Weekly News Volume 29 | No. 04 | January 24 - 30, 2015
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Turks and Caicos
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Skippings
is back! Former pdm Leader forms new party 5 PAGE
Force remembers murdered police officer
A remembrance service for Constable Prince Smith 10 years after his death
Independent PAGE 4 probe into Gov’t’s financial management
Olint boss released from Her Majesty’s Prison PAGE 7
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Jamaican PAGE 8 producers visit TCI on trade mission
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
January 24 - 30, 2015
January 24 - 30, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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Independent probe into Gov’t’s financial management FOR two weeks this month an independent assessor is closely examining the Government’s handling of public cash. From Monday (January 19) John Wiggins began using an international framework to review the competency of TCIG’s financial management systems. By the end of March the TCI should have a published rating which can be used to compare it to other countries. In a press release on Wednesday (January 21) Minister of Finance Washington Misick said: “This assessment is an important step in our continuing work to develop and improve our public financial management systems. “In addition to demonstrating to our population, businesses and investors that we are working hard to improve our public finances. “Our latest assessment rating, which we will publish at the end of March 2015 will allow the TCI to be rated against other countries in an independent, internationally recognised and objective manner.” Wiggins, a public expenditure and financial accountability (PEFA) assessor, will look at public expenditure, procurement and accountability and rate it against the country’s last report in 2011. During his visit he will meet with the Minister of Finance and his Permanent Secretary, the Chief Financial Officer and the Clerk of the House of Assembly. He will also liaise with officials from the Treasury, Budget and Procurement Offices, internal and
external audit, the Revenue Control Unit and Customs, and the TCI Chambers of Commerce. Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, Leader of the Opposition and chair of the Public Accounts Committee, said she was unaware of the visit and had not been invited to speak with Wiggins. “I think it is a useful exercise but it’s important to make sure that all the persons involved in providing oversight and the management of accounts be interviewed and allowed to make a contribution to the report.”
She added that she would like to see improvements all around as a result of the investigation. The PEFA framework was created as a high level analytical instrument which consists of a set of 31 indicators and a supporting public financial management performance report. Drawing on established international standards and codes, and other commonly recognised good practice, it forms part of the strengthened approach to supporting public financial management reform. The aim of PEFA is to use a single
assessment framework in all the countries in which it works allowing taxpayers and investors to be able to better gauge the effectiveness of its pubic finances. It is funded by the European Union’s EDF10 programme. PEFA works in collaboration with other international development agencies, including UK Aid, and other international institutions and selected representatives from developing country governments. Last year Auditor General Anand Heeraman of the National
Audit Office (NAO) led a lengthy assessment into the Government’s finances along with four auditors and four assistant auditors. He produced the ‘Auditor General’s Report on the 2012/2013 TCIG Financial Statements’ which was laid before the House of Assembly before being referred to the Public Accounts Committee. The paper, dated March 19, 2014, highlighted several areas of material weakness and significant deficiencies with the Government’s financial handling.
Integrity Commission to review airport land dispute BY DELANA ISLES THE DISPUTE involving the land that the recently commissioned fixed based operations (FBO) sits on is before the TCI Integrity Commission for scrutiny, very reliable sources have informed the Weekly News. However, both the Director of the Commission, Eugene Otuonye and the Chief Investigator, Simon Baker declined to comment on the matter when contacted this past week. “At this point I have no comment to make on the matter as it would not be appropriate for me to comment. “These are on-going proceedings,” Baker stated; however he did say that he knew what the matter is. The director would only say that he did not have any comment to make “at this time”.
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 Rebecca Bird - News Editor Delana Isles - Senior Reporter Daisy Handfield - Staff Reporter Faizool Deo - Sports Editor (At Large) Cord Garrido-Lowe - Graphics Consultant (At Large) Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams - Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com Follow us on: Facebook: facebook.com/tcweeklynews Twitter: twitter.com/tcweeklynews1
When contacted for a comment, the Governor’s office stated: “He (Governor) is well aware of the dispute and hopes that it can be resolved satisfactorily without damaging the Turks and Caicos’ reputation for excellent, world class facilities for tourists.” Last week Friday (January 16), the media was excluded from a hearing regarding the land dispute that was heard before the Chief Justice, Margaret Ramsay-Hale. At that hearing, the Provo Air Centre filed for leave to apply to the court for a judicial review into decisions taken by the TCI Airport Authority (TCIAA) and/or the Government to lease certain Crown land to M Aviation for an FBO at Providenciales International Airport. The Weekly News learned that the Integrity Commission has become involved in the dispute and investigators are looking into the matter. The dispute is over land initially granted to two Belongers – Shaun Malcolm and Joshua Harvey – by former Governor Gordon Wetherell in May 2011. The two men had at the time of the grant, entered into an agreement with the principals behind M Aviation – Mortimer Sackler and Michel Neutelings, both of Amanyara Resort - for the operation of an FBO at the airport. The application before the court alleges that the TCIAA and/or the Government in, or about, 2011 identified a volume of land on the south side of Providenciales International Airport for compulsory acquisition for the purpose of public use. The land is said to have been acquired compulsorily on the basis that it was urgently needed for the airport extension. Provo Air Centre further argues that the land was actually for a commercial venture and not for public use nor as an urgent part of the airport expansion. It has been alleged that the
FILE PHOTO: The new FBO under construction
commercial lease registered on January 3, 2012, and varied in March 2013, for the land was procedurally improper and beyond the powers of the TCIAA under the Airport Authority Ordinance 2009. The air centre also alleges that there was an absence of TCIAA board approval; non-compliance with section six of the TCIAA Ordinance 2009; an absence of commercial terms; failure to take into account relevant consideration or absence of proper inquiry; an absence of Belonger participation; improper purpose; and procedural unfairness. The company also claims that the decision by the TCIAA to dispose of the land in the fashion it did amounts to a denial of natural justice. They are thereby seeking an extension of time for the judicial review to be conducted, as certain facts regarding the acquisition of the land only became exposed recently and were only known within the past several weeks since the initial filing
of the application on November 26 last year. Provo Air Centre is also seeking an interim order that the TCIAA and/ or the Government cannot take any further steps to facilitate the FBO’s development on the subject of Crown lands until a final determination of the claim or an order by the court. They would also like the court to quash the decision by the TCIAA and or the Government to grant the land to the interested parties. The company would also like the court to order that the TCIAA and/or the Government should give Provo Air Centre and all interested parties an opportunity to make representation on the lease subject to Crown lands under the Airport Authority Ordinance 2009. The company is seeking, alternatively, for the court to rule that the commercial lease for land and the decision to support the FBO are illegal and beyond the power of the TCIAA in the use of public land from a compulsory acquisition.
January 24 - 30, 2015
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Skippings forms new party to contest 2016 elections BY DELANA ISLES OSWALD SKIPPINGS, former Chief Minister and leader of the PDM, has signalled his intention to compete in the 2016 general elections with the formation of a new and independent alliance. He told the Weekly News on Wednesday (January 22) that he is putting together a cadre of independent minded people who have the country at heart and who are committed to people and not party. The former PDM leader first announced his plans to form his own political movement on a local radio programme last week. He told this publication that the party would be comprised of people drawn from the PDM, the PPP as well as the governing PNP parties. “Our intention is to contest the election – we can do that as an independent group collectively and if it becomes necessary we will form a party,” he said. No names have been disclosed yet, but Skippings assured that many people from the three parties have expressed concerns to him and a willingness to join to form an independent party. “That is already in progress, people from the two parties and the PPP as well,” he confirmed. The former Chief Minister said his decision to form the party is not for selfish reasons, as many people have called on him to do something to help the people of the country. “I was called on and called out by a whole lot of people who are hurting because we have all lost ground and we have lost our country and there seems to be no representation.” He stated that it is definitely not a problem to find supporters or candidates for the new party, given
the outcry. The as yet unnamed party will be contesting nationwide, and according to Skippings, the intention is to form a government of the people, for the people and by the people. He added: “It’s not about me or not about one person but it’s about the entire nation.” He feels strongly that the current Government and others in a position to make a difference for the people are sitting down on the job and turning a blind eye. “We have a problem now where there is too much effort to sell these political parties and no effort at all to save the country and the people; and so we need something to trust now. “We want people who really intend to represent the people and the country without fear and without compromise.” ISSUES The issues that are going to be tackled, according to Skippings, are those that people are crying out about on a daily basis - unemployment, border control, equal pay, minimum wage, youth affairs and many other things that will be addressed as a matter of urgency. “The youths especially are totally abandoned and these are the issues I want to tackle in my agenda.” He stated: “We have lost our country, so it is all about taking our country back so that the people have true representation and will benefit from what the country has to offer as opposed to the situation now where everybody else is benefitting except Turks and Caicos Islanders. “We are not third class citizens, we have been reduced to no class and that is no longer acceptable.” He promised that the public would be hearing a lot more from him and
the other representatives who will be announced in due course. He also promised a public rally to launch the party sometime in February, radio and television appearances and a number of other promotional blitzes. “For those who have lost hope, we can do it, together we can do it. If we unite as a people we can save our country as bad as it is now,” he said. Asked if he intends to campaign for the post of Premier, he noted that this will be determined once he has put together the coalition group to save the country. Twice elected as Chief Minister of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Skippings is no stranger to the political arena, and has a wellestablished record as a strong and experienced political opponent. His first stint as Chief Minister was from June 19, 1980, to November 1980 and then again from
Former leader of the PDM, Oswald Skippings forms his own party
March 3, 1988, to April 1991. He was preceded by James Alexander George Smith (JAGS) McCartney and succeeded by Norman Saunders when he won in 1980. Before his 1988 to 1991 rule, he was preceded by the advisory council (interim government) when the post was suspended, and then succeeded by Washington Misick. Skippings became the youngest member of a Caribbean government ever when he was first elected to the TCI legislature in 1976 at the age of 22. He later became the youngest leader of a Caribbean government when he became Chief Minister in 1980 at the age of 26. In July 2012, he was re-elected
as leader of the People's Democratic Movement, however later that year (December 15) he was voted out after the party lost the elections to the PNP. He has served several times as a minister and remains to date the longest serving parliamentary member under the ministerial government. He is a former Minister of Health and Education as a well as Minister of Tourism and Immigration. He is the longest serving Minister of Tourism (a post that has only been recently returned to the current Cabinet) and is credited with the successful negotiations of major airlines to the TCI’s shores and other outstanding achievements in tourism.
New budget to provide for District Commissioners
CABINET has approved the budget structure for the management and operation of District Commissioners offices in four family islands. The move, announced by Premier Rufus Ewing on Thursday (January 22), is in line with Government’s long-term vision to strengthen the role of District Commissioners and to establish effective local government across the Islands. The islands named are Salt Cay,
South Caicos, North Caicos and Middle Caicos. “This restructuring involves the creation of a cause centre for each of those of the islands where the District Commissioner there will be given additional responsibilities for the management of those islands as a department managing their own budget,” he told the media during a press conference at the Hilly Ewing building. The commissioners will be
responsible for things such as street cleaning, maintenance of buildings and drains, and other small works that are conducted on those islands on a daily basis to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of performance in those islands, Ewing advised. The new structure will be in the upcoming budget which will also include funding for the establishment of a district council, he added.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
January 24 - 30, 2015
A Weekly News column that puts you on the spot for your opinions on the issues of the day
Business licences IT IS Government’s intention to significantly reduce business licence fees, according to Minister of Finance Washington Misick. This is welcome news for the business community particularly those looking to start up new companies. However the cuts will reduce the Government’s income by several million dollars a year. Do you think the reductions will help new and current businesses? Can the Government afford to cut business licence fees?
No red tape
I agree with the minister and I think he needs to take it further by cutting the red tape that hinders more people starting businesses here. I think the way forward for success and economic prosperity for the Turks and Caicos Islands is to embrace and encourage new business. Welcome and support outside investment (as long as it is legal and adheres to the long term strategy for the growth of the Islands) and we can all benefit from the jobs and prosperity it creates.
Absurd tribunal
Any reduction in business licence fees will be welcomed - by new and existing businesses alike. But the question remains as to how Government intends to replace the lost business licence revenue? With any taxation of professional and business services having gone out the window with value added tax, it’s not going to come from there. Some additional revenue will accrue from
broadening the base of businesses now subject to the 12 percent tax, but the bulk of this extra tax is paid by our tourists, and here we go sticking it to them yet again! The surest way to generate greater business activity, and thus greater income all around, is to create a business-friendly environment, and the best initiatives in this direction are to simplify and speed up the business licensing process, and severely overhaul (or eliminate) the absurd Labour Tribunal that has done a big part in making this country the most employerhostile environment anywhere.
Wise decision
Minister Washington Misick is doing the right thing; he is wisely sacrificing upfront fees to encourage increased economic activity and this will reap our nation long term benefits. Minister Misick and his team are also further sacrificing and wisely using the surplus in the Government account to pay off the loans that the British guaranteed in the hard years we experienced when they ran the country. May Almighty God bless the Turks and Caicos Islands and make her the brightest star in the Caribbean.
Economic expansion
This is such an important and major development for these Islands, though a corrective measure because it is really a readjustment of already heavily inflated business licence fees. Already the tax increases have had a serious effect on the Government’s revenue causing a severe loss of revenue, decline in new business, decline in new investments and the signs are there where the Government has only collected $110 million as of December 2014. This is scary and there are only four months to go to end of the financial year April 2015. Yet the reductions and wiping out of licence fees are serious step to economic reform. Business licences should merely be used as form a source of immigration control and regulation but not as a source of revenue. Belongers should pay zero or less than $100 for business license fees. The result would spur new business activity, new investment and would signal the Government’s confidence in its ability to move away from negligible sources of revenue. The Government instead of losing revenue will gain more revenue from new investment. The Government can and should cut business licence fees. This is tax reform and can lead to further economic expansion.
A gradual cut
Why is the choice all or nothing? Why can’t the cut be more gradual so it isn’t a complete and immediate reduction? I agree with the help it will garner for new and current businesses but how are the existing funds from this source utilised?
Destructive taxes
What was it, a year ago that Washy increased the licence fees? The result no doubt was less income because many business people refused to pay or closed down. Others went underground. This simply proves the point that big taxes are destructive. The cold winters have
State funeral for Rosita Butterfield A STATE funeral will be held on February 5 for the much loved “nation builder” Rosita Butterfield MBE – and all public workers will be given a day off to attend. The grandmother and community stalwart passed away at the Doctor’s Hospital in Nassau, Bahamas, earlier this month. On his Facebook page Premier Rufus Ewing said: “I am saddened to learn of the passing of Mrs Rosita Butterfield. “Mrs Butterfield was indeed a nation builder who devoted her entire life to the development of the Turks and Caicos Islands. “Her role in politics, being the first elected female speaker of the House of Assembly, paved the way for women in politics here in the Turks and Caicos Islands. “Mrs Butterfield leaves behind a legacy
which will form a part of this country’s history books, and on behalf of my Government and the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, I express condolences to Dr Albray Butterfield, her children and the entire Butterfield family. “May God grant you comfort in this your time of bereavement.” Dr Butterfield was a teacher, a nurse, a long standing member of parliament, a businesswoman, a preacher and a philanthropist. Born in Kew, North Caicos, she touched the lives of many before passing away on Saturday, January 10, aged 78. A state funeral is a public funeral ceremony, observing the strict rules of protocol, held to honour people of national significance.
temporarily increased our tourist income so now he makes this gesture. He and this week’s Minister of Tourism better start thinking about the effect Cuba will have on the TCI. US business people and politicians are now rushing to this larger, closer island with much lower costs, no taxes and much to attract tourists.
Income boost
This is exactly the type of thing that the Government needs to do to help businesses! The Government will gain more income in the long run from the corporate staff increases and the import duties on goods that these businesses will bring in.
Affordable
For once the Government announces it is reducing something! Let’s applause. The Government can afford it as they have an excess from last year’s budget.
No Belonger fees
So, the Government reduces business licence fees, but continues to make it hard for anyone to actually start a business unless he is a Belonger. Why not just eliminate business licence fees for Belongers? And why is this such a big deal when it is nearly impossible to get a work permit in due time?
Silly season
The people of this country must know that something is wrong. Why now will the minister be making this move? People wanted a payment plan and did not have a real problem with business licences until the fees were hiked under them. Anyone listening to the last House meeting would have heard even his own colleague Norman Saunders saying that this was not a good move and I suppose he knows that his party would be hiking fees somewhere else on the poor man. I smell a rat and the odour is saying that we are being sold for EU funds which wants us to get rid of protections for local businessmen and allow any and every one to come to these Islands and compete with the local businesses. Breaking down barriers to trade and border. Well giving away our rights under a new business license law and immigration law creates barriers for Turks and Caicos Islanders. Washy and this PNP Government must think we are all silly and not paying attention and then again election year is around the corner. Silly season done start for the Government again but then again they never stopped.
Become a contributor
Rosita Butterfield devoted her entire life to the development of the TCI
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
January 24 - 30, 2015
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Olint boss released from Her Majesty’s Prison – US to request extradition BY DELANA ISLES CONFESSED conman David Smith was released from Her Majesty’s Prison in the Turks and Caicos Islands on Thursday (January 22)
after serving just three years. Smith, originally of Jamaica, was convicted of multiple counts of wire fraud and money laundering both in the TCI and the US in 2010 and 2011.
“Roderick ‘Rico’ Adams”
Police, Gov’t to contest Adams’ lawsuit THE GOVERNMENT, the Police Commissioner and the four police officers named in a lawsuit brought by Roderick ‘Rico’ Adams, have signalled their intention to defend themselves against the claim. The lawsuit, filed last year, accuses the Attorney General, the Commissioner and the police officers of wrongful/unlawful arrest, and malicious and criminal proceedings against the 27-year-old. It is expected to be heard in the Supreme Court soon. The matter stems from Adams’ arrest for the 2013 murder of Kaziah Burke. The four policemen named in the matter are Inspector Grantley Williams, Sergeant Andy Harry, Officer David Wilson and Superintendent Wayne Jones. Adams alleges that his constitutional rights were breached by the defendants. He wants the court to grant him damages for loss of liberty, physical, emotional and mental distress and indignity as a result of the defendants’ actions. He also wants damages for the loss of his reputation; aggravated damages for the insulting, highhanded, malicious and oppressive conduct of the defendants; punitive
damages for the defendants’ abuse of authority for a malicious purpose with wilful and grossly negligent disregard for his rights. Also, special damages for his loss of time, interruption in business and routine of life and for expenses related to obtaining his release from custody. He is also asking the court to determine and award him interest on the amounts for the aforementioned claims. He alleges in the court documents that he was arrested and charged for the murder of Burke on information coerced or created by the defendants for a malicious purpose in the face of evidence that exonerated him. Adams was arrested, charged and taken before the court for the murder of the 25-year-old Burke in May 2013. He was charged jointly with Cortez Simmons (still charged) with acting together to commit murder and conspiracy to murder. In May, the charge against Adams was however dropped by the Director of Public Prosecution following statements to the police by a witness to the April 2013 murder. Simmons is set to stand trial for the murder in Providenciales Supreme Court on March 2.
He was sentenced to six and a half years in prison in the TCI and 30 years in the United States. Attorney General, Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles confirmed his release on Thursday afternoon. She said he was released earlier than the sentenced six and a half years, on remission - this applies for all prisoners if they behave well during their incarceration. In February last year, Smith filed an application for parole, but was later denied. At the time of his application the United States Government had made an application for his extradition should he be released. However, that application is no longer valid; the Attorney General told this publication. “They had made an application for his extradition but the application that they made was for when he was about to be paroled but it was not executed because he was not paroled, and they had not made a further application. “So the position is that now we are awaiting a new application from the United States in relation to his extradition,” she stated. In 2010, Smith was convicted in the Supreme Court of the Turks and Caicos Islands after pleading guilty
David Smith was released from Her Majesty’s Prison in the Turks and Caicos Islands after serving just three years
to two counts of money laundering and two counts of conspiracy to defraud. The TCI Belonger was later convicted in the US District Court for the Middle District of Florida in September 2011 on similar charges. Smith ran Olint as a foreign exchange outfit that promised persons high returns that averaged 10 percent per month. In reality Olint was a massive ponzi scheme that managed to rake in reportedly more than $220 million from more than 6,000 investors. Charges were dropped against his wife Tracey Anne in exchange for his admitting to four of a string of financial crime counts in the TCI. Weeks later he was handed over to US authorities where he was accused
Under the tree
of collecting millions from investors under false pretences. Smith’s ponzi scheme extended across the United States and the Caribbean. He admitted to authorities that he paid returns to investors not from profit but from their own money or that paid by subsequent investors. The funds, which were transferred to his own personal bank accounts, reportedly enabled Smith to live a lavish lifestyle. Smith’s racket was finally brought to an end when TCI Financial Crime Unit police raided his Providenciales home and offices in July 2008. Assets from his two TCI based foreign currency exchange companies – FX Traders and Olint TCI – were frozen shortly after.
By Benneth Williams
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January 24 - 30, 2015
Jamaican producers visit TCI on trade mission MORE Jamaican products could hit the shelves soon thanks to the business ties forged during a recent three day trade mission. This week the Jamaica Exporters’ Association (JEA) in partnership with the Jamaica Manufacturers Association (JMA) led a small team of vendors to the TCI. From Monday to Wednesday (January 19 to 21) they met with local businesspeople and spoke about the products and services they could bring to the country. The mission was organised by the JEA, the JMA, InterCaribbean
Airways, the Providenciales Chamber of Commerce, and Caribbean Export Development Agency. Additional support came from Jamaican Consul to the Turks and Caicos Islands, Allan Hutchinson. He told the Weekly News that Jamaica offers “both manufactured, and fresh produce of the highest quality”. “The market that we’re gearing to here is obviously high end – brand Jamaica is very strong.” On Monday evening the visitors enjoyed a cocktail evening at
Hotels to assist in disease surveillance
A REGIONAL expert in disease surveillance visited the TCI this week to talk about how hotels can get involved. Dr Lisa Indar, a member of the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), led a two day workshop on Tuesday and Wednesday (January 20 and 21). She said: “The purpose of this workshop is to build capacity in the hotel industry, to implement a hotel-based surveillance system that will identify visitors seeking medical attention in the TCI. “The establishment of hotelbased surveillance will promote sustainable tourism in the TCI. “Given TCI’s dependence on tourism and its high end tourism product, it is essential to ensure that negative health events be avoided or prevented.” The workshop was organised by the Ministry of Health and Human Services in partnership with CARPHA, the Ministry of Tourism and the Hotel and Tourism Association. The first day focused on demonstrating the critical need for hotel-based surveillance through the emerging public health pathogens that have the potential to affect the tourism industry. Norovirus, a highly
contagious virus that can be easily spread from person to person, and the leading causes of outbreaks in hotels worldwide, was a topic of discussion on day one. The second day featured discussions on the most feasible mechanism to establish hotel based surveillance in the Turks and Caicos Islands. CARPHA’s Tourism and Health Programme was launched in May 2014. It is being implemented by CARPHA, the Caribbean Tourism Organisation, and the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association. The goal is to improve the health, safety, quality and sustainability of the Caribbean tourism industry. Dr Indar has over 15 years of experience in the surveillance and prevention of food and waterborne diseases in the Caribbean and over 10 years of experience in improving food safety and hotel based surveillance. She is currently programme manager of the Tourism and Health Programme (THP) at CARPHA, the Caribbean’s health and disease monitoring agency.
Kalooki’s restaurant and bar in Blue Hills, Providenciales, hosted by InterCaribbean Airways. Lyndon Gardiner, chairman of InterCaribbean Airways, said that meaningful trade in the Caribbean is only going to be possible when it is connected with convenient air services. He added that the company is pleased to be a partner in the development of trade across the region. On Tuesday evening the vendors set up their products on tables at Beaches Resort and Spa for an event organised by the Providenciales Chamber of Commerce. It allow the guests to talk to members of the TCI business community about what they had to offer. Some of the products on display were iodised salt and sea salt, spring water, fresh fruits and vegetables, poultry products, peppered shrimps, ginger extract, processed foods, lime juice, coffee, flavoured honey, sauces and spices. There were also displays of sportswear, craft items, paints, cigars, spray starch, insecticide, natural mosquito repellent and body lotion. E Jay Saunders, president of the Providenciales Chamber of Commerce, told the Weekly News that Jamaica produces cheap goods at a very high quality.
Suzette Thomas with her Sue Tru Caribbean sauces and jams
“So just from an economical point of view it makes sense for us to trade with Jamaica.” On Wednesday following the event the vendors were given the opportunity to meet with contacts they had made during the previous few days. The JEA is a 250-member private trade association that is committed to enhancing the competitiveness and sustained
Handmade dolls from Maxine Stone Gift and Craft
growth of Jamaica’s nontraditional export sector. Members believe that there is a direct correlation between successful exporting and a thriving microenterprise sector. For almost 50 years the JEA has been fulfilling its mandate by partnering with local and international organisations to develop and implement programmes of support for the export sector.
January 24 - 30, 2015
NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Some of the delicious products that the Jamaican vendors have to offer
A reshuffle or a reassignment? MILLS MUSES
Maxine Stoney displays her products during a showcase event
The association comprises of mainly small and medium sized exporters in 17 sub-sector groups. Meanwhile the JMA represents more than 340 members in all subsectors, as well as institutions and organisations which provide services to the industry. The association remains a strong voice for manufacturers, by lobbying for an enabling business environment.
It also promotes locallymade products, facilitates trade and networking, and assists in building the capacity of local manufacturers. Its overall objective is to develop the manufacturing sector and increase its contribution to the socio-economic welfare of the country, by creating jobs, earning foreign exchange and improving the standard of living for all.
Talking about how the products are manufactured
THE PREMIER has recently announced a change in responsibilities for some of his ministers. Some call it a reshuffling, others a reassignment, and one report sees it as a shake-up. One source describes a reshuffle as happening when a head of government rotates or changes the composition of ministers in the cabinet, and another sees it as an interchange of positions. These actions seem quite mild and without any deliberateness behind them. Reassignment suggests movement to another ministry which requires more effective management, or to assign to a different area. It implies the occupant has skills this new area needs to enable it to deliver on important policy goals. Shake-up connotes a calculated decision to consciously remove certain functionaries from their posts because of dissatisfaction with their performance. All these imply transfers of some sought. In any case, a change in portfolios gives the impression that the Premier is displeased with certain members of the team, although he is reported as saying it does not indicate a lack of confidence in any minister, and
BY Oliver Mills
Oliver Mills was born in South Caicos, acquired a diploma in article writing from the Writer’s Digest School in the United States, and worked as training manager for the Turks and Caicos public service. He is currently an adjunct lecturer in the Business and Hospitality Departments at the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College.
that it will ensure the Government delivers for the people. If there is no lack of confidence, why transfer anyone? If the contributions have been impactful and commendable, then it suggests competence and good stewardship. So what is the point of a reshuffle? If someone is removed from their responsibilities where does the fresh wave of ideas come from that would benefit the new portfolios? The reality is, that despite diplomatic justifications, a reshuffling indicates less than desirable performance. No real results have been shown from the occupants, and if left, the situation could take a turn for the worse. Emergency surgery is therefore necessary. Again shake-ups result from complaints about the performance of those concerned and there is a rush by the political directorate to contain them by removing the source. Furthermore, reassignment comes from a fear of the political
repercussions that could put a government in an unfavourable light. The Government would then have to inoculate itself against this occurring. Also a reshuffle happens when some members of a political team become too lax in managing their portfolios. But a reshuffle could also result from the maximum leader feeling a sense of security over his achievements, and therefore strong and courageous enough to undertake a change in portfolios. The political directorate knows that those who are directly affected have no place to go, so a rebellion or vote of no confidence is out of the question. This psychological reassurance emboldens the leader to take the necessary actions that would restore the integrity of the Government, and reignite faith in the effective political management of the system.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
January 24 - 30, 2015
Force remembers murdered police officer – Appeal for witnesses continues 10 years later By Rebecca Bird IT WAS a moving scene at Leeward Marina in Providenciales on Thursday (January 22) as friends, family and former colleagues gathered to remember Constable Prince Smith. The young officer, originally of St Vincent and the Grenadines, was killed in the line of duty in 2005 as he attempted to apprehend a group of robbers. This week was the tenth anniversary of his tragic death and an opportunity for officers to not only commemorate his bravery but re-appeal for information into his murder. Pastor Smith led the sombre proceedings at the site of the killing with a prayer in which he urged those gathered to reflect upon the “sacrifices of an individual who in the line of duty lost his life”. “We pray dear Lord that you will continue to provide the strength, the comfort, the reassurance for all of the police officers.” He added: “We want them to know that they are deeply and wholeheartedly appreciated,” before blessing the setting and the occasion. Commissioner of Police Colin Farquhar then thanked everyone for attending the short memorial service. “It’s really important that we have these gatherings and that everybody comes together as a reminder of the sensitivity of our job and that life is fragile,” he said. He added that despite rare tragic events such as Smith’s murder the Turks and Caicos Islands remains one of the safest tourist destinations in the region. Acting Deputy Commissioner Rodney Adams reminded attendees that a newly appointed officer is investigating cold cases such as the Smith murder. “With the help of persons working with the Cold Case Unit, and a closer working relationship going forward, we’re going to double our efforts in terms of trying to get to the bottom of this and bring to justice those person or persons responsible for the senseless killing of ten years ago. “And we want to once again re-
Friends, family and former colleagues gathered to remember slain cop Prince Smith
appeal to members of the public that could have information that would assist us with this investigation. “It’s never too late. Please come forward and assist wherever possible.” Attendees then bowed their heads as a moment of silence was held for Smith. TRAGIC DEATH The incident happened close to a restaurant in Leeward at about 1.15pm on Thursday, January 20, 2005. Constable Smith, who was dressed in plain clothes, and other passengers got out of a taxi and headed towards the restaurant. According to a Weekly News report, two masked men, armed with guns, approached the group. One of the men was about 5ft 7ins and armed with a rifle and the other was about 6ft and armed with a handgun. The men demanded a bag which was being carried by one of the group and contained the Parrot Cay resort staff salaries. Smith, who was officially escorting the money from First Caribbean Bank, attempted to stop the criminals but in the process was shot in the abdomen. The robbers made away with the cash in an apprehended white Dodge Caravan which police later found abandoned. Smith was taken to Myrtle Rigby Health Clinic where he sadly died from the serious injury. The incident happened exactly a week after an armed robbery at First Caribbean Bank where a security guard was shot and injured. During a press conference the same day former Chief Minister Michael Misick extended his sympathies to Smith’s family and the police force. He added: “The Government is committed to putting all its resources behind catching these criminals and bringing them to justice, wherever they may be hiding.” Former Governor James Poston said: “The murder which took place continued
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Commissioner of Police Colin Farquhar and Assistant Deputy Commissioner Rodney Adams
It was a sombre occasion at the site of Smith’s murder at Leeward Marina
January 24 - 30, 2015
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REAL TALK
Inspector Hilton Duncan bows his head as he remembers Smith
Force remembers murdered ... continued
is a terrible thing. It makes us realise the risks that they go through day in day out, and we never know when something might happen. “We owe them an enormous debt of thanks.” Hundreds attended Smith’s funeral at Faith Tabernacle Church of God in Providenciales. including friends, family, colleagues and members of the Government. During the service former Commissioner of Police Paul Harvey told attendees: “He was very disciplined and committed to the job. “His life was by far too short and should not, and will not go in vain.” Smith’s uncle Dave Smith pleaded with the police force: “I beg of you, the police force and the authority to work hand in hand to stamp out crime and violence in the society. “I pray and hope that his death will not go in vain. “If you don’t do anything about it, the next time God speaks, none of us will be able to comprehend.” Smith received a 21 gun salute from his colleagues at the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force. His coffin draped with a Turks and Caicos Islands flag was then flow back to St Vincent and the Grenadines for burial. A year later on January 20, 2006,
a wreath laying ceremony was held in Smith’s honour. Among the attendees were former Commissioner of Police Edward Hall, former Governor Richard Tauwhare, and former acting Chief Minister Floyd Hall. Hall explained that investigations were ongoing but no arrests had been made. “I am very hopeful that the persons responsible for this crime will be brought to justice,” he said. A $125,000 reward was offered to anyone giving information which could lead to the capture of those responsible for Smith’s death. The Chief Minister’s Office put up $50,000, Johnston International offered $50,000 and an unnamed corporate citizen offered the remaining $25,000. Tauwhare said: “We should leave no stone unturned until we have found those responsible, and that they have been duly brought to justice and punished, so we can right this terrible wound that has been inflicted on this country, on the police force and on Constable Smith and his family.” Police were working with the FBI to bring the matter to a close – but to date no one has been charged with the crime. Anyone with any information on the incident can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 1-800-8477.
We need to wake up - Part one
TCI citizens, WE NEED TO WAKE UP! You may be asking yourself; why do we need to wake up? Have we been sleeping? My statement that ‘we need to wake up’ is rooted in the realities we now face as a nation. Firstly, we have a country which has been morally corrupted through and through with dishonesty, greed, malice and an obsession with material wealth. Many of us observed this country’s gradual spiritual decline as many Christians and moral minded Islanders traded their humility and integrity for material things, compromised with the truth, accepted immoral living as the order of the day upheld those things which we once despised. Secondly, we need to wake up because we live in one of the only countries in the world where the expats outnumber the indigenous people almost at a ratio of 2:1. Please don’t underestimate this reality. Consider this: the one place that a race or people should be in majority; is in their own country. We face the threat of being overthrown by foreigners in our own land and it is taken lightly by many citizens and leaders of this country as everyday more and more decisions are being made to hasten our economic, social and eventual political inferiority. We must awake in this land
By Jas Walkin
BIOGRAPHY: Jas was born with a physical disability and diagnosed with a mild form of muscular dystrophy. His early childhood was characterised with trying to fit in in a regular school environment unequipped to cater to special needs students. With support from family, teachers and the community he graduated as valedictorian of Raymond Gardiner High School and has been a graduate teacher for the past last nine years.
because more and more jobs that should be held by TCI citizens are being given to foreigners. We are being out-educated, outtrained and out-hired. Our economy is made up of more work permit holders and illegal workers than naturalised and indigenous citizens. Moreover, the little resources we do have are spent on repatriation of illegal persons and ever so often our communities are being infiltrated by those who escape immigration and border patrol. To make matters worse, the laws we should have in place to regulate immigration and the status of nonBelongers have so many loop holes which creates more problems than solutions. One of the most dangerous nightmares we are experiencing in this country is the lack of planning on our part to correct the problems in this country. I often feel like most citizens are sleeping through life unaware or unaffected by the harsh realities of our future. We have people in key positions in this country who appear to either be ignorant of what is going on or simply
don’t care. Amazingly, these are the same people who we often defend and continue to place above our common sense and unifying love for country. This nightmare needs to end, WE MUST WAKE UP! We need to wake up because we are failing the present and future generation. How can we adults demand a sense of direction and purpose from our youth when we ourselves are still lost? How can we ask the youth to love TCI when we dishonour it daily? How can we ask the youth to prepare for their future when we are letting our present situation continue unaddressed? Let me remind you of what Jesus said in the good book about this generation requiring a sign to believe. We can’t just tell them things; we have to show them. It appears very stupid for us to continue to call this generation ‘our future’ when we make no preparation for them to even make it to ‘the future’. Stay tuned for part two of ‘We need to wake up’.
COMMENTARY
High debt, poor management IT IS time to acknowledge reality. The reality of every single problem this county has is lack of finances. The financial shortages spring from one thing, debt. Debt payback and obligations run up by the PNP party. It begins with Premier Misick spending and continues with Premier Ewing’s contract to pay hundreds of millions to Interhealth Canada for 20 years. Ewing also was said to be a central decision maker in the overly expensive construction of the hospitals by a contractor using Chinese workers and an expensive financer. If the 12 percent mortgage interest rate is correct it also reflects the credit worthiness of the PNP.
Who then will finance our debt in February 2016 without Britain? What interest will we pay? When the Government talks about refinancing PNP debt they don’t tell you stretching out the debt increases the amount of interest the people will pay. The longer the payback the higher the risk and interest rate. Hence higher taxes and higher prices. Why can’t we get the British to shoulder some of the debt? The PNP asked Britain for the quasi independence of the 2006 Constitution and the PNP got it, then blew it. This caused the inquiry and direct rule. Then the voters returned the PNP including the same family. What was said about that election behind closed British doors was reflected in the repo of the PNP
headquarters. What about those things that have nothing to do with finances but require management and supervision? One is the civil service. In his haste to relieve the civil service of 1,000 extra employees with minimum pain, Governor Wetherell laid off the experienced civil servants because they had severance and were willing to take the golden hand shake. Now it takes months to obtain an official driver’s licence, birth or death certificate. Why can’t a widow or dependent child heir of an National Insurance Board retiree access their benefits? Why does it take years to obtain a passport? The biggest question of all is why does this civil service lose documents and records repeatedly? Why are they going on trips? One
By David Tapfer
David is a retired mobile hydraulic engineer and business executive. He has been married to Middle Caicos native Yvette Robinson Tapfer for 25 years and has lived in Conch Bar, Middle Caicos, since 2002. David formerly served as branch chairman of the PDM from 2008 to 2011 high level person said this is the worst civil service in the history of the TCI. Where is HE Beckingham? The civil service is underpaid based on job responsibilities but overpaid based on performance. After 11 years of PNP supervision, time for a change. Why are we building another high school when we need a trade school?
Teach our own people how to perform technical functions to insure their employment and income. Expat volunteer teachers are willing to teach but it would take real management by Mike’s niece who started her ministry with a trip to New Guinea. Reality demands a big change.
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January 24 - 30, 2015
Law enforcement officials celebrated
POLICE officers, firefighters, customs officers and border control officers were thanked and praised for their hard work and dedication to law enforcement during a church service on Sunday (January 18). Scores of people including the uniformed officers attended the annual celebratory event at the Church of God of Prophecy in Providenciales. Members of the Government and Opposition gave thanks to the attendees, along with Governor Peter Beckingham. According to a press release on Tuesday (January 20) Beckingham told attendees: “Too often the work of key staff in the public sector is underrated and undervalued. “I am delighted that the churches of Turks and Caicos take it in turn to celebrate the contribution of officers ranging from the police and fire forces to customs and border control. “A clear mark of the value of that work was the award of an honour to the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Border Control and
Labour in the Queen’s Honours. “That award should be seen as a recognition of the work of everyone in her department.” The Governor spoke about the competency of police forces all over the world. He said that while he hoped that the TCI would never see dreadful terrorism acts like those in Paris earlier this month, every member of the police force needs to ask themselves whether they could match the fitness, marksmanship and efficiency of the French police. “Although the events of Paris may seem light years away from us, we all need to recognise how dependent we are similarly on the bravery of our police force, who are part of the international community of police dedicated to preserving and protecting peace in our community,” Beckingham said. In a press release on Tuesday (January 20) following the event Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson said it was a wonderful uplifting occasion.
She told attendees: “I respect each of you in your rightful place and wish in a brief period to impress upon you the significance, importance and seriousness of your role; the level of commitment that is required for the fields that you have chosen and then to charge you.” She went on to speak about some of the challenges they may face in their efforts to carry out their work. They included lack of resources such as man power or tools, the thankless attitude of the people they serve, the lack of cooperation of valuable stakeholders, and lack of decent pay and other incentives. She continued: “As I stand before you, I wish to remind you that you are public servants which means that you are servants for and to the public. “And while you perform a critical role of protecting our borders or our streets or that of securing our safety or protecting or preserving our health and environment, people will not always appreciate the fact that you are critical to the functioning –
proper functioning of this country.” She asked them to continue to do their jobs without fear or favour and said that people will respect them for it. “You must use criticism to measure you – always see what you can learn from it and if nothing, use it as a stepping stone to propel yourself forward. “It too often seems as though the underachiever gets to the top and is rewarded while hard workers are overlooked, but God sees your efforts and he cannot lie when he promises and says in his word that he will reward you.” She said that as members of parliament the Opposition is committed to helping improve conditions for the law enforcers. “As partners with law enforcers we are first to obey our laws and then to assist you in enforcing it be through the sharing of valuable information or doing.” She urged them to form a Joint Law Enforcement Association and come up with ideas and policies to
better their profession. “Jointly you can address policies and challenges to effect better service to the people of these Islands. “Together you are so much stronger. And then seek ways to strengthen your relationship with the people you serve.” She stressed that they could not partner with others until they have learnt to partner among themselves. “A house divided amongst itself will always fall. Your goals will be further away than furthered. “I encourage you to continue these types of services and foster among yourselves a greater partnership.” She concluded by asking those gathered to let the love of their country be their motivator. “While you may feel insignificant in the link from time to time, always remember that if I, if you break at your point, then the chain’s true purpose is lost.” Also speaking at the service were Premier Rufus Ewing and acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams.
Rotary Club donates cash for school breakfasts BY DAISY HANDFIELD
A CHEQUE for $500 was donated to the Oseta Jolly Primary School (OJPS) in Blue Hills, Providenciales, this week to assist with the school’s ongoing breakfast programme. The Rotary Club of Providenciales presented the cheque to principal Rachel Handfield at the school grounds on Wednesday (January 21). Handfield expressed gratitude towards the Rotary Club for their continuous support. “We know that for different reasons sometimes our students find themselves in need. “We are just as happy that as a school we are able to meet those needs and it is as a result of the contributions that is made by the Rotary Club of Providenciales.” The Rotary Club donates a cheque of $500 to the school every term. Handfield said that the programme is simply a bridge to take students
and their parents over a rough period. “It is not a programme where we want students to be there permanently. “Even though we have a lot of students we are working with, we have occasions where we have to help students on a needs basis and that can be any day.” President of the non-profit organisation Bloneva Greene said that the Rotary Club has been partnering with the school for about five years. “We realise how important breakfast is and we realise how some students come to school who might not even have breakfast. “Rotarians want to give back and meet that need.” Greene said that the clubs wants to reach out to other schools because they have needs as well. She added that the only way to do this is with the support of the community. “We continue to give back to
Bloneva Greene, president of the Rotary Club of Providenciales, OJPS principal Rachel Handfield, and Rotarians Alvin Parker and Lofton Ellis holding up the cheque
our schools because we believe in education and in order to get good education you need to also be able to have a good meal to be able to function in the classroom.” Rotary International is service
organisation with the aim of bringing together business and professional leaders in order to provide humanitarian services, encouraging high ethical standards in all vocations, and helping to build
goodwill and peace in the world. Members usually meet weekly for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, which is a social event as well as an opportunity to organise work on their service goals.
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Sea ports to be monitored for stolen goods BY DELANA ISLES A SIGNIFICANT amount of the goods stolen from residences during the recent spate of burglaries are making their way out of the Turks and Caicos Islands and into neighbouring countries. This is according to Premier Rufus Ewing, who was at the time speaking with the media after having received a crime update from the Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams during Wednesday’s (January 21) Cabinet meeting. As a result of this, the Premier announced that the police will be working along with the Customs Department to step up surveillance at sea ports where most of the boats are leaving for the Dominican Republic
and Haiti. Persons leaving will have to declare all items and customs officers will now routinely search these vessels to ensure there are no reported stolen items on board. Their hope is to capture these criminals and reclaim any of the stolen goods. He said police and customs officials have already started discussions on their intention to start checking vessels that are leaving the TCI as there is definitely an outside market to get rid of these goods that are being stolen. Other measures that the police will be putting in place will include increased deployment of police officers across the Islands, particularly in the areas most targeted
by criminals. He said: “This redeployment would also include the positioning of vehicles and the utilisation of vehicles and other means including the strengthening of the community policing and working with the citizens and residents in those particular communities to help combat crime.” The Police Commissioner is expected to provide an update to the public during a press conference sometime soon on any additional measures as well announce the recent crime statistics across the Islands. “We are encouraging the citizens of Turks and Caicos if you are aware of or know of these criminal activities taking place to please report all incidents of crime within
your communities so that the police will be able to get on top of these individuals. “Because we know that these acts are being conducted by a select group of individuals who are repeat offenders of these types of crimes,” the Premier advised. He noted that from the report the Government received from the police, there has definitely been an increase in a number of criminal activities in Providenciales, particularly during the past few months. Residents and visitors alike have taken to social media over the past few months to alert friends and others of their stolen items and to be on the lookout for persons trying to sell these goods.
Most of the items stolen are electronics like cellular devices, laptop computers, also television sets, cameras, jewellery among other things that are generally easily resold. A number of burglaries over the past month have taken place at resorts, villas, on the beaches and from parked vehicles. From December 1 to December 31, 2014, there were 15 burglaries in the greater Grace Bay area – 10 in Grace Bay, two in the Bight, and three in the Lower Bight, police recently disclosed this publication. From January 1 to January 13 there were eight further burglaries in the greater Grace Bay area – two in Grace Bay, three in the Bight, and three in the Lower Bight.
JoJo recovers from boat prop injury THE TCI’s most famous marine mascot, JoJo the bottlenose dolphin, is recovering this week after sustaining a nasty gash from a boat propeller. The incident happened last Thursday, January 15, in the waters off Grace Bay beach where the decades old mammal spends much of his time. Part time Providenciales resident Jay Sargent, the creator of the JoJo and Jay website and blog, documented the incident online. On Friday, January 16, she wrote: “The day started out with the wind coming from the west which it rarely does. “I notice as we head out that I have two text messages. They both have to do with JoJo.” She explained that she first spoke to Philip Shearer of Big Blue eco tours who said that JoJo was injured. “He doesn’t know how bad or where he is. He said he was sighted at the Club Med dock yesterday evening and he had a big cut near his fluke.” The second text was from friend who owns a water sports operation and swimming school, who explained that a post about JoJo had been written on Facebook. “All of this fills my heart with dread. JoJo is getting on in years. I have had animals my whole life and know that as they age, the things that happen in their youth can often be much harder to deal with as the get older.”
She added: “So many awful things are going through my mind. Mostly please, oh please may JoJo be okay.” Sargent, who regularly spots JoJo on trips out on her Boston Whaler boat Spy Hop with her husband John, travelled out to Grace Point where she saw a familiar shape heading toward her. “I scramble to get my snorkel and fins on before jumping in to see how he is,” she wrote. “He’s found a fish, I see him crater fishing. A good sign, he is swimming okay and can eat! “As I swim up to him, I see a big, deep gash and scrapes. This is perhaps the deepest one I’ve ever seen. “The good news is he’s acting totally normal other than not wanting to get in our wake (perhaps he should swear off that for a while).” She went on to reassure readers that JoJo is doing well and said that she took a long video of him joining in with familiar games. “Despite the ugly gash his behaviour is a good sign that he’s okay,” Sargent said. “I will be looking at him every day to see if it is healing properly.” She added that she will contact a vet immediately if he shows signs of not making a full recovery. On Wednesday’s blog post Sargent describes JoJo catching fish, swimming near her boat and being more interactive. To find out more about JoJo’s adventures with Jay Sargent visit www.jojoandjay.com.
JoJo has deep cuts down his side after being struck by a boat propeller
An earlier photo of a playful and uninjured JoJo from www.jojoandjay.com
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Poets speak out on violence in online video By Daisy Handfield THE INCREASE in crime among the youths of the TCI inspired poets from Towers of Babel to produce a video called ‘WakeUpTCI’ geared at drawing awareness to the subject. The five minute YouTube video features members Vanessa Hall, Romaine Pinnock and Hezron Henry. Hall expresses disapproval for the way young people are destroying each other instead of being protective of one another. “We have grown to have less care for each other, we have grown to not have a heart for each other, wasting our last days; living in harmonised lies.” Romaine Pinnock, a poet with Towers of Babel also known as Trigga Api, told the Weekly News on Tuesday (January 20) that the idea for the video came about during a meeting. Members spoke about
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
The five minute YouTube video features members of Towers of Babel
violence in the TCI and the recent murder of Kenley Walters at the Club 2005. “We just thought that we should do something and just throwing in ideas of what we could do, we just threw in ideas of doing a video of sample pieces with poetry,” Pinnock said. He added that the group will release a second part of the video next week which will be similar to the first,
but with ideas coming from different perspectives. Members of the group are pleased with the response that they have received from the public so far. Pinnock said that poetry was his first love, which was one of the reasons why he decided to join the TCI poetry group, Towers of Babel. “Most of my songs were poems and I turned them into songs, but I was always scared
to do it because it takes a lot of guts and I am not a public speaker. “I guess seeing people appreciate the art that I love so much, gave me the courage to step up and take part.” He went on to say that the Walters family saw the video and they were extremely pleased with what the group had put together. Towers of Babel poets are hosting a poetry and arts showcase called Black Love at VIP Lounge in Providenciales on February 14 at 7pm. More information on Towers of Babel, upcoming showcases and the video is available online at http:// towersofbabel.weebly.com.
Senior civil servants appointed to Gov’t A NEW Permanent Secretary and Deputy Secretary were appointed to the Government this week. Ian Astwood and Desmond Lightbourne were awarded the posts following an interview process in December. In a press release on Monday (January 19) Deputy Governor Anya Williams said: “I would like to congratulate them both, and reiterate how important it is for TCIG to continue to recruit the best and most talented to civil service.” Astwood previously served as Deputy Secretary and later Acting Permanent Secretary of Government Support Services. He was formally appointed to the post
of Permanent Secretary following interviews with three other applicants. Wilson was formally appointed as Deputy Secretary from a pool of 16 applicants for the post of Deputy Secretary of Border Control. Following a shakeup in the Government ministries recently Astwood will be working in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Transportation and Communication, while Wilson will be working in the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning. A Permanent Secretary is the most senior civil servant of a Government ministry, charged with running the department on a day-to-day basis.
The Shore Club resort is already six weeks ahead of schedule
Every month the Weekly News in collaboration with a local company will be giving away top prizes to our readers
This week a brand new smartphone worth $85 is up for grabs courtesy of Digicel TCI The Digicel DL 800 smartphone comes complete with a seven day social data plan so you can start using the internet and connecting with friends straight away!
Name: ................................................. Number: ................................................. To be in with a chance of winning complete this word search, fill out your name and number and drop it to the Weekly News office above the Flower Girl on Leeward Highway, Providenciales ENTREES CLOSE JANUARY 24. The winner will be selected at random!
Shore Club project weeks ahead of schedule BY DAISY HANDFIELD
THE $100 million Shore Club resort development in Long Bay is about six weeks ahead of schedule, according to CEO for the Hartling Group, Stan Hartling. Hartling told the Weekly News on Tuesday (January 20), that construction is about 60 to 70 percent completed. He said that the targeted date for completion of the two main residential buildings and the pools is December. “We are trying to do some evaluations on whether or not we are ready to go on to the next phase of this development, so we are going to try and have some discussions with the Government to see if we can make that happen.” He added that the Hartling
Group would like to fully open the resort by early or mid2016. The businessman said that sales have been going quite well, with somewhere close to 60 percent of all of the condos being sold. He mentioned that they are now getting ready to start marketing some of the villas. “I think it is really important for people to see the excitement that is starting to happen around Long Bay,” Hartling said. “It sort of went into a quiet state where it sort of became unknown for the longest time. “I really encourage people to get out and come down here and really see what is happening.” Construction on the Shore Club commenced in February
2014. Two low-rise beachfront buildings will feature 38 two and three bedroom luxury condos, occupying 820 feet of beachfront in a nine acre setting on the southeast shore of Providenciales. The project will also feature six 6,000 square foot villas, three swimming pools, bespoke restaurants and retail shops, and a spa with wellness centre. It is being developed by The Hartling Group, in association with DECCO, a Dart Enterprises company based in the Cayman Islands. This week it was announced that Ashley Norton, a leading designer and manufacturer of architectural hardware, is producing custom made door handles for the $100 million resort.
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Miss Turks and Caicos with her national costume ‘Salt Angel’ designed by Kazz Forbes
Williams poses for photographers in a gorgeous Mac Duggal gown
Rehearsing for the international pageant coming up on Sunday
Miss TCI to compete for Miss Universe crown
THIS Sunday (January 25) millions of people across the globe will be tuned into their television sets to watch 88 girls compete for the title of Miss Universe 2015. Among the contestants vying for the coveted crown is island beauty Miss Turks and Caicos Shanice Williams. The slender 5’9” contestant, who wore the sash for Grand Turk, won Miss Turks and Caicos 2014 on April 26 last year. She also walked away with the awards for Miss Intellect, Best in Swimsuit, Best Evening Gown, Miss Congeniality and Miss
Photogenic. Twenty-one-year-old Williams, who was born and raised in Grand Turk, is excited to take part in the famous televised contest. The 63rd Miss Universe pageant this weekend is set to be a spectacular affair with competitions for swimsuit, evening gown and interview. Williams is also up for the prize of Miss Universe 2014 Miss Photogenic Award and is currently in second place (at time of press). Anyone can register to vote for her up to 15 times a day from a link at www.misstci.org.
The pageant queen, who has brains as well as beauty, is the secretary for the Crown Land Unit, Lands Division, and this summer received a Bachelor’s Degree in financial management from the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College. Her goal is to become a certified financial planner. Williams motto in life is ‘Pray more, fear less, live better’ and she enjoys reading, dancing, traveling, modelling and helping out with activities at her church. Her profile on the Miss Universe website describes her as “a beauty
that is not distracted by what lies behind her, but focuses on what lies ahead of her”. “She tries to see the reality in every situation and always puts her best foot forward,” it reads. “At the age of 21, she’s still in the midst of finding herself; learning more about how she can use the gifts and talents God has blessed her with. “Always wearing a smile, she encourages everyone around her to reach and see their true potential. “She is optimistic, a motivator and most importantly, a great friend.” This month she has spent several weeks in Doral, Florida, meeting
other contestants and taking part in numerous fun marketing activities. The 2014 Miss Universe Beauty Pageant will take place at 8pm on January 25 at the US Century Bank Arena at Florida International University in Doral, Florida. Gabriela Isler, Miss Universe 2013 will crown her successor at the conclusion of the three hour telecast which will be hosted by Today’s Natalie Morales and MSNBC’s Thomas Roberts. The pageant will be broadcast to about 190 countries and territories and is expected to attract up to a billion viewers.
Grand Turk school gets huge technology boost STUDENTS in Grand Turk now have dozens of brand new computers on which to carry out their work, thanks to a donation from Grand Turk Fishing Tournament Committee. On Thursday (January 22) the HJ Robinson High School was officially decked out with thousands of dollars of new technology. Governor Peter Beckingham, Deputy Premier Akierra Missick, Minister of Education, and Permanent Secretary Cheryl Ann Jones joined the members of the committee at the school. Deputy Premier Akierra Missick, Minister of Education, said: “The HJ Robinson High School and the Ministry of Education extends its appreciation to the members of the Grand Turk Fishing Tournament for the contribution made. “It brings the school a step closer to the goal of integrating technology more effectively into the teaching and learning environment. “We would also like to thank the community of Grand Turk
for purchasing tickets, all those individuals that sold tickets and Mr Carl Simmons of Tropical Shipping for shipping them free of cost to the country.” The generous package includes
two multi-point servers along with 30 client work stations and an additional five systems loaded with AutoCad software. This setup now gives the teachers more control over the actions
Students sit at their desks with their brand new computers
of students and it also uses less energy than traditional computer arrangements. It will better cater to the needs of the fifth form students and ultimately be able to begin offering
technical drawing to students using auto CAD. Missick said: “Our thanks also go out to the Computer Unit of the TCIG and in particular Mr Patterson
Patterson Williams demonstrates the capabilities of the multi-point system
Lifestyle... 16
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
How does your garden grow
BY DENIS Belanger - NATURE SPLENDOR
Denis is a passionate landscape architect who enjoys the creative process and his clients’ joy when projects come to life. Contact Denis at Nature Splendor for your landscaping, installation or garden maintenance needs. For more information call 332-3381 or email denis@naturesplendor.net.
Weekly Recipe Helen Barkworth-Knight is a teacher and qualified baker with a lifelong love for cooking for friends and family. She is a mother to Owen, almost two, who has very particular tastes in all things, especially food. Hence she has become an expert in hiding vegetables in all sorts of dishes!
Sweetcorn and zucchini fritters Serves four as an appetizer or light meal (makes approximately 8 to 10 fritters)
Ingredients • 1 cup self-rising flour • ¼ teaspoon paprika • Pinch of salt • 1 teaspoon baking powder • 2 teaspoons sugar • 2 eggs • 1/3 cup milk • ½ 11oz can no added salt sweetcorn (about 150g) • 1 medium zucchini, grated • 3 green (spring) onions, finely chopped • Oil for frying e.g. vegetable or coconut Method • Mix together the flour, paprika, salt, baking powder and sugar in a large bowl. • Whisk together the eggs and milk in a jug. • Slowly and gradually stir the egg and milk mixture into the flour mixture. Mix just until all the flour mixture is incorporated, even if there are still a few small lumps. If you overwork it, the fritters will be tough when cooked. • Put the grated zucchini in a sieve and gently press it (over the sink
or a bowl) to remove some of the moisture. • Mix the zucchini, sweetcorn and green onion together in a mixing bowl and gradually add just enough of the flour batter to bind the vegetables together. • Fill a heavy-bottomed frying pan about a third full with oil and gently heat until a small drop of the batter bubbles up and starts to brown straight away. • The oil should be over a mediumhot heat, but not too hot or the fritters will burn and the oil will smoke and spit. • Gently drop tablespoons of the batter into the pan, being very careful the hot oil doesn’t splash you. • Don’t overcrowd the pan or the fritters will clump together – cook them in batches if necessary. • Fry until golden on the underside, then carefully flip over and fry until both sides are golden and the fritters are firm in the centre. • Drain the excess oil by putting the cooked fritters on paper kitchen towel. Continue until all the batter mixture is used up. • Serve with sweet chilli sauce (or any sauce you like) and a garden salad.
January 24 - 30, 2015
Alocasia ‘borneo giant’ THERE are hundreds of varieties of alocasia, but when you look at alocasia ‘borneo giant’ the only thing that will run through your mind is, wow! It is not called borneo giant for nothing, this thing gets huge. The beast of an alocasia can reach 10 feet at maturity with leaves three feet wide and four feet long. Borneo giant makes a killer plant and the centre of attention. Alocasia borneo giant is said to be yet another variety of alocasia macrorrhizos. This giant grows two to six feet the first year. The following year it may grow anywhere from eight to 15 feet tall once mature. This plant will also produce large fragrant flowers. On the leaves of an alocasia borneo giant you will see a ripple effect. As the leaves mature they will lean slightly rather than point straight upward. This plant get much larger, than most macrorrhiza types, before producing trunks. Overall borneo giant is a very fast, strong, and tough plant. I have grown
it in full shade to partial shade, but it is capable of growing in full sun if well-irrigated and planted in rich organic soil. It is a big eater and can grow at an almost impossible rate if feed well. Alocasia soil require a mix of 50 percent potting soil, 20 percent peat moss, 20 percent orchid bark with charcoal, 10 percent shredded sphagnum moss and a handful of perlite. Place this mixture in a pot, beds or garden and plant your alocasia. Proper site preparation ensures years of growth and once established they will not require weed control. If using drip irrigation allow soil
YOUR BODY Dr Craig Zavitz is a Canadian chiropractor registered in the Turks and Caicos Islands. He specialises in gentle manual therapies, activator, therapeutic laser, and smoking cessation. To make appointments call 941-5252 or email craig@gracebaychiro.com. For more information visit www.gracebaychiro.com.
to dry slightly between waterings. Do not overwater any members of the alocasia family. Alocasia fertiliser, this heavy feeder every three weeks during the warmer months with a one halfstrength fertiliser with a balanced N-P-K ratio or 20-20-20. There is few pests or diseases for this plant. When planting to avoid crown rot, stem rot and other fungal diseases keep your alocasia fairly dry. Alocasia are also referred to as giant taro, ape plant, elephant ear, ape flower, elephant’s ear plant, night-scented lily, new guinea shield, and taro.
BY Dr Craig Zavitz
Fitness motivators DO YOU want to be more active, but have trouble getting motivated? Starting a new habit and sticking to it is difficult for many people. So many things get in the way, and your favourite comfy chair or television programme can look very attractive after a long, busy day. But did you know that fitting in just 15 minutes of focused activity each day can start you on the way to an energized lifestyle? Who knows where it will take you! Here are some tips to help you get you started. 1. Visit www.fitin15.ca Fit-in 15 is an interactive, web-based programme developed by Canada’s Doctors of Chiropractic, experts in muscle and joint function, and champions of healthy living. Fitin15.ca has motivational tools and easy no-cost, no-equipment ideas for getting active. Once fitting in 15 minutes becomes a regular part of your day,
you may find yourself fitting in more.
2. Have a distraction Research studies show that people who have a distraction are more likely to stick with a fitness activity than people who don’t. Brisk walking outdoors provides its own distractions. The scenery and street activity will keep your senses occupied while your feet keep you moving. If you are fitting in your 15 minutes indoors, listen to the radio, play music you enjoy, or work-out while watching your favourite TV programme. 3. Have a buddy Research studies also tell us that people who get active with a buddy find it easier to stay active. Invite your partner, a friend, neighbour or relative, one of your children, or the family dog to join you for a 15-minute walk or workout. Make it a time to talk, laugh and connect.
4. Pick a specific time of day Decide on the best time of day to set aside your fifteen minutes so it becomes something to look forward to and you can schedule other activities around it. Keep to your scheduled time as much as possible. 5. Try not to miss a day Think of fitting in 15 minutes as a regular daily activity – like taking a shower in the morning. It can be easy to find reasons not to fit in 15 – there are always so many other things to do. But the more you fit it in, the easier it gets, until you hardly have to think about it. If you miss a day or two, don’t give up; just fit it in again as soon as you can.
Dr Zavitz is in Providenciales on Monday, February 9, to Wednesday, February 18.
January 24 - 30, 2015
Lifestyle...
Evening makeup tips EVENING makeup can be bold, sultry and dramatic. This is the time to try a dark smoky eye with a soft lip colour or a winged liner with bold lips. The important aspect of doing any makeup look is to emphasise one area of the face like the eyes OR the lips, never both. Here are a few tips on evening makeup applications: Brows Shape, define and fill in the brows with a pencil and/or powder and
brush through gently to blend and distribute the product evenly. Conceal brows for a more defined shape and be sure to blend it out well. Eyes If making your lips the main focus, you can do the following: Eye shadow - Apply soft colours to the eyes to define the crease and highlight the brow bone. Eyeliner - Apply dark coloured liner on the water line and winged liner above the eyes near the lash line. Your winged liner can be a bit
Coconut oil in your bathroom cabinet INGREDIENTS in beauty products tend to be overlooked when people have concerns not only about their health but also about the health of the planet, so it’s worth stopping and taking a closer look at just what lurks in that bottle of body wash or moisturiser. Many ingredients can cause an array of problems and include carcinogens and endocrine disruptors and with over 1,000 chemicals already banned in the European Union you might wonder why only about 10 have been banned from beauty products in the USA. A website by the Environmental Working Group lists many products available on the market today and is a great resource when trying to navigate the minefield of information available. Check it out at www.ewg. org/skindeep/. If you want to transition one step at a time to a more natural and safer way of personal hygiene it doesn’t get much better than coconut oil. Not only is this safe and natural
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
oil great for use the kitchen it has an array of uses in the bathroom too. Coconut oil makes a great moisturiser for both the face and body and smells good. Any residue on your hands after applying can be rubbed through the hair as a leave in conditioner and is also great for de-frizzing dryer hair. It makes a great massage oil and I always take my own supply whenever I go for a massage to avoid the problem of unknown ingredients in the salon’s preferred choice. You can also wash your face and body with coconut oil and it is a very effective and gentle way of removing make up. You can also go one step further and add a little baking soda and homemade aloe vera gel for a super effective body scrub. Coconut oil is highly beneficial for dental health and one option is to use it for ‘oil pulling’ which is a technique of swishing oil around
Makeup and skin care Thea Lowe-Gangasingh is a professional makeup artist based in Providenciales certified with Chic Studios NYC. To book an appointment for any occasion with Thea Makeup Artistry email info@theamakeupartistry.com or call 242-4627.
Thea LoweGangasingh
Eyeliner - Apply dark coloured liner on the water line and winged liner above the eyes near the lash line. Face Apply foundation to the centre of the face and then blend outwards making sure not to forget the neck. If you want you can skip foundation altogether and spot conceal any blemishes or problem areas including under the eyes. When finished, set with a bit of translucent powder. thicker and longer for evening time. Mascara - Curl and define lashes then apply a few coats of black mascara to the top and bottom lashes. To make your eyes the main focus of your look, you can do the following: Eye shadow - Apply eye shadows in deep rich colours rather than a heavy application of product. You can also use a bit of shimmer on the lid ensuring it does not go into and
above the crease. Remember to clean up underneath your eyes with a bit of makeup remover when using dark colours or glitter as there is usually fall-out which when mixed with foundation causes the colour to get muddled and the glitter to spread. Mascara - To amp up the drama, curl lashes and apply a few coats of black mascara to your top and bottom lashes
Blush Apply a richer shade of blush to the apples of the cheeks and blend out and upwards making sure there are no visible lines. Lips If your eyes are the main focus, go for a sheer lip gloss or a soft shade of lipstick. If you want your lips to be the main focus, go for a richer shade of lipstick.
ECO Tip Lynn Robinson has lived in the Turks and Caicos Islands for 12 years and works at Big Blue Unlimited as a diving instructor, eco guide and boat captain. She is passionate about the environment and does regular beach clean ups while walking her three potcakes. Her other passion is running and can often be seen training for marathons and ultra-marathons.
your mouth for about 10 minutes to draw out toxins from your body before spitting out. Toothpaste can also be made by mixing 50/50 coconut oil and baking soda and a dash of peppermint oil for
that minty fresh feeling. Because coconut oil is antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal it can be a huge help in skin problems including athlete’s foot, eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis and
By Lynn Robinson
has been known to help reduce and clear acne. “Our past, our present, and whatever remains of our future, absolutely depend on what we do now,” - Sylvia Earle, oceanographer.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Science & Technology
January 24 - 30, 2015
Fitness ‘rubs off on your partner’ WHETHER you want to lose weight, quit smoking or exercise more, you have a better chance of success if your partner shares your goal, research suggests. The British study looked at data from more than 3,700 married or cohabiting couples aged 50 and older. Men and women were three times or more likely to achieve their resolution when their partner joined in the challenge. Experts say campaigns could capitalise on this “rubbing off” effect. The study did not look at whether unhealthy partners might drag someone down. Many studies suggest that our partners can have a big influence on our behaviour and our health. Happily married or cohabiting people appear to have a lower risk of heart disease and better cancer outcomes, for example. But it is not clear whether this is because people mirror their partners’ good behaviour or because we tend to pair off with people who are similarly healthy or unhealthy to us. The latest study in Jama Internal Medicine set out to investigate this. The University College London team selected men and women who were in a cohabiting relationship and who had unhealthy behaviours - either being a smoker, being overweight or doing too little exercise - at the start of the study. The researchers tracked the behaviours of these individuals and their partners over four years, noting if any of them quit smoking, lost weight or became more active. They found that when one half of the couple changed to a healthier
Health Minister Dr. Perry Gomez said that the Okyanos Heart Institute was “state-of-the-art and the most sophisticated ‘Cath Lab’ in the entire English-speaking Caribbean.”
Men and women were three times or more likely to achieve their resolution when their partner joined in the challenge.
lifestyle, the other person was more likely to make a similar lifestyle change. Seeing an unhealthy partner make a change provided the biggest impetus for an individual to do the same, but living with someone already healthier than themselves also appeared to act as an encouragement. For example, a smoker was twice as likely to quit if their partner was a non-smoker but 10 times more likely to quit if their partner smoked but decided to quit too. Similarly, living with a sporty partner prompted individuals to get active, but not as much as seeing a loved one change from a couch potato to an active lifestyle. Researcher Dr Sarah Jackson said the findings could help inform public health campaigns. “This is important because it shows that if you can target couples or encourage people to involve their partners they may be more likely to succeed. Having the support of someone close seems to help.”
The government’s Change4Life campaign focuses on getting whole families to be more active and eat healthily, but other campaigns have focused on the individual. Dr Mike Knapton, from the British Heart Foundation which part-funded Dr Jackson’s work, said: “This is an interesting study and reinforces the notion that your relationships play a key role in your health.” Dr Julie Sharp, Cancer Research UK’s head of health information, said getting support could help people take up good habits. “For example, if you want to lose weight and have a friend or colleague who’s trying to do the same thing, you could encourage each other by joining up for a run or a swim at lunchtime or after work. And local support such as stop smoking services are very effective at helping people to quit. “Keeping healthy by not smoking, maintaining a healthy body weight and being active can all lower the risk of cancer, and the more people can help and encourage each other, the better.” (BBC)
Bahamas eyes future as stem cell hub THE Bahamas has big plans for stem cell medicine. The country’ has officially launched its “stem cell industry,” Health Minister Dr Perry Gomez announced at a ceremony last week. The first stem cell operation to have received provisional approval by the government is the Okyanos Heart Institute in Grand Bahama, which Gomez said was “state-of-theart and the most sophisticated ‘Cath Lab’ in the entire English-speaking Caribbean.” The stem cell industry uses stem cells to provide therapy for patients of various ailments; at Okyanos, for example, the facility uses adult cells harvested from adult adipose, or fat, tissue for cardiac therapy. “The Stem Cell industry is not only research and therapy, but it has ushered in a new era of quality standards, monitoring, analysis and evaluating, utilizing cutting-edge healthcare information with real time technology,” Gomez said. “The
possibilities are endless [with] the Bahamas poised to reap the many benefits of Stem Cell research for years to come.” Stem cells are able to transform into a number of different kinds of cells in the body, hence their vast potential for medical treatment. In order to practice stem cell medicine in the Bahamas, approved facilities must “meet standards of the highest quality in all aspects of professional best practices,” according to the country’s government. “Stem Cell research represents one of the most exciting and promising frontiers for treating people with a myriad of diseases and conditions (and along with Stem Cell therapy) represents perhaps the greatest opportunity to fulfill the ancient call to heal the sick, relieve suffering and improve the quality of life for untold millions of people,” Gomez said. (Tribune242)
E-Cigs Have 15 Times More Cancer Causing Chemical Than Cigarettes When e-cigs first became popular they were seen as a healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes. A new report shows you may want to think twice before you use them. NBC Right Now is taking a closer look at the new dangers associated with these devices. One reason cigarettes are known to be unhealthy are from the carcinogens like formaldehyde. A new report from the New England Journal of Medicine shows electronic cigarettes could have up to 15 times more of these cancer causing chemicals.
When the devices are heated up at a high level the carcinogens are released in a vapor form, which is more effective getting into your lungs than in a gas form with cigarettes. Medical experts aren’t saying the e-cigarettes are more dangerous just yet. This is just one chemical and there are more than about 8,000 chemicals in most tobacco smoke. “Whether or not this proves that it will cause lung cancer it’s going to take a number of years to show that. It took many many years to
show that cigarettes were not good for your health either so, we’re going to have to see what happens,” said Medical Director at the Tri-Cities Cancer Center Dr. Sue Mandell. The Tri-Cities Cancer Center used to show e-cigs during classes to help people stop smoking. Now they say they’ve strayed from it because the products aren’t FDA approved and many health risks are just unknown at this time. Exposure to these types of carcinogens has been linked to throat and nasal cancers as well as forms of leukemia.
When e-cigs first became popular they were seen as a healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes. A new report shows you may want to think twice before you use them.
January 24 - 30, 2015
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Science & Technology
Drugs in dirt: Scientists appeal for help US scientists are asking the public to join them in their quest to mine the Earth’s soil for compounds that could be turned into vital new drugs. Spurred on by the recent discovery of a potential new antibiotic in soil, the Rockefeller University team want to check dirt from every country in the world. They have already begun analysing samples from beaches, forests and deserts across five continents. But they need help getting samples. Which is where we all come in.
of thousands of samples. What we really want is a couple of thousand from some really unique places that could contain some really interesting stuff. So it’s not really your garden soil we are after, although that will have plenty of bacteria in it too.” He said they would also be interested to hear from schools and colleges that might want to get involved in the project. From the 185 samples they have tested so far there are some promising results, the researchers say in the journal eLife.
CITIZEN SCIENCE On their Drugs From Dirt website, they say: “The world is a big place and we can’t get get to all of the various corners of it. “We would like some assistance in sampling soil from around the world. If this sounds interesting to you - sign up.” They want to hear from people from all countries and are particularly keen to receive samples from unique, unexplored environments such as caves, islands, and hot springs. Such places, they say, could house the holy grail - compounds produced by soil bacteria that are entirely new to science. Researcher Dr Sean Brady told the BBC: “We are not after hundreds
BIOSYNTHETIC DARK MATTER Dr Brady and colleagues have found compounds that might yield better derivatives of existing drugs. In a hot spring sample from New Mexico, they found compounds similar to those that produce epoxamicin - a natural molecule used as the starting point for a number of cancer drugs. In samples from Brazil, they found genes that might offer up new versions of another important cancer drug called bleomycin. And in soils from the American southwest, they hope to find compounds similar to the drug rifamycin that could help with
Sitting will kill you, even if you exercise ONE of your favourite activities may actually be killing you. Our entire modern world is constructed to keep you sitting down. When we drive, we sit. When we work at an office, we sit. When we watch TV, well, you get the picture. And yet, a new study that’s running in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that this kind of sedentary behaviour increases our chances of getting a disease or a condition that will kill us prematurely, even if we exercise. Researchers from Toronto came to this conclusion after analyzing 47 studies of sedentary behavior. They adjusted their data to incorporate the amount someone exercises and found that the sitting we typically do in a day still outweighs the benefit we get from exercise. Of course, the more you exercise, the lower the impact of sedentary behaviour. The studies showed sedentary behaviour can lead to death from cardiovascular issues and cancer as well as cause chronic
conditions such as Type 2 diabetes. Physical inactivity has been identified as the fourthleading risk factor for death for people all around the world, according to the World Health Organisation. Prolonged sitting, meaning sitting for eight to 12 hours or more a day, increased your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 90%. The study authors did make some simple suggestions to help you sit less. One is to just be aware of how much you are sitting. That way you can make a goal of reducing that number a little bit each week. If you are work, you could try a standing desk or make it a goal to stand up or walk around for a minute or three once every half an hour. If you watch TV at night, don’t zoom ahead during the commercials with your DVR. Instead walk around or at least stand up during the show break. (CNN)
Samples have already been taken from a lake near the Seward mountains in Alaska.
treatment-resistant tuberculosis. Many of the drugs we use today came out of dirt - the antibiotics penicillin and vancomycin to name just two. Uncultured bacteria from the environment could provide a dazzling array of new molecules, many of which could become new medicines, say the research team.
There are more microbes in a teaspoon of soil than there are humans on earth, and only a tiny fraction have been cultured, they say. Dr Brady, head of the Laboratory of Genetically Encoded Small Molecules, said: “We hope that efforts to map nature’s microbial and chemical diversity will result in the discovery of both completely
new medicines and better versions of existing medicines.” The scientists are beginning to identify hotspots around the globe where diverse soil bacteria can be found. “The unbelievable diversity we found is a first step towards our dream of building a world map of chemicals produced by microbes similar to Google Earth’s and others’ maps of the world’s geography,” says Dr Brady. Other scientists have been mining the sea bed for undiscovered drug candidate molecules. Prof Marcel Jaspars from Aberdeen University has analysed over 1,500 bacterial strains from the bottom of the ocean, some millions of years old, and says 15 strains look promising. “It’s beginning to get quite interesting. We will soon go the Atacama Trench off the coast of Chile to look there. It’s a unique environment. It’s about 8,000m deep and really high in organic matter.” (BBC)
Laughing Gas Now Becoming Popular Option for Women Giving Birth A Minneapolis mom who wanted a natural birth was more than 13 hours into labor when she felt she wasn’t going to make it without something to take the edge off the pain. But rather than asking for an epidural or narcotics, she begged for laughing gas. “It immediately took my fear away and helped calm me down, though I could still feel the pain,” Megan Goodoien, who gave birth at the Minnesota Birthing Center this month, told ABC News today. “I didn’t laugh because the labor was so intense, but I everything suddenly felt doable just when I thought I couldn’t make it anymore. It’s definitely a mental thing.” Though nitrous oxide has long been used in European countries and Canada, the gas is now making a resurgence in the U.S., according to medical experts. The gas, once popular in the U.S., was sidelined after the advent of the epidural in the 1930’s, midwife Kerry Dixon told ABC News, noting she believes epidurals took over because they were more profitable. Dixon did not treat Goodoien but works at the Minnesota Birthing Center. “The average cost for a woman opting for nitrous oxide is less than a $100, while an epidural can run up to $3,000 because of extra anesthesia fees,” Dixon said. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved new nitrous oxide equipment for delivery room use in 2011, which could also
Megan Goodoien, a Minneapolis mom who used nitrous oxide during delivery, is pictured here with her baby after delivery on Jan. 11, 2015.
explain the resurgence, Dixon told ABC News. “Maybe 10 years ago, less than five or 10 hospitals used it [for women in labor],” Dr. William Camann, director of obstetric anesthetics at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, told ABC News. “Now, probably several hundred. It’s really exploded. Many more hospitals are expressing interest.” He added the gas popular in dentists’ offices has an “extraordinary safety record” in delivery rooms outside the U.S. But more studies are needed to confirm its safety, other doctors say.
Family Blames Medication for Death of Girl Who Refused Chemotherapy Laughing gas works differently than an epidural or narcotic in that it targets pain more on a mental level than n physical, experts said. “It’s a relatively mild pain reliever that causes immediate feelings of relaxation and helps relieve anxiety,” Camman said. “It makes you better able to cope with whatever pain you’re having.” But gas can also change awareness, said Dr. Jennifer Ashton, a senior medical contributor for ABC News and practicing OB/GYN.
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Regional News
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Haiti’s new ‘consensus’ government sworn in TWENTY ministers and 12 secretaries of state in Haiti have delivered their oath of office at the National Palace in the capital Portau-Prince. President Michel Martelly praised the “pluralism” at the centre of the new government and said it was down to the “goodwill” of the opposition. He had been ruling by decree since last Tuesday, when parliament was dissolved. But opposition leaders have accused the president of failing to deliver in forming a consensus government. Haiti’s new government is headed up by Prime Minister Evans Paul, a former mayor of Port-au-Prince and an unsuccessful contender in the 2006 presidential elections when he received just 2.5% of the vote. Among the newly sworn-in ministers are six members of the previous cabinet, including the ministers for foreign affairs, health and defence. The new line-up also includes
President Michel Martelly (centre) and Prime Minister Evans Paul (right) at the swearing in ceremony.`
allies of the president appointed to key positions, such as Planning Minister Yves Germain Joseph and Secretary of State for Public Security Carel Alexandre. President Martelly has been in power since 2011 and has pledged not to change the constitution to seek a second term. His opponents accuse him of
using the current crisis to promote his own candidate to succeed him in elections later this year. Haiti remains heavily dependent on US financial aid, it is the poorest nation in the western hemisphere and is still recovering from a devastating earthquake in January 2010, in which large parts of the capital were destroyed. (BBC)
Barbados opposition walks out of Parliament, calls for Speaker to recuse himself OPPOSITION legislators Tuesday walked out of the Parliament demanding that the Speaker Michael Carrington not preside over the legislature until a court matter in which he is involved is settled. Opposition Leader Mia Mottley told a news conference that “it is our view that the Speaker should not be in the chair until these matters are resolved. “The Barbados Labour Party … position is very clear. The Speaker ought to recuse himself from the Chair until this matter is resolved,” she said, noting that anytime the Deputy Speaker is in the Chair, the opposition legislators would remain. “Until this issue is resolved we believe that the Speaker of the House should not seek to hold the Chair and that he should recuse himself until such time as this matter is resolved either by the Committee of Privileges one way,” she said adding that most “Barbadians have come to their own judgment on this matter”. During last week’s sitting, Leader of Opposition Business Santia Bradshaw brought the issue of Carrington’s professional conduct before the House. At the time, the Speaker recused himself. A High Court judge has ruled that Carrington has to repay a client more than BDS$200,000 (One BDS
Opposition Leader Mia Mottley told a news conference that “it is our view that the speaker should not be in the chair until these matters are resolved. (File photo)
Dollar =US$0.50 cents) received for payment of land. Mottley said the Committee of Privileges had its first meeting on the issue on Monday “but there is a feeling that the dignity of parliament is offended when we continue to act as if nothing has happened. “This is not a newspaper report on which we are acting. This is a judgment of the High Court and this is not any ordinary member. This is the Speaker of the House, who in fact leads the Chamber and who was traditionally the King
or Queen’s representative in the Chamber”. Mottley told reporters “in the circumstances we feel that the dignity of Parliament is offended if we do not appear to act as a standard that the country and the people of the country have made clear that they expect us to act with”. The Opposition Leader said this is not a case of anybody owing money, “this is a case of fundamental trust and the Speaker’s Chair is one in which there is also need for us to have fundamental trust”.
January 24 - 30, 2015
Bahamas set to make green push THE BAHAMAS is planning a major new green push. The 700-island archipelago is set to launch a wide solar energy project, according to Environment Minister Kenred Dorsett, who was addressing the fifth session of the assemblies of the International Renewal Energy Agency in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. As part of its participation in the Carbon War Room’s Ten Island Challenge, the Bahamas will advance 20 megawatts of solar utility-scale farms on “several islands” in the archipelago this year, Dorsett said. That would be among the largest solar initiatives in the
wider Caribbean region. The country’s Parliament has recently been debating an amendment to the electricity act which would allow for grid connection and incorporate renewables in the Bahamas’ energy matrix, he said. Indeed, the Bahamas Electricity Corporation (which is owned by the government) has already prepared a renewable energy power purchase/ interconnection agreement that would provide the framework for both residential and certain commercial customers capable of renewable energy generation to connect to the grid. (CaribJournal)
Bahamas: Police statistics show decrease in serious crime DESPITE a three per cent increase in murder last year, Police Commissioner Ellison Greenslade said earlier this week that serious crimes in the Bahamas decreased by 18 per cent in 2014 compared to 2013. According to police statistics, released by Mr Greenslade, the decrease in serious crimes was influenced by decreases in manslaughter, rape, attempted rape, unlawful sexual intercourse, armed robbery and robbery, which all decreased by 25 per cent, 29 per cent, 45 per cent, 33 per cent, 10 per cent and 4 per cent respectively. The commissioner said despite the best efforts of the police, the Bahamas still recorded 123 murders, an increase of 3 per cent over the figure of 119 that was recorded in 2013. He blamed prolific offenders for the high murder rate. “This is a troubling reality which has generated significant fear and cause for concern across the communities of the Bahamas,” he said at a press conference at police headquarters. “We have noted that a hardcore group of prolific offenders are one of the main reasons for the high murder rate. These prolific offenders are known to reoffend upon being released from prison and return to communities, after being charged with serious criminal offences, including murder and cause serious harm to people,” Mr Greenslade said. The commissioner said 65 persons were arrested and charged with murders committed in 2014 – a detection rate of 43 per cent. However, he said a number of
cases are currently being reviewed by detectives at the Central Detective Unit and further charges are expected to be brought against several persons who are being sought by police. He also said the detection rate is low because in some cases, the public is “not helpful”. According to the police figures, attempted murder rose 47 per cent, from 15 cases in 2013 to 22 cases in 2014. The category of attempted robbery also saw an increase of three per cent, from 30 cases in 2013 to 31 in 2014. Of the 123 murders recorded last year, 88 per cent or 108 were recorded in New Providence, 10 in Grand Bahama and five in the Family Islands. A handgun was used in 85 per cent of the murder cases, followed by knives, which were used in 7 per cent of homicides. Eighty-three murders, or 67 per cent, occurred on the streets and 15 per cent in a home. Fifty-eight murders occurred between the hours of 4pm and 12 midnight followed by 33 murders, which occurred between midnight and 8am. Most murders were committed on Sundays, 27 per cent, followed by Wednesday with 19 per cent. Of the murder victims last year, 16 were killed in May; 14 in April; 13 in August and December; 11 in January, March, October and November; eight in February; seven in July; and four in June and September. Retaliation was the main motive for murder in 2014 with 44 cases, followed by conflicts between individuals, 17, robbery 13, and drugs, 12. The statistics also show that crimes against property decreased overall by 20 per cent.
January 24 - 30, 2015
Regional News
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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St Kitts and Nevis PM Cayman may have to sanction dissolves parliament; same sex unions, expert says new elections soon ST KITTS and Nevis Prime Minister Dr Denzil Douglas has announced that he has advised Governor General Sir Edmund Lawrence to dissolve the twin-island federation’s Parliament. The move came after the country’s National Assembly’s proclamation that realigned the constituency boundaries of the country. Douglas said the proclamation was approved by a resolution of the National Assembly during an emergency session of Parliament. The dissolution of Parliament
means that general elections will soon follow. “The date of the general election in St Christopher and Nevis shall therefore be announced at a later date,” Douglas said in a statement released this weekend. Douglas has served as the country’s Prime Minister since 1995. He is currently serving his fourth term, the longest-serving head of government in the hemisphere. Douglas’ Labour Party’s most recent victory was in 2010. (Carib Journal)
Lecturers have refused to file the grades as they protest the non-payment of an estimated TT$87 million (One TT dollar=US$ 0.16 cents) in arrears owed to them.
THE CAYMAN Islands may soon be required to legally recognise civil partnerships between samesex couples, according to a senior international human rights professor. European courts are unlikely to require member states to sanction gay marriage, according to the expert, but they could mandate legal recognition of same-sex unions, affording gay couples many of the same rights as heterosexual married couples. Speaking to a packed court room in the first of a series of legal lectures organised by the students of the Truman Bodden Law School, Robert Wintemute, of King’s College London, said several Cayman Islands laws were already in breach of the European Convention on Human Rights and could be successfully challenged in court. He said the higher age of sexual consent for homosexuals, a law restricting group sex for gay people and lack of access to certain rights for couples – including the right for a gay partner to be listed as a dependant for immigration purposes – where all out of step with established rights under the convention. He said government was “lucky” that no one had yet challenged these laws in court because the government would have lost. The absence of specific antidiscrimination legislation for homosexuals in the Cayman Islands
Professor Robert Wintemute delivers his lecture. (PHOTO: JAMES WHITTAKER)
may also be open to legal challenge in the European courts, he added. A civil partnership law, allowing same sex couples to register their relationships and conferring most of the rights associated with marriage, is not yet a mandatory requirement for countries governed by the European convention – which includes Cayman because of its relationship with the U.K. But Mr. Wintemute said a test case in Italy could soon change that – creating a precedent which would apply in the Cayman Islands. “We’re heading in that direction. If the European Court of Human Rights says Italy has to have it that will mean Cayman Islands too,” he told the Cayman Compass.
“You can’t appeal and say we are the Cayman Islands, we are different, we have a different culture, they will have already taken that into account.” He said it would be in the country’s best interests to introduce a package of reforms updating its legislation to comply with the European Convention rather than waiting to be challenged in court. And he recommended legislators go one step further and introduce a civil partnership law and antidiscrimination legislation – steps that are not yet required by the convention but could soon become mandatory, depending on the outcome of upcoming cases. Currently, under Cayman Islands law, it is not an offense for an employer to dismiss a worker or a landlord to deny tenancy to someone because they are homosexual. Mr. Wintemute said protections under the Cayman Islands Constitution could potentially be cited in court to contest the absence of such legal protections. The absence of specific reference to homosexuality as grounds for discrimination in the Bill of Rights – a source of controversy and heated debate as a new constitution was being drafted prior to a 2009 referendum – would not stop courts from inferring that right as part of the broad intent of the discrimination clause, Mr, Wintemute believes.
Stranded in Jamaica after living in UK for 54 years UWI students block gates in LLOYD Bogle is living a nightmare. but all of that changed when he got The 64-year-old Jamaican, who to the airport. protest demanding 2014 grades has been living in England for the According to Bogle, after getting STUDENTS at the St. Augustine campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI) have blocked the gates to the institution demanding that they receive their grades from their exams last year. Lecturers have refused to file the grades as they protest the nonpayment of an estimated TT$87 million (One TT dollar=US$ 0.16 cents) in arrears owed to them. The West Indies Group of University Teachers (WIGUT) has said that the non-uploading of marks’ is still in effect “until a satisfactory response from Campus Senior Management is received concerning the payment of arrears in salaries”. Public Relations Officer with the Students Guild, Nikoli Edwards, said that the estimated 18,000 students have been caught in the middle of a dispute between the lecturers and management. He said while the Guild had no issue with the payment owed to the lecturers “our issue is with using us as a bargaining tool. “Outside of this present situation,
we support the lecturers and we have made that clear to WIGUT,” he said, adding that the UWI administration “needs to do whatever they need to do to get the money to pay off these lectures. “But to say we are standing hand in hand with the lecturers during this time that is not the case,” he said. “We will not allow the lecturers to continue to hold us at ransom, to hold us hostage over grades because you have regional and local students who need their grades and their transcripts in order to access funding.” He said there were students who cannot return to Trinidad and Tobago “unless they get funding from their institutions….” There had been media reports quoting Tertiary Education and Skills Training Minister Fazal Karim that the Trinidad and Tobago government had stepped in to pay the money owed. Karim said that senior officials of the ministry had met with WIGUT and the campus principal Professor Clement Sankat to address the matter.
past 54 years, is now stranded in the island after enjoying a two-week trip — his first back home in all that time. Bogle said his ordeal started on October 13, 2014 when he got to Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay to take a return flight to England, only to be told by Immigration officials that they could not allow him to leave. “I got the shock of my life when I was turned back and told by authorities that I would have to have a visa to leave the country,” said the distraughtlooking Bogle, who added that he was not aware of the travel requirement. The reason for that is that Bogle, since leaving Jamaica in 1962 when he was seven years old and just before the country achieved political independence from Britain, never applied for British citizenship. In fact, he said he didn’t renew his Jamaican passport until just before he travelled here on September 29, 2014. “Since I migrated at age seven I have never travelled and never had
Lloyd Bogles was told to apply for a UK visa to return to the country he had lived in for over five decades, his visa request was then denied.
any intention to. It was after I retired I decided to take a trip to Jamaica to see what the country was like,” Bogle told the Jamaica Observer earlier this week. “I knew no one in Jamaica; it was the first time I was travelling since I was seven,” Bogle emphasised on the verge of tears. He said the two-week holiday in Portland was like a dream come true,
over the shock of being told about the visa, he was on the verge of sleeping on the streets, as he had nowhere to go, neither did he know where he was. He said he managed to contact his mother in England and told her about his situation. She gave him the number for a Jamaican woman who once lived in England and told him to contact her for help. Bogle said it was through the kindness of this woman, who gave him a place to stay, that he has been able to survive. Acting on the advice from the Immigration officials, he made contact with the British High Commission in Kingston to apply for a visa and was given a list of documents he would need for the process. He said he contacted his mother, who brought the documents to Jamaica. “After I got the documents, I applied for the visa and, after waiting for some time, would receive another shock when I learnt that the visa was not approved,” Bogle told the Observer.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Kenny Adams from Do it Centre and Lime TCI’s Rachel Harvey prepare to reveal what is inside the box
January 24 - 30, 2015
Do It Centre representative Kenny Adams, Grace Bay Club’s Carlton Mills, Adelphine Pitter, general manager of West Bay Club, and Lime TCI’s Rachel Harvey
Thousands enter Christmas competition BY DAISY HANDFIELD
MORE than 2,000 entries were sent in for the fifth annual ‘What’s in the Box’ competition, but only five were announced as winners. A ceremony was held on Friday (December 16) at the Market Place roundabout on Leeward Highway in Providenciales to announce the
winners and reveal what was inside the huge red festive box. The grand prize winner was Jewel Selver who won a weekend getaway for two at Grace Bay Club. Antoinette Thomas came in second and walked off with a tool set from the Do It Centre. Joy Field Ridley was announced as the third place winner and received
a new account at First Caribbean International Bank with $500. Isaiah Gardiner was announced as the fourth place winner and received a smart phone from Lime while Kishma Mills won the fifth prize of a dinner for two at West Bay Club. According to Carlton Mills, manager for talent growth and local affairs at the Grace Bay Foundation,
there were more than 2,000 entries, with 956 people sending in the correct answer which was Bambarra Rum. “We just want to thank the public for participating in this initiative,” he said. He went on to say that proceeds will go towards buying tablet computers for Charles Hubert James Primary School and Adelaine Oemler Primary School in North Caicos.
Rachel Harvey, marketing manager for Lime TCI, said: “We are happy to be a part of the annual promotion. “I think it provides excitement during the Christmas period and persons battle with their wits to try and figure out what the clues mean and how soon they can guess the correct answers.”
Entertainment Gary Glitter trial: Woman tells of ‘sex attack’ A WOMAN who Gary Glitter is accused of trying to rape as a child “felt uncomfortable” at his presence in her bed, but did not want to be rude and push him away, a court has heard. The 70-year-old - real name Paul Gadd - is alleged to have crept into the youngster’s bed in 1975 as she slept. The woman told the court: “I didn’t like him being there. It felt strange.” Mr Gadd, from London, denies 10 charges relating to alleged sex offences against three girls from 1975 to 1980. John Price QC, prosecuting, asked the woman how she had felt, as a child, after the alleged attack. Speaking through tears, the woman told Southwark Crown Court: “I felt ashamed and embarrassed because by that age all your private areas become private. “I just felt ashamed and dirty.” She said that the day after Mr Gadd had been “just normal - like he always was before”. The former glam rock singer is said to have tried to assault the girl, who was aged under 10, as she slept
The chef said his signature had been forged on a document.
Ramsay loses High Court battle The former Glam Rock singer, whose real name is Paul Gadd, denies 10 charges.
next to a friend after a dinner party. Describing the alleged rape attempt, the woman said: “He put his arms around me - started to cover me - put his arms around the top of my body.” She added: “I didn’t like him being there. It just felt strange to have an adult in our bed. “It hadn’t happened before, and it just felt uncomfortable.” Mr Gadd is then said to have gone on to try to rape the girl. Asked why she had not tried to
push Mr Gadd away, the woman responded: “I didn’t want to be rude. “I thought he was probably only trying to cuddle me.” A number of years later she had felt compelled to tell her mother after the singer had invited her into a bedroom, the jury heard. She said Mr Gadd had asked her to give “Uncle Gary” a cuddle. “Until then I thought if we all forgot it, it would be like it hadn’t happened,” she said.
Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay has lost a High Court battle over being held personally liable for the rent on a London pub he bought. The pub deal took place when his father-in-law Christopher Hutcheson was working with him to build his restaurant empire. The chef said his signature had been forged on a document which made him the personal guarantor for the pub’s rent. He had accused Mr Hutcheson of using a ghost writer machine to do this. The machines are frequently used by authors to sign books and
photographs automatically. Mr Ramsay said the document made him liable for £640,000 annually for the York & Albany pub near Regent’s Park, north London. However, Mr Justice Morgan dismissed as “entirely implausible” Mr Ramsay’s claim he did not know the full extent of the use of the ghost machine. The judge said: “Accordingly, I find that Mr Ramsay knew, long before the entry into the agreement for lease and the lease of the premises, that the machine was routinely used to place his signature on legal documents.
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Thicke: ‘I’m sure Bill Cosby must have been a bad boy’ ALAN Thicke is speaking out about fellow TV dad Bill Cosby, admitting that he believes he might be guilty. In a Monday interview with the Toronto Star, the “Growing Pains” star said he was inclined to believe the allegations of sexual assault lodged against the embattled comedian by multiple women over the past few decades. “There is no doubt in my mind Bill Cosby was a bad boy,” he said. “When there’s that much conversation. When there’s that much smoke, there must be some fire,” he added. “I’m sure that Bill must have been a bad boy. I think the issue will be to what degree.” Thicke and Cosby both
Alan Thicke, top right, played Jason Seaver on ‘80s sitcom ‘Growing Pains.’ Prior to portraying a TV dad, Thicke worked with Cosby on his variety show ‘Cos.’
starred in popular ‘80s family sitcoms “Growing Pains” and “The Cosby Show,” respectively. Prior to playing
TV patriarchs, Thicke also worked as a producer on Cosby’s 1970s variety show “Cos.”
Thicke made sure to note that despite believing the allegations to some degree, he never personally saw the TV star do anything questionable. “In my history with Bill, I saw absolutely nothing of the controversy around him now. I just saw a guy who was doing his job.” The Canadian actor, who is the father of pop star Robin Thicke, also said he wasn’t sure how to prove the allegations against Cosby. “I have trouble in where do you draw the line between consent and rape. Where you have cases of someone going back for the third or first time. When did you get your first clue he wasn’t right? It’s such a serious issue, I wish I could trust the veracity of all the complaints.” He also told the Star that he considered Cosby a friend, but hadn’t spoken with him since the claims received increased media scrutiny in recent months. “It’s difficult going forward. But he does have a great legacy as well, that Bill was really one of the guys who really rescued the sitcom after the success of his show.”
Lindsay Lohan is reported to have contracted the disease during a holiday trip to Bora-Bora.
Lohan hospitalised in London with Chikungunya LINDSAY Lohan is in a London hospital battling a mosquito-borne virus contracted during a holiday trip to Bora-Bora. “She could hardly stand up, she was in so much pain,” a source close to the “Mean Girls” star told the Daily News Wednesday. “But she’s in a great hospital now. It’s the one recommended by the queen,” the source said, adding that Lohan recently was in Los Angeles shooting a commercial for Esurance. Lohan, 28, checked into King Edward VII’s Hospital with a high fever and joint pain, TMZ.com first reported. “She was getting better, but with all the traveling, it wore her down, so the virus
acted up again. It was like a relapse,” the source close to Lohan told The News. Lohan previously revealed on social media that she contracted Chikungunya on her island getaway. The CDC recently issued a Chikungunya advisory to travelers, saying more than 51,100 cases of the disease have been reported in French Polynesia since the start of an outbreak in October. There are no antiviral medicines to treat the disease, only medicines to reduce the fever and pain. Most patients feel better within a week, but some may develop long-term joint pain, the CDC warns.
American Sniper shoots to top of US box office Valentine will be celebrating two days this year, Friday February 13th and Saturday 14th February 2015. Please place your order now to avoid the rush at the Flower Girl located on Leeward Highway, we have the ideal Gift Baskets and Floral Arrangements at unbeatable prices.
AMERICAN Sniper has topped the US box office with takings of $90m (£59m) - a record for a January opening following the film’s six Oscar nominations last week. The war drama, directed by Clint Eastwood, is up for best picture and best actor for star Bradley Cooper, who plays real life Navy Seal Chris Kyle. Action comedy The Wedding Ringer opened in second place with $21m (£14m). British family film Paddington came third with $19.3m (£12.8m). American Sniper jumped from 21st place at last weekend’s US box office, after a limited release in just a few screens. It is now Eastwood’s most successful film opening as director, beating Gran Torino’s 2008 opening of $29.5m (£19.5m), and performed twice
Bradley Cooper has been nominated for best actor at the Oscars for his role in American Sniper.
as well as studio estimates according to Reuters. The Wedding Ringer, which stars Kevin Hart as a best man for hire, achieved its successful opening weekend despite being panned by critics. Last week’s number one, Liam Neeson’s action sequel Taken 3, fell to fourth place. US cinemas were especially busy during the three-day
Martin Luther King Day holiday weekend. Martin Luther King drama Selma, which was nominated for two Oscars including best picture, was in fifth place. The Imitation Game which landed eight Oscar nominations - also made the top 10, along with Disney musical Into the Woods, the final Hobbit film and Angelina Jolie’s Unbroken.
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Hart says he won’t play a gay man KEVIN Hart has played a businessman, a security guard and even a boxing promoter, but one role you might never see him take on is a gay character. In a recent interview with
“The Breakfast Club” on Power 105.1, Hart said he just wasn’t comfortable portraying a homosexual character on screen. “No — not because I have any ill will or disrespect,”
Kevin Hart will not play a gay character anytime soon.
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the 35-year old comedian explained. “It’s because ... I don’t think I’m really going to dive into that role 100% because of insecurities about myself trying to play that part. Does that make sense? Like, what I think people are going to think while I’m trying to do this is going to stop me from playing that part the way that I’m supposed to.” The actor also told the New York hip hop radio station that he had turned down a gig as a gay character in 2008 comedy “Tropic Thunder.” Hart said he declined the role of Alpa Chino, which was later given to Brandon T. Jackson, because the character was too “flagrant,” although in the final script of the movie, the character’s sexuality was much less obvious — with him only admitting he was gay at the end of the film. “In my defense — first of all, before I say this, I’m politically correct. To the gay
community, I respect and appreciate you for everything y’all do, and as people, I love you — the part was way more
... in the beginning, the dude was doing a lot of stuff in the draft that I read. I’m not saying it. It was real flagrant,”
the standup comedian said. “It was a lot of stuff, and I was like, ‘I can’t do this,’” he added.
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World News
AirAsia flight QZ8501 ‘climbed too fast’ THE AirAsia flight that crashed in the Java Sea, killing 162 people, climbed too fast before stalling, Indonesia’s transport minister has said. Ignasius Jonan told a parliamentary hearing in Jakarta that flight QZ8501 had ascended at a speed of 6,000ft (1,828m) per minute. He said it was not normal for a passenger jet to climb so fast. There were no survivors when the plane crashed on 28 December en route from Surabaya to Singapore. The Airbus A320-200 is thought to have encountered difficulties from an approaching storm. Only 53 bodies have been retrieved so far from the crash area, where debris was scattered across the sea. ‘FASTER THAN A FIGHTER’ Mr Jonan told the hearing that radar data from the moments before the plane was lost revealed its speed of ascent. “It is not normal to climb like that. It’s very rare for commercial planes, which normally climb just 1,000 to 2,000 feet per minute,” he said. “It can only be done by a fighter
The opposition accuses the government of trying to stage a “constitutional coup”.
DR Congo unrest: Catholic Church backs protests Investigators examining the tail of AirAsia flight QZ8501.
jet.” When planes stall, their engines do not cut out but the wings no longer generate lift because there is not enough air passing over them, BBC transport correspondent Richard Westcott says. This normally happens when the nose is pointing upwards for too long during a climb. Mr Jonan’s comments come after
the plane’s cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder were found last week. The fuselage of the plane, believed to hold most of the remaining bodies, has also been located and search teams are now working out how to retrieve it. Investigators have already said it is unlikely the crash was caused by terrorism. (BBC)
Cameron defends letter to Islamic leaders DAVID Cameron has defended a letter urging senior Muslims to explain how Islam “can be part of British identity”, amid criticism from leaders. The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) criticised some aspects of the letter, including the “implication that extremism takes place at mosques”. Mr Cameron said the letter, written by Communities Secretary Eric Pickles, was “reasonable, sensible and moderate” The letter was sent to 1,000 Muslim leaders after the attacks in Paris. The prime minister said Mr Pickles was “absolutely right” to write the letter urging leaders to do more to tackle extremism. “Anyone who reads this letter - and I’ve read the letter - will see that what he is saying is that British Muslims make a great contribution to our country, that what is happening in terms of extremist terror has nothing to do with the true religion of Islam,” he said. “It’s being perverted by a minority who have been radicalised.” ‘PROUD OF YOUR COUNTRY’ In the letter, Mr Pickles stressed he was “proud” of the way Muslims in Britain had responded to the Paris terror attacks but added that there
THE Catholic Church in the Democratic Republic of Congo has thrown its weight behind protests against President Joseph Kabila extending his rule. It called on people to peacefully oppose his move to delay presidential elections until a census is held. At least 11 people have so far been been killed in the protests. It is the worst unrest in the capital, Kinshasa, since the riots which broke out after Mr Kabila won a second term in disputed elections in 2011. Mr Kabila, who first took power in 2001 following the assassination of his father Laurent, is constitutionally barred from running for another term in elections due next year. ‘DORMITORIES ABLAZE’ The opposition says government plans for a census are a ploy to delay the poll so that he can hang on to power. The government admits the
election could be delayed, but says the census is vital to ensure polls are free and fair. The Catholic Church, the largest in DR Congo, has shut its schools as violent protests continued in Kinshasa for a third day. The BBC’s Maud Julien reports from the city that security forces and protesters clashed again at the government-run University of Kinshasa, the focal point of protests. Demonstrators told her that security forces fired live ammunition, killing four of them. There is no independent confirmation of this. During a visit to the campus, she saw many buildings gutted by fire, including dormitories for female students. Windows had been shattered, and the impact of bullets was clearly visible. Radio France International, the main foreign broadcaster in DR Congo, has been pulled off air, our reporter says.
BP boss: Oil prices ‘low for up to three years’ The letter was sent to 1,000 Muslim leaders after the attacks in Paris.
was “more work to do”. He wrote: “You, as faith leaders, are in a unique position in our society. You have a precious opportunity, and an important responsibility, in explaining and demonstrating how faith in Islam can be part of British identity. “We believe together we have an opportunity to demonstrate the true nature of British Islam today. There is a need to lay out more clearly than ever before what being a British Muslim means today: proud of your faith and proud of your country. We know that acts of extremism are not representative of Islam, but we need to show what is.” But MCB secretary general Shuja Shafi said Mr Pickles’ letter “could
have been worded differently”. In his reply to the communities secretary, he wrote: “We take the point that your letter was written in good faith, and we agree with your assertion that British values are indeed Islamic values. “However, we do take issue with the implication that extremism takes place at mosques, and that Muslims have not done enough to challenge the terrorism that took place in our name. “This is why we responded to the media, and an assertion in some quarters, that you were somehow endorsing the idea that Muslims and Islam are inherently apart from British society. We reject such notions.
THE boss of oil giant BP’s boss Bob Dudley has said that oil prices could remain low for up to three years. He added that could send UK petrol prices below £1 per litre. He told BBC Business editor Kamal Ahmed in Davos BP was planning for low oil prices for years to come. That is expected to lead to job losses and falling investment in the North Sea oil industry and elsewhere, curbing supply and eventually forcing the price back up. Italian oil group Eni has said the next spike could be around $200 a barrel. Eni’s chief executive, Claudio Descalzi, said the oil industry would cut capital spending by 10-13% this year because of slumping prices. He said that would create longerterm shortages and sharp price rises in four to five years’ time, if the Opec
cartel fails to cut supplies. Mr Descalzi was speaking at the World Economic Forum in the Swiss resort of Davos. Mr Dudley said historically world oil prices have fluctuated, and sometimes have remained low for a number of years. He expects to see current low prices for at least a year, and that BP has to plan for that. “Companies like us, at BP, we’re going to need to rebase the company based on no guarantees at all that the price will come back up,” he said. “We have go to plan on this [price] being down, and we don’t know exactly what level, but certainly a year, I think probably two and maybe three years.” From 2010 until mid-2014, oil prices around the world were fairly stable, at around $110 a barrel.
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World News
Ukraine conflict: US accuses rebels of ‘land grab’
Injured people were treated at the scene of the attack.
Israel bus attack: Tel Aviv passengers stabbed
ISRAELI police say they have shot a Palestinian man from the West Bank who stabbed at least 11 people in an attack on a bus in central Tel Aviv. The incident occurred on Maariv bridge where the suspect attacked people both on and outside the bus, police said. Police say they are treating the incident as a terrorist attack. The perpetrator attempted to flee the scene following the attack, and was lightly wounded after being shot in the leg, a police spokeswoman said. Three of the victims were in a serious condition, with the others moderately or lightly wounded, according to the ambulance services. Officers are patrolling the area to prevent further attacks, police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said on his Twitter account. Police officials said that the suspect was an illegal worker from Tulkarem, a town in the occupied
West Bank. The 23-year-old said he had carried out the attack in response to Israel’s military operations in Gaza last year, and tensions over access to religious sites in the old city of Jerusalem, police added. More than 2,100 Palestinians were killed in Gaza during the conflict in July and August last year. The majority of those killed were civilians, according to the UN. Sixty-seven Israeli soldiers, and six civilians in Israel, were also killed. Wednesday’s attack took place during the morning rush hour. “The terrorist stabbed the bus driver several times but the driver fought back until he [the suspect] fled on foot and was neutralised by a guard from the prisons’ service,” a police statement said. Eyewitnesses said the driver fought back by using pepper spray on the attacker.
Paris Mayor to sue Fox News over Muslim claims
THE mayor of Paris has said she will sue Fox News for its inaccurate reporting about the city following the attack on the magazine Charlie Hebdo. The US network claimed there were “no-go areas” in the French capital where police and nonMuslims refused to go. Anne Hidalgo said the people of Paris had been “insulted” and the city’s image had been “damaged”. The network has since apologised for making “regrettable errors” on air regarding the Muslim population. Ms Hidalgo told CNN: “When we’re insulted and when we’ve had an image, then I think we’ll have to sue. I think we’ll have to go to court, in order to have these words removed. “The image of Paris has been prejudiced, and the honour of Paris has been prejudiced.” In response, Fox News executive vice president Michael Clemente
US Secretary of State John Kerry has accused pro-Russian separatists in east Ukraine of a “blatant land grab”. He was speaking after reports that the rebels had extended the area they control, violating a ceasefire plan. Ukraine says Russia has more than 9,000 soldiers fighting alongside the rebels, a claim it denies. Meanwhile, foreign ministers from Ukraine, Russia, France and Germany issued a joint call to end the fighting, following talks in Berlin. Speaking after the meeting, German Foreign Minister FrankWalter Steinmeier said it was not a breakthrough “but I think we saw tangible progress”. He also said they had agreed on a procedure for pulling back heavy weapons 15km (nine miles) from a demarcation line defined in last year’s Minsk agreement. His Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov said, quoted by the Russian Interfax news agency, that if heavy weapons were withdrawn “we’ll be able to speak of a substantial deescalation of the current conflict”. ‘OCCUPATION BID’ Mr Kerry said the recent upsurge in fighting was “an alarming situation” adding that the US was “particularly concerned” by rebel moves to “attempt to gain control of a very significant rail juncture” in eastern Ukraine. He said there had been a large extension of the line of control that separates rebel-held territory from the rest of Ukraine. “This is a blatant land grab and is in direct contravention to the Minsk [ceasefire] agreements which they signed up to,” he added. The US ambassador to the UN, Samantha Power, accused Russia of escalating the violence. She said a new peace proposal by
Fighting in eastern Ukraine has worsened in recent days, despite the ceasefire plan agreed last September.
Russian President Vladimir Putin was little more than an attempt at military occupation. “The plan would seek to legitimise territorial gains made by separatists in September as well as Russian personnel and equipment on the territory of Ukraine,” she told a special meeting of the UN Security Council. “Let us pull the veil away from Putin’s peace plan and call it for what it is - a Russian occupation plan.” Mr Putin put forward the proposal last week but the Kremlin said Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko had rejected it. A spokesman for Mr Putin said the proposal called for a ceasefire and the withdrawal of heavy artillery by both sides. But Ms Power said the plan would free Russia from a commitment it made in Minsk, Belarus, last September to withdraw its fighters and return the control of the international border to Ukraine. More than 4,800 people have
been killed and some 1.2 million displaced since pro-Russian rebels seized parts of Luhansk and Donetsk regions in April. The move followed Russia’s annexation of Ukraine’s Crimea peninsula in March. Some of the fiercest clashes in recent days have centred on the airport in Donetsk city, which government troops and rebels have been fighting over for months. Unconfirmed reports late on Wednesday said defending Ukrainian forces had abandoned the ruined complex. There are also reports of a fresh separatist advance in an area north-west of the rebel-held city of Luhansk. Fighting is said to be centred on two checkpoints along a main road. On Wednesday, President Poroshenko said Russia had more than 9,000 troops and 500 tanks, heavy artillery and armoured personnel carriers in eastern Ukraine. (BBC)
Florida woman, accused of sex with minors, uses ‘age is just a number’ line Mayor Hidalgo said Paris’ image had been damaged by Fox News’ comments.
said: “We empathise with the citizens of France as they go through a healing process and return to everyday life. “However, we find the Mayor’s comments regarding a lawsuit misplaced.” Fox has also apologised for comments by terror expert Steven Emerson, who claimed Birmingham was “totally Muslim” and ruled by Sharia law.
THAT logic won’t hold up in court. A 36-year-old Florida woman charged with having sex with a minor told the boy “age is just a number” right before taking advantage of him. Barbara Kirby, of Leesburg, also threatened the boy after their encounter, telling him, “if you tell anyone about what we did, I will kill you,” the Orlando Sentinel reports. The boy, who is between 12 and 15, told Kirby’s comments to police during interviews in December. An affidavit said a second boy told a similar story in December about having sex with Kirby. Both boys said she gave them an intoxicating drink in her home before
Barbara Kirby, 36, allegedly drugged two minors in her home and had sex with them, threatening to kill one if he told people about it.
they had sex. The boy who got the “age” remark said that after having Kirby’s drink on Dec. 11, he felt lightheaded and passed out. When he woke up, Kirby undressed and had sex with him, WKMG reports. He went to police two days later. Kirby was arrested Tuesday after cops noticed her car during an unrelated call. She’s been charged with lewd battery on a minor and tampering with a victim and is being held on $25,000 bail. Kirby admitted to having sex with one of the boys but wouldn’t answer any police questions about it. (NYDailynews)
30
Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate
Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Brama Kumaris
Raja Yoga Meditation Centre Turks and Caicos Islands
Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101
www.bkwsu.com Email: bkpadma@bkwsutci.com
FOR SALE
January 24 - 30, 2015
946-4664 Fax: 946-4661
Email: tcnews@tciway.tc
Website: tcweeklynews.com
FLOWER GIRL
Wanted urgently
Floral Designer
Must have thorough knowledge in the floral business with 3-5 years experience.
Call: 231-3788
Construction scaffold and roof tiles for sale CONTACT: 431-1591 OR 231-3788
CLASSIFIEDS 31
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Sun & Fun Sea Sports Ltd is seeking a
LABOURER TURKS AND CAICOS TOURIST BOARD
IMMEDIATE OPENING FOR EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT A rewarding career opportunity awaits you in the Country’s most important sector? Do you have outstanding communication, organization and administrative skills? Are you highly motivated and self-directed? The Turks & Caicos Tourist Board has an exciting opportunity for the ideal candidate. Reporting to the Director of Tourism, the successful candidate will coordinate: • Technical and Administrative Duties • Human Resource Administration • Office Administration • Employee Relations
ESSENTIAL DUTIES • Support the Director of Tourism with report writing, research, presentations and speeches; liaise with relevant tourism and tourism-related entities; participate in Tourist Board activities and projects. • Perform administrative functions to include typing/word processing, filing, coordinating and answering mail/correspondence, taking and distributing meeting minutes, managing travel arrangements. • Facilitate HR planning, recruitment, selection, placement and termination in collaboration with the HR Committee of the Board of Tourism. • Coordinate employee relations activities; communicate with staff; address employee concerns, facilitate performance management, prepare employment/separation documents, liaise with Labour and Immigration Departments. • Supervise and coordinate all front office activities including reception, purchasing, facilities management and maintenance, office services, and meeting planning/preparation. • Support Accounts Department • Supervise assigned staff and delegate duties as appropriate
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE • Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism, Hospitality Studies, Business Management or related discipline from an accredited university • 3 years’ work experience, with at least one year of proven supervisory ability or minimum 5 years’ work experience at a senior level in a tourism or other business environment • Professional demeanor with excellent social and interpersonal skills; ability to engage at executive and senior management levels locally, regionally and internationally • Working knowledge of TCI Labour and Employment Laws • Able to maintain confidentiality; communicate sensitive information to management and employees, as required • Excellent typing skills with strong proficiency in Microsoft Office - Word, Excel and PowerPoint; Working knowledge of QuickBooks • • Ability to act as recording secretary for management/staff meetings • Excellent oral and written communication, presentation and organizational skills; strong attention to detail • Good health and high energy level
SALARY The salary scale for this position is $30,000 to $36,000 per annum. Starting salary is commensurate with qualifications, and experience. For consideration, please submit the following documents to kbeentci@gmail.com addressed to The Chairman, Turks and Caicos Islands, Front Street, Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands: • Covering Letter • Current Resume • Two (2) Reference Letters from previous employers • Current Police Record • Resident Status
Only persons shortlisted for an interview will be contacted in this regard. CLOSING DATE: JANUARY 26, 2015
To work 6 days per week at a salary of $5.00 per hour.
Contact: 946-5724
10959
WARD’S CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients: Colin Chaffe, Villa Del Mar, Coyaba Restaurant Ltd. is looking to fill the following positions:
Live in nanny Laundry attendant Waitress Sous chef Manager
Salary $5.50-$6.00 and $250.00 per week.
Contact: 649-345-7512
10953
January 24 - 30, 2015
Education and Training:
• Post secondary degree in Culinary Arts or 8 + years industry equivalent experience. • Computer literate, functional on Excel, MS-Word and Quickbooks • Fluent in English both written and oral with a fundamental understanding of French and Spanish • First Aid Training
Skill Requirements:
Be able to assist the Executive Chef in all capacities to include: • Work in a high pressure environment with calm, effective leadership • Planning and execution of special events. • Precise knife skills • Assist Chef in the preparation and execution of all desserts. • Produce all breakfast, lunch and dinner items with expert precision. • Cook entire menu on the line during service, including meats to temperature specifications. • Execute a proper sanitation procedure to insure that high quality food is served that accurately represents the Café. • Prepare and execute specials based on the Café’s Tex-Mex cuisine. • Be versed in a large variety of cooking techniques to include: braising, sautéing, frying, steaming, poaching, and sauce making. • Receive food orders from various vendors, checking for quality and pricing. • Be able to stand on ones feet for 10 hours and be comfortable lifting 50 pounds without physical restrictions. • Be available to work holidays and weekends with a flexible schedule. Leadership and Managerial Requirements: • Assist Chef in the training of kitchen staff to encourage growth in a positive environment. • Be sensitive to the needs of staff members and maintain a professional demeanor • Assist Chef in the ordering of food through a variety of vendors • Assist Chef with weekly and monthly inventory of items and work with the Chef to calculate food costs • Maintain a positive environment in the kitchen to encourage growth and diversity within the workplace The Sous Chef should be a natural leader who is seeking to assist others in improving their cooking ability, and also to develop strong people skills. An ambitious person who is a comfortable communicator with a confident skill set. The Sous Chef needs to be a self starter that can lead the kitchen in the Chefs absence. The right candidate should be able to open the kitchen in the morning, or be the last to leave the kitchen at night. Prioritizing and executing prep items based on the restaurants needs. He or She will assure that foods are properly labeled with the date and prep item name and consistently rotated, and stored for future use. Oversee and participate in daily cleaning duties as per scheduled by the Chef to maintain a clean safe environment for all employees to work in.
10944
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
January 24 - 30, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
CARLA PROSPERE
COLASCO
Is looking for a
Is looking for a
The Investigative Officer is responsible for receiving, investigating and resolving complaints made against Government entities. He/she will also identify potential maladministration and refer complaints to other avenues where appropriate and seek early resolution where possible and make recommendations for improvements in administration.
Director of Public Prosecutions
– Providenciales (Deadline: January 26, 2015) Salary: $125,000 per annum The successful applicant must be able to provide legal advice to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police and other Statutory Bodies in the investigation and prosecution of the full range of criminal offences, and, in particular, direct investigations, prosecutions and related proceedings in connection with serious fraud and money laundering cases. He/She must also be experienced in the conduct of major criminal trials, including preparatory hearings and appearing as prosecuting attorney before criminal courts at all levels. The successful candidate will also be expected to procure restraint/freezing orders, tracing and recovery of property as well as conduct civil recovery proceedings under the Proceeds of the Crime Ordinance. As Director of Public Prosecutions, he/she will be Accounting Officer for the Department and will take full responsibility for the management, development and training of the legal and support staff in the Department.
District Commissioner
– North Caicos (Deadline: January 29, 2015) Salary: $35,040 per annum The incumbent in this senior position will act as the Central Administrator for the island by ensuring adherence to rules and guidelines in the effective delivery of Government Services.
Health Research Officer
– Grand Turk (Deadline: January 30, 2015) Salary: $28,560 per annum The incumbent in this position will assist the Chief Epidemiologist to plan, develop and implement epidemiologic and research programmes under the auspices of the National Epidemiology and Research Unit (NERU). The successful candidate will ensure the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data about health effects and risks in TCI and disseminate this information locally, regionally and internationally as appropriate to be utilized in particular to promote evidence-informed decision making in health in TCI.
Ebola Screeners
– Grand Turk and Providenciales (Deadline: January 30, 2015) Salary: $16, 200 per annum The incumbent in this position will be responsible to conduct screening of passengers entering the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) on international flights, and cruise ships, using the non-contact infrared temperature gun to identify persons with fever (101.4F) as a measure of heightened Ebola surveillance.
Interested persons are asked to visit www.gov.tc for job details and the application procedure.
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
contact: 345-5481
contact: 344-6168
10975
B & B SERVICES
ACE PLUMBING is looking for a
is looking to fill the following positions:
labourer
2 Domestic Workers
To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour contact: 245-8046
– $6.50 per hour
2 Labourers – $6.50 per hour Maintenance – $7.00 per hour
Painter – $7.00 per hour
Contact: 245-6962
10983
BARISTA
Requirements
• Minimum 2 years barista experience and 4 years customer facing experience • Fully trained in all aspects of health and safety regulations in the kitchen with staff, cleanliness, storage and production of food • Willing to work irregular, long and late hours • Command a broad knowledge of kitchen and restaurant terminology • Comprehensive QuickBooks knowledge • Comprehensive POS Experience • Good computer literacy • Must have valid driver’s license • Engaging and outgoing personality who enjoys working with the public • Salary $1,400-$1,500 per month dependant on experience
Please bring all application with two letters of recommendation citing relevant experience in the same industry to Flowers by Environmental Arts located at U102 Venture House, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales or email to: admin@ environmentalarts.tc successful applicants will be notified by phone for interview
BAYVIEW MOTORS
is currently looking to employ a
Mechanic The individual must possess the following: • Adequate tools to perform his duties • Must be able to work with little or no supervision • Must be experience using computerized diagnostic equipment • Must be a holder of automotive repair certifications ASE or equivalent • Salary commensurate with experience
Please email all application to: syrmondg@bayviewmotors.com Only qualified applicants will be contracted for an interview Bayview Motors Ltd. P.O. Box 619 Leeward Highway, Providenciales
10993
Investigative Officer – Grand Turk (Deadline: January 26, 2015) Salary: $48,000 per annum
contact: 231-1489
To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.
per week salary $5.00 per hour
C & S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Acting on behalf of Carol Skippings Is seeking a
Mason To work 7-5 salary $10.00 per hour.
Contact: 241-5922
10965
The following vacancies currently exist within the Turks and Caicos Islands Public Service:
To work 6 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour
10991
VACANCIES
labourer
domestic domestic worker worker to work 6 days
10966
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS GOVERNMENT
C.H. VARIETY STORE FIVE CAYS is looking for a
10980
32 CLASSIFIEDS
CLASSIFIEDS 33
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS DOLPHINS SPORTS BAR AND GRILL K.C. BAR
GILLEY’S ENTERPRISES
HELPER Need to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.
contact: 345-3968 10973
NATASHA CONSULTANCY
Acting on behalf of our clients: Joseph Skippings
Labourer Must be willing to work 6 days per week.
10892
Contact: 241-2894 Luckmia Joseph Babysitter/ helper Must be willing to work 6 days per week Contact: 342-1025
is looking for a
is looking to hire one
Domestic Worker
Is looking for
CARPENTER
JUDY MINI BAR
Cocktail Waitresses
To work 6 days per week
to work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.
contact: 946-4472 or email: tate@ gilleycafe.tc
contact: 331-6364 10965
PRESIDENTIAL SECURITY Is seeking highly trained professional, experienced
Security Officers To work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.
10981
Barmaid To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour
contact: 243-1095
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
GROUNDSKEEPER
contact: 231-1000 or 333-1000
10964
The SFS Center for Marine Resource Studies located on South Caicos, seeks an individual to serve a part-time year-round position • Assist in overall site maintenance (building, grounds, vehicles, boats), • The ability to work with a minimum of direct supervision. • Work with and maintain an appropriate cultural sensitivity with staff and students.
The following qualifications are required:
PREMIUM CUTS BARBER SHOP is looking for 2
MARCELLUS COX Is looking for a
MISSICK SKIN CARE AND BEAUTY AID Is looking for a
• • • •
TCI work authorization or ability to obtain, Ability to speak and understand English, Ability to lift up to 75 pounds unassisted numerous times per day, Maintenance and construction experience including but not limited to; painting, rust proofing, electrical & plumbing repair, grounds keeping, masonry, woodworking, portage, safe and proper usage of power tools, roofing.
To apply send a CV and cover letter to: cstringer@fieldstudies.org
contact: 333-7296 LION CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a
To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.
contact: 243-2833
Hairbraider To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.
contact: 242-9472
10962
to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.
10974
Barbers
babysitter/ housekeeper
PROVO ELECTRIC
GORDONS SUPPLY
Carpenter
STORE CLERK LABOURER
contact: 347-7023
Resumes can be faxed: 649-9413425 and the Labour Department, Providenciales as soon as possible
Salary must commensurate with qualification.
10976
10984
NOTICE Regulation 7 of the Physical Planning (Development Permission) Regulations, 1990
PLUMBER
to work 4 days per week salary $7.00 per hour
10989
January 24 - 30, 2015
An application registered PR: 12091 for construction of a Cell Site Tower have been submitted to the Department of Planning for consideration of Detail Development Permission by ISLANDCOM TELECOMMUNITIONS LTD. the location is Parcel 60801/71 which is on Leeward Highway Area of Providenciales. Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Downtown, Town Center Mall, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of publication of this Notice. 10985
34 CLASSIFIEDS JOYCE RIGBY
ISLAND NEWTWORK 649-946-4736
Is looking for a
is looking for 4
S & G Contracting Providenciales Telephone: 333-1199
SANCHEZ AND WILLIAMS RESTAURANT
10933
Send written resume to: darhud5@yahoo.com
10940
MICHAEL RIGBY
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
• To work week days salary on commission basis • Must work weekends and holidays • Must have a minimum of 5 years lecture experience and must have an educational degree along with own transportation • Speak English and other language skills is a plus
per week salary $5.50 per hour.
contact: 244-0469
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
Lecturer
Caretaker To work 5 days
January 24 - 30, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
WARD CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a
Ts looking for a kitchen helper to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 231-2397
10906
BLUELOOS LTD
Salary $5.50 per hour
per week salary $6.00 per hour.
contact: 231-6601
T&C Refreshments Ltd. Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Is.
ISLAND FARMS LTD Urgently requires farm labourer. 40 hours a week, $6/hour. Duties include feeding animals, weeding, harvesting. Must be prepared to work outside all day.Email nicholasturner50@gmail.com with previous experience. Persons not requiring work permit preferred.
THE VENETIAN RESORT Is looking for a
Is seeking candidates for the position of
Merchandiser FUNCTION
To ensure that all Coca-Cola Brands are properly displayed and merchandised in the market place.
Must have at least 5 years experience. Must be willing to work 6 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.
Contact: 941-3512
9318
TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• To execute scheduled visits to all listed accounts, ensuring that the account is properly merchandised and point of sales material is in place. • Monitoring & Servicing all branded coolers, racks and displays, ensuring that products are stocked and priced correctly. • Organizing and setting up of all product sampling in the market. • Assisting with market surveys, documentation of findings and reporting of the same. • Preparing banners for display. EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE • High School Diploma • A valid Driver’s License
KEVIN SWANN Is looking for a
Labourer To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.
contact: 341-4221
ATTORNEY We seek a highly qualified Attorney-At-Law who has been called to the English Bar/and or a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales with ability to practice in the Turks and Caicos. Must possess a Bachelor of Laws Degree and hold 18 years of practical experience in litigation, commercial law, intellectual property law, corporate law, insolvency law, property and internet law. Candidate must have the ability to initiate, thoroughly advise on, prepare and plead litigious matters. Previous extensive experience within the Caribbean required and the applicant has to be a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners. Salary commensurate with experience. ONLY BELONGERS NEED APPLY.
SKILLS
• Good communication skills • Time management. If you are interested in a challenging career, that will bring out the best in you, in an environment that is ever changing and evolving, then, send your Resume, on or before January 30th, 2015 by email to HRAdmin@cbcbahamas. com
MASSEUSE
10947
10920
Labourers
labourer to work 5 days 10922
contact: 246-1909
10955
per week salary $5.50 per hour.
10952
labourers To work 5 days
Urgently needs a driver/operator. Must have experience driving a class 6 stick-shift truck, must be able to speak English. 40 hours a week $10/hour duties include driving, pumping septic tanks and cleaning portable toilets. Must be prepared to work in confined spaces and handle human waste. Email blueloosltd@gmail.com with resume including names of two previous employers. Persons not requiring work permit preferred.
10930
Send resumes to info@karammissick.com on or before January 30, 2014. Please no calls or unscheduled visits. Only qualified candidates will be contacted. You may also send a copy of your resume to the Department of Labour.
10928
January 24 - 30, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
The Somerset Strata Management Co. Ltd is seeking a suitable qualified Belongers who possess the requirements listed are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates should possess luxury resort experience, be professional in attitude and demeanor and must read and speak English fluently.
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
LABOURER Responsibilities: Troubleshoot and perform minor repairs on heating, cooling, and ventilation systems Paint and repair drywall along with performing routine maintenance jobs and repairs around the property Requirements: Must be a team player with a desire to deliver excellent customer service to our guests Previous experience in this area would be an asset
JOB OPENINGS
Salary for this position will commensurate with qualifications and experience
Labourer
Qualified Belonger candidates are requested to submit a CV by e-mail to:
Joanna Ivasiuk The Somerset Resort on Grace Bay Jivasiuk@thesomerset.com
CLASSIFIEDS 35
10972
Submissions for this job position should be received no later than February 15, 2015
Is seeking a general labourer, this position is responsible for cleaning all common areas (stairwells, patios, public bathrooms etc.), garbage removal and cleaning of garbage areas, general housekeeping duties and laundry assistance. Several years’ experience in a similar position is required, as well as good communication skills, including excellent English; must have a pleasant and outgoing personality. Must be willing to work evenings, weekends and holidays.
Dishwasher
Dishwasher required for our food and beverage operations. Weekend, holiday and shift work. Must be able to work late hours.
Housekeeper
Point Grace is currently seeking Housekeeping staff. We are looking for a trained and enthusiastic housekeeper to join our team. The successful candidate will have several years experience in this position in a luxury hotel. Ability to work well under pressure and good communication skills, including excellent English, are essential; must have a pleasant and outgoing personality. In addition to regular housekeeping duties, the jobs include, turndown service, shifts in laundry, and common areas. Must be willing to work evenings, weekends and holidays.
The Somerset Strata Management Co Ltd, is seeking a suitable qualified Belongers who possess the requirements listed are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates should possess luxury resort experience, be professional in attitude and demeanor and must read and speak English fluently.
Gardener
Kitchen Helper
Responsibilities: Complete ground work as directed by the Property Manager which may include picking up trash, sweeping curb and dumpster areas and maintaining landscaping beds and other ground areas Must have the ability to lift heavy items weighing up to 150lbs Must have the ability to maintain irrigation systems and provide proper upkeep of sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, fountains, and other grounds features
Point Grace is currently seeking a kitchen helper for our food and beverage operations. Applicants wishing to apply for the kitchen helper position must have at least 2 years previous experience in a full service restaurant and be willing to work days, nights, and weekends.
Domestic Worker
Is seeking a domestic worker for our food and beverage operations. Several years experience in a similar position is required, as well as good communication skills, including excellent English; must have a pleasant and outgoing personality. Must be willing to work evenings, weekends and holidays.
Common Area Attendant
Responsibilities: Clean and maintain guest public areas within the hotel Follow procedures for the use of chemical cleaners and power equipment, in order to prevent damage to floors and fixtures Maintain an inventory of cleaning and toiletry supplies Polish furnitures, metal work, and chrome using appropriate cleaning and polishing compounds
All wages range: $5.00 to $5.50 per hour (commensurate with experience), plus service charge.
Spa Therapist
We are seeking a qualified Spa Therapist with a minimum of five years’ experience for our Thalasso Spa. The successful candidate will be qualified to provide our spa clientele with high quality therapeutic treatments, including a full range of body massages, ear candling, lymphatic drainage, and pregnancy massages, as well as providing manicures and pedicures. This position will also assist the Spa Manager with day-to-day administrative duties, including inventory management, appointments, etc.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS: Must be a team player with a desire to deliver excellent customer service to our guest Must have clear English communications skills (written or oral) Previous experience in this area would be an asset Salary for this position will commensurate with qualifications and experience
Salary: $500 to $750 per month and 10% - 12.5% commission on treatments provided, (both salary and commission commensurate with experience) plus service charge. Onsite bedsit provided.
Qualified Belonger candidates are requested to submit a CV by e-mail to:
Belongers only need apply Closing date: 30th February 2015
Submissions for this job position should be received no later than February 15, 2015
10971
Joanna Ivasiuk The Somerset Resort on Grace Bay jivasiuk@thesomerset.com
Please apply in writing to: Point Grace, PO Box 700, Grace Bay, Providenciales. Email: humanresources@pointgrace.com or Fax: 946-5097 10892
36
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
January 24 - 30, 2015
JOB OPPORTUNITIES The Sands is now accepting applications/resume for the following positions. Only highly self-driven & motivated, personable and professional individuals, whom have the desire to serve others, need apply:
EXECUTIVE HOUSEKEEPER Responsibilities: • Uphold and update established Housekeeping and Laundry operating procedures and standards. • Develop, implement and coordinate new Housekeeping and Laundry procedures. • Plan and coordinate housekeeping staff job duties, responsibilities, and activities including that of housekeeping managers and supervisors. • Coordinate and complete inspections of assigned areas for quality checks and cleanliness controls in accordance to standards. • Coordinate, administer and complete administrative tasks as required. Requirements: • Education: A secondary school diploma is an asset. • Experience: Minimum of three to five years as an Executive Housekeeper is required. • The individual must possess Housekeeping and Laundry Department management work experience, knowledge, skills and abilities. Must be able to explain, demonstrate and perform all related job duties, functions, and responsibilities of Housekeeping and Laundry department operations. Qualification Standards: Education • High school or equivalent education required. Bachelor’s Degree preferred. Experience • Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a managerial position in the Housekeeping & Laundry Department. Licenses or Certificates • Executive Housekeeper Certification or time on the job equivalent as stated above required. Essential Functions • Plans, organizes, directs and controls all housekeeping and laundry activities, maintains the established standards of cleanliness, the orderly and attractive conditions on guest floors, public/common and employee areas. Implement working rules and proper execution to meet those standards. • Monitors and maintains a healthy and safe environment for owners, guests and employees. • Conducts and keep records of goods received, housekeeping and laundry staff, inventories, cleaning projects and room inspections for guest rooms and public areas. • Familiarizes him /herself and carries out policies and procedures established by the Sands at Grace Bay. • Initiates and aides in effective communication within the department and other departments. • Carries out the following routine assignments as required. (This list is not exhaustive)
HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR
Responsibilities: • Ensures maximum compliance and efficiency in the
• • • • • • • •
• •
performance of Housekeeping staff in guest rooms and surrounding areas Carries out the policies and procedures of Housekeeping Departments Standard Operating Offers assistance to guests and owners, initiates corrective action on complaints of cleanliness and service to guest rooms Assists in and conducts monthly Housekeeping Inventories as required Conducts routine guest room and common area inspections. Provides inspections scores and retrains for success Assists in and conducts staff scheduling and annual performance evaluations Maintains inventory and stock controls Ensure delivery of service excellence to all guests by monitoring staff performance and provides hands-on training and development Evaluates and updates Executive Housekeeper on staff performance. Makes recommendations for appropriate action in the areas of disciplinary and commendation Maintains quality controls and assurance Assists in overseeing Laundry Department as required in service, quality, inventory, inspection, scheduling and overall performance
Requirements: • High school diploma • Must have supervised a minimum of 15 employees • Most work tasks are performed indoors and outdoors. Temperature is moderate and controlled by hotel environmental systems • Must be able to stand and exert well-paced mobility for up to 3 hours in length • Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs. on a regular and continuing basis • Must be able to push and pull carts and equipment weighing up to 200 lbs. on a regular and continuing basis • Must be able to exert well-paced ability in limited space • Must be able to bend, stoop, squat and stretch to fulfill cleaning tasks • Must have minimum of 3 years supervisory experience in the Hotel/Resort and/or Hospitality Industry • Must be able to speak, read, write and understand the primary language (s) used in the workplace • Must be able to read and write to facilitate the communication process • Requires excellent communication and grammar skills, both orally and written to communicate well to guests and owners • Must possess basic math and computational ability • Must have basic computer skills in Hotel PMS, Word, Excel and Outlook • Must work weekends and holidays
MAINTENACE/ HVAC TECHNICIAN
Responsibilities: • To skillfully and professionally perform all scheduled
maintenance related jobs. • Account for time spent on individual work requests/ orders and actively seek further tasks when assigned tasks are completed. • To advise the Engineering Administrator when parts or supplies need to be reordered. • Perform weekly and monthly physical counts of all inventory stock and tooling and requirements. • Any other duties assigned and/or as deemed necessary by the Engineering Administrator. • Reassembling and testing equipment following repairs • Repairing and replacing defective equipment, components in addition to wiring • Laying out and connecting electrical wiring between controls and equipment • Obtaining and maintaining required certifications • Maintain machinery, equipment, and tools • Upkeep, installation, and maintenance of hydraulic, pneumatic, electronic, mechanical and electrical systems on all production machines • Performs preventive maintenance and makes repairs to heating, ventilating, air conditioning equipment according to instructions such as replacing belts on motors, changing filters, bearings, etc. • Lays out, assembles, installs, and maintains pipe systems and related hydraulic and pneumatic equipment, and repairs and replaces gauges, valves, pressure regulators, and related equipment Requirements: • As a HVAC Technician, you must comply with all applicable standards, policies and procedures, including safety procedures and the maintenance of a clean work area. We are seeking a detail-oriented mechanic with experience in both commercial and residential installation and services. • Refrigeration experience. • Must meet minimum professional qualification/ certification in Plumbing/Electrical/ Mechanical and A/C related trades. • Follows proper safety practices and procedures as required of the position. • Must have minimum of two years hands-on experience working on minor electrical, painting, plumbing and A/C. • Must speak, read, write and understand the primary language (English) used in the workplace. • Must work weekends and holidays. • Must work AM and PM shifts as business demands according to the operations policy. • Must have reliable transportation to get to and from work.
RESERVATIONS / SALES AGENT
Responsibilities: • Handle incoming reservations, utilize up selling and value-added techniques • Sell and reserve multi-properties brands • Multiple PMS systems operations input • High technical skills and input • Process advance deposits Continued
January 24 - 30, 2015
37
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Continued
Requirements: • High school diploma • Must have experience in the Hotel/Resort and/or Hospitality Industry • Visual One/Opera experience is highly preferred • Must be able to type more than 40 words per minute • Strong Grammar, Reading and Writing Skills • Must have great Customer Service Skills and telephone etiquette • Must be able to speak, read, write and understand the primary language(s) used in the workplace. • Must possess basic computational ability (basic mathematics, word, excel, outlook)
PURCHASING AGENT / MAINTENANCE ADMINISTRATOR Responsibilities: To procure the highest quality materials, equipment, supplies and services for the hotel while minimizing costs. Organizes, coordinates, and oversee purchases, deliveries both local and international suppliers, vendors and wholesalers for hotel/resort/company. Prepares for approval, all administrative paperwork, documents, invoices, and related required forms and reports as directed. Preparation of monthly owners accounts and to manage and maintain all STRATA inventories. To professionally source, purvey and purchase all local and international products and supplies as required. Uphold and comply with established purchasing, maintenance, engineering STRATA operating procedures and standards. Maintains accuracy in inventories, bookkeeping records, spreadsheets analysis reports and administrative meeting documentations. Coordinates, administers and completes administrative tasks as required. Requirements: • Must be computer literate, with excellent skills in Microsoft Excel, WORD and Outlook. • Must have excellent grammar, spelling and highly accurate computational skills. • Regular/Full Time position only. • Must speak, read, write and understand the primary language (English) used in the workplace. • Must work weekends and/or holidays. • Must have reliable transportation to get to and from
QUALIFICATION STANDARDS Education High school or equivalent education required. Bachelor’s Degree a plus. A secondary school diploma is an asset. Experience Minimum of 3 years’ experience in the Engineering/ Maintenance Department. Minimum of three years prior experience in the capacity of purchasing agent or higher required Essential Functions • Monitors status regularly and adjusts supply levels as appropriate. • Recommends and implements purchasing strategies that support achievement of the hotel/resort/ company’s goals. • Assists, directs and supervises receiving, storage and distribution of all goods to effectively and efficiently meet hotel/resort/company requirements. • Verifies the dates, amounts and prices of all goods. • Processes and executed requisitions/work orders, inventories and orders properly. • Manages the procurement of STRATA and operating supplies and equipment. • Ensures that all supplies purchased adhere to company standards. • Identifies and utilizes low cost providers which adhere to established standards. • Leverages company purchasing power as appropriate by utilizing provisions. • Initiates and follows up on purchase orders, invoices, bills of lading, Customs and Duties, Freight, wires, charges, and credits. • Adheres to strict standard control processes. • Manages and secures inventory. • Maintains up-to-date cost and work order information. • Provides management with cost calculations based on purchase prices. • Prepares reports as requested to develop a more informative data base for use in decision-making.
DOMESTIC WORKERS Must be willing to work 6 days per week. Must be trustworthy and reliable. Hours are: 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Salary: $5.50 per hour
Send resume to: info@trail.tc
10978
work. • Must possess current TCI Driver’s License and clean driver’s record. • Must have the ability to bend, squat, and frequently lift 50 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 100 lbs. • Most work tasks are performed indoors. Temperature is moderate and controlled by hotel environmental systems indoors; however, must be able to work in extreme temperatures like freezers (-10F) and kitchens (+110F), possibly for one hour or more. • The individual must possess prior working knowledge of engineering/maintenance purchasing work experience, skills and abilities.
TURKS AND CAICOS SANITATION LTD. Is looking for the following persons:
Sewage cleaner Maintenance worker Interested person can contact: 231-0436 Belonger Only need apply
10968
• Process all electronic and faxed requests • Perform job functions with attention to detail, speed and accuracy • Be able to prioritize and organize incoming and outgoing work flow • Be a clear thinker, remaining calm and resolving problems using good judgment • Follow directions thoroughly • Understand guest service and request needs • Work cohesively with co-workers as part of a team • Work with minimal supervision • Maintain confidentiality of guest information and pertinent hotel data
LIVE-IN CAREGIVER Needed urgently serious inquiries Belonger only need apply.
contact: 231-0436
10969
E. GARLAND Is looking for a
labourer to work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.
contact: 241-5362
10948
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
TRAIL ENTERPRISES/ MOTHER’S CLEANING Is seeking to employed three (3)
OUT LINERS
BARBERS NEEDED Sammy Been Plaza Airport Road.
Contact: 332-9606
10970
LINE POSITIONS HOUSEKEEPING ROOM ATTENDANT PBX OPERATOR HOUSEMAN LAUNDRY ATTENDANT LABOURER POOL & BEACH ATTENDANT GROUNDSMEN
For the above line staff positions, resort experience is an asset but not a requirement. Applicants must have a willing, positive and personable attitude as well as be willing to work holidays and weekends. They should also enjoy serving people and be willing to learn. Minimum experience in the areas of interest required. Turks & Caicos Islands citizens only need to apply to the Assistant Human Resources Manager at The Sands Resort located on Grace Bay Road, Providenciales or e-mail: humanresource@thesandstc. com. Deadline is February 7, 2015.
HOUSEMAN Required for inside and outside cleaning duties: some heavy lifting Hours will vary depending on occupancy levels evening and weekend shifts will be part of the schedule applicants must be able to speak, read and write English to a level that will enable communication with guests police clearance required for all applicants salary $6.00 per hour. Email to alliedmanagement@ usa.net or 946-5866 10957
38
January 24 - 30, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
HOLIDAY VILLAGE IS CURRENTLY SEEKING
LION CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a
LOTIE HARVEY Is looking for a
MATSON DELANCY
LUC ST. JEAN Is looking for a
is looking for a
MIRACLE BAR & RESTAURANT is looking for a
labourer Labourer labourer To work 5 days
labourer
barmaid
CONTACT: 946-5500
contact: 345-5305
Contact: 241-9730
contact: 242-2604
contact: 241-6608
Ports of Call Resorts
PRESTON HARRIS
RICHARD GIBBS
DISCOVERY TOURS
KATHLEEN JOLLY BAIN
Resume can be email to info@portsofcallresort.com
10935
labourer To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.
contact: 241-8830
VILLA COOK The successful candidate must possess the following: • Preferably at least 5 years experience in a luxury hotel or restaurant or as a personal cook in a private residence • He/she must possess the ability to prepare a range of international cuisine,(Asian, fusion cuisine, French, Italian), as well as cater to guests individual dietary preferences that include vegetarian, vegan, kosher, organic diets etc. • Full ability and responsibility to take on menu planning and food preparation for house parties BBQ’s, business meetings • Maintain the cleanliness and proper sanitation of the kitchen at all times including deep cleaning of appliances, pots and pans, kitchen tools etc. • Exercise good cost control presenting monthly monitoring and replenishment of stocks and supplies • Computer literacy would be an advantage but no essential with the ability to record and present invoices and purchases in an accurate manner
HOUSEKEEPER/BUTLER
A self-motivated, highly detail orientated individual is required to work in a luxury villa
10925
10926
10924
Is looking for the following persons:
Is looking for a
is looking for a
4 Nail Technicians
laboUrer Salary $5.50 per hour.
contact: 247-1736
10941
LIVE-IN COUPLE REQUIRED TO WORK IN A PRIVATE VILLA A couple is required to work in a private villa, a Cook and Housekeeper. This is a live-in position and accommodation is provided for a couple possessing the following skills:
ROXY BEAUTY SALON
The successful candidate must demonstrate the ability to use their own initiative and have a good command of English as well as excellent communication skills. • He/she must be prepared to sometimes work long hours, weekends and holidays • The successful candidate must possess the following: • Housekeeping experience in a luxury or 5 star hotel or residence since attention to detail is essential • An awareness of cost control and energy saving • Ability to run errands, go shopping etc. • He/she may be required from time to time to assist private cook in the serving of meals so an F&B background would be beneficial • Preferences will therefore be given to individuals who are flexible and able to multitask • BOTH CANDIDATES MUST ALSO: • Be willing to work flexible hours, weekends, holidays etc. • Be able to work within a team, be reliable and trustworthy • Be extremely well presented and have a good command of English • One must possess a clean driving license in order to run errands • Must be prepared to carry out other duties when guests are not in house • Preference will also be give to individuals who have worked within a 5 star luxury environment Salary dependent on experience Note this is a live-in position only
Suitable qualified candidates must apply in writing with resume details to P.O. Box 143, Providenciales or email: jessica@thesource.tc 10986
4 Hair Stylist domestic Domestic Worker Must be willing worker To work 5 days to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour
contact: 242-4006
to work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 331-4892 10961
per week salary $5.50 per hour.
contact: 244-0660
10956
Person must be able to work holidays and weekends and be willing to work as a part of a team.
Is seeking to employ
to work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.
ALLIED MANAGEMENT SERVICES LTD.
A NURSE
Is required for several managed properties Qualifications: • Required for property management company • Must have completed a degree course in Nursing and hold an internationally recognized registration • Fluent English written and spoken
Duties: • To give additional support services to elderly guests and disable and sometimes act as a babysitter • Irregular hours including night work and weekends • To assist housekeeping team when not performing nursing duties Salary $800.00 per month plus share of nursing fees
Send resumes to alliedmanagement@usa.net or to Labor Department
10958
Housemaids Houseman Ground keepers Maintenance
Is looking for a
10921
contact: 241-7995
To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.
PELICAN DESIGNS LTD.
Graphic Designer Minimum requirements: • Two years of working experience in a lead position as a graphic designer • Experience in sign manufacturing • Advance knowledge in the following software: Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Corel Draw, estimate pricing software. • Experience n project supervision and management • Must be willing to work outside normal business hours. Salary: $400 per week Deadline for submission of applications is February 3rd, 2015 To: Manager, Pelican Designs Ltd. P.O. Box 579 21 Elite Plaza, Airport Road Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Email: info@pelicandesigns.tc Fax: (649) 941-8733 And copied to the Labour Department Butterfield Square, Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands
10943
Job Vacancies
To do landscaping, farming etc. salary $5.50 per hour
To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour
10931
10933
per week salary $5.00 per hour.
10923
WEEKLY SALARY $225/ $215. WORKING HOURS ARE. 6 DAYS PER WEEK
10927
3 LABOURERS 4 DOMESTIC WORKERS
39
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
CAICOS DREAM TOURS - HIRING
DOMESTIC WORKER REQUIRED
OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR diverse workplace • Excels at operating in a fast pace, community environment • Ability to challenge and debate issues of importance to the organization • Ability to look at situations from several points of view • Persuasive with details and facts • Delegate responsibilities effectively • High comfort level working in a diverse environment • Willing to work long hours and during holidays
Interested applicants can contact: 649-231-7274 or 649-231-7275
SOMEWHERE CAFÉ AND LOUNGE
Job duties to include the following: • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills in English. • Excellent meal planning and preparation for large and small groups. • Procure all groceries and cleaning supplies • Sufficient accounting skills and computer proficiency. Salary is $1,350.00 a month. Required to work six days a week. An experienced Belonger required for this position. If you fit the above qualifications please address your application to: PO Box 560, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Closing date for applications is 26 January 2015.
10960
Qualifications: • Good verbal and written communication skills • Bachelor degree is definitely a must • Must have 5 years or more in water sports supervisory position • Must have 5 years experience in accounting management • Excellent computer skills and proficient in excel, word, outlook and access • Knowledge of tax and other compliance implications of non-profit status • A Demonstrated commitment to high professional ethical standards and a
Experienced Live in Domestic Worker needed for busy household. Minimum of 10 years’ experience in domestic service for a large private family villa.
Wilfrey & Tony
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
Is looking for a
To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour apply in person Belongers only need apply
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
Is looking for
Salon helper To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour
Contact: 231-0882
10888
Dishwasher
10954
January 24 - 30, 2015
10932
NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION Scotiabank (Turks & Caicos) Ltd. of Cherokee Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following properties pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands. 1. Parcel 60900/287 Leeward Going Through, Providenciales. Property consists of a main house with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, laundry room, living/ dining room and a one bedroom, one bathroom guest house with kitchen, living/ dining room on 0.36 acre. Registered Proprietor: Mark Andrew Knighton and Julie Margaret Knighton 2. Parcel 60002/139 Northwest and North Central, Providenciales. Single storey Priton home in Phase two with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, living/dining room, kitchen and laundry room on approx.. 0.40 acre . Registered Proprietor: Lavardo Garland 3. Parcel 60804/45 The Bight and Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales. Single storey with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, living/dining area, kitchen and laundry room on approx.. 0.40 acre. Registered Proprietor: Janet Smith 4. Parcel 60715/191 Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill, Providenciales. Single storey situated on Butterfly Close with two bedrooms, one bathroom, kitchen, living/ dining area, laundry on approx.. 0.56 acre. Registered Proprietor: Vienna Thomas The auction will be held at the offices of Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Limited, Grace Bay Branch, Providenciales at 10 o’clock in the morning on Friday the 30th day of January 2015. A reserve price will be fixed on all parcels. A deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids. 10942
VACANCIES 4 Store/Warehouse Supervisors:
- To take responsibility for specific areas of activity from day to day - To ensure that all areas of the shop floor are adequately staffed and that customers receive the highest standard of service - Maintaining a presence on the shop floor to assist staff in problem solving and motivating them for improved customer service - Perform the task of financial controller, managing all the books and records for the firm’s suppliers and clients - Manage all the accounting and sales aspects of the firm, including performing weekly auditing of the sales and expenses performed - Manage the inventory along the different locations and take control of transfers throughout - Must have at least 7 years experience in the retail industry and good management and leadership skills - Must be bilingual in English and Spanish, and any other language will be an asset to interact with customers - Must know how to operate Business Management System (BMS) - Must have sharp analytical skills and be willing to work at any point of any day to high quoted text responsibilities - Salary $1500.00 to $2000.00 as per qualifications
1 Purchasing Manager: - - - - -
8-9 years work experience in retail Computer savvy (POS/BMS) Work extended hours weekends and holidays Speak/write English. Other language is an asset Salary dependent on qualifications
6 Sales Assistants:
- Must be friendly and an outgoing person able to deal with customers on a one-to-one basis - Must be willing to cooperate and work as a joint team with other staff members - Must be computer savvy especially be able to opearate POS systems - Must be willing to learn new ideas - Must be willing to work extended hours, weekends and holidays - Knowledge of speaking and writing in different languages always an asset - Must have 3-5 years experience in retail trade - Salary $5.00 per hour
6 Labourers
- Must have 3-5 years experience - Salary $5.00 per hour
CONTACT: Ananda Ltd, P.O Box 1151, Providenciales Tel: 339-4663 e-mail: jobs@anandaltd.com
January 24 - 30, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
CULINRIA LTD.
Ho Meli Restaurant
Is looking for
BCS/CS
BAY BISTRO Is looking for a
Acting on behalf of our clients: Sam’s Shop, Grace Bay Car Rentals and F & N is looking to fill the following positions:
Call 946-5534 or 244-1400Mon to Fri 9amto5pm Saturday 9am to 12noon...destinationtci@gmail or destinationtci.net
Five Ways to Buy a Car is Deadline31st January 2015 1) Cash and go pay all up front and get discount 2) 50% down and 50% when it arrives. 3) 50% down and monthly payments as low as $300 everyone qualifies with job letter or self employed. 4) Reserve a car as low as $1000 and pay the balance when the car arrive 5) No money....No problem join the Car Asu for Just $125
SINARTRA HANDFIELD Is looking for a
Kitchen Kitchen Waitress To work 6 days Helper per week salary helper $6.00 per hour. Salary: $5.50
To clean dish and help prep. $6 an hour
Email us your resume culinariatci@gmail.com
email: maculenebaptiste@ gmail.com 10997
MYSTIQUE CAR RENTAL AND TOURS LTD.
Is seeking a Qualified
Marine Engineer/ Electrician
10963
contact: 243-3985
IS SEEKING FOR
BARMAIDS TO WORK 44 HOURS PER WEEK. SALARY $5.50 PER HOUR
Please email resumes to mystique@tciway.tc Deadline: February 22, 2015 10993
• Must have a minimum of 5 years experience in diesel and petrol engines • The role involves weekly maintenance of 5 boats with inboard and outboard engines • The applicant will be responsible for implementing a preventative maintenance programme as well as complete engine repairs and rebuilds • Strong knowledge of electrical and electronic installation and repair Salary commensurate with experience Belonger preferred Please forward current cv and copy certificates to: info@gsfishing.com
SPA TROPIQUE
EVENT CO-ORDINATOR/ FLORAL DESIGNER
Massage Therapist
10950
Requirements: • Minimum 5 years experience as a floral designer with relevant certification • Extensive knowledge of different flowers, foliage and potted plants (names, seasonal availability, lifespan) • Up-to-date on current fashions and styles in floral design while at the same time understanding the traditional use of certain flowers for weddings, funerals etc. • Willing to work outdoors and irregular hours • Comprehensive QuickBooks knowledge • Engaging and outgoing personality who enjoys working with the public Starting salary $3,250 per month Please bring all application to Flowers by Environmental Arts located at U102 Venture House, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales or email to: Natalie@ environmentalarts.tc Successful applicants will be notified by phone for an interview
CONTACT: 345-8450
10934
To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour 9am-5pm.
GWENDOLYN LTD.
G SPOT BAR & GRILL
rental
PARTIAL JOB DESCRIPTION: 1. supervise and train staff 2. manage reservations 3. executing car rentals contracts 4. dealing with deposits and daily business reports 5. preparing monthly reports 6. general office organization
Email: branditz@yahoo.com or Telephone: 649-246-1228
10939
CUSTOMER SERVICE SUPERVISOR 1. fluent in English and computer literate 2. must be customer service oriented 3. have a valid drivers license and clean police record 4. must be willing to work on weekends, holidays and at nights 5. must have bachelors degree in business administration or similar 6. five years experience in car
Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour send resume to
contact: 946-5396
Is seeking to employ a
babysitter
Labourers Sales Clerk
LANDSCAPE SUPERVISOR Requirements: • Minimum of 5 years gardening experience on large landscape installations, with knowledge on plants/ chemicals and fertilizer sprays and be able to work with minimum supervision • Proficient in the use of heavy machinery (backhoe, bobcat, skytrack, crane) • Effective communication skills both internally and externally • Ability to report on issues • Must be willing to work outdoors with irregular hours, may include weekends and holidays Starting salary $2,000.00 per month Please bring all applications to Flowers by Environmental Arts located at U102 Venture House, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales or email: admin@ environmentalarts.tc Successful applicants will be notified by phone for interview Please provide relevant reference from previous employer 10949
• Applicant must have a minimum of 3 years hands-on experience in a 5-star resort and at least 3 years working as a therapist • Must be trained and CERTIFIED by an accredited school in ALL of the following: Swedish, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone, Prenatal, Lymphatic Drainage, Myofascial, Reflexology, Facials, Manicures and Pedicures • Applicant must be certified in all the previous areas. In addition, applicant must be all to work ALL weekends and public holidays if needed and be available from 8am-8pm. • Must have own vehicle and current, clean driver’s license, commission based • Must have GREAT customer service skills and be upbeat and positive • Applicants need to be fluent in English and pass an English writing test.
Please send resume to: relax@spatropique.com Please do not apply to this ad unless you can meet all the above requirements Please contact us by January 16th, 2015
10900
10944
40 CLASSIFIEDS
January 24 - 30, 2015
Sports Interational
41
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Real Madrid top football rich list for 10th year running REAL Madrid has matched its 10th triumph as champions of Europe by topping the Deloitte football rich list for a 10th straight year. Manchester United moves up from fourth to second on the list, which is based on season 2013-14 revenues. Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain filled the next spots. English clubs Manchester City, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool were placed sixth to ninth, all of them showing healthy rises in revenues. Tottenham were in 13th spot, while there were new entries for Newcastle United and Everton at 19th and 20th. The total combined revenue for the top 20 richest clubs rose by 14% to €6.2bn, the report found. The list only looks at revenues accrued and does not take into account club debts. Real Madrid, which won its socalled “Decima” European Cup/ Champions League after beating city neighbours Atletico 4-1 last May, saw revenues of €549.5m (£459.5m, at average exchange rate for the year ending 30 June 2014). The club saw revenue growth of €30.6m, from increases of 8% and 9% in broadcast and commercial revenues respectively. Other findings include: · Galatasaray was the only club from outside the “big five” European leagues to make the top 20
De Villiers smashed 16 sixes in his world record knock. (Getty image)
Real Madrid continue to shine on and off the football field.
·
Italy’s Napoli was a new entrant into the top 20 after its revenues soared by more than 50% · Spain’s Atletico Madrid moved up from 20th to 15th place after reaching the Champions League final Meanwhile, broadcast rights deals pushed the entire Premier League into the wider top 40 highest earning clubs. “The Premier League’s new broadcast deals have translated into big revenue increases across the English top flight,” said Austin Houlihan, senior manager at Deloitte. “In fact, every Premier League club reported record revenues in 2013-14.” Mr Houlihan said that between
them, the eight English clubs in the top 20 achieved total broadcast revenues of €1.1bn. “The fact that all the clubs in the Premier League are in the top 40 is testament to the huge appeal of the league globally and also the equality of the distributions the clubs enjoy relative to their European counterparts,” he added. “Additionally, the Premier League is currently negotiating for the next cycle of media rights and further uplifts are anticipated.” Once again, the list was dominated by clubs from the so-called “Big Five” leagues; England’s Premier League, Germany’s Bundesliga, Italy’s Serie A, Spain’s La Liga and France’s Ligue 1. (BBC)
A.B. de Villiers smashes Messi’s late goal earns Barcelona 1-0 win fastest one-day century A.B. de Villiers took 31 balls to smash the fastest century in one-day internationals on Sunday as South Africa posted two for 439, their highest team total in this format, in the second ODI against West Indies at the Wanderers. Described by retired Australian stumper Adam Gilchrist as the “most valuable cricketer on the planet” earlier this week, de Villiers blasted 16 sixes and nine fours in his blistering 44-ball knock of 149, bettering New Zealander Corey Anderson’s 36-ball century against West Indies last year. The 30-year-old right-hander went down on his knees and slogswept Jason Holder over deep midwicket for his 10th six to bring up his century before raising his bat and taking off his helmet with a broad smile on his face. Coming out to bat after a 247-run opening stand between Hashim Amla (153 not out) and Rilee Rossouw
(128), de Villiers set a record for the fastest half-century as well. He reached the milestone in 16 balls, improving the previous best mark by Sri Lankan Sanath Jayasuriya against Pakistan in 1996 by a delivery. Known for his improvisation, the Proteas ODI captain manufactured big shots and cleared the boundary at will. He was eventually out in the final over of the innings, one run away from shattering the record for fastest 150, currently held by Australian Shane Watson who reached the mark in 83 balls against Bangladesh. Rossouw struck his maiden ODI century with a relatively sedate 128 from 115 deliveries, while Amla registered his highest ODI score from 142 balls. South Africa beat their previous highest 50-over score of 438 at the same ground against Australia in 2006. (Smh.com.au)
LIONEL Messi missed a late penalty but converted the rebound as Barcelona beat Atletico Madrid 1-0 in their Copa del Rey quarter-final first leg. The Argentine’s 83rd-minute spot-kick was saved by Jan Oblak, but the forward was quickest to react as Barca finally broke the deadlock. The penalty was awarded after Sergio Busquets appeared to go down easily under a challenge from Gabi. Earlier, Luis Suarez blazed wildly over from close range. Barcelona dominated possession but failed to create clear openings, with Suarez wasting the first standout opportunity of the game. With the goal at his mercy, the former Liverpool striker’s rushed attempt was a world away from the clinical finishing that defined his time at Anfield. Fernando Torres, who scored twice against Real Madrid in the previous round, was withdrawn at the break, having seen an attempt on goal blocked by the legs of Gerard Pique. Atletico threatened when Antoine
Lionel Messi (left) converted from a penalty rebound.
Griezmann headed over when wellplaced in the penalty area after a Guilherme Siqueira cross, but again the final finishing touch was lacking. A dull second half sprang to life when Busquets went down in the penalty area, with replays appearing to suggest any contact with Atletico captain Gabi was minimal.
From the resultant spot-kick, Messi’s shot to Oblak’s left was well saved, but the 27-year-old was quickly on hand to convert the rebound for his 29th goal of the season. The two teams meet again at Atletico’s Vicente Calderon Stadium on Wednesday, 28 January. (BBC)
42
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
January 24 - 30, 2015
2014 Year in Review JUNE - JULY
named Best Men’s Player and Best Women’s Player respectively when the Turks and Caicos Islands Rugby Football Union (TCIRFU) held its award ceremony in early June 2014 at the Rugby Summer Ball. The male top prize was sponsored by Digicel while the female top prize came from PWC. Another big award was the TCIRFU Person of the Year, which was won by Austin Dickinson for work done in Grand Turk in building their rugby programme. Gareth Butler, Lloyd Inwards and Fraser Dods received honourable mention. Michael Williams won the U19 award which was sponsored by Meridian Trust.
Horton and Hartling impressive at Sol Rally Barbados -Hope to one day host competitive motor sports in TCI
Hope LeVin (right) had a number of outstanding performances in 2014.
JUNE Venyu Triple-s Invitational:
LeVin finish second in surf, third overall IN
2014
TCI’S
Hope
LeVin
continued to impress on the international kiteboarding stage. The young Provo resident notched up a third place finish in the Venyu Triple-s Invitational (dubbed the best kiteboarding event) which was held earlier this month at the Cape Hatteras National Seashore in North Carolina.
Cara Buddle, who was outstanding in the mixed tag team league, copped the Best Female Player award.
LeVin, who started the sport in 2005 when she was 11, finished second in the Women’s Surf competition, third in the Women’s Slicks and third overall in the event.
Jones and Buddle nab top rugby awards
National player Callis Jones and female rugger Cara Buddle, who was outstanding in the earlier Pizza Pizza Mixed Tagged Rugby League, were
TCI was once again placed on the motor racing map when established racers Paul Horton and Stan Hartling competed in the Caribbean’s biggest international motor sport event Sol Rally Barbados early in June 2014. The established drivers who raced under the Turks and Caicos Motoring Club contested two competitive classes this year with Horton, and co-driver Kris Yearwood, competing in the Super Modified 7 division with his well-prepared classic Ford Escort Mk 1 and Harting, with co-driver Andy Proudfoot, racing in the Super Modified 12 in a BMW M3.
Davis’s strike gives Cheshire Hall President’s
Paul Horton and co-driver Kris Yearwood finished second in the Super Modified 7 with his well-prepared classic Ford Escort Mk 1.
Cup title
FORMER WIV PPL winners Cheshire Hall denied the AFC Academy the important double on June 15, when they won the President’s Cup by a slim 1-0 margin at the Academy ground. Cheshire Hall’s Jonoy Davis was able to score early from a put back in a game controlled by the Academy, but started with a make-shift keeper.
JULY Matsuzaki’s historic swim grabs international media attention
WHEN veteran long distance swimmer Yuko Matsuzaki emerged from the waters of Grace Bay, after a 13-mile sea swim from Sandy Point, North Caicos (the first person on record to have completed the feat) in early July, she opened the flood gates for the sport in the TCI. Ben Stubenberg, event manager and one of the organisers of “Race for the Conch” Eco-SeaSwim said that the objective now is to make the long distance sea swim an annual event. “Race for the Conch” Eco SeaSwim:
Redmond makes it three in a row -Sloan defends title
PROVO residents Dan Redmond and Jessica Sloan successfully defended their one-mile championship male and female titles respectively last Saturday in the
January 24 - 30, 2015
43
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
2014 Year in Review JUNE - JULY
Jonoy Davis scored the lone goal in the President’s Cup final.
fifth instalment of the “Race for the Conch” Eco SeaSwim. For Redmond it was his third consecutive win, while for Sloan (29:24) it was number two. Race day this year featured three exciting swim races and several new beach and water activities. In the 2.4 miles (Iron Man) distance event Laura Hamel and Dirk Hamel (mother and son) from the US took first places in 1:02.27 and 48.56 respectively.
Bien-Aime is first female football president in CONCACAF region
In July, TCI was buzzing with excitement when golden girl Sonia
Bien-Aime was appointed as the new president of the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA). With the appointment Bien-Aime became the first female president of the TCIFA and the first female president in CONCACAF. At that time she was one of just two female football presidents in the entire world. Big names in football such as CONCACAF president Jeffery Webb, Caribbean Football Union (CFU) president Gordon Derrick, CONCACAF VP Horace Burrell, Jamaican Football Association president Damian Hughes and several other regional footballing authorities were in the TCI for the historic appointment.
Dan Redmond (plunging) won his third consecutive one-mile title. (Photo by Brilliant Studios)
TCICA T20 cricket:
Devassy’s half century leads Kishco to title
A man-of-the-match performance by Smijo Devassy propelled underdogs Kishco to a six-wicket win over defending champions Quality Super Kings in the final of the TCI Cricket Association T20 competition on July 27. The Kings batted first and were routed for 118 in 18.1 overs, Kishco then cruised to 119-4 in 17.1 overs. Devassy hit nine fours and a six in his score of 62. 2014 Commonwealth Games:
Elected TCIFA president Sonia Bien-Aime flanked by CONCACAF head Jeffery Webb (left) and CFU president Gordon Derrick (Photo courtesy of Renau Destine, Spotlight Communications).
Otuonye did not get “desired distance” despite breaking national record
IFEANYI Otuonye left the jump pit of the 2014 Commonwealth Games grateful, but unsatisfied. He had just broken the TCI national long jump record again, but
The 2014 TCICA T20 cricket champs Kishco.
the determined sportsman still felt he had more in him to push further. The US University based multitalented athlete jumped 7.16M in his first attempt, while in his second he leaped to the new record of 7.47M— surpassing his previous best of 7.43M. In his third jump he reached 7.37M.
Some of the TCI participants and officials in Scotland. (Photo from TCI Government Office)
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
January 24 - 30, 2015
President’s Cup:
Sharks, Cheshire Hall and Rozo FC to battle ROZO FC advanced to the second round of the Digicel Play PPL President’s Cup after Peggy Ponceley scored a hat-trick against Teachers FC in the latest round of play. With the win they will now join the SWA Sharks and defending champions Cheshire Hall in a mini league to select the top two sides. The former champions Rozo scored the opener (Ponceley), before Teachers drew even from a Dane Ritchie strike and then went ahead 2-1. Rozo FC then scored three unanswered goals for the win. Two Saturdays ago, also at the Academy ground, the Sharks shocked Provo Premier League defending champions the Academy with a 9-8 penalty win, after a 1-1 full time finish. In that game president of the PPL Steve Kendrew was outstanding in goal and he made a crucial save in the shootout. Last Tuesday defending
Digicel Play PPL President Steve Kendrew was outstanding in goal for the Sharks in their clash against the AFC Academy.
President’s Cup champs Cheshire Hall defeated Beaches 2-1. Beaches scored after four minutes with former Jamaican youth cricketer Antony McKnight showing his footballing skills with a successful
30 yard shot to goal, but a goal from Rodney Etienne and a late strike (88th minute) from Lenford Singh sealed the win. The top two teams will advance to the final in May.
Luis Turbyfield was extremely happy about being selected.
Turbyfield elated with US U-19 rugby team selection – TCIRFU “extremely proud”
The Nazarene Kings, who had defeated the Coco Cola Classics two weeks ago for their first PABA win, defeated the Sonics and lost to the Hustlers last weekend.
PABA Night League:
Police stay undefeated THE POLICE Badgers seem to be the team to beat this season in the Provo Amateur Basketball Association (PABA) Night League. After beating the defending champions the Grand Turk Stallions 66-58 in their previous clash, the Badgers kept their undefeated record intact with a four point win over the Shottas on Saturday night at the Gus Lightbourne Sports Complex court in Providenciales. Raymeeko Smith led the scoring with 24 points and six boards while Saundro Jermain had a double double with 21 points and 11 boards. Sugar Ray Smith led the Shottas with 19 points and six
boards. Also on Saturday night the Hustlers defeated the Nazarene Kings 79-75. The Kings, a much improved team, featuring mainly high school players, were led by Lofton Seymour (17 points and five steals) and Dwayne Hamilton (17 points and six boards). The Hustlers were led by skipper Kirk Adams who scored 21 points made 10 rebounds and three steals. Davanio Quant added 16 points and seven boards. The Kings, who recorded their first PABA win two weeks ago, had earned their second on Friday night after a 20-point win 72-52 against the Sonics. Seymour led with 23
points and three steals while the trio of Jerome Parker (10 points and nine rebounds), Hamilton (10 points and four boards) and Ralph McKinnon (10 points and nine boards) all played their parts. Darly Francois led the Sonics with 21 points and four rebounds. Friday night tipped off with the Knights defeating the Steelers 5045 in a competitive clash. Andujar Gardiner finished with 19 points and six boards while Elvis Big Country Smith finished with nine points and eight rebounds for the winners. Wesley cherry scored nine points and grabbed eight rebounds for the Steelers.
LUIS Turbyfield, who represented the TCI at both the U19 and senior levels, has been selected to represent the USA in the All American High School team which will compete at the upcoming Las Vegas Sevens tournament on February 13th and 14th. The 18-year-old, who was forced to relinquish his positions in the TCI due to conflict of interests, is elated with the selection. “SUCH A GREAT FEELING” “I feel amazing for being selected, it’s such a great feeling that not many get to experience, and I am blessed and lucky enough that I get to experience this.” Turbyfield was one of 24 U-19 players in the entire US, who was selected for the tournament. The accomplishment drew high praises from president of the Turks and Caicos Islands Rugby Football Union (TCIRFU) Keith Burant. EXTREMELY PROUD “The TCIRFU is extremely proud of Luis for being selected to the USHSAA team and the TCI should all be impressed with his accomplishment.”
Burant went on to say that the TCI has a “great deal of talent and that the TCIRFU has worked diligently with the youths to teach them the rules, skills and ethos of the sport of rugby.” The rugby head added that Turbyfield has dedicated himself to improving not only his rugby skills, but his fitness through weight training, extra cardio fitness and proper nutrition. He credited international exposure, including travelling opportunities to Ireland, Canada, Mexico, Jamaica and T&T over the past few years for Luis’s drive. “The TCIRFU wishes Luis all the best in his debut in Las Vegas and I hope he will inspire a number of the other young TCI rugby players that have great natural talent, but fail to devote enough effort to fitness and proper nutrition, to change their habits.” For Turbyfield, who was born in the US, but travelled to the TCI as a baby, the achievement is “huge”. “I knew I would be able to do it, I just had to put in the work at the try outs and over the past few years since I knew rugby is what I wanted to move forward with.”
January 24 - 30, 2015
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Confident Garland breaks national indoor record in season opener
Angelo Garland ran personal bests in both the 400M and the 200M events.
TCI’s top 400M runner Angelo Garland has broken his indoor record after a successful season opener last Friday at his university’s 13 Team Texas A&M Invitational in the USA. The sophomore ran 48.44s to eclipse the 48.47s he ran last February at the Southland Conference Indoor Championships. The latest run earned Garland a second place finish in the meet. In total Garland has now broken the indoor 400M record three times after he took it from another athletic sensation Ifeanyi Outonye. “It’s a great confidence booster, because when I broke the record last year it was at the end of the
indoor season. For me to come now at my first meet and break that record it tells me that I’m already in better form than last year.” SECOND FASTEST Garland, who also holds the junior and senior outdoor records, also ran a personal best in the 200M 20 minutes after his 400M event. His 22.31s was the second best in his school’s history. He missed the record by 0.06s. Later in the day the young man anchored his 4X400M team to a 49.2 split and a heat win. At the moment the former Munro College student has no predictions about his season. “I just want to surprise myself.”
Fenelus ready to work harder after New England Revolution selection NATIONAL footballer Marco Fenelus is ready to work harder after being selected in the third round of the Major League Soccer 2015 Super draft by the New England Revolution. The 22-year-old is over the moon with the recent selection and promises to put in the hours to become a regular for one of the top Major League Soccer clubs in the US. “My career is going stage by stage. I have to succeed in one stage in order to make it to another. It started from back home where I had to do good both in sport and school in order to get a scholarship to a junior college (Western Texas College); I had to perform well in what I do to get to the NCAA 1st division college team (Cal State Fullerton University). From there to the MLS Combine, to getting drafted, and now my objective in this stage is to work harder than before to make the team’s roster.” Fenelus is aware that it is not an easy road. He is however confident and feels that all his success has motivated him.
Marco Fenelus was selected fifth in the third round of the draft.
A DREAM The forward, who scored last June in the 2-0 win against BVI in the preliminary qualifying round for the 2014 Caribbean Cup in Aruba, calls
the draft a dream. “I’m very excited to get drafted by one of the top teams in the country, and I will make every bit of opportunity I have count….This
has always been, not just, my dream, but every young player out there dream to make it to pro level. I am very excited to start preseason with the team, to make them, and most
importantly, my country proud. I can’t wait.” Fenelus who was outstanding for his university last season was one of 55 college players in the draft.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
January 24 - 30, 2015
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January 24 - 30, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
January 24 - 30, 2015