) First place: The BB captained by Brodie Forbes (chair of the MCSA) Second place: Red Arrow I captained by Ashton Harvey Third place: Forbes Flyer captained by Buzz Lawson Class C - Under 30ins (seven entries) First place: Sea Star captained by Tim O’Hanlon and Nyrwan Second place: Little Banana captained by Bradley and Tyreece Third place: Shawn OBB captained by Leshawn Forbes and William Island Com Ladies Cup - Class B boats (nine entries) First place: TPR captained by Ella Foley Second place: Islandcom captained by Marilyn Cooper/Delphine Hartshorn Third place: MSOS Victory captained by Lucy Bullard

in order to promote and encourage the traditional craft of hand carving model sailboats.

And every year it has proved more and more popular with tourists and locals alike.

Dozens of local companies sponsored boats at the event this Saturday and raced them against each other in the warm turquoise waters of Bambarra beach.

The boats, which ranged from 13ins to 54ins, were all separated into different classes where they competed against boats their own size.

Spectators described it as a vast, colourful and very impressive display.

Trophies and cash prizes were given to the first, second and third place winners, and every boat captain sailing got given a free red cap.

And this year new sponsor Islandcom introduced the Ladies Cup and the Captain’s Raffle to encourage more people to take to the water and sail.

The Ladies Cup was a welcome addition to this year’s event. Nine boats were entered but only three

took home trophies.

Ella Foley and her boat TRP took home first place, Islandcom’s own Marilyn Cooper and Delphine Hartshorn took second and Lucy Bullard and MSOS Victory took home third.

The company provided banners, signs and support at the event as well as trophies and cash prizes for the new category.

All participating captains received gift bags provided by Islandcom and were entered into the Captain’s Raffle.

Young Captain Jessica Foley was the lucky captain drawn to win $500 worth of Islandcom products and services.

Islandcom marketing associate Chandra Craigg said: “We take pride participating in local cultural events and will continue to support these types of events in the future.”

Organisers also had support from TCI Ferry who put on special school buses to meet the ferries and PPC/Fortis who contributed funds for full sponsorship of the cash prizes for all the class A, B, and C races.

First place received a trophy and $75, second place received a trophy and $50, and third place received a trophy and $25.

PPC/Fortis also sponsored the rousing live music which featured Middle Caicos duo Lovey Forbes and Lucky Forbes.

The Church of God of Prophecy has been cooking all the food for the day since 2004.

They have kept up with the growth of the festival and made sure not to leave anyone hungry.

All the funds they raised will go toward the church’s children and youth programmes.

A spokesperson for the event said: “The Valentine’s Day Cup is a fine example of modern promotion, small business and community resources working together and bringing to life a traditional sport – and it’s a lot of fun too!

“It is a cultural heritage that has now been firmly ensconced on the modern calendar thanks to the efforts of the Middle Caicos Co-op, the Middle Caicos Sailing Association and lots of devoted friends and family – thank you all.”

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Reef Fund to rejuvenate Coral Gardens STUNNING natural reef at Coral Gardens will become even more accessible for divers and snorkellers thanks to a new marine protection organisation.

Founders of The Turks and Caicos Reef Fund (TCRF) have taken it upon themselves to refurbish and replace the snorkel trail markers at the Grace Bay beauty spot.

Don Stark, co-founder of the TCRF and the organisation’s chairman, explained that the group was founded in 2010 to support local education, research and conservation programmes.

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

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

So Don and his partner David Stone decided to set up a fund that visitors could donate to in order to

REPAIRS NEEDED: Missing snorkel trail marker at Coral Gardens. Photo by David M Stone/TC Reef Fund FUND FOUNDERS: Co-founders David Stone and Don Stark

enhance the marine environment of the TCI. The TCRF has already accepted grant applications from individuals, groups and organisations.

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

The snorkel trail is an attraction that is well known and heavily utilised by

visitors to the islands, but hurricanes, storms and algae growth has taken its toll over the past several years.

Along with the government’s Department of Environmental and Coastal Resources (DECR), the TCRF will replace the markers and reef ball support stands.

They will also regularly visit the site to perform cleaning and maintenance of the markers, reef ball stands and marker buoys for the benefit and enjoyment of all visitors.

In order to raise additional cash, the group are offering visitors a gift in exchange for their contribution.

For $5 they will receive a wristband and for $10 they will get a plastic dive tag that can be attached to their scuba gear, bag or suitcase to demonstrate their support for the TCRF. Over 85 per cent of all funds raised through voluntary contributions from divers and snorkellers visiting the Turks and Caicos Islands will go to the fund’s programmes.

Underwater videographer Don and nature photographer David both hope to involve all tourists whether they come here to fish, snorkel, dive, or just to enjoy the islands’ beautiful

beaches.

David, who is also deputy chairman of the TCRF, explained that the programme was modelled on the “very successful” Bonaire Marine Parks Fee programme.

“We intend to facilitate marine environmental research efforts, educational programmes, and conservation efforts with the funds we raise,” he added.

For more information on the projects funded by the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund and funding opportunities visit www.TCReef.tc or www.TCReef.org.

TCI student wins place at leadership conference AN AMBITIOUS young TC Islander was selected from scores of students at his American university to attend a state leadership conference.

David Durham, 23, from Providenciales, is studying civil engineering at the University of Central Florida (UCF).

He recently submitted an essay to his university in order to be considered for a place at the annual conference.

UCF cultural programmer Rocky Blesso said: “We had a very competitive pool of applicants and narrowed it down to the top 10 students. David was one of these 10.

“He wrote an outstanding essay on the value of leadership and how the conference would benefit him as a future leader and as a member of the UCF community.

“He specifically talked about being receptive to change and understanding new cultures.”

Along with writing a top essay David also had to have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 and involvement in an activity or organisation to qualify for the trip.

Luckily the bright student racked up a GPA of 3.2 and is a member of

the National Society of Engineers and the American Society of Civil Engineers.

The Florida International Leadership Conference is an annual event open to all international students throughout Florida.

David said: “This conference gave me an opportunity to interact with international students and learn about their country’s politics, culture and developments and I was also able to tell them about my country.

“It was a learning experience and I would encourage any student who is given an opportunity to attend a leadership conference, to please take advantage of the opportunity.”

The former British West Indies Collegiate student added: “It was great answering questions from those who first heard about my country and me being the first person they have met from there was truly an honour.”

The 5th annual conference took place at Camp Ocala 4-H Centre in Altoona, Florida, from February 4 to February 6.

It attracted more than 150 international students and US study

David Durham (kneeling on bottom right) and nine of his peers attended the 2011 Florida International Leadership Conference

abroad students from across the state of Florida.

Presentations focused on campus leadership, general leadership, cross-

cultural enrichment and cultural expressions.

February 19 - 25, 2011

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If music be the food of love, play on

By Rebecca Bird

Photos by Jeni Legere

LOVE was in the air this weekend as song, dance and food combined to create a heavenly evening under the stars.

Saturday’s ‘Hopelessly Romantic’ event at the Stargazer Villa showcased a host of island talent all while raising funds for the arts.

Culinary and creative skills were put to the test in front of hundreds of guests – and no one went home without a full belly and heart.

The fun event was organised by the Turks and Caicos Friends of the Arts Foundation (TCFAF).

TCFAF spokesperson Barbara Pankhurst said: “The evening proved to be utterly delightful for everyone and a successful fundraiser for the Friends of the Arts to continue in its mission of providing arts encouragement, entertainment and education for TCI.” Guests arrived at the luxury Providenciales villa from 7pm and were immediately handed a glass of champagne and a chocolate covered strawberry to set the tone of the evening.

It was not long before the entertainment began – more than a dozen local artists took turns in front of the microphone and warmed the hearts of the attendees with an array of love songs.

They were Gabriella Aquino, Candy Barrotti, David Been, Nikko Clarke, O’Brien Forbes, Julian Garland, Wendy Hayward, Marvin Henfield, Brusnite Jean Louis, Christma Jean Louis, Barbara Johnson, Janardo LaPorte, Alan Lenathen and the AJs, Cora Malcolm, Josie Smith, Addison Stoddard and Christina Zaccheo.

Marvin Henfield hosted the evening and the artists were accompanied on the piano by Wendy

Hayward.

Meanwhile guests were encouraged to sample a range of delicious dishes cooked up by local chefs.

Among the delights were barbecued chicken wings by Mango Reef chef Florent Sourmont, cannelloni and croquettes from Amanyara chef Fritz Zwahlen, homemade bread from Chef Amy Caffarel of Pine Cay’s Meridian Club and fish tacos and quesadillas from Somewhere on the Beach’s Luis Fabara.

There were also delicious desserts including rose water panna cotta with strawberries and champagne gelee and milk chocolate mousse with pecan, peppercorn and caramel from Amy Caffarel and chocolate cake from Caicos Bakery’s Eric Cuvillon.

All entries were judged for a culinary competition on innovation, artistry on the plate, taste, and relevance to the love theme.

First place went to Amy Caffarel from Pine Cay’s Meridian Club for her small seductive desserts.

While second place went to Tiki Hut’s Derrick Carter for his mille feuille shortbread with Chantilly crème and shaved chocolate.

Taking third place was Annick Vernay with the delicious vegetable skewers, followed very closely by Fritz Zwahlen’s small plates of cannelloni and croquettes.

Barbara said: “All in all, the food was delicious, and TCFAF was very grateful to all the participating chefs.

“The judges thought the culinary competition a terrific idea and loved their job.”

All attendees at the evening’s event were put on the membership list for the TCFAF and given membership cards.

TCFAF is run exclusively by volunteers who all donate their time and talent to keep art alive in the TCI.

DUET: Christina Zaccheo and Addison Stoddard wowed attendees with their pairing

SONGBIRD: Barbara Johnson lived up to her name

DANCING IN THE MOONLIGHT: Guests enjoyed a dance beneath the stars

TASTE TEST: The judges thought the culinary competition a “terrific idea” and loved their job

Drivers urged to use common sense at hospital

DRIVERS using Provo’s hospital are being warned about illegal parking.

Hospital bosses have promised to get tough with motorists who break the rules at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre.

And cars that flout the one-way and emergency vehicle-only zones are also being targeted in the crackdown by InterHealth Canada.

Chief of support services Jim Trainor said lives are being put at risk by what he calls “inconsiderate drivers”.

“On the whole the parking and road system at Cheshire Hall works very well,” he said.

“But unfortunately there are a small minority who spoil things. Initially drivers claimed that our road signs were too small but signage has now been enlarged to counter this.

“In terms of parking I would urge people to park properly between the guide lines and not take up two spaces, causing danger and inconvenience to others.

“Also, patients are reminded that the disabled bays at the front of the centre are for people who have driven themselves to hospital but have personal mobility problems. These are generally dialysis and physiotherapy patients and security officers will be checking

in future.”

He added: “Those who are transporting others to the centre are quite entitled to use the drop off area by the main doors but please can drivers not leave vehicles unattended and never park on the pedestrian crossings.”

Mr Trainor said that his biggest concern was cars using the emergency vehicles-only road, leading to the emergency department.

He explained: “There is a clear one way system around the site and people must keep to it. They must also watch their speed and use their common sense.

“Also please remember that the only

vehicles permitted to park at the Emergency Department are emergency vehicles and it is also imperative that motorists do not use the emergency vehicles-only route.

“This route is for exactly what it says it’s for and not if you are transporting something with a minor complaint. Using this route could put people’s lives at risk and so I’d urge everyone to be both sensible and patient.”

He added: “The rules and regulations are there for a reason. It’s not us being awkward.

It’s because it’s important that all patients, visitors and staff are safe and have easy access in and out of the centre, 24 hours a day.”

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Cool upgrade for community centre

By David Tapfer

POTENTIAL VISITORS: New York shoppers are given an insight into the Turks and Caicos Islands

TCI takes over Times Square AT TWO strategic and highly trafficked locations in Manhattan, New York, thousands of people are viewing a constant stream of video commercials about the TCI. A total of 54 30-second spots on the country are currently running on JumboTrons – New York’s trademark large-screen televisions.

Pamela Ewing, North American marketing manger for the TC Tourist Board, explained that the adverts which can be viewed at Times Square and Macy’s, near Madison Square Gardens, aim to expose potential visitors to the destination.

Turks and Caicos Island Tourist Board’s newest campaign is being run at the same time as new airlift begins from JFK, New York by JetBlue and Newark, New Jersey by Continental Airlines.

Islanders told beware of ‘phishing’ SPREADING THE WORD: Pamela Ewing, North American marketing manger for the TC Tourist Board

Romantic prize giveaway IT WAS hearts and roses all round this Valentine’s Day for three lucky Islandcom customers.

Laura Miller, Filipina Marcoso and Susanne Hodge all received romantic prizes - just for taking advantage of the company’s special promotions.

On Monday, February 14, post paid customers were able to add up to four shared lines to their existing post paid plan and each line would get the first three months free.

Prepaid customers received double the talk time for free when they signed up for a new account.

And prepaid customers also

MIDDLE Caicos Community Centre has been receiving favourable attention since it was damaged in September 2008 when Hurricane Ike assaulted the roof and ceiling.

The Conch Bar building, a designated hurricane shelter, was repaired in 2010 with a new roof with metal overlay. Roll down hurricane shutters were also installed. These repairs and upgrades were financed by the hurricane relief grant provided by Britain.

Now the community itself has stepped up to the plate and added an important improvement.

Underwritten and promoted

by Mike and Miki Witt, a central air conditioning system has been installed.

The unit was paid for by contributions of money and labour from local community

activists.

This new AC unit will make the centre more usable for public events. It will also prevent a lack of ventilation when the building is being employed as a shelter.

Forecasting the future, it appears the community’s next project will be obtaining a standby generator system to make the building self-sustaining.

The Witt family has been active in community affairs since arriving in Middle Caicos over 15 years ago. They have sponsored many community projects including the first boat dock and provided the ferry service before the causeway linked Middle Caicos to North Caicos and the outside world.

The Witts are the former owners of the Blue Horizon resort overlooking beautiful Mudjin Bay. Now retired, they reside in their home adjacent to the resort.

benefited from bonus top up the week leading up to Valentine’s Day. Every customer who took part was automatically entered to win prizes provided by Grace Bay Resorts, The Atabeyra and Parallel 23.

Susanne Hodge couldn’t believe it when she received the call on Valentine’s Day informing her that she was the winner of a romantic dinner for two at The Regent Palms’ Parallel 23.

Next to receive her call was second prize winner Filipina Marcoso who was thrilled to learn she had been picked to receive a private sunset

cruise for two on Sun Charters’ Atabeyra.

Finally, an overjoyed Laura Miller won the grand prize provided by Grace Bay Club and The Veranda.

Laura said: “I had just switched network providers to Islandcom as they have great prices, packages and the 3G network.

“I was so surprised and ecstatic to find out I won [first place] in the raffle. Thank you Islandcom!”

Laura and her guest will enjoy a romantic one night stay at the luxurious Grace Bay Club as well as a signature couple’s massage at The Veranda’s Sabai Spa.

PEOPLE are being warned to remain alert to emails requesting personal and bank account information.

The Bankers Association is reporting an upsurge in fraudulent emails being circulated. These emails purport to be from banking institutions but are sent with the intention of using the information to access funds illegitimately.

Islanders are being asked not to reply, not to click on any links provided and to delete the emails immediately.

The Association also recommends that recipients call the bank that is purported to have sent the email so that they may advise customers and the authorities.

Anton Faessler, the Association’s president, said: “Email scams and fraud exist and are becoming ever more sophisticated.

“Customers are advised not to reply to emails purporting to be from banking institutions requesting private information as these are likely to be scams.

“The best course of action is to delete the email immediately and advise your bank.

“If people who receive these types of requests have any possible doubt about their authenticity, please call your bank but, again, in any case never reply and never open any links.”

‘Phishing’ emails are fraudulent emails that request information either directly or by asking the recipient to click on a link and submit their banking information on an online banking log-in page.

Email scams can take many forms however, including persons pretending to be heirs to great wealth seeking financing to help release their inheritance.

Mr Faessler added: “We encourage persons to exercise caution and common sense. Never share your confidential banking information with anyone, such as the PIN number or online banking log-in information, and never agree to send funds to persons you don’t know.”

February 19 - 25, 2011

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this week

Friday, February 18 to Thursday, February 24 Friday, February 18  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 19

BELTING BALL: In 2010 ‘Diamonds are Forever’ was a sell out smash at high end Regent Palms resort

Mardi Gras ball back on this April THE MASQUERADES, parade and theatrics of a Mardi Gras carnival are coming to Providenciales this April in the form of a flamboyant charity ball.

The Le Reve Gala Ball was postponed last November because of logistical challenges, competing events and a suffering economy.

But now preparations are back underway for the fourth annual event which will transport guests to the drama, richness and grandeur that is Bourbon Street in New Orleans’ French Quarter.

Michelle Swann, president of the Le Reve committee, said: “This Mardi Gras formal cocktail attire affair promises to be an evening of pure enchantment and frivolity, thrown in with the usual elegance and excellence in service.

“The event will feature a street fair, a marching band, dancers, singers and a live auction to boot.

“The festivities will be second to none – food, music and culture – what could be better?

“You don’t have to travel to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, you can enjoy the experience right here in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

This year all proceeds will go to Crimestoppers TCI to boost their efforts in the community.

“Through this endeavour, it is the committee’s hope to promote good social camaraderie amongst those in attendance, thus uniting to raise funds for a worthy cause, Crimestoppers TCI,” Michelle said.

For four years the Le Reve committee has held exclusive gala balls to raise funds for local charitable causes.

In 2010 ‘Diamonds are Forever’ was a sell out smash at high end Regent Palms resort.

The event raised close to $12,000 from auction items which went straight to the TCI Kidney Foundation.

This year Crimestoppers TCI has been selected as beneficiary of the fundraising efforts.

The non-profit association which

was established in 1995 assists law enforcement agencies in deterring and eradicating crime.

It also helps to bring perpetrators to justice by the provision of a confidential and anonymous intelligence gathering service.

Michelle said: “The members of the Le Reve Gala Ball committee feel it is necessary to support this worthy organisation in the face of the ongoing challenges this country is experiencing today.

She added: “The continued aim of the committee through this event, is to continue its efforts to partner with the community in accordance with the ideals of their motto: ‘Realising one charitable dream at a time.’”

This year’s formal cocktail affair will take place at The Veranda on Grace Bay on Saturday, April 2.

For more information on sponsorship or tickets call Michelle Swann on 231-4429 or Edith Skippings on 231-1515 or visit www. lereveball.tc

Lime supports students STUDENTS have the chance to get a cash boost when they graduate thanks to a new promotion from Lime.

The telecoms company is offering $2,000 to pupils who complete their schooling this year.

And they can spend it on anything from plane tickets and parties to prom wear and gowns. Or even for their next level of education.

To win the cash customers can text “graduation” to IWIN (4946) up until May 31. Each text costs $1.

General manager Drexwell Seymour said: “Graduations could be costly especially if families are preparing for more than one child.

“Lime thought that this would provide a great opportunity for someone to have a chance to win some cash to defray the cost of getting the student ready for this year’s graduation cycle.”

Thanks to another Lime promotion one lucky phone customer received $1,000 this week.

Alonzo Malcolm captured the grand prize of the ‘Pay early raffle’ for paying his bill in full in January.

The campaign continues in February when there are two prizes of $1,000 for the top winner and $500 for second place.

Mr Seymour said: “Customers have the opportunity to be a part of a draw that would give back.

“A couple of lucky winners will receive a total of $1,500 this month for paying their bill on time.”

 The Salvation Army and O’Soleil Restaurant are holding an evening filled with chocolate delights this Saturday.

The Somerset’s Croquet lawn will be transformed into a ‘Chocolate Heaven’.

From 8pm come out and indulge yourself in all that is chocolate while raising money for a great cause.  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.  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.

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 22  This Tuesday the Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Association (CAPAA) is holding its annual general meeting.

It is set to take place at the Turks and Caicos Institute of Professional Studies (TCIPS), above the American Airlines office, Downtown, Providenciales at 6pm.  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 23  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 24

Sunday, February 20  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 21  Get rid of the Monday blues with an intense non-traditional aerobic

 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

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Lifestyle...

February 19 - 25, 2011

fitness Tip 

Crank it up MAXIMISE your workout by cranking up the treadmill incline.

It helps burn more calories than keeping the machine set to a zero grade.

After a 30-minute workout at a 10-minute-per-mile pace, you’ll burn 270 calories with no incline, 363 with a five per cent incline, 420 with a 10 per cent incline and 482 with a 15 per cent incline.

The steep slope helps tone your butt, thighs and calves – problem areas for many women.

It’ll also build strength and endurance so when you run outside on flatter surfaces, you’ll move faster and with more ease.

In addition, it challenges the cardiovascular system without requiring speed; ideal for people either not in the mood for speed workouts, or people who cannot ambulate swiftly due to orthopedic conditions.

Because an incline challenges the heart at a slower walking pace, this means less impact on knees and hips.

The slow nature is good for people either just getting back into exercise after injury, or for people new to exercise who don’t want to pull a muscle at a faster speed.

So, next time you hit the treadmill, add a little uphill action to your walking or running workout.

Jennifer Aniston is said to keep her fabulous form in shape by keeping the treadmill at a steep incline.

health Tip 

Cajun style baked sweet potato GREAT for picnics and barbecues, these sweet potatoes are seasoned with a homemade herb and spice mix.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika • 1 teaspoon brown sugar • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme • 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper • 2 large sweet potatoes • 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

• In a small bowl, stir together paprika, brown sugar, black pepper, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder and cayenne pepper.

• Slice the sweet potatoes in half lengthwise. Brush each half with olive oil. Rub the seasoning mix over the cut surface of each half. Place sweet potatoes on a baking sheet or in a shallow pan.

• Bake in preheated oven until tender, about one hour.

Potatoes – the sweet truth FOR more than one reason I feel pushed to visit the farm again so this week let’s talk about sweet potatoes.

During summertime and many weekends, we used to travel in the field with my grandmother, Evers Gibson, and grandfather, Cleavel Gibson.

In those days we did not really pay much attention to the values she instilled in us about ‘going in the field’, as we would call it back in the day.

Each of us would have our area in the field to weed before 12 noon while, during the day, she prepared the firewood to roast the potatoes or even boil the potatoes for lunch.

Of course there are many ways that potatoes can be prepared but she had her way and we loved it.

According to this researched information, the sweet potato is not as popular as in the past but it is still one of the most nutritious vegetables available.

Because of their nutritional value, sweet potatoes were once a staple of the American diet.

Over the years, they have become less prominent on the dinner table and typically are only eaten on holidays.

By Phillip Simmons

However the sweet potato is still the same nutritional powerhouse as it was hundreds of years ago.

Not only are sweet potatoes low in calories, low in glycemic load and have zero fat, they are rich in health boosting antioxidants, fibre and essential minerals.

Sweet potatoes contain more than twice the amount of beta-carotene than most fruits and vegetables. Two thirds of a cup provides 100 per cent of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin E, and one sweet potato offers 65 per cent of the RDA for vitamin C. The beta-carotene and vitamins C and E in sweet potatoes work as antioxidants to neutralise free radicals that damage cells. These antioxidants slow the aging process, boost immunity and reduce the risk of developing cataracts, heart disease, prostate cancer and breast cancer.

Sweet potatoes are one of the most nutritious vegetables around.

The sweet potato is also a rich source of phytonutrients which work to reduce inflammation, boost immunity, increase energy, reduce LDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Chlorogenic acid may also help to reduce insulin resistance.

One medium sweet potato provides four grams of fibre which is just as much fibre as in oats. The fibre found in sweet potatoes plays a role in weight loss or maintenance, preventing heart disease, managing blood sugar and promotes healthy bowel functioning.

Sweet potatoes are rich in essential minerals such as: Copper - Helps the body to store

iron and plays a role in maintaining healthy joints and supple skin.

Manganese - Plays a role in bone formation and metabolism of energy from carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

Magnesium - Works in the body to produce energy, make protein, and signals muscles to relax and contract.

Phosphorus - Helps generate energy, is a major component of bones and teeth, second only to calcium, promotes cell growth and repair.

Potassium - Ensures proper hydration by helping to maintain proper electrolyte balance in the body and is needed for brain function.

February 19 - 25, 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

Ixora and its Indian roots IXORA may be the most common flowering shrub seen in gardens and ‘Nora Grant’ likely the most popular of them all. Related to the gardenia and coffee plants, ixora is said to be native to Asia and its name derives from an Indian deity.

There are about 400 species spread from Africa to India to southern Asia. For red colour, ixora is popular in the Islands with blooms all year long, but maximum beauty is from late spring through the early winter months, peaking in the hot months.

The many types used in gardens vary with leaf size, plant height, flower size and flower colour. Cut flower stems are long lasting brought indoors.

Often Nora Grant is used as a hedge, but this is inappropriate. The leaves are too large to be a good hedge material and typical hedge pruning cuts off most of the stem tips from which flowers emerge.

It’s better to use ixora coccinea for hedges. It is a dense, multi-branched evergreen shrub, commonly four to six feet in height, but capable of reaching up to 12 feet high.

It has a rounded form with a spread that may exceed its height.

The glossy, leathery, oblong leaves are about four inches long, with entire margins, and are carried in opposite pairs or whorled on the stems.

Small tubular, scarlet flowers in dense rounded clusters, two to five inches across, are produced almost all year long. There are numerous named cultivars differing in flower colour (yellow, pink, orange).

Not all ixoras are grown for flower colour. For example, ixora odorata from Madagascar (hard to find in Provo) requires tropical shade, produces huge 10-inch blooms on a four to five feet bush whose attraction is also a wonderful lingering scent.

Excellent for shaded front door porches or backyard sitting areas Ixora, like other acid-loving plants such as hibiscus, gardenia, citrus and allamanda, can be an attractive landscape plant, but there are a few requirements you need to know to keep it healthy and flowering in your yard.

All acid-loving plants will require more fertilisation management.

Mostly this involves being aware of the pH (or acidity) of the soil you are planting in. A pH of around five is good for ixora; this pH is slightly lower than for most landscape

Ixora is a popular shrub as it blooms all year round.

plants.

A common problem is the quarry soil in the Islands, especially near concrete and pools, causing poor health, poor foliage and poor blooming.

This is especially true for yellow and dwarf ixora varieties. For best results, mix peat moss as a soil amendment and always use acid forming fertiliser. Minor trace elements are important as well.

Ixora can endure some salt spray on the wind. Planted in shady areas or with excess water on leaves, sooty mold usually sets in.

Older ixora plants may be attacked by root-knot nematodes; tiny wormlike creatures which bore into roots and weaken the plant.

If you have an old ixora hedge and one or two plants decline, you may pull them out and look at the roots to see if this appearance is present.

Turn trash into treasure

STRETCH your dollars using ordinary items from your own kitchen. Recycling not only saves money but it creates a mindset of making the best with what you have.

Plastic milk bottles 1. Cut off a portion of the top, leaving the handle in place. Add birdseed and make a bird feeder, hanging it on a clothesline or tree branch.

2. Make a garbage caddy for the sink, especially great if you don’t have a garbage disposal.

Ice cube trays 1. Add a squirt of lemon to your ice cube tray and you’ll have lemon flavored ice for your tea.

2. Kool-Aid flavoured ice for the kids; mix the flavours up for fun.

3. Use trays as drawer organisers for paperclips or sewing notions.

4. Ice cube trays are the perfect size for freezing small portions of left over baby food, or making your own homemade.

5. Freeze tablespoon sized amounts of broth or special sauces for cooking soups and casseroles.

Window boxes

IF YOU don’t own a garden, you can still grow herbs by fitting a window box. Chives, oregano, rosemary, cilantro, parsley and mint thrive on sunny ledges.

Jelly jars 1. Remove labels and use for gifts, placing a pretty piece of fabric on top and tying with a ribbon.

2. Great for pencil holders.

3. Fill with candy.

4. Use for storing cotton balls

or q-tips in the bathroom.

5. Store sewing notions, crafts or hardware.

Egg cartons 1. Great seed starters, get a head start on Spring.

2. Make a memory game for children, matching up items from around the house.

Lemons 1. Mix with a little salt for cleaning copper or brass.

2. Remove odours from hands or cutting boards.

3. Keep a supply on hand for seasoning poultry and seafood.

Oranges 1. Use the peelings to freshen your garbage disposal.

2. Cover with cloves and use as an air freshener.

3. Place open halves inside a turkey or chicken before baking to add a great flavour.

Baking soda 1. Add to a damp cloth and remove crayon and marker from walls and furniture.

2. Pour a little down the drain with some vinegar, let sit five minutes and wash down with warm water to clear clogged drains.

3. Mix with facial cleanser to make an exfoliator.

4. Keep an open box in the fridge to prevent odours, put one in the freezer too.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

February 19 - 25, 2011

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Labourer

FAX: (649) 946-4661

C & J EMPLOYMENT

Needed

For general cleaning and maintenance of residence. Salary: $5:00 per hour for a 40 hour work- week. Contact: B. Yvonne Kerr

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

3 –Laborers $5.00 per hour

649-243-0880

By Feb 25, 2011

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

BLUE HILLS CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

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

Contact 341-6828

6520

SELVERADO BLOCK/ CONSTRUCTION

POSITION AVAILABLE AT SPA

Providenciales Telephone: 331-0592

SPA – SKINCARE TECHNICIAN & MASSAGE THERAPIST A Spa is seeking to employ a certified spa & skincare technician/massage therapist.

The spa offers an array of treatments, such as:

LABOURER

6490

Contact: 332-7778 BEAUTY & BEYOND

Salary starts at $5.00 per hour. Only Turks Islanders need apply 6518

JACQUELIN DESRONVIL Is looking for a

Is seeking applicants to fill the following positions:

Barber

– salary $250.00 weekly

– salary $5.50 per hour

Spa Therapist

– salary $1000 per month 10% commission Email: beautyandbeyond.bb@gmail.com Deadline for applications 19th February 2011 All applicants must have experience

6472

Contact: 346-5064 fax: 946-8119

Labourer Only Turks Islanders need apply. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 241-7734

6545

Cosmetologist

• 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

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

February 19 - 25, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

21 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.

22

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 19 - 25, 2011

NATIONAL

Black History Month – Garrett Morgan

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.

Garrett Morgan was born on March 4, 1877 in Paris, Kentucky, the seventh of 11 children born to Sydney and Elizabeth Morgan.

Garrett, at the early age of 14, decided that he should travel north

to Ohio in order to receive a better education.

He moved to Cincinnati and then to Cleveland, working as a handyman in order to make ends meet.

February 19 - 25, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS NATIONAL

In Cleveland, he learned the inner workings of the sewing machine and in 1907 opened his own sewing machine store, selling new machines and repairing old ones.

In 1908, Morgan married Mary Anne Hassek with whom he would have three sons.

In 1909, Morgan opened a tailoring shop, selling coats, suits and dresses.

While working in this shop he came upon a discovery which brought about his first invention.

He noticed that the needle of a sewing machine moved so fast that its friction often scorched the thread of the woollen materials.

He thus set out to develop a liquid that would provide a useful polish to the needle, reducing friction.

When his wife called him to dinner, he wiped the liquid from his hands onto a piece of pony-fur cloth.

When he returned to his workshop, he saw that the fibres on the cloth were now standing straight up.

He theorised that the fluid

had actually straightened the fibres.

In order to confirm his theory, he decided to apply some of the fluid to the hair of a neighbour’s dog, an Airedale.

The fluid straightened the dog’s hair so much, the neighbour, not recognising his own pet, chased the animal away.

Morgan then decided to try the fluid on himself, to small portions of his hair at first, and then to his entire head.

He was successful and had invented the first human-hair straightener.

He marketed the product under the name the G A Morgan Hair Refining Cream and sold by his G A Morgan Refining Company, which became a very successful business.

In 1912, Morgan developed another invention, much different from his hair straightener. He called it a Safety Hood and patented it as a Breathing Device, but the world came to know it as a Gas Mask.

The Safety Hood consisted

of a hood worn over the head of a person from which emanated a tube which reached near the ground and allowed in clean air.

The bottom of the tube was lined with a sponge type material that would help to filter the incoming air.

Another tube existed which allowed the user to exhale air out of the device.

Morgan intended the device to be used “to provide a portable attachment which will enable a fireman to enter a house filled with thick suffocating gases and smoke and to breathe freely for some time therein, and thereby enable him to perform his duties of saving life and valuables without danger to himself from suffocation.

“The device is also efficient and useful for protection to engineers, chemists and working men who are obliged to breathe noxious fumes or dust derived from the materials in which they are obliged to work.”

The National Safety Device Company, with Morgan as

its general manager, was set up to manufacture and sell the device and it was demonstrated at various exhibitions across the country.

At the second International Exposition of Safety and Sanitation, the device won first prize and Morgan was award a gold medal.

While demonstrations were good for sales, the true test of the product would come only under real life circumstances.

When it proved efficient orders came in from fire and police departments across the country.

Unfortunately, many of these orders were cancelled when it was discovered that Morgan was black.

However Morgan continued with his endeavours and was compelled to try to solve safety problems of the day.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 19 - 25, 2011

February 19 - 25, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 19 - 25, 2011

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Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 19 - 25, 2011

Reggae star Buju Banton Bahamian bishop could face life in US prison denies sex allegations MIAMI (AP) — Grammy-winning singer Buju Banton checked out some cocaine, put some on his finger and tasted it — all of it caught on law enforcement video inside a Florida warehouse. Now he has another chance to explain why.

His second trial began on Monday, just a day after his 2010 album “Before the Dawn” won the Grammy award for best reggae album. The trial comes five months after a previous jury hung on federal drug trafficking charges that could put him in prison for life.

Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, claims he was entrapped by a confidential informant and got in over his head while trying to impress the man, who implied he could help Banton’s music career.

The U.S. government says Banton conspired with two associates to buy a shipment of cocaine from an undercover officer.

The two other men pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with investigators. Their sentencing hearings are scheduled next month.

Banton, 37, was arrested in December 2009 at his Miami-area home.

He remained in custody until November, when another Jamaican singer, Stephen Marley, reggae legend Bob Marley’s son, posted his South Florida home as bond. Banton has been on house arrest except for a Miami concert last month to raise money for legal expenses.

Federal prosecutors initially charged Banton with drug conspiracy and gun charges, and in November added two more drug-related charges.

“Buju is not guilty. The number of charges doesn’t change that,” Banton’s attorney, David Markus, said in an e-mail. “The prosecution wasn’t happy with the first trial, so now it is trying to throw as many charges against the wall in the hopes something sticks.”

Markus has argued the singer, who

Buju Banton

rose from the slums of Kingston to massive success in the 1990s, was a victim of entrapment by an informant who’s been paid $3.3 million for working with law enforcement over several years.

During his first trial, the Rastafarian singer, his long dreadlocks tied in a braid, testified that he talked a lot about cocaine with the informant, Alexander Johnson. But he said he was only trying to impress the man, who claimed to have music industry connections. He said he had no interest in buying or selling drugs.

“I talk too much, but I am not a drug dealer,” Banton said on the stand.

In excerpts from their recorded conversations from July 2009 through December 2009 that were played for the jury, the husky-voiced singer told Johnson that he financed drug deals and that he wanted to sell drugs in Europe, buy drugs from the Caribbean and South America, and use Johnson’s boat to transport drugs. The men met on a transAtlantic flight at the end of Banton’s European tour for his album “Rasta Got Soul.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney James Preston argued Banton’s conversations with the informant put the conspiracy into motion. Banton testified that he never wanted nor

PUERTO RICO:

One dead in shooting at Puerto Rico food court SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — Police in Puerto Rico say a man was killed and two women injured in a shooting in the food court of a busy mall.

Sgt. Santiago Bernier says the attack occurred inside the San Patricio Mall in the San Juan suburb of Guaynabo. The gunman fired several shots at his intended victim and the two women were bystanders. The identities and

ages of the victims in Monday’s attack were not released.

Bernier said there have been no arrests but there were a large number of witnesses and security cameras.

Homicides have soared in Puerto Rico in recent years, making it one of the most violent places under the U.S. flag. Most of the violence is linked to the island’s thriving drug trade.

expected Johnson to set up a cocaine deal, despite what he said in the recordings.

Johnson testified that he surprised Banton with cocaine at an undercover police warehouse in Sarasota on Dec. 8, 2009. Surveillance video shows Banton tasting the drugs.

The singer was not present two days later when his two associates, Ian Thomas and James Mack, were caught on video trying to buy the drugs at the warehouse.

His Grammy-winning album’s 10 songs were recorded in Kingston, Jamaica, before his arrest. The singer worked with producers and engineers over the phone from jail to finish the album before its September release.

In an e-mail from his manager last week, Banton thanked his fans for their support and celebrated his fifth Grammy nomination. “’Before The Dawn’ is a prophetic album and if it happens to win I am grateful,” Banton said. “If it doesn’t, I still say thanks for the appreciation and the recognition because music is an art form that cannot be denied by any living soul. Music is my life.”

In Jamaica, some fans have theorised Banton was framed by the U.S. government or gay activists who have protested violent, homophobic lyrics from early in Banton’s career as a brash dancehall singer. Shows in several U.S. cities were cancelled on his 2009 tour because of the protests.

Banton jabbed at his detractors during his Jan. 16 performance in Miami, referencing one of his controversial songs and the messiah of his Rastafarian faith.

EPA to monitor air quality around Hovensa in USVI CHARLOTTE AMALIE, U.S. Virgin Islands (AP) — Federal officials in the U.S. Virgin Islands will monitor air pollution around a huge oil refinery that has raised environmental concerns.

The Environmental Protection Agency says it will measure volatile organic compounds for three months near the Hovensa refinery. The agency said Tuesday that preliminary results will be released around May and could lead to additional monitoring or enforcement actions.

A fire broke out at the refinery last week, and the company recently agreed to spend more than $700 million on pollution controls and pay a $5.4 million penalty for violating the Clean Air Act. Hovensa is a joint venture of the U.S. oil company Hess Corp. and Venezuela’s state oil company.

PASTOR Earl Randolph Fraser on Tuesday passionately denied a string of sexual allegations brought by a teenage member of his church in the Bahamas.

Fraser, pastor of Pilgrim Baptist Church on St. James Road, is accused of having an affair with a 16-year-old that allegedly began in July 2005 and ended in February 2006. Prosecutors allege that Fraser abused his position of trust by allegedly beginning the sexual relationship with the girl who had come to him for counselling.

The girl has alleged that she had sex with Fraser at his church before services began on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Fraser said, “I must be a moron or a monster to engage in such activities before going to preach the word of God.” Fraser told the court that members ensured that no one disturbed him before services. He said that there was no way that the complainant could have come to his office without anyone seeing her.

He also pointed out that the girl

attended the 11 a.m. not the early morning service.

Fraser said: “It would be impossible for these liaisons to occur with the amount of people around.”

Fraser also refuted allegations that he took the girl to his home in Eastwood Estates and had sex with her when his wife was abroad at a women’s conference. The girl claimed this occurred in October 2005. Fraser said his wife went away in November.

The girl claimed that Fraser picked her up from her grandmother’s home at 2 a.m. and brought her to his place.

However, Fraser said she could not have left her home unnoticed as she slept with her grandmother in a home occupied by eight to 10 people.

The girl alleged that she and Fraser had sex three times at the home and they showered together before he took her home.

Fraser said, “It did not happen” as he denied the girl was at his home.

The trial continues before Deputy Chief Magistrate Carolita Bethell.

(Nassau Guardian)

HAITI:

Bill Clinton, two presidential candidates, discuss reconstruction efforts PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Former U.S. President Bill Clinton discussed the future of efforts to reconstruct this earthquake-ravaged nation with two candidates who will face off next month in presidential elections.

During his one-day visit, Clinton met separately behind closed doors at the Hotel Karibe with carnival singer Michel “Sweet Micky” Martelly and former first lady Mirlande Manigat, who will compete in a March 20 runoff.

In response to a question from reporters after the meeting, Martelly said he thought ousted President Jean-Bertrand Aristide had a right to return to the country.

“If there is a problem, the justice system will take care of it,” he said.

“Right now, we have a second round,

and that is what we are worried about.”

Manigat later echoed Martelly’s sentiments, saying Aristide has as much right to return as did dictator Jean-Claude “Baby Doc” Duvalier, who remains in Haiti.

“It is possible their presence might create a problem,” she said. “But we will have to deal with that.”

As she spoke in the hotel lobby, she was approached by Martelly. The two political competitors embraced in a friendly greeting and had a brief chat.

Clinton did not speak to the news media but is scheduled to give a news conference with Prime Minister JeanMax Bellerive later Tuesday.

Clinton is a special U.N. envoy to Haiti and co-chairs the Interim Haiti Reconstruction Commission with Bellerive.

Undersea cable connects Jamaica to Cuba, Venezuela KINGSTON, Jamaica (AP) — An extension of a new undersea fiberoptic cable connecting Cuba and Venezuela has reached Jamaica.

Venezuela’s government says the now 1,150-mile-long (1,850kilometer-long) cable was installed Monday in the Jamaican resort town of Ocho Rios. A second segment will extend the cable to other Caribbean

countries.

Jamaican officials did not comment on Venezuela’s announcement.

The $70 million project is being carried out by AlcatelLucent SA of France for the state telecommunication companies of Venezuela and Cuba. It is expected to be operational by June or July.

February 19 - 25, 2011

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Eighteen killed in cartel-plagued northern Mexican town CIUDAD VICTORIA, Mexico (AP) — A series of shootings left 18 people dead Monday in a town in northern Mexico where a turf war has raged between two brutal drug cartels.

The violence damaged the city hall, a court and the police headquarters in Padilla, a town just north of the Tamaulipas state capital of Ciudad Victoria, the state government said in a statement.

Seven bodies were dumped in Padilla’s main square on Monday, another five people were shot to death inside their car, and another person was killed in an attack on a passenger bus, the statement said.

Five other inhabitants of the town were killed, but the statement did not specify how.

Tamaulipas, a state bordering Texas, has seen some of the worst atrocities in Mexico’s drug war since fighting broke out last year between the Gulf cartel and a gang of its former enforcers known as the Zetas.

Nearly all inhabitants fled one small, picturesque town in the Rio Grande Valley after months of gang battles. In the worst massacre, 72 Central and South American migrants were found bound and shot to death in Tamaulipas ranch in August.

Authorities say the Zetas killed the migrants for refusing to work for the gang.

The Tamaulipas government said innocent bystanders were among the dead in Padilla, but it did not specify how many. The statement expressed “solidarity with the families of the

innocent victims.”

In neighbouring Nuevo Leon state, meanwhile, gunmen killed a top intelligence officer, then torched his car, the state government said in a statement.

Homero Salcido Trevino’s body was found in a smoldering car abandoned in downtown Monterrey, Mexico’s once-peaceful third-largest city that has also been besieged by the Gulf-Zetas fighting.

Salcido Trevino was the director of the state’s intelligence and security center, a job he had taken in August.

He was shot at least five times, said the statement, which offered no additional details.

The attack had some of the hallmarks of a drug cartel hit, but Nuevo Leon Gov. Rodrigo Medina said investigators had not confirmed that. “It is still premature to tell you it was organized crime,” he said.

Local news media reported that Salcido Trevino, who was the nephew of former state Public Safety Secretary Luis Carlos Trevino Berchelmann, had been kidnapped hours earlier as he left his home.

Authorities would not comment on the reports.

Gang members have fiercely attacked police and soldiers trying to restore order across Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas. Police, mayors — and even the leading gubernatorial candidate in Tamaulipas — have been assassinated in more than a year of violence.

Killings soared in Nuevo Leon state last year to 620, compared to 112 in 2009.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC:

Gunmen slay Venezuelan at outdoor restaurant; 3 taken for questioning SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) — Authorities in the Dominican Republic say a Venezuelan man has been gunned down at an open-air restaurant in the capital.

Police Chief Jose Armando Polanco says two men on a motorcycle pulled up at the streetside eatery Thursday night.

One dismounted and opened fire at close range, striking 45-year-old Rafael Mauricio Verdeja twice in the

back. A waiter was wounded.

Polanco said three men were being questioned, including a Venezuelan who apparently made a hotel reservation for the victim.

He did not say whether they were suspects.

Polanco said Friday the victim was dining with a woman who left the table moments before the attack.

Her whereabouts were unknown.

Police did not speculate on a motive.

First College of Bahamas president dies THE first president of The College of The Bahamas died earlier this week.

Dr. Keva Marie Bethel passed away on the day that her brother, Bishop Michael Eldon, the first Bahamian Bishop of the Diocese of the Bahamas, was laid to rest.

She was 75 years old.

Highlighting Bethel’s deep commitment to education in the country, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham issued a statement following her death yesterday.

“Dr. Bethel, a warm, caring and generous woman, an extraordinary Bahamian, was dedicated to the education and advancement of all Bahamians, and to the promotion and preservation of our culture, as well as to our overall national development,” he said.

“Many thousands of Bahamian

students benefitted from her enduring commitment and tireless service.”

The Progressive Liberal Party also expressed condolences on Bethel’s passing.

“Dr. Bethel was a pioneer in Bahamian education, a stalwart Bahamian patriot dedicated to the development of the intellectual talent of our country,” it said.

“She is a cultural icon. Even after retiring, she was called upon by this nation time and time again to serve and she never said no. Dr. Bethel is the essence of public service, love of country without fear or favor.”

Bethel’s monumental contribution to the national education system began with her post at Government High School as assistant mistress in Spanish and French in 1959. The educator went on to make an impact

TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras (AP) — A small Honduran commercial airliner crashed Monday near the capital, killing all 14 people aboard, including a senior government official and a top union leader, authorities said.

The Central American Airlines plane was flying to the Toncontin international airport in Tegucigalpa when it crashed Monday morning in the town of Las Mesitas, about three miles (five kilometres) south of the airport.

The cause of the crash is being investigated, but there was fog in the area at the time. Tincontin airport is considered dangerous because of its short runway and surrounding hills.

The Let L-410 Turbolet was carrying two pilots and 12 passengers, including Assistant Secretary for Public Works Rodolfo Rovelo, United Workers Federation of Honduras leader Jose Israel Salinas and former Economy Secretary Carlos Chain, said airline manager Felix Pacheco.

“I’m destroyed, in shock, because of what happened,” Pacheco said, adding that it was a regularly scheduled daily flight.

The government declared three

Rescue workers remove bodies from the wreckage of a small commercial airplane after it crashed near the town of Las Mesitas on the outskirts of the capital city of Tegucigalpa, Honduras Monday Feb. 14, 2011. All 14 people aboard were killed, including a high government official and a union leader, authorities said. (AP Photo/Fernando Antonio)

days of national mourning in honour of the government officials killed.

A pilot survived the crash but died on the way to a hospital, firefighters’ spokesman Jaime Silva said.

The National Service of Civil Aviation said the accident happened a little after 8

Cuban union leader: Layoffs going slowly Jose Manuel Castanedo, the top union leader for the capital, Havana, told a key labour assembly that the delay has been exacerbated by disagreements between the union and administrators at the various staterun entities where the layoffs are to take place. Labor Minister Margarita Gonzalez added that unspecified mistakes by the commissions have

on education in The Bahamas that has spanned some 50 years.

Bethel became The College of The Bahamas’ first president in 1995, after serving as principal of the nation’s chief tertiary institution since 1982. She retired from her post as president of the college in 1998.

Dr. Bethel was also the widow of the late cultural icon E. Clement Bethel. Since his death in 1987, E. Clement Bethel has been widely celebrated for his enormous contributions to the arts and to cultural expression in The Bahamas. He was the first Director of Culture, a post in which the couple’s daughter Nicolette served many years later. Both Nicolette and Edward, the couple’s children, are educators. (Extracts from the Nassau Guardian)

Small commercial plane crash kills 14 in Honduras

CUBA:

HAVANA (AP) — Cuban government and union officials are acknowledging for the first time that a drive to fire half a million unneeded state workers has gotten off to a slow start, due to a lack of communication within the Labour Ministry and incompetence among the thousands of commissions set up to decide who gets the ax.

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often frozen the process.

The closed-door weekend assembly was reported Monday by Trabajadores, the official newspaper of the three million-strong Cuban Workers Confederation. It is the only labour organisation allowed on the communist-ruled island.

“When procedural errors are made, everything must start again

from the beginning, no matter how many workers are involved,” the newspaper said.

President Raul Castro announced the layoffs as part of a major overhaul of the Cuban economy, saying the state could no longer afford to pay people who didn’t work. The firings amount to about one-tenth of the island’s labour force.

a.m. (8 a.m. EST; 1300 GMT), minutes after air traffic controllers instructed the pilots to land.

Jorge Deras, mayor of the town of Santa Ana, near Las Mesitas, said he heard an explosion and ran to the crash site.

“We found many ... bodies strewn about,” Deras said. “It’s a tragic vision.”

At least 10 planes have crashed in and around the Toncontin airport since October 1989, when a Honduran commercial jet went down, killing 131 people.

Toncontin’s short runway, old navigation equipment and neighboring hills make it one of the world’s more dangerous international airports. It was built on the southern edge of hilly Tegucigalpa in 1948 with a runway less than 5,300 feet (1,600 metres) long.

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World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

US deficit is biggest share of economy since 1945 WASHINGTON (AP) — Not since World War II has the federal budget deficit made up such a big chunk of the U.S. economy. And within two or three years, economists fear the result could be sharply higher interest rates that would slow economic growth.

The budget plan President Barack Obama sent Congress on Monday foresees a record deficit of $1.65 trillion this year. That would be just under 11 percent of the $14 trillion economy — the largest proportion since 1945, when wartime spending swelled the deficit to 21.5 percent of U.S. gross domestic product.

The danger is that a persistently large gap in the budget could threaten the economy. Investors would see lending their money to the U.S. as riskier. So they’d demand higher returns to do it. Or they’d simply put their cash elsewhere. Interest rates on mortgages and other debt would rise as a result.

And if borrowing turned more expensive, people and businesses might scale back their spending.

That would weaken an economy still struggling to lower unemployment, revive real estate prices and restore corporate and consumer confidence.

So far, it hasn’t happened. It’s still cheap for the government to borrow money and finance deficits. But economists fear the domino effect if all that changes.

“The moment when markets react negatively to our budget deficit cannot be known in advance, but we are absolutely in the danger zone,” says Marvin Goodfriend, an economics professor at Carnegie Mellon University’s Tepper School of Business.

Higher interest rates would also raise interest payments on the federal debt. It would be costlier for the government to finance its operations.

The interest payments themselves could then make the deficit increase, creating a vicious cycle.

Under the projections in Obama’s budget, the deficit as a share of the overall economy would narrow from 10.9 percent this year to 7 percent next year and eventually to 2.9 percent by the 2018 fiscal year.

But after that, in the remaining years of this decade, the deficit would widen slightly as a percentage of the economy. It would average about 3.1 percent because of escalating costs for programmes like Social Security and Medicare as baby boomers age and receive benefits.

Economists generally say cutting the deficit to about 3 percent or less of the economy would be healthy.

Deficits at that level are considered “sustainable” — meaning they could

President Barack Obama walks with budget director Jack Lew and Education Secretary Arne Duncan on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington as they travel to Baltimore, Md., Monday, Feb. 14, 2011. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

be easily financed and wouldn’t make investors nervous about the government’s finances.

Most economists don’t think the deficit should be cut deeply now.

They say the economy remains so fragile — unemployment is at 9 percent — that it needs big government spending to invigorate growth.

In this camp is Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke. He’s argued that now isn’t the time to slash government spending or raise taxes. Instead, Bernanke has urged Congress and the White House to preserve federal stimulus — including tax cuts — in the short run but draft a plan to reduce the deficit over the long run.

A presidential commission last year made recommendations that Bernanke and other economists say could help curb the deficit over the long term. Its suggestions included raising the Social Security retirement age and reducing future increases in benefits. It also proposed increasing the gasoline tax and eliminating or scaling back tax breaks, like the mortgage interest deduction claimed by many Americans.

Obama embraced none of these proposals in his budget. But his plan is designed to cut $1.1 trillion from the deficit over the next decade, twothirds of it from spending cuts. The rest would come from tax increases, such as limiting the deductions for high-income taxpayers.

In Bernanke’s view, a long-term plan to reduce future deficits would mean lower long-term interest rates and increased consumer and business confidence.

For months, though, longer-term

rates have been creeping up, driven by prospects of stronger growth and concerns about higher inflation.

The yield on the 10-year Treasury note is now 3.61 percent. That’s up sharply from 2.48 percent in early November.

That increase is making other loans, including mortgages, more expensive. The average rate for a 30year fixed mortgage just rose above 5 percent for the first time since April.

Rates are still extremely low by historical standards. In 1983, during Ronald Reagan’s first presidential term, the deficit soared to $208 billion, about 6 percent of the economy at the time. The rate on the 10-year note topped 10 percent.

And getting a 30-year mortgage meant paying 13 percent.

Economists say that if investors trust that Congress and the White House will curb budget deficits over the long haul, interest rates could stabilise — even if deficits exceed $1 trillion over the next year or two. But if investors lose confidence that Washington policymakers can curb the deficits, rates could rise sharply.

“It’s all about perception,” says Lou Crandall, chief economist at Wrightson ICAP, a research firm.

So far, China, the biggest buyer of U.S. debt, and other countries have maintained their appetites for Treasuries. Foreign demand for Treasury debt has helped keep U.S. interest rates historically low.

The reason is that the United States is still considered a haven for many foreign investors. That point was underscored by Europe’s debt crisis last year, when money poured into dollar-denominated Treasuries.

February 19 - 25, 2011

Pope’s visit cost British taxpayers $11 million

LONDON (AP) — The government says Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to Britain last year cost taxpayers 7 million pounds ($11 million) before security costs.

The figure includes three million pounds for media facilities and 34,000 pounds for transporting the Popemobile.

The government was criticised earlier this month when it disclosed that 1.85 million pounds for the trip came from Britain’s

foreign aid budget.

The pontiff met British political and religious leaders and addressed large crowds in London, Scotland and central England during his four-day visit in September.

Foreign Office minister Henry Bellingham released the figures Wednesday and said the Catholic Church and the Scottish government were also contributing to the costs.

Police have not disclosed the security price tag.

Suspected vigilante police arrested in Brazil SAO PAULO (AP) — Brazilian authorities say they have arrested nearly 20 police officers suspected of taking part in a death squad that allegedly murdered and tortured innocent women and children.

Federal police spokesman Elias Abraao says 19 Goias state troopers face charges ranging from murder and hiding bodies to torture and gang formation.

He says the group was active for at least 10 years and killed at least 40 people.

Abraao said Wednesday most of the victims were drug traffickers and thieves “the vigilante group felt it had the right to get rid of.”

But he says several of those killed were women, children and teenagers unconnected to criminal activities.

German in incest case admits molesting daughter KOBLENZ, Germany (AP) — An 18-year-old girl broke down in tears Wednesday as she told a court about being sexually abused for years by her father, who also forced her into prostitution at age 14.

Following the emotional testimony, defendant Detlef S. talked with his attorney, Thomas Dueber, who then told the court the 48-yearold acknowledged what his daughter said was true.

The scene took place behind closed doors to protect the witness’ privacy, but was recounted to the wider court by Presiding Judge Winfried Hetger after the public was allowed back inside, the news agency DAPD reported.

Detlef S., whose last name has not been given due to German privacy concerns, is accused of assaulting his daughter as well as his twin stepdaughter and stepson, who are now 28, between 1987 and 2010.

He admitted Tuesday at the start of the trial to fathering eight children with his stepdaughter — one of whom died in infancy — but denied the 350 counts of sexual abuse against him and 35 other

counts for allegedly forcing the two girls to have sex with other men for money.

No plea has been entered, as per usual in a German court.

His stepson Bjoern B. also took the stand behind closed doors Wednesday, telling the court that he was sexually abused by his stepfather starting in 1987, and that Detlef S. threatened to beat him if he told anyone, Hetger said.

Detlef S., an unemployed truck driver, once beat his wife senseless, and also punched other family members and sometimes struck them with a homemade whip, the stepson told the court, according to the judge.

If convicted, Detlef S. faces a possible 15 years in prison. Attorneys for the victims, however, say they will push to have him declared a danger to society so that he can be held indefinitely.

“If he were to get out of prison, I’d run away,” his daughter said in an interview published Wednesday in Germany’s Bunte magazine.

A verdict is expected by the end of February.

February 19 - 25, 2011

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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Italy’s Berlusconi indicted in prostitution probe MILAN (AP) — His penchant for beautiful young women has cost him his wife, and now may cost Silvio Berlusconi what he cherishes most: power.

The 74-year-old Italian premier was ordered Tuesday to stand trial on charges he paid a 17-year-old Moroccan girl for sex, and then used his influence to cover it up — an offense that, if proven, could see him barred permanently from public office.

Berlusconi has called the allegations “groundless” and dismissed the case as a “farce,” accusing prosecutors of seeking to oust him from power. He did not comment Tuesday, skipping a news conference in Sicily and meeting with his lawyer in Rome.

Unlike Berlusconi’s many past legal problems involving businessrelated charges concerning his Mediaset empire, this time he faces allegations of personal misconduct while serving as the head of government. The trial is set to begin April 6 before a panel of three female judges.

Prosecutors have already relayed more than 700-pages of wiretap conversations describing raucous behaviour that would draw censure at most fraternity houses: sex-fueled parties attended by scantily clad women, sometimes dressed as nurses or police officers.

The indictment alleges Berlusconi paid for sex with the Moroccan girl, nicknamed Ruby, then used his influence to get her out of police

custody when she was detained in connection with an unrelated theft of $4,103 (€3,000). Prosecutors say Berlusconi called police the night of May 27-28, 2010, because he feared his relationship with the teen would be revealed.

So far Italians have been forgiving, with Berlusconi’s popularity damaged by the scandal but not demolished. However, having such details aired in a courtroom and not just on newspaper pages could change the tide against Berlusconi, experts warned.

“If you start to hear something (that) is really embarrassing and difficult to handle, I think that could hurt the image of Berlusconi and his position as prime minister,” said Franco Pavoncello, a political analyst at John Cabot University in Rome.

Judge Cristina Di Censo handed down the indictment Tuesday with a terse statement that showed she believes there is sufficient evidence to subject Berlusconi to an immediate trial, as prosecutors requested. The speeded-up procedure, which is ordered in cases of overwhelming evidence, skips a preliminary hearing that alone can take nearly a year.

The child prostitution charge carries a possible prison term of six months to three years. However, the abuse of influence charge is even more dangerous: It carries a sentence of four to 12 years, and if Berlusconi is sentenced to more than five, he would be barred from ever again holding public office.

Bank of England says inflation worsening LONDON (AP) — The Bank of England warned Wednesday that inflation is surging faster than anticipated, but Governor Mervyn King dampened expectations of an early interest rate hike to counter rising prices as the bank also lowered its growth forecast for the British economy.

King, who has come under pressure in recent months for ruling out rate rises even as consumer prices soar well above target levels, said that people were “running ahead of themselves” on the timing of a rise from the current record low of 0.5 percent.

Speaking to reporters after the release of the bank’s closelywatched Quarterly Inflation Report, King robustly defended the nine-member Monetary Policy Committee against a raft of questions challenging the bank’s credibility and the validity of its 2 percent inflation target.

Official figures out Tuesday showed that consumer prices rose

to 4 percent in January, from 3.7 percent in December — double the bank’s target and prompting a public explanation from King to Treasury chief George Osborne.

The bank’s central forecast is for inflation to peak at about 4.4 percent this year amid higher commodity prices and domestic inflationary expectations and remain above target until around the middle of 2012. King added that the timing and extent of the fall are uncertain.

The bank added that the growth outlook has worsened after surprise figures last month showing gross domestic product shrank by 0.5 percent in the fourth quarter.

The forecasts assume key interest rates rise to 1 percent by the end of this year and 2 percent by the end of 2012, but King cautioned against predicting a rise too soon and highlighting differences of view among the MPC about the inflation outlook.

The Moroccan girl nicknamed “Ruby” (now 18) attends a party in a disco in Genoa, Italy.

Both Berlusconi and the now 18year-old Moroccan nightclub dancer

deny having had sex together. Ruby, in a TV interview on a Mediaset channel, said Berlusconi gave her $9,000 (€7,000) the evening they met, and later jewellery.

The trial will follow the resumption of three other criminal cases involving Berlusconi’s business dealings, creating both a legal morass for the premier, and a judicial juggling act as panels seek to schedule hearings amid Berlusconi’s commitments as head of government.

At the same time, a weakened Berlusconi will face the challenge of keeping unruly coalition partners happy, while attempting to repair the image of his country — badly damaged by his own scandal — on the international stage.

The trial itself will take months, if not years, given the difficulty of scheduling court appearances. While

defendants are not required to attend trials in Italy, Berlusconi’s defense has often invoked his willingness to do so. Still, he has rarely showed up in court.

Berlusconi’s supporters had pushed for jurisdiction to be transferred to the Tribunal of Ministers, which deals with offenses committed by public officials in the execution of their duties. They argued that Berlusconi intervened with the Milan police because he believed Ruby was the niece of now ousted Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak and was trying to prevent a diplomatic incident.

Pierluigi Bersani, the leader of the opposition Democratic Party, called for Berlusconi’s resignation, demanding early elections. “We don’t want Italy to be drifting,” Bersani said.

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Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 19 - 25, 2011

Lady Antebellum wins record, song of year LOS ANGELES (AP) — Lady Antebellum won big at the Grammys with five awards, including record and song of the year for the band’s yearning crossover ballad “Need You Now,” but Canadian rockers Arcade Fire won Sunday’s biggest prize, album of the year, for their highly acclaimed “The Suburbs.”

Arcade Fire’s Win Butler was visibly stunned as the group accepted their trophy and then quickly rushed to perform the last song of the night.

Rapper Eminem perhaps had reason to be stunned as well. Though nominated for a leading 10 awards, including record, song, and album of the year, he took home just two — both in the rap categories, for best album and solo performance.

It was the third time Eminem lost in the category, despite a criticallyacclaimed work that marked his resurgence after time out of the spotlight, a few sub-par projects and successful recovery from a prescription drug addiction.

While Arcade Fire’s win was a surprise, it wasn’t totally unexpected, as “The Suburbs” dominated many critic’s best-of lists of 2010. The true upset came as Esperanza Spalding — a jazz bassist and singer who sold a fraction of Canadian Justin Bieber’s music and is perhaps best identified by her voluminous Afro hairstyle — beat the perfectly coifed 16-year-old pop phenomenon for best new artist.

She also bested Drake and British groups Florence & the Machine and Mumford & Sons.

She is the first jazz artist to ever win the category.

“I take this honour to heart so sincerely and I’ll do my damnedest to make great music for all of you. It’s such an honour and God bless,” said a shocked Spalding, who released her third album, “The Chamber Music Society,” last year.

While Bieber-nation was in an

In the biggest shocker of the Grammy Esperanza Spalding upstaged Justin Bieber as the best new artist.

uproar, the teen sensation himself was cheerful backstage after the loss — perhaps assuaged by the fact that he’s sold millions and owns America’s No. 2 movie with his documentary “Never Say Never.”

The evening’s other top winners included rapper Jay-Z and singers John Legend and Lady Gaga, who each had three trophies; and Train, whose “Hey, Soul Sister (Live),” one of the year’s top songs, captured best pop performance by a duo or group with vocals.

British rock band Muse made its Grammy debut performance and won best rock album for “The Resistance,” beating out Pearl Jam, Neil Young, Tom Petty and British guitarist Jeff Beck, who won twice for instrumental performances.

Other British winners included duo La Roux for best electronic album, Iron Maiden for best metal performance and Sade for an R&B category.

Lady Antebellum’s wins mark the second straight year a country crossover act was the night’s top

story; Last year, Taylor Swift captured best album among her wins.

The Grammys give out 109 awards — but most of those are doled out before the live telecast in a ceremony before the CBS show. Instead of focusing on the awards, the Grammy show emphasised performances for the year’s most celebrated artists, along with emerging acts and true legends.

Lady Gaga entered the Staples Center, where the Grammys were held, in dramatic fashion, encased in an egg as dancers carried her to the stage. When she “hatched,” she seemed to have turned into Madonna, circa 1987, as she sashayed across the stage to her new song “Born This Way.” But the singer, normally the most outrageous performer on any bill, was out-Gaga’d by Cee Lo Green, Gwyneth Paltrow and Jim Henson Co.’s puppets, who gave a hilarious performance of “Forget You” that would have done Elton John proud.

Decked out in feathers of seemingly every hue, Green — who was nominated for record and song of the year for the dirty version of the song, “(Expletive) You,” crooned alongside a sassy gaggle of puppets and Paltrow, who performed “Forget You” on the Fox TV show “Glee.”

The actress, who recently played a singer in the movie “Country Song” and is slated to sing on the Oscars telecast, perhaps should seriously consider joining hubby Chris Martin of Coldplay as a regular recording artist.

It was easily the show stopper in a night of performances that included a tribute to Aretha Franklin, a retro performance from Bruno Mars, a dazzling number by newcomer Janelle Monae that was James Brown-esque, a collaboration with Mumford & Sons, the Avett Brothers and a very raspy Bob Dylan.

Chris Tomlin, TobyMac lead Dove Award nominations ATLANTA (AP) — Chris Tomlin and TobyMac each got six nominations for the Dove Awards, the gospel and Christian music show that will be held in Atlanta for the first time.

Jason Crabb and Chris August drew the second-most with five nominations apeice for the 42nd annual show, which was traditionally held in Nashville, Tennessee. Francesca Battistelli and Marvin Sapp each received four.

It will air on April 24, which is Easter Sunday, on the Gospel Music Channel. The awards show will be hosted by ‘The View’ cohost Sherri Shepherd from the Fox Theatre in midtown Atlanta.

Battistelli, who welcomed her

first child last year, is looking for her second straight award for best female vocalist. She’ll also compete for artist of the year against Tomlin, TobyMac, Tomlin, Crabb, Sapp, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound and Natalie Grant.

“This has definitely been a whirlwind the last couple of years,” said Battistelli after the nominee announcement. “With me being a mom and a wife, this just adds to the mix. It’s very exciting and adds to the mix of my juggling life. I’m blessed.”

Tomlin, who led all nominees and collected two awards in 2009, is up for best male vocalist and song of the year with “Our God.” He’ll seek his second career song of the year award. Other nominees

are TobyMac, MercyMe, Sanctus Real, Triumphant Quartet, Crabb, Chris August and Battistelli.

TobyMac looks to claim the pop/contemporary song category for the second year in a row with “Get Back Up.” Gospel rapper Lecrae said he is focused on broadening the culture of hip-hop more within the gospel genre after being nominated for rap/hip-hop recorded song of the year and rap/hip-hop album of the year.

“I represent a demographic, a culture of young people who are passionate about their faith,” Lecrae said. “I want to show that God isn’t just loving on one kind of sound. I just want to show how incredible he is.”

Lady Antebellum, from left, Charles Kelley, Hilary Scott, and Dave Haywood accept the award for best country album at the 53rd annual Grammy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 13, 2011, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Matt Sayles)

Gospel legend Mavis Staples was a tearful winner as she picked up the first Grammy of her career, for best Americana album, for “You Are Not Alone.”

“That was the shock of my life.

My goodness; it’s been a long time, a long time coming,” she said, breaking into tears.

Young also won his first musical Grammy (he had won for best boxed box set in 2009). “I’m not Mavis, but I’m close,” he joked, as he held his trophy for best rock song for “Angry World.”

In the pre-televised ceremony, Toumani Diabate and the late Ali Farka Toure of Mali won best traditional world music album for “Ali And Toumani.” Their 2005 collaboration “In the Heart of the Moon” Banjo maestro Bela Fleck won again for best contemporary world music album for “Throw Down Your Heart, Africa Sessions Part 2,” his 15th Grammy. The first volume of his Africa Sessions series, which explores the banjo’s African roots, won two Grammys.

In the Latin awards, Grupo Fantasma, a funky Latin orchestra from Austin, Texas, won best Latin rock, alternative or urban album for “El Existential,” taking home its first Grammy on its second trip to the awards show. The decadeold group, which mixes funk with cumbia, salsa and other Latin styles, beat out ChocQuibTown.

The Afro-Colombian hip-hop trio performed “De Donde Vengo Yo” (Where I Come From), winner for best alternative song at the Latin Grammys in November.

“It’s a great thing,” said Grupo Fantasma’s Jose Galeano, a singer and timbale player. “It’s time people start listening to this type of music ...

It’s not reggaeton, it’s not rap. It’s a little bit of everything.”

The Spanish Harlem Orchestra won best tropical Latin album for “Viva La Tradicion,” its second win.

For best Latin jazz album, Cuban pianist Chucho Valdes and The Afro-Cuban Messengers won for “Chucho’s Steps.” Valdes has now won five Grammys, his last in 2009 for “Juntos Para Siempre,” which he made with his father, Bebo Valdes.

“VIVA LA MUSICA!” Chucho Valdes wrote on Twitter. “Happy for this new Grammy!”

Alejandro Sanz of Spain won best Latin pop album for “Paraiso Express,” his third Grammy win.

Other Latin winners included Little Joe & La Familia for best Tejano album; Intocable for best Norteno album; El Guero Y Su Banda Centenario for best Banda album.

Buju Banton of Jamaica won best reggae album for “Before The Dawn.” Banton faces life in prison with a trial scheduled to begin Monday, five months after a previous jury hung on federal drug trafficking charges.

French DJ David Guetta and Dutch DJ Afrojack won for best remixed recording, nonclassical, Guetta’s second win in that category.

Ray LaMontagne won best contemporary folk album for “God Willin’ & the Creek Don’t Rise,” an unexpected hit that the singersongerwriter produced himself after facing resistance from his label, RCA. In other traditional American categories, the black string band Carolina Chocolate Drops won for best traditional folk album, for “Genuine Negro Jig”; Buddy Guy won for best contemporary blues album for “Living Proof”; Pinetop Perkins and Willie ‘Big Eyes’ Smith won for best traditional blues album for “Joined At The Hip”; Patty Loveless won best bluegrass album for “Mountain Soul II”; Chubby Carrier and The Bayou Swamp Band won for best zydeco or Cajun album for “Zydeco Junkie”; Tia Carrere, who starred in the film “Wayne’s World,” won for best Hawaiian album.

February 19 - 25, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

33

Science & Technology

Alcohol abuse kills more than AIDS and violence each year GENEVA (Reuters) – Alcohol causes nearly four percent of deaths worldwide, more than AIDS, tuberculosis or violence, the World Health Organisation warned on Friday.

Rising incomes have triggered more drinking in heavily populated countries in Africa and Asia, including India and South Africa, and binge drinking is a problem in many developed countries, the United Nations agency said.

Yet alcohol control policies are weak and remain a low priority for most governments despite drinking’s heavy toll on society from road accidents, violence, disease, child neglect and job absenteeism, it said.

Approximately 2.5 million people die each year from alcohol related causes, the WHO said in its “Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health.”

“The harmful use of alcohol is especially fatal for younger age

groups and alcohol is the world’s leading risk factor for death among males aged 15-59,” the report found.

In Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), every fifth death is due to harmful drinking, the highest rate.

Binge drinking, which often leads to risky behaviour, is now prevalent in Brazil, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Russia, South Africa and Ukraine, and rising elsewhere, according to the WHO. “Worldwide, about 11 percent of drinkers have weekly heavy episodic drinking occasions, with men outnumbering women by four to one. Men consistently engage in hazardous drinking at much higher levels than women in all regions,” the report said.

Health ministers from the WHO’s 193 member states agreed last May to try to curb binge drinking and other growing forms of excessive alcoholuse through

higher taxes on alcoholic drinks and tighter marketing restrictions.

DISEASE AND INJURY Alcohol is a causal factor in 60 types of diseases and injuries, according to WHO’s first report on alcohol since 2004.

Its consumption has been linked to cirrhosis of the liver, epilepsy, poisonings, road traffic accidents, violence, and several types of cancer, including cancers of the colorectum, breast, larynx and liver.

“Six or seven years ago we didn’t have strong evidence of a causal relationship between drinking and breast cancer. Now we do,” Vladimir Poznyak, head of WHO’s substance abuse unit who coordinated the report, told Reuters.

Alcohol consumption rates vary greatly, from high levels in developed countries, to the lowest in North Africa, sub-Saharan Africa, and southern Asia, whose large

Muslim populations often abstain from drinking.

Homemade or illegally produced alcohol -- falling outside governmental controls and tax nets -- accounts for nearly 30 percent of total worldwide adult consumption.

Some is toxic.

In France and other European countries with high levels of adult per capita consumption, heavy episodic drinking is rather low, suggesting more regular but moderate drinking patterns.

Light to moderate drinking can have a beneficial impact on heart disease and stroke, according to the WHO. “However, the beneficial cardio-protective effect of drinking disappears with heavy drinking occasions,” it said.

One of the most effective ways to curb drinking, especially among young people, is to raise taxes, the report said. Setting age limits for buying and consuming alcohol, and

regulating alcohol levels in drivers, also reduce abuse if enforced.

Some countries restrict marketing of alcoholic beverages or on the industry’s sponsorship of sporting events.

“Yet not enough countries use these and other effective policy options to prevent death, disease and injury attributable to alcohol consumption,” the WHO said.

Alcohol producers including Diageo and Anheuser Busch InBev have said they recognise the importance of industry self-regulation to addressalcohol abuse and promote curbs on drunk drinking and illegal underage drinking.

But the brewer SABMiller has warned that policy measures like minimum pricing and high excise taxes on alcohol could cause more public health harm than good by leading more people to drink homemade or illegally produced alcohol.

Scientists connect global warming to extreme rain WASHINGTON (AP) — Extreme rainstorms and snowfalls have grown substantially stronger, two studies suggest, with scientists for the first time finding the telltale fingerprints of man-made global warming on downpours that often cause deadly flooding.

Two studies in Wednesday’s issue of the journal Nature link heavy rains to increases in greenhouse gases more than ever before.

One group of researchers looked at the strongest rain and snow events of each year from 1951 to 1999 in the Northern Hemisphere and found that the more recent storms were seven percent wetter. That may not sound like much, but it adds up to be a substantial increase, said the report from a team of researchers from Canada and Scotland.

The study did not single out specific storms but examined worstof-each-year events all over the Northern Hemisphere. While the study ended in 1999, the close of the decade when scientists say climate change kicked into a higher gear, the events examined were similar to more recent disasters: deluges that triggered last year’s deadly floods in Pakistan and in Nashville, Tennessee, and this winter’s paralysing blizzards in parts of the United States.

The change in severity was most apparent in North America, but that

could be because that is where the most rain gauges are, scientists said.

Both studies should weaken the argument that climate change is a “victimless crime,” said Myles Allen of the University of Oxford. He coauthored the second study, which connected flooding and climate change in Britain. “Extreme weather is what actually hurts people.”

Jonathan Overpeck, a University of Arizona climate scientist, who did not take part in either study, praised them as sensible and “particularly relevant given the array of extreme weather that we’ve seen this winter and stretching back over the last few years.”

Not all the extreme rain and snow events the scientists studied caused flooding. But since 1950, flooding has killed more than 2.3 million people, according to the World Health Organisation’s disaster database.

The British study focused on flooding in England and Wales in autumn of 2000. The disaster cost more than $1.7 billion in insured damages and was the wettest autumn for the region in more than 230 years of record-keeping.

Researchers found that global warming more than doubled the likelihood of that flood occurring.

Similar studies are now under way to examine whether last year’s deadly Russian heat wave and Pakistan floods — which were part of the same

This May 3, 2010 file photo, shows an aerial view of a flooded neighborhood in Nashville, Tenn. Extreme rainstorms and snowfalls have grown substantially stronger, two studies suggest, with scientists for the first time finding the telltale fingerprints of man-made global warming on downpours that often cause deadly flooding.

weather event — can be scientifically attributed to global warming.

For years scientists, relying on basic physics and climate knowledge, have said global warming would likely cause extremes in temperatures and rainfall. But this is the first time researchers have been able to point to a demonstrable cause-and-effect by using the rigorous and scientifically accepted method of looking for the “fingerprints” of human-caused climate change.

The scientists took all the information that shows an increase in extreme rain and snow events from the 1950s through the 1990s and ran dozens of computer models

numerous times. They put in the effects of greenhouse gases — which come from the burning of fossil fuels — and then ran numerous models without those factors. Only when the greenhouse gases are factored in do the models show a similar increase to what actually happened.

All other natural effects alone don’t produce the jump in extreme rainfall.

Essentially, the computer runs show climate change is the only way to explain what’s happening.

In fact, the computer models underestimated the increase in extreme rain and snow. That is puzzling and could be even more troubling for our future, said

Michael Oppenheimer of Princeton University, who was not part of the study.

Similar fingerprinting studies have found human-caused greenhouse gas emissions triggered changes in more than a dozen other ecological ways: temperatures on land, the ocean’s surface, heat content in the depths of the oceans, temperature extremes, sea level pressure, humidity at ground level and higher in the air, general rainfall amounts, the extent of Arctic sea ice, snowpack levels and timing of runoff in the western United States, Atlantic Ocean salinity, wildfire damage, and the height of the lower atmosphere.

34

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

Classifieds EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

weeklylistings

Great Rate // ► $1 per word minimum 15 words ► $5 for additional graphic Professional Building For Rent

for sale

Good location, near NIB and Courts On Leeward Highway Fully furnished, ready to move in (3,000 sq feet) Ideal for a lawyer, accountant, doctor or architect Tel: 946-4664, 946-4894

Apartment for rent High quality decorative

curtain rails for sale 4 X 1.5m long plus 3 extendable rails 28-48 inches long Call 245 6620

$850 per month One bedroom Richmond Hills Contact 946-4894

Need Help Looking for that Perfect Apartment ?? Call 941-4100 or 2434921. We can assist in finding you Short or Long Term Rentals. Don’t see exactly what you’re looking to Rent. Contact us, we have others!!!

One Bedroom

Leeward Palms House 1 bath 1 bedroom Fully Furnished/ Washer & Dryer Asking Price $850 p/m

Wedding Gown for Sale Size 18W champagne & Beige wedding Dress.

Worn once in good condition Asking $800.00. Call 241-2000

realty

Chalk Sound , Ocean View (Located Before Silly Creek Area) 1 bed 1.5 bath Fully Furnished/ Wrap around deck/ VerySpacious/Washer & Dryer Asking Price $1000 *********************** Royal Diamond Villa 1 bed 1 bath with Balcony Fully Furnished / Ready to Move-in Asking Price $1000 p/m *************************** The Venetian 1 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished/ Upstairs/ Downstairs unit/ Onsite Pool Asking Price: $1200 p/m **************************** GREAT DEAL !!!!

Leeward Palms 1 bed 1 bath duplex Fully Furnished /Washer Asking Price $1300 p/m ALL Utilities Included !!! ****************************** Venetian Road Apartment 1 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished/Very Spacious

GERTRUDE’S GROCERY

CHRIS STUBBS Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Domestic

Worker Housekeeper To work 5 days Contact 946-4398

6515

per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact 241-2866

6505

To work 6 days per week must be trustworthy and reliable. Must be able to work flexible hours. Salary $6.00 per hour.

Asking Price $1250 p/m (Slightly Negotiable) **************************** GRACEBAY STEAL!!!

Trade winds Condo Hotel, Gracebay 1 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished /Washer & Dryer/End Unit Facing Pool/ Asking Price $1200 p/m ************************** TWO BEDROOMS Chalk Sound, Water Front 2 Bed 2 Bath Fully Furnished REDUCED Asking Price $1700 p/m (Negotiable) ************************* Real Steal !!Leeward Palms 2 bedroom 2 baths Fully Furnished Asking Price $1100 p/m **************************** Chalk Sound, Ocean View (Located Before Silly Creek Area) 2 Bed 2 Bath Fully Furnished/Very Spacious/Wrap around Deck Asking Price $1650 p/m ****************************** Grace Bay Townhome -End Unit ( 3 minutes from IGA Gourmet) 2 bedrooms 2 ½ Bath/ Nicely Furnished/Screened Porch with Direct Pool Access Asking Price $ 2400 p/m Juba Sound Apartments Located in Lovely Living Environment!!

2 bed 2 bath Nicely Furnished Asking Price $1400 ************************** Grace Bay Condo Grandview 3rd Floor unit 3 bedroom 3 baths Nicely Furnished Call for More details !!! *************************** The Venetian 2 bedroom 2 bath Fully furnished / Fully Equipped Kitchen/Pool Asking Price $ 1800 p/m ************************** Sunview Town Homes, Grace Bay Road 2 Bed 2.5 Bath with Pool Asking Price $1,600/per month ************************* Long Bay Beach Front 2 bed 1 bath w/ Loft Fully Furnished/ Screened Deck facing Beach Asking $2000 p/m

*********************** Ocean Club Plaza, 2nd Floor Unit, Grace Bay 2 Bed 2.5 Bath, with Pool/Fully Equipped Kitchen Asking Price $2,000/per month ************************* Leeward Landings Townhome 2 bedroom 2 ½ bath Fully Furnished Asking Price $1600 ************************** Long Bay Apartments 2 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished/Washer & Dryer Asking Price $1200 p/m Three- Four Bedrooms ************************* MUST SEEE !!!! Beautiful Home Discovery Bay Canal Front Home 3 bedroom 2.5 bath Spacious Beautifully Furnished/ Fully Equipped kitchen /52” Plasma Televisions Asking Price $2300 p/m Negotiable ************************* Juba Sound Home 3 Bed 2.5 Bath Ocean View, Terrace, Asking Price $2200 REDUCED !! ************************* Low Cost Home, Blue Hills 3 Bed 2 Baths Furnished Central AC/ Washer & Dryer/Dishwasher Asking Price $1,350/per month ************************* Leeward Canal Front Home 4 bedrooms 3.5 baths Spacious/Nicely Furnished Asking Price $4000 p/m

ONE BEDROOM • Cooper Jack, Canal Front cottage, 1 bed, 1 bath, furnished, spectacular southern view, wrap around deck, small dock, loads of room, laundry area. Cistern water to manage cost.

Asking $800 per month negotiable.

• Richmond Hills apt. 1 Bed, 1 bath, washer/dryer, furnished, 2 available parking spots, landscaped. Centrally located Asking $1,000 per month TWO BEDROOM • Chalk Sound Water Front, 2 bed 2 bath, fully furnished with lots of space and storage. Asking $1,500 per month (negotiable) • Grace Bay Town Home, 2 bed 2.5 bath, 2 storey, fully furnished with washer and dryer, central a/c, screened porch and near to Grace Bay amenities. Asking $2,400 per month • Grace Bay, Sunview Town Homes, Two Storey, 2 bed 2.5 bath, Pool and BBQ area on site. Asking $1,600 per month (negotiable) • Longbay House with Loft (Minutes from the beach) 2 bedroom 2 baths Asking $1500 per month (slightly negotiable) THREE AND FOUR BEDROOM • Belglade Home, 3 bed 2 bath, nicely furnished, central a/c, washer and

February 19 - 25, 2011 FAX: (649) 946-4661

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

dryer. Asking $1,100 per month • Hawksbill Town Home, 3 bed 2.5 bath, nicely furnished, a/c, washer dryer, pool on site, parking spaces $2,200 per month • Leeward Home, Canal Front, Two Storey, Brand New, 4 bed 3.5 bath, Spacious and nicely furnished. Asking $4,000 per month. Contact us for possibly more options !!!!

Office: 941-4100 Carolina 231-4461, Natishka 243-4921

vehicles for sale Mac Motors

New Vehicles with Factory Warranty; 2009 FIAT 500 Sport BZ 1.2 2Dr Auto (Bossa Nova White) *248033* - 29,700. 2009 FIAT Panda Dynamic 1.2 Auto (New Orleans Blue) *323248* - 22,900. 2009 FIAT Grande Punto 1.4 Auto (Ambient White) *466162* - 26,500. 2009 FIAT Bravo Dynamic 1.4 Auto (Steel Grey) *196447* - 35,500. 2008 Land Rover Discovery III SE TDV6 (Keswick) *469067* - 68,000. 2008 Dodge Caliber SXT Sport App. 2.0L (Surf Blue) *599952* - 27,000. 2009 Dodge Journey SXT FWD 3.5L (Silver Steel) *535698* - 37,000. 2009 Dodge Durango 4x2 SLT 4.7L V8 (Silver) *703733* - 40,000. 2009 Jeep Patriot Sport 4x2 (White) *186265* - 32,000.

2009 Dodge Dakota SLT 4x4 (Deep Water Blue) *765339* - 35,000.

Certified used vehicles;

2006 Jaguar X-Type Estate Manual Trans, 2.0L Diesel, AVALABLE FOR LEASE - 39,000. 2006 Land Rover Freelander TD4 Atacama Sand 22,500. 2007 Dodge Ram Mega Cab 5.7L V8 4x4 Hemi (Red) Very LOW MILES!!! - 41,000. 2008 Dodge Ram Sport 1500 5.7L V8 Hemi 4x2 (Sunburst) - 36,500

Mac Motors

FULLY FRANCHISED DEALER FOR LAND ROVER, JAGUAR, DODGE, JEEP, CHRYSLER & FIAT SALES / WARRANTY* / SERVICE / DIAGNOSTICS / BODY REPAIRS FREE First Service with New Vehicles Finance available for qualified buyers *Land Rover / Jaguar : 3 Years Factory Warranty *Dodge / Jeep / Chrysler : 2 Years Factory Warranty *Used : 3 Months Warranty on 'Certified Used Vehicle’

for sale 10m 2010 Torch is for sale for $950.

The kite is in very good condition with only one small tear, which was repaired.

Also selling 130cm Momentum for $400.

It comes with new foot-pads and fins.

The board has some scrapes on the bottom. Contact 342-2941

services Earn money now.

Sell Avon 346-1434 / 246-1434

The Flower Girl Bed and Bath Shop Bed and bath sets and Lingeries For more information, call us at 649-9464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com ******************************** We now accept Upholstery jobs.

Have your cushions re-covered at excellent prices Drape fabrics are also in stock For more information, call us at 6499464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@ yahoo.com The Flower Girl Bouquets, Mix and Tropical Arrangements for all occasions Price ranges from $15.00 and up For more information and reservation, call us at 649-9464894 or 6492313788, You may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com *********************** Easter Baskets and Easter Dresses available For more information, call us at 649-9464894 or 6492313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com ********************** Cards for all occasions, Gift Sets for men and women Designer Vases on display.

For more information, call us at 6499464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@ yahoo.com ************************ Fresh and Silk flower Arrangements available for centerpieces And decorations in all sizes ************************* Customized Gift Baskets for her and him…tell us what You want and we’ll do it for you! ************************* Decors and flowers for wedding from ceremony to Personal flowers and all through the reception ************************* Sympathy Wreath and Casket Sprays available in different sizes *************************** Inspirational Gift Items and baskets in different designs On display For more information, call us at 6499464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com

COLASCO

CARO MISSICK

Is looking for a

is looking for a

Labourer To work 5 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact 941-3212

Tile Layer To work 5 days per week. Salary $7.00 per hour.

Contact 245-4918 Deadline for applications is February 25th, 2011

February 19 - 25, 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

ADVERTISE

IN THIS SPACE! ONLY

LABOURER/

$30 PER WEEK

Salary starts at $5.00 per hour. Only Turks Islanders need apply

CALL 946-4664

DRIVER 6519

36

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

February 19 - 25, 2011

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

COMPANY

NOTICE OF SALE

BY PUBLIC AUCTION

ADMINISTRATOR

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.

A local law firm is seeking an highly knowledgeable Company Administrator. The successful candidate must have a minimum of ten years experience in every aspects of corporate management procedures and practices in the TCI including anti-money laundering and compliance procedures. Must have a graduate degree in Business or Finance and must have the knowledge and skill to manage the entire corporate aspect of the firm, including finances and staff, with much experience in international client relations. Experience as an Anti-Money Laundering and Compliance Officer is a must. Extensive knowledge in Bahamian corporate law will be a plus.

Salary will commensurate with qualifications.

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.

LOCATION

Proprietor

Absolute G.B.L Holdings Ltd.

Approximate Area

1.38

Title

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION ARE AVAILABLE BY REQUEST, FROM GARLAND & CO.

Applicants should send their resumes to

6560

info@karammissick.com

before February 28, 2011. Only Belongers need apply.

FAX: (649) 946-4661

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

6509

FIRST GLOBAL INSURANCE BROKERS, LTD. T/A UNITED RELIANCE INSURANCE BROKERS (2008)

First Global Insurance Brokers Limited t/a United Reliance Insurance Brokers (2008) is seeking a qualified individual to fill in the following position of:

UNDERWRITING AND CLAIMS PERSONNEL The ideal candidate should possess the necessary experience and must meet the following qualifications for:

REQUIREMENTS:

- Minimum 15 years experience in the Insurance Industry in Underwriting, Claims and Risk Management in Property, Casualty and Medical - Must have earned Insurance Degree or Bachelor’s Degree (College Graduate) or equivalent - Proficient in oral and written communication - Computer Literate - Good Negotiation Skills - Certified Insurance Practitioner - Must be able to effectively respond to Insurance Companies, Reinsurers, Brokers and Agents - Knowledgeable in the Insurance regulations both Local and Foreign particularly in London Markets - Must have thorough knowledge of the Turks & Caicos Islands Traffic Code - Technical knowledge preferably in Engineering, Electronics and Accounting

OTHER DUTIES

- Must be able to attend to on-call duties especially in emergency situations particularly during Catastrophes Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Applications must be emailed to: paul.mitchell@gkco.com Attn: Managing Director First Global Insurance Brokers Limited P.O. Box 117, Caribbean Place Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Applications must be received by the 4th March 2011

Seven Stars Resort, Grace Bay Is now recruiting positions. Ideal candidates should possess luxury resort experience, be out-going and friendly, with a professional demeanor and must be fluent in English with excellent communication skills, be a team player with a strong work ethic, available for work on public holidays and weekends.

Salaries are based on experience and qualifications. Working hours are flexible.

Server • Suitable candidates must have a minimum of 2 years experience working at a 5 Star resort or restaurant in a lead position • Energetic with excellent customer relations skills • Fluent in English, written and verbal • Previous use of POS and cashier / bank experience

Bartender • Experience: A minimum of 2 years as a Bartender in a busy operation • Possess a professional upbeat attitude while keeping a crowded bar happy, lively and enthusiastic • Extensive knowledge of different types of mixed drinks and cocktails at a high quality • Competent inventory control and cashier skills • Hospitality qualification is desirable • Ability to work under pressure Closing Date : March 4th, 2011 Suitable qualified candidates should apply in writing via email or leave resume with our gate security Monday – Friday 9am-5pm

Management Seven Stars Resort P.O Box 603, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands, British West Indies Email: recruitment@sevenstarsgracebay.com Website: www.sevenstarsgracebay.com Telephone: (649) 333 - 7731 Fax: (649) 941 - 8601

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

ALCIDE CASTAN

Is looking for a

To work 6 days per week. Salary $6.00 Per hour. For more Information Please

Worker

call 232-3595

Contact 246-4769

Domestic

6528

To work 5 days per week.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Painter

Mechanic

Contact 946-5921

Contact 242-3318

Is looking for a

Labourer Labourer

ONLY

$30 PER WEEK CALL 946-4664

6534

Is looking for a

Cosmetologist To work 6 days

per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 341-0451 or 244-4306

6532

IN THIS SPACE!

Contact 243-1253

6531

To work 3 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

KENNETH HALL

To clean yard

Domestic Worker

EUSTACE MUSGROVE

DENISE SMITH Is looking for a

To clean, and do household chores

6546

To work 4 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

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

Contact 244-5211

ISLAND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES Is looking to hire a

Domestic

worker Must be able to work 3 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 243-3337 or 241-5071

M S AND SON CONSTRUCTION

LEOCADIO JIMENEZ GARCIA

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Domestic

Worker To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour.

Contact 241-8795

6543

Please reply with resume, reference and clean police record and driving records and any certification to CBMS Ltd. Call 941-3400

Contact 342-0355

Is looking for

Salary $5.00 per hour. Only Turks Islanders need to apply.

6544

Applicant must be prepared for heavy work, breaking cement bags, loading trucks and stevedoring of cement and gravel, and assisting mechanics as needed. Applicant must prepare to work long hours, evenings and weekends as required.

To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour.

DANZIEL GIBSON

Janitor Labourer

Labourers

Is looking for a

Contact 941-3044

6548

Is looking for a

Applicant must have at least six years experience with concrete equipment, hydraulics and heavy equipment with extensive knowledge of diesel equipment, be able to provide their own tools and must be prepared to work late days, evenings, and weekends as the job dictates.

Needed full-time days and nights. Duties include: pot washing, dishwashing, general cleaning and some prep work. Salary $6.00 per hour.

To work between the hours of 9am -1pm.

Experience required.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 241-5208 or a/c@gmail.com closing date is March 15th, 2011

DANNY BUOY’S

EASY MOBILE CAR WASH

Kitchen Helper

Is seeking to employ a

6547

AGNES SWANN

Two LABORERS needed

ADVERTISE

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

6529

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

37

6541

February 19 - 25, 2011

Labourer

To work 5 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact 243-2700 6530

38

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

February 19 - 25, 2011

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

FAX: (649) 946-4661

VACANCIES

Saltmills Restaurant Ltd

POSITION VACANT

VINO TIEMPO WINE BAR, LOUNGE & CIGAR GARDEN

A busy Restaurant is seeking an applicant for a

is currently seeking the following positions:

Mixologist Position

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.

• 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

• Must work well under pressure and be able to handle long hours • A friendly and professional demeanor must be a team player

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

6508

6507

POSITION AVAILABLE

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.

Director of Finance Reports to the General Manager and the Chief Financial Officer. Supervises all members of the Accounting Department, provides 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.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor of Business, Accounting, Finance or Commerce.

• Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA) qualifications preferred.

• 5 – 10 years experience in hospitality accounting • Excellent knowledge of hotel accounting software(s).

• Knowledge of hotel reservations system(s).

• Knowledge of hotel point of sales system(s).

• Strong IT skills • Negotiation and effective presentation skills

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 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

Send CV and References to: Breaking Waves Management Solutions at bwms@tciway.tc

6516

Career Opportunities

Business Support Supervisor

Interested persons may contact our

NOTICE

Human Resource Manager No later than March 11, 2011 Email: deleria.simms@verandatci.com Or hand deliver to our office at Veranda Resort and Residences Princess Dr. Lower Bight, Providenciales

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.

Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Range Insurance Company, Ltd. (“in Voluntary Liquidation”) Registered No. E9619

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.

Dated the 8th Day of February 2011 Gary Brough, Liquidator, Range Insurance Company, Ltd. 6513

February 19 - 25, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

39 FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Pampered Paws Spa

COYABA RESTAURANT

MAGASANI ATELIER & UPHOLSTERY

is looking for an

Assistant Manager/ Dog Trainer

Is looking for a

Worker

6506

Contact 232-1119 position available immediately

Domestic

Sales Clerk

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

Cleaner

Contact 241-9105

Telephone: 941-8080 6507

To work 3 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. Duties: cleaning floors and windows, dispose of garbage.

PLATINUM SECURITY

MARIE TAYLOR

Grace Bay Suites

THE CRYSTAL & GIFT GALLERY Is seeking to hire a

With sewing experience. Must speak English and Spanish fluently. Salary $5.00 per hour.

6550

Is looking for a

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.

WANTED

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Is accepting applications for:

Domestic

Assistant Manager 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.

Worker

Receptionist

To work 5 days per week. Salary $100.00 per week.

Cleaners

Contact 346-9904

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.

To work full time in the office. 5 days per week. Salary $7.00 per hour.

6549

2 Painters

Please Send your CV’s to: Bernie Gardiner Manger of GBS. Closing Date 28 February 2011

BAYVIEW MOTORS Is currently looking to employ the following positions:

Two Labourers 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.

Applicants must have 5 years painting experience, able to work unsupervised and on weekends as needed.

Required to assist in other areas of construction e.g.

Removal of debris etc. Wage $6.00 per hour apply to Southern Construction Ltd. by February 26th, 2011.

Contact 649-231-6089.

Fax: 649-946-4084

6536

Contact 241-2866

R & C EQUIPMENT Is looking for a

Labourer

To work 5 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact 342-5533

Community Fellowship Centre Accepting applications for

Church Administrator Requirements

• Strong leadership, organizational and administrative skills • Must be a born again believer • Must posses experience and • B.SC in Business Administration/ training in Business Administration Management studies or related or Church Administration field • At least 5 years in an administrative • Must have effective budgeting and accounting skills capacity Suitable applicants may forward resumes addressed to

Please email all application to mariec@bayviewmotors.com Please submit all application between 9am and 5pm Monday – Friday

Bayview Motors Ltd. P.O. Box 619 Leeward Highway, Providenciales 6520

Church Board Community Fellowship Centre, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Tel: 649-941-3484 Fax: 649-941-3482. Email: comassem@tciway.tc

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES CALVIN & LYNN CHASE

Experienced PADI Dive Instructor/Mechanic

@@Must have valid insurance & certification @@Must be a licensed diesel mechanic @@Must have a good personality to work around people @@Flexible hours a must- Holidays & Saturdays & Sundays Required

JOB OPPORTUNITY

MARINE CONSULTANT

Carpenter To work 5 days per week. Salary $400 per week.

6561

Please contact Donna at Caicos Adventures: 941-3346 for interview All applications must be submitted by March 15th, 2011 Salary starts at $350.00 per week

Is looking for a

FAX: (649) 946-4661

Contact 242-9252

Notice Of Sale By

Public Auction Meridian Trust Company Limited as Chargee, pursuant to its charge and the Registered Land Ordinance, hereby gives notice that it will cause to be sold the property listed below

by Public Auction, to be held at the office of Meridian Trust Company, Caribbean Place, and Providenciales at 10.00 a.m. on Friday 4th of March, 2011.

Location

50500/72, Whitby, North Caicos. 6.99 acres of beachfront land 5 lots west of the St Charles resort on Whitby Beach, North Caicos. The subject property enjoys approximately 305 linear foot of beachfront.

Suitable for luxury home or commercial development.

A reserve price will be fixed for the auction.

Title

Absolute

Proprietor

Sail Rock Point Ltd.

Approximate Area

6.99 acres

Meridian Mortgage Corporation Ltd. as Chargee, pursuant to its charge and the Registered Land Ordinance, hereby gives notice that it will cause to be sold the property listed below by Public Auction, to be held at the office of Meridian Trust Company, Caribbean Place, and Providenciales at 10.00 a.m. on Friday 4th of March, 2011.

Location

50500/96, Whitby, North Caicos. 5.0 acres of beachfront land with partially constructed foundation, 2 lots west of the St Charles resort on Whitby Beach, North Caicos. The subject property enjoys approximately 288 linear foot of beachfront. Suitable for luxury home or commercial development. A reserve price will be fixed for the auction.

Title

Absolute

Proprietor

Prickly Pear Investment Company, Ltd.

Approximate Area

5.0 acres

Location

40103/23&24, West, Middle Caicos. 0.71 acres of elevated raw land located at the end of a cul-de-sac in the beautiful Blue Horizon Resort, Middle Caicos.

Parcel 40103/23 comprises 0.34 acres. Parcel 40103/24 comprises 0.37 acres. Stunning sea views.

Just steps away from the secluded beach below. A reserve price will be fixed for the auction.

Title

Absolute

Proprietor

Natures Way Ltd

Approximate Area

0.71 acres

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION ARE AVAILABLE BY REQUEST, FROM MERIDIAN TRUST COMPANY LTD. Meridian House P.O. Box 599, Caribbean Place Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, B.W.I

Tel. (649) 941-3082. Fax (649) 941-3223

Job Responsibilities: @@ Design and implementation of preventative maintenance programs for transportation system @@ Design and implement safety measures for transportation system @@ Managing a cost budget for transportation system @@ Experience Required: @@ Minimum of 10 years experience in marine operations to include: @@ First aid and fire safety @@ Electrical engineering/ mechanical engineering @@ Preventative maintenance and major overhaul of inboard diesel marine engines automobiles @@ Preventative maintenance and repair of gasoline and diesel engine automobiles @@ Training and supervision of staff @@ Managing budgets @@ IT literate with training and experience with Microsoft Office software @@ This position is immediately available based on qualifications and experience salary for this position starts at $48,000.00 per year all applicants will be reviewed however only qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview

WCT LTD. South Side Marina. Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Email: wct@tciway.tc tel: 649-232-4110

Turks & Caicos Banking Company Limited

General Manager

Requirements: - Masters Degree in Finance or equivalent qualification - Minimum of 10 years experience in senior position at a financial institution.

- Knowledge of European Banking practices - Language Skills in French and German - Profound all round knowledge of all sectors of private and commercial banking - Trading and Administration background - Professional written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills - Strong Leadership skills - Effective in organizing management meetings - Human resource management and Board meeting attendance

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

6556

NEEDED FOR DIVE OPERATION

6557

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

February 19 - 25, 2011

ROYAL WEST INDIES RESORT ROYAL WEST INDIES RESORT, is looking for motivated proactive individuals to joins its ‘Resort Team’ and contribute to this growing Condominium Resort. Candidates MUST want to actively participate in creating an excellent and professional guest experience.

POOL AND BEACH ATTENDANT GENERAL MAINTENANCE Requirements: • MUST speak English and the ability to write and read English • Ability to maintain pools and hot tub chemicals and maintenance issues related to same • Some knowledge of water sports equipment • Able to swim.

• Fit and able for heavy lifting • Personality suited for the hotel industry • Must be customer friendly • Willing to work split shifts, holidays and weekends.

• Knowledge of waste water treatment plants • Knowledge of Commercial Laundry Equipment including propane systems • Air Conditioning systems, Fire Alarm systems, Domestic Water systems including Water Heaters • Irrigation systems Wages $6.50/hour

All resumes and applications must be forwarded to:

Royal West Indies Resort P.O. Box 482, Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands You may also fax to: (649)946-5008

6553

40

February 19 - 25, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

TRACY SMITH

Auto Marine Salary $8.50 per hour. Working hours are 8am-5pm.

Contact 649-245-6788

Labourer Is looking for a:-

Must be willing to work six (6) days per week. Must be trustworthy and reliable.

Salary $6.00 per hour. Hours are from 8:00am – 4:00pm. Some extra hours maybe required.

Contact Anthony between the hours of 9:00am – 3:00pm at telephone #946-4536 or Fax: 946-4871

CHARLES TIPTON Is looking for a

Labourer To work 5 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact: 244-7939 Is looking for the following persons on behalf of our clients: Paradise Entertainment, Philip Hawkins

Mason $9.00 per hour

Technician $9.00 per hour

Experience required

Contact 941-8283 6558

EDWIN HERNANDEZ Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Electrician/ Plumber/ Welder

6559

Mechanic To work 3 days per week.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 241-5678

Labourer

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Working hours are from 7am – 4pm.

Security Officer To safe guard clients

lives and properties.

Salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact 241-2866

ADVERTISING DEADLINE FOR ALL ADS IS 5:00 PM WEDNESDAY CALL 946-4664 OR EMAIL tcnews@tciway.tc

Capable of troubleshooting of controls, fire alarm, generators, gas installation, knowledge of welding, residential, commercial and industrial construction and service calls with 5 years experience. Salary $9.00 per hour.

Contact 649-941-4051

"TC Industrial Services is seeking to employ

WELDER Capable trouble shooting of controls, fire alarm, generators, gas installation, knowledge of welding, residential, commercial and industrial construction and service calls. With 5 years experience Salary $9.00/hour.

Ph.#:941-4051

email: tcisimms@yahoo.com"

WAYNE GARDINER

Housekeeper Labourer To work 5 days Contact 346-3918

Contact 245-7611

Is seeking to employ

Is looking for a

per week. Salary $200 per week.

Must be able to work from 8am – 5pm daily. Salary $5.00 per hour.

J & A CONSTRUCTION

TC INDUSTRIAL SERVICES LTD.

DISCOUNT LIQUORS AND WINE CELLAR

C & J Employment

6453

6514

Deadline for application is February 18th, 2011

Handyman

6506

To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour.

Contact 244-2830

On behalf of our clients Southwind Millwork and Dove’s Security is looking for a

Needs a qualified person to fill the position of a

6551

needed

Mechanic

WARD’S CONSULTANCY

6535

Is seeking to employ one

Labourer

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

L.T. C. FISHERIES (1995) LTD.

DESERENE LEWIS

41

To work 3 days per week. Salary $150.00 per week.

Contact 332-0979 6533

TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS HOSPITAL InterHealth Canada (TCI) Ltd requires experienced, flexible and dynamic staff to fill employment opportunities in the Radiology Department for an

MRI/General Radiography Tech, an MRI/CT Tech and a CT / General Tech.

All applicants must be qualified and skilled in general radiography techniques and experience in any of the following would be an asset: • sonography and working with GE ultrasound • fluoroscopic procedures • working in a PACS/RIS environment • ability to work independently with remote support from the radiologist • competent in delivering preliminary examination findings to referrers Radiographers / Radiologic Technologists with a recognized diploma or degree and licensing plus at least three years experience in their chosen discipline are requested to apply by submitting to InterHealth Canada a comprehensive CV detailing your qualifications and experience. This may be sent either by email to pnicholson@interhealthcanada.tc or by fax to 01 649 946 8167.

Salary levels will commence at U$35,000 dependant on qualifications and experience.

Preference will be given to suitably qualified and experienced Belongers

Please ensure that a contact telephone number or email address is included in the application.

Closing date for all applications will be Monday 7th March.

42

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

February 19 - 25, 2011

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

PROVO BEVERAGE

Labourer Is looking for a:-

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

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.

FAX: (649) 946-4661

Call today to advertise

Must be willing to work six (6) days per week must be trustworthy and reliable salary $6.00 per hour hours are from 8:00am – 4:00pm some extra hours maybe required contact Anthony between the hours of 9:00am – 3:00pm at

946-4664

Telephone #946-4536 or Fax: 946-4871

tcnews@tciway.tc

OR EMAIL

VACANCY

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

EXPERIENCED Assistant Manager

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

Is required for the running of programs at the Youth Centre. Must be available to work holidays and weekends.

COOK / SOUS CHEF Must have at least 5 years experience

REQUIREMENTS

Laundry Supervisor

• University degree or Diploma in psychology, counseling, social work or similar field • At least five (5) years experience working within a related field • Computer literate in Microsoft Office programs • Excellent skills of working with children

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

ASSETS

Overnight cleaner

• Administration management or other office experience • Strong written, verbal and communication skills

Must have one year experience in a resort, knowledge of cleaning process and attention to details. $5.00 to $8.00 hourly

Deadline for applications is March 3rd 2011 Belongers only need apply

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

Email your resume to

roxann@tciyouthcentre.tc or contact 331-9602

POOL AND BEACH ATTENDANT

FOR RENT

NAIL TECHNICIAN Must have at least 2 years experience

BEVERAGE MANAGER

Must have at least 3 years experience in a 5 Star environment

Security Agents

Two beautiful houses in Richmond Hill.

Rent reduced to $850 per month.

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.

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

Only professional sneed apply.

Must be certified esthetician and massage therapist, current CPR, minimum 1 year experience in professional spa. Commission based.

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

Telephone: 231-3788

February 19 - 25, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports International

Pacquiao’s a knockout during visit to Congress WASHINGTON (AP) — Having captured just about everything else — including eight world titles and a seat in Congress back home — it was time for Manny Pacquiao to win over the U.S. capital.

The Filipino boxer was escorted to the Senate floor Tuesday morning and was scheduled to meet with President Barack Obama in the afternoon. For a day, at least, it was like old times for the sport: Instead of being investigated on Capitol Hill, it was being celebrated.

“This is an unforgettable moment in my life,” Pacquiao said.

Wearing a suit coat that was a size or two too long for his power-packed arms, Pacquiao roamed the halls of power as the guest of Nevada Sen. Harry Reid, a Democrat and long-ago boxer whose recent re-election was no doubt helped by Pacquiao’s campaign appearances. After Reid and Pacquiao exchanged national flags, Reid was asked how long he would last in his prime if the two exchanged punches.

“About five seconds,” Reid said.

Pacquiao arrived in town by train, wrapping up the press tour for his next fight, against Shane Mosley on May 7 in Las Vegas. The fact that he has arrived on the scene is good news for boxing, or, as Reid put it: “You can become a great athlete and still be a great person.”

Pacquiao was elected representative of the Sarangani province nine months ago in national elections in the Philippines and has shown he plans to take the new job

Filipino Congressman and eight-term world champion boxer Manny Pacquiao smiles during a news conference on Capitol Hill.

as seriously as his boxing.

Among his first initiatives was to explore building the area’s first provincial hospital.

Reid felt compelled to set up Pacquiao’s meeting with Obama because of the Pacquiao’s enthusiastic following in the United States.

“I try not to bother the president,” Reid said, “but I bothered him on this occasion.”

Pacquiao’s every move was shadowed as he walked onto the Capitol grounds with his wife. Promoter Bob Arum said it was reminiscent of the heyday of Muhammad Ali. “He comes at a very fortuitous time,” Arum said.

“If anybody can bring boxing back to the mainstream ... it’s Manny Pacquiao.”

MONTE RESTAURANT Is looking to fill the following positions;

2 Cooks – $7.00 per hour

3 Kitchen Helpers – $5.00 per hour

2 Cleaners – $5.00 per hour

2 Waitresses Contact 649-941-3577

6563

– $6.50 per hour

43

Lance Armstrong officially retiring again CHICAGO (AP) — Lance Armstrong is retiring again — this time for good.

Almost a month after finishing 65th in his last competitive race in Australia, and nearly six years removed from the last of an unprecedented seven straight Tour de France titles, the 39year-old cyclist made clear there is no reset button this time.

“Never say never,” Armstrong laughed at the start of an exclusive interview Tuesday with The Associated Press, then quickly added, “Just kidding.”

His retirement ends a comeback effort that failed to produce an eighth title or diminish talk that performance-enhancing drugs helped his career. The timing has as much to do with his growing responsibilities and family as it does with the physical limitations time has imposed. He’s tired, and tired of being hounded. Armstrong will miss competing — let alone dominating a sport like none before him — but not the 24/7/365 training regimen that made it possible.

“I can’t say I have any regrets. It’s been an excellent ride. I really thought I was going to win another tour,” Armstrong said about his comeback attempt in 2009, four years after his first retirement. “Then I lined up like everybody else and wound up third.

“I have no regrets about last year, either,” he added, despite

Lance Armstrong is retiring for good.

finishing 23rd. “The crashes, the problems with the bike — those were things that were beyond my control.”

Armstrong spoke to the AP in a telephone interview and in a videotaped interview from his office in Austin, Texas.

Armstrong zoomed out of relative obscurity after a life-threatening bout with testicular cancer to win his first tour in 1999, then set about recalibrating both the popularity of his sport and how much influence athletes can wield as advocates for a cause — in his case, on behalf of cancer survivors and researchers worldwide.

International Cycling Union President Pat McQuaid had high praise for Armstrong.

“His contribution to cycling has been enormous, from both

the sporting point of view and his personality. All sports need global icons and he has become a global icon for cycling,” said McQuaid, speaking to The Associated Press by telephone from the Tour of Oman. “The sport of cycling has a lot to be thankful for because of Lance Armstrong.”

Along the way, Armstrong also became one of the most controversial figures in the evolving battle against doping in sports. He claims to be the most-tested athlete on the planet during his career.

Armstrong came back clean every time, and vehemently denies ever using performanceenhancing drugs.

Even so, he remains shadowed by a federal investigation into the sport launched last year following

accusations by former teammate and disgraced 2006 Tour champion Floyd Landis that Armstrong used drugs and taught other riders how to beat testing. Though the probe is continuing, lawyers familiar with the case told the AP recently that any possible indictments are a long way off.

“I can’t control what goes on in regards to the investigation.

That’s why I hire people to help me with that. I try not to let it bother me and just keep rolling right along. I know what I know,” Armstrong said.

“I know what I do and I know what I did. That’s not going to change.”

What won’t change, either, is his tenacious campaigning to raise funds and awareness in the fight against a disease his doctors once believed would keep Armstrong from competing at anything more strenuous than gin rummy.

That was 1996. A year later, he set up the Livestrong Foundation and raised $10,000.

In the intervening years, Armstrong used his story, his celebrity and hard work to sell millions of those ubiquitous plastic yellow wrist bracelets and enlist lawmakers in Texas and global policymakers on the scale of Bill Clinton in the cause.

By the end of last year, despite tough economic times, the foundation had raised nearly $400 million total. But the real heavy lifting may just be beginning.

Watchdog raises concerns about London 2012 budget LONDON (AP) — London Olympic organisers might run short of contingency funds to meet unexpected costs facing the 2012 Games, the British government’s spending watchdog said.

Of the original 2.747 billion pounds ($4.4 billion) of public funds set aside in a contingency budget, 974 million pounds ($1.6 billion) remains.

“There can be no guarantee that the remaining contingency will be sufficient

to cover further unknown risks to the Games,” the National Audit Office warns in its latest report on Olympic preparations.

“The Government Olympic Executive should have plans for how it will meet any requirement for extra funding which cannot be met from within the remaining contingency.”

Almost 80 percent of the construction programme has been completed for the

Olympics, which has an overall public sector budget of 9.298 billion pounds ($14.87 billion).

The NAO also warns that the planned timing for the completion of the aquatics center in July and the athletes’ village in January 2012 is “becoming tight.”

The overall cost of security during the Olympics has increased from 600 million pounds ($962 million) to 757 million pounds ($1.2 billion),

the NAO said.

This is mainly because the government has agreed to provide 282 million pounds ($453 million) from the overall budget to help secure the perimeter of the Olympic Park and other venues during the Games.

Part of the increase is offset by the 125 million pounds ($200 million) of savings on wider security and policing that have already been found.

44

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 19 - 25, 2011

FIFA probes ‘fixing’ of international friendlies GENEVA (AP) — The credibility of international football friendlies has taken another hit, with FIFA investigating claims that four countries were brought to neutral Turkey for matches suspected of being fixed as part of a betting scam.

Officials from Latvia and Bolivia, Estonia and Bulgaria are working with FIFA regarding the doubleheader in Antalya last Wednesday that was arranged by an agency.

Curiously, the games produced seven goals that were all scored from penalties, including one that was ordered to be retaken after the initial spot kick was missed.

The Estonian federation said Monday it had suspicions two weeks earlier, while the Latvian body still does not know the identity of the match officials despite confronting them before kickoff and repeatedly asking the agency for information.

FIFA has asked all four federations for their versions of events to help with its investigation.

It’s not the first time a friendly arranged by an agency has drawn suspicion. Last September, a fake Togo team lost 3-0 to Bahrain in a friendly arranged by a match agent with Singapore connections.

Neither national team filed a complaint, so FIFA didn’t formally investigate suspicions that the host Bahrainis were duped into playing a game they were certain to easily win.

The Togo federation banned one of its coaches for his role in the affair.

In an apparently similar case, a

team posing as Zimbabwe’s first choice admitted throwing matches on its tour of Thailand and Malaysia in December 2009. Players said they received instructions at halftime to ensure the correct results were achieved for the types of wagers that had been staked.

As the sports betting industry becomes more popular and complex, UEFA President Michel Platini has called match-fixing as part of illegal coups the biggest danger facing the game.

In Turkey, the scoring was dictated entirely by referees’ decisions, as Latvia beat Bolivia 2-1 and Estonia and Bulgaria played out a 2-2 draw.

Latvian Football Federation spokesman Martins Hartmanis said the identities of the referees for its game is still unknown despite numerous written and verbal requests to the agency, Footy Sport International.

Hartmanis claimed to have insisted on FIFA-designated referees for the match, but two weeks before the game received the names of three referees — supposedly from the Czech Republic — who weren’t on FIFA’s list of elite international officials.

Before the game, organisers said the referees were from Hungary, but when Latvian officials approached the referees, they claimed to be from Croatia.

“This turned about to be a bit confusing, but it was 15 minutes before kickoff and our general

manager didn’t want to stop the referees from preparing for the game,” Hartmanis said.

Estonian Football Association spokesman Mihkel Uiboleht said suspicions about possible matchfixing arose two weeks before the games, but he declined to give details.

“But these are suspicions that we considered worthy of passing on to necessary authorities,” he said.

The Bolivian federation said it sent a message to FIFA President Sepp Blatter asking for “an exhaustive investigation.”

“We have also filed a complaint with the company that contracted the matches,” federation director Alberto Lozada said.

Bolivia also has canceled a scheduled return visit to Turkey next month for matches against Finland and Bulgaria.

FIFA declined to comment Monday about its investigation.

However, football’s governing body is likely to examine whether any official from Footy Sport International, reportedly based in Thailand, had the required FIFA credential to organize a match between a European and South American team.

Under FIFA rules, national teams are free to choose their opponents for friendlies and play in a neutral countries, but only FIFA-licensed match agents can stage games between teams from different continents.

France beat Austria for team event gold at worlds GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN, Germany (AP) — Cyprien Richard and last-minute substitute Anemone Marmottan helped France edge Austria to win the team event gold medal Wednesday at the World Skiing Championships.

Both teams won two of the four parallel giant slalom races but France took the gold because they had the faster times. Richard’s convincing win over Philipp Schoerghofer proved crucial for the tiebreaker, while Marmottan, who replaced Taina Barioz in the final, beat Michaela Kirchgasser by one-hundredth of a second for a key point.

“It’s great to win the title ahead of Austria, that’s the best way to win it,” said Thomas Fanara, one of the French foursome. “It’s amazing to be a champion with the team.”

Sweden, led by Anja Paerson, beat Italy 4-0 to win the bronze medal.

Paerson won all four of her races, from qualifying to the bronze-medal match.

Alberto Contador, from Spain, is followed by cameramen as he warms up before starting the first stage of the cycling Tour of Algarve Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2011.

Contador back on bike after escaping doping ban FARO, Portugal (AP) — Tour de France champion Alberto Contador was back on his bike at the Tour of the Algarve on Wednesday, a day after escaping a doping ban.

“It’s a big relief not just for me but also for the team and the sponsors,” said Contador, who is competing in his first race with new team Saxo Bank-Sunguard. “The truth is I am really happy to be here.”

Contador, the two-time defending champion of the five-stage race through southern Portugal, wasted no time in getting back to competition after the Spanish Cycling Federation reversed a proposed one-year ban on Tuesday. Contador tested positive for banned substance clenbuterol at last year’s Tour.

The Spanish cyclist was greeted with applause by spectators ahead of the 157.5-kilometre (98-mile) first stage.

Contador, who said he failed the doping test after unintentionally eating contaminated meat, has been cleared to race pending any appeal rulings from the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The International Cycling Union has 30 days from the date of the decision to appeal to CAS, while the World Anti-Doping Agency has an extra 21 days after that.

If Contador does get banned upon appeal, all results incurred over the time he competes would be wiped out.

Contador said he planned to race for his second Giro d’Italia title this year. The 28-year-old Spaniard also plans to race in the Tour of Murcia, Vuelta de Catalunya, Vuelta Castilla Leon and another classic before the Giro in May. Any possible appeals process could drag until June, with the Tour starting on July 2.

Contador hasn’t raced since winning his third Tour title last July.

Ronaldo to help promote 2014 WCup in Brazil

Sweden’s Anja Paerson celebrates after winning a run during the Nations Team event at the Alpine World Skiing Championships in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany, Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2011. (AP Photo/Matthias Schrader)

Paerson now has 19 medals from the Olympics and world championships, one short of the

record held by Kjetil Andre Aamodt of Norway. Paerson could equal the mark in Thursday’s giant slalom.

SAO PAULO (AP) — Recently retired striker Ronaldo will help promote the city of Sao Paulo ahead of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Two days after announcing his retirement from football, Ronaldo said he has accepted an offer from Sao Paulo state Gov. Geraldo Alckmin to become a special member of the city’s World Cup organizing committee.

He said “it will be an honor” to help Sao Paulo create the best venues among the 12 host cities for the 2014 tournament.

Wednesday’s announcement came on the same day the former striker was honored by the governor with a Medal of Merits for Sports.

The 34-year-old Ronaldo ended an 18-year career on Monday saying

Brazil´s retired soccer player Ronaldo attends an event in his honor at the Soccer Museum in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

he couldn’t stay fit anymore. He said he will remain active with the sports marketing agency he owns.

February 19 - 25, 2011

Sports International

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Arsenal, Shakhtar Donetsk win in Champions League LONDON (AP) — Arsenal rallied in the second half to beat Spanish giant Barcelona 2-1 in a thrilling first-leg match in the last 16 of the Champions League and three Brazilians scored for Shakhtar Donetsk in its 3-2 victory in Roma.

Russia captain Andrey Arshavin came off the bench and capped a flowing length-of-the-field move with the winner for Arsenal in the 83rd minute of a gripping game at Emirates Stadium.

Netherlands forward Robin van Persie’s 78th-minute volley had cancelled out David Villa’s first-half opener for Barcelona, which will still be held by many as the favorite ahead of the second leg on March 8.

“The game promised a lot and it fulfilled that expectation,” Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said. “It was a special night. We kept resilient and strong. I am very proud of my team.”

Shakhtar trio Jadson, Douglas Costa and Luiz Adriano scored in the space of 13 minutes at the end of the first half to cancel out Simone Perotta’s opener for Roma in the

Italian capital.

France forward Jeremy Menez’s second-half goal gave Roma some hope but it was another disappointing Champions League night for Italy, with Serie A leader AC Milan losing 1-0 to Tottenham at the San Siro on Tuesday.

“We are a good team and we played well,” Shakhtar coach Mircea Lucescu said.

The Arsenal-Barcelona match, featuring two of the most pleasingon-the-eye teams in European football, lived up to its pre-game billing.

Just like last season’s quarterfinal first leg between the two sides at the Emirates, which finished 2-2, the Spanish champions grabbed a precious away goal and were a class above the hosts in the first half. The passing of midfield triumvirate of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets was often sublime.

But the match turned after Villa was substituted in the 68th and Arsenal’s two late goals puts it in the driving seat to make the quarterfinals.

Determined Sarwan wins back place for West Indies COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP) — Ramnaresh Sarwan never thought of quitting playing for the West Indies at the World Cup, even after selectors dropped the middle-order batsman.

“No, no, no, not at all,” said a perspiring Sarwan on Monday after an intense batting practice session at the R. Premadasa Stadium in humid conditions.

“I believed I have a lot of cricket left in me and hopefully I can contribute more to West Indies cricket.”

In his preparations for the tournament, Sarwan hit two half centuries in a limited-overs series against Sri Lanka earlier this month and followed up with a century against Kenya in a warm-up match over the weekend.

It is a far cry from last November, when the 30-year-old batsman from Guyana was dropped for the test series against Sri Lanka for what the West Indies Cricket Board described as an indifferent attitude to fitness.

“Every time you are not representing West Indies (it) is disheartening and those lessons are behind me,” he said. “Now it’s important that we try and concentrate what we have to do here as a team.”

West Indies is expected to battle it out with Bangladesh for one of the four quarterfinals places from Group B which also features Australia, India, England, Ireland and Netherlands.

Last week, Bangladesh moved to No. 8 in the one-day international rankings, while the 1975 and 1979

Arsenal’s Laurent Koscielny, left, challenges for the ball with Barcelona’s Pedro Rodriguez during a Champions League, round of 16, first leg soccer match at Arsenal’s Emirates stadium in London, Wednesday, Feb., 16, 2011.(AP Photo/Bogdan Maran)

“They are the best side in football’s history, in my opinion,” said Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas. “It’s a nice victory but that’s all. If we show it here and not in the Camp Nou, it is nothing for us.”

Villa put Barcelona ahead when he beat the offside trap running onto Argentina star Lionel Messi’s through-ball before calmly stroking his finish between the legs of goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.

Messi had a goal disallowed for offside in the 38th and missed a sitter when one on one with Szczesny in the 15th. Further chances came and went for Pedro and Villa.

Young England midfielder Jack

Wilshere, Arsenal’s best player on the night, drove the team forward in the second half and Pep Guardiola’s decision to take Villa off for Seydou Keita — indicating the Barca coach was happy with a 1-0 win — proved to be a turning point.

Van Persie ran onto Gael Clichy’s pass and beat Valdes at his near post with a fierce volley, with the goalkeeper seemingly expecting a cross. Arshavin completed the comeback by finishing off a team move involving Wilshere, Fabregas and Samir Nasri, curling a finish home from 20 yards past the unsighted Valdes.

“I think we more or less controlled

the game and we just need to create the chances we did tonight in the Camp Nou and then take them,” Guardiola said. “Yes we have lost but we still have the second leg.”

Centre back Gerard Pique picked up a booking for Barcelona, meaning he will miss the return leg.

Shakhtar, currently in the middle of a three-month winter break, hadn’t played a competitive match since Dec. 8 but it didn’t show against a Roma side which is struggling in eighth place in the Italian league after two straight defeats.

The hosts went in front when Perotta headed home from close range a deep cross by Rodrigo Taddei, yet that only served to spark Shakhtar into life.

Less than 60 seconds later, the Ukrainian side was level, Brazil midfielder Jadson’s 25-yard shot from a central position taking a couple of deflections before finding its way past Alexander Doni.

Shakhtar’s second was much more pleasing on the eye, Douglas Costa picking the ball up on the right flank, cutting inside and curling a superb shot into the corner from outside the area.

Comical defending led to the third in the 41st. John Arne Riise lost his footing to allow Costa to race through and his low ball across the box was sidefooted in by Luiz Adriano.

Menez’s 20-yarder reduced the deficit in the 61st but Shakhtar has a major advantage going into the return match.

“We weren’t favorite going into the first leg and we certainly aren’t the favorite going into the second,” Ranieri said.

Judge tosses Beckham libel suit against magazine West Indies’ batsman Ramnaresh Sarwan plays a shot during the World Cup warm-up cricket match against Kenya at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Saturday, Feb. 12, 2011. (AP Photo/ Eranga Jayawardena).

world champion West Indies slipped to its all-time low in ninth place — prompting plenty of discussion about its fall from grace.

“We are not too concerned what people say,” Sarwan said.

“We are focussed on what we have to do... at the moment we can’t control what people want to say about us. Our focus is first to play well as a team (and) I’m sure if we do that everything else will take care of itself.”

Despite losing both the test and one-day series to Sri Lanka, Sarwan said his team had got a fair idea about the slow wickets of the subcontinent.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A federal judge on Monday dismissed David Beckham’s libel and slander lawsuit against In Touch magazine over a story that claimed he cheated on his wife with a prostitute.

Beckham’s attorney, Richard B. Kendall, vowed to appeal the ruling and disprove the celebrity tabloid’s claims about the international soccer star, who is married to a former Spice Girl.

U.S. District Judge Manuel Real said in his ruling that Beckham is a public figure and his attorneys hadn’t shown any evidence In Touch published the story with malice.

He also said that allegations of any infidelity by Beckham would be of interest to the public.

Elizabeth McNamara, who represented In Touch’s owner Bauer Publishing Co., said the magazine did everything possible to corroborate details from the prostitute’s on-therecord interview. She told Real that the woman’s account was “entirely consistent with Mr. Beckham’s reputation as a serial philanderer.”

The magazine has not retracted

Beckham was accused by a magazine of cheating on his wife with a prostitute, a claim he denies.

the story.

Beckham’s camp continued to deny and attack In Touch’s story, and said they had already won a judgment over the report.

“We have already won a court ruling in Germany and are awaiting damages,” Beckham spokesman Jeff Raymond said in a statement.

“Unfortunately, the U.S. legal system requires us to show that the magazine acted maliciously. Any

knowledgeable person knows this story not to be true, and we will continue to fight this in court and the decision will be appealed.”

Beckham sued In Touch in September and was seeking $25 million. The Los Angeles Galaxy star argued in a court filing in January that he was visiting his ailing father in London during one of the alleged trysts with the purported call girl Irma Nici.

Kendall said a basic investigation by the magazine would have shown that Beckham was elsewhere when the alleged trysts occurred. He asked the judge to allow the case to proceed so that he could conduct depositions that would bolster Beckham’s case, but Real refused.

“We were left with two hands tied behind our back for the purposes of this motion,” Kendall said after the hearing.

He said In Touch had taken specific steps to block its story from being seen in Beckham’s native England, where Kendall said libel laws would have resulted in a quicker resolution to the case in the soccer star’s favor.

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February 19 - 25, 2011

Sports National Provo Hockey League:

Dragons end regular season on top THE COCO Bistro Dragons ended the regular season of the Provo Hockey League Mini-Division half game ahead of the Grace Bay Car Rentals and Sales Owls.

The Dragons finished with 11 wins and a tie compared to the Owls’ 11 wins also in 16 games.

Third place in the division belongs to the Gansevoort Gators who just registered a single win and a tie in their allotted amount of matches.

CAMPELL’S DOMINANCE Trailing the Owls, who had dominated most of the season, the Dragons needed a big final day last Saturday at the Graceway Sports Centre. In

the first game Orrin Campbell blew fire against the Gators by scoring all six goals in his side’s 6-3 victory.

Dylan Ayer and Ronin Mclaren finished with two and one goals each, while Bradley Ayer played his part in goal.

Campbell had another big performance when he again scored six goals, this time he did it against the Owls in an 8-6 victory. Jamie Gray assisted with two goals. For the Owls Sebastian Turbyfield finished with four goals and an assist while Javed Shearer added two and one assist.

Campbell might have ended with more goals if not for a relatively good

Orrin Campbell made 12 goals in two games to carry the Dragons on top of the points table.

performance between the uprights by Owl’s keeper Zoe Diotte-Joly.

Junior Rugby:

Late try not enough to save Storm A LATE diving try by D’Angelo Hall wasn’t enough to steady the ship for the Storm against the Warriors in a highly entertaining match of the TCIRFU organised Junior Rugby Programme last Saturday at the National Stadium.

The Warriors took an early lead through two tries by Andrew Seymour. Seymour ran from deep for

his second try and took a pass at pace from Joey Ewing to race through the Storm’s defense. RJ Harvey showed good timing in intercepting a Keishawn Smith pass and running the length of the pitch for a try. LJ Outten sealed the Warrior’s dominance of the opening stages with a good individual effort.

Smith made up for his earlier

error when he gathered a Warriors kick and used the tight space down the touchline to breach the stingy Warrior defence. The late surge by the Storm continued with Franco Mompremier offloading just before the tackle to unleash Hall into the corner for a consolatory try.

The man-of-the-match award went to RJ Harvey.

Gabriel Diotte-Joly explosiveness on court kept the Sharks undefeated throughout the regular season.

Sharks end regular season unbeaten THE SANDS/the Palms Sharks ended the regular season of the Provo Hockey League with the joy of never been beaten in the Bantam Division. The dominant team finished with 12 wins in 16 games (four ties).

The Star Foundation Lightning ended their regular season in second place with eight wins and four draws in 16 games, while the Saunders and Co. Hurricanes won a single game in 16 played.

In the last day of the regular season the Lightning defeated the Hurricanes 8-4 after Ricardo Valcin scored three times and made an assist.

Liam Delancy supported with two goals while Cole Nickson had two goals and an assist and Livingston Ferdinand one goal and an assist.

For the Hurricanes Kennon Higgs finished with three goals and Javiera Bovell one goal and an assist.

Flames engulfed the Hurricanes in the final game of the day after a 4-0 victory. Justin Hagan and Gabriel Diotte-Joly finished with two goals each. Senga Burbaker completed her third shutout for the season after some great saves.

In the TCBC (Midget Division) the Flames and the Pirates drew 9-9.

Josh for Sports

Fifth Street dream in retrospect “I CALL Dr. Pacheco my playboy doctor because he is always going to the big fights and lives in a big house, paints pictures and has nice cars, but he is really my boxing doctor. That is something he really knowing about—fighters.”

Muhammad Ali said that his trainer Angelo Dundee first took him to see “Doc” when he was starting out in Miami.

He said that Dr. Pacheco had a little office in the heart of the ghetto and that he was the only “White man” in that area helping poor people and fighters.

Ali said that Dr. Pacheco helped him when he only had a few profights and never took anything from him. He said that the Doc never charged money from any fighter.

Ali felt that he and the Doc shared a common passion for helping people when they needed help.

When Ali became world champion he paid the Doc, but the Doc never asked to be paid.

Ali said that the Doc helped him throughout his fighting career. He

took care of his cracked ribs when he fought Quarry in Atlanta while he arranged everything in San Diego when Norton broke Ali’s jaw.

Also during Ali’s comeback bid Doc treated his hands so that he could punch without them hurting.

Actually Doc worked in Ali’s corner ever since the first Liston fight. Ali said that it was nice to know he had a doctor in his corner who knew fighters as well as fight medicine.

Ali not only made the Doc famous, but he made him a good friend.

FIFTH STREET GYM According to the book “Fight Doctor” the last perfect example of a boxing gym was located above the drugstore at the corner of Washington Avenue and Fifth Street in the South Beach Ghetto of Miami Beach. This gym had action in the form of fighters in all stages of their careers preparing for battle—all were getting ready to step into harm’s way.

Gym activities depended upon

By Joshua Gardiner fight activities. In Miami Beach the fighters were fortunate to have the services of the last dynamo of boxing promoters Chris Dundee. Age could not wither him nor could custom stale his infinite variety of fight cards built from zero talent.

He developed fight cards from what he had and he built local fighters into international attractions.

For many years Dundee had patched together fight cards, fought, cajoled, blackmailed, threatened, conned and

convinced fighters to fight for him for short breaks. The result was that of developing some truly great fight nights in Miami Beach.

Dundee had some mediocre ones as well, but mainly he had above par fights which kept the Fifth Street Gym alive and well.

The gym looked as if it was built as a set for a bad boxing movie. First it was up a flight of stairs over the drugstore.

The stairs alone were worth the trip if you were a lover of decayed wood; not slightly decayed, but generations old termite affected wood.

The stairway was lit by a solitary bulb of a 15-watt variety. The light could hardly be described as blinding.

The entranceway was guarded by a gnome. The price of admission was 50c and that comprised of part of Dundee’s salary. So he was more than alert in letting the “mud turtles” and freeloaders in.

There are literally thousands of stories of Emmet (the Great) Sullivan—Sully to his friends. He was a refugee of the cold and harsh

life of the New York jungles.

He was stooped over and virtually toothless. His clothes hung on him like Julius Caesar’s toga fitted him after several wayward senators took their best shots. His lifeless cigar was pushed to the corner of his mouth and brown dribbles of tobacco laden saliva coursed down his withered jowl into his stained collar.

Sully’s main preoccupation was that someone would sneak by him without paying the tab of four bits (50c). Esquire writer Wilfred Sheed assigned to do the text on a picture book of Ali tried to get by him by airily murmuring: “Press yea, press your pants... come up with the four bits mud turtle”. Sully would not relent. Faced with so formidable an adversary, Wilfred caved and coughed up the four bits, which was another first for the Fifth Street Hall of Fame.

Elisaa Obed the Bahamian World Champion, Kid Chocolate from Cuba and numerous other world champions evolved from the Fifth Street Gym.

February 19 - 25, 2011

Garvin Bruno played his part with both bat and ball to lead the lawmen to victory in the Monster Energy Drink T20 cricket final.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

47

Jessie Alexander’s fourwicket haul was not enough to stop the lawmen.

Monster Energy Drink T20 final:

Bruno leads Police to victory GARVIN Bruno made his mark with the bat and then took the ball to spin Police to an overall victory in the final of the Monster Energy Drink sponsored T20 cricket competition against favourites the Beaches.

Batting first it was Bruno, the Police captain, who weathered the storm after his team suffered a batting collapse. The lawmen were routed for 156 in 17.1 overs; but Bruno, who made 45 (7X4s and 1X6) and Marcus Charlemagne, who supported with 41 (3X4s, 3X6s), added sanity to the innings.

Beaches, who were undefeated prior to the championship game, sensed victory given that Jessie Alexander and Stephen Robinson

did the damage with the ball.

Alexander nabbed 4-14 from 3.4 overs while Robinson was equally impressive with 4-21 from three overs.

Needing under eight runs per over, Beaches with their big hitters, took to the crease, but it was Bruno and Damian St. Ange who sent them back disappointed.

Bruno took 4-24 from four overs, while St. Ange nabbed 2-15 from 3.4 overs to restrict Beaches for 143 from 18.4 overs. Ricardo Brown played a ruthless innings of 44 runs.

He struck five sixes and a solitary four but even with a supporting score of 24 from Anthony McKnight it was not enough for the competition favourites.

CARIFTA Silver Medallist Ifeanyi Otuonye and TCI’s fastest youngster Delano Williams have done their Jamaican school, Munro College, proud.

Milo Western Relays:

Williams and Otuonye lead record-breaking 4X200M feat THE world’s best time in Juniors 4X200M relay belongs to Munro College, but it was two of TCI’s athletes who contributed to the feat.

The 33rd staging of the Milo Western Relays at the Montego Bay Sports Complex at Catherine Hall in Jamaica on Saturday last, was the event that saw Munro College breaking a six-year-old meet record.

The school’s relay Class One team, which included TCI’s Ifeanyi Otuonye and Delano Williams running the first

and second legs respectively, erased the mark of 1:26.32 set in 2006 by Kingston College and made a new mark of 1:25.67.

Williams, speaking from Jamaica, told the Weekly News that the school was very impressed with the record, but the officials had more to celebrate when they received a call from the world body stating that the time was the fastest for the year in the junior division.

The athletes brought their ‘A’

game to the relays since in the 4X100M they bettered a 2008 record of 41.09s, despite finishing second to the St. Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS).

STETHS clocked 40.12s while Munro College who was anchored

by Williams ended in 40.14s.

Former 100m world record holder Asafa Powell was the highlight of the event and he and his teammates made the world’s fastest time for 2011 (38.56s) in the 4X100M relay.

Net Rockers FC beaten in last WFL game – Cox scores five for Revolution FC THE AFC Hurricanes spoiled what would have been a perfect run by the Net Rockers Football Club when they handed them a defeat in the last game of the Women’s Football League.

Net Rockers FC easily won the league, but a win last Sunday would have given them an unbeaten record this season. Even without achieving that record, the current champions had a remarkable run this football year, from a third place position last

season to dominant victors this time round.

The Hurricanes finished in second place while the Revolution FC, who handed former champions the AFC Strikers a 7-0 defeat, settled for third place in the four-team competition.

Kadine Delphine scored her fourth goal of the season late in the game to carry the Hurricanes to victory.

Chances in the clash were few and it always looked possible that one goal would decide matters.

Gerlie Azemard came close to scoring for the Net Rockers FC and Delphine looked dangerous for the Hurricanes, but for most of the game both teams were on top defensively.

In the Revolution FC’s victory Jancilia Cox produced a virtuoso performance. She led the way with five goals and became the first female player to score that many in a game since Angel Campbell in 2009.

Barbara Anderson and Gillian Vernice added the other goals.

Jancilia Cox scored five goals against the AFC Strikers.

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February 19 - 25, 2011