TCWN May 10-16, 2014

Page 1

Weekly News Gov’t lost Volume 28 | No. 19 | May 10 - 16, 2014

Price $1.00

Turks and Caicos

FOR ADVERTISING CONTACT:

tcnews@tciway.tc

the national newspaper of the turks and caicos islands

ON THE WEB tcweeklynews.com

millions – Leaked report highlights failures in public accounts

About $26 million in unpaid revenue was owed to the Government at the end of the 2012/2013 financial year, the Weekly News can reveal.

PAGE

5

Brielle Swann takes this year’s TCI Top Model title PAGE 

NIB lost $15.8m from TCI Bank closure PAGE  4

$260 loan went to unpaid bills and PAGE 8 Gov’t expenditure

12

Clashes over PAGE 9 Gov’t supported concessions for small businesses


2

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 10 - 16, 2014


May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

3


4

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 10 - 16, 2014

NIB lost $15.8m from TCI Bank closure A MASSIVE $15.8 million in social security funds are as good as gone following the collapse of TCI Bank four years ago, records reveal. But the figure could have been much higher if it were not for a successful lawsuit and an unexpectedly large dividend payment. Recent Weekly News investigations into the bank’s liquidation uncovered the financial reality behind the National Insurance Board (NIB)’s investments. Comprehensive bi-annual liquidator reports show that NIB’s $2 million equity investment was immediately lost when the doomed financial institution went into liquidation in 2010. And while $3.5 million out of a massive $17.3 million deposited into the bank was returned in the first dividend payment in 2012 – more than $13.8 million has yet to be seen. Luckily for the board a $5.5 million loan paid to keep the bank afloat just months before it went bust was returned, with interest, in 2013 following a lengthy lawsuit with the liquidators. TROUBLE BEGINS The board received a barrage of criticism concerning its large investment into the indigenous financial facility after it collapsed in 2010. It became headline news when it was revealed that the NIB ignored its own investment policy to pump funds into the four-year-old institution. The policy stated that only five per cent of funds should be invested into a single institution and only ten per cent within the TCI. However about quarter of the public contributions to the social insurance scheme were poured into TCI Bank - close to $25 million. Of that $2 million was invested in shares, making the NIB one of the major shareholders of TCI Bank, and a colossal $17,313,064 was placed in deposit accounts. When the bank began to suffer

from liquidity problems in 2009 NIB pumped another $5.5 million into the institution to keep it afloat. But problems arose when $4 million was quickly removed by depositors within months of the loan, dragging it back to its former position. It was not long after that, that the Financial Services Institution called for the liquidation of the company. For many months Chairman Ervine M Quelch was put under pressure to explain the board’s huge investments in the failing facility. He claimed that foreign markets were in trouble and the NIB would have lost significantly more if larger investment had been made abroad. “It made no sense for NIB to pump money into the external market when it’s in absolute turmoil,” he said. Instead the board decided to “park” a large percentage of its funds in local banking institutions - including TCI bank which offered high rates of interest. He later explained that the $5.5 million rescue package was given with the Governor’s consent and included conditions for “robust changes” in TCI Bank’s senior management and board of directors. “We also requested a deeply concerted effort to address concerns that the auditors had raised regarding the bank’s operations. We hoped that would be done urgently to avoid collapse. Obviously that did not happen and we are where we are now because of it.” When former NIB director Trevor Cooke resigned from his post in July 2011 he responded to criticism over some of his decisions on TCI Bank. “It’s just one of those business opportunities that did not pan out properly,” he said. “It’s not the first time NIB has lost money, but it’s the first time it has lost such a sizeable amount.” DIVIDEND PAYMENT In October 2010 Anthony Kikivarakis and Mark Munnings of Bahamas firm Deloitte Touche were appointed

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 Faizool Deo - Sports Editor (At Large) Daisy Handfield - Staff Reporter Cord Garrido-Lowe - Graphics Consultant (At Large) Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams - Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@yahoo.com, tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com

the joint official liquidators of the bank by the TCI Supreme Court. That November financial experts warned TCIB’s 4,500 account holders that they risked losing up to 90 per cent of their money and that it could be years before any cash was repaid. However in March 2012 the liquidators announced that they had recovered enough money from collection of outstanding loan repayments to award customers with their first dividend payment of 20 per cent. Before it went under, the NIB had $17,313,064 resting in deposit accounts in TCI Bank, allowing for a dividend return of $3,462,612. To date the institution has lost out on $13,850,452 until further dividend payments are made. Despite repeated requests Kikivarakis, who has now been appointed sole liquidator, did not provide an indication of the amount or timing of future payments. COURT CASE In January 2011 the National Insurance Board filed a summons requiring the liquidators to appear before justice Richard Williams that March. It demanded that the liquidators pay back the $5.5 million loan the board had stumped up in attempts to save the bank. Details of the court case which spanned several years have not

previously been published in local media. At the time former director and chief executive office Trevor Cooke told the Weekly News: “As soon as the bank went into full liquidation, we wrote to the liquidators asking for our funds. “They refused to comply with the request on the basis that the recoverable assets of the bank are likely, in their opinion, to exceed the secured liabilities of the board.” He said repaying NIB’s loan should have been given immediate priority by the company. The case was set to be heard before Justice Richard Williams in Providenciales’ Supreme Court on March 25 but was adjourned until April 1. In their second and third liquidation reports Kikivarakis and Munnings explained that on that date they filed an affidavit with the court detailing their objection to NIB’s request for the company’s assets or $5.5 million plus interest. They said they had requested an extension to further investigate the events surrounding the issuance of the loan. Assisted by attorney Clayton Greene they planned to examine officers, directors, management personnel of the company and other interested parties to satisfy themselves that the loan was an arms-length transaction. The liquidators explained that

they were concerned about “the timing of the transaction, the interlocking directorship between the company and NIB and securitisation of all of the assets of the company in transaction.” Justice Richard Williams adjourned the case for six months and Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale later extended the adjournment further. “The determination of this matter is of fundamental importance to all creditors,” they wrote. “If the NIB’s claim is allowed $5.5 million plus interest or the company’s assets will be regarded as restricted, thus further reducing possible dividends to be paid to the company’s other creditors.” In their fourth report dated June 30, 2012, the liquidators explained the extent of their investigations. They conducted interviews, looked at company documents and accounts, conducted a financial analysis of the body, and performed a cost benefit analysis of the potential outcome of proceedings. “From an analysis of our investigations and further discussions with our UK attorneys we were advised and agreed that it was not commercially feasible at this time, without having access to further information or knowledge of other matters, to continue to challenge the demand for payment continued 

Spate of vehicle thefts sparks police warning – Officers say likely to be a common set of thieves THREE vehicle thefts and 14 cases of vandalism in just one week have caused police to raise the alarm among TCI’s motorists. A “substantial amount” of cash and other valuable possessions were stolen from vehicles during the break-ins across Providenciales from Monday, April 28, to this Monday (May 5). A police press release urged residents to be vigilant and use sensible measures to protect both their cars and possessions. Special Constable Audley Astwood, public relations officer, said: “I would urge motorists to not leave valuables within their vehicles and where possible to park their vehicles in a well-lit area, and preferably avoid isolated locations. “The use of alarms, locking fuel caps and other security devices should be used at all times.” Expensive items such as smartphones, laptops and other

pricey electronic items remain high on the list of stolen goods. “But despite this many persons are still leaving such items in their vehicles. Some are even leaving such items in plain view and hence inadvertently become targets for thieves,” the press release read. “It is best not to leave items in a vehicle, especially in plain view for all to see. “Even a bag which contains only garbage can potentially attract attention to your vehicle and leave the car owner paying a hefty price because thieves may think that the bag contains valuables.” As officers carried out investigations into the vehicle related thefts, a bus that was reported stolen from a business place on Airport Road was recovered. No arrest has yet been made in relation to that incident. Police believe that there is a common perpetrator or set of

perpetrators committing these vehicle related thefts. Members of the public should report any suspicious behaviour or people who are in close proximity to a parked vehicle to the Chalk Sound Police Station on 941-8083. Alternatively to remain anonymous they can call the charity Crimestoppers on 1-800-TIPS. Callers are asked to provide the police with a detailed description of the suspect(s) and relevant vehicle information when applicable such as licence plate number, make, model and colour. Police are also appealing to residents to be extra vigilant and report to the police or Crimestoppers anyone offering items for sale at the front door or on the streets. “It is believed that the thefts are fuelling the illegal drug trade and anyone caught with stolen goods can face a maximum of 14 years imprisonment,” the release read.

9


May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

5

Gov’t lost out on millions – Leaked report highlights failures in public accounts ABOUT $26 million in unpaid revenue was owed to the Government at the end of the 2012/2013 financial year, the Weekly News can reveal. But according to a document obtained by this newspaper, much of it is likely to have been uncollectable because of huge inconsistencies in public accounts. The ‘Auditor General’s Report on the 2012/2013 TCIG Financial Statements’ was laid before the House of Assembly last week. Auditor General Anand Heeraman of the National Audit Office (NAO) led the assessment along with four auditors and four assistant auditors. The paper, dated March 19, 2014, highlights several areas of material weakness and significant deficiencies with the Government’s financial handling. It also talks of areas where TCIG is not complying with laws, regulations, policies and procedures. $26 MILLION ARREARS? By March 31, 2013, the Government had accumulated arrears of revenue totalling about $18.9 million according to a statement from the Ministry of Finance, the audit report said. Most of the money - many millions - was listed as unpaid contributions for TCI’s special needs school. However there were major discrepancies in the figures between the ministries and Government departments making it difficult to recoup and redistribute the correct amount of cash. In fact “none of the figures were in agreement,” the Auditor General wrote. The total arrears on the statement provided by the Ministry of Finance was $18.9 million while records provided by the departments showed $24 million – a huge difference of $5.1 million. The largest discrepancy was in the reporting of ‘Contributions towards special school’ which differed a massive $7 million. The Ministry of Health and Education reported that it was owed just $12.2 million while the department records showed missing payments of $19.3 million. The next largest inconsistency was on the reporting of stamp duty - a difference of nearly $1.2 million

between the Ministry of Finance’s statement and missing department records. Unpaid debts of $615,000 in casino winning tax, $200,000 from the port authority, $54,000 in casino location licences, $35,000 from the DECR, $25,000 in casino business licences and $9,000 from the immigration department were not listed by the departments. Meanwhile the ministry recorded an excess $93,000 casino certificates and $30,000 for import duty, and the departments showed additional arrears of about $215,000 in gaming machine tax, $185,000 in business licence fees, $15,000 in hotel and restaurant tax, $4,000 in casino permits. Updated information in the Annual Statement of Public Accounts shows the amount of revenue arrears being $26.6 million. These discrepancies increased the risk of TCIG not collecting the accurate amount of debt, the report read. “TCIG is unable to get a reliable source of information concerning their revenue arrears. “Because of this the resources and focus may be placed on the wrong department or section and hinder debt collect process. “Also TCIG will not be able to collect on all the monies owed to them.” The report suggests that in the future the statement of arrears should be confirmed as true by all departments before finalisation, and each department should also make available their supporting documents. It went on to reveal that this year steps have been taken to improve the information gathering process and secure signed confirmation from each accounting officer. OTHER FAILURES Numerous other financial blunders were revealed in the comprehensive report and listed as ‘high risk’. The Auditor General stated that the Government has inadequate financial control in processing expenditure, both under and over $75,000. There was a lack of investigation and post audits for concessions totalling $23.9 million and poor management of fixed assets, he said.

Revenue arrears that differ from department records 2012/2013

A huge hole highlighted was inadequate management, control and documentation of excess expenditure – which in 2012/2013 accounted for $19 million. And the audit discovered inadequate maintenance of payroll information, inadequate fraud risk management and inadequate management of stores. About $12.7 million in outstanding loans from TCInvest was underscored as was the lack of financial limits on Smart Stream Securities. The Government has ineffective controls over expenditure of the Development Fund, lack of support documents to verify donor funding received, and incomplete or lack of information presented for audit, the report stated. In 2012/2013 there was inadequate management of advances, lack of support documents attached

to payments for verification and possible duplicate items identified. Finally identified as high risk was expenditure over $10,000 not approved in accordance with regulations, and lack of support documents for items reported in the Contingent Liabilities Statement. A further 18 items were listed as moderate or low risk to public accounts. These will be addressed in more detail in further newspaper reports. MORE ETHICS LESS PAPERWORK A risk and internal controls assessment determined that TCIG’s internal controls were adequate but had much room for improvement. The report explained that controls built-in to the Government’s infrastructure support quality and empowerment initiatives, avoid unnecessary costs and enable quick

response to changing conditions. “However, they are not being adequately adhered to and enforcement of these controls is necessary as it leaves TCIG open to unwanted risk exposures. “Efforts should be geared towards the elimination of unnecessary paperwork and problems should be detected before they are brought to the attention of those charged with governance.” The assessment pinpointed accounting officers as those responsible for emphasising the importance of internal control through their actions, attitudes and words. That includes the ethical values they display in their dealings, both inside and outside of the public service, the report read. “While having a strong internal continued 

7


6

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 10 - 16, 2014

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

Right to continue fishing study?

A FISHING study that has used notoriously destructive long lines over the past six months to determine the economically viability of off-shore fishing stocks, is continuing despite requests to halt it. In March this year elected member for Blue Hills Goldray Ewing presented a motion to parliament to stop the two year study which members passed following debate. However last week Premier Rufus Ewing said that the Government is not obliged to act upon motions taken to the House of Assembly and it will continue for the foreseeable future. What are your thoughts on the fishing study? Do you think it should have been halted to save marine life? Or do you think it is important that it continues until completion?

Hurting our nation

Long lining is very destructive as tens of thousands of baited hooks are deployed which kill indiscriminately, furthermore this type of fishing does not yield the best capital return for our nation and our people. The process involves overseas fishing crews coming into our waters and catching vast quantities of pelagic fish to their benefit. This hurts our nation in two ways: Firstly, the tourist fishery which pays top dollar, does not harvest heavily, and puts good money in the pockets of local business owners as well as the fishing guides are forced to work harder to catch fish or even a fish for the tourists from a depleted school of harried fish. Secondly fish do have a fifth sense as it is noted around the world that fish gather in great numbers in places where there is no commercial fishing pressure. The facts show that in fishery national parks the world over vast schools of fish will gather while just outside these parks the sea appears devoid of life. With these facts in mind, I would encourage our Premier Rufus Ewing to strengthen his inner man and stand up and join with MP Goldray Ewing and put a stop to this destructive fishing practice ASAP. So instead of allowing foreign fishing boats to rape our wonderful virgin fishing grounds, our wise leaders would protect our valuable resources and invest the available time, energy and money in such things as deploying a fish attracting device, both surface and sub-surface within our national waters to build a world class tourist fishery, as well as encouraging an apprentice programme with the intention of developing young Turks and Caicos Islands men and women to the point that they can own and operate their own charter fishing businesses.

Not the way

Well done, TCI, let’s continue this way. Bring back long line fishing. Throw garbage

all over the place, while driving the car or on the beach. Use lots of plastic, double bag the lot. Kill your reefs. Open a dolphinarium. Bring in pitbulls and don’t spay/neuter the potcakes have them maul a few more people. Get more monopolies like Fortis and continue using fossil fuels. Throw your car oil into the bush. And while you are at it, continue to make the running of a business really difficult. Hike up taxes or get in new ones. Go for it! Kill everything that makes this island a successful tourist destination. Your children, yes, the very next generation, will have filthy islands full of garbage, dead reefs, no tourism and no jobs.

When will it stop?

Every day reveals that this Government and this Premier are recycled leftovers of what was experienced in the 2003-2009 administration. Lawlessness and no respect for the law including the actions of the House of Assembly which they now avoid like the plague because they only have a one seat government. Next they will shut it down as the previous Premier did when he was in danger of being removed. This group had stripped the Crown land, put us deeply in debt while they benefit from the corporations they set up. Now they turn to stripping the fish stocks of the TCI. When God, will it stop? When will our people wake up and realise they were and are being swindled? When will the PDM call for a motion of no confidence and reveal where the Governor’s appointed members stand.

Must be halted

Fish feed my family and fishing is now producing less food. Now the lawless ones strip and sell the fish. They sold thousands of pounds stripped by the long line fishing for little over two dollars

a pound. If long line fishing was banned by the house motion the marine patrol must halt it. We will be eating lizards and potcakes next. The cat population has already gone down. Rufus eats steak and laughs at the poor people who were dumb enough to elect him. He does his best to copy his mentor and hero. Has the Progressive National Party ever followed the law?

it would be foolhardy to stop the study which has already provided valuable data which will help us preserve our position and our quotas. It has also shown significant stocks of valuable species which can allow a new direction for development of the business from within TCI and reason to restrict access to any foreign vessels and operations.

Foolhardy to quit

Just like all the scams that affect the TCI and its weak system of Government, this fishing study was designed to get the Government to study something to do the wrong thing. You do not need a study to know if long line fishing is wrong for these Islands, but we spent a few hundred thousand of our money trying to find out what we already know. Long line is bad. But where is the regulator? Why is Kathleen Wood, head of the Department of Emvironment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA) so silent on this issue? Yes and why can’t the elected Government take a stand for the people? Why does the Opposition always have to step in? Why can’t the Government elected to represent the people get up and really represent the people? We agree that the Government is not obliged to act on motions but this motion makes sense and the Government should fall in to protect the environment. Should not use his power to stop what’s good and support what’s bad. It hurts us all. The policy should be conservation. But all players are looking out for themselves and have forgotten the need to protect the environment

There is a slight misunderstanding on this entire issue. In order to properly clarify the situation it should be made clear that the Fisheries Advisory Council has made a number of proposals and during the past month has held meeting with fishermen and those operating fishing charters for tourists as well as any members of the public in order to ensure public awareness and to then proceed with recommendations to Cabinet for amendment to the Regulations under the Fisheries Protection Ordinance. The first on the list is a Regulation for the PROHIBITION of Long Line Fishing (except in respect of scientific study). The reason for the exception is that if we are to conduct such studies on migratory species this is an effective method for efficient collection of data during a short migration period. Information on the nature of the study has been made available and it must be noted that this is a study on pelagic fish stocks and their migration through our waters. Many different methods will be used. The first phase was to gain a significant sample during a migration period. The subsequent phases will look at the effectiveness of practical fishing methods which can be used and which are affordable for local fishermen to enter the market. Such methods will include ‘Green Stick’ which is very likely the most practical for local fishermen to have effective commercial success without huge capital spend and without the need to seek foreign participation. The Premier is correct in his statement and

Take a stand

 Become a contributor Want to become a contributor or have a suggestion for a Talk Back topic for us? What questions do you think we should be putting to the public? And what are your thoughts on it? Call our news team on 946 4664 or email tcweeklynews@gmail.com


May 10 - 16, 2014

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

7

Government owed $12 Crown denied extension to appeal million in TCInvest loans Clyde Robinson judgement – Audit report suggests write off if cash unrecoverable BORROWERS owe close to $12.7 million to the TCI Government in outstanding loans, a leaked audit report revealed this week. The cash was issued by TCInvest, a statutory investment agency, before it was shut down due to financial difficulties in 2012. Information on the body was disclosed in the ‘Auditor General’s Report on the 2012/2013 TCIG Financial Statements’ which was laid before the House of Assembly last week. It suggested a possible write off for unrecoverable funds. TCInvest was set up in 1995 to promote business development both within TCI and from outside investors. In its earlier years it was instrumental in building the relationships that encouraged new investments and entrepreneurs within the TCI. However former Governor Ric Todd closed it down following an in depth review of the body which revealed that accrued losses from social lending had left a huge financial deficit. The essential functions of the investment agency were passed on to the Government. The audit report, dated March 19, 2014, gave details of the results of

TCInvest’s legacy of handing out loans. “There is currently $12,687,310 outstanding on loans issued by TCInvest,” it read. This is made up of $9,733,368 in general loans, $109,124 in insurance and $2,844,818 in TOLCO loans. “There is uncertainty on TCIG’s plans for recoverability of the outstanding amount. The outstanding amount may not be recoverable.” The Auditor General went on to recommend that the Government needs to establish if the outstanding amount is able to be returned. If it is not, recommendations should be made to the House of Assembly to write it off and those responsible brought to account. The audit paper, dated March 19, 2014, highlights several areas of material weakness and significant deficiencies with the Government’s financial handling. It also talks of areas where TCIG is not complying with laws, regulations, policies and procedures. Auditor General Anand Heeraman of the National Audit Office (NAO) led the assessment along with four auditors and four assistant auditors. (RB)

Gov’t lost out on ... continued from 

5

control culture does not guarantee that an organisation will reach its goals, the lack of such a culture provides greater opportunities for errors to go undetected or for improprieties to occur or both.” LEAKED REPORT The audit report covered the period April 1, 2012, to March 31, 2013, and more than 508,000 transactions were extracted during the process. The sample population varied depending on the areas audited, its risks and potential impact and materiality. “Our audit covered areas under revenue and expenditure including a review of the entitywide internal controls system,” the report read. A fraud risk assessment was also conducted which involved interviewing a number of public officers. According to the Public Finance Management Ordinance and the National Audit Office Ordinance, the aims of the audit are to make sure accounts and statements conform to legal requirements and that they give a true or fair view of the Government’s financial position. It should also ensure that the internal control system and provision of internal audit services within the TCIG are adequate, and that its financial affairs have been conducted with regularity and propriety.

The audit assesses whether reasonable precautions have be taken to safeguard proper collection of money and in connection with the receipt, custody, issue of and accounting for any asset. Finally it checks if receipts, payments and other transactions are made legally and that satisfactory management measures are in place to ensure that public resources are procured economically and used efficiently and effectively. In carrying out the audit, NAO staff conducted risk assessments of Government accounts, held meetings with several senior civil servants and Government officials, conducted electronic data reviews, analysed financial data, reviewed sampled accounts and assessed compliance. They also looked at internal controls, conducted a fraud risk assessment, performed a criteria, condition, cause and effect exercise and reviewed hundreds of documents. In speaking of limitations the report read: “Our reporting timeframe was affected by the inadequate documentation, severe shortage of critical staff, an increased scope of work, the level, complexity and impact of potential risks, compliance requirements under new law and the conduct of an internal controls and fraud risk assessment.” (RB)

THE COURT of Appeal on Thursday (May 8) denied an application by the Crown for an extension of time to appeal a Supreme Court judgement in favour of former Director of Planning, Clyde Robinson and his former wife. The Crown made an application for an extension of time for documents to be served on the other side as well as with the court. The Court of Appeal Ordinance states that an appellant has 28 days to file an appeal in a civil case; however as it relates to the question of procedure when it comes to lodging documents the rules of the Bahamas court is sometimes applied. This gives an appellant six weeks to lodge documents. The next option for the Crown is move to the Privy Council to appeal the Court of Appeal’s decision. Laurence Harris, partner with Edward Wildman, told the Weekly News that the Civil Recovery Team will be considering the written judgement when it is delivered as well as the next steps to be taken. Robinson and his ex-wife, Susannah Bishop were accused of flipping land for $1.5 million. The Crown’s case alleged that Robinson – who acquired land in Long Bay Hills for $70,000 transferred it for no consideration to his former wife. She then sold it to Wawa Co Ltd, a company owned by Canadian property developer Stan Hartling, for $1.5 million as part of the proposed Shore Club development.

In her judgement, Judge Margaret Ramsay-Hale found that the Crown, represented by attorney with the Civil Recovery Team, David Phillips QC, did not prove the case for knowing receipt and/or dishonest assistance, breach of fiduciary duties, unjust enrichment, fraudulent representation/deceit and another claim for stamp duty. However, she found that former Minister of Natural Resources, McAllister Hanchell, in directing an out-of-date valuation, breached his fiduciary duties to the Crown. Ramsay-Hale decided that there is nothing about the land price that Robinson was offered that should have caused him to know or be on notice that its valuation was wrong or that the minister had breached his fiduciary duty and directed the use of an out of date valuation. She stated that the fact that Robinson discovered from a private valuation that the land was potentially worth more, after he accepted the Government’s offer, cannot make it unconscionable for him to retain the benefit. She said this was not enough to put him on notice that the minister or the chief valuation officer at the time were acting dishonestly. On the claim that he breached his fiduciary duty to the Crown given his senior position, the judge was not persuaded that Robinson owed the Crown any relevant fiduciary duty. She said he was not concerned with valuations or allocations of land

Under the tree

or the transfer of freehold titles under the Crown Land Policy. She said he dealt with planning and that the seniority of his position could not fix him with a greater fiduciary obligation than that which arose out of his contract of employment with the Crown. Ramsay-Hale said Robinson was not required to pursue his employer’s interests at the expense of his own and disclose that he had received a valuation that was greater than the stated open market value offered to him. The Crown’s alternative case of dishonest assistance against Robinson’s ex-wife was also thrown out. The Crown alleged that Bishop assisted her ex-husband in breaching his fiduciary duties by failing to make enquiries into circumstances in which such enquires ought to have been made. The allegation was that given her knowledge of Robinson’s breach of duty, her participation in the transactions relating to the land was dishonest. Ramsay-Hale determined that a failure to make inquiries is insufficient to find a claim of dishonest assistance. When the judgement was handed down last year, the then acting Attorney General, Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles had stated that the Crown was considering appealing. This was filed too late, however. (DI)

By Benneth Williams


8

NEWS

May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

$260 loan went to unpaid bills and Gov’t expenditure

THE $170 million bond, which forms part of $260 million UK guaranteed loan went towards paying hundreds of unpaid bills and other Government costs. Minister of Finance, Washington Misick – in answer to questions on how the money was spent - told members of the House of Assembly last week that the unpaid bills were funded by loans from the Department for International Development, Scotia Bank and FirstCaribbean Bank. He said that there were hundreds of bills paid over more than a 24 to 30 month period; although he could not say in detail what those debts were. “These Government loans include

outstanding amounts that are due to the European Union, the CDB...” He said the remaining funds, about $152 million, facilitated the remaining payment plans in recurrent items such as salaries, rents, subventions and other Government costs. He further explained that by the end of financial year 2009/2010 the Government had accumulated a deficit, which had increased to $94.1 million in unpaid debts. “In addition to the existing public cost of $7.4 million, there were no reserves to finance the debt between 2008 and 2010 and as such warranted a reform programme to stabilise finances as TCI had no reserves and no credible financial management

Belonger occupies new position of hospital’s medical chief BY DAISY HANDFIELD DENISE Braithwaite was appointed as the Chief of Medical Services at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre after outshining more than 23 other applicants last Thursday (May 1). A press briefing was held at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre on Tuesday (May 6) where chief executive officer for the hospital, Jill Magri said that the interview process for selection was very lengthy and comprehensive. “We got over 24 candidates from all over the world that had applied for the position and we felt as though Dr Braithwaite was the absolute best person for the role,” she explained. “Her level of commitment not only to the Turks and Caicos Islands, but also to the growth and development of this hospital are beyond reproach and we feel as though she is going to make an immense contribution to the future of healthcare within the Turks and Caicos Islands and certainly with the development of the services provided both here in Providenciales and also in Grant Turk.” Grateful for the appointment, Braithwaite who is a native of Grand Turk said that her plans for the hospital are to achieve great things, in every aspect of operation. “I am very proud of these facilities in the Turks and Caicos Islands; I think all people living here and visitors alike ought to feel proud about the services we have here.” The new chief of medical services said that she and her team looked to excel in their accreditation and develop themselves from a quality standpoint. She said she would continue to manage different processes, review them and see how to increase both

their efficiency and their revenue generating stream. “Equally from a 50 per cent profit perspective with Government, we really want to ramp up our ability to do medical tourism.” When asked about the running of the hospital since its inception in 2010, Braithwaite said that she thought they were improving on a daily basis. “We put in so many things when we started, but there is room for improvement for all these aspects.” Braithwaite concluded by urging the youth of the Turks and Caicos Islands to come back to the Islands and work after achieving their goals abroad. “We would like to increase the local capacity of Turks and Caicos Islanders working within the healthcare system, not only nurses and physicians, but we have administrative functions, we have medical engineers. “All of these are areas that I would like the educational system to continue to focus on and channel some of those young bright minds towards our way.” Denise Braithwaite holds a degree in biology with a minor in chemistry from the United States as well as a medical degree from the University of the West Indies in Trinidad. After these accomplishments she proceeded to Jamaica, where she spent roughly 10 years working at all of the major hospitals in Kingston; where she received her specialty in emergency medicine. In 2009 she came back home and worked with the Ministry of Health briefly in emergency medicine before she started working as Cockburn Town Medical Centre hospital administrator in April 10, 2010.

systems in place.” This led to the TCI Government seeking the assistance of the UK government, which provided the $260 million loan guarantee. “The $260 million loan is comprised of a $170 million bond, due in February 2016; $90 million revolving credit facility currently not drawn down on.” He pointed out that of the money, something close to $50 million were advances made to TCIG by the UK Government. “And I think the plan when these were issued, they were grants but in fact they were actually converted into loans because HMG was concerned that they would be setting a bad precedent.” In response to a question from the Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, the minister

said it is difficult to say which obligations were contracted prior to 2003. The party leader wanted to know if any of PDM debt was covered in the $260 million loan. Meanwhile, Opposition member and elected representative for Five Cays, Sean Astwood, wanted to know how the Government arrived at the conclusion that there is no opportunity to renegotiate or influence the $260 million loan before 2016. The minister explained that TCIG has met with various financial institutions to investigate the alternatives. “One such would be a meeting in New York with the RBC through whom the loan was originally negotiated. “We’ve also had meetings with

Vehicle caught on fire after being picked up from mechanic shop

the bankers association; we’ve had meetings on the British side to discuss how we may go about doing this.” He added that in every case it would be far more expensive to retire the loan/bond. “We would still have to pay the accumulated interests and then enter into an agreement and the chances are we would not get a loan at 3.5 per cent; particularly if the loan was meant to be without a British Government guarantee.” He said that when the matter was put to the Bank of Nova Scotia, they indicated that if everything else was equal, it was plausible that they would consider refinancing the loan at $100 million. However, Misick said that he does not think the country is there yet. (DI)

Front of the vehicle damaged after it blows up

Vehicle caught on fire after picked up from mechanic’s A SILVER Dodge truck caught on fire shortly after being collected from a mechanic’s shop on Tuesday (May 6). Providenciales Fire Station manager Aubrey Felix told the Weekly News on Wednesday (May

7) that the incident happened as the owner made his way home to Millennium Heights, Blue Hills, at about 5pm. Neighbours extinguished the blaze using fire extinguishers before officials from the fire

department arrived on the scene. Fortunately there were no injuries. The cause of the problem was not specified, but fire officials say that it is likely the problem was mechanical. (DH)


May 10 - 16, 2014

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

9

Clashes over Gov’t supported concessions for small businesses WHILE the Government says it is motivated to support and propel the growth of small and medium sized businesses in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) does not appear inclined to do so. Premier, Rufus Ewing told the House of Assembly last week Monday (April 28) that the CFO has denied many applications for concessions made by small business owners even after the entire Cabinet supported them. Ewing was at the time answering questions posed by elected member for Five Cays, Sean Astwood. Astwood wanted to know how many small and locally owned businesses have been able to get concessions of any kind from the Government, given that the current administration has repeatedly publicised its support for this type of enterprise. “We the Government supports the granting of concessions to small businesses as this would allow for the growth of these businesses that would provide even greater revenue to Government in the future and the empowerment of our people,” Ewing said. “The granting of concessions is clearly the responsibility of the CFO. Many applications for concessions were denied by the CFO even after being supported by Minister of Finance or the entire Cabinet.”

The Premier also told the member that while he could not say how many concessions were granted, he is certain that the number of concessions given out over the past few years is much less than what was provided in the past. However, he said there are several reasons for this. The provision of concessions in a particular financial year is revenue foregone and this reduces Government potential revenue for that year, therefore the better the financial position is for the Government, the greater the likelihood that concessions would be given. “That is why we are even more motivated to implement a micro, small and medium sized enterprise business policy that would clearly outline what concessions persons are entitled to and under what conditions/criteria, to ensure fairness and transparency and to ensure that there are future economic benefits to the country. “I too am very interested in the number of concessions given during our period of Government, but I am unable to present those figures at this time.” Meanwhile, prior to the question and answer session of the house, the Premier delivered a ministerial statement in which he outlined Government’s commitment to putting in place a SME policy. “For the longest while, over

Premier Rufus Ewing

Sean Astwood, elected member for Five Cays

successive Governments, the focus has been on incentivising multimillion dollar foreign investment in line with the encouragement of development ordinances and more recently we have focused on the development of an investment policy.” He added that while the policy decisions, related to incentives and concessions, may have been appropriate and necessary for development of the islands historically, they do come with

restrictions on future economic growth and revenue. Successive Governments have provided much in terms of incentives and concessions to local investors and businesspersons over the years, but this was done in an ad hoc manner and brought into question the fairness, goals and objectives of the unwritten concession policy for local SME, Ewing said. He added that the development of a micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) policy is well advanced.

When it comes into play, the policy will encourage the development and growth of new and existing MSMEs in a manner that is transparent and fair and will be a driver for the country’s economic growth, Ewing said. He added that the policy would be aligned with the current investment policy, which caters mainly to foreign direct investment and which is under revision to make the TCI more attractive and competitive as a place to invest. “My Government is also well advanced in the development of a manufacturing policy that will facilitate the diversification of our economy and make us more producer orientated and self-sufficient.” This policy initiative is being developed in collaboration with the manufacturing stakeholders, Ministry of Finance, Strategic Policy and Planning Department and the Premier’s Office. Ewing added that the policies will facilitate TC Islanders becoming entrepreneurs and will allow them to capitalise on the opportunities both in the reserve categories of business and on opportunities from larger foreign investment projects. (DI)

NIB lost $15.8m ... continued from 

4

of the debenture.” NO 5% FOR DEPOSITORS Kikivarakis said that if the liquidators had retained the money, creditors would have likely received an additional five per cent return. As a result he retained the right and obtained permission from the court to continue investigations into the loan. However in Kikivarakis’ fifth report dated December 31, 2012, and submitted in March last year he revealed that he had agreed to halt further investigations into the matter. He said he had consulted with his attorneys on the possible outcome of any litigation in the company’s favour resulting from challenging the validity of the debenture. He had also held discussions with his agents, reviewed the transcripts of interviews conducted by his agents, studied documents with regard to this matter, and considered a cost

benefit analysis of carrying out any further investigations. “As a result of the above steps I have determined that it is in the best interest of the creditors, financially, not to pursue this matter any further and accordingly I have decided to close this chapter and negotiate the amount of interest payable and costs recoverable under the debenture and negotiate a settlement with the NIB.” In his sixth report dated June 30, 2013, and submitted last September, Kikivarakis stated that he had settled the NIB claim against the company for interest and costs. The amount agreed was $1,122,695 of which NIB was paid $822,695. This amount represented settlement of the $1,122,695 minus $300,000 for the recovery of cost from NIB for time spent on collection of amounts due to NIB under the debenture. Further information on the liquidation can be found at www. tcibpliquidation.com. (RB)

The Dr Malcolm Building on Providenciales which houses the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal

President of Court of Appeal complains of non-working AC – Threatens to free appellants if not fixed A SWELTERING courtroom due to malfunctioning air conditioning units forced the president of the Court of Appeal, Edward Zacca QC to issue a stern warning to legislators. Over this past week, the Court of Appeal met in Providenciales in the Dr Malcolm building on Leeward Highway to hear cases. But the justices were constrained in the number of cases they could attend to due to the lack of proper conditions. Since Monday (May 5), the air conditioning units in the two of the three courtrooms have been out of

order and technicians were seen attempting to rectify the situation, to no avail. One court official said that the units are not maintained on a regular basis, and this causes the units to malfunction often. The three justices had to hear cases with the doors to inner offices and to the outside corridor open to let in cool air. In spite of this, there was little to no respite from the 80 to 90 degree temperature. At the close of session on Thursday, May 8, President Zacca

told a member from the offices of the Director of Public Prosecutions that he expects better conditions when the court sits again on September 1. He complained that this has happened before, and again this session’s cases have had to be put off as a result. Zacca pointed out that the next time the court meets and the same thing happens, they might have to send the applicants home free. He said the court cannot have persons who have applied for appeals in custody, session after session. (DI)


10

May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

Let’s become patriotic Dear Editor, Last year I asked: “Are Turks and Caicos Islanders patriotic?” This year I came up with ways that we can cultivate and show our patriotism on a daily basis. The ultimate goal is that patriotism becomes as much a part of us as the blood running through our veins. With National Heroes Day a few short weeks away, now is the time to begin showing our patriotism, or take it to the next level, not only for National Heroes Day, but for every day going forward. I have listed below a few simple ways we can show patriotism every day. 1) Learn and sing proudly our National Anthem - While some may argue that the National Anthem isn’t really ours, as a dependent territory it is. Singing the anthem, I believe, should be looked at as rehearsal to the day when we will have our own national anthem. So until then, we should sing it with reverence, gusto and pride that we would our own. 2) Learn and sing proudly our National Song - The National Song is a beautiful song that speaks to who

we are as a people. So we should make it a priority to learn it, teach it to our children and sing it with reverence, enthusiasm and pride every opportunity we get. 3) Display the Turks and Caicos Islands flag - Last year I asked that we display our flags in as many creative ways as we can and we did! The feedback was awesome. However, there are still many of us who didn’t participate. If you didn’t join those who did it last year let’s do it again this year. We can display it in or on our homes, businesses, on our vehicles, our clothing, via social media, jewelry art work and all the creative ways we can think of. 4) Work to keep our country clean - Lately it seems our regard of cleanliness is diminishing. We must each do our part to keep our surroundings, communities and country clean. The state of our country reflects how we are feeling about it. And the untidiness is not reflecting well. Remember clean is cool, cool is clean! 5) Learn about our rich history and cultural heritage - It is often said that we can’t know where we are

going if we don’t know where we came from. I would like to say that we can appreciate who we are if we take the time to learn of the experiences, struggles and triumphs of those who came before. 6) Teach it to future generations – Once this knowledge and appreciation is acquired; we must pass it on to our children, grandchildren and those in our realm of influence. We must help to cultivate within them this patriotic spirit. This is the only way patriotism will continue to be a pivotal part of who we are for generations to come. 7) Celebrate our Turks and Caicos heroes - Whether it is the celebration of our National Heroes or our personal TCI heroes, we should all be willing to give them the respect and honour they deserve. Not just on National Heroes Day, but every day. 8) Support the efforts of Turks and Caicos Islanders – Support for one another is vital. We must make an effort to support each other. Whether it is in business, social, educational or athletic arena, supporting gives a sense of community and feeling a part of a

All about Ma

community brings pride and a drive to succeed. 9) Give back – Giving of oneself to the service of their community and country is one of the greatest, yet simplest ways to show patriotism. With the plethora of service and religious organisations in our country, we can all find ways to give of our time, talents and resources. We should all strive to make our country a better place for future generations. 10) Pray for our leaders – 1 Timothy 2: 1-4 says: “I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. “Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Saviour, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth.” Wherever you may fall on the political spectrum, the decisions made by persons in power affect us all. If we want the best for our country, we must be in continuous prayer for our leaders and decision makers. It is my view that collective

national pride is something that grows over time, through the efforts regardless of how small of individuals. The ideas above may seem simple, but we must remember that every little step has an impact. You may be thinking: “I can’t make this change all alone.” But we must remember that the change we seek/want to see starts with us. A single matchstick can be easily broken; put several together, it is harder to do. By learning the National Song, you may encourage your friends and family to do the same. By displaying a flag, you will inspire others to follow suit. The list goes on and on. One person can create a domino effect that can produce results far greater than our expectations. One small stone can cause a large ripple in a big pond. In conclusion, I ask that you make today the day you commit to showing your patriotism every day, in every way you can. Thanks and regards, Sabrina C Palmer-Isaac Blue Mountain, Providenciales

COMMENTARY

MOTHERS’ Day is a time to reflect on the person who carried us before and after we emerged on this big round rock we call earth. Mothers are eternal because their legacy is one we as children carry forever. In fact we pass that legacy down to our children. My mother was special. She did not have an easy life but I feel she never resented any of it. Her early married life as a tenant farmer was something she always treasured. About the time the family discovered my younger brother was mentally challenged my dad

came down with MS beginning a 20 year downhill slide to his final rest early in his 47th year. Dad was a great and brave man and mother never tried to replace him. Because of our family’s financial challenges we lived in Grandma’s house. A house that she remodelled into an up and down double as the world war was looming. My mother’s aunt Pearl also resided with my grandparents upstairs. Those were the days when extended families lived together days that are fast returning. God provided Mom with light supplemental employment at the

SPACE IS LIMITED!

church after dad gave up going to work in his wheelchair and was then confined to his bed. We were donated an old crank type hospital bed which made taking care of dad somewhat easier. Mom was a wonderful cook and could create tasty wholesome meals from inexpensive ingredients. “Eat your vegetables,” she would say and because we did I now love garden produce. Brother Jim and Mom took the bus to a special school. After high school I went right to work. My employer offered to pay for evening college courses and this was the start of a good career.

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

Ma went to meet Dad in heaven on her 87th birthday just as we were moving to the TCI. Brother Jim joined Yvette and I, and soon he was an icon of Conch Bar. Now he is confined to his bed in a nursing home in Fort Lauderdale. The grandchildren remember mom as ‘Cookie Grandma’ because as Christmas neared she with her cousins’ help cooked up hundreds of cookies of every type imaginable. These were passed

along in quantity to the family and close friends. I savoured her home made fruitcake. Mom’s fruitcake was better than any you can purchase. Now when I pick up one of those commercial confections I remember Mom’s Christmas goodies. They say as long as someone mentions your name you are not yet gone. Mom will remain alive in our family for many years to come.

Please keep your letters to a maximum of 450 words or we may not be able publish it.


May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 11

TWI, Governor and Gov’t to settle million-dollar No animal clinic lawsuit in closed hearing in Five Cays continued

Dear Editor, We the residents of Five Cays are disappointed as to how this matter was taken completely out of perspective, including how persons jumped to conclusion without knowing the facts behind the matter. The people of these Islands, especially the community of Five Cays came from a very long way. However, I guess troublemaking was always a name that we have borne in the past and it appears to be the same today when we have to speak out on any issues. It seems, as if the moment we open our mouths and speak up, that we want to harm someone. Why is this? Firstly, the Community Centre was built to host community events (church services, meetings and any social events from around the Turks and Caicos Islands). Please note that it was not built to be an animal hospital, or a clinic. We will not stand by and allow persons who do not know about our culture to say that the minority are the ones standing in their way preventing them from carrying out their spay and neuter clinic. Such statements from people on Speak your Mind TCI are blunt lies, and prove that you do not have both the people and its community at heart. It seems as if this community and its facilities are only good to house animals and not humans which it was built to do. One speaker was quoted as saying: “What truly makes this event sadder is that there are people on this island who do want to learn how to take care of their dogs and make them better, happier and a part of their family.” My question is what about the people of the community? Each time we have a clean-up campaign we ask for help and NOBODY shows up to assist or made a donation. To add insult to injury we have visitors to our Islands being told NOT to venture into the Five Cays community because of a high crime

rate. May we remind you and the wider community that Five Cays has one of the lowest crime rates within the TCI, and that Grace Bay and the Long Bay areas have a much higher one. The people who these speakers refer to as the “vocal minority” are all Belongers. We were born here, including our parents, and their parents and their parents, parents as far back in the 1800s. We would not let you or anyone label us as terrorists or group of uncivilised people, when we are the complete opposite. Furthermore we were offended with your offer to provide both a refrigerator and a stove including putting lights on the basketball court. Please note that when the Community Centre was first opened that it was fully furnished. It was under the interim administration that the following items were relocated including the computers to various Government departments. Please note that if we take your refrigerator and stove, the next time you want to use it, you will be throwing it up in our face. Therefore take both your refrigerator and stove and go on the side of the road and cook for the dogs you see are starving. Our question to the Potcake Place, why are you not requesting to use the Edward C Gartland Youth Centre, who you have donated thousands of dollars in the past, and assisted in their various fundraising events? Today, in many parts of the TCI we have qualified people out of work, and their children going to bed without anything to eat. It is a disgrace when people care more about animals on four legs than their brothers and sisters on two. God Bless. Sincerely, The Residents of Five Cays

Helping TCI’s animals Dear Editor, The Provo chapter of the Turks and Caicos Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TCSPCA) would like to thank the following Government officials, local businesses and private individuals for their generosity and support which helped to make the April North Caicos 2014 Spay/Neuter Clinic such a big success. Dr Mark Butler Chief Veterinary Officer, Lou Handfield of Lew 1 Shipping, Potcake Foundation, Gilley’s Enterprises, Lovey Forbes,

Jody and Tom Rathjeb, Eve and Ernie Quandt, Ralph and Brenda Wilcke, Last Chance Restaurant Cheryl and Howard Gibbs, My Dee’s Restaurant, Poach Silver ala Car Rentals, Mark and LynnRae Mclean, Dr Paul Anderson DVM, Andrea Burgeson, Abrah Etzler, Judy Anderson, Imelda Burke, and TCSPCA volunteers Bob Blehr and Peter Halstead. Susan Blehr, Director of the TCSPCA, Providenciales

TRADE Wind Industries (TWI) – owners and operators of the Caicos Conch Farm – has consented to enter into arbitration (closed hearing) with the Governor and the Government of the TCI. A press statement from the company last week informed of its intention to enter into a private discussion to settle their $100 million lawsuit against the two parties. The company has withdrawn its challenge to the appointment of the arbitrator, Queen’s Counsel Kenneth Rokison and has agreed not to enforce the cost order against the defendants made on January 16. That order was made when the Supreme Court ruled in favour of TWI, rejecting the Crown’s application for a stay of the company’s challenge against the appointment of the arbitrator. The defendants will likewise not seek to enforce the cost orders made on August 30, 2013 and on January 20, 2014, against the company. The two arbitrators - Rokinson for the Crown and Lawrence Cohen QC for TWI – will now appoint a third arbitrator to form a fully constituted arbitral panel to determine the issues set out in the company’s original claim. In 2012, TWI filed a $100 million lawsuit against the TCI Governor, a post held by Ric Todd at the time, and the TCIG for breaches of the development agreement, breaches of leases and malicious falsehoods. Last year, the Supreme Court decided that the case should be heard in open court, but the Crown appealed the decision and the matter

Formor Governor Ric Todd

was sent to arbitration. However, following the appointment of the two arbitrators, TWI filed an injunction against the defendants alleging constitutional issues with Rokison’s appointment, and the Attorney General who made the appointment was named as a third defendant in the case. The company alleged that the AG did not have consent of the TCI Government to appoint Rokison, and this was later substantiated by a summons filed in the court by the Premier. In January, the Supreme Court sent that matter to trial to be determined. However, shortly before this judgement was handed down, the Premier in a letter to the AG agreed to Rokison’s appointment and gave the Government’s consent for the case to proceed to arbitration. As a result of this, a previous offer – made late last year – to the TCI Government was withdrawn. The company had proposed to terminate all legal costs and exposure to the TCIG if it would agree to

honour the terms and conditions of the existing development agreement and amendments that they signed with the TCIG, former Governor Gordon Wetherell and the Crown in 2010 and 2011. In its press statement last week, TWI said they agreed to the arbitration because of the Premier contradicting his sworn statement in his summons in which he said that the elected government had never instructed or consented to the Attorney General appointing an arbitrator. “And the Finance Minister, Washington Misick had also informed TWI that he was opposed to arbitration and would not fund the expense.” The company said it sought to shelter the elected government from any liabilities arising from the actions of the Crown by offering the elected government the opportunity to settle the claim at no cost. “But Ewing has incomprehensibly preferred that the elected government reject our offer and stay as a defendant with potential liability for three arbitrators’ fees, legal costs and a potential damages award approaching 100 million dollars.” The release further noted that the company is content to arbitrate the matter since the Government has now volunteered to shoulder the far greater costs of arbitration and risk liability for the substantial damages. It added: “Additionally, information in TWI’s possession provided by the Crown has decisively influenced TWI in favour of arbitration.” (DI)

Fire Hot Talent; new summer event for TCI community to enjoy RESIDENTS and visitors who are looking for somewhere to go on Friday nights will now be able to head down to Bugaloo’s for Fire Hot Talent night. This event will invite anyone with talent, any ages from any island to enter to win weekly, monthly and end of summer prizes. Magnetic Media has collaborated with Henry the Conch and other businesses to launch this event starting on Friday (May 16) at Bugaloo’s Conch Crawl in Five Cays. Organiser of the event, Deandrea Hamilton, said that in addition to giving a free venue to the variety of talent within the Islands, there will be prizes and a television showcase to highlight and reward the outstanding entertainers in an ‘Amateur Night at

the Apollo’ style evening. The event will be an incorporation of Fire Hot Fridays, which is a Magnetic Media and Henry the Conch collaboration that was launched in March 2014 at Bugaloo’s Conch Crawl. Hamilton said that the Fire Hot Fridays has been a tremendous success with its bonfires, fire dance shows, and children junkanoo rush, live bands including Island Boys and Lee Forbes and the Force featuring Henry the Conch. A Fire Hot menu was even developed which includes fresh seafood off the grill, official Fire Hot drink, the Flaming Bob Marley with the Bacardi twist and Fire Décor. The media personality said that the event was such a boom that resorts were booking tables for their

guests’ days in advance and locals also flocked to the site, turning Bugaloo’s into a weekend hot spot. Due to the slow season, they came up with an innovative way to keeps residents and visitors entertained. “Just as the Island Fish Fry gives residents an opportunity to mix and mingle in a safe, family environment, so does Fire Hot Fridays, which has punctuated Friday nights with a free native show in a prime beach side eatery.” Fire Hot Fridays is inviting people to register at Bugaloo’s Conch Crawl or by emailing info@ magneticmediatv.com. The event is spearheaded by Magnetic Media, Henry the Conch, Bugaloo’s Conch Crawl, The Wine Cellar, Point Grace and Digicel. (DH)


12 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Brielle Swann wins TCI Top Model 2014

May 10 - 16, 2014

Brielle Swann struts her stuff in the Pristine Swim competition

Brielle Swann takes this year’s TCI Top Model title SNAGGING the awards in all five of the event’s categories, Brielle Swann walked away as winner of The Dollhouse, cycle five of the TCI Top Model Contest and was the first victor to take it all on the night of the event. The 5’9” beauty captured the awards for Industry Readiness, Best Body, Model’s Portfolio, Best Runway Walk and Fashion Forward at the event at Williams Auditorium on May 2. In an event prior to the competition the 21-year-old also won the ‘Mainstream Media Darling Award’. Swann said: “I’m so excited right

now, this is a dream come true… modelling was something I always wanted to do.” The Grand Turk native who enjoys church fellowship activities, swimming, fashion modelling, music and the arts, along with hanging out with family and friends added that: “Winning the 2014 TCI Top Model Contest is indeed a boost to my confidence and to the morale of girls in Grand Turk who would like to compete but are to reserved to do so. “I hope that they would follow in my footsteps, sign up, participate, study and prepare themselves - as the sky is the limit!” “It’s been a very fun, very long

journey,” said Swann, who wants to go far - on the cover of Vogue, in campaigns and acting. Je’Cannya Garland took the first runner-up position and Social Media Darling award while Nathanelle Louis placed second runner-up and captured the RTC Viewers’ Choice award. The TCI Top Model Contest and Fashion Extravaganza saw a catwalk competition of seven beautiful young ladies in four fashion segments: Fleurs (Impact Appeal), Dangerous (Rock That Look), Pristine Swim (Best Body) and The Glamorzons from Cockburn Town (Fashion Forward).

The Dollhouse contestants Stephanie Sejour, J'Keyah Jolly, Je'Cannya Garland, Brielle Swan (winner), director of production Courtney Robinson, Lamia Brown, Wilange Charles and Nathanelle Louis

They all strutted down the catwalk in fashion forward, edgy, creative styles, eager to capture the judges’ nods. Swann, Je’Cannya Garland, J’Keyah Jolly and Sanadia Forbes caught the attention and interest of Marissa Surmenkow, director of scouting for New York Model Management, who was judging the competition. Other judges of the event were

Claire Parrish, advertising manager at Times of the Islands, chef Nikita Skipping, owner and founder of Crackpot Enterprises, celebrity chef JohnTsavalas, and head judge Ianthe Williams-Scott. Apart from the competitions, the audience were entertained by some thrilling performances. Director of production Courtney continued 

Courtney Robinson, along with Shara Bowen and Ryesha Higgs entertain the crowd with a fierce dance routine

15


May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

13


14 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 10 - 16, 2014

‘Ritchie’ Arthur to pay Crown $1.1 million within 28 days LOCAL pilot Richardson Arthur has agreed to pay the entire $1.1 million that he netted from land he sold to Stan Hartling of Shore Club development back in 2008. The Middle Caicos man struck a deal with the Crown this week and agreed to make the payment within 28 days. On Monday, May 5, the Court of Appeal heard an appeal brought by Arthur against the November 2013

judgement by the Supreme Court. In 2008, Arthur sold land he received at the undervalued price of $50,000 for $1.35 million to Hartling’s company. The valuation used in the sale of the land listed it as $200,000. Arthur has since repaid the Crown the remaining $150,000. Queen’s Counsel Ariel Misick submitted to the Appeal Court that the money his client has since paid

back to the Crown should have been the extent of the recovery. However, before the justices handed down a judgement, the Crown and the appellant came to an agreement for the payment of the entire $1.1 million. In an invited comment, Laurence Harris of Edward Wildman who are conducting the civil recovery in the TCI, noted: “The Attorney General and the Civil Recovery Team are

More than 400 bags of garbage along with 13 truckloads of loose material were collected

always pleased to be able to settle cases where we are able to make a substantial recovery.” He said the latest figures for civil recoveries are 3,060 acres of land recovered and just over $23m of cash paid, ordered to be paid or agreed to be paid. In November, the Supreme Court found in favour of the Crown, ordering Arthur to pay the money plus interest. Judge Margaret Ramsay-Hale found that the cases of knowing receipt, alleged breach of fiduciary duty by then Minister of Natural Resources, McAllister Hanchell and unconscionable receipt were made out in the Crown’s case. However, she found that the Crown did not prove its claim of deceit, which was an alternative claim. In the deceit claim, the judge decided that the facts as presented by the Crown were not sufficient for her to find that the Governor relied on Arthur’s representation that he intended to use the land for residential purposes when executing transfer. During the trial last year, Arthur maintained that he had bought the land to build a residential home. He testified that a representative of Hartling’s company repeatedly approached him to sell the land, but that he initially refused. His testimony was that if Hartling wanted him to sell, he had to pay him $1.35million.

Richardson Arthur

The former Minister of Natural Resources’ role in the entire transaction again became the focal point of the case when it was heard before the appeal court. Phillips argued again that the transaction involved a wrongdoing by Hanchell which resulted in Arthur receiving $1,350,000 for land which he had paid the Crown only $50,000. Hanchell’s breach is set out as his direction to grant the Conditional Purchase Lease (CPL) to Arthur based on an erroneous valuation. He approved rental and sale prices at an undervalue, he facilitated the sale to the defendant for the purpose of a commercial development, he authorised the outright sale of the land without registration of the crown charge and he granted the transfer of the land in spite of the defendant not having complied with the terms of the CPL. (DI)

Grand Turk residents promote clean TCI

TCI Shines cleans up Grand Turk MORE than 150 Grand Turk residents volunteered their time in a group effort to promote a healthy and sustainable environment recently. As part of the worldwide Earth Day celebrations, the Grand Turk community got to be a part of the TCHTA’s Grand Turk chapter 2014 annual Earth Day ‘TCI Shines’ clean-up campaign, in late April. The campaign usually held in Providenciales took place in the capital for the first time. The event which culminated several weeks of planning and education school visits by the

organisers, resulted in the collection of more than 400 bags of garbage along with 13 truckloads of loose material from targeted zones throughout the island. During a brief reception sponsored by the Grand Turk Cruise Centre, Grand Turk Chambers of Commerce, Digicel and TCHTA, president of the Grand Turk chapter, Seamus Day said that the clean-up campaign is the first of many ‘Grand Turk Proud’ community wide events intended to restore pride in the island environment and designed to secure their critical tourism based economy.

Day said that the attendance at the event along with the support and general interest showed them that hotels, businesses and the community are enthusiastic and willing to join in activities to improve and protect their environment for today and for the future. They will be hosting similar environmental awareness initiatives every three months and would like to encourage greater support from the public. The Grand Turk chapter also expressed special thanks to those who participated and supported the clean-up campaign.

New Justice of the TCI Court of Appeal, Ian Forte (photo credit: Jamaica Gleaner newspaper)

Justice Ian Forte joins TCI Court of Appeal VETERAN Jamaican judge, Ian Xavier Forte OJ, CD, QC, now sits on the Court of Appeal of the Turks and Caicos Islands; replacing Justice Richard Ground who passed away this February. Forte has been lauded as an imminent jurist, known for his professionalism, judicial independence, impartiality, integrity and unfailing courtesy.

He previously sat on courts in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. He joined the Cayman Islands Court of Appeal in July 2004, and retired in 2011. Forte previously served as President of the Jamaica Court of Appeals for five years and as a Judge of Appeal in Jamaica from 1988 to 1999.


May 10 - 16, 2014

NEWS 15

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Fishing tournament to raise cash for school computers BY DAISY HANDFIELD ORGANISERS of the second annual Grand Turk Fisherman’s Tournament hope to generate as much funds as possible to support HJ Robinson High School’s computer unit. The committee plans to provide the high school with between 20 to 25 new computers and associated software, through potential funds generated from auctions and raffles during the event. Committee member, Seamus Day, told the Weekly News in an interview on Wednesday (May 7) that although the event was only in its second year,

the tournament has doubled in size and they hoped to expand it further in future years. Through this, they would support a new local worthy cause each year, he said. The tournament will take place between June 20 and June 22. A Calcutta auction will be held at the Salt Raker Inn, Grand Turk on the evening of June 20 from 7pm and the actual fishing tournament will be headquartered on the Governor’s Beach on June 21 and June 22. Day said that boats can start fishing at first light and come in at 3pm each day to weigh their catch.

Former TCI Governor, Ric Todd along with 2013 prize winners Daniel Oslette and Lavardo Talbot

“We are hoping for 20 plus boats this year and hope to get as many boats as possible from Provo and other islands involved. “We have received much support from the Provo business community

Provo resident writes poetry eBook A POETICALLY inclined Providenciales resident wrote a 153 page poetry book as a venture to share his poetry vision with others, on a larger scale. Hezron Henry told the Weekly News on Thursday (May 8) that the book entitled ‘Life and Love and Death’ has been published for about a year now and that he was delighted with his accomplishment. “It feels good to have persons be able to read or in some cases hear some of the poetry included at Towers of Babel poetry showcases and have it be appreciated for what it is or what the audience or readers perceive it to be. “After all, art is only a reflection of a society.” He said that the idea itself is just a form of having numerous avenues to display art and to present it.

Head behind poetry group Towers of Babel said that those who read the book will notice in the forward that it asks to relate it to themselves like a mirror, representing them as an individual because they will pull or relate what appeals to them as a person. “It’s more of having to share those ideas or knowing that someone else feels it.” Henry said that the book is an eBook written to mimic birth, life and death; all presented in three acts of which the first appeals to people to strive for independent thinking. The second revolves around relationships and the third focuses on the legacy people leave behind as individuals, their morality and how they relate to the idea of knowing that someday everyone has to die.

The poet said that he cannot exactly say how long it took him to write the different pieces in the book, but as it relates to editing, compiling and assuring that it meets book publishing standards, it took about a year. Copies can be purchased digitally at twoersofbabel.weebly. com and lulu.com. Buyers can either purchase the three acts separately ‘The Interlude’, ‘Rib Caged in/paper clouds’ and ‘Conversations with my Soul’ or as the compiled version which has content not available in the eBooks, if purchased separately. Henry is working towards his second book and urging anyone who is interested in looking into some of the poetry in the book to attend any of the Towers of Babel showcases. (DH)

Brielle Swann takes this ... continued from 

12

Robinson led a fierce dance routine with Shara Bowen and Ryesha Higgs. There were also performances by Little Miss Enid Capron Primary School, Robyn Hinds, Penrhyn Brooks, Ryesha Higgs, Khambreal Garland, Shara Bowen, Rock It Hot Dance Faculty and Jemina Louis. Special appearances were made by TCI Top Model 2013 Samentha Etienne, TCI Top Model 2012 Washanda Registre, Miss Body Beautiful 2013 Mauqueita Carter, and Miss Turks and Caicos Universe 2013 Snwazna Adams. There were also multi-media and video presentations that documented the 2014 TCI Top Model Contest’s history, training, event partners, organising committee and those that made it a success.

Robinson said: “I am truly honoured to head a team that is passionate about giving those in the Turks and Caicos Islands an opportunity to shine, a platform to debut, and the tools to grow as individuals. “The annual TCI Top Model Contest and Fashion Extravaganza is our way of giving back to our community and our hope is that everyone moving forward can dream big, follow it to the fullest, and help establish a creative industry in these beautiful by nature Islands.” He also said that he thought the ladies performed exceptionally well and was also happy that the audience enjoyed what was put forward. As the winner of the 2014 TCI Top Model Contest, Brielle Swann was named the ‘face’ of the Turks and Caicos and will be managed exclusively by Royele Models for

one year. She will be featured on the cover and in an editorial spread in the 2014 summer Times of the Islands magazine, have a profile page in Destination: Turks and Caicos Islands 2015 edition, editorial in the 2015 Discover Turks and Caicos Magazine and featured on Island Life and Times online magazine courtesy of Tropical Imaging Ltd. She also receives photo-shoots, a round trip ticket to New York city, spa treatments, gift certificates, a luxury gift basket from La Parfumerie and more. Fashion lovers and fans of the TCI Top Model Contest and Extravaganza can look forward to a ‘Vogue’ theme slated for May 1, 2015, which Robinson promises to be more theatrical and dramatic. (KH)

and our tournament is fast becoming a national event.” He said that they even attracted an international sponsor in the form of global marine electronics giant, Raymarine. The auction will give all the visitors and participants the chance to bid on their favoured boats and possibly win big. There are also over 50 raffle prizes and a silent auction with some very impressive prizes on offer; from grocery vouchers, to marine electronics and weekend stays at some of the TCI's finest high end resorts. The tournament was organised by a group of keen Grand Turk fisherman and local businessmen.

It was set up as a vehicle to raise funds for local worthy causes while having some fun fishing in the beautiful TCI waters and promoting Grand Turk, all at the same time. In 2013, their inaugural year, they raised enough funds to build a much needed shade gazebo and adjacent landscaped garden for the patients at the geriatric and specials needs unit on Grand Turk. The entry fee for the tournament is $100 for both days. This includes a free case of beer, water and captains gift bags from sponsors for each boat. Participants have the chance to win approximately $10,000 in fishing and other great prizes offers.

The Towers of Babel “An ancient city in the land of Shinar in which the building of a tower intended to reach heaven was begun and the confusion of the language of the people took place.” Gen 11:4–9. The Towers of Babel is a collective of voices consisting of various artists prepared to display their exceptional art forms and foster the inner artist in other individuals; providing a venue for the outpouring of their undeniably unique gifts. This group brings to the stage and page productions rarely displayed on stages in the Turks and Caicos Islands melding with some of the most unique artists the country has to offer. For more information email towersofbabel101@gmail.com or visit www.towersofbabel.weebly.com

Searching By Nessa H

It’s hard to do if it’s not you Learn you before you begin searching Because you will never know what you’re searching for If you don’t know who you really are I pray for this generation of ladies Because we will not be like our mothers or our mother’s mothers We will be creating a new path for our future daughters So why not make it something worth working for? Doesn’t it pay off? I know I was taught that hard work yields success When success is present we have done our best. So put the search on pause and change your storyline Make it what you really had in mind.


Lifestyle... 16

May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GARDENING 

Growing a lime tree

LIME fruit has enjoyed a boost in popularity in the past few decades. This has prompted many home gardeners to plant a lime tree of their own in their garden. Growing lime trees can be rewarding and fun. Many people choose to purchase a lime tree from a local nursery rather than grow them from seed (though they are very easy to grow from seed). Once you have purchased your

lime tree, you will need to plant it. The steps for how to plant a lime tree are pretty much the same whether you plan on planting it in the ground or in a container. First, make sure that where your lime tree will be planted will receive plenty of sunshine. Second, make sure the drainage is excellent. If you pay attention to no other lime tree tips, you must pay attention to this one. Growing

Veggie korma Katherine Withers Green, 27, is a mum of one 14-monthold avid pasta lover. She knows from experience that finding meals that are nutritious, quick and easy to make, and that can be frozen for a later date is tough. These recipes are aimed at mothers looking to make the transition from baby food to ‘real’ food.

INGREDIENTS • 1 tbsp oil • 1 ½ inch piece of ginger finely chopped • 1 clove garlic finely chopped • 1/2 small onion finely chopped • 1/2 tsp ground cumin and coriander • 1 small potato, peeled and chopped • 1 carrot peeled and chopped • 1 tsp tomato paste • 1/2 cup low sodium veg stock • 2 tbsp frozen peas • 6-8 broccoli florets • 1/2 cup cream • 1 cup rice METHOD • Heat oil in a nonstick pan. • Put the ginger, garlic and onion into a food processor and blend (you may need to add a tablespoon of water). • Cook mixture in low heat for five

Growing lime trees can be rewarding and fun

If a pocket of air is created, the tree will die. Tamp the soil continually or water the soil every few inches while you backfill. Care of lime trees is pretty straight forward. Here are two tips: • Water consistently – Lime trees will drop their leaves if left dry for too long. This being said, too much watering will kill them as

YOUR DIET 

Weekly Recipe

Korma is a mild creamy curry dish that introduces babies to the flavour of mild spices and can be shared by the whole family.

lime trees in soil that does not have excellent drainage will kill your lime tree. Make sure that your lime tree will never be exposed to standing water. If planting in the ground, make sure the soil around the tree is a little higher than the ground outside the planting hole to prevent pooling of water around the lime tree. Third, when backfilling the hole or container, make sure that the soil is firmly in place around the root ball.

minutes.

• Add spices, cook for two to three minutes more. • Add potato, carrot, tomato paste and veg stock - reduce heat, cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until vegetables are soft. • Stir in the peas and broccoli and cool for five minutes. • Stir in the cream and cook for three to four minutes. • Serve with boiled rice. This meal makes four child portions and is great for adults too! It can be frozen for up to a month but only on its own. Do not freeze and defrost rice, always make fresh rice.

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

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

well. Best care of lime trees mean that you water consistently but not obsessively. • Fertilise frequently – Lime trees are heavy feeders. They will quickly deplete the soil around them, in the ground or in a container. Be sure to fertilise every few months with compost or a nitrogen rich fertiliser.

ASK TAMIKA

BY TAMIKA HANDFIELD

Man in the mirror RECENTLY my son and I were driving along listening to his all-time favourite artist, the legendary Mr Michael Jackson, when my all-time favourite song ‘Man in the Mirror’ started playing. While this song asks you to reflect on the role one plays in social and political areas, I would like to ask you to look at the man in the mirror for a different reason. Look at that man in the mirror. What do you see? Do you like what you see looking back at you? Do you fully appreciate the image you see? Loving our bodies can be a challenge sometimes, but especially as summer nears. The thought of showing off our bodies in a swimsuit can be very intimidating and for some, downright frightening. This does not have to be the case, though; you can learn to love and appreciate who you were created to be. How? You ask. Start by ensuring you are being good to your body BE GOOD TO YOUR BODY Since we are what we eat, ensure that you are feeding whole, healthy foods to your body because these foods support optimal health.

The foods that we eat support cell growth and replenishment. For example protein helps with growing strong nails and shiny hair as well as maintaining the cells of our skin. However, many protein foods come from animals which can be very high in saturated fat and cholesterol. So, it is very important that we make lean protein choices

like fish and poultry without the skin. There are vegetarian sources of protein, like beans, that provide all of the same benefits as the animal source except for the fats and cholesterol. The beauty vitamins, vitamins A, C and E, are powerful antioxidants and protect the body’s cells from oxidative damage that may accelerate the aging process among other things. A deficiency in vitamins A and C will cause the skin to look dry and rough so it’s advisable to eat foods rich in these vitamins. These foods include the orange/ red coloured fruits and vegetables like sweet potato and carrots and citrus fruits respectively. Foods high in vitamin E also help to keep the skin looking its best; these foods include sunflower seeds, almonds and olives. Choose wholesome foods, never compare yourself to anyone and start to appreciate the man in the mirror.

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


May 10 - 16, 2014

Lifestyle... FASHION AND BEAUTY 

17

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

fitness Tip  By Easher Parker

I am a Turks and Caicos native with a natural talent for writing and a love for all things beauty and style. You can find out more from at itseasher.com or if you have any questions, suggestions or would like to get in touch, email me at easherparker@gmail.com or follow me on Twitter or Instagram @itseasher to get fab instant updates wherever I go!

Refrigerating polish:

Yea or nay?

IN THIS economy, it is no surprise that many of us find clever methods to prolong the shelf life of our beauty products. During a conversation with a friend of mine, a nail lacquer queen, she mentioned how she preserves her polish by placing it in the refrigerator. Yes, the fridgedaire. Do you do this? The idea of storing a beauty product in a fridge to extend its life would sound like great idea initially but I’m going to be the one to go against the grain and tell you to be very careful with that. For this one, we’re just going use good judgement. It’s no secret that nail polish lets off some pretty strong, flammable fumes. Just think back to every time you’d walk into a nail salon, that stuff is powerful isn’t it? Some lacquers pack more of a punch than others, coming with their own caution labels. Why would you want to put those same flammable products where a motor is running and a bulb switching on and off? That doesn’t sound like a good combination. In addition, we all know the basic chemistry of liquid or liquid based solutions when they’re introduced to cold temperatures. They thicken or turn completely solid. Beauty products are no exception to this reaction, especially nail polish which will eventually thicken. Most nail colours come with a year-long shelf life anyway, whether you freeze it or not. Plus who wants to clean up polish if it breaks in the fridge I have had nail colour last me for years, without the aid of my refrigerator. Storing them away from sunlight in a cool place has worked for me. I simply place them in a small box underneath my stand. Low and away from infant eyes to avoid accidents in that department. If thickening is a real problem with your colours, give a polish thinner a try. This will help to return your nail lacquers to their original state. Do not use nail polish remover! That is not designed to thin out polish but break it down. In my view, the minimal effects that result in storing nail lacquer in a fridge are not beneficial enough to go through the trouble or the risk. Especially if you have a troublesome freezer. So have you decided? Thumbs up or thumbs down to polish in your fridge?

Dr. Joe LeMoine, is an Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine physician. He has worked with many international athletes and at many sporting events on the world stage. He currently practices in Providenciales, at Prime Sports Medicine.

By Dr. Joe LeMoine

Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine physician

Dangerous workout fads NOT all workouts are good for you. With more trainers and gyms, everyone is trying to come up with new ways to exercise and push the envelope into extreme levels. Some of these trends can lead to injury or ill health. Many of these exercises might be appropriate for the highly trained elite athlete trying to develop a specific strength or skill for high performance, but too many amateurs are mimicking the professionals with dangerous results. Here are a few of concern. Seeing an athlete trying to stand on an exercise ball and do weight resistance exercises is an obvious invitation to injury. For an exercise to be beneficial it requires to stress the muscles with enough resistance, adding extreme balancing at the same time risks a multitude of injuries to the limbs and back. Jumping is a great exercise to increase strength. It must be done properly so before jumping on and off an elevated box try doing broad jumps and landing with the knees flexed to absorb the shock. Straight knee and rigid ankles risk joint injury. Although these exercises

are great for the already trained athlete, it is not the place to start to lose weight. This exercise should be started with low heights and we wouldn’t expect a beginner to carry weights in their hands or on a belt when starting, as it would be too much impact. The same goes for someone overweight. Reserve this for after you have lost some pounds and gained strength. Many of the new fitness trends stress exercise to exhaustion. It is well known as fatigue sets in there is a loss of form, posture and control; all leading to potential injury. Many of the extreme exercises such as power cleans are fraught with risk and often performed without proper instruction and supervision.

The extreme programmes that are also a fad push exercise to the limit, and people are working out beyond normal levels with serious problems. Beyond the risk of cardiac events another serious complication has been seen in CrossFit programmes, rhabdomyolysis. This is where excess muscle cells are broken down and the resulting protein in the circulation can cause permanent damage to the kidneys. It is usually caused by severe crush injury, electrocution, seizures, high fevers and other extreme conditions. CrossFit has put out some literature warning people to go slow, they have trivialised the condition by shortening the name to ‘rhabdo’ and their literature has a cartoon of a clown exhausted, bleeding and on a dialysis machine. General rules to avoid exercise that can cause injury. Do not perform an exercise if you are not sure of the technique, if it feels unnatural or if it goes beyond your normal comfortable range of motion. Listen to your body and do not do something that is painful and respect the normal limits of fatigue. Remember an exercise is only good if you survive it without injury to exercise another day.

POLICE SAFETY TIPS

Is your child taking explicit pictures? TOO many teens believe that there is no risk to them when they send nude photos of themselves. The sexual images, once taken and sent digitally, give the receivers the ability to do anything they please with it. Pictures that get published on the internet can remain on it forever, and thus haunt the individual for a very long time. It is also against the law. Distributing nude pictures to others through cell phones or the internet can attract charges of child pornography and other crimes. Teenagers today are growing up in a culture where pornography has entered the mainstream and where sexual imagery, exemplified by infamous photos of the famous, like Britney Spears exposing herself, have become standard fare. They seem to think there is nothing wrong with it. On the contrary, some even think they can be popular and become a star. It is more likely they will gain a fleeting moment of notoriety. But for

By Audley Astwood

Police Public Relations Officer

many teens, the most important thing is to get a few minutes of fame and they will go to any lengths just so they get it. The mainstreaming of pornography is illustrated by the huge popularity of thong underwear. Thong underwear was once limited to the world of strippers and porn flicks, but now it is sold in major apparel stores all over the world. Teenagers are carried along by a larger phenomenon happening to America. They see the sexually oriented ads and sexual images on the web, but unfortunately they are not aware of the legal consequences of participating in it. Even if the violator is susceptible to jail time and fines due to breaking the law, as it pertains to sharing said nude photos, once these photos are released to others or the general public, you can never take that back.

It is imperative to be selective about behaviour directly related to the distribution of any photos or videos of you, and equally important to be selective about whom you send said photos to. All parents and guardians are urged to have frank and open conversations with their children in relation to the legal and social ramifications this behaviour poses. The fame gained from circulating their sexual images is so short-lived; the devastation to their lives is likely to last longer. Devices used to commit these offences may be subject to seizure by police and subsequent destruction on court order. If you are ever a victim of some sort of harassment surrounding nude photos or videos and someone is threatening to unlawfully distribute them without your permission, contact the police, file a police report and seek a restraining order. For more information on proactive policing, please visit us at www.facebook.com/RTCIPF.


18

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Solar car-charging station opens in Grand Cayman IT MAY be the Caribbean’s most abundant resource, but in a region where energy costs are oppressive, solar energy isn’t used nearly enough. That’s starting to change, though, and it got a significant boost last week with the opening of the Caribbean’s first-ever solar-powered car charging station. The station is viewed to be one of the first standalone, public solar carcharging stations in the Caribbean, a place for electric-powered cars to come and top off their energy supplies. “We started about a year ago and now it’s finally up and operational,” said John Felder, CEO of Cayman Automotive, which partnered with Philadelphia-based U-Go Stations on the project. “I don’t know of any solar panel charge stations for electric cars.” While the stations won’t be used for complete charges, an hour spent charging at the station will provide about 20 percent of an electric car’s power supply. Felder, who is the leading distributor of electric cars in the Caribbean, said the region’s electric car movement was already expanding. “I’m now in the Bahamas, in Jamaica, in Bermuda,” he said. “The

The Caribbean’s first-ever solar-powered car charging station in Grand Cayman is the first of many expected across the region.

Aruban government called me last week and they want me to move to start doing electric cars there.” Indeed, Aruba has been at the forefront of the regional green energy movement, with plans to have 100 percent renewable energy by the year 2020. Barbados opened its first solar car-charging station in 2013 at the Wildey Business Park. The new Cayman station, which is located at Governors Square, is one of six electric charging stations

on the island. “I can see in the next 10 years that 30 to 40 percent of the cars on the roads will be electric vehicles,” Felder said. Something that could help that measure regional is the lowering of import duties on 100 percent electric cars, Felder said. Cayman’s government lowered its duty from 42 percent to 10 percent, which is now the third-lowest in the region, although many islands lag behind in that regard.

The Bahamas: Christie satisfied with first two years in government TWO YEARS after coming to office Prime Minster Perry Christie said this week he was “satisfied” with the government’s achievements and his ministers performances to date. While declining to give his government a grade for their accomplishments so far, Mr Christie said he is “happy” with his cabinet and the progress the government has made – despite some challenges. Two of those challenges are not setting firm dates for the implementation of Value Added Tax (VAT) and the constitutional referendum. “Firstly, we are elected for five years and so, in the context of grades, I am giving a performance in the context of what I know we have achieved and invariably people are not aware to the extent of which I can now speak. I am happy with my ministers; we have had our challenges. “For example, today I was speaking with the minister about the question of mortgage relief and I was speaking with the Minster of State for Finance and I do not see that as a failing or a failure. We see that as

Prime Minister Perry Christie says he is “happy” with his cabinet and the progress the government has made – despite some challenges.

we have to recalibrate our approach because we still remain convinced that we have to make an intervention on behalf of homeowners,” he said. “We have issues like that. Having said that I am satisfied that where we are today: people will begin to see the results and quickly and it is not easy. But in terms of all areas, there

is dynamic movement in terms of new policies and new initiatives. So I am happy with my group. No, I am not going to give A, B, C, D or G but I am happy because I believe we are here to serve the Bahamian people and we are serving them as best we can up to this point.” Despite, the Prime Minister’s praise of his administration, the government still has not confirmed a date for the Implementation of VAT, which has been postponed from July 1, or the constitutional referendum, which has been delayed three times. Mr. Christie did confirm that VAT will still be introduced, but at a lower rate than the 15 per cent first announced. He said: “We have been discussing VAT for sometime; the minster indicated that as of July 1st they want it to be introduced. The Coalition for Reformed Taxation said they wish to present to the government an alternative in the form of payroll tax so we gave them the time to do that. We believe that they are about to submit their report.

May 10 - 16, 2014

Haiti confirms 14 cases of mosquito-borne virus A MOSQUITO-BORNE virus that has spread rapidly through the Caribbean since it was documented in the region for the first time in December has been confirmed in Haiti, a government official said Tuesday. Authorities have confirmed 14 cases of the chikungunya virus in Haiti, Health Minister Florence Guillaume Duperval said. Duperval said in an interview with Radio Metropole that the government would soon begin airing public health advisories on the radio to alert people to the symptoms, which can include a sharp fever, headache and joint pain. The arrival of the virus in Haiti was expected. In the neighbouring Dominican Republic, authorities have confirmed at least 150-200

cases since it was detected there in March. The often painful illness most commonly found in Asia and Africa was first detected in December in tiny St. Martin. It was the first time that local transmission of chikungunya had been reported in the Americas. Since then, it has spread to nearly a dozen other islands and French Guiana, an overseas department of France on the northern shoulder of South America. The illness is rarely fatal and most chikungunya patients recover within a week. Some people experience joint pain for months to years. There is no vaccine and it is spread by the pervasive Aedes aegypti mosquito, which also transmits dengue fever in the region. (ABC News/AP)

Jamaica bank withdrawal tax proposal discarded THE much opposed bank withdrawal tax in Jamaica is to be withdrawn and two new revenue measures are to be imposed. Finance Minister Dr Peter Phillips made the disclosure as he closed the 2014-2015 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives this week. He said the Government has listened and has taken on board some constructive comments. “We take pride in knowing we are an administration that listens,” the minister said. The revised tax measures will see a withholding tax of 15 per cent on all insurance premiums paid by

Jamaican residents to non-residents. The Government will also modify the GCT Act to improve the rules relating to imported services. The measures will yield J$2.3 billion. The special consumption tax on hybrid vehicles will also be removed. Phillips said the unification of the rates for alcoholic beverages has been deferred for one month. Phillips said bankers and investors must recognise “that one sector cannot succeed on its own” and cautioned the parliamentary opposition that “now is not the time for idle threats”.

Florida approves in-state tuition for undocumented Caribbean students THE Florida Senate has voted to allow undocumented Caribbean and other immigrants to pay instate tuition rates at public colleges and universities, bringing to an end a fight that spanned more than a decade. “The eyes of America are on us,” said Republican Senator Jack Latvala, co-sponsor of the bill, after the 26-13 vote. “I think we’re setting an example. I think we’re doing the right thing.” However the bill must return to the house for final passage, due to slight changes. But both House Speaker Will Weatherford and Florida Governor Rick Scott said the new language wouldn’t hurt the controversial bill’s chances of

becoming law. “I look forward to signing this bill,” Scott said. “This is a historic day. Just think children that grew up in our state will now get the same tuition as their peers.” The measure would make Florida the 21st state in the United States to offer in-state tuition rates to undocumented students, but only young adults who attended a Florida high school for at least three years would qualify. The Senate estimates about 1,300 students would be eligible annually, according to the Herald, noting that undocumented Caribbean and other students currently pay the out-ofstate rate, which is three to four times the rate offered to Florida residents. (CMC)


May 10 - 16, 2014

Regional News

Guyana: Indigenous chief accused of raping young daughter AN AMERINDIAN Village Chief from Region One (Barima/Waini) in Guyana, was Wednesday arraigned on two counts of allegedly raping his 10 year old daughter who is four months pregnant for him. The Sexual Offences Act prevents the disclosure of the identities of either the perpetrator or the victim. He was not required to plea to the two indictable charges of rape. Demerara Waves Online

News was told that the man was remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate, Priya SewnarineBeharry until May 19 when he would appear in the Mabaruma Court. Investigators from the Ministry of Human Services and the Guyana Police Force became involved in the matter after the girl was tested as being pregnant when she was taken to the Mabaruma Hospital. (Demerara Waves)

Bajan economy still in the doldrums – central bank head

THE BARBADOS economy is still in the doldrums, producing no growth again, even in the first quarter when the highlight was the key winter tourist season. But after five years of negative economic news culminating with the firing of 3 500 public workers, Governor of the Central Bank Dr DeLisle Worrell’s advice is to hold on – growth will be coming next year. The island’s chief economist reported: “The economy is not expected to grow significantly this year, but a gradual, sustainable recovery, driven by the foreign exchange sectors, is expected in 2015 and 2016. “Forecast growth rates are less than 0.5 per cent this year, two per cent next year and 2.5 per cent in 2016. “A major growth factor is expected to be investment in tourism and infrastructure and other financial

inflows totalling Bds$4.5 billion over the next three years.” In his widely anticipated quarterly report, Worrell said the first quarter of 2014 amounted to another three months of negative economic activity. The economy contracted by 0.4 per cent, the bank said, though he explained that the performance was better than the same quarter last year when the economy contracted by 1.2 per cent. Average unemployment for 2013 was 11.7 per cent compared with 11.6 in 2012. Worrell said inflation fell to 1.7 per cent for the 12 months ending in February, well below the 6.3 per cent averaged in the corresponding periods since 2008. The vital foreign reserves remained almost unchanged, ending at Bds$1.1 billion at the end of April, representing 16 weeks of import cover.

Drought conditions force Trinidad and Tobago to implement water rationing TRINIDAD and Tobago has joined other Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries that have instituted water rationing as they deal with the impact of a prolonged dry season. The Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) said it is introducing a temporary water supply schedule for parts of the twin island republic as a result of “below normal” rainfall conditions in April. WASA said a similar pattern is forecast for this month. It said the temporary schedules go into effect in Trinidad as of Wednesday May 7, while Tobago has been under such a schedule since April 13. The statement from WASA quotes the Director,

19

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Meteorological Services of Trinidad and Tobago, Marlon Noel, who explained that the below normal rainfall observed is in relation to long-term averages over a 30-year period. Noel said that Tobago is experiencing what is termed a ‘dry spell’ which began in March and has extended into May. A “dry spell” represents consecutive periods of below average rainfall, which is deemed unusual; or a deviation from the normal rainfall pattern, recorded for that particular time. As a result of the overall rainfall condition, production at several of WASA’s surface water treatment facilities, has been negatively affected.

The Bahamas: PLP dubbed ‘abysmal failure’ by Minnis “ABYSMAL FAILURE” is how Free National Movement leader Dr Hubert Mininis described the current government’s performance in the past two years since being elected to office. The opposition leader made this and other remarks on Tuesday night to scores of party supporters outside their Mackey Street headquarters, in what was dubbed the beginning of the party’s “assault on this talking, do-nothing, promising, all-for- PLP Government.” “We know what this PLP Government has not done. We know what they can’t do: many simple things to make life easier for countless Bahamians,” he added. The MP for Killarney went on to chastise the government’s failure on crime, the economy, opening the new critical care block at the Princess Margaret Hospital, opening the newly built international airport in Abaco, opening the Children and Adolescents Facility at Sandilands, bringing a constitutional referendum to the people concerning equal rights for women under the constitution, among other things. Dr. Minnis said the Progessive Liberal Party government has failed the people on every front and despite their claims that they would put

Dr. Minnis said the Progessive Liberal Party government has failed the people on every front and despite their claims that they would put Bahamians first if elected, “they have done the opposite.

Bahamians first if elected, “they have done the opposite. The FNM party leader’s remarks were preceded by his chairman’s request that Bahamians should “roll” the government out of office and the deputy leader’s promise that the FNM will free the country from the PLP’s misrule “yet again.” Darron Cash took to the podium and said that Bahamians, like himself and the party, “have made a determination to roll them at this two-year mark. It’s time to roll them out.” “Someone said to me today,”

he told the crowd, “ it’s cheaper right now to give all of the cabinet ministers a package. Cheaper to fire them than keep them around for another three years.” “Nobody knows what is going on in this Christie government. The Christie government is a government that is failing and one in need of adult supervision. In fact it’s gotten so bad on cabinet that the prime minister decided that because no one is listening to him, he’d spend the rest of his time flying around the globe making speeches outside of the country.”

T&T attorney murder sends shockwaves across region THE MURDER of prominent Trinidadian attorney Dana Seetahal has sent shockwaves across the region. In Guyana, President, Donald Ramotar was alarmed at the news of the execution-style killing of the attorney. Seetahal was well known in Guyana’s legal fraternity and also sat on the Linden Commission of Inquiry in Guyana. In 2012, the Government of Guyana retained the services of Seetahal to the Commission to investigate the circumstances leading up to and surrounding the unrest in the mining town of Linden, the shooting deaths of three protesters and the damage to state and private properties. Jamaican attorney and former Minister of National Security and Justice, K.D. Knight, expressed shock at Seetahal’s death. Knight, who also sat on the Linden Commission of Inquiry in Guyana, said he knew her for more than 20 years. “I really am distraught, I knew Dana Seetahal very well, from I

Dana Seetahal was well liked both inside and outside of T&T.

was Minister of National Security and Justice, we arranged training for judiciary and others in the justice system. We served together in Guyana and we were in contact from time to time. Really it has hit hard. Another organisation has also reacted to news of the attorney’s death: the Trinidad-based Movement for Social Justice, in a release on Sunday, said the murder of Seetahal is “a further reflection of the abyss into which the country has descended

and is not a random act of violence, but a targeted assassination of a very visible public figure.” The organisation has expressed concern that assassinations are not new in the country and pointed to the murder of another prominent member of the legal fraternity Attorney Dr Wesley Debideen nine months ago “For the most part no one has been brought to justice for these targeted assassinations……there is little comfort in the fact that this matter remains unresolved. The Movement of Social Justice said the state has not lived up to its responsibilities for addressing many of the ills in the society. “The state has abandoned its responsibility for the development of many depressed communities in Trinidad and Tobago and left them to the law of the jungle,” the release said. Gunmen shot and killed Dana Seetahal, prominent senior counsel attorney and former independent legislator early Sunday morning just on the outskirts of the capital, Port of Spain. (CMC)


20

World News

May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Boko Haram opens fire on market place, kills hundreds Islamic militants who have triggered international outrage over the kidnapping of more than 270 Nigerian schoolgirls opened fire on a busy marketplace, killing hundreds of people in a new spasm of violence in the country’s northeast. The attack escalates Nigeria’s growing crisis from a campaign of bombings, massacres and abductions being waged by the Boko Haram terrorist network in its campaign to impose an Islamic state on Africa’s most populous nation. (TIME) Over 300 people were killed in the assault late Monday on the town of Gamboru Ngala on Nigeria’s border with Cameroon. The extremists opened fire on a marketplace bustling with shoppers taking advantage of the cooler nighttime temperatures in the semi-desert region, then rampaged through the town for 12 hours, setting houses ablaze and shooting those who tried to escape. The attack and hundreds of casualties were confirmed by Borno state information commissioner Mohammed Bulama, who spoke to The Associated Press by telephone Wednesday. Nigerian federal Senator Ahmed Zannah blamed fighters of the Boko Haram terrorist network that has claimed responsibility for the April 15 kidnapping of 276 teenage

The UK’s ranking has been boosted by higher levels of university entry.

Boko Haram killed over 300 persons on Monday.

girls from their boarding school in Chibok, in northeastern Borno state. The insurgents threatened to sell the young women into slavery in a video seen by AP. Outrage over the missing girls and the government’s failure to rescue them brought angry Nigerian protesters into the streets this week in an embarrassment for the government of President Goodluck Jonathan, who had hoped to showcase the country’s emergence as Africa’s largest economy as it hosted the Africa meeting of the World Economic Forum, the continent’s version of Davos. Offers of international assistance

have poured in, with the Obama administration announcing Tuesday it was sending personnel and equipment to help Nigerian security forces in their search for the girls in the vast Sambisa Forest. Jonathan confirmed that he has accepted the American assistance, which the Pentagon said Wednesday will help with communications, logistics and intelligence planning, but will not include any military operations. Britain and China announced Wednesday that Nigeria has accepted their offers of help, and France said it was sending in a “specialized team” to help with search and rescue of the girls.

UK ‘second best education in Europe’ – South Korea top global education league table THE UK is in second place among European countries and sixth overall in a global education league table. South Korea is top, with three other Asian countries and Finland making up the top five, in rankings from education and publishing firm, Pearson. The rankings include higher education as well as international school tests - which boosted the UK’s position. Pearson chief executive John Fallon highlighted the economic importance of improving education and skills. These latest international comparisons, compiled for Pearson by the Economist Intelligence Unit,

emphasise the success of Asian education systems, with South Korea, Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong in China rated as the highest performing. But it shows a strong performance from the UK, which is ranked sixth, behind only Finland in Europe and ahead of countries such as Germany, France and the United States. Finns no longer flying Finland, which was previously in first place, has slumped to fifth, reflecting a downward trend for a number of Scandinavian countries. It also records the rise of Poland, which has been hailed for reforming its post-Communist education system, and sits in the top 10.

China, Vietnam, Philippines collide amid Clegg: Tory knife crime escalating South China Sea tensions plan a ‘step backwards’ TENSIONS escalated in the South China Sea region this week after China, Vietnam and the Philippines were involved in a series of potentially explosive confrontations over disputed territory. Vietnamese officials say Chinese military and civilian ships have been intimidating its vessels near the Paracel Islands -- which are controlled by Beijing but claimed by Hanoi -- since Sunday, even accusing the Chinese of repeatedly ramming into them and shooting water cannons. Meanwhile, a Chinese fishing boat and its 11 crew members were apprehended on Tuesday by Philippine authorities near the Spartly Islands, another disputed region in the South China Sea. Philippine officials say the boat was carrying a large number of endangered species and they seized the boat “to uphold Philippine sovereign rights” in the disputed waters. “It’s possible that an armed clash could occur, but not a full-fledged war. The situation with Vietnam is serious -- more serious than the

In this photo released by the Vietnam Coast Guard, a Chinese ship, left, shoots water cannon at a Vietnamese vessel, right, while a Chinese Coast Guard ship, center, sails alongside in the South China Sea, off Vietnam’s coast, Wednesday, May 7, 2014.

situation with the Philippines,” said M. Taylor Fravel, Associate Professor of Political Science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). “China has controlled the northern half of the Paracel Islands since the 1950s and the southern half since 1974. Unlike the Spratly Islands, China maintains that no dispute

exists over the Paracels. So we can see that China believes that its claim there is quite strong,” he added. Relations between China and Vietnam soured on Friday, when a Chinese platform began drilling for oil near the Paracel Islands. The oil rig, Haiyang Shiyou 981, is owned by state gas and oil company CNOOC.

NICK Clegg has attacked plans by Tory justice minister Chris Grayling to automatically jail offenders convicted twice for possessing a knife. The deputy prime minister dismissed it as a “headline-grabbing” policy that would do more harm than good. Writing in the Guardian, he suggested the policy could turn young offenders into hardened criminals. Mr Grayling is pushing for mandatory six-month jail terms for adults convicted twice for carrying a knife. His policy has the backing of several Conservative ministers but Lib Dem ministers are thought to be against it. Prime Minister David Cameron has not yet revealed whether he will formally support the idea. Mr Clegg suggested Mr Grayling’s plan, leaked to the press last week, was a “headline-grabbing” solution following the murder of the Leeds schoolteacher Ann Maguire, who was stabbed to death in front of her pupils.

The proposal seeks to jail for six months an adult convicted for the second time of possessing a knife.

The Liberal Democrat leader said that by trying to sound tough, politicians could end up making the situation worse. “When someone is caught carrying a knife, we need to do something about it,” he wrote in the newspaper. “But six months in prison is not always the right answer.” Mr Clegg said the policy, which seeks automatically to sentence someone to a minimum six months in prison the second time they are caught with a knife - “even a penknife, in your pocket” - could harm rehabilitation prospects.


May 10 - 16, 2014

World News

21

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Ukraine crisis: Pro-Russia rebel vote to go ahead – Despite Putin’s opinion change Ms Yingluck was ousted by the Constitutional Court on Wednesday.

Thailand ex-PM Yingluck faces corruption charge THAILAND’S anti-graft body has indicted ousted leader Yingluck Shinawatra over a controversial rice subsidy scheme. The case will now be voted on at the Senate. If impeached, Ms Yingluck will be barred from politics for five years. On Wednesday, the Thai Constitutional Court ordered Ms Yingluck and several cabinet ministers to step down. Thailand has been in political turmoil since anti-government protests erupted in November 2013. In February, snap elections were annulled. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) unanimously voted to indict Ms Yingluck, the commission’s chief said on Thursday. “The committee has investigated and there is enough evidence to make a case ... We will now forward it to the Senate,” Panthep Klanarong said. The NACC is also considering whether to file criminal charges against Ms Yingluck. Ms Yingluck has previously said she was only in charge of formulating the policy, not the dayto-day running of the scheme, and has said that the commission treated her unfairly.

Under the rice subsidy scheme, the government bought rice from Thai farmers at a much higher price than on the global market. However, it resulted in the accumulation of huge stockpiles of rice and hit Thailand’s rice exports hard. Critics said the scheme was too expensive and vulnerable to corruption. On Wednesday, a Thai court ruled that Ms Yingluck acted illegally when she transferred her national security head to another position in 2011. Ms Yingluck stepped down, and Commerce Minister Niwatthamrong Boonsongphaisan replaced her as prime minister. Ms Yingluck’s supporters believe the courts are biased against her. Ms Yingluck leads the ruling Pheu Thai Party, which won elections in 2011. It commands strong support from rural voters, especially in Thailand’s north and north-east. However, anti-government protesters, who tend to be urban and middle-class voters, have protested against Ms Yingluck’s administration for months, occupying official buildings and disrupting elections in February.

Nigeria’s Boko Haram threatens to sell schoolgirls on market THE Islamist militant group Boko Haram claimed responsibility on Monday for the abduction of more than 200 schoolgirls in northeast Nigeria last month and threatened to “sell them on the market”, the French news agency AFP reported, citing a video. Boko Haram on April 14 stormed an all-girl secondary school in the village of Chibok, in Borno state, then packed the teenagers, who had been taking exams, onto trucks and disappeared into a remote area along the border with Cameroon.

The brazenness and sheer brutality of the school attack shocked Nigerians, who have been growing accustomed to hearing about atrocities in an increasingly bloody five-year-old Islamist insurgency in the north. “I abducted your girls. I will sell them in the market, by Allah,” Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau said in the video, according to AFP, which is normally the first media outlet to get hold of Shekau’s videos. It did not immediately give further details. (Reuters)

PRO-RUSSIAN activists in eastern Ukraine have said they will not postpone a referendum on autonomy planned for Sunday. The decision comes one day after Russian President Vladimir Putin urged delaying the vote to create the conditions necessary for dialogue. Ukrainian authorities said “antiterror” operations would continue regardless of the rebels’ decision. Millions of ballot papers have been prepared for the vote. “The referendum will take place on 11 May. We are getting ready, ballot papers are being printed, everything remains in force. Nothing will change, it will not be delayed,” Russian news agency RIA Novosti quoted activists in the eastern region of Luhansk as saying. A pro-Russian activist leader in Donetsk, Denis Pushilin, said the decision to press ahead with Sunday’s plebiscite was unanimous. The suggestion to postpone the vote may have come “from a person who indeed cares for the people of the south-east,” he told the AP news agency, “but we are the bullhorn of the people”.

In the city of Sloviansk, funerals took place on Wednesday of those killed in clashes between the army and pro-Russia gunmen.

Moscow has vowed to protect the rights of Ukraine’s Russian-speaking population against what it calls an undemocratic government in Kiev. Ukrainian authorities have rejected activist demands for greater autonomy and troops have been battling to regain official buildings occupied by rebels in the east. The European Union warned of the dangers of pressing ahead with the vote. “Such a vote could have no democratic legitimacy and would only further worsen the situation,” a spokesperson for the EU foreign policy chief told reporters.

The separatists’ resolution to hold the referendum comes as a Pew Research Center poll released on Thursday shows that a strong majority of Ukrainians want their country to remain unified, even in the largely Russian-speaking east. On Wednesday, the White House said the “illegitimate, illegal” plebiscite should be cancelled rather than postponed. The US and the European Union have imposed sanctions against several Russian individuals and businesses and threatened wider measures if Moscow interferes further in eastern Ukraine.

With no hard evidence, hunt for MH370 to get deeper, broader and pricier AFTER 61 days and no tangible evidence, officials from Malaysia, China and Australia were scheduled to plot the next steps in the hunt for MH370 this week. Their tasks: Review all the information gathered so far and figure out what tools will be needed in the next stage of the search -- a deeper, broader probe of the Indian Ocean. Two things are certain: This new phase will be expensive and even more difficult. Australia estimates it will cost $60 million, with the breakdown of who’s going to pay for what yet to be determined. But perhaps the greatest challenge now will be scouring unchartered territory. A key element of the new phase will be a detailed mapping of the ocean floor. “We know that the water is very deep,” Australian Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss said this week. “And for the next stage involving sonar and other autonomous vehicles, potentially at very great depths, we need to have

Australia estimates that the new search would cost some $60 million.

an understanding of the ocean floor to be able to undertake that kind of search effectively and safely.” The next phase will focus on 60,000 square kilometers of the ocean floor, a process that could take six to eight months. Truss said he’s not sure how deep the ocean is in the expanded search area because “it’s never been mapped.” Search enters new, ‘more difficult’ $60 million phase

Searchers plan to use more highly specialized technology, including towed side-scan sonar and more autonomous underwater vehicles. Truss said most of the new equipment will likely have to come from the private sector. “You can count on one hand the number of devices that can do this work, when you talk about towed sonar devices,” said Angus Houston, chief coordinator of the joint search effort, said Monday.


22 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 10 - 16, 2014

Poor turnout for workers’ exhibition ALTHOUGH the turnout for the closing of World Day for Safety and Health at Work and Workers was somewhat poor, it enabled a few Belongers to seek employment. The exhibition which was organised in front of the Sam’s Plaza in Providenciales on Friday (May 2) was a day of information display and kiosks to give residents the opportunity to come out and learn about safety techniques on the job. Organisers said that a lack of

support may have been due to minimum promotion of the event, but considered it to be a very informative event. The Gracebay Club, the TCI Red Cross, officials from the Environmental Health Centre, National Health Insurance, Employment Services Department and the National Insurance Board had booths set up at the event. Human resources manager for Grace Bay Club, Veronica Clare, said

that the resort took the opportunity to interview interested candidates for job positions during the exhibition. Clare said that only about five people applied for positions throughout their time at the event. The positions made available were, assistant chief engineer, engineering supervisor, pool and beach attendant, bartender, chief account, laundry senior technicians, two painters with masonry or carpentry background, assistant

housekeeping manager, refrigeration and ac senior technician. World Day for Safety and Health at Work and Workers 2014 held a list of events on Providenciales throughout the week that received more support from the community. Employment Services, the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB) and National Insurance Board (NIB) attended a job fair held at Beaches on Monday (April 28) and set up a booth to talk about the

initiative. Nursing staff from primary healthcare visited the Department of Employment Services and checked the blood pressure of employees. This service was extended to other agencies under the Ministry of Border Control and Labour as well as their customers. These are just some of the events organised to commemorate the initiative, with festivities also taking place in Grand Turk. (DH)


May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

23


24

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 10 - 16, 2014


May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

25


26

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 10 - 16, 2014

Jamie Foxx (bottom) and Andrew Garfield star in The Amazing Spider-Man 2.

Amazing Spider-Man 2 leaps to top of US box office MARVEL sequel The Amazing Spider-Man 2 has opened at the top of the North American box office with takings of $92m (£54.5m). The superhero Sony film enjoyed the second best domestic debut of the year so far, just behind Disney’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier. The latter took $96m (£58m) in its first weekend in April. The Amazing Spider-Man 2 enjoyed an overseas haul of $116m (£68.7m) over the weekend. That brings the film’s international total to $370m (£219.3m) after three weeks on release outside the US and Canada. The movie sees Peter Parker/ Spider-Man (Andrew Garfield) defending himself against numerous super villains including the Rhino, played by Paul Giamatti. The sequel bumped last week’s North American number one - The Other Woman, starring Cameron Diaz - into second spot, with takings of $14.2m (£8.4m). Heaven is for Real, the story of a young boy who claims to have visited heaven during a near-death experience, was third with $8.6m (£5m). Captain America: The Winter Soldier was fourth with $7.7m (£4.5m) in its fifth week, with animation Rio 2 at number five with $7.6m (£4.5m) A fair comparison with the 2012 opening of The Amazing SpiderMan is difficult, since the first film opened the week of the 4th of July, when the US has a national holiday it took $62m (£36.7m) on its opening weekend and $137m (£81.2m) over its first week. Sony has two more Spider-Man movies due for release in 2016 and 2018. (BBC)


May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 27

Tourist Board focuses on Brazilian tourists A GOVERNMENT trip to Brazil helped to tap into a huge tourism market, according to members of the Tourist Board. A team from the board recently returned from a marketing and trade initiative in the South American country that culminated with a showcase at the World Travel Market Latin America (WTMLA). “We want to be visible and make sure we’re top of mind to Brazilian travellers,” Director of Tourism Ralph Higgs said. “The recent road show allowed the Tourist Board the opportunity to meet and build relationships with the top travel professionals from several regions in South America and to encourage travel to the TCI. “This buzz in the Brazilian market is a direct result of years of hard work by the Tourist Board and its hotel partners and the TCHTA.” Tourist arrivals to the TCI from Brazil grew by 95.5 per cent in 2013, from 605 tourists in 2012 to 1,185 tourists in 2013. This year tourism officials are ramping up its presence in the cities of São Paulo, Rio de Janerio and Jundiaí. In addition to attending WTMLA, the Tourist Board also presented at the Rio Boat Show, PADI Dive Festival, NAUI and Scuba Schools International (SSI) dive agencies, as well as met with airline carriers, real estate and financial services investors, marketing firms, and a number of Brazil’s top high end travel agencies and wholesalers. A major accomplishment of the trip was the partnership forged with CVC Viagens, a wholesaler and tour operator in Brazil.

CVC is the largest tour operator in Latin America and the third largest in the world, with 800 stores and 7,000 salesmen. The company hopes to launch its first marketing package to the Turks and Caicos Islands by the end of June 2014. Mariana G Bonaparte, CVC’s product manager for the Caribbean and Mexico, said: “CVC is pleased to announce a very promising partnership with the Turks and Caicos Tourist Board. “During the months of May and June, we plan to structure our packages and begin our efforts in order to launch the destination to our clients all over Brazil, particularly to those clients that matches the Turks and Caicos’ visitor demographics. “We are aware of the Caribbean’s market potential in our emerging economy and especially of the islands of the Turks and Caicos, and that is the reason why we foresee a fruitful partnership for a long time.” Since the Tourist Board launched its digital marketing efforts in Brazil last year, the destination has received some editorial coverage. Respected Brazilian journalists and dive operators, Alcides Falanghe and Tatiana Zanardi of Ocean Eyes Productions noted that Brazilians are becoming well acquainted with the Turks and Caicos Islands. “The Turks and Caicos Islands is like the latest fashion trend or hotspot for Brazilians; a popular and sought after brand. “Those who have visited are constantly buzzing about the destination so now everyone wants to visit.”

Turks and Caicos Tourist Board’s Director, Ralph L Higgs with current world record freediver Karol Meyer

Aquatica seaworkers visit team TCI at the Tourist Board’s booth during the PADI Dive Festival


28

Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 10 - 16, 2014

Photo of Willow Smith in bed with older, shirtless actor raises concerns A PHOTO of Willow Smith is raising eyebrows. The 13-year-old daughter of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith was photographed lying in bed next to “Hannah Montana” alum and “Ender’s Game” star Moises Arias, 20. The “Whip My Hair” singer is dressed in pants and a top, but Arias, who played Rico on the Disney series, is shirtless in the shot, which he posted on Instagram. While there is no contact between them in the black and white photo, social media was on fire with comments branding it inappropriate. Arias — who is friends with Willow’s 15-year-old brother, Jaden, as well as his sometimes gal pal Kylie Jenner, 16, and her 18-year-old sister Kendall — deleted the photo from Instagram. While Arias hasn’t spoken out about the photo directly, a source close to him told Gossip Cop that Willow is “like a sister” to him, and he finds the speculation over a romantic relationship between them “disgusting” and “laughable.” Whether or not something inappropriate was happening between Moises and the just-barely-a-teen Willow, it’s her lesson to learn, according to the parenting style of her famous mom and dad. “We don’t do punishment,” Will told Metro last year during a joint interview with Jaden. “The way that we

File photo: Russian President Vladimir Putin signed off on a new law that bans swearing at arts, cultural and entertainment events in the country.

The 13-year-old Willow Smith is seen here with 20-year-old actor Moises Arias.

deal with our kids is, they are responsible for their lives. Our concept is, as young as possible, give them as much control over their lives as possible and the concept of punishment, our experience has been — it has a little too much of a negative quality.” He continued, “So when they do things — and you know, Jaden, he’s done things — you can do anything you want as long as you can explain to me why that was the right thing to do for your life.” Both Will and Jada have long been letting Willow call the shots in her own life, including when she shaved

off most of her hair in 2012. It was a topic that Jada found herself publicly addressing when her parenting was called into question. “The question why I would let Willow cut her hair, first the let must be challenged,” Jada wrote on Facebook. “This is a world where women [and] girls are constantly reminded that they don’t belong to themselves — that their bodies are not their own, nor their power or selfdetermination. I made a promise to endow my little girl with the power to always know that her body, spirit and her mind are her domain.”

Jolie never thought she’d ‘be in love’ or ‘have children,’ ANGELINA Jolie has a successful career, a loving fiancé and six beautiful children. However, the A-lister didn’t always see her life turning out that way. “I never thought I’d have children, I never thought I’d be in love, I never thought I’d meet the right person,” Jolie told the June issue of Elle. “Having come from a broken home — you kind of accept that certain things feel like a fairy tale, and you just don’t look for them.” The 38-year-old actress, who stuns on Elle’s cover and inside the fashion mag, continued to open up about her personal life and relationship with actor beau, Brad Pitt. “You get together and you’re two individuals and you feel inspired by each other, you challenge each other, you complement each other, drive each other beautifully crazy,” she gushed. “After all these years, we have history — and when you have history with somebody, you’re friends in such a very real, deep way that there’s such a comfort, and an ease, and a deep love that comes from having been through quite a lot

Angelina Jolie said that “having come from a broken home — you kind of accept that certain things feel like a fairy tale, and you just don’t look for them.”

together.” The Hollywood stars infamously got together after co-starring and meeting on the set of 2005’s “Mr. and Mrs. Smith.” The effortlessly chic brunette beauty said that while her future may

have looked blurry when she was young, she learned a long time ago to live life to the fullest. “(If) you don’t experiment, or you’re afraid, or you hesitate, or there are things you know you should do but you just don’t get around to them, is a life that I’d be miserable living, and the only way to feel that I’m on the right path is just to be true to myself, whatever that may be, and that tends to come with stepping out of something that’s maybe safe or traditional.” Jolie added that in her 20s she was “misinterpreted as wanting to be rebellious.” “And in fact it wasn’t a need to be destructive or rebellious — it’s that need to find a full voice, to push open the walls around you,” she explained. “You want to be free. And as you start to feel that you are being corralled into a certain life, you kind of push against it. It may come out very strange, it may be interpreted wrong, but you’re trying to find out who you are.” Next up for Jolie is her role as the villain in Disney’s “Maleficent.” (NYdailynews)

Swearing off bad language: Russia bans cussing in films, books, music THINKING about making a film? Better leave out the foul language if you want it to be seen in Russia. The same goes for plays. Even rock stars will need to leave their potty mouths at home. Russian President Vladimir Putin signed off on a new law Monday that bans swearing at arts, cultural and entertainment events in the country. Any new film containing obscene language won’t be granted a distribution certificate, so there’s no chance of seeing it at the movie theater. And copies of books, CDs or films containing swearing can only be distributed in a sealed package labeled “Contains obscene language,” a Kremlin statement said. According to state news agency ITAR-Tass, individuals

caught using foul language face a fine of up to $70, while officials can be fined up to $40 and businesses nearly $1,400. They face a higher fine and a three-month suspension of business for repeated offenses. Determination of what counts as profane language will be done through “an independent examination,” the news agency said. According to the Kremlin, the legislation “bans the use of obscene language when ensuring the rights of Russian citizens to the use of the state language, and protecting and developing language culture.” The law could come into effect as soon as July 1, ITAR-Tass said, but it doesn’t apply to cultural and artistic works that have already been issued.

Crews named new host of ‘Who Wants to Be a Millionaire’ TERRY Crews is going in for Cedric The Entertainer as new host of “Who Wants To Be a Millionaire.” Crews, an actor, former NFL player and Old Spice pitchman, will join the weekday game show starting this fall, according to its studio, Disney-ABC Domestic Television. He replaces comedian Cedric The Entertainer, who’s hosting the show in its 12th season in national syndication. Crews has been a regular this season on the freshman Fox sitcom “Brooklyn Nine-Nine.” His films include Tyler Perry’s “The Single Moms Club” and Ivan Reitman’s “Draft Day.” His first book, “Manhood,” will be out this month. Meredith Vieira launched the syndicated version of “Millionaire” in 2002 and remained host for 11 seasons. Regis Philbin emceed the prime-time ABC version from 2000 to 2002. (NYdailynews)

Terry Crews replaces comedian Cedric The Entertainer.


May 10 - 16, 2014

Entertainment

29

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Lewinsky says she is tired of ‘tiptoeing around my past,’ Miley Cyrus says that her recent illness was a reaction to some bad antibiotics and not to drugs.

Miley Cyrus: I didn’t overdose on drugs MILEY Cyrus may be well-known for some wild antics, but she insists taking drugs is not one of them. According to People, the singer refuted rumors that her recent illness was anything other than the reported bad reaction to medicine. It led to the rescheduling of some dates for her “Bangerz” tour. Cyrus insisted she is “the poster child for good health” while speaking Tuesday during a press

conference at London’s O2 Arena in anticipation of her rebooted European tour. “I didn’t have a drug overdose,” she said. “I took some s****y antibiotics that a doctor gave me for a sinus infection and I had a reaction.” Cyrus fell ill in April while on tour and was hospitalized for an “extreme allergic reaction.” The illness also caused her to delay the start of her European tour.

Kardashian and West will not marry until prenup is signed KIM Kardashian and Kanye West reportedly can’t get married because their prenup agreement is still being hashed out. Sources connected with Kim and Kanye have told TMZ that the prenup won’t be signed until next week, probably Wednesday at the earliest. The site adds that they have been informed that the marriage will NOT take place until both Kim and Kanye sign on the dotted line. Unlike Kim’s prenup with previous husband Kris Humphries, the negotations with Kanye are said to be ‘friendly’ with no fighting. According to TMZ ‘there’s just a lot to work out, and it got complicated by the fact that Kanye recently changed management’. The site is also predicting that the wedding will take place in Paris on the Memorial Day weekend at the end of this month. Meanwhile 33-year-old Kim took to Twitter to set rumours to rest that she was already married to Kanye. She wrote: ‘We are not married yet!’

STEADY work has proved elusive for Monica Lewinsky in the 16 years since news of the Clinton sex scandal broke. The most famous intern in history laments her unemployment in a forthcoming Vanity Fair essay, revealing how her career in communications and branding has failed to take off thanks to “what potential employers so tactfully referred to as my ‘history.’” “I was never ‘quite right’ for the position,” Lewinsky, now 40, writes. “In some cases, I was right for all the wrong reasons, as in, ‘Of course, your job would require you to attend our events.’ And, of course, these would be events at which press would be in attendance.” Lewinsky first broke her silence about her sexcapades with President Bill Clinton in a 1999 Barbara Walters interview. She cooperated with author Andrew Morton on his book, “Monica’s Story,” sat for HBO documentary and gave other

Monica Lewinsky, now 40, talks about her life after Bill Clinton in a tell-all Vanity Fair essay.

interviews. But she later ducked the media glare to attend the London School of Economics, earning a graduate degree in 2006. In excerpts of her essay posted Tuesday, Lewinksy says she stayed silent during Hillary Clinton’s 2008 presidential race to avoid becoming

a distraction. With another Clinton campaign possibly looming, she found herself “gun-shy yet again,” she said. But she decided to stop “tiptoeing around my past — and other people’s futures. I am determined to have a different ending to my story. I’ve decided, finally, to stick my head above the parapet.” Lewinsky says the 2010 suicide of Tyler Clementi, the gay Rutgers student who jumped off the George Washington Bridge after he was outed, moved her to break her recent silence. She explained that Clementi’s death had her mother “reliving 1998.” “She was replaying those weeks when she stayed by my bed, night after night, because I, too, was suicidal,” Lewinsky writes, adding that she never tried to commit suicide herself. In her essay, Lewinsky resolves that she is ready to “burn the beret and bury the blue dress.” (NYdailynews)

Berry and Sellars named as Polar laureates

Sources connected with Kim and Kanye have told TMZ that the prenup won’t be signed until next week, probably Wednesday at the earliest.

The mother to North also mentioned that her nuptials won’t be televised. ‘We are not filming our wedding for Keeping Up With The Kardashians,’ she added. ‘You will see everything leading up til and after! (sic)’

US rock and roll legend Chuck Berry and American theatre director Peter Sellars have been named as 2014 Polar Music Prize laureates. They will be presented with their awards by King Carl XVI of Sweden at a ceremony in Stockholm on 26 August. The million kronor prize (£82,000) was founded 25 years ago by Stig ‘Stikkan’ Anderson, the publisher, lyricist and manager of Abba. The first Polar Music Prize laureate was Sir Paul McCartney. The aim of the award is to “break down musical boundaries by bringing together people from all the different worlds of music.’ In a career spanning seven decades, pioneer Berry has released a string of classic songs such as Roll Over Beethoven and Johnny B Goode. According to the award committee: “In the course of three minutes he conjures up an image of the everyday life and dreams of a teenager, often with the focus on cars. Chuck Berry, born in 1926, was the first to drive up onto the highway

Chuck Berry (left) is a rock and roll pioneer, while Peter Sellars is known for his re-interpretations of classic operas.

and announce that we are born to run.” Acclaimed opera, theatre and festival director Sellars is known for his re-interpretations of classic works. Sellars is working with the English National Opera later this year for the world stage premiere of John Adams’s latest work, The

Gospel According to the Other Mary. He is, said the award organisers, “a living definition of what the Polar Music Prize is all about: highlighting the music and presenting it in a new context”. Previous laureates include Joni Mitchell, Paul Simon, BB. King, Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen. (BBC)


30

Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 10 - 16, 2014

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

FLOWER GIRL

Is looking for a Part-time

FOR RENT

delivery driver

contact: 946-4664

Contact: 231-3788

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

With own transportation who is interested in making extra cash.

FOR SALE

FOR RENT

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

contact: 946-4664

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


May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS 31

PRICED FOR Amazing Value! QUICK SALE Lot for Sale

Beautiful hillside, water front lot in Paw Paw Joe, North Caicos South

$50,000

(or nearest offer) Also additional seven acres plus in Kerr Mount (inland)

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

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

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! The largest readership in the Turks & Caicos

contact Veronica at 1-242-327-8011 or 1-649-232-3508, (242) 676-3592

PRICE SLASHED JOB VACANCIES FOR QUICK SALE

$180,000 CASH! House and ½ Acre land Richmond Hill 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Fully furnished

Call: 231-3788

Seven Stars Resort is seeking suitably qualified Belongers to fill the positions outlined below. Ideal candidates should possess luxury resort experience, be out-going and friendly, with a professional demeanor and must be fluent in English, be a team player with a strong work ethic, available for work on public holidays, weekends and evenings. Salaries are based on experience and qualifications. Suitable candidates must have a minimum of 2 years’ experience working at a 5 Star Resort in a similar role. Must have a strong attention to detail and exceptional ability to maintain the highest standards of quality required.

• Servers • Bartenders • Runners • Cook • Lead Server • Handyman • Housekeeper • Commis Chef • Chef De Partie • Room Attendant Team Leader Closing Date May 16, 2014 Suitably qualified candidates should apply via email to Seven Stars at: hr@sevenstarsgracebay.com for consideration Candidates must possess relevant skills, experience, and a clean police record.

ONLY CANDIDATES MEETING MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS WILL BE CONTACTED.


32 CLASSIFIEDS

Position Available

Y.A.3.B. CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients is looking for the following positions: Mango Café

Winky’s Catering

3 Barmaids

– $6.00 per hour

Labourer

Provo Entertaining

– $6.00 per hour

B’s Beauty Box

– $6.00 per hour

– $6.00 per hour

2 Waitresses 2 Bartenders – $6.00 per hour

May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

2 Cosmetologist Nail Technician – $6.00 per hour

Contact: 344-4540

Head Presser

• Minimum of 10 years experience in dry cleaning business with emphasis on pressing specialty items. • Excellent finishing quality and efficiency is required. • Must be able to stand for long hours and manage hot working conditions. • Must be fluent in English and be a team worker. • Please provide proof of experience. Email resume pioneercleanersaccnt@ gmail.com Please fax copy to TCI Labour Office: 649-946-4164 9495

Meditation Centre Turks and Caicos Islands

Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101

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

Senior Site Engineer

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Engineering Design Services (EDS) is seeking s a experience qualified professional to fill the post of site engineer.

Minimum Qualification :- Associate degree in structural or civil or construction engineering. Minimum Experience :• 15 years in Structural & Civil Detailing • 6 years in seismic detailing. A strong

International Transfer Company Limited (C.A.M.) in the Turks and Caicos Islands) seeks to employ a

Cashier • have at least one year’s experience as a Cashier • be willing to work on weekends/ holidays and shift duties when required • have basic knowledge of computers • have excellent communication skills • have good typing skills

Raja Yoga

VACANCY

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

Applicants must –

Brama Kumaris

• • • • •

understanding of seismic design is essential 8 years (construction) field experience knowledge of architectural concept and design Fluent in French & Creole. The successful candidate will be required to travel throughout the Caribbean and beyond Periods of relocation to Haiti will be required

Please Send Resume to pjkeds@tciway.tc Belongers only may apply for this post.

• have good interface with clients • produce a clean Police Record

BELONGERS ONLY NEED APPLY Please send all applications to: Stanfield Greene Graceway House Building A, Suite 201 Leeward Highway Providenciales

Caicos Television Holding Ltd.

9590

HUMAN RESOURCESPECIALIST JOB SUMMARY: Lead HR strategy and implementation for the WIV operation.

Position Available

DRY CLEANER

• Minimum 10 yrs experience in Dry Cleaning industry; pressing, spotting and operations management. • Minimum 5 yrs Management experience. • Must be able to operate & maintain machines. • Manage staff, processing & pressing operations, ordering supplies & track inventory. • Excellent interpersonal & communication skills. • Must be computer literate and have accounting skills. • Must be fluent in English. French & Spanish an asset.

NIGHT SHIFT SUPERVISOR • Minimum 10 yrs experience in Laundry industry.

• Minimum 3 yrs Management experience. • Night Shift: 9pm – 6am daily. • Must be able to operate & maintain machines. • Responsible to manage staff, scheduling, tracking POH, sorting, processing & organization of night shift. • Excellent interpersonal & communication skills. • Must be computer literate and have accounting skills. • Must be fluent in English. French & Spanish an asset.

Email resume to info@pioneertci.com or deliver to Pioneer office. Please fax/deliver copy to TCI Labour Office: 649-946-4164 9589

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Recruitment and selection for employees through innovative and proactive recruitment campaigns, graduate programs and specialist skills. • Maintain zero risk to the business from employee relations or related matters • Implement, maintain and optimize HR best practices • Implement & ensure that training & employee development policies and procedures are established, understood and optimized. • Implement, maintain and enhance WIVs Performance Management systems and practices. • Offer expert legal, generalist and best practice HR advice to the Senior Management Team and Business Managers • Ensure HR are involved and take responsibility for all employee relations issues at local levels • Help create a high performance culture where talent and achievement is recognized and rewarded • Ensure all training and development activities are managed in an effective manner QUALIFICATIONS and EXPERIENCE: • Degree in Human Resources Management or related discipline • Minimum 5 years HR Manager Experience, at least three years at senior manager level • Track record in effective HR Management ability to manage in a fast paced environment • Must have a thorough understanding of HR best practices DURATION: 6 month contract APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Resumewith current contact information must be accompanied by a cover letter to Lydia Tucker, email lydia@wiv.tc

APPLICATION DEADLINE: May 15, 2014

9579


May 10 - 16, 2014

Is seeking a

MAINTENANCE WORKER

ALBERT’S CLEANING SERVICES Is looking for a

labourer To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour apply in person with resume and immigration status.

labourer

Edith Hall

contact: 243-7785

9580

9582

To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

Cox Labour Services Ltd

Is seeking a

Leeward Highway Providenciales Telephone: 231- 6710

Domestic Worker LABOURERS, To work 5 days per

MASON Salary starts at

Contact 231-6102

9591

week. Interested persons

$5.00 per hour

9575

Needed with an emphasis on plumbing contact: 2421816 between the hours of 5pm-7pm Tuesday and Thursday salary $6.00 per hour working hours are from 8am-5pm weekdays

D. BELLE BEAUTY SALON Is looking for a

salon helper To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

contact: 241-5325

PRICE SLASHED $175,000

SALES!!!

Due to change of season we are selling lots of items at discount prices. Towels, curtains, bathroom sets, bathroom coordinates, napkins, cups and glasses, canisters, mixing bowls, serving trays and much more for your house. DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys

9597

NORTH CAICOS HOME OWNER

contact: 649-246-4769

CLASSIFIEDS 33

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

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

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos


34 CLASSIFIEDS

May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GUILLERMINA RODRIQUEZ

GLENN PENN Is looking for a

ABOUT US

Working in the Caribbean since 1995, we at dck worldwide take pride in our ability to integrate efficiently into the diverse cultures within the region. Having completed large construction projects in the Bahamas, Nevis, Anguilla, St. Kitts, St. Maarten, British Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands, Cuba and Puerto Rico we understand the unique challenges of working safely in in remote areas. Through partnering with local labor, governments and communities we always provide our clients with fully staffed regional offices. We are now looking forward to building long-lasting relationships in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

ABOUT THE POSTION

The Project Executive of Preconstruction has direct responsibility for identifying and securing the resources to support the efforts of the client, design consultants and cost planners in the preparation and presentation of the comprehensive scopes-of-work and associated cost plans. The project is a planned large-scale resort development.

ABOUT THE JOB

• Possess working knowledge and have the ability to clearly communicate technical details of all project requirements, details and specifications to ensure contractor compliance • Develop the initial project schedule and communicate schedule updates to all stakeholders. • Coordinate with the Architects, Engineers and Cost Planners to establish the design and bid packages and to ensure that the design produced remains within the parameters of the cost plan and funds available for construction. • Maintain a preconstruction cost forecast that reflects the cost for pre-construction services based on the most current design schedules and estimated staffing needs. • Ensure that the project running sheets, issues registers, modification/change logs, risk and opportunity registers and design schedules are maintained, current and accurate. • Responsible for the accuracy of all reports, logs and/or registers as may be required to accurately record the preconstruction function. • Responsible for ensuring that staff hired, trained, retained and developed are of the highest standard

ABOUT YOU Applicant must have:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Industrial Technology or a related Quantity Surveying/Construction Economics degree. • A minimum of 15 years of construction, estimating and design management experience on fast-track design build hospitality project in excess of $100 million. • A thorough knowledge of project management procedures, estimating techniques, design and engineering disciplines as well as cost control systems.

Applicant must have demonstrated shill in the following areas:

• Ability to conduct meetings with subordinates, design consultants, owners and other business unit leaders to receive, discuss and present project and corporate strategies. • Ability to anticipate resource requirements and the skill to recruit qualified resources. • Excellent organizational, leadership, analytical and oral presentation and written communication skills • Observable commitment to execute work and represent the corporation in a professional manner

Domestic Worker contact: 342-9831

ABOUT APPLYING

• To apply for this position, visit www.dckww.com , click Careers and upload your resume with references. • Applications with detailed resumes and the names of three business references should be submitted no later than May 12, 2014 • Dck TCI, Ltd. thanks all applicants for their interest.

To work 3 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

GTC LIMITED/ BELL LUNA

COOK

• Must have 5 years experience on the line with Italian cuisine • Must be willing to work weekends, evenings and holidays • Must be available 6 nights per week • Must speak, read and write English • Must work well with others and work well under pressure • Must have clean police record Salary $6.00 per hour

Submit resume to P.O. Box 543 or deliver resumes to restaurant Monday-Friday 10am-3pm closing date for application May 19th, 2014

contact: 241-1246

9572

ISACC SELVER – QUICK STEP SHOE REPAIR Is looking for a

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

contact: 9414800/941-4990

9592

LORENZO FRANCIS

LEMON CAFÉ

JAVON HARRIS

is seeking a

Is looking for a

labourer

Dishwasher

labourer

email: destinationtci@ gmail.com 9577

Please contact: Jonathan at 232-4933 9581

contact: 342-6134

Is looking for a

to work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

OVANDO CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

Salary $6.00 per hour Must be willing to work flexible hours including evenings and holidays

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

9593

HANDYMAN/ LABOURER NEEDED For a private home in Providenciales

ABOUT OUR OFFER

Applicants will have a challenging, diverse experience with opportunities for setting short and long-term goals for professional growth. Our compensation package is attractively structured.

handyman

To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

9596

Project Executive of Preconstruction

Is looking for a

Tile Layer To work 5 days per week salary $7.00 per hour.

contact: 331-9854

;; A hardworking person needed to work six days a week. ;; Must speak English. Must be Fit and able. Required to work 6 days a week. ;; Salary is $ 1,250.00 a month. Required to work six days a week ;; An experienced Belonger required for this position. If you fit the above qualifications please send your resume to the following address: PO Box 560, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. 9569


May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS 35

CARIB GLASS & SUPPLY LTD. is seeking to employ an Experienced

Door & Window Installer/ Trainee/Glass Technician Duties will include: • Assisting with installing commercial/residential doors and windows, glass cutting and fabrication, glass re-glazing, rescreening of doors & windows, measuring of repair job • Candidate must be able to read and write English also be able to read a measuring tape and understand & provide sketches for repair work • Training will be provided in all aspects of the glass industry • Normal hours of work will be 8:30am-5:30pm weekdays (number of hour worked will be discussed)

Rate of pay starting at $15.00 per hour Please submit your resume via email: caribglasstci@aol.com

ALBERT HIGGS NORTH CAICOS Is looking for

B&B SERVICES Is looking for

Are you a high performing, result driven Professional? If so, we would like to speak with you to join our dynamic team in the capacity of:

9547

CARIDAD POZO Is looking for a

Customer Care Representative (Based in Turks & Caicos)

1ToLabourer work 6 days a week. Salary: $5.50 / day

– $7.00/hour

2 Laborers

per week salary $5.50 per hour.

Contact: 245-6962

contact: 244-8584

DSP

9586

– $6.50/hour

Is looking for

Handyman To work 3 days

2 Domestic Workers

– $6.50/hour

9587

Contact: 243-7785

2 Painters

DUFRY GRAND TURK LTD. Is seeking 2

SALES MANAGERS

laboUrers To work 6 days

• Must have a high school diploma (or equivalent) is required • Two (2) degrees or above is strongly preferred • Minimum of 5 years retail experience • Three (3) years experience in Duty Free/Tax Free Cruise ship passenger arena • Five (5) years experience in fine jewelry retail • One year experience in customs and logistics

contact: 342-0090

Send resume by fax to: 649-946-1331

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Applications are invited from individuals with a solid background who will be will be an aggressive and enthusiastic phone personality who can articulate C&W’s value proposition to executive level decision-makers. The successful candidate needs to be able to work in a team environment and will be responsible for supporting the Corporate and Government Sales Team. Main Accountabilities are:

9573

1 A/C– $7.00/hour Technician

• Performs administrative sales support related activities to optimize the sales outcomes of the Corporate Sales Department • Liaise with relevant internal resource team for timely follow-up to all incoming leads and emails to convert to sales • Make outbound lead follow-up calls to potential and existing customers via telephone • Effectively communicate C&W’s products and processes in detail to customers • Work closely with Sales Executives (Corporate and Government) to provide product feedback • Advise customers on product features, detail of services and their cost. • Receive customer enquiries or issues as they arise, investigate/resolve/ escalate/consult with Credit Control, Service delivery or other departments as required. • Conduct follow-up activities and update customers on a timely basis through to resolution. • Provides 1st level support for products and services offered by the Company • Process requests for Sales Orders utilizing the Job Order System Minimum Experience and Qualifications:

JOB ADVERTISEMENT Gansevoort Turks + Caicos is a contemporary luxury full service boutique resort on Grace Bay Beach. We are looking for driven and energetic professionals with Five Star experience and who are committed to achieving excellence by ensuring Five Star standards and services are continuously delivered. Assistant Director For Food and Beverage: Directs and supervises, under the direction of the Director of Food & Beverage, all aspects of the Food & Beverage operations for the resort, Stelle, The Beach Bar + Grill, Bar’s, In Room Dining and any private dining functions and events. Main responsibilities are to ensure proper training and supervision of team and to deliver prompt, courteous service in a manner that complies with Gansevoort and Stelle standards. Supervises Middle Management, Servers, Server Assistants, Runners, Bartenders, Barbacks, Hostess and administrative personnel. The Assistant Director of Food and Beverage will be responsible for the effective administration, supervision and execution of programs consistent with the company standards and goals of providing excellent service while generating maximum revenue.

Interested applicants can contact our Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday 9am to 6pm on (649)941-7555. E- Mail cover letter outlining your interest and supporting experience in a particular position along with your Resume or C.V. to hr@wymara.com

9564

• A minimum of four (4) CXC passes at the General Proficiency level, inclusive of English Language, Mathematics or Accounts • 2 – 3 years of sales experience • Excellent verbal and written communication skills • Possess an entrepreneurial spirit • Knowledge of MS Office and PC • Ability to manage multiple task prioritizing effectively • Customer Service Focused • Effective Planning and Organization skills • Excellent presentation skills

To explore this exciting career opportunity please send your application and resume no later than May 12th, 2014 to recruit@lime.com or fax to: 1-876-920-9336


36 CLASSIFIEDS

May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE, CAP 9.05

NOTICE LOST LAND CERTIFICATE TITLE NUMBER SECTION ISLAND 51203/7 BOTTLE CREEK CENTRAL NORTH CAICOS Whereas, CAROL LOUISE MISSICK as Personal Representative of the estate of ERICA DELIA WILLIAMS deceased, has declared that the Land Certificate for the above mentioned title number(s) registered in his/her/their name was inadvertently mislaid and cannot be found. Take notice that I, Tresha-Gaye Ustanny, Acting Registrar of Lands, shall issue a new land certificate for the said title six weeks of the date of the first publication of this Notice in a local newspaper and the Gazette.

SWIFT DELIVERY SERVICES

SAM’S

Is looking for a

Acting on behalf of our client is looking for an

Extreme Adventure Photographer

labourer To work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 242-2824

9568

• Must have at least 10 years experience in photographing, videography, editing and production in kite-surfing and action sports • Must be efficient in Final Cut and Photoshop • Must have working relationships with kite surfing and action sports publication, websites • Must be able to operate GoPro and Aerial UAV Drone Quadcopter

Contact: 232-1643

9824

Dated this 29th day of April 2014

PARALEGAL

Signed ………………………………………. Acting Registrar of Lands Witnessed ……………………………………

The position requires:

TCMillwork ltd. Architectural woodworking, Cabinetry and Design

South dock road, P.O. box 238, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

CNC Router Operator Skills Required:

• 5 years work experience in woodworking, joinery and cabinet making. • Trained to manufacture and finish furniture . Salary at $8.00 per hour Skills required for position: • Individual must have previous experience with manufacture, construction, and installation of high end cabinetry. • Must be familiar with operation of all current

woodworking machinery and tools with proper safety practices. • Must be able to read Auto-Cad drawings. • English speaking, bilingual preferred.

Apply with resume, quoting reference “Paralegal” to

Duties: Manufacture and finish furniture and cabinets, refinishing, and installation. Assist other employees in general millshop operations and maintenance. Must be professional and courteous.

Deveraux C. Malcolm MISICK & STANBROOK P.O. Box 127, Providenciales Telefax: 946 4734 E-Mail: info@misickstanbrook.tc

Please send applications to: tcmillwork@tciway.tc contact person: Stephan 231-4537

TCMillwork ltd.

APEX DEVELOPMENTS LTD.

Architectural woodworking, Cabinetry and Design South dock road, P.O. box 238, Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands

CNC Router Operator Skills Required:

Project Field Manager

Job Responsibilities:

• Construction program scheduling; • Managing contractors and other related vendors; and • Regular reporting to management team.

• 5 years work experience in woodworking, joinery and cabinet making. • Trained to manufacture and finish furniture . Salary at $8.00 per hour

Qualifications Required:

• Estimating construction projects, including detailed take-offs, labour estimating, etc.; • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and project specifications; • Minimum of fifteen years experience as a project field manager or similar; • Must have experience in constructing and opening five star quality hotels.

Skills required for position:

• Individual must have previous experience with manufacture, construction, and installation of high end cabinetry. • Must be familiar with operation of all current woodworking machinery and tools with proper safety practices. • Must be able to read Auto-Cad drawings. • English speaking, bilingual preferred.

Other Job Requirements:

• Must relocate full time to the project site, and • Candidate must be available to work weekends and holidays.

Duties:

Position available immediately. Salary to be based on qualifications and experience. All applicants will be reviewed; however only qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Manufacture and finish furniture and cabinets, refinishing, and installation. Assist other employees in general millshop operations and maintenance. Must be professional and courteous.

Please send applications to: tcmillwork@tciway.tc contact person: Stephan 231-4537

• Experience as a paralegal with strong computer and research skills • Ability to work with minimum supervision • Good communication and organization skills • Previous experience in real estate an asset • Closing date for applications: 19th May 2014.

9827

Resumes must be submitted by email by May 23 2014 to: Apex Developments Ltd. (Attention: Manager) Email: administration@apexdevelopment.com

9819


May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS 37

Are you a high performing, result driven Professional?

Are you a high performing, result driven Professional?

If so, we would like to speak with you to join our dynamic team in the capacity of:

If so, we would like to speak with you to join our dynamic team in the capacity of:

(Based in Turks & Caicos)

(Based in Turks & Caicos)

Sales Support Officer

Applications are invited from individuals with a solid background who with an aggressive and enthusiastic phone personality who can articulate C&W’s value proposition to executive level decisionmakers. The successful candidate needs to be able to work in a team environment and will be responsible for supporting the Corporate and Government Sales Team

Main Accountabilities are: • Performs administrative sales support related activities to optimize the sales outcomes of the Corporate Sales Department • Liaise with relevant internal resource team for timely follow-up to all incoming leads and emails to convert to sales • Make outbound lead follow-up calls to potential and existing customers via telephone • Effectively communicate C&W’s products and processes in detail to customers • Work closely with Sales Executives (Corporate and Government) to provide product feedback • Assists in the preparation of quotations, proposals and presentations based on customer requirements. • Maintain records utilizing Microsoft Excel and Salesforce.com • Facilitate resolution of inquiries and issues • Process requests for Sales Orders utilizing the Job Order System

Minimum Experience and Qualifications: • A minimum of four (4) CXC passes at the General Proficiency level, inclusive of English Language, Mathematics or Accounts • 2 – 3 years of sales experience • Excellent verbal and written communication skills • Possess an entrepreneurial spirit • Knowledge of MS Office and PC • Ability to manage multiple task prioritizing effectively • Customer Service Focused • Effective Planning and Organization skills • Excellent presentation skills

To explore this exciting career opportunity please send your application and resume no later than May 12th 2014 to recruit@lime.com or fax to: 1-876-920-9336

Pre-Sales Support Officer

Applications are invited from individuals with a solid background who will be responsible for recommendation, design implementation and performance of LIME solutions that exceed the productivity expectations of the Corporate Customers. The successful candidate will work closely with Account Managers to deliver sound Sales Presentations with the technical advice the corporate customers need to make informed, valuebased decisions.

Main Accountabilities are: • Provide bid-support for Account Managers ensuring complete responses to customer RFPs. • Proactively seek new opportunities to drive sales and maintenance revenues and present these to Account Managers. • Provide technical interface between Customers and Managed Service Operations. • Support Account Managers to ensure complete Customer Requirement Definitions are fully documented. • Plan system layouts and implementation in consultation with customer and Manager MSO. • Provide direct technical support to all Account Managers as required. • Provide product support and project management oversight. • Manage the range of products and services offered by the company as it relates to corporate

Minimum Experience and Qualifications: • A Bachelors’ Degree or demonstrable equivalent experience • 1-2 years’ experience in project management • 3-5 years of CPE Network Experience

To explore this exciting career opportunity please send your application and resume no later than May 12th 2014 to recruit@lime.com or fax to: 1-876-920-9336


38 CLASSIFIEDS Is looking for a

Is looking for a

labourer Contact: 243-7785

9823

To work 5 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.

SECURITY OFFICER

to work 6 days per week salary $12.00 per hour.

contact: 243-7785

ALEISA MUSGROVE Is looking for a

Is looking for

Clerk domestic 2Tosales work 6 days worker a week. Salary: $6.00 / hour

To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour email: Aleisa. musgrove@gmail.com

Contact: 243-4350

Mr. J. Hamilton Is looking for a

male nanny/ houseman

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

To Execute Transactions In Analysing Type Of Metal And Rate Of Purchase At Providenciales Based Store. Salarly Based On Experience/Commission. Please Send Resumes To Usa Gold Ltd. P.o. Box 127 Richmond House, Providenciales Turks And Caicos.

SUPERIOR PAINTING Is looking for a

PAINTER To work 5 days per week salary $9.00 per hour.

contact: 247-0801

9816

GOLD PURCHASING ASSISTANT

C & J EMPLOYMENT Acting on behalf of our clients: C&P Welding, Cowdrey Lightbourne, Bridget Robinson, Delano Ewing, AM J’s Variety Store, Tropical Bar

CASTILLO CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

Waitress

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! USA GOLD LTD. SEEKS

Barbara Adams

APEX DEVELOPMENTS LTD.

That can maintain her property while she’s of islands, duties include, cleaning the yard, keeping house clean when guest leave and paying all utility bill. Pleas contact 331-0044 more information 9809

– $5.00 per hour

Labourers labourer To work 6 days – $5.00 per hour

Domestic Worker – $5.00 per hour

per week salary $5.50 per hour.

Contact: 649-347-2093

contact: 341-8679

Is looking for a male

nanny/houseman That can maintain her property while she’s of islands, duties include, cleaning the yard, keeping house clean when guest leave and paying all utility bill. Must be willing to live on compound.

Please contact 242-2054 for more information

Specific duties: • Participate in daily activities of the sales staff, providing active solutions, experience & guidance • Evaluate customer needs and make necessary changes to adjust to market conditions without sacrificing service • Providing the highest level of service and customer care through systematic discipline and accurate rate quotes, bookings & problem resolution. • Participates in the sales planning • Prepares sales reports and advise management of potential issues with suggested solutions.

Qualifications Required: • Knowledgeable and experienced in the maintenance of diesel generators, RO Plants, water tanks and other related equipment; • Solid electrical and mechanical background with 5+ years of related experience.

The ideal candidate will possess: • Excellent written and oral communication skills in English, French and Spanish • A minimum 3-5 years sales experience in the transportation, shipping or related industry • Working knowledge of Lotus Notes and MS Office software • A professional demeanor • A Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, Marketing or related field, valid local driver’s license and current passport.

This position is immediately available. Salary for the position is dependent on qualifications and experience. All applicants will be reviewed; however only qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview. Resumes must be submitted by email by May 23 2014 to

9818

9808

Sales Representative

We are currently seeking a Sales Representative to join our team at Cargo Express Services in Providenciales, Turks & Caicos. The successful candidate will be responsible for servicing and maintaining the existing customer base and identifying profitable opportunities for new business.

Job Responsibilities: • Assist with maintenance of utility equipment; • Employee must reside on job site; • Employee to be available weekends & holidays.

9805

Ms. Mcleod

Tropical Shipping LLC provides weekly container service between the US, Canada and the Caribbean operating state-of-the-art facilities in select seaside ports to meet our customer’s freight shipping needs by providing convenient & reliable transportation solutions.

Utility Operations Assistant

Apex Development Ltd. (Attention: Manager) Email: administration@apexdevelopment.com

9585

ALBERT HIGGS NORTH CAICOS

ALBERT HIGGS NORTH CAICOS

May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Interested persons should forward their resume via email to: bkerr@tropical. com or by facsimile to 649-941-5525. Application deadline: May 30, 2014


May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CARIBBEAN CRUISIN Is looking for a

Joanne Karam

FIRST GLOBAL INSURANCE BROKERS, LTD.

Is looking for a

MALE NANNY/ HOUSEMEN

Must be willing to work over-time. Salary $5.00 per hour. Belongers only need apply. Application deadline is May 15th, 2014.

Fax: 649-941-8388

9802

First Global Insurance Brokers Limited is seeking to recruit a dynamic sales and marketing professionl for the position of:

That can maintain her property while she’s of islands, duties include, cleaning the yard, keeping house clean, live on compound, cooking, laundry and care for 2 boys, 4 dogs, clean yard, etc.

[Marie] 331-4911

GENERAL MANAGER The General Manager, will be responsible for the strategic leadership and growth of the company.

9810

Labourer

ASHWOOD A. HALL

ISLAND DREAM WORKS

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

C & C ROUTER PROGRAMMER

Labourer

To work 6 days per week salary $9.00 per hour.

Must be willing to work overtime. Salary $5.00 per hour. Belongers only need apply. Application deadline is May 15th, 2014

Contact: 241-2750 9806

CLASSIFIEDS 39

Fax: 649-941-8388

9803

The Role • The General Manager will be responsible for preparing the company’s business plans and directing the operations to achieve budgeted goals and other key performance indicators. • The individual selected will be responsible for managing and promoting the image of the company as the Broker of choice. • The successful candidate will develop and motivate a team of professionals who are committed to delivering high quality service. • The General Manager will maintain appropriate contacts and develop relationships with key stakeholders. • The successful candidate will focus on increasing the company’s client portfolio through the acquisition and renewal of customer accounts. • The General Manager will focus on the company’s risk management. The Candidate • The ideal candidate will have completed a post graduate degree in Business Administration or related discipline and have the Insurance Qualification such as Advanced Diploma in Insurance (ACII). • The General Manager must have a minimum of ten years’ experience in general insurance of which, at least seven must be at a senior management level. • The candidate must have knowledge of all classes of insurance and reinsurance as well as the Laws of Turks and Caicos Islands. • The candidate must be able to demonstrate strong leadership skills and ability to build and motivate teams to achieve results. • Sound decision making, analytical, forecasting and organisational skills are required for the post. • Proven, effective oral and written communication skills as well as strong negotiations skills are essential. • The ideal candidate must have advanced knowledge in the use of Microsoft Project and financial software applications.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER The ideal candidate should possess the necessary experience and must meet the following qualifications for:

JOB ADVERTISEMENT Gansevoort Turks + Caicos is a contemporary luxury full service boutique resort on Grace Bay Beach. We are looking for driven and energetic professionals with Five Star experience and who are committed to achieving excellence by ensuring Five Star standards and services are continuously delivered.

Front Desk Manager

Applicant must have excellent communication and problem resolution and conflict management skills, at least 4 years experience in Luxury Hotel Front Desk with at least 2 years in management and maintain a presentable image consistent with the expectations of our clientele. Technical skills include Microsoft Office suite, Opera PMS and OVOS, training and coaching skills as well exceptional customer service and organizational skills. Hospitality Management certificate or equivalent experience required. English language required with additional languages an asset. The position requires flexibility in scheduling and the ability to handle confrontation and complaints with patience and diplomacy.

Interested applicants can contact our Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday 9am to 6pm on (649)9417555. E- Mail cover letter outlining your interest and supporting experience in a particular position along with your Resume or C.V. to hr@wymara.com

REQUIREMENTS: - Minimum 8 years experience in the General Insurance Industry and at least years at a Managerial level. Experience in Claims and Risk Management in Property, Casualty and Medical would be an asset. - ACII or its equivalent - Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent qualification would be an asset - Demonstrate requisite experience in managing Sales activities in a corporate environment. Experienced in analysing business needs - Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office and other related software - Must be able to effectively respond to Insurance Companies, Reinsurers, Brokers and Agents - Knowledgeable in all classes of Insurance and Insurance regulations both Local and Foreign, including the London markets - Must be able to effectively respond to Insurance Companies, Reinsurers, Brokers and Agents and handle multiple priorities. - Excellent skills in teamwork, leadership and communication - Excellent sales and marketing skills - Outstanding negotiation and interpersonal skills - Demonstrated success in building trust and maintaining long-term relationships OTHER DUTIES - Must be able to attend to on-call duties especially in emergency situations particularly during catastrophes Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. All suitably qualified persons interested in this exciting opportunity should email their Curriculum Vitae with full details of their experience, achievements and qualifications together with the names and contact details of two business references no later than May 23 2013 to : info@fgibtci.com Attn: Managing Director, First Global Insurance Brokers Limited P.O. Box 117, Caribbean Place, 1254 Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

9828


40

May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

Climate change is already affecting all of U.S., report says

Is seeking an

The climate change report released by the federal government Tuesday shows concerns for the effects climate change may have on the food supply. The report sketches out grim scenarios for different regions. The Northeast and Midwest, for instance, would see many more heavy downpours that

TEKORA PRATT Is looking for a

Domestic ELECTRICIAN Worker contact: 231-0561

9814

DOMESTIC WORKER REQUIRED • Experienced Live in Domestic Worker needed for busy household. • Salary is $ 900.00 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 260 Beatrice Butterfield Building Butterfield Square Providenciales

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 241-2179

THE SEAGATE MANAGEMENT

The Polio virus is transmitted through contaminated food and water, and multiplies in the intestine. It can then invade the nervous system, causing paralysis in one in every 200 infections. It is capable of causing death within hours.

World facing polio health emergency THE World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the spread of polio is an international public health emergency. Outbreaks in Asia, Africa and Middle East are an “extraordinary event” needing a co-ordinated “international response”, the agency says. It recommends citizens of affected countries travelling abroad carry a vaccination certificate. It says Pakistan, Cameroon, and Syria “pose the greatest risk of further wild poliovirus exportations in 2014.” The WHO recorded 417 cases of polio worldwide for the whole of 2013. For 2014, it had already recorded 68 cases by 30 April - up from 24 in the same period last year. Polio mainly affects children under five years old. The virus is transmitted through contaminated food and water, and multiplies in the intestine. It can then invade the nervous system, causing paralysis in one in every 200 infections. It is capable of

causing death within hours. “The conditions for a public health emergency of international concern have been met,” said Bruce Aylward, WHO Assistant Director General. He was speaking after last week’s emergency meeting in Geneva on the spread of polio which included representatives of the affected countries. “The international spread of polio to date in 2014 constitutes an ‘extraordinary event’ and a public health risk to other states for which a co-ordinated international response is essential,” the WHO’s International Health Regulations Emergency Committee said in statement. “If unchecked, this situation could result in failure to eradicate globally one of the world’s most serious vaccine preventable diseases.” The WHO also lists Afghanistan, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Iraq, Israel, Somalia and Nigeria as “posing an ongoing risk for new wild poliovirus exportations in 2014.”

9583

EBS

Is looking for the following persons:

Is looking for a

Is seeking a

MACKEY’S TIRE Is looking for a

TECHNICIAN

NEEDED Mason – $7.00 per hour

Domestic Worker – $5.00 per hour

Contact: 941-8185

9875

To work 6 days per week Monday – Saturday salary $8.00 per hour suitable applicant can

EDWARD ALBERT HIGGS

Santa Paula, Calif., cattle rancher Rob Frost inspects his dusty field in January, when it should have had 6 to 10 inches of grass for grazing. A federal government report on climate change projects that dry conditions will persist in California and other parts of the West. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

labourer To work 5 days

housekeeper

Tyre Repairman

contact: 243-7785

Contact: 247-1151

contact: 941-4440

per week salary $5.50 per hour.

To work 5 days per week.

9584

JP PLUMBING AND MECHANICAL

could lead to flooding and erosion. The Southwest, including California, would be more prone to extreme heat, drought and wildfire, while the Northwest could see a widespread tree die-off because of wildfire, insect outbreaks and disease. “Evidence of climate change appears in every region and impacts are visible in every state,” the report asserts, saying that a national infrastructure built to withstand “historical conditions” already is being overwhelmed by prolonged rains, rapid snowmelt and extreme heat. The assessment tackles head-on humanity’s contribution to climate change, the thorniest question tied to the issue and the heart of the debate that has deadlocked efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions. A variety of evidence confirms human activities have driven global warming over the last 50 years, the report concludes, citing specifically the emissions of

heat-trapping gases from the burning of coal, oil and natural gas. Arguments often used to deny that man-made climate change is occurring are dismissed in decisive language. The idea that warming temperatures have been caused by greater solar activity or volcanic eruptions, for example, is not supported by satellite data, the report states. A recent pause in the rise of global average land temperatures “appears to be related to cyclic changes in the oceans and in the sun’s energy output,” it says. The report’s message tracks closely with the Obama administration’s vow to push climate change near the top of the president’s agenda, after being criticized by supporters for neglecting it in his first term. The White House has worked over the last five years to curb greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles and, more recently, power plants. But in the last few months, the administration has gone a step further, launching initiatives meant to make preparing for climate change a backyard issue for Americans. “We want to emphasise to the public, this is not some distant problem of the future. This is a problem that is affecting Americans right now, whether it means increased flooding, greater vulnerability to drought, more severe wildfires,” President Obama said in a Rose Garden interview with Al Roker, weatherman for NBC’s “Today” show, one of a number of local and national TV weather forecasters invited for the report’s unveiling.

9804

CLIMATE change is already being felt in every region of the United States, resulting in hotter summers, shorter winters, extreme precipitation, even worsening allergies that will change the way Americans live, according to a government report released Tuesday. The National Climate Assessment, mandated by Congress and published every four years to guide policymakers, offers sobering details of climate change’s immediate effects. “The overall message is that climate change is happening right now — we can’t think of this as an issue for future generations,” said Radley Horton, one of the lead authors and a climate scientist at the Earth Institute’s Center for Climate Systems Research at Columbia University. “We know that the effects on ecosystems, infrastructure, economics and public health are going to grow.”

To work 5 days per salary $6.00 per hour.

9598

To work on financial equipment. Salary and benefits commensurate with experience please email resume to: techjobtci@gmail.com or mail to: TECH JOB TCI C/O Chalmers & Co. P.O. Box 620 Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands

9823


May 10 - 16, 2014

41

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports Interational Durant wins MVP ahead of James

In new biography, Jordan says he was racist growing up BASKETBALL Hall of Famer Michael Jordan says in a new book that he considered himself a racist growing up. In a new book entitled “Michael Jordan: The Life” by author Roland Lazenby, the five-time National Basketball Association most valuable player and current owner of the Charlotte Bobcats, says that as a teenager he was “against all white people.” Excerpts of the book published on Wednesday by the New York Post include Jordan describing how growing up in North Carolina during the 1970s, where he said the Klu Klux Klan thrived, helped shaped his views on racism. In one instance, Jordan recalls a school girl calling him the n-word. “So I threw a soda at her,” Jordan says in the book. “I was really rebelling. I considered myself a racist at the time. Basically, I was against all white people.”

It was after that incident that Jordan’s mother convinced him that he could not go through life consumed by racial hatred. Jordan, who went on to win six NBA titles with the Chicago Bulls, recently spoke out against racist remarks by Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling, who has since been banned for life by the NBA and could be forced to sell the team. “As an owner, I’m obviously disgusted that a fellow team owner could hold such sickening and offensive views,” Jordan said in a statement last month. “As a former player, I’m completely outraged. “I am appalled that this type of ignorance still exists within our country and at the highest levels of our sport. In a league where the majority of players are African-American, we cannot and must not tolerate discrimination at any level.” (Chicago Tribune)

James (891 points, six firstplace votes), the Los Angeles Clippers’ Blake Griffin (434 points), the Chicago Bulls’ Joakim Noah (322 points), and the Houston Rockets’ James Harden (85 points). The Warriors’ Stephen Curry finished sixth, receiving four third-place votes, nine fourth-place votes and 19 fifth-place votes for 66 total points. Chris Paul finished seventh. Durant’s consistency was highlighted by his streak of 41 consecutive games scoring at least 25 points, which ran from Jan. 7 through April 6, and was the longest streak since Michael Jordan did it in

Real Madrid named most valuable football team

REAL Madrid and Atletico Madrid will go head-tohead later this month to decide which football club is the finest in Europe but, when it comes to the bottom line, there is only one winner. The city rivals will battle it out in the Champions League final on May 24 in Lisbon, but Atletico look to have their work cut out given the financial disparity between the two clubs. Nine-time champions of Europe Real top a Forbes list of the world’s most valuable football teams, with Los Blancos reportedly worth $3.44 billion. The Santiago Bernabeu

stadium team, which boasts the talents of FIFA Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo, posted a revenue of $675 million for 201213, with an operating income of $172m. In contrast, Atletico is way down the the financial pecking order, with Forbes ranking Atletico 17th, valuing Los Rojiblancos at $328m. Even so Atletico are punching above their weight in the Spanish league title and with two matches two go, Diego Simeone’s Atletico team is top of the table -- three points ahead of secondplaced Barcelona and four points clear of Real in third.

Kevin Durant guided the Thunder to the NBA’s second-best record at 59-23.

40 straight games during the 1986-87 season. It’s the thirdlongest streak (single season) in NBA history, behind Wilt Chamberlain, who did it in all 80 games during the 1961-62 season, and Oscar Robertson, who went for 25-plus in 46 straight games during the 1963-64 season. Chamberlain did it for 106 straight games over the course of the 1961-62 and 1962-63 seasons. The winner of four Kia

NBA Player of the Month honors in 2013-14 (OctoberNovember, December, January and March), Durant was also named Player of the Week six times (Dec. 2, Dec. 30, Jan. 20, Jan. 27, Feb. 10 and March 24). The NBA MVP trophy is named in honor of the late Maurice Podoloff, the first commissioner of the NBA who served from 1946 until his retirement in 1963. (CSNBC)

LAS BRISAS RESTAURANT

MARCUS LIGHTBOURNE

Is looking for a

Acting on behalf of our clients Caribbean Nursery is looking for a

Caribbean Nursery

Labourer

Waiter To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

contact: 946-5306

9560

Michael Jordan said that as a teenager he was “against all white people”.

KEVIN Durant of the Oklahoma City Thunder is the 2013-2014 Kia NBA Most Valuable Player. He will collect the Maurice Podoloff Trophy the NBA announced on Tuesday. It is the first MVP award for Durant, who captured his fourth scoring title in five seasons, joining Wilt Chamberlain, George Gervin and Michael Jordan as the only players to accomplish this feat. Despite teammate Russell Westbrook appearing in only 46 games, Durant guided the Thunder to the NBA’s secondbest record at 59-23. Rounding out the top five in voting are Miami’s LeBron

Juliana Antigua

Wine Server M & L Amazing World

Domestic Worker contact: 242-0521

FLOWER GIRL

DOM DESIGN

CHEF DE PARTIE

is looking for a

• To work weekends, nights and holidays 6 days per week • Clean kitchen after service • Must have at least 8 years experience, good knowledge of sautéed seafood, shellfish, meat and poultry, grilling, rotisserie, butchery, sauces, broth and dressing

Sales Person

DISHWASHER

to work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

contact: 241-1242

Duties include all aspects of customer service, car rental sales and dealing with E-mail correspondence pertaining to car reservations. To work 5 days per week including weekends and holidays. Salary is commensurate with experience.

Contact telephone: 9831

Contact: 946-5278

9801

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour

SALES AGENT

946-5300

9600

Wanted urgently

Floral Designer

Must have thorough knowledge in the floral business with 3-5 years experience.

Call: 231-3788

9807


42

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 10 - 16, 2014

Sports Interational

Floyd Mayweather Jr. claims he’ll earn $70 million for “36 minutes” of work FLOYD Mayweather Jr. eked out a tough decision win over Argentinian upstart Marcos Maidana this past weekend, getting bloodied early but surviving 12 hard-fought rounds on the back of his unparalleled technical abilities and speed in the ring to improve to 46-0 in his career. His hard work was not for naught, however. In a tweet, Mayweather boasted that between his base purse of $32 million guaranteed and the to-becalculated pay-per-view revenues, he could end up earning $70 million for “36 minutes,” or the amount of time a 12-round championship boxing match runs. Financials aside, the boast is a little inaccurate in that boxers undergo grueling training for months leading up to a fight. Yet fighters at Mayweather’s level rarely have a match more than twice a year, so he is making a whole lot of money for relatively little time. And the latest financials are just one in a long string of eye-popping numbers from the highest-paid boxer in the sport’s history. While the guaranteed Maidana payout wasn’t anywhere near his biggest guaranteed purse -Mayweather set a record when he was guaranteed $41.5 million to fight

Tyson Gay received a one-year backdated ban after testing positive for a banned steroid. Marcos Maidana and Floyd Mayweather Jr. (right) exchange blows during their WBC/WBA welterweight unification fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 3, 2014, in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Harry How/Getty Images)

Saul Alvarez last year - his 2013 deal with Showtime has given him increased control over promotion and management of his events, thus making him more money on things like TV sales and promotion. The six-fight deal Showtime floated to lure him away from HBO is estimated to be worth around $200 million, according to Forbes. Maidana, meanwhile, was guaranteed a relatively piddling $1.5 million for the fight, but stands to make a decent cut of the pay-perview numbers himself. Mayweather’s incredible haul from his fights have put him in elite status among the world’s top-earning

athletes, and given him a voice on the public stage that few modernday boxers enjoy. At the height of the Donald Sterling scandal, he told CBS News he not only wants to buy the disgraced L.A. Clippers’ owner’s team, he has some changes he would make if he succeeds. “How I would run the Clippers is, I would treat the staff fair, all the employees fair, and I would also treat the fans fair,” said Mayweather. As rich as he may be, the Clippers are expected to fetch around $600 million dollars if the league succeeds in forcing a sale. Mayweather said he’s got friends who should be able to help him buy it.

Louis van Gaal wants Manchester United manager’s job LOUIS van Gaal has told BBC Sport he wants to become the new manager of Manchester United. The 62-year-old Netherlands boss has been the overwhelming favourite for the role since the dismissal of David Moyes on 22 April. “I would love the job,” said Van Gaal. “I hope that I shall be the one. It’s the biggest club in the world and it’s a fantastic challenge.” It is anticipated United will confirm the appointment early next week. Van Gaal was speaking at the start of a three-day World Cup training camp. With Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola and his Borussia Dortmund counterpart Jurgen Klopp apparently out of the running, interim boss Ryan Giggs deemed too inexperienced and Carlo Ancelotti’s position at Real Madrid made more secure by the Spanish giants reaching the Champions League final, Van Gaal has become the front-runner. Yet the Dutchman is refusing to accept the job is his. Referring to the media, he said: “You are thinking I’m the man, but the most important thing is whether

The 62-year-old Netherlands boss van Gaal has been the overwhelming favourite for the role since the dismissal of David Moyes on 22 April.

Manchester United are thinking that. “You have to wait and see what the club decides. It’s always a process and you have to wait for the process. The press are always too fast.” Van Gaal will not be free to join United until after the World Cup. He made it clear on Wednesday he is not willing to allow discussion over his future to interfere with his

plans for Brazil, having failed to qualify for the 2002 tournament in his first spell with the Netherlands. “I have to focus on my job,” he said. “I am coach of the Dutch national team. I have waited a long time to be in a World Cup, so that’s very important. “This doesn’t affect me. I have always had offers. I know what the football world is and what it means.” United had already ruled out any formal announcement this week. That timescale may have something to do with a planned meeting on Friday between Giggs and executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward. Giggs has yet to accept any coaching position with the Old Trafford outfit and has still not decided whether he will extend his playing career by another year. The 40-year-old Welshman has already ruled out the possibility of playing for another club. That could mean Tuesday’s appearance against Hull at Old Trafford - his 963rd appearance for his United - could turn out to be his last. (BBC)

Jamieson says Tyson Gay drug ban lenient OLYMPIC swimming silver medallist Michael Jamieson says American sprinter Tyson Gay has been treated lightly over his failed drug test. The former world 100m champion, 31, received a oneyear backdated ban after testing positive for a banned steroid. His ban was shorter as he cooperated with the US Anti-Doping Agency (Usada). “An athlete can take certain cold remedies and face serious suspensions,” Jamieson said. “Yet he fails tests for testosterone and is banned for a year.” Writing on Twitter, the 2012 Olympic 200m breaststroke silver-medallist, 25, added:

“Testosterone isn’t taken by mistake. National governing bodies have too much say in the length of suspension. “This story lets us know that there is no real desire to tackle doping.” The former 100m and 200m world champion, who could have faced a two-year ban, is eligible to return next month, and can also compete in future Olympics and World Championships. His suspension has been backdated to 23 June 2013, the date he tested positive at the US World Championship trials. That was one of three tests Gay failed, with two taken out of competition.

PSG’s players celebrate after clinching the league title for the second season in succession.

Paris Saint-Germain wins French title WITHOUT even needing to kick a ball, Paris Saint-Germain was confirmed as champion of France Wednesday. PSG was crowned winners for the second season in succession following Monaco’s 1-1 draw against Guingamp. The result left PSG with an unassailable seven point lead and sparked wild celebrations before the team’s game at Parc des Princes. Monaco had appeared set for victory when Dimitar Berbatov headed home in the 77th minute only for the visiting side to level through

Fatih Atik. With the title wrapped up, PSG appeared to take its foot of the gas against Rennes -- losing 2-1 after taking an early lead through Ezequiel Lavezzi. The visitors hit back through Foued Kadir and Paul-Georges Ntep to snatch victory. Defender Alex had a great opportunity to equalize late on but his effort hit the crossbar. PSG, which had already won the League Cup earlier in the season, has led the league title race since it thrashed Bastia 4-0 in October.


May 10 - 16, 2014

43

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports National Josh for Sports

Visionless, complacency and stubbornness = annihilation

IF I were the only voice crying out in the wilderness for “change from your go-no-where pre-historic approach towards national track and field” and nobody responded to my cries, then I would have had to totally re-access the substance of what I’m crying about.

WHAT IF MY CRIES ARE ECHOED? On the other hand if there are a total of at least four internationally accomplished athletes, all schooled at the highest level (university) and all who graduated from one of the top academic secondary educational institution in the history of Jamaica (Munro College), sharing among themselves some 30 GCE O’Levels

trend that besets our present and future place in the world of regional and international sports.

By Joshua Gardiner

and a desired need to see positive change, then change is almost certainly needed. And if after all this the authorities responsible for change do not pay heed, then it’s time to sack those who are responsible for this regressive

TIME FOR A CHANGE It’s time for a total change of the way we in this talented nation see and administrate athletics in the TCI. The four horsemen · Does it not strike you all as exceptionally odd that the Munro College four horsemen are all TC Islanders? · Does it not strike you as odd that the space of time between the first and last of these legends to graduate from Munro is about half a century (46 years to be exact)? · Does it not strike you as odd that all four of these Munro

·

· ·

·

College TCI horsemen were and are now legendary national high school champions in Jamaica—a fact that history itself cannot change? Does it not strike you as odd that before 2014 has expired that all four horsemen would have competed in at least one Commonwealth Games each? Are you surprised that all of these horsemen accomplishments (international) can be googled? Are you surprised that the four horsemen are Obed Gardiner (Josh for Sports), Delano Williams, Ifeanyi Otuonye and Angelo Garland? Are you surprised that Teray Smith, one of our past stars also

joins in the call for change? Do you not find it as odd that the sporting authorities don’t give two hoots about our international experiences, love for TCI and athletics and certainly don’t listen to our advice? · Do you know that if it were not foreign programmes (in other countries) we would have never accomplished what we did! · Do you know that nobody in the TCAAA have accomplished what we have? We need change; we are too skilled a people, please let’s put ego aside and do what’s right for the development of sports in this great land of ours. So long for now, love Josh ·

“Race for the Conch” has become a premier water event in the TCI.

“Race for the Conch” and Windvibes Watersports tournament set for early July – New ½ mile “Paddle for the Conch” to be introduced this year TWO fun-filled, back-to-back Provo sporting events: The “Race for the Conch” Eco-SeaSwim and Windvibes Watersports Tournament will splash into the TCI in the first weekend of July (5th and 6th), 2014. The weekend kicks off with the 5th annual “Race for the Conch” Eco-SeaSwim on Saturday morning (July 5th) at the beach in front of Rickie’s Flamingo Cafe on Grace Bay Beach. The well-established and internationally recognised openwater race gives residents and visitors a spectacular venue to compete for a conch trophy or challenge themselves to do a personal best. IRONMAN DISTANCE At 8 am, a hardy band will go for

the 2.4 mile “Ironman” distance, followed by the 1 mile and 1/2 mile races beginning at 10 am. For the 1 mile race, several local resorts will be putting together three-person teams to compete for the prestigious “Resort Cup” with the best combined times. All race finishers get a conch shell medal made by local artist Stanford Handfield. At 9 am, the always exciting 100 metres Children’s Swim for youngsters age 11-and-under takes place. PADDLE FOR THE CONCH Following the swim events, Race Directors Ben Stubenberg and Chloe Zimmermann are introducing a new

1/2 mile “Paddle for the Conch” stand-up paddle board (SUP) race using the swim marker buoys. Start is at 11:15 am. SUP participants can register on the day of the swim race. They can bring their own boards or rent one on the beach. All race participants must checkin on the beach one hour before their event. The swim race awards ceremony starts at 7 pm, and is immediately followed by the Opening Party for Windvibes 2014 at 8 pm, both at Rickie’s Flamingo Cafe. WINDVIBES WATERSPORTS On Sunday (July 6), the 8th annual

Windvibes Watersports Tournament starts at 10am on Long Bay Beach. The allday event will feature four main competitions: kiteboarding, stand up paddling, kayaking, and swimming. Each competition will be split into separate events for men, women, and children. Says Hope LeVin, Windvibes founder, “All events are amateur, and it’s not about who won, but who had the most fun!” Prizes include medals and gift certificates. Spectators on the beach can enjoy music by DJ Dayoh, food by The Market, and a selection of beach games,

including volley ball, tug-of-war, big foot walking, and log throwing. A fleet of kayaks and Naish stand up paddle boards, courtesy of Big Blue Unlimited, will be available for spectators and families to freely use during lull-times between competitions. Event organisers want everyone to come out and use these two great events to experience the water lifestyle. Swim race registration sheet can be picked up at Marco Travel in Grace Bay. More information on the swim race and on-line registration is available at website www.ecoseaswim.com. Blue Haven Resort is the official event hotel for Windvibes 2014 and is offering a special rate for event participants.


44

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 10 - 16, 2014

KB Homes made a good start to their T20 season when they successfully chased 213 runs for victory.

TCICA T20 Cricket Competition:

Schultz’s blitz propels KB Homes to record-breaking run chase RANALD Schultz scored a cyclone-like 90 to steer his team KB Homes to the biggest T20 run chase on record in the TCI when action in the Turks and Caicos Islands Cricket Association (TCICA) T20 Cricket competition got underway at the Downtown Ball Park in Providenciales last Sunday. In a game full with excitement KB Homes won the toss and inserted Kishco to bat. A team effort by the batting side propelled them to a whopping 213-7 from their 20 overs. Pawan Kumar stroked 38 runs (7X4s), while Vasau Rao added 37 (6X4s and 1X6) and Lloyd Lynch 35 (6X4s). Bowling for KB Homes Paul McKenzie took 2-37 runs, Paul Slattery finished with 2-41 and

Schultz claimed 2-49 all from their allotted four overs. SAVAGE KB Homes had to score at a whopping 10.7 runs per over, and Schultz batting at number four was up to the task. He scored at a strike rate of 225 with 76 runs reaching

014 Church Co-ed Softball League:

St. Monica breeze past Paradise Baptist Church DEFENDING champions of the Provo Church Co-ed Slow Pitch Softball League St. Monica Anglican Church continued their dominance

PwC Inter-Schools Rugby Championships set for Saturday ENTHUSIASTIC Under-15s and Under-18s ruggers will get a chance to showcase their skills this Saturday when the TCIRFU holds the PwC sponsored InterSchool Rugby Championships at the Meridian Field. The U-15 competition, which is scheduled to take place from 9:30h to 12:30h, will see Clement Howell High School, the British West Indies Collegiate, the TCI Middle School and Wesley Methodist battling for supremacy. The U-18 competition (from

or crossing the boundary. His 90 runs, which included seven fours and eight sixes, were scored in just 40 balls. The technically correct Gareth Butler also played his part as he added 42 (6X4s) while Vickram John chipped in with 20 runs (4X4s). Bowling for Kishco Kumar took 3-38 from his four overs.

11:30h-14:00h) will see all the Provo schools listed above and the visiting Raymond Gardiner and HJ Robinson clashing. Following the school competition the national U-19 rugby squad, from which a team will be selected to defend their Caribbean International Trophy Division title they won last year in Trinidad and Tobago, will play an inter-squad contact game. On Friday night the U-19 players, from most of the islands, will have a training session with the TCIRFU.

with a 10-0 win over Paradise Baptist Church when action continued last Thursday at the National Stadium. Paradise restricted the defending champs to just one run at the bottom of the first, but at the bottom of the second, the flood gates opened and St. Monica scored nine consecutive runs. The eventual losers needed to score at the top of the third to fend off the ten run rule, and despite two on bases, a run was not scored forcing the flawless win. Also on Thursday last Jericho Baptist Church defeated the Roman Catholic Church in a thriller. The Roman Catholics had the early 5-3 lead and had maintained it at the end of four innings, Jericho had however managed to tie the game 5-5 at the bottom of the fifth to force an extra innings. Roman Catholic Church could not score in the extra innings despite having two players on base. The game however ended at the bottom of the sixth innings when Darwin Martinez hit a ball in centre field and the loaded base managed to score the needed run.

Ifeanyi Otuonye feels he can jump at least 7.60M next weekend at the Big XII Conference.

Otuonye eyes another national record at Big XII Conference IFEANYI Otuonye feels a special jump will take place next weekend when he competes in the Big XII Conference, the ultimate showdown of his outdoor season. Despite breaking his national long jump record in Arizona at the Jim Click Shootout, the Kansas State University student felt that he had more than 7.44M in the tank. “I jumped the 7.44M on my 3rd jump. I insisted to my coach that I continue to jump because I felt like a bigger jump was in me, but it never came; I fouled most of the rest. But that’s how confident I was.”

His new aim is at least 7.60M. “I feel I can go at least 7.60M-7.75M by the end of the season if things go well and that will be a big accomplishment for me.” At last year’s Big XII Outdoor Championships Otuonye jumped 7.39M which was his previous national record. This year he has allocated the last two weeks to train for the event and is hoping that he can continue where he left off in Arizona. The 19-yearold sophomore, who has become an invaluable relay runner for his school, is also scheduled to compete in the 4X100M and the 4X400M races.


May 10 - 16, 2014

Sports National

45

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Forbes signs with San Antonio Scorpions – Pays homage to the TCIFA and Coach Smith NATIONAL footballer Billy Forbes has signed a year-and-a-half contract with the San Antonio Scorpions to play in the North American Soccer League (NASL). The talented 22-year-old, who is likely to play off the bench for the Scorpions this Saturday, said he was humbled with the signing. OWE EVERYTHING He acknowledged that he has only reached this position because of the hard work of the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA); he singled out coach and executive member Oliver Smith as his mentor. “It just reminded me when I was playing back home (in the TCI) years ago and it took one person to believe in me and my dreams and that was Oliver (Smith) and he sent me to school; now I’m almost done with school and my other dream has come

true—I have a pro contract. “I don’t think I can repay either the TCIFA or Oliver for everything they have done for me; since I can’t repay them I owe them everything.” DOMINANCE Smith secured a scholarship for Forbes in 2010 to attend the Western Texas College and Forbes did not waste his opportunity, the versatile forward who played for the national team four times made the all American team twice, he scored 26 goals and was voted as a top five junior college player in the USA, he then moved on the Lubbock Christian University (LCU) and continued his dominance. He scored 40 goals in two seasons and became the leading all-time goal scorer for the LCU. He was also the first NCAA All American for LCU since the school moved to division two and was voted as Conference Player

PABA Night League final:

of the Year. PUTTING TCI ON THE MAP The humble Forbes, although pressing forward, has not forgotten his roots. “Being from the smallest and the most beautiful islands in the world I know hard work will get me anywhere early, so I’m here to put my country TCI and my city Providenciales on the map. I can’t wait to be back home soon and play for my national team and get a few wins for my country.” Forbes has two classes of university left and he has decided to finish them during his professional stint. In the future the young man hopes to get a MLS contract or one from Europe. “The sky is the limit,” he said. Turks Islanders can keep up with Forbes on Twitter: @bforbes7

Stallions and Flyers set to battle again THE GT Stallions will look to retain their Provo Amateur Basketball Association (PABA) Night League title when action in the best-in-five finals gets underway this weekend at the Gus Lightbourne Sports Complex court. Standing in their way will be former champions the Five Cays Flyers. Both teams reached the championship round after knocking out their opponents last weekend. The Stallions, who were only beaten for the second time this season bounced back to defeat the Police Badgers 62-57 in the deciding game-three clash. In that game Kino Williams led the attack with 19 points while Tamaurri Lightbourne (last season’s MVP) added 17 points and six boards. Sandro Germain led the Lawmen with 17 points and 10 rebounds. The Stallions were able to restrict Skip Lawerence (who had scored a whopping seven three-pointers in the second game) to just two three pointers.

Billy Forbes was humbled after signing the year-and-a-half contract with the Scorpions.

NACRA Caribbean Championships:

TCIRFU names 23 for Jamaica clash THE TCIRFU has named a strong 23-man squad to compete in Ewarton, Jamaica next Saturday in the first clash of the NACRA Caribbean Championships North Zone Cup Division. The much anticipated clash is the first of three games for the TCI, with Bahamas scheduled to travel for a May 31st showdown before next month’s clash with Mexico in Mexico. The top finisher of the four teams will play against the lowest ranked of the championship teams (USA South, Bermuda and the Cayman Islands) in

September this year for the chance of promotion to the 2015 Championship Division. The squad which is led by Sean O’Neill, also includes: Gareth Butler, Mark DeFraine, Mark Francis, Neil French, Bjorn Griffith, Nikolas Hight, Callis Jones, Miguel Malcolm, Paul McKenzie, Terrico Misick, Jahmal Misick, Augustin Modeste, Franco Mompremier, Lincoln Outten, Jesse Owen, Andino Parker, Joseph Ryan, Andrew Seymour, Simon Taylor, Alisteir Turbyfield, Luis Turbyfield and Alyx Williams.

In the other semi-finals Harbour Boys (the other team to have beaten the Stallions this season) could not get past the Flyers who used their speed, scored their free-throws and minimised their turnovers in the 6451 point win. South shot 7-17 from the one-point line, while the Flyers made 12 of 18. The Flyers’ Steve Bras and Anthony Cash finished with eight points each while former Flyers Dorado Fullford made 13 for HB. RIVALS Flyers will need to exorcise their demons if they are to regain the championship spoils. One season ago they were up 3-1 in the best in seven series, before Stallions regain their wind and stomped their way to the finish line. Flyers will need to use their speed and retain their composure against the Stallions, who have been known to dominate the paint. Action begins this Friday from 19:00h and entrance fee to the venue is $5.

Flyers will need their ‘A’ game against defending champions the GT Stallions.


46

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 10 - 16, 2014

LAND FOR SALE In beautiful Bottle Creek, North Caicos

.46 acres overlooking the creek, spanning King Road and Windsor Road

QUICK SALE

CALL 232-3508 or 946-4664


May 10 - 16, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

47


48

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 10 - 16, 2014


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.