TCWN May 24-30, 2014

Page 1

Weekly News Volume 28 | No. 21 | May 24 - 30, 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

Gov’t credit rating begins

The first step in refinancing the Government’s multi-million dollar UK guaranteed loan has begun with the appointment of PAGE  5 global rating agency Standard & Poor’s (S&P).

Key West Village opens with grand celebration Lillian tells Akierra to ‘shut up’ in parliament PAGE  4

PDM recommends halting business licence increases PAGE  5

PAGE 

24

Huge increase in tourist arrivals so far this year PAGE  8


2

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 24 - 30, 2014


May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

3


4

May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Lillian Misick, Governor’s Appointed Member in the House of Assembly

Minister of Education, Akierra Missick

Lillian tells Akierra to ‘shut up’ in parliament – Stern warning issued by Speaker AN ANGRY outburst in parliament led the Speaker of the House of Assembly to sternly scold rule-breakers this week. On Tuesday (May 20) Robert Hall disciplined members after Governor’s female appointed member Lillian Misick vented heated opinions the evening before. During the meeting on Monday (May 19) Misick was responding to a none too subtle jab by the Minister of Education in response to a suggestion she made. The whole debacle was broadcast live on Radio Turks and Caicos 107.7. Members were in the committee stage of the house discussing the Rehabilitation of Offenders Bill 2014 when the fracas occurred. The Governor’s appointed member made a point concerning the eight-year rehabilitation time for offenders who had served between two to three years in prison.

She was advocating for a shorter rehab time for these offenders as the eight years seemed excessive. However, in response to this, Education Minister Akierra Missick showed little or no respect to the other member’s suggestion in statements she made. When she was finished, the Governor’s appointed member rose to voice her displeasure that her suggestions are being given short shrift and disrespected by the minister. The member pointed out that everyone had the same right to offer their suggestions, whether they were appointed or elected members of the house. She then went on to heatedly refer to the minister as “that girl” and that she should “shut up as she (Lillian) is an appointed member of the house”. Chairman of the house, Josephine Connolly attempted to calm the frazzled nerves, as the radio feed was cut off.

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

On resumption, she asked the two members to apologise to each other, but no apologies were traded. The appointed member outright refused to apologise, and further reiterated her stance. She said she would do no such thing as she was not proposing a motion, but was trying to get the members to see her point of view and how passionate she was about it. However, the minister offered what could be called a peace keeping compromise and accepted that the member would not apologise to her. The discussion of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Bill resumed, minus the sparks. But on resumption of the house meeting the following day, Speaker Robert Hall voiced his displeasure with the conduct of the members. He said it was unparliamentary and should not be tolerated. “I refer to rule 22, 5 of the Standing Orders of the House, ‘it shall be out of order to use offensive and insulting language about members of the house’. “Rule 32, 1 and 5 of the same order state ‘a member while present in the chamber viewing a debate must at all times conduct themselves with dignity and decorum, must maintain silence, except when called upon by the chair.’” He further reminded them to be respectful of each other and to abide by the Standing Orders of the House. “Let there be no repetition of such conduct as I will definitely take much stronger action,” Hall said. He also warned all members not be on their computers all day when the house is in session, noisily clicking away on their keyboards and distracting the assembly. (DI)


May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

Credit rating process begins

THE FIRST step in refinancing the Government’s multi-million dollar UK guaranteed loan has begun with the appointment of global rating agency Standard & Poor’s (S&P). Members of the company are currently in the Turks and Caicos Islands conducting assessments with various Government and nonGovernmental bodies. TCIG is expected to receive its first credit rating sometime this summer. Earlier this year, the Government was considering Fitch or Moody’s to conduct the exercise, both of which, as well as S&P, are highly rated and reputable agencies. It is the Government’s hope that once the rating is published, the country can start to rebuild its reputation with the international finance markets to obtain a refinancing package on the best terms available come 2016. Credit ratings are forward-looking opinions about credit risk. Standard & Poor’s credit ratings express the agency’s opinion about the ability and willingness of an issuer, such as a corporation or state or city government, to meet its financial obligations in full and on time. The Premier, the Minister of Finance and a number of other officials have already met with representatives, and on Thursday (May 22) members of the Opposition also met with them. When contacted, Deputy Leader of the PDM, Sean Astwood said he and the party chairman, Clarence Selver met with the representatives for discussions that were largely centered on the current state of affairs in the country. “These included the economy, immigration, independence and what the PDM would currently be doing differently if we were the Government and what changes we would make to the current financial framework if we were to become the Government during the next election circle,” Astwood said. He added that there was frank and open dialogue on every topic and the representatives were referred

to a number of position papers that the party had published, namely its position on value added tax (VAT), independence and the constitution. “We look forward to the country getting its first credit rating and will do our part for the country to one day achieve AAA rating,” the deputy leader said. When contacted, Minister of Finance, Washington Misick said the reps asked a series of important questions and he answered to the best of his abilities. However, he was a bit cautious about expanding on what the questions were, as he said he does not want to appear like he is attempting to influence the outcome. He said the S&P representatives would be meeting with members of the business community, stakeholders and senior public servants, among others. Misick said that the Government has to wait and see what the result of the examination is – which is hopefully favourable - then the Government can continue to move forward with its financing and debt restructuring efforts. As posted on the S&P website, credit ratings can also speak to the credit quality of an individual debt issue, such as a corporate note, a municipal bond or a mortgagebacked security, and the relative likelihood that the issue may default. Typically, ratings are expressed as letter grades that range from ‘AAA’ to ‘D’ to communicate an agency’s opinion of relative level of credit risk. Meanwhile, the Government is continuing its sensitisation exercise on its tax and refinancing strategies with stakeholders. Last Friday (May 16), the Premier and ministers, along with the S&P representatives met with Opposition members and other stakeholders in the NJS Francis building in Grand Turk. Presentations were made on how the original $260 million loan guarantee was calculated in 2011. According to a press statement from the Premier’s office, the money went towards repaying $77.9 million

in inherited TCIG bank loans, repaying the $48.1 million short term loans from the Department for International Development’s (DFID) which were used to fund government salaries, repaying $33.8 million in unpaid bills, $400,000 in refinancing fees, and to provide TCIG with a $4.8 million cash float. The loan also made allowances for potentially refinancing old high interest bonds in the amount of $30 million, as well as the projected 2011/2012 deficit of $32 million and some headroom of $28 million, taking the total available debt under the guarantee to $260 million. The TCI has drawn on $179 million of this facility to date, the release advised. Government has already paid $58 million into the sinking fund which will be used to pay bond holders, leaving a net guaranteed debt today

of $121 million. “Through the TCI Government’s continued good governance and new revenue measures it is hoped to have between $80 to $100 million in the sinking fund by 2016, leaving $80 to 100 million of debt that requires to be refinanced,” the statement read. Members were also informed that without the UK guarantee no lenders were prepared to offer financing to the TCI. The interest rates of between 0.5 per cent and 3.2 per cent were lower than those that TCI had previously been able to access independently thus saving the country millions of dollars between the years 2011 and 2016. “Our proposed revenue measures will be used to ensure that the TCI runs a budget surplus, which in addition to helping to pay down the debt, demonstrates to the global

finance community that the TCI is a well governed, responsible nation, that they can lend to with confidence,” Minister Misick is quoted in the statement. He added that this is why the Government welcomes the joint approach of the Government and the Opposition in tackling the debts promptly and prudently. Asked to gauge the discussion, the PDM deputy leader the party found the presentations on the tax rationalisation strategy and sovereign rating exercise to be useful. However, Astwood said the party was not impressed with the Government’s business plans. He said the business reform strategy lacked specifics and read like a political party’s manifesto rather than a Government plan of action entering into its third year of governing. (DI)

PDM recommends halting business licence increases

“WE RECOMMEND that in the interest of a stable business environment, businesses in the country be allowed to operate under the current fees and categories until a proper study is conducted to determine the impact the proposed changes will have on the economy.” The People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) made this announcement on Thursday (May 22) and released its findings and recommendations to the proposed business licence changes by the Government. The party wants a thorough review of the financial cost of the new business licences and the reserve and restricted categories. In a press statement, the party set out its current position in detail.

“As a result of the economic down turn in the economy over the past five years coupled with the slow growth of the United States economy, on which we strongly depend, the proposed increases to business licence scheduled to be implemented on July 1, 2014, is untimely and will definitely have a negative impact on the business environment.” The party states that presently, most if not all businesses have seen a drastic reduction in gross revenue and have not been able to recoup the losses experienced over the past few years, and as such the majority are still cash strapped. New start-ups will view the new fees as a barrier to entry especially in the professional fields, the PDM believes. The party stated that the new structure would cause a

5

multiplication of licences, as businesses that were conducting multiple activities under the same licence will now have to obtain an additional licence for each business activity. Businesspersons, such as taxi and tour operators will now have to obtain a taxi licence and a tour licence. “While we accept that some types of business licences fees needed to be increased, significant increases in fees such as seen in the professional fields of accountants, architects and lawyers from $675 to $5,400 is unreasonable. “The commercial space rental licence is a one size fits all approach, that is, a two-story building in Blue Hills will pay the continued 

7


6

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 24 - 30, 2014

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

Do NPOs need strict controls?

LAST week we reported that the country’s non-profit organisations (NPOs) have until July 31 to register all their details with the Financial Services Commission. Education bodies, watchdog groups, animal rights societies and health protection agencies are among those that are being asked to prove they are open, accountable and transparent. Compliance with new legislation is designed to ensure that NPOs are not being used for money laundering, the financing of terrorism or proliferation financing. But the country’s NPO members say that they were never consulted over the new rules and many consider them unnecessary, an added expense and far too strict. What are your thoughts? Do you think laws should be in place to oversee NPOs? Should members have been consulted about the new rules? Have the lawmakers gone too far?

Ridiculous and expensive

The legislation is ludicrous and insulting to the many charitable volunteers in this country. It brings the Financial Services Commission into serious disrepute in the eyes of the public. While the FSC claim to have had no input in the legislation, they are kicking local charities in the teeth by imposing ridiculous and expensive obligations. Why should charities have a heavier burden then real businesses? These insane laws were brought in by the British administration they can be changed by our locally elected politicians if only they can give this some priority ahead of raising taxes. There is nothing wrong in legislating pertinent and sensible rules after consultation with the charities.

No over regulation

The law describes the limits of what NPOs can do. Why regulate further? Over regulation

spells death for all organisations. Big government is death to industry including the activities of these non-profit groups. The problem is oversight. The past proves we cannot rely on this Government, the Integrity Commission or the Financial Services Commission.

Prove you’re clean

All I would say is if you say that the white shirt is clean then there should be no problem in proving the it is spot free, if you know what I mean. It is time for the whole system to pass through the washing machine, hangers and all.

Bossing God around

The NGO would be for the large part the churches. Now according to the Bible the church leader’s job is to run shotgun on the Government. When the Government fails to uphold prompt, impartial justice, stand up for the little man, and deal with oppressor forces, it is the righteous church leaders who must stand for

Vandals stop Gov’t from trapping stray dogs NONE of the Government’s dog traps are in working order following a spate of vandalism during a recent stray dog trapping programme. Nearly 30 traps have been destroyed, stolen or damaged in the past year alone, a press release from the Department of Agriculture stated. The programme, which is designed to reduce the number of stray and feral dogs in the TCI, has now been suspended due to the expense of replacing the traps – which cost $400 each. “The programme aims to reduce the risk to life and property as a result of accidents or public health issues resulting from disease or bites,” the release stated. It went on to say that it is “unforgiveable that the very residents who complain about stray dogs are the culprits who destroy the Government’s property so willingly and with

disregard for the possible impacts strays can have on public health and the country’s tourism product.” In response to public requests, the Department of Agriculture has employed more humane and innovative ways to control strays. In addition to the special traps, the Government is collaborating with animal welfare groups to hold spay and neuter clinics and to educate the public on responsible pet ownership and care. The Government’s chief veterinarian Dr Mark Butler urged residents to report the acts of vandalism to the Department of Agriculture and the police. “The department also takes the opportunity to remind residents to become responsible animal owners by ensuring that their dogs are spayed or neutered, licenced and kept on their property.”

these matters and put down strict controls on the Government using the word of God. What we see here is the exact opposite in that the Government is putting down strict controls on the very bodies that God has called to police the Government. I would say that this is happening because the church leaders do not have the guts to fight and uphold God’s holy word, so the Government instead of fearing them and the God they serve is getting brave and trying to boss them and their God around.

Wrong target

These new measures by the Financial Services Commission and its managing director, Kevin Higgins, signal a number of things wrong with the commission. If this is how the international financial reporting system is designed then we are really in trouble. It has more to do with implementation and competence than anything else. Higgins does not know how to separate good from bad. Imagine churches, assemblies of God, houses of worship, all things that we deem Christian are treated in the same way as those charities which are established to further crime, hide terrorist money and get away with murder. There are many charities, set up in law firms, trust companies, company management firms which are established to hide things and the international reporting system was established to combat that activity. The same cannot apply to churches, houses of worship, the Red Cross, Salvation Army.

Faulty focus

I do not think that all these proposed strict financial compliances which the FSC has legislated/designed for NPOs should have been imposed on such groups without proper consultation. Such legislation for groups will definitely increase operational costs and the people who groups offer services to will have to make adjustments to their way of living - cost of living will go up for people who are already struggling and that is not fair. Not all organisations are crooked and or have crooks in their operations. Requirements can be met without high legal and added operational costs that we now have to go through. One bad apple does not spoil the whole bunch, and that looks like how the FSC is thinking. Most NPOs are struggling to stay alive and adding undue costs to operate and meet FSC standards is overbearing and some will crumble under such weights. Some re-consideration needed to be made for NPOs. Why have no criminal charges been brought against the operators and or the board of governors of TCI Bank by the FSC? Shouldn’t that be where the focus should be placed by the FSC?

Bad, bad, bad

Treating local charities like the real money scam charities set up by law firms is bad. It shows the inability of the Financial Services Commission to know how to regulate just about anything. Are they saying that the Heart Foundation

or the Cancer Foundation, which we can see, need to be regulated in the same way as an ‘offshore foundation’ which is just registered with a lawyer’s office but where we can’t see? No, but this is what the regulations mean. Adding insult to injury, there is misconceived reading of the regulations on the part of the commission. Without consultation, seeing the other side, builds a model of dictatorship for these Islands where we just take what they shove at us. How can they do this? The commission is fast at it to shut the TCI down. Ministers must stand up. This is bad law, bad policy and bad for the TCI.

Misreading rules

The new regulations dealing with spying and micromanaging non-profit organisations are overkill. One can understand global initiatives designed to combat money laundering, yes, but what this commission is doing is misreading those rules and using them to shut businesses down. The new rules, as they are being implemented, will destroy the spirit of helping and giving back to one’s community. It is like the Financial Services Commission is on a rampage to destroy all that’s good about any community. They want to get into the pockets of churches and charitable schools and this is deadly. Most recently the commission published the names of businesses that are behind on business names payments. Legitimate businesses can only be destroyed by this childish prank on the part of the commission which will achieve their objectives being to embarrass, hurt, destroy and hamper business development. The Government and the Opposition needs to take a serious and immediate look at the commission.

Typical and classic

Why are we so surprised? Best legislation in this case, hopefully is not only intended to protect national security and interest but compliance to international practices and laws. For that, I applaud the Government. Yes I agree with the need to register but NPOs once registered are like individuals with rights and responsibilities and so, accordingly, must be subjected to best practiced laws. Leaders of the NPOs should had been consulted as they are the operatives and stakeholders, and most definitely are the ones affected. Respect is to us all, even to the least. In this instance not only have the members of parliament gone too far but they are acting as if they are the only ones who know any and everything, now, even for NPOs! Selfconceited and a sign of contempt. This behaviour is typical and classic here in the TCI, and should be tempered.

 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 24 - 30, 2014

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

7

Hospital healthcare review has begun AN AUDIT of healthcare services in the country’s two hospitals finally got underway this week. The in depth investigation will look into the clinical services provided for the past four years by InterHealth Canada and highlight areas in need of improvement. Minister of Health and Human Services Porsha Stubbs Smith made the announcement during her ministerial address in the House of Assembly on Monday (May 19). She explained that it is being conducted by Australian health service advisors Hardes and Associates in collaboration with clinical epidemiologist Dr James Marzolf. “The aim is to allow quality improvement to take place where it will be most helpful and will improve outcomes for patients,” she said. InterHealth Canada has been a source of considerable controversy since it was awarded the contract to build and manage TCI’s two hospitals in 2008. Concerns included a contract

that was withheld from the public, the high cost of healthcare and the immense price of construction. Prior to the general elections in November 2011 the PNP promised that reviews of both the financial operation and clinical services would take place if they were elected. But it was not until March 2013 that international auditors KPMG commenced a financial audit of InterHealth Canada’s operations in the TCI while the clinical audit was continuously delayed. This week Stubbs Smith explained that the much anticipated review began this month and is being carried out by consultants with “substantial experience in this field”. The clinical audit is a contractual requirement of the public private partnership between the Government and InterHealth Canada. Its purpose is to review clinical services provided by the hospitals as mandated in the project agreement. “Clinical audits are used to measure and improve the quality of care delivered based upon

PDM recommends halting business ... continued from 

5

same $2,000 licence fee as IGA. “Manufacturing related licences like bottling and canning operations should carry a low fee to encourage start-ups.” The party noted that discrepancies between categories of licences also need to be addressed. They further questioned the rationale of the stevedoring monopoly paying only $540 for a business licence while a single lawyer is paying ten times that rate for their licence. Reserve and restricted categories The Opposition also gave a list of the businesses that they believe should be in the reserve and restricted categories. They also believe that the function of business licencing is a regulatory one and should not be used as a means of generating revenue; as such, the Government should model a system to reflect this. An existing model might be that of the recent requirement to register a company’s name with the Financial Services Commission, the party suggested. “The current fee is low and seems to be nothing more than a processing fee. “We agree with the position of businesses operating in our Islands outside of Providenciales and Grand Turk should be given

special consideration. “However, using the quantity approach like in the motor vehicle rental and leasing licence is not the best way to achieve this. “We recommend a straight forward approach like that which was used in the stamp duty rates structure.” A clear description of activities for each category of licences is desperately needed as a vast number of people are confused about which category their business falls under, and or how many different business licences they are required to obtain, the PDM noted. They further recommended that in order to avoid costly penalties business licences should follow the same structure as companies’ registry, in that when the licensing period has expired and the licence is not renewed in a specified period, the license would be struck off or cancelled. “While we have offered the above observations and recommendations, we believe that the new regulations should be halted for consultation and review as demanded by the good governance principles.” There is still time for the Government to conduct the proper consultation whether it is through town hall meetings or a Blue Ribbon Commission comprised of people with vast business experience, the party stated.

prescribed standards, protocols and best practices,” the Health Minister explained. “The aim is to allow quality improvement to take place where it will be most helpful and will improve outcomes for patients.” Clinical audits can be carried out anywhere where healthcare is provided and used to assess, evaluate and improve care of patients in a systematic way. Stubbs Smith insisted that the audit will be conducted according to the agreed guidelines and will cover all services including both outpatient and inpatient services. “All information gathered from clinical records will be handled with the utmost care recognising the importance of confidentiality and the sensitive nature of clinical information.” She went on to stress that systems of quality assurance and quality improvement will also be evaluated in addition to patient and staff satisfaction surveys. The audit will provide the hospitals with a benchmark report on their compliance, their prescribed standards and performance, feeding back comparative findings to help identify improvements for patients. Gathered information will then be used to assess the quality of healthcare being delivered and allow InterHealth Canada to make improvements within a given timeframe. Staff requirements, costs and

other services will be determined following demand supply modelling. INTERHEALTH CANADA In January 2008 former Finance Minister Floyd Hall and Health Minister Lillian Boyce signed an agreement on behalf of the TCI Government to see two new hospitals constructed. InterHealth Canada was contracted to design and build the facilities as well as equip, maintain and staff them for 25 years at which point the responsibility will be handed back to TCIG. The company hired Johnston International to build the $125 million facilities - work began in 2008 and was completed in 2010. Jill Magri, Interhealth Canada’s chief executive officer of the hospitals, told the Weekly News on Thursday (May 22) that the company has continuously strived to meet the healthcare needs of the country. She said the financial and clinical audits were both welcomed and staff have provided all information requested. “We’re very excited about the clinical audit finally beginning. We have already spent a day and a half with Dr Marzolf and have started looking through a number of our documents and systems and processes. “They will be coming back again the first part of next week to do additional work. We’re very pleased that this is moving forward finally.”

Under the tree

She explained that the auditors would not only be speaking with the hospital staff but also with the Ministry of Health and other agencies within the community that also have a role with the delivery of healthcare services. FINANCIAL AUDIT KPMG commenced a financial audit of the hospitals in March last year and submitted an initial draft summary of the findings to TCIG in July. The document was then presented to Cabinet in September following which Premier Rufus Ewing told media that issues and concerns had been passed to the Contract Management Board. Ewing explained that the “interim” report could not be made public because signing off had not occurred. This week Magri said: “InterHealth Canada has responded to the draft summery and to my knowledge the audit has still not been completed.” In January this year leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson called for a major investigation into healthcare. No publication of the hospital audit and a lack of transparency were just some of the issues she highlighted. “We have seen no audits on the hospital or the National Health Insurance Plan (NHIP) since it began its operation some three years ago,” she declared. (RB)

By Benneth Williams


8

NEWS

Huge increase in tourist arrivals so far this year OVERALL tourist arrivals to the Turks and Caicos Islands grew by 41 per cent in the first quarter of this year, with robust growth recorded across all major source markets. The statistics were made public during a meeting of Government ministers and members of the Tourist Board on Thursday (May 22). Premier Rufus Ewing who also acts as Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage said the numbers reflect the strength and authenticity of the TCI brand. “The Turks and Caicos brand has been a magnet to our guests who, upon visiting the country once, are compelled to come time and time again,” he enthused. “These numbers are not only impressive but demonstrative that this jewel of ours is no longer a secret, and in fact, is one of the most sought after destinations in the region, and indeed the world.” January, February and March saw a combined total of 358,188 visitor arrivals to the destination, accounting for 104,437 more visitor arrivals than the same time last year. The combined number represents 105,506 stop-over visitors and 252,682 visitors arriving by cruise ship. It was a very strong start to the year, according to tourism heads, as stop-over arrivals surged by 30 per cent. The United States was the leading market generator of all stop-over arrivals to the Turks and Caicos Islands with 82,739 during the first quarter of 2014 - a 35 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2013. The destination’s second largest source market, Canada, indicated a slight rebound with a total of 14,830 stop-over arrivals during the first quarter of 2014, an increase of 13 per cent. Stop-over arrivals from the European markets were also boosted this first quarter, with arrivals from the United Kingdom and France increasing by 17 per cent and 86 per cent respectively. Continuing on its upward trend, the TCI more than doubled its stopover arrivals from Italy in the first quarter of 2014 and collectively the European market recorded 1,889 stop-over arrivals. A breakdown in stay-over arrivals from the European region reveals 873 visitors from the United Kingdom, 193 visitors from France, 394 visitors from Italy, 69 visitors from Germany and 360 visitors from other European nations. The destination’s newest source market, Brazil, recorded 515 stopover arrivals, an impressive growth rate of 55 per cent at the end of first quarter of 2014. Increases in visitors from the eastern Caribbean have also been a noted trend. Stop-over arrivals in the first

May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Director of the Tourist Board Ralph Higgs said that these are wonderful results for the destination

quarter of 2014 increased 11 per cent accounting for an additional 4,526 tourists. More than 1,000 stop-over arrivals visited the Turks and Caicos Islands from the rest of the world, including countries in Asia, Africa and the Pacific. Director of the Tourist Board Ralph Higgs said that these are wonderful results for the destination, the country, the tourism industry and the economy. “It is a most encouraging sign that stop-over arrivals growth came from all regions in the first quarter of the year. “We are thrilled to see our overall arrival numbers for the first quarter of 2014 up 41 per cent and we are optimistic that these numbers will continue to climb through the remainder of the year.” During the first quarter the Grand Turk Cruise Centre welcomed a total of 252,682 cruise passengers, a 46 per cent increase over the same period in 2013 when the destination welcomed 172,888 cruise passengers. The months of January and February saw 95,517 and 72,862 cruise passenger arrivals respectively, recording increases in cruise passenger arrivals of 23 per cent and nine per cent when compared to the previous year. Moreover, the month of March

welcomed 84,303 cruise passengers, a 187 per cent increase over the same period in 2013 which saw a three week closure of the port. “We are impressed by these increases and look forward to another tremendous year for the cruise sector,” Higgs said. “If all factors prove well and remain equal, we expect the cruise sector to welcome one million visitors to the destination alone this year.” The Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) also confirmed that unaudited occupancy figures amongst its members show average increases of 30 per cent for the first quarter of 2014. Executive director Stacy Cox stated that these are very encouraging numbers and pledged her association’s continued support to the Turks and Caicos Government and the Tourist Board. Premier Ewing said that the country’s economy has already begun the climb towards recovery, and recognised the significance of the contribution that these travellers make. “Tourism has always been the bread basket of our economy and the efforts of both my Government and elected governments of the past have ensured that the industry runs like a well-oiled machine. “However, at the same time, we must recognise that the continued success of the industry, well into the future, remains dependent on the level of service that we provide each and every one of our visitors to the Islands. “Our hospitality must remain reflective of our high-end, luxury brand and must begin from the moment the guest engages the travel agent to the moment they return to their home. “We must ensure that we, immigration and customs officials, taxi drivers and residents throughout the visit, continue to ensure the experience of our guests promote the values of safety, security and service.”

Changes to business licence law deferred – Opposition questions the reasoning THE BUSINESS Licence (Amendment) Bill 2014 was this past week, pulled from consideration by the House of Assembly until further notice. On Monday (May 19), the bill was up for its second reading, at which time members of the house would have had a chance to debate and vote on the bill. But this was not to be as Minister of Finance Washington Misick deferred the bill indefinitely, before it could be read. His reasoning was that he wanted to seek input from all members of the assembly and the business community. During the House sitting the minister said the move is in keeping with Government’s intention is to revisit the business licence issue. “Until the Government has had a chance to consider it in more detail and perhaps to speak with you on the other side and with other stakeholders, I think the best thing we can do is to defer this bill and find ways to deal with it in a way that would reduce the cost of doing business.” One of the proposed amendments to the bill sets the date for registration for July 1 to span until June 30 rather than April 1 to March 31. The deferral of the amendments now puts many businesses in a precarious position, Deputy Leader of the Opposition Sean Astwood said when contacted on Thursday (May 22). He said that currently, a number of companies are experiencing difficulty conducting business overseas, as they are unable to produce a valid business licence due to the decision not to allow businesses to renew their licence until July 1. All Island Elected Member, Derek Taylor was also worried that businesses are being forced to continue operating illegally. He further requested that something be done in the interim. Misick pointed out that the bill

does not address that issue and that is another reason why the withdrawal was made. He added that the Government is taking all of the feedback they received so far into consideration with the hope of arriving at a well thought out and comprehensive solution. “A solution which [we] will have an opportunity to discuss with the Opposition before we come again with something you may oppose. “So when I come back I want to come back with a bill that has your support,” Misick told members of the House. He told the Weekly News on Thursday that the bill may go back to the House for consideration or the Government may decide to withdraw it altogether in favour of some other piece of legislation to regulate business registration. Meanwhile, the proposed amendments to the Business Licence Ordinance state that a licence shall be valid for the period ending June 30 following the date of its issue, unless earlier revoked. A further amendment states that an application for renewal shall be made in writing and shall be accompanied by the prescribed fee. Additionally, if the Permanent Secretary of Finance is satisfied that the applicant continues to meet the requirements for the issue of a licence, the Permanent Secretary shall renew the licence and such licence shall be valid until June 30 in the year following the renewal date. The last proposed amendment notes that if an application for the renewal of a licence has been made before the expiry of the licence, but has not been dealt with by the Permanent Secretary of Finance when the licence is due to expire, the licence continues in force until the application for renewal is dealt with and any renewal in such case shall be taken to have commenced from the day when the licence would have expired, but for the renewal. (DI)

Government steps up fight against health damaging tobacco CIGARETTE free public areas and an increase in taxes on tobacco products are just some of the measures being considered by the Government in the fight against smoking-related diseases. Minister of Health and Human Services Porsha Stubbs Smith spoke about some of her plans during the House of Assembly meeting in Grand Turk on Monday (May 19). She explained that preparations are currently underway to observe world No Tobacco Day on Saturday, May 31. The aim is to “bring awareness to the fact that tobacco and tobacco products have resulted in a worldwide health epidemic that is impacting most modern day societies,” she explained.

This year the Department of Mental Health and Substance Dependence (DMHSD) will be launching a quit campaign to encourage persons to stop smoking. In addition wholesale and retail distributers of tobacco products will be encouraged to abstain from selling any tobacco products on the day. She added that a tobacco use survey is currently being conducted to determine the current and past smoking status of residents and information gathered will be released on May 31. “We are also considering a policy change and probably increasing taxes on tobacco products,” she said. In April the DMHSD released its Annual

2013 Report which highlighted the department’s accomplishments, challenges and goals. DMHSD Director Dr Alicia Malcolm explained that the department had drafted a policy for 100 per cent smoke free environments along with a draft tobacco control act. “It’s basically a policy that will govern where people can or cannot smoke among other things,” she said. “Its main intention is to protect public safety from the dangers of second hand smoke.” More information on the policy will be made available to the press following approval from the minister, Malcolm told the Weekly News. (RB)


May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

9

New legislation banning discrimination against ex-offenders passed THE REHABILITATION of Offenders Bill 2014 permitting some criminal convictions to be ignored after a set period has been passed in the House of Assembly. Members of the House threw their full support behind the bill on Monday when the Attorney General, Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles presented it for passage. According to the bill, rehabilitation refers to the period of time that passes between the offender’s date of conviction and their rehabilitation. The bill does not specify what sentences are eligible; it only looks at the period of the sentence. However, rehabilitation does not apply to offences related to children and the vulnerable. In addition, those who have committed sexual offences against a person of either one of these groups, regardless of the period of sentence would not have the ability to be rehabbed. There is however no specific bar or exception in respect of sexual offences for persons outside of those two groups, the Attorney General told the House. She said that this might be something the members would wish to consider further as this sort of legislation is always under constant review, as evidenced in other jurisdictions. For a sentence of imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, but not exceeding two years, the rehabilitation period would be six years from the date of conviction. While a sentence of imprisonment for a term exceeding two years but not exceeding three years, the rehabilitation period would be seven years from the date of conviction. The bill provides for the rehabilitation of offenders who have not been reconvicted within the specified rehabilitation period. The Attorney General cautioned that having one’s conviction expunged is not the same thing as what the bill is proposing. “This bill proposes that after a period of time certain offences are spent, which means that it prevents the unauthorised disclosure of information about spent convictions, but it does not cause a conviction to disappear.” She added: “It merely says how it should be treated and how it should affect the person and whether it should be disclosed. “The conviction remains a part of the record, so in the official record maintained by the Commissioner of Police or by the court, there would still be a record of the offence.” PROVISIONS OF THE BILL The purpose of the bill is to ensure that people do not have lifelong blots on their records because of relatively minor offences in their past. These offences may negatively influence those persons acquiring employment or other services.

It also intends to exclude prejudice, which may occur because of disclosure of persons’ relatively minor past convictions or offences. It seeks to aid the reintegration of ex-offenders into society and their resettlement into employment by not requiring them or any other person to disclose or answer questions regarding their convictions, which would be considered spent. The proposal in the bill is that sentences that are liable for rehabilitation would be noncustodial sentences and custodial sentences that are up to three years. The bill provides that in instances where a person can be rehabilitated and among others, that the person be rehabilitated if they have served or complied with their sentence and the rehabilitation period for that sentence has expired. This will apply to convictions in and outside of the Islands that were made before or after the commencement of the ordinance. The bill states that for a rehabilitated person 16 years and under, the period for rehabilitation is half the period for persons over that age. Evidence in any proceedings to prove that a person has been prosecuted/convicted/sentenced which relates to a spent conviction, shall be not be admissible in court, nor shall a rehabilitated person in any proceeding be asked or required to answer a question in relation to a spent conviction. The bill further provides that a question put to a person with a spent conviction - in any proceedings before a judicial authority such as a court, a tribunal body or persons having the power to determine questions relating to a person’s privileges, obligations or liability that the question itself may not be considered or answered. It states that the person who is questioned will not be liable or prejudice in law for failure to acknowledge or disclose a spent conviction in answer. Further provisions are made that a failure to disclose a spent conviction shall not be a ground for dismissing or excluding a person from any office, profession, occupation or employment. Provisions are made for the limitation on rehabilitation, however. This means that there are certain fields or areas, which, though a person may be rehabilitated, spent convictions need to be disclosed. Some of these areas of limitations relate to disclosure in circumstances such as proceedings related to adoption, marriage of a minor, criminal proceedings, proceedings for libel or slander, proceedings brought under any legislation dealing with children and in the operation of any requirement under any enactment which may have provided certain actions to take place within a certain period. An exception is made to the

Public Service Ordinance where the limitation will not apply and hence where the ten years in that legislation is required to lapse after a conviction; the Rehabilitation Bill proposes that instead the rehabilitation period specified in this bill be considered. As such, a consequential amendment is to be made to the Public Service Ordinance to apply spent convictions within the public service. The bill proposes further exceptions to rehabilitation and lists circumstances where spent convictions are to be disclosed and may be taken into account when assessing a person’s suitability for certain positions. Areas requiring disclosure of spent convictions are activities requiring a high degree of trust often involving children or other vulnerable person. Disclosure of past offences is required in instances of a serious violent or sexual offence and other offences of specific relevance that pose concern with safeguarding children and vulnerable persons. The bill however, also provides exceptions to the exception. Though there is a requirement to disclose under certain sections of the document, there are still certain minor offences and convictions that need not be disclosed and should not be disclosed to assess one’s suitability for employment. This provision still excludes those areas requiring the protection of certain persons in the community. This essentially means that, while allowing a person to re-enter employment life and to access services, the protection of children and those most vulnerable is still paramount. The bill makes provisions for an action of libel or slander to be

brought by a rehabilitated person - after the commencement of the ordinance – against someone for any publication made imputing that they have committed, been charged with, prosecuted or convicted for an offence that was subject to a spent conviction. However, this would not apply to a publication that was made before the conviction was spent. Further provision is made for the accused to raise a defence that the publication made is true, fair and in the public interest. However, it must be shown that the publication was made without malice; but if it was made maliciously, the defendant loses the right to that defence. There are penalties involved should someone disclose information related to spent convictions. VIEWS Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson said the bill has her full support as she believes it is long overdue. Other members on the Opposition side of the House also voiced their support, while making a number of suggestions to the Attorney General. Supporting the bill, Minister of Home Affairs, Amanda Missick said the aim is sound, in that it will aid persons, who previously found it difficult to reintegrate and be accepted, in accessing more opportunities. She added: “Especially relevant is the impact of the bill on young persons. The bill aims to reduce minor convictions impacted on young offenders, and introduces the amount of time that the offence remains active and therefore presenting meaningful opportunities.”

However, Governor appointed member Lillian Misick pointed to what she considers the biggest hurdles with the bill. “There is need to inform persons who this bill would affect, but I think also, young people in particular need to know that this particular piece of legislation is not a clearance certificate for them to go and do whatever they want to do. “ She added that the consequential amendments to the Public Service Ordinance could be the biggest hurdle the country may have. “This is going to be the biggest hurdle we face because persons who are responsible for employment in the public service wherever they may be, although it says there must be no prejudice against persons, these people have it in their minds and they will find any way around it… “And I don’t know how it will be addressed. You can address it in legislation, but there is no kind of punishment for persons who do it, and as I said they will find any explanation – save and except that one (conviction) – to deny a person a job.” She added that the Government would have to ensure that every effort is made to ensure that persons, who have committed these infractions, are dealt with. Misick further stated that it is time the matter of the judiciary be addressed, as some of the persons sent to prison can instead be given warnings. Other members expressed like sentiments. Many, the Premier included, believe that firm mechanisms should be put in place to deal with those who will continue to discriminate against people with spent records, in both the public and private sector. (DI)

TCI observes Aids Vaccine Awareness Day THE TURKS and Caicos Islands joined the world in observing Aids Vaccine Awareness Day on May 18. Officials from the National HIV Prevention Unit programme said that there remains an urgent need to find an AIDS vaccine. They said that it is possible to begin to control the HIV epidemic using existing interventions, but a vaccine will be a critical component of the long-term strategy to end the Aids epidemic. According to a press release from the National HIV Prevention Unit there has been a dramatic success in increasing access to HIV treatment, care and existing prevention options, and these efforts together are starting to reduce HIV incidence and mortality, but new interventions are needed to make a lasting, decisive impact on the

epidemic. Even a partially effective vaccine would help to sustain the impact of expanded access to treatment and existing prevention options. They are working to ensure broader access to HIV testing and treatment as well as existing HIV prevention options; they are urging others to continue to look for additional ways to prevent HIV, including a vaccine. The press release went on to say that the road to an Aids vaccine is not easy. Vaccine development can be a slow, iterative process, but after 30 years of the HIV epidemic, researchers believe they’re closer to a vaccine than they have been. The Aids vaccine pipeline is increasingly diverse. More than 30 Aids vaccine clinical trials are underway, testing a variety of

candidates and vaccine concepts. However, most are early stage trials (phase I and II) testing for safety and immune responses; there are no ongoing efficacy trials. The current challenge is to continue moving promising strategies forward without delay. Researchers urgently need to develop a clear, prioritised plan for managing the pipeline of vaccine candidates in order to prevent duplication and to accelerate study of the most promising products (AVAC 2014). In the release the Ministry of Health and Human Services and the National HIV Prevention Unit thanked the thousands of volunteers, community members, health professionals, advocates, policy makers and scientists who are working together to find a safe and effective Aids vaccine.


10

May 24 - 30, 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.

Thumbs up for island healthcare Dear Editor, As my Facebook friends would know, I have posted on my page my loss of 30 pounds several months ago due to exercise and the use of the My Fitness Pal App. Well since then, I started to feel some discomfort in both my shoulders. I ignored it at first but then I thought to myself: “You pay NHIP every month, boy get your tail to the hospital and check it out”. Mind now, I never thought to just stop exercising so much, but I digress. I made my appointment, went on the date, paid $10 and saw Dr Dawn O’Sullivan and got checked out. I was diagnosed with a slight rotator cuff injury of both shoulders ie. some weakness of the muscles. It made sense since my primary exercise routine included jumping jacks, push-ups, and triceps dips, all of which involve movement of the shoulders in one direction or the other. She recommended that I start physiotherapy ASAP. But the problem was, I was about to head to Grand Turk for Easter with my family for 10 days, so I couldn’t start right away. Problem solved. Ms Shareel Dixon, the physiotherapist at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre

contacted her counterpart Ms Camille Marshall in the Cockburn Town Medical Centre and I was good to go for my appointment over my Easter holiday. I got to Grand Turk and went to my first appointment, paid my $10, and waited for Ms Marshall. What took place from then to now has been one of my best customer service experiences in my life. Ms Marshall proceeded with a 45 minute or so consultation with me about the ins and outs of my injury, giving tips for healing, especially exercise less etc. Then the hooking me up to multiple machines began. First up: the therapeutic ultrasound. Yes, ultrasound. I thought the same thing you might be thinking, I don’t have a baby in my shoulders so where she going with that clear gel! Turns out it was to speed up the healing of the muscle tissues in my shoulders, which she explained to me. Next up: electrotherapy. Have you seen clips of Bruce Lee hooked up to a machine with his shirt off typing and his muscles pulsing? Well, that was me but without the typing, just pulsing shoulder muscles because the muscles in that area were weak and needed strengthening.

Next up: short wave diathermy. More muscle healing. So two and half hours after I got to hospital, I was finished my first physiotherapy session. I squeezed in one more session in Grand Turk before starting in Provo where the great service continued. On the Provo end, I was started on a targeted exercise regime on my shoulders, medically called therapeutic strengthening exercises, followed by 15 minutes under heating pads. Paying $10 for each session. So why did I take the time to tell you all this? Especially stressing the $10 co-payments throughout? Simply, we often make the most public fuss when something goes wrong, but do not say thank you when they go right. I know something about insurance, and I view the $10 co-pay as nothing more than a very small deductible to ensure there is little abuse of the system. Anyone with private medical insurance knows if they did the same procedures I did, their out of pocket expense/deductible would be far greater, even though they would have paid a yearly premium to have the coverage. No, I’m not saying good things about the hospitals because of my

father. Royal S Robinson has no problem defending his involvement in the project without the need for my help. Here’s a rough breakdown of the cost of services I had: physiotherapy consultation: $135 to $160 an hour, therapeutic ultrasound: $50 to $75 per 15 minute session, electrotherapy: $50 to $75 per session, short wave diathermy: $50 to $75 per session, personal trainer: $75 to $100 per session in the TCI. Total Cost for seven visits: $785 to $1,085. All for $60. You do the math. So at the end of the day am I saying the hospital is perfect? No! Nothing is, and I’m sure improvements can be made to service delivery. I’m just saying I had a great

experience with the physiotherapy team and I had hoped to put this in perspective. We have what President Obama and Democrats have been fighting for decades for in the USA, universal healthcare. The management and delivery of our healthcare might need improving but it must and will happen over time. The idea of universal healthcare still holds water here in the TCI. Thanks again to Camille and Shareel for the excellent healthcare experiences that I got in Grand Turk as well as Providenciales. Jamell Robinson Leeward Palms, Providenciales

Raise your flags Dear Editor, The People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) is calling on all peoples living in the Turks and Caicos Islands be it citizens or residents on National Heroes Day, May 26, 2014 to raise the TCI’s flag. As we celebrate our named National Hero, the Hon JAGS

McCartney, we also honour and demonstrate respect for those who served and are serving in many aspects of our country’s life. Let us together celebrate our beautiful country. Sharlene Cartwright Robinson Leader of the Opposition

COMMENTARY

Who is the goat? YEARS ago we spent weeks, sometimes a month, in the eastern Caribbean. We visited just about every island between Antigua and Grenada. We were in St George’s when some USA troops were still present. Bequia in St Vincent and the Grenadines was a favourite place. We could never tell the difference between Bequia goats and sheep because the animals looked the same. Finally I was informed that if the animal’s tail sticks up it is a goat and if it points down it is a sheep! Then there is the old saying: “Don’t let problems get your goat”. This is good advice for our

Finance Minister. Every time we see Washington Misick on television someone or something has got his goat. He seems frustrated. One scene had him taking issue with his brother the former Premier. Brother Mike blamed the multimillion dollar loan and the TCI Bank failure on the British. No, Washington replied, “the loan paid off our debts”. Earlier he described the loan as a “rescue package”. Washy did not address the bank failure then or later. This Government promised to hit the ground running and have the TCI back on its feet 100 days after the election. We are now near 600 days later and we continue to crawl backwards

SPACE IS LIMITED!

on our hands and knees. For three and a half years of interim government, time was available to make a plan and create a tentative budget. Their plan was to shut down the airport and damage tourism. The latest news has our Finance Minister joining his brother trying to make the British the goat for his party’s problems. Spending problems with debts and obligations generated by his party 2003 through 2009, spending halted only by the inquiry, the excessive healthcare obligations absorb the heightened taxes and the money to pay the county’s needs. Close to 4,500 depositors and the National Insurance Board were

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

the goats when the TCI Bank went down. $15.5 million of the people’s hard earned pension funds lost after being invested by PNP appointees in a PNP run bank. Now millions in uncollected Government fees and taxes are revealed. Remember the interim Permanent Secretary of Finance was a PNP appointee? Can un-renewed business licences be an uncollected receivable or is that voodoo economics? Did it ever occur to anyone that this Government and this party has

a collective minus zero credit rating? During the inquiry it was revealed that the PNP’s chequebook could not be balanced. Remember the PNP budgets that got sent back because they didn’t balance? Who would loan $100 million and more to this Government? Taxes and fees have reached beyond the saturation point and you can’t get blood out of a turnip. We already ate the turnip and the goat. What’s next?

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


May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 11

Revamped craft market opens – But vendors still not able to make ends meet BY DAISY HANDFIELD Five Cays homeowner steals power from FortisTCI

FortisTCI loses a million dollars due to power theft FORTISTCI is ramping up its efforts to combat power theft, after 20 cases have been uncovered for the year, so far. Manager of corporate communications, Talisha Simons, said that 75 cases were detected in 2013, with a total estimated loss exceeding a million dollars. “To help minimise this illegal and dangerous activity the company has introduced a power theft investigation team that is working solely to detect power diversion in all service areas.” Simons said that power theft is not only extremely dangerous but it is also a crime punishable by law and that this act has repercussions for everyone. “The safety of all residents in areas where these illegal connections are set up is in jeopardy as unsuspecting persons near un-insulated and exposed wires can be electrocuted causing injury or even the loss of life.” Fuel costs to generate electricity are shared between FortisTCI and legal customers while illegal customers pay nothing. Simons said that these are reasons why FortisTCI will continue to work closely with the Royal Turks and

Caicos Police Force to bring these culprits to justice and eradicate this issue. FortisTCI is urging those that would like to regularise their illegal service to visit any FortisTCI Customer Service Centre, where they will be provided with instructions on how to properly apply for and legally obtain electricity. This effort can help maintain the level and quality of service that is currently being supplied to all customers. President and CEO, Eddinton Powell, said that he cannot over emphasise the importance of sensitising the community to the danger and unfairness of illegal power diversion. “We operate at FortisTCI with a zero tolerance for persons who have no regard for the law and the safety of others. “It cannot be fair especially in times like these that our customers and our shareholders pay the price for power theft. “We will continue to partner with the proper authorities and ask the community to be vigilant in reporting these illegal acts to FortisTCI or the police.”

THE CRAFT market in the Bight, Providenciales, reopened this week after Beaches Resort and Spa carried out a series of much needed renovations. During a short opening ceremony on Monday, May 19, public relations manager for Beaches Resort, Elanor Finfin Krzanowski, said that this was one of the resort’s many corporate sponsorship programmes. She said her team felt it would be beneficial, not only for the citizens of the Bight, but also for the Turks and Caicos Islands’ economy. “As you know Beaches TCI has been a resident of the Bight since 1997, so we have been here for a while.” She said that the team began the project four months ago and renovations include a new coat of paint, a seating area, more signs and paving for car parking. But vendors say that despite the improvements they are still not able to produce sufficient revenue to cover their bills and sustain themselves. In February a private meeting between the vendors and the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs was held to discuss the back payment of the rent and the possibility of eviction. Vendors complained that were not making enough money to pay the rent which is why they were falling behind on months of payments. When vendor Edline Pubien spoke to the Weekly News this week, she expressed gratitude to Beaches, but said she felt like they could provide more promotion to help them produce sufficient revenue.

A Beaches representative and Craft Market vendor cut reopening ribbon

She said that Beaches should let tourists know that they are there so that they can come out and support them as their former beach access was cut off following the sale of the Veranda resort. “We do approach them [Beaches staff] many times and some of them would come over and ask us what we wanted,” Pubien said. “They write down, they take down notes and say that they will go in there and show it to their boss and get back to us.” Another vendor reiterated that Beaches needed to advertise the market more, being so close. “A lot of the guests come through the gates and stumble,” the vendor said. “They didn’t even know that we were out here and they saw us when they go on the water slides. “They need to make it more publicised in the resort so the guests would know that there is a culture market outside the gates, rather

Bermuda Premier resigns amid scandal PREMIER of Bermuda, Craig Cannonier handed in his resignation Monday night (May 19) over the so-called Jetgate controversy which has rocked the ruling One Bermuda Alliance (OBA). Confirmation on the resignation came on Tuesday by Governor George Fergusson, Bermudian and other Caribbean media outlets reported. Deputy Premier Michael Dunkley, who is also National Security Minister, is now Acting Premier of the British Overseas Territory. “The Premier, Craig Cannonier, called on me this evening (Monday) and tendered his resignation as Premier, which I have accepted," the Bermudan Governor said in a statement. “I have asked the Deputy Premier, Michael Dunkley, to carry out the role of Acting Premier on an interim basis.” According to a report in the Jamaica Observer, while exiting the Cabinet office, Dunkley said: “This is a bitter-sweet moment.” Cannonier, who turned 51 on Saturday when the OBA held its first

meeting to discuss the ramifications of the long-running Jetgate saga, was not immediately available for comment, the news site reported. Earlier in the day, Dunkley, a dairy owner, said Cannonier had his full support. Cannonier had been leader for 17 months since the OBA ousted the Progressive Labour Party (PLP) after 14 years in power with a twoseat victory in the December 2012 general election. Monday's news came after several hours of meetings at Cabinet office, which ran late into the night. Jetgate surrounded the use of US tycoon Nathan Landow’s private jet to take the Premier and two of his Cabinet ministers for talks with Landow in America last year. The crisis deepened last week after Landow confirmed he and a group of other US businessmen had donated US$300,000 to assist the 2012 OBA election campaign. However, Landow said cash was wired to a group called the Bermuda Political Action Club and not directly to the OBA.

Landow insisted that no deal was struck during the meeting and said he received nothing from the OBA government in return for his financial contribution to the party. He denied Cannonier asked him for $2 million in "facilitation money" to help him make casino gambling a reality in Bermuda. Landow had been interested in developing a casino in Bermuda but told the Bermuda Sun last week he no longer had any interest in the project. Three months after the December 2012 election victory, Cannonier, Tourism Minister Shawn Crockwell, Attorney General Mark Pettingill and the Premier’s business manager Stephen DaCosta, flew to a meeting in the US with Landow and his associates. Despite Cannonier’s repeated denials of any wrongdoing, the damage caused to a party that won the election on promises of transparency and honest government proved too much for Cannonier to withstand. Last week Monday, OBA chairman Thad Hollis announced his party never received any political

Now ex-Premier of Bermuda, Craig-Cannonier

contributions from Landow, and stated the party would launch an internal investigation into the matter. The PLP has accused Cannonier of not telling the full truth about the junket (business trip that is really for pleasure) to the United States. Government backbencher Leah Scott, a former Minister without Portfolio, added to the pressure on Cannonier when she took to her social media account before Saturday's meeting to chastise the OBA for its handling of Jetgate, describing revelations as "death by a thousand cuts". (Story sourced from the Jamaica Observer)

than them just running around and stumbling over us, knowing that we are out here.” About two months ago the craft market vendors reinstated an association made up of about 20 craft vendors called the Cultural Market Association which aims to promote the market more. Finfin Krzanowski said that since January up to now they have recorded more than 5,000 guests going through their back gate. She believes that these guests have been going to the craft market, as it is highlighted during an orientation tour. “We have the daily news letter that is published every day and that stuff is in our daily news letter; what the hours are and what is offered in the cultural market.” The public relations manager said that in addition to this, every Tuesday is celebrated as ‘Cultural Tuesday’ at the resort and they invite 10 of the craft vendors, chosen amongst themselves, to go in and showcase their products. She said that of course there is more that can be done and they are open for ideas and open to speak with the association so they can let them know how they could be better. “Like I said, it’s all trial and error. If they don’t think we are doing it right, we are always up for discussion with the craft market vendors and to encourage them to let us know how we can do better. “We’ve had some suggestions and some of these suggestions have been put into motion. “It is up to both of us to keep the communication going, keep the dialogue going so we can find out how we can assist in terms of generating more revenue and promote the craft market better.” Jamaican hotel magnate Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart bought The Veranda Resort and Residences, a five-star fully-inclusive property located on Grace Bay beach, after almost two years of negotiation. The sale became official December 17, 2012, and the Key West Village opposite the craft market was officially opened on Sunday (May 18). The beach access where tourists would walk from Grace Bay to visit the craft market was closed off.


12

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 24 - 30, 2014


May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

13


14

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 24 - 30, 2014

TCI takes tourism road show to Canada and USA

Heather Elaine Cooke, CPA regional secretary, Rebecca Kadaga, Speaker of parliament in Uganda and Deputy Premier Akierra Missick in the Bahamian parliament

TCI’s top female politicians meet inspirational figures THREE of the TCI’s leading female political figures attended a regional parliamentary conference this week where they met some of the world’s most influential woman. Deputy Premier Akierra Missick, Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson and Lydia Butterfeld, Deputy Clerk to the House of Assembly all jetted off to the Bahamas to take part. The two day meeting of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) regional branch was held in Nassau on Thursday and Friday (May 22 and 23). Representatives from many Caribbean countries congregated under the theme ‘Women: The voice, the vote, the victory.’ The meeting devised strategies for increasing women’s participation and representation in the parliamentary process. It also aimed to ensure that there is a fair representation of women’s rights and concerns within their respective countries. Cartwright Robinson moderated a

session during the second day of the meeting entitled: ‘The state of the region: The way forward.’ And Missick closed the conference on Friday evening with an address that highlighted the achievements female parliamentarians in the TCI - where they account for 46 per cent of those sitting in the House of Assembly. Delegates will report next year on progress in bringing new initiatives that will further bring women to the fore across the region. The Deputy Premier said: “Yesterday was a very special day as the senior delegates were invited to the Bahamas parliament where we were welcomed by Speaker of the House Kendal Major, ministers Glynnes Hanna-Martin, Transport and Aviation, and Melanie Griffin, Minister of Social Development‎. “It was rewarding and humbling to meet with and discuss the future of women in politics with women of the stature of Rebbecca Kadaga, who is chairing the event. “She was the first women speaker in the Ugandan parliament, which

has 375 members. “She is a real trailblazer in a traditional east African patriarchal society, and reminds me of other ground-breakers in the Caribbean such as Jamaican prime minister Portia Simpson-Miller, the Bahamas’ Dame Marguerite Pindling, and former Bermuda premier Paula Cox.” The CWP was founded by women delegates at the 1989 plenary conference so women at future conferences could discuss ways to increase female representation in parliament. They also hoped to work towards the mainstreaming of gender considerations in all Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) activities and programmes. In 2004, the group was formally recognised in the CPA constitution and its elected chairperson added to the CPA executive committee. The CPA is an organisation of British origin which works to support good governance, democracy and human rights.

International health consultants help plan laboratory network A NATIONAL health laboratory network is on the cards for the Turks and Caicos Islands and this week international consultants helped to push the plan forward. Members of the Pan American Health Organisation visited the country from Tuesday to Thursday (May 20 and 22) to talk to local health officials about the project. Microbiologist Wendy KitsonPiggott and chemical engineer Nilsia Johnson helped to develop policies and a strategic plan for the regulation of medical laboratories and the proposed network, aimed at ensuring the protection of public health. The visitors spoke to a cross section of key stakeholders in the

health sector from the Ministry of Health and Human Services, TCI’s hospitals, private laboratories and practitioners, the National Health Insurance Board and Provo Water Company. Kitson-Piggott trained at McGill University and the University of Guelph in Canada. She has practised as a public health professional for 39 years and is a co-founder of the Caribbean Med Labs Foundation (CMLF). She joined the Caribbean Epidemiology Centre in 1991 as the HIV/Aids/STI laboratory advisor and later became the training manager for a Europeanfunded project ‘Strengthening of medical laboratory services in the

Caribbean’. Kitson-Piggott continues her advocacy for laboratory quality improvement, through her work with the CMLF, and as a volunteer with the Clinical Laboratory and Standards Institute and other international organisations. Johnson has worked for over 20 years in the environmental health laboratory at the Ministry of Health in Jamaica. She is an assessor for technical laboratories including public health laboratories. She is employed to the Ministry of Health, Jamaica as a pollution control, water and wastewater specialist and is a lecturer in environment, at the University of Technology, Jamaica.

A CONCERTED effort to reinforce the Turks and Caicos brand and lure more investors to TCI’s shores is being undertaken by top hotel executives, the Government and the Tourist Board. They are taking a road show to Canada and the United States and will be touching down at six different locations between the two countries in the space of five days. The resorts taking part are Alexandra, Blue Haven, Amanyara, Gansevoort, Regent Grand, Parrot Cay, Venetian Ridge, Regent Palms, VIP Flyers Club and Grace Bay Club. The Premier and Minister of Tourism, Rufus Ewing and some of the tourism and hotel representatives made the announcement on Thursday (May 22) at the Hilly Ewing Building in Providenciales. Nikheel Advani, chief operating officer of Grace Bay Resorts, said: “All these resorts together are on the road show, we are out there to talk about TCI and we are inviting the top travel professionals and press to be with us and to be able to understand what we have that is so special in these Islands.” Ewing said his Government sees the trip as a very important initiative, put together by the Hotel and Tourism Association. The team of 30 strong will be meeting with Government officials and other top politicians in Ottawa, Canada. The Premier said he would also be meeting one-on-one with Canada’s Prime Minister, Stephen Harper with the objective of forging stronger social and economic relationships between the two countries. “So that we can create investment

and education opportunities; there are a number of other initiatives that I’m sure I will speak to in such discussions,” he added. Meanwhile, the Speakers of the two Houses of Parliament of Canada will be hosting team TCI, Ewing said. “That will go a long way to demonstrate that these two countries mean business, and will try to foster stronger ties and relationships in tourism, investment, trade, education, among other things.” The team will then move on to Toronto where the Tourist Board will be opening a new office. This too, the Premier pointed out, means that the TCI means to forge deeper ties with the North American country. In the US, the team will blitz through Chicago, New York, Dallas and Miami where they will host receptions to market and promote the TCI. Director of Tourism, Ralph Higgs pointed to the historical significance of the trip, particularly the Canadian leg. “Canada is one of the richest countries in the world; one of the few countries that currently doesn’t have any real deficit and having the opportunity to meet and talk about bilateral relations is very important.” He further commended the Premier and his Government for seeing the vision in this initiative. “I think certainly stronger bilateral relations between TCI and any country is important and having stronger bi-lateral relations with Canada is going to be a very good thing,” the tourism director said. (DI)

Police meetings with public continue A SERIES of town hall meetings hosted by Police Commissioner Colin Farquhar and several of his senior officers will continue until next week. For the first time this year residents have the opportunity to speak to police officers in a public forum on the topics of crime and policing. It is not only allowing the force to hear public concerns and opinions but also helping them to form a new strategic plan. Meetings took place this week in South Caicos, Middle Caicos and Providenciales. Police press officer Audley Astwood told the Weekly News that the reaction so far had been extremely positive and that officers look forward to receiving more constructive criticism this week. Further meetings will take place at 6pm on Tuesday, May 27, at the Community Centre in Five Cays, and at 5pm on Thursday, May 29, at Dillon Hall in Grand Turk.

On Friday, May 30, there will be a meeting at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Centre in Providenciales and on Tuesday, June 3, at the Tropicana Auditorium in Grace Bay – both at 6pm Finally on June 5 at 6pm the police are holding their last town hall meeting at Adelaide Oemler Primary School in North Caicos. “Please pass this information along to all of your local membership groups, friends, neighbours and family. All are welcome and encouraged to attend,” a police press release read. “Commissioner Colin Farquhar and his staff look forward to discussing your concerns and opinions relating to crime and policing in the various communities.” Any questions regarding these meetings can be directed to the police on 941-4448 or public relations officer Audley Astwood at audley. astwood@tcipolice.tc.


May 24 - 30, 2014

15

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Providenciales International Airport scheduled for a winter 2014 completion.

Check-in kiosks have arrived and installed for passenger usage.

Airport renovation set to finish this winter THE PROVIDENCIALES International Airport remodelling is already 75 per cent completed and is on schedule for a winter 2014 opening. In a press briefing on Thursday (May 22), terminal and marketing manager for Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority, Lavern Skippings said that terminal construction works are ongoing and are most apparent in the international check-in area. The check-in wall has been refurbished and now hosts a vivid shade of blue that is the backsplash for the new 46” display screens. She said that the display screens

will host flight graphics of the airline working from that check-in desk located directly in front of the screen. “The check-in area will also have flight information display screens (FIDS) that will display departure and arrival flight data. “Check-in kiosks have arrived and installed for passenger usage. Passengers with no luggage can check in at the kiosk, print their boarding pass and continue through the security check point with ease. “Passengers with baggage can still use the check in kiosks, then continue to the counter to drop off their baggage before going through the security check point.”

There are three airlines currently in use at the kiosk machines however they have the ability to host many more. Tiling has also begun inside of the newly constructed security check point and arrivals hall. The new air conditioning units are being ducted and installed to service this new area. With the project being approximately 75 per cent completed, build out is taking place inside of the airline sky lounge office spaces. The offices have been separated by stud walls, floors tiles installed and finishing works have commenced. The old airline office space will

POLICE SAFETY TIPS

How to raise a juvenile delinquent THE PROBLEM of juvenile delinquency is a hot button issue in our country. But how did we as a society arrived at this point? It all starts with poor parenting. There is a combination of ways you can raise a delinquent child and not even know it. In my many years as a police officer, there are common traits that in my opinion promote juvenile delinquency. Begin with infancy to give your child everything he wants. In this way, he will grow up to believe the world owes him a living. When he picks up bad words, laugh at him. This will make him think he’s cute. It will also encourage him to pick up ‘cuter’ phrases that will blow off the top of your head later. Never give him any spiritual training. Wait until he is 21, and then let him ‘decide for himself’. Avoid use of the word ‘wrong’. It may develop a guilt complex. This will condition him to believe, later, when he is arrested for stealing a car, that the police are against him and he is being persecuted. Pick up everything he leaves

By Audley Astwood Audley is a former police detective and broadcaster. He is currently the public relations officer for the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. and has dedicated his time at work and much of his free time focusing on crime prevention and community policing. For more information call 941-4448 or visit www.tcipolice.tc.

lying around such as books, shoes and clothing. Do everything for him so he will be experienced in throwing all responsibility onto others. Let him read any printed material, listen to any music he can get his hands on and let him watch anything he wants to on TV. Be careful that the silverware and drinking glasses are sterilised, but let his mind feast on garbage. Quarrel frequently in the presence of your child. In this way, he will not be too shocked when the home is broken up later. Give your child all the spending money he wants. Never let him earn his own. Why should he have things as tough as you had them? Satisfy his every craving for food, drink and comfort. See that every sensual desire is gratified. Denial may lead to harmful frustration.

Take his side against neighbours, teachers and policemen. They are all prejudiced against your child. When he gets into real trouble, apologise for yourself by saying: “I never could do anything with him.” Prepare for a life of grief. You will be sure to have it. Parents play a pivotal role in the lives of their children and their children look to them for guidance as to what is acceptable and what is not. Parents should always be positive role models in the lives of their children. The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is engaging in many proactive activities in an effort to steer kids away from a life of crime. We need parents to do the same. For more information please visit www.tcipolice.tc.

be transformed to add to the upper passenger departure lounge. Passengers will have prime view of the arriving and departing flights through the glazed windows. Skippings said that finishing works on the roadway will commence at the end of this week to close off the entry road closest to the median. In addition the construction fence will be removed to allow motorists to drive on the inside of the blue bicycle rail and drop off passenger at the newly constructed curb side.

The curb side is continuously being poured inside of the construction area and will continue to the check in area shortly. The TCIAA has taken special steps to minimalize passenger discomfort whilst continuing construction in a safe environment. With the project nearing completion terminal zones will transform over night to transition into new space. Construction teams are working around the clock to keep the project on budget and on schedule for a winter 2014 completion.

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

Worthy being By Holly M

Close your eyes Look at who you are; and believe in who you are An adorable being, You are more than just the canvas, In a stellar gallery The stagnation of your worth Is encouraged by ill critics. Can you see that you are not like them? You are blessed by the most high, The one who graciously made you, made you wonderful and beautiful You are far greater than those who abbreviate you

You should placed on a pedestal As if you were a celestial being You should be in everyone’s sanctuary Divine and filled with love Your mind is a super nova That leads me to wonder What a bright star you are! Illuminates everything that you touch.


Lifestyle... 16

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GARDENING 

May 24 - 30, 2014

How does your garden grow

Tabebuia tree THE SHOWY tabebuia tree announces spring time in the Turks and Caicos Islands, with varieties that flower in pink, lavender-pink, white and golden yellow. Tabebuia is native to the American tropics and subtropics from Mexico and the Caribbean to Argentina. Most of the species are from Cuba and Hispaniola. The four most commonly planted tabebuias are outstanding trees for adding colour and beauty to home landscapes. They are Tabebuia impetiginosa ipe or purple trumpet tree, Tabebuia chrysotricha - gold tree or gold trumpet tree, Tabebuia heterophylla - pink trumpet tree and Tabebuia caraiba - silver trumpet tree. These highly ornamental trees grow between 20 and 30 feet and make great single specimen trees for medium-sized yards as well as pretty accents in larger properties. Not overly large, a tabebuia planted near a deck or patio can create welcome summertime shade for these outdoor areas. Tabebuias prefer a sunny location and are deciduous trees, but here on

BY DENIS Belanger - NATURE SPLENDOR

Denis is a passionate landscape architect who enjoys the creative process and his clients’ joy when projects come to life. Contact Denis at Nature Splendor for your landscaping, installation or garden maintenance needs. For more information call 332-3381 or email denis@naturesplendor.net.

island they only shed leaves later in the season just before flowering. They develop seed pods but these won’t create a nuisance by littering the ground and sprouting everywhere. When planting the tree, add top soil (or organic peat moss) to the hole when you plant. You may also want to add in composted cow manure to enrich the soil around the tree’s roots. Trimming isn’t necessary unless you need to remove any too low branches. Tabebuias can be somewhat drought tolerant once established, but they do best with a regular irrigation schedule allowing time between watering for the soil to dry out a bit. Fertilise two times a year (in spring and autumn) with a quality granular fertiliser.

Weekly Recipe

Feta cheese and bacon stuffed breasts INGREDIENTS

• 8 tablespoons olive oil • 2 teaspoons lemon juice • 4 cloves crushed garlic • 1 tablespoon dried oregano • Salt and pepper to taste • 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts • 4 slices feta cheese • 4 slices bacon, fried and drained METHOD • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). • In a small bowl combine the oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt and pepper. Mix together. Place chicken in a 9 by 13 inch baking dish and pour oil mixture over chicken. • Stuff each chicken breast with one slice of feta cheese and one

slice of bacon. • Secure open sides with toothpicks. • Bake uncovered at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 30 to 35 minutes.

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.

Plant 15 feet from the house or in from walks and drives eight to 10 feet (or more). If you’re planting tabebuias in a row as a hedge, space them at least four to six feet apart. You can also grow this tree in a large container while it’s young. Pest or disease have been noticed on tabebuia - the symptoms typically include the crinkling of the leaves

inwards along the axis of the midvein and generally associated with a dark coloured insect usually about three to four millimetres in length. It was soon found that an unidentified species of thrips was responsible Spectacularly flamboyant when in bloom, pink or yellow trumpet tree is

YOUR DIET  Tamika has a Master’s Degree in Dietetics and Nutrition from Florida International University and is a registered dietician with the American Dietetic Association (ADA). She is currently executive director of Nutrition in Demand, a non-profit aimed at increasing awareness to health and healthy eating. For more information email tamikahandfield@yahoo.com or visit www.nutritionindemand.com.

an otherwise understated beauty that requires little maintenance. Tabebuia is perfect for street planting and traffic islands where its durability is appreciated and its beauty provides interest. I think it would be a great feature tree for our sad Providenciales highway.

ASK TAMIKA

BY TAMIKA HANDFIELD

Feet complications related to diabetes

ONE of the many nutritionally related activities being observed this month is Stroke Awareness. This is of particular concern to many in the Turks and Caicos Islands because many persons have either suffered a stroke or know someone who has and now have to deal with the debilitating side effects. This disease has affected people close to me so I have a personal interest in trying to prevent others from having to experience it. There are many risk factors that increase our chances for experiencing a stroke later in life; some of these risks are beyond our control such as being over age 55, being a male, your ethnic group and having a family history of stroke. However, risk factors such as having diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure are totally within our control. Lifestyle behaviours such as smoking, excessively drinking alcohol and being overweight also increase our stroke risk and should be avoided.

So, what exactly is a stroke? It’s a ‘brain attack’ where blood and oxygen flow to other parts of the brain is interrupted either by a blood clot or a tear or rupture in an artery. The brain controls every part of our body so having a stroke may affect our speech, our mobility, our bowel movements, our breathing and even our chewing and swallowing. It is very common for persons who have suffered a stroke to become malnourished as a side effect simply because they cannot eat the foods with the nutrients needed for good health. If you have had a stroke or you know someone who has and you think they have a swallowing issue, it is important that they have a consultation with a speech language pathologist (SLP) to assess the situation. Once the diagnosis of dysphagia

(inability to swallow) is confirmed, a dietician will be able to help the patient get the needed nutrition. Below is a list of tips that can help a stroke patient if he/she has problems with swallowing: -Cut foods into smaller pieces before chewing. -Use a blender or food processor to puree foods to the texture of baby food. -Choose soft foods such as cooked cereal, mashed potatoes, eggs, cottage cheese, applesauce, canned fruits and soups. -Thicken liquids to keep them from going down the wrong pipe. -Sometimes, a feeding tube is needed so that the patient can get the nutrients they need. For more tips on how you can help someone recover from a stroke, please contact me on 242-3978 to make an appointment.

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


May 24 - 30, 2014

Lifestyle... FASHION AND BEAUTY 

17

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

fitness Tip  By Easher Parker

Joe is an orthopaedic surgeon, a sports medicine consultant and director of Prime Sports Medicine in Providenciales. He has 15 years of experience treating amateur and elite athletes and has provided care at World Cup events and Olympic Games. For more information call 232-9563, email jlemoine@primesportsmedicine.com or visit www.primesportsmedicine.com.

By Dr. Joe LeMoine

Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine physician

Easher is a Turks and Caicos Islands native with a natural talent for writing and a love for all things beauty and style. If you have any questions or suggestions for a topic email easherparker@gmail.com. To find out more visit itseasher.com or follow twitter or Instagram @itseasher for fab instant updates.

Crop tops can work for curvier figures SOMETIME last spring, the crop top sensation went into full throttle but it was actually in motion since 2011. Now the new trend seems to be more curvier girls working them. Oh, and I say that with two fab snaps! I am going to give this one a thumbs up and I know right now you are probably thinking, “Why woman?” Have you ever noticed every time you spot a curvaceous diva wearing something totally unexpected you usually take pause, take it all in and embrace it. We all know at least one fullfigured girl that pulls off a lot of looks we often set aside for the slender set. Confidence and understanding your body is the key to getting away with breaking some of the rules. It has worked for me! Now let’s firstly remember fashion is all about having fun, don’t take it too seriously. This does not mean to show up to work dressed as Bozo the clown but if there is something you’d like to try with fashion, you can. Don’t let anyone spoil your fun, even if you just want to try something on at a boutique. Fashion or the fun isn’t exclusive to the ‘modelesque’ ladies. Plus, before you step out in an outfit, you have the following: a mirror, your good judgement and maybe an audience of honest critics, right? If you are a curvier lady looking to be a little more daring by giving crop tops a trial run in your wardrobe, all you have to do to is select the right cut, literally. Crop tops come in a variety these days. Go for something that has a little more coverage over the torso area and of course pair it with a high waist garment. Voila! A midriff look you can pull off. TIP: Turtle neck crop tops may work best for solid gals looking for a sleeveless look. Now, I recommend staying away from pairing crop tops with miniskirts. Fuller figured ladies, you really don’t want to overdo it. However, if you really want a skirt aim for the full A-lines, pencil or midi styles. I love my crop tops with long flared pants, leggings or jeans. This is balancing the look. The balance rule is especially important for the curvy ladies. If you’re revealing up top, cover the bottom. Out of all the rules to break, this isn't one of them! In addition, if you’re worried about your curves disappearing by marrying this law with the crop top look, throw that anxiety out the window! Also pay attention to material. When looking for crop tops you want to look for something that has some stretch but also forms around your back. This will limit the movement of the garment so it won’t roll down or rise up. Are you now a believer in crop tops for the curvy? Whatever you decide on with this one, remember it’s only fashion so have a little fun!

Six challenging sports injuries and their prevention THERE are many things that can be done to prevent injury in sport. Not surprisingly most of these recommendations involve specific modifications to preparation and training. Knee: ACL injury Whenever an athlete injures his knee the first thing we are concerned about the ACL or anterior cruciate ligament. It is an important stabiliser of the knee. While reconstruction surgery is usually successful the rehabilitation period is at least six months before returning to sports. Studies have emphasised that a structured sport specific warm up can reduce the risk of injury. The biggest programme for ACL prevention is the 11+1 warm up proposed by FIFA, the international soccer federation. It is now being adapted to other sports. Shoulder: Rotator cuff tear This is one of the most common shoulder injuries and the risk increases with age. Again the tear can be repaired surgically with great success but the recovery is often at least six months. There are a series of exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff. They involve the use of elastic bands or

pulley systems. They are often overlooked in gym training programmes because they are muscles that cannot be seen so the result means better performance and injury prevention but do not contribute to looking ‘buff’. Thigh: Hamstring tear This is one of the most common injuries and can easily lead to longstanding problems. Unlike other tears, this often repairs on its own, with proper rest. Stretching is very important in prevention. Stretching just before the activity won’t do much; a gain in flexibility requires a structured stretching routine. Once injured sufficient rest is required before return. The old trainer adage is wait until there is no more pain, then wait that much time again. Ankle: Ankle sprain For the most part ankle sprains are simple to manage. But everyone seems to know someone who gets repeat ankle sprains. Although people rely on braces and taping in high-risk sports they forget about exercise to prevent injury. It is recommended that anyone that has an ankle sprain undergo a specific training programme with

emphasis on positional sense, strength and balance to prevent recurrence. Hip: Groin pull This is a frustrating injury to treat. Without proper treatment and rest it can quickly become a chronic injury. In addition to stretching and flexibility, exercise that emphasises core strength provides the muscles a stable platform for contraction and less extreme strains. Head: Concussion The impact of concussion on the lives of many patients and their families has been enormous. In recent years the emphasis has been on recognising and diagnosing concussions. This is also one of the most significant factors for prevention; removing a player from play until complete recovery reduces the risk of recurrent concussions. This coupled with an atmosphere of mutual respect and improved officiating are the keys to making sports safer. The benefits of sports to an individual’s health are tremendous and greatly outweigh the risk of injury. With guided prevention training we can reduce the risk of injury.


18

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 24 - 30, 2014

New Bermuda premier sworn in after Cannonier’s resignation

Is the NSA spying on the Bahamas?

MICHAEL Dunkley was sworn in as Premier of Bermuda during a ceremony at Government House on Tuesday less than 24 hours after 51-year-old Craig Cannonier announced his resignation as a result of the so-called “Jetgate” controversy. Dunkley, the National Security Minister, swore the oath of office before Governor George Fergusson with fellow One Bermuda Alliance (OBA) parliamentarians and family members on hand to lend their support.: “I am humbled by the responsibility I have now been given. Let me first, however, thank former Premier Craig Cannonier. We worked together first in opposition and as his deputy I was grateful for the opportunity he gave to me to serve in cabinet. “I always enjoyed his support as a minister and it cannot be forgotten that he led our party to a significant election victory,” Dunkley said. Cannonier’s 17 months as premier were the shortest in Bermuda’s history, coming after the OBA ended 14 years of Progressive Labour Party (PLP) rule in the December 2012 general election.

HAS the United States National Security Agency been covertly recording and storing all phone calls made in the Bahamas? That’s the allegation in a report by journalist Glenn Greenwald of The Intercept, and in a statement Tuesday the Bahamian government said the report was “startling.” Greenwald’s report was based on documents provided by NSA leaker Edward Snowden, and alleged that the phone surveillance was “part of a top-secret system – codenamed SOMALGET – that was implemented without the knowledge or consent of the Bahamian government.” The programme gave the NSA the ability to “covertly record and store the ‘full take audio’ of every mobile call made to, from and within the Bahamas — and to replay those calls for up to a month,” Greenwald reported. The Bahamian government said that some explanation would be required formally to confirm or deny the truth and authenticity of the allegations.

Craig Cannonier’s 17 months as premier were the shortest in Bermuda’s history. He tendered his resignation as a result of the so-called “Jetgate” controversy.

The OBA inherited a ballooning national debt of US$1.4 billion in the midst of a recession which has now stretched to five years. Dunkley said the foundation for Bermuda’s economic recovery had been set since the election by a “hardworking team of men and women”. “Now I have the honour to lead that team and our mission remains the same — we must renew the promise of this country, we must create jobs

Eight girls from same school reportedly pregnant in T&T TRINIDAD and Tobago’s Education Minister Dr Tim Gopeesingh has requested an immediate investigation be conducted into a report of eight pregnant students at a secondary school in south Trinidad. The pregnant schoolgirls have been identified as

members of the school’s football team while the fathers-to-be are said to be from the same school. The education minister said once the girls are found to be under the age of 16, police must institute criminal proceedings. (Trinidad Express)

for our people, we must educate our children and we must keep Bermuda safe. These are the expectations of the people and we must meet and exceed those expectations each and every day. “I am committed to working hard on finding solutions to our problems and delivering on the promises we made to the people of this country.” Dunkley added that he had no immediate plans to shuffle his cabinet or Senate (Upper House) teams. Cannonier’s resignation was the culmination of a whirlwind 48 hours in which the OBA held several emergency meetings in a bid to stave off an embarrassing departure. The party leadership met again on Monday night and by 9 p.m. (local time) Cannonier’s fate was sealed. Ultimately, the Jetgate row and his alleged dealings with wealthy American developer Nathan Landow proved his undoing, and on Monday night he left Cabinet Office for the last time as Premier to tender his resignation to the Governor. Cannonier thanked his wife Antoinette and his family for their support during his 17 months as leader of the country. “It has been a privilege to have been your Premier,” he said. “You have my best wishes.” The former Premier, who leaves on Tuesday for a holiday abroad, threw his support behind Dunkley and asked that the public do the same. He also pledged to return to the backbenches as MP for Devonshire South Central and to continue to support the OBA administration. The Jetgate blew up after Cannonier and two of his cabinet colleagues — Tourism Minister Shawn Crockwell and Attorney General mark Pettingill — flew to Washington, DC on Landow’s private jet last year.

Barbados highest broadband penetration in Caribbean BARBADOS has the highest broadband penetration of any country in the Caribbean, according to a new study from the Inter-American Development Bank. The IDB’s DigiLAC index compared regional countries by using 37 indicators chosen on the basis of four pillars: public policy and strategic vision, strategic regulation, ifnrastructure and applications and knowledge. “In a modern society, broadband is the key ingredient of the public policy agenda for speeding up

economic growth and reducing inequality,” said Antonio GarcíaZaballos, who is leading the IDB’s broadband initiative. The IDB said the worst bottleneck for broadband penetration was high costs for users. In Latin America and the Caribbean, the cost is eight times what it is in OECD countries. “It is essential to have the right regulatory frameworks so as to encourage competition, transparency and the legal security needed to stimulate the necessary investment,” Garcia-

Zaballos said. After Barbados was Panama, followed by Colombia, Mexico and Jamaica in the ranking. A recent IDB study found that a 10 percent increase in broadband penetration carries with it an average 3.2 percent jump in Gross Domestic Product. See below for the full rankings (the study did not include overseas territories, departments or Dominica, Grenada, St Lucia, St Kitts and Nevis or St Vincent and the Grenadines.) (Caribjournal)

“The news that there is spying and the collecting of the audio of mobile phone calls of Bahamians by agencies of another country is clearly startling,” the Bahamian Foreign Ministry said in the statement. “The facts must be determined. Otherwise, the behavior described would be clearly illegal and on the face of it an abuse of powers. It would also represent a great moral failing on the part of its perpetrators, in addition to illegality which challenges the founding principles of the rule of law. It would also be an invasion of the privacy of the individual, a cherished democratic value and a legal right.” The Bahamian government said it the country’s Charge in Washington, DC had contacted the US [State Department] for an explanation, and that it expected Ambassador Eugene Newry to meet with the US [State Department] Tuesday. “We shall continue to keep the Bahamian people informed as we seek to discover what this is about and what it means,” the Ministry said. (CJ)

DR legislators approve citizenship bill LEGISLATORS on Friday unanimously approved a bill they say would allow thousands of people of Haitian descent born in the Dominican Republic the opportunity to obtain naturalized citizenship. The Dominican lower house originally was expected to create a committee to analyze the bill, but legislators noted there was an urgency to vote on the measure filed this week by President Danilo Medina’s office. The proposal now goes to the Senate for debate. “No other issue has generated so much interest,” legislator Ruben Maldonado said. Anibal de Castro, the Dominican Republic’s ambassador to the U.S., praised the measure. “The government is providing a practical solution that ensures the fundamental rights of all persons residing in the Dominican Republic, especially those born and raised in the country,” he said in a statement. Medina submitted the bill after a court last year issued a muchcriticized ruling that would allow the government to strip the citizenship of thousands of people born to migrants living illegally in the Dominican

Republic. Human rights groups have estimated that about 200,000 people could lose their citizenship, the majority of them of Haitian descent, but the government maintains that only some 24,000 people would be affected, with some 13,000 of them of Haitian ancestry. Medina’s bill seeks to uphold citizenship rights for children born to foreign parents, but only those registered with the government and who have various identification documents. Critics have noted that many people do not possess those documents or have had them seized by government officials, which would force them to register as aliens in their birthplace. Juliana Deguis Pierre, a woman of Haitian descent who has been fighting for her Dominican citizenship, said she hopes the measure achieves what it promises. “I hope to God they give (my citizenship) back to me because of everything I’ve been through and everything I’ve suffered,” she said in an interview. Deguis, 29, was barred earlier this year from flying to the U.S. to meet with a human rights body.


May 24 - 30, 2014

Regional News

CLICO up for sale in T&T CENTRAL Bank Governor Jwala Rambarran confirmed this week that the Colonial Life Insurance Company Ltd (CLICO) was up for sale. Further, the Central Bank was in the market for a buyer. In a press statement issued on Monday, Rambarran explained: “As part of the resolution strategy for CLICO, the Central Bank proposes to transfer CLICO’s traditional insurance portfolio for value to an acquiring insurance company that is well capitalised, has a proven track record and the capacity to honour all obligations to policyholders.” Rambarran said to achieve this objective, the insurance portfolio is being evaluated by an independent valuation company. “An independent actuarial firm has, therefore, been engaged to value CLICO’s traditional business for this purpose and the exercise is still in progress,” he said. “Subsequently, the Central Bank

will conduct the process for the sale and transfer of CLICO’s traditional insurance portfolio on a transparent, open market basis. The bank has neither engaged with any prospective buyers nor made any decision on the structure of the portfolio transfer,” he said. Rambarran noted that pursuant to Section 44D of the Central Bank Act, the Central Bank was in control of CLICO which started on February 13, 2009, in order to safeguard the interests of policyholders and creditors and to prevent disruption, substantial damage or impairment of our financial system. “The Central Bank is the only entity empowered to restructure the business or undertakings of CLICO, in accordance with the provisions of the Act,” he said. The Government said it has spent close to TT$25 billion since it acquired the cash-strapped insurance company from Lawrence Duprey in 2009. (Trinidad Express)

Leading Caribbean authority on HIV dismissed following “anti-gay statement” THE University of the West Indies (UWI) has confirmed the dismissal of one of the region’s leading authorities on the HIV epidemic in the Caribbean, following a statement he made during a high profile case in Belize. UWI said that it had terminated the contract of Professor Brendan Bain, one of the pioneers in clinical infectious disease, as the director of the Caribbean HIV/AIDS Regional Training (CHART) Network. UWI said it had become increasingly evident that the academic has lost the confidence and support of a significant sector of the community, which the CHART programme is expected to reach. Professor Bain had provided a statement in a high-profile court case in Belize, in which Caleb Orozco, a gay man and president of the United Belize Advocacy Movement (UNIBAM), had challenged the constitutionality of an 1861 law that criminalises men having sex with men (MSM). At least 35 advocacy groups had written to the UWI Vice-Chancellor Professor E Nigel Harris, indicating that they had lost confidence in Bain as the head of CHART following his statement in the case. The groups, which called for Bain’s removal, had also argued that while the academic had made it clear that the written testimony was his entitled opinion, it was still in conflict with his leadership of CHART. The UWI in its statement said

19

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

“Rollover” rationale revisited in the Cayman Islands LEGISLATIVE Assembly statements in late 2003 during a lengthy debate on what came to be known as the “rollover policy” incorrectly identified the United Kingdom’s – and Cayman’s – legal obligations to non-Caymanian residents who lived in the British Overseas Territory for 10 years or more, the Cayman Compass has learned. The issue revolves around the application of the European Convention on Nationality, first approved by the European Union in 1997, to local immigration policies. Local attorney Sophia Harris said last week that despite statements made by lawmakers in support of the Immigration Bill that created the term limit policy for non-Caymanian residents in January 2004, that convention had, and currently has, no application to either the U.K. or the Cayman Islands. According to Hansard records of a Legislative Assembly debate on the introduction of the “rollover policy,” then-Leader of Government Business McKeeva Bush noted the following: “Recent experiences have led us to accept that, in the future, the Cayman Islands will have to be more mindful

of international views on human rights, particularly in relation to the rights of residency and citizenship for long-term residents, including work permit holders. Therefore ... we have had careful regard to these internationally recognized standards in crafting our new immigration policy and legislation. “This accords with the European Convention on Nationality, to which the United Kingdom became a party in 1997, and our own past immigration legislation, which provided for the possibility of applying for a grant of Caymanian status after ten years of residence.” Mr. Bush’s remarks were made in the context of more than 6,000 nonCaymanian residents who, as of late 2003, had been in the jurisdiction for at least 10 years, some for more than 30 years, without receiving any security of tenure. Other Legislative Assembly members who contributed to the “rollover” debate on Dec. 15 and 16, 2003, in the assembly chambers referenced the 10-year period identified in the convention as part of the reasons to support such a policy. The European convention itself states, “each state party shall

provide in its internal law for the possibly of naturalization of persons lawfully and habitually resident in its territory. In establishing the conditions for naturalisation it shall not provide for a period of residence exceeding 10 years before the lodging of an application.” Although the U.K. is an EU Council of Europe member state, it has never signed on to the Convention on Nationality and the convention does not apply to the Cayman Islands. “Our position has always been that [the convention] has no direct application to the Cayman Islands,” Attorney General Sam Bulgin said Tuesday. Asked why he did not immediately clarify the former leader’s statement in the assembly regarding the convention’s application, Mr. Bulgin replied: “It doesn’t work that way.” Nine years later, in a separate evaluation of the territory’s Immigration Law, the Term Limit Review Committee, led by local attorney Sherri Bodden-Cowan, who also advised on the initial creation of the “rollover” policy, posed the question a different way.

FNM’s Bostwick dismissed as senator after “ammunition” find Professor Brendan Bain, director of the university’s Caribbean HIV/AIDS Regional Training Programme (CHART), told the Belize Supreme Court that countries which have repealed their buggery laws have seen an increase in HIV/AIDS rate among the population of men who have sex with men (MSM).

many authorities familiar with the brief presented believe that Professor Bain’s testimony supported arguments for the retention of the law thereby contributing to the continued criminalisation and stigmatisation of MSM, which many public health experts believe violates their human rights and puts them at even higher risk of contracting HIV. “The majority of HIV and public health experts believe that criminalising men having sex with men and discriminating against them violates their human rights, puts them at even higher risk, reduces their access to services, forces the HIV epidemic underground, thereby increasing the HIV risk.

JOHN Bostwick has lost his position as senator in the FDM after an alleged ammunition find last Saturday while he was at a domestic section at the Grand Bahama International Airport. The FNM leader Hubert Minnis made the disclosure on Wednesday in a letter to the Governor General of the Bahamas Sir. Arthur Foulkes. Up to press time Minnis had not named a replacement. Earlier in the week Bostwick vowed that he “will fight” the charge of ammunition possession brought against him. “I am not a criminal, I remain that born free-nationalist and I will fight this,” Mr Bostwick, who was flanked by his family, told reporters after he posted his bail. Mr Bostwick was arraigned before Chief Magistrate Joyann FergusonPratt for the alleged possession of 10 live rounds of .22 ammunition which were found on Saturday, May 17. He pleaded not guilty to the charge and was released on $9,000 bail. Less than an hour before uttering these words, the 42-year-old, dressed in a three-piece business suit with a jacket folded over his arm, was flanked by four policemen who escorted him into the Nassau and

Senator John Bostwick arrives at court, with a suit jacket draped over his handcuffs. (Photo: Tim Clarke/Tribune Staff)

South Streets complex to face the criminal charge. As he waited nearly 30 minutes to be arraigned, the now ex-senator was seen reading his Bible as the magistrate dealt with other matters. His mother, Janet Bostwick, a former minister of foreign affairs and attorney general, FNM Chairman Darron Cash and other supporters were present in court. It is claimed that Mr Bostwick, not being the holder of a firearms certificate granting permission, was in possession of 10 live rounds of .22

ammunition on Saturday, May 17. According to reports, the accused was in the domestic section of the Grand Bahama International Airport when, during a routine check, airport security allegedly discovered a quantity of ammunition in his luggage. An X-ray machine security officer noticed a suspicious object in the bag allegedly carried by the 42-year-old and alerted the police at the airport. The officers checked the bag and allegedly found 10 rounds of .22 ammunition.


20

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 24 - 30, 2014

Russia signs 30-year gas deal with China RUSSIA’S President Vladimir Putin has signed a multi-billion dollar, 30year gas deal with China. The deal between Russia’s Gazprom and China National Petroleum Corp (CNPC) has been 10 years in the making. Russia has been keen to find an alternative energy market for its gas as it faces the possibility of European sanctions over the crisis in Ukraine. No official price has been given but it is estimated to be worth over $400bn. President Putin said in a statement to the Russian news channel Rossiya: “The price is satisfactory for both sides. “It is tied, like it is envisaged in all our international contracts with Western partners, specifically our partners in Western Europe, to the market price on oil and oil products. It is an absolutely calibrated, general formula for pricing.” Gazprom shares rose 2% on the news. The agreement, signed at a summit in Shanghai, is expected to deliver some 38 billion cubic metres of natural gas a year eastward to China’s burgeoning economy, starting around 2018. The main argument has been over price and China is thought to have

A knife-wielding attacker on a rampage at a Chinese primary school in Macheng wounded eight schoolchildren.

Gazprom CEO Alexei Miller (centre) and CNPC Chairman Zhou Jiping shake hands as Russian President Putin looks on during the signing ceremony in Shanghai.

been driving a hard bargain. Over the last 10 years it has found other gas suppliers. Turkmenistan is now China’s largest foreign gas supplier, and last year it started importing piped natural gas from Myanmar. Alexei Miller, Chief Executive of Gazprom said the new deal was “the biggest contract in the entire history of the USSR and Gazprom - over 1 trillion cubic metres of gas will be supplied during a whole contractual period.” Rain Newton-Smith, head

of emerging markets at Oxford Economics, said: “The whole tenet of the deal has a symbolic value - it says that the two countries are prepared to work with one another. For instance there were other elements such as Chinese participation in Russian transport infrastructure and power generation. “It is similar in many ways to China’s investments in Africa where they drive a hard bargain over the price of raw materials but then provide infrastructure for the economies they are doing business with.

Chinese man attacks playground, injuries eight with meat cleaver A MAN armed with a meat cleaver rushed onto a playground and slashed eight children during a manic attack at a Chinese elementary school. Horrifying photos of the frenzied chase at the Macheng school showed the man wielding the knife above his head as he lunged at one child. No one was killed during the rampage, but eight students — believed to be between 6 and 8 years old — were taken to a local hospital, the London Evening Standard reported. One of the students was seriously injured.

Chinese police arrested the suspect, 35-year-old Chen Zuihang, at the scene, the South China Morning Post reported. Police have not determined a motive. One of the children was seriously hurt, police said. The shocking attack isn’t the first of its kind in China. In 2010, seven students and two teachers were killed during another meat cleaver attack at a school near Hanzhong City. In 2012, another 22 schoolchildren were stabbed at a Chengping school. (NYdailynews)

Chicago mum broke 3-year-old Bosnian president calls floods ‘the worst daughter’s bones while beating thing’ country has faced since war her to death: prosecutors THE devastating floods in Bosnia and Herzegovina – and throughout the Balkans – are “the worst thing” the country has faced since its deadly civil war two decade ago, President Bakir Izetbegovic told CNN’s Christiane Amanpour on Monday. The cost of the damage will be measure in billions of euros, he told Amanpour. “Hundreds of square kilometers [are] under water; in some parts, in some cities, in some villages in Northern Bosnia there is two or three meters of water,” he said. “So the rivers are out and now it looks like lakes.” The flooding has already killed at least two dozen people in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Massive swaths of Croatia are also submerged. Along with the damage and death caused by floods, many are also concerned about the deadly minefields left in place from the war. “In this moment, there is still water, and still we cannot exactly say what happened with minefields,” President Izetbegovic said. “But for sure they will be displaced. Also the warning marks are removed.”

The flooding has already killed at least two dozen people in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Much of the system of warning signs that kept the country in perilous equilibrium with the mines has also been destroyed. “People…do not think about the mines in this moment. Later, that problem will appear for sure.” Izetbegovic praised the armed forces’ efforts to rescue the stranded, and said more than 3,000 had been airlifted by helicopter. More than 30,000 people have been displaced,

he told Amanpour. Bosnia’s neighbor, Serbia, has also been affected by the floods; the tensions between the countries have remained high since the ethnic cleansing of the 1990s. “In this moment, everybody is helping each other, especially on this level of common people,” Izetbegovic said. Croats are helping Bosniacs, Bosniacs are helping Serbs, he said. (CNN)

A CHICAGO mum beat her 3-yearold daughter to death so badly that the girl’s blood splattered all over her teddy bear and bedding — then the woman called 911 to claim two burglars had done it, prosecutors say. The “horrific allegations” include an autopsy that turned up “possible fractures to several bones” along with missing teeth and bruising all over little Ashley’s broken body, prosecutors said in court Tuesday according to a Chicago Tribune report. Maria Espinoza-Perez, 24, was ordered held without bail and has remained in custody since her arrest Sunday night. The woman called her boyfriend around 8 p.m. that night to tell him about the fabricated breakin and to say Ashley had stopped breathing. Espinoza-Perez then called 911 about 20 minutes later and reported that two men had broken in, hurt the girl and taken off, according to the Tribune. But the allegedly twisted mom later recanted the tale, telling cops she’d been abusing the girl for years and that she’d cleaned up some blood after the attack and had caused some

The young child’s autopsy turned up “possible fractures to several bones” along with missing teeth and bruising all over her little body.

of the injuries. Paramedics who found the girl dead in the kitchen noted scrapes and cuts on the girl’s neck, obvious injuries to her forehead and other places, according to the Tribune. Blood was found in the bathroom and on the girl’s teddy bear, blanket, mattress and on the frame of her crib. A bloody diaper and tissue were found in the trash.


May 24 - 30, 2014

World News

Bronx teacher fired for asking fourthgraders for relationship advice THERE’S no substitute for love. Substitute teacher Cassandre Fiering, 45, was fired by the city after asking fourth-grade students in the Bronx for dating advice, investigators say. Kids at Public School 189 on Steenwick Ave. told officials that on June 12, 2013, she asked them for “counsel” on her love life, according to a report by the Special Commissioner of Investigation . “Fiering told the students that she was dating two men who were in their thirties and she needed advice on which one to choose,” according to documents obtained by the Daily News through a Freedom of Information Request. The bizarre classroom antics were first reported by DNA Info. “Fiering said that one of the men she was dating was a mechanic and that she wanted the students to be her ‘munchkins’ and to go ‘toilet paper’ the boyfriend’s house,” the report reads. Reached on the phone, Fiering said she was mortified by the allegations. “The report is blatant lies,” said Fiering, who is originally from Providence, R.I. “We were talking about relationships, it was

21

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Substitute teacher Cassandre Fiering asked fourth-grade students in the Bronx for advice on her love life, according to investigators.

all theoretical. It was an all-day situation and I was in the room for seven hours without a lesson plan.” During the awkward day, she had the five students under her supervision role play a conversation between her and an ex, according to the investigation. Fiering even asked students to dress up as “demons” to scare one of her lovers, investigators said.

Colombia mourns child victims of deadly bus fire RELATIVES of 33 children who burned to death when a bus caught fire in northern Colombia on Sunday have been taking part in mourning ceremonies. The number of dead rose after a seven-year-old boy died on Monday. They were returning from an event at an evangelical Christian church near the city of Fundacion, about 750km (465 miles) north of the capital, Bogota. Prosecutors said they would charge the driver and the church leader who chartered the bus with manslaughter. They said the driver, 56-yearold Jaime Gutierrez, did not have a driving licence. Moreover, the bus had not passed the necessary technical inspection and lacked mandatory insurance, officials said. Prosecutors alleged church leader Manuel Salvador Ibarra was aware of these facts, and would therefore also be charged with manslaughter on 33 counts. The driver, who had fled the scene of the accident, handed himself in to police after local people threw rocks at his home. Police arrested Mr Ibarra shortly afterwards. An 11-year-old survivor said the fire started when the driver got out of the bus to refuel it from a jerry can.

Residents have been laying flowers at an impromptu memorial at the site of the fire.

Prosecutors said a spark ignited the fuel. Eyewitnesses reported that the fire spread within seconds. “We couldn’t do anything but hold our heads and watch the children burn, Jose Guette told AFP news agency. Forensic experts continue their efforts to identify the victims, many of whom were burned beyond recognition. The victims ranged in age from toddlers to 12 years. Two of the driver’s children are reportedly among those killed. Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos travelled to Fundacion on

Sunday evening to speak to the victims’ relatives. Mr Santos, who is running for re-election in presidential polls on Sunday, promised to improve the safety of Colombia’s public transport. “This is a tragedy which shouldn’t have happened,” he told the grieving families. Leftist presidential candidate Clara Rojas said the accident showed the “backwardness” of the country. “It’s not just the irresponsibility of the driver, but the lack of rigour and presence of the authorities,” she said that allowed the accident to happen. (BBC)

Dozens charged in New York child porn swoop

On Tuesday 118 people died in a double bombing in the central city of Jos, also blamed on Boko Haram.

Nigeria violence: ‘Boko Haram’ kill 27 in village attacks THE Islamist group Boko Haram has been accused of killing at least 27 people in attacks on two villages in north-east Nigeria, close to where hundreds of schoolgirls were seized. Gunmen killed 10 people in the village of Shawa and a further 17 in Alagarno, police and witnesses said. The area is near Chibok, where the schoolgirls were abducted last month. On Tuesday 118 people died in a double bombing in the central city of Jos, also blamed on Boko Haram. The abductions of more than 200 girls caused international outrage and prompted foreign powers, including the US, to send military advisers to

assist Nigeria’s army. In another development on Wednesday, US President Barack Obama said 80 military personnel had been deployed to neighbouring Chad to help search for the missing girls. “These personnel will support the operation of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft for missions over northern Nigeria and the surrounding area,” Mr Obama said in a letter to Congress. Many parts of restive north-east Nigeria are no-go zones for the military and insurgents operate freely there, correspondents say. (BBC)

A POLICE officer, rabbi and a nurse were among more than 70 people arrested in the US for allegedly sharing child pornography online. They were charged as part of a five-week operation led by the US Homeland Security department in New York. More than 600 laptops, smartphones and other computer devices were seized as part of the effort. Officials say many of the defendants had access to young children but there were no reports of abuse. The special agent in charge of investigations at Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in New York said the sheer volume and professional backgrounds of the alleged child porn traders was “troubling”. “We can no longer assume that the only people who would stoop to prey on children are unemployed drifters,” said James Hayes Jr. They began the investigation after the January arrest of a suburban New York police chief, Brian Fanelli, on charges of knowingly receiving and distributing child pornography. Mr Fanelli has pleaded not guilty.

Law enforcement officials displayed some of the hundreds of devices seized during searches.

Beginning in April, Homeland Security agents posed as collectors of child porn who were offering to anonymously trade material through online file-sharing programmes. They then identified the IP address of the sources of the material and subpoenaed internet service providers for the names of the people behind the files. Mr Hayes said some of those arrested seemed eager to admit the guilt when agents went to complete searches of the most active and recent traders.

“We had some individuals tell us, ‘I know why you’re here. I was waiting for this. I knew this would happen someday,’” he said. “That’s not something you find from someone who’s trafficking cocaine or money-laundering.” The seized devices will be examined by agents to catalogue evidence. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children will use its analysts to review the images to see whether it can identify children using databases of known victims. (BBC)


22

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 24 - 30, 2014

Summajam 2014 is looking for girls to showcase their talent Youngsters beautify the surroundings by organising a tree planting and cleaning up the trash

Students help beautify Five Cays community centre STUDENTS from three primary schools in Providenciales participated in a clean-up campaign to help celebrate International Day for Biological Diversity. The day is acknowledged worldwide on May 22 and this year’s theme is ‘Island Biodiversity’. Students from Ianthe Pratt Primary School, Enid Capron Primary School and Best Institute Primary School joined at the Felix Morley Community Centre on Thursday (May 22) to clean up the trash surrounding the area. The 40 students were hard at work from 9am to about 1pm that day. A few teachers from the schools also joined in to help the students with the project. Youth officer Dulcine Hall said that since the community centre is usually used for education related initiatives, they decided that they wanted to beautify it by hosting a

Students and teachers from three Providenciales primary schools clean around the community centre

clean-up and by planting trees. The students were well entertained and collected a lot of trash within a short time frame. The United Nations has

proclaimed May 22 as the International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. (DH)

ORGANISERS of Summajam have confirmed final plans for the cultural festival that annually takes place in Grand Turk. And they are looking for women to showcase their musical talents or enter one of the event’s pageants. The exciting three-day event, which brings people from all over the Islands and overseas, will be held this year at the Victoria Library Courtyard and climax at Governor’s Beach. The event is scheduled to take place on Thursday (June 26) to Saturday (June 28) and will consist of the Miss Teen Grand Turk for girls between the ages of 13 to 17, Miss Grand Turk for young ladies between the ages of 18 to 25, musical entertainment by DJ Shakes, the Band Boyz and a host of local talent. The 2014 Grand Turk Music Awards will honour this year’s awardees, entertainers and musicians. Also entertaining attendees will be Keno and Kazz, a

special overseas celebrity guest entertainer and finally a beach volleyball tournament on Governor’s Beach. Current Miss Turks and Caicos winner, Shanice Williams, who was also Summajam’s 2013 winner will be at the festival. Representative from the organising committee, Rita Gardiner, said that the committee is exceedingly proud and overjoyed to welcome two of Grand Turk’s 2013 Summajam contestants, Williams and winner of Top Model 2014, Brielle Swann. Young girls and ladies wishing to enter the pageants and those wishing to sing, dance or display a talent at the festival should contact any of the committee members - Rita Gardiner, Brenda Lightbourne, Thelma Van Alstine, Kandra Malcolm, Rosanna Henry or Sugarray Forbes, as soon as possible. For more information those interested can call 231-0312. (DH)


May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

23


24 NEWS

May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Key West Village opens with grand celebration BEACHES Turks and Caicos’ newest addition, Key West Luxury Village marked its opening with an illustrious ceremony and spectacular celebration last Sunday (May 18) at the resort’s premises. Dignitaries from around the Caribbean as well as the TCI joined the Beaches’ team for the event in Grace Bay, Providenciales, lavish in food, entertainment and words of admiration and praise. From arrival, the guests dressed in white attire were greeted grandly and indulged in a variety of delicious delights and an abundance of enchanting entertainment. The ceremony kicked off with a performance by the school choir from Enid Capron Primary, the resort’s adopted local school, followed by heartwarming congratulatory remarks and speeches from the notables present. These included Premier of the TCI Rufus Ewing, prime minister of Jamaica Portia Simpson- Miller, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Culture of Antigua, John Maginley, Minister of Tourism and Entertainment of Jamaica, Dr Kenneth McNeill, Minister of Tourism, Heritage and Creative Industries of Saint Lucia, Lorne Theophilus, Deputy Governor of the TCI Anya Williams and PDM Leader Sharlene Cartwright Robinson. The Jamaican PM applauded chairman of Sandals and Beaches Resorts Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart as a son of Jamaica and the Caribbean and urged everyone in the tourism industry to push boundaries and maintain high standards so that it can flourish. Stewart was also commended for their significant help in the communities through the resort’s philanthropic work and the educational opportunities offered to their staff. Premier Rufus Ewing said the “resort is the epitome of what we want to see for Turks and Caicos as a destination” and acknowledged that it is responsible for over 50 per cent of the airlift to the islands. He said that the country and the Government are more prosperous because of the significant impact Beaches has on the tourism industry and the creations of jobs, despite the fact that some expertise is imported. Sharing the sentiments that the resort is indeed a ‘jewel’ in the Caribbean were representatives from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences who awarded a Six-Star Diamond Award to the property. President of the Academy Joseph Cinque said that the all-inclusive family resort is well-deserving and has blown them away with the outstanding food, services and

Gordon Stewart is joined by TCI and Caribbean dignitaries for the cutting of the ribbon to the Key West Luxury Village

Chairman of Sandals and Beaches Resorts Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart is one the Caribbean’s most well-known businessmen

Guest speaker Jamaica’s prime minister Portia Simpson-Miller

Beaches’ Sesame Street friends join in the celebration

CEO of Sandals and Beaches Resort, Adam Stewart


May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 25

A gracious crowd joins in the official opening and celebration of Beaches’ fourth village

A display shows the renewed focus on striking images to grace the pages of Destination 2015

Destination book launches new concept A Six-Star Diamond Award from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences highlights the event

amenities. With great admiration Cinque said: “Butch Stewart is King of the Caribbean, there’s no question” and his resorts are the “first sixstar properties in any part of the Caribbean.” Stewart was very pleased to have everyone at the event see the new village, which he believes is and will remain a real contributor to Sandals, Beaches and to the TCI. He is positive that the product will contribute to the revenue, the growth, the popularity and the fame of the Turks and Caicos Islands. “I’ve watched this place develop since ‘95 when we came here and we have grown every year since our existence. “Even in ‘09 after the big dip we grew a little bit, and that’s a test to the people, the strength of the product

and the strength of the people that mange the product,” he said. Stewart did not hesitate to thank Beaches general manager Donald Dagenais and his team for their work in making it the success it is today. “I’m a product of the people that make up the property…there are so many people that work in our company that get up every day to see that everything is done properly, to make customers happy.” The Key West Village is the fourth to be added to the all-inclusive luxury resort since it first opened in 1997. It adds an incredible block of rooms, 19 restaurants, great comprehensive services and vast amenities. CEO of Sandals and Beaches Resort, Adam Stewart said that as he grew up he has been able to watch the enterprise grow from one man

to 12,000 team members, the largest private employer in the Caribbean. Adam Stewart said that they only keep getting better because every year they try to figure out a little bit more of what couples want and what families need and what’s important to the younger children and even teenagers. He commended one of their partners, Sesame Street, which he said help to inspire and teach them about the importance of children and how to keep everybody happy; making the resort the ultimate vacation spot. After Father Been blessed the property, the Stewarts were joined by dignitaries for the ribbon cutting. The celebrations continued with a grand display of fireworks, music and even more entertainment delivered in fine style. (KH)

AFTER nine years of Destination Turks and Caicos Islands, a new, more artistic concept is being launched. This announcement was made at a launch event on May 19 at Footprints on the Beach Villa in Leeward, Providenciales. Advertising manager of Times Publications, Claire Parrish, said the book “will be a new luxury photo art book…a completely different dimension to bring in the landscape photography and absolutely stunning photo art.” Contact information, taglines and captions are about all that will accompany the pictures, as most of the text will be removed, allowing it be a truly visual book. There will be 13 ‘Destination’ style chapters including island hoping and dining, and there will only be tiny text intros and of course advertisements of all sizes. Parrish said that it is still a Turks and Caicos Hotel Association’s book so there will be acknowledgments through photos of all of the association’s member hotels and a list of allied members in a directory format. During the casual afternoon event, attendees were shown a short film ‘Stand in your guests’ shoes for just a moment’ and advertisers were also given a special deal on ad bookings. They were also engaged in a presentation by Angela Musgrove about ‘The power of the print ad’ where she recapped through history the strong influence that a captivating image can command. The 2015 edition, called ‘Destination 2015 Turks and Caicos Islands’ is, as always, scheduled to go into the hotel rooms on December 1 this year.


26 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Turks and Caicos Haitians united for Haitian Flag Day RED and blue adorned the streets of Providenciales and Grand Turk this past weekend for the annual Haitian Flag Day celebration. Hundreds of Haitian nationals in the Turks and Caicos Islands took to the streets in their native colours and attended parades, concerts, football games and an official church mass to recognise the 211th anniversary of

the Haitian flag. The celebration began with a cocktail reception hosted by the Haitian consulate on Friday night (May 16) at the Zanzi Bar and Lounge in Providenciales. Haitian culture was displayed at the swanky cultural party where continued 

27

TCI Haitian community on a Haitian inspired float preparing for parade

Young lady representing the Haitian flag colours; Miss Turks and Caicos Universe 2014, Shanice Williams and Haitian consul for trade and culture, Margarette Lemaire at the Zanzi Bar cocktail party

Prominent figures in the TCI, including Premier, show respect during a special Haitian Flag Day church service

Hundreds of teachers honoured in Grand Turk banquet TEACHERS were honoured for their contributions to the field of education during a recent banquet in Grand Turk. The Rotaract Club of Grand Turk held a banquet under the patronage of the Deputy Governor Anya Williams under the theme ‘Hands that help to shape our future’, on Friday (May 16). The event which sought to honour almost 200 past and present teachers was deemed a huge success by the Deputy Governor who commended the Rotaract Club on their efforts. “I was delighted to host the Rotaract banquet under my patronage and wish to commend them on their vision and foresight in seeing fit to organise such an

efforts and on their sterling efforts to pay recognition to such a large group of persons that have had contributed to the education sector in Grand Turk,” she said. She added that teaching is a noble profession wherein people give themselves each day to impart knowledge and wisdom into others. “We will never be able to fully repay these persons for what they have done for us, but I do hope that this event served to remind these persons that they are indeed appreciated.” She congratulated the organisers on the huge success of the event and said she looked forward to working with the Rotaract Club in Grand Turk in other areas of mutual interest, going forward.

Deputy Governor and TCI Premier pose with educators

May 24 - 30, 2014


May 24 - 30, 2014

Entertainment

27

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Iran ‘releases’ dancers from Pharrell Happy tribute video A GROUP of Iranians who were arrested for filming a video tribute to Pharrell Williams’ song Happy have been released on bail, reports from Tehran suggest. One of the fans, fashion photographer Reihane Taravati, posted a photo on Instagram, saying: “Hi, I’m back.” She and her colleagues were arrested on Tuesday. Police said their “vulgar clip” had “hurt public chastity”. The video showed three men and three unveiled women dancing on the streets and rooftops of Tehran.

Williams, whose song was nominated for an Oscar earlier this year, had protested at the arrests. “It is beyond sad that these kids were arrested for trying to spread happiness,” the singer wrote on Facebook. Many Twitter users had used the hashtag #freehappyiranians to put pressure on the Iranian authorities to release the dancers. Announcing her release, Taravati wrote: “Hi I’m back. Thank you @ pharrell and everyone who cared about us love you all so much and missed you so much.”

Dancers from Haitian Cultural Organisation perform authentic Haitian pieces

Turks and Caicos Haitians ... continued 

Haitian consul, Karlo Pelissier, and consul for trade and culture, Margarette Lemaire, officially launched the events. Lemaire told the Weekly News that from pictures that she has seen in previous years of the event, it has definitely seen progress, but there is still room for more improvement. “I think they still need to get together a little bit more and plan this event,” she said. Lemaire added that this should not be a business opportunity, but more of a time for Haitians to unite. The attendees had the opportunity to experience Haitian cuisine, Rum Barbancourt, Prestige beer, Coffee Selecto and the traditional sweet treat Dous Makos by La Confiserie Soulouquoise. The night featured dancers from the Haitian Cultural Organisation who performed authentic ‘Ayisien’ and ‘Racine’ pieces. On Saturday (May 17), celebrations continued with a float parade as hundreds of Haitians clad in ‘rouje et bleu’ decorated their cars with the Haitian flag and held a procession from Downtown Providenciales to the TCI National Stadium for a highly anticipated football game. The game featured the Haitian

players on the Turks and Caicos National All Stars Team vs the Haiti based Tempête FC. In true Haitian Flag Day spirit, the Haitian team came out victorious winning the game four to nothing. Sunday (May18), at the Church of God of Prophecy in Kew Town, an official Haitian Flag Day mass was organised by the consulate in conjunction with the Haitian religious leaders. It is the first time that the religious community had the occasion to celebrate their flag in this manner. The commemorative church service brought together members of the Haitian clergy, Premier Rufus Ewing, leader of the official Opposition, PDM, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson and dignitaries from the Haitian consulate. Following the mass a special guest of the consulate Jean Elie Gilles addressed the crowd on the historic significance of the Haitian flag. The weekend’s events concluded with a KLASS concert at the Williams Auditorium hosted by SakPaseTCI. The event was attended by members of the Haitian community, officials of the Turks and Caicos Islands, members of the business community, Miss Turks and Caicos Universe 2014 Shanice Williams and Miss Turks and Caicos 2013 Snwazna Adams. (DH)

The International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran (ICHRI) reported that the other dancers seen in the video had also been released. “All people who made the Happy video released today, except the director of video, a source close to the families said,” the organisation tweeted. The “Happy we are from Tehran” video, originally posted in March, has now been seen more than 40,000 times. At the end of the clip, the credits read:

The video shows people dancing to Pharrell’s single in and around Tehran.

“Happy was an excuse to be happy. We enjoyed every second of making it. Hope it puts a smile on your face.” According to some reports, a

total of 13 people were arrested in connection with the video, but official sources have not confirmed the exact number of detainees.


28

Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 24 - 30, 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 24 - 30, 2014

29

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

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

PRICE SLASHED

PRICE SLASHED $175,000 FOR QUICK SALE

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

Call: 231-3788


NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION RBC Royal Bank (Bahamas) Limited of Raleigh House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following properties pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands CAP 9.01:

1. Registered Proprietor: Jeffrey C. Hall

Block 40205 Parcel 15, Central Bambarra, Middle Caicos. The property is a single approximately rectangular lot of land with a wider north end and good elevation. The land is generally sloping steadily down from south to north and a distant ocean view is available from most of the land. The subject land is located within a subdivision comprising various sized residential lots that has been laid out with tarmac or marl roads.

2. Registered Proprietor: Melicia Latoya Fredericks

Block 60809, Parcel 211K4 - Unit #4, Miss Moonies Development, Leeward Highway, Providenciales. The property forms a condominium unit which is located in the Miss Moonies development located in the Bight and Thomas Stubbs area of Providenciales on the Leeward Highway four lots to the east of the Sandcastle Road roundabout on the south side of the road.

The development altogether comprises:

A single retail/ restaurant premises on the Leeward Highway frontage and a two storey rear accommodation block, which houses 6 one bedroom and 2 two bedroom condominium units. In addition, there is a communal swimming pool, deck, parking area, bar, and other associated stores and external ancillary facilities.

Unit K4 comprises:

a ground floor two bedroom, one bathroom condominium unit access to which is provided off the ground floor communal; walkway. It also benefits from pool views from the external communal terrace, open plan living/ dining area and master bedroom.

3. Registered Proprietor: Provo Construction Supplies Limited

Block 60809 Parcel 29, The Bight and Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales. The property has been cleared and is generally rectangular and fairly flat. Surrounding development is mainly residential development at present in the form of apartments or houses. The tier of highway fronting land is commercially zoned on both sides of the highway. The property is served with power and city water and is close to most usual amenities and within half a mile of the main Grace Bay Road tourist and business area.

4. Registered Proprietor: Jeffrey Christoval Hall

May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Block 60715 Parcel 196, Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill, Providenciales. The property is located in the Behind Glass Shack area of Providenciales. It has been cleared and is a virtually rectangular, narrow and flat parcel with a pointed end to the east. Surrounding development is mainly apartments and residences. The property is served with power and city water which is connected to the properties with units separately metered. The property has the benefit of:

MONTE RESTAURANT

LIVINGSTON LIGHTBOURNE

Is seeking suitable applicants to fill the following openings:

is looking for an

Cook Waitress

Artist

Must have at least 5 years experience. Belongers only need apply. Must be willing to work extended hours. Salary is negotiable.

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

Fax: 649941-8388

contact: 243-0506

Applications deadline: June 5th, 2014 9884

DENISE SMITH

MORENCY SALOMON

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

a. one two storey apartment building to the west of the lot; b. one two bedroom house with loft room in the middle; and c. one two bedroom house one the east side of the lot.

5. Registered Proprietor: Club Nowhere Limited

Block 10103 Parcel 81, East Suburbs, Grand Turk. The property forms part of the area known as East Suburbs in the north east corner of the island of Grand Turk. The land is found some three hundred yards to the north of The Arches town home development along Lighthouse Road and is accessed via a lane that runs to the west off this road. The land is one lot west of the main road and is approximately rectangular enjoying frontage from its longer southern boundary onto the marl access road leading from Lighthouse Road. The land generally slopes down from east to west with a number of undulations and it enjoys good views to the west across the nearby North Creek and also distant views of the ocean to the west.

6. Registered Proprietor: Jeffrey Christoval Hall

Block 60900, Parcel 29, Leeward Going Through, Providenciales. The property holds a residence, which comprises a detached single storey residence and further comprises of: a. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, an open plan living/ dining area, kitchen and covered deck; and b. A two bedroom guest house with an open deck at the rear of the residence.

7. Registered Proprietor: Provo Construction Supplies Limited.

Block 60809 Parcel 186, The Bight and Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales. The land is located on the north side of the Leeward Highway to the east of the junction with Sandcastle Road and is the second lot east of the roundabout. The property is a single approximately rectangular lot of land with an angled west boundary. The land is generally flat apart from a slope down from south to north at the north end of the parcel. A distant an ocean view is available from parts of the land and there is approximately 190 linear feet of highway frontage.

The auction will be held at the offices of Karam Missick Attorneys, P.O. Box 926, A 201 - A203 Regent Village, Grace Bay, Providenciales, at 10 o’clock in the morning on Friday the 6th day of June, 2014. A reserve price will be fixed on the Properties. A deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids. Terms and Conditions of Sale by Auction are available by request from RBC Royal Bank (Bahamas) Limited (649) 9417430.

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

salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 346-4624

9871

30 CLASSIFIEDS

contact: 343-7748

NEAL’S CABINETRY & SUBCONTRACTING is looking for a

CARPENTER Must be able to work alone. Must be able to verify skills. Salary $10.00 per hour

Contact: 431-1928 9868

PUBLIC AUCTION

ON THE FOLLOWING ITEMS • New Clothes (Gowns, Shirt, Pants, Shoes and etc). • Pool Table • Rolex watches (Male and Female) To be held at the Supreme Court for the Month of JUNE 2014 until all items are sold. CASH SALE ONLY, No warranties, No Returns

TEL: 946-4215 or 3384895 This Advertisement is authorized by the Bailiff of the Supreme Court, Providenciales.

PAUL HIGGS NORTH CAICOS Is looking for a

labourer to work 5 days per week salary $7.00 per hour

contact: 243-1210


May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

HOLE IN THE WALL

CROWN LAND UNIT

Domestic Worker Salary will commensurate with qualification Resumes can be faxed to 941-3425 and the Labour Department, Providenciales as soon as possible

ROYAL JEWELS Is looking for a

CLASSIFIEDS 31

Attorney General’s Chambers Government Compound (Off Pond Street) Grand Turk Turks and Caicos Islands LANDS DIVISION Telephone: (649) 946-2801/338-2644 Facsimile: (649) 946-1145

PUBLIC NOTICE 9887

SANDBAR

Notice is hereby given that following the Drawing of Lots (Ballots), which took place on Monday 10th March 2014, and the approval granted by Cabinet on 30th April 2014, the Table below lists the order in which the applicants’ names were drawn for the available fifteen (15) residential crown land parcels that were advertised as part of the Residential Allocation Scheme No. GDT001 in Block 10202, situate at North West Suburbs, Grand Turk. The successful persons are the first fifteen (15) applicants on the list, and the parcels approved for allocation to them are also listed against their names. The persons listed from No. 16 (16) to No. 34 (34) were unsuccessful.

Is seeking a

This notice is published in order to satisfy the public notification requirement of Schedule 2, Part A of the Crown Land Ordinance 2012. Table A: List of all Applicants for Crown Land in Block 10202 under the Residential Scheme No. GDT001

Janitorial

Staff

To work 4 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 946-4699

TDMG CONCORDIA Is seeking suitable applicants to fill the following positions:

COOK Must be willing to work flexible hours including evenings and holidays Salary $7.00 per hour.

Contact: Jonathan @ 232-4933

9872

OJ CAICOS GLASS Providenciales Telephone:231-6260

Carpenter Labourer

Must have at least 5 years experience. Belongers only need apply. Must be willing to work extended hours Salary is negotiable

Fax: 649-941-8388 Application deadline: June 5th, 2014 9883

LABOURER Salary $5.00 per hour.

9886

School For Field Studies, South Caicos Waterfront Assistant- Center for Marine Resource Studies

Job Summary: The purpose of this position is to provide support in the areas of program delivery, academics, research, program safety and site maintenance. Qualifications: Active Dive Master Cert. and Insurance, Current CPR/First Aid, BA/BS in Marine Science/ Policy, Small boat experience. To Apply: Please send your CV to RDAKE@ FIELDSTUDIES.ORG by June 30, 2014. Start Date: August 2014

ORDER OF PARCEL Applicant Applicant Co-Applicant Co-Applicant DRAWN LOTS NO. First Name Last Name First Name Last Name GDT 006 (1) 10202/055 ARNISIQUE MATICA WILSON GDT 028 (2) 10202/057 INGA LOIS TAYLOR GDT 005 (3) 10202/063 MICHELE MARISSA FORBES GDT 003 (4) 10202/064 CRYSENNE CORDERRO DICKENSON GDT 004 (5) 10202/065 ALEX MARLEX BENNETT GDT 019 (6) 10202/068 NARADA ROBERTO WILLIAMS GDT 030 (7) 10202/069 ANTHONY CLEOPHAS MCINTOSH GDT 018 (8) 10202/070 RAYAN DOUGLAS GODET GDT 026 (9) 10202/089 LUCINDA REE BROWN NICKINA REGINA WILLIAMS GDT 023 (10) 10202/091 BERDETTE VERA ROLLE MARVIN DEON ROLLE GDT 029 (11) 10202/096 KEANDREA CIANNE GARLAND GDT 024 (12) 10202/099 LABRICIA ANDREA GARDINER GDT 012 (13) 10202/100 DAPHNE LEEANN MISSICK GDT 017 (14) 10202/101 RAYMONDA MAY BROWN GDT 007 (15) 10202/103 SIGRID ELIZABETH SELVER GDT 014 (16) - JAMAL MARIO WILLIAMS GDT 027 (17) - LEKENSAY KIESMO DOVNO MISSICK GDT 020 (18) - JANELLE PETRAICE HAMILTON SARDRICA NANCY HAMILTON GDT 008 (19) - MIKAEL SHADAI MISICK-SMITH GDT 022 (20) - SHARANNA KAYENNIA SIMMONS GDT 021 (21) - TIAWANNA ANTONIA WILLIAMS GDT 032 (22) - FELLER NATHENIAL SMITH GDT 016 (23) - TAKISHA ANDREA WILLIAMS GDT 025 (24) - DIANNA INA SKIPPINGS GDT 034 (25) - SHAKITA SHARENE MISSICK GDT 013 (26) - DEXTER ANTHONY ASTWOOD GDT 015 (27) - PAMELA ANGEL ROSETTA CLARKE GDT 010 (28) - DOMINIC CONSIDINE SWANN GDT 002 (29) - LORISA LOUISE TAYLOR GDT 033 (30) - KELMA KAYLATHIA HAMILTON GDT 031 (31) - SHANDERA SHANELLE HALL GDT 011 (32) - BERDETTE FRANS TATEM GDT 009 (33) - THYROID CHRISTOPHER SMITH GDT 001 (34) - EDWARD KIRCHER SHAVAR HALL (JR)

Leroy Charles Director of Crown Land Unit Dated this ____________ Day of _____________ 2014

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos


32 CLASSIFIEDS AGNES SWANN NORTH CAICOS

Is looking for a

AGNES SWANN Is looking for a

is seeking to hire a

Is looking for a

9863

contact: 649-246-4769

Contact: 246-4769

9880

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

per week salary $5.50 per hour.

Meditation Centre

domestic worker

contact: 246-4769

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

CAICOS PETROLEUM

HOLTON WILLIAMS

9876

BACI RESTORANTE

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Brama Kumaris

Raja Yoga

LABOURER Labourer LABOURER To work 5 days To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

ALEISA MUSGROVE

Turks and Caicos Islands

Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101

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

Is looking for a

JERMAL FULFORD

JAMES COX

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

FULL- TIME KITCHEN HELPER Must be willing to work shifts, including nights, weekends and holidays Duties: Pot washing, dishwashing and any general cleaning Salary $8.00 per hour

DOMESTIC WORKER

Contact: 941-3044

9875

To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour. contact: 231-6717

Ananda Ltd

9874

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

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

contact: 232-1053

contact: 347-5541

L & S CONSTRUCTION is looking for a

has the following

6 Sales Assistants

- Friendly and an outgoing person able to deal with customers on a one-to-one basis - Willing to cooperate and work as a joint team with other staff members - Computer savvy - opearate POS systems and willing to learn new ideas - Willing to work extended hours, weekends and holidays - Knowledge of speaking and writing in different languages always an asset - 3-5 years experience in retail trade - Salary $5.00 per hour

6 Labourers

- Must have 3-5 years experience - Salary $5.00 per hour

CONTACT: Ananda Ltd, P.O Box 1151, Providenciales. Tel: 339-4663 e-mail: jobs@anandaltd.com

Plumber To work 6 days per week salary $10.00 per hour.

Contact: 241-7557

9891

SAM’S SHOP

1) Mechanic 1) Diesel Mechanic 2) Labourers 1) Supervisor Interested candidate may apply through ricardofulford@ gmail.com further details regarding employment

Acting on behalf of our clients: E & Y Contractor, Coyaba Restaurant, Ripple Ltd. is looking for the following persons:

Auto Mechanic To work 5 days per week salary $10.00 per hour.

contact: 341-4725

Ricardo Fulford Consultant Services On behalf of his clients: TCI Waste Disposal is seeking employment for the following:

WARD CONSULTANCY

Is looking for a

9892

4 Store/Warehouse Supervisors

- Responsible for specific day to day activities - Ensure all areas of the shop floor are adequately staffed and customers receive the highest standard of service - Maintaining a presence on the shop floor to assist staff in problem solving and motivating them for improved customer service - Manage accounting and sales aspects of the firm - performing weekly auditing of sales and expenses - Manage inventory along different locations and take control of transfers

9876

To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour. contact: 2410056 or 241-4104

9870

AGNES SWANN NORTH CAICOS

May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Seamstress Cook Waitress Labourer Salary $5-$9 per hour Contact: 345-7512

9889

JSMS Is looking for a

Labourer To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour send resumes to P.O. Box 954


May 24 - 30, 2014

PARALEGAL The position requires: • • • • •

CLASSIFIEDS 33

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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: 9th April 2010 Apply with resume, quoting reference “Paralegal” to

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

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS GOVERNMENT

VACANCIES The following vacancies currently exist within the Turks and Caicos Islands Public Service:

Principal (Secondary School)

– Providenciales (Deadline: May 29, 2014) Salary: $32,520 - $37,500 per annum This is a senior professional position which has responsibility for managing and supervising a coeducation institution. The job holder is required to ensure that discipline is maintained among the academic and student body and to prepare and manage the school’s annual budget and supply inventory.

Principal (Primary School)

– Providenciales (Deadline: May 28, 2014) Salary: $27,840 - $31,020 per annum This is a senior professional position which has responsibility for the administration of the daily operations of the primary school. The job holder is required to manage school operations, supervise staff and students, ensure the appropriate instruction and discipline of the student body and manage the school’s finances and supply inventory.

Industrial Arts Teacher

– North Caicos (Deadline: May 28, 2014) Salary: $27,840 - $31,020 per annum This is a specialist position which has unit level responsibility for the teaching of one or more of the school’s curriculum subjects to students.

Exchange of Information Officer

– Grand Turk (Deadline: May 29, 2014) Salary: $43,200 per annum The incumbent in this position will report to the Director of Exchange of Information and will be responsible for assisting with the full range of competent authority functions, including the implementation of new agreements, the execution of requests, the making of judicial applications, and the handling of legal issues arising from any aspect of the competent authority’s work.

Administrative Officer

– Providenciales (Deadline: June 4, 2014) Salary: $26,940 - $29,640 per annum This is a senior administrative support position which ensures the smooth operations and functions of the office. The incumbent in this position will provide administrative support to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Senior Prison Officer

– Grand Turk (Deadline: June 6, 2014) Salary: $23,400 per annum To support the Superintendent of Prisons to maintain security, control, supervision and the safe custody of offenders. The successful candidate will be responsible for looking after Offenders and to help them lead law abiding and useful lives in custody and after release.

Tax Officer

– Providenciales (Deadline: June 6, 2014) Salary: $30,024 per annum The incumbent in this position is expected to conduct the necessary activities to get Taxpayers in default to comply with the requirements under the Revenue Ordinances and Regulations and maintain Compliance and Arrears cases assigned by the Assistant Commissioner/Senior Tax Officer.

Assistant District Commissioner

– Middle Caicos (Deadline: June 6, 2014) Salary: $31,680 per annum The incumbent in this position will be responsible for assisting the District Commissioner in overseeing the administration of Government Services under the “One Stop Shop’ initiative. The incumbent is expected to work closely with the District Commissioner. Interested persons are asked to visit www.gov.tc for job details and the application procedure.

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

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


CAICOS PETROLEUM

CASHIER POSITION AVAILABLE Applicants must be pleasant, honest, reliable and computer literate. Applicants must be willing to work on a shift basis, holidays, weekends and evenings. Salary $5.50 per hour

Fax/Tel 649 946 4717/649 941 7986

Is looking for a

is looking for a

contact: 247-9898

9842

Job Description: • Qualified individual must be physically fit to perform physical work • Able to meet deadline and can carry multiple job required in an specified time limit • Willing to work extended

hours when needed • Knowledge in inventory • Knows how to drive Basic Salary: Based on experience All applicants must submit their application before May 24th, 2014

Please submit your application via email to: janusbukala@yahoo.ca

housekeeper to work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour. contact: 231-3342

9847

CARLTON HIGGS

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

OVANDO CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

Acting on behalf of our client: Barefoot Café is looking for a

Bartender contact: 347-2093

9865

9890

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

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

contact: 244-2088

9866

Retail Clerk

Is looking for a

C & S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Acting on behalf of our client: Yvon Joseph Petit is looking for a

domestic

Carpenter worker labourer To work 6 days To work 5 days per week. Salary $8.00 per hour.

Contact: 331-9854

9843

To work 5 days per week 9am-4pm salary $5.00 per hour.

per week salary $5.50 per hour.

contact: 245-0093

Contact: 241-5922

9849

Sunny Reef LTD. Is looking for a

Full Time

Pastry Chef

Job Description • Welcome customers with a smile and warm greeting • Assist customers with purchasing requested merchandise and answer any queries • Make product recommendations to customers and seek ways to upsell • Calculate total price including any applicable discounts; accept payment and make change where applicable • Wrap or bag customer merchandise as appropriate • Ensure shelves, counters, etc. are appropriately stocked with merchandise and properly priced • Set up displays and/or arrange merchandise to promote sales • Provide marketing input to drive sales • Ability to accurately record and manage purchase items in a timely fashion • Keep accurate record of sales and ensure store is kept clean and orderly • Balance and record cash at the end of each shift or as required • Regularly review service to customers and identify ways to improve • Maintain at all times a professional, courteous manner with customers and coworkers • Ability to communicate effectively in English, second language is an asset • Ability to accurately perform basic mathematical calculations • Perform other duties as assigned by Supervisor or any other authorized individual • Ability to maintain food standards

Must be a team player, work under pressure in a busy atmosphere. Must have good written and verbal skills, and know how to budget.

Pastry Chef Qualification * Five years in a busy establishment. Must know how to create and prepare dessert from the menu. * Research and developing receipts. * Prepare and delivering budget. * Ordering food supplies for dessert menu ALL qualified person please send your resume address to the H.R department.PO. Box 811 or email us at info@mangoreef.com. Please no phone calls.

9836

VACANCY

Requirements • Any combination of education and retail sales experience that would provide the required knowledge, skill and ability to perform this job successfully • Be computer literate and knowledge of spreadsheets is an advantage. • Team player with a friendly demeanor and excellent interpersonal and communication skills • Ability to work in a busy environment with minimal supervision • Strong math aptitude with the ability to handle cash and credit card transactions • Ability to speak, read and write fluently in the English language; second language desired but not required • Ability to work flexible schedule which may include early mornings, late evenings, weekends and holidays • Clean police record and professional references required

Site Engineer

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. - AutoCAD drafting certificate from a recognized institution.

Belongers and valid status need only apply. Please send up to date Resume’s to ar@griffithsandpartners.com reference ISL/RS

PAULA PARKER

9854

Cosmetologist To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 649-341-2045

May 24 - 30, 2014

SANDRA WALKIN

VILLA CARETAKER

per week salary $5.50 per hour.

9855

QUANTUM COMPANY LIMITED is seeking a

labourer To work 4 days

C & J EMPLOYMENT

DREAZ

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CARAMANDA FORBES

9848

34 CLASSIFIEDS

Minimum Experience :7 years in Structural & Civil Detailing 6 years in seismic Detailing 8 years (construction) field experience knowledge of architectural concept and design Fluent in Creole. The successful candidate will be required to travel throughout the Caribbean Periods of relocation to Haiti will be required

Please Send Resume to pjkeds@tciway.tc Belongers only may apply for this post. 9853

9852


May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS 35

MEP Consultant Engineer NOTICE OF SALE BY The successful applicant must have the following Qualifications: • A degree in his/her field obtained from a recognized University. • A registered chartered engineer with his/her respective Engineering Council. • Applicants should have a minimum of 10 (ten) years’ experience and proven design track record in MEP design. • Be a member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerant and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) • Applicants must have extensive experience in the installation of, and including testing/ commissioning of electrical and mechanical systems. • All applicants must be familiar with USA Codes and Regulations. • Be competent in the design of HVAC systems. • Competent in design of Power generation and distribution of power supply • Performing electrical calculations, sizing of equipment, fire alarm design and communications systems. • Computer skills including use of AutoCad software (test may be requested). The successful applicant must have the technical experience for solving design solutions and work unsupervised in the preparation and issuing of Mechanical and Electrical & Plumbing design drawings.

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

1. Parcel 61105/62 Long Bay Hills, Providenciales.

The land is an attractive corner lot on Curlew Drive in the third tier from the beach and has relatively good elevation, approximately 0.90 acre of land. Registered Proprietor: Titus Deboer

2. Parcel 60713/46 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill.

This property is located close to Turtle Cove and sits on .95 Acres. The property is a one and a half storey, detached property and Construction is of part concrete with stone with part timber frame with panel finish. The kitchen and bathroom are of reasonable specification with tiled work tops and timber cabinetry. Externally, the parcel is fully fenced with a concrete drive. Registered Proprietor: Titus & Virgine Deboer

3. Parcel 60002/367 North West and North Central, Providenciales.

Contact Information: Please send resume via e-mail: info@bowdens. tc, Include mailing address, e-mail address and phone number. Please include references with contact information and details of relationship

This property forms part of Phase two of the Priton Homes affordable scheme, consisting of two bedrooms, one bathroom, laundry room, kitchen, living/dining area on 0.25 acre of land. Registered Proprietor: Glanedise Walkin

Applicants with suitable qualifications will be interviewed

4. Parcel 60900/170 Leeward Going Through, Providenciales.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

This property consists of a residential home, providing three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, one half bathroom, living room and kitchen on 0.72 acre of land. Registered Proprietor: Cherrie Romayne Forbes-Ingham

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

5. Parcel 60720/20 Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills, Providenciales.

This property comprises of a single storey detached house with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, open plan living and dining room. There is an attached, partially completed which also consist of two bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, open plan living/ dining room on 1.33 acres of land. Registered Proprietor: Michael M Williams

CBMS

Caribbean Building Materials & Services Ltd. PO Box 611, 131 South Dock Road, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI. Phone 649-941-3400 Fax 649-941-3401

6. Parcel 60610/184 Norway & Five Cays, Providenciales.

This property comprises of a single storey residential house with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, laundry room, kitchen, living/dining room on 1.00 acre of land. Registered Proprietor: Earl Nathan Tucker

VACANCIES

7. Parcel 60900/175 Leeward Going Through, Providenciales.

This property consists of a single storey residential property providing two bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchens, open plan living/dining area and laundry room on 0.67 acre of land. Registered Proprietor: Randy McKenn Ewing

Rig Truck Driver

Applicant must have 5 Years experience driving a tractor trailer with experience in dump trailers. Mechanical ability would be an asset.

8. Parcel 60702/125 Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill, Providenciales

Heavy Duty Mechanics w/Electronic Specialization

This property comprises of a detached two storey building providing a two bedroom private residence to the upper floor and a one bedroom apartment to the lower floor. There is also a separated bedroom/guest room at the rear of the house accessed from the upper deck. Registered Proprietor: Harry Turbyfield/ Carmen Fabara (Opera Investments Ltd.)

Applicant should have specialization in electronic wiring with extensive knowledge of caterpillar equipment. Must have 5 years minimum experience in diesel heavy equipment, able to fabricate and weld, possess own tools and transportation and be able to work without supervision.

9. Parcel 60715/186 Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill, Providenciales.

This property consists of an unfinished bungalow multiplex consisting of 3- one bedroom, 2- two bedroom apartments providing seven bedrooms, seven bathrooms, five kitchens, five living room area on 0.77 acre of land. Registered Proprietor: Ebenezer Benjamin Williams

Heavy Equipment Operator Applicant must have substantial experience in all aspects of heavy equipment operation including Crane Operation. Seven (7) years minimum experience required. A mechanical aptitude would be beneficial. Applicant must be prepared to work weekends and evening as required.

10. Parcel 60515/64 Blue Hills & Stamers Run, Providenciales.

This property consists of a single storey detached dwelling house providing three bedrooms, one bathroom, kitchens, living/dining area and laundry room. Registered Proprietor: Thelma Adlaide Lightbourne

Professional Welders Minimum Experience 5 years. Applicant must be able to weld aluminum and iron, be versed in TIG and MIG welding, able to fabricate and manufacture components out of metal, able to work independently. Hours include weekends and evenings as required. Please reply with reference and clean police and driving records. Wages will be based on experience

PUBLIC AUCTION

9864

The auction will be held at the offices of Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Limited, Grace Bay Branch, Providenciales at 10 o’clock in the morning on Friday the 30th day of May 2014. A reserve price will be fixed on all parcels. A deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids.

9859


36 CLASSIFIEDS

May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

Employment Opportunity Imperial Dry Cleaning & Laundry Centre is currently seeking qualified individuals to become members of our growing Team.

Laundry Manager

Job Description: • Directs the overall activities of the laundry facility through development and administration. • Implementation and enforcing that universal accepted policies and procedures are adhered. • Manages departmental financial processes of forecasting, budgeting, and purchasing. • Payroll and inventory control • Analyze data and compile reports on expenditure and supplies. • Select, train, monitor and evaluate team members’ performance. • Ensures laundry facility and equipment are in optimum operating condition • Ensure over all cleanliness and sanitation of the laundry premise • Weekly productivity report Requirements: • 5- 10 yrs experience as a Laundry Manager • 3-5 yrs commercial laundry experience • Team player • Ability to work with a diverse team • Knowledge of DCC System • Knowledge of Textiles and Chemicals • Knowledge of Laundry Equipment, Techniques and maintenance • Knowledge of QB, Word and Excel • Must have written and oral skills • Customer Service Focused Salary Scale: $20,000.00 to $29,000.00 per annum based on qualification and experience.

Laundry Technician

Requirements: • Install, repair and maintain laundry equipment, electrical, plumbing and related systems. • Identity and source specialised components and tools. • Prepare and maintain an effective preventive maintenance program and spare parts inventory. • Excellent analytical and problem solving skills. • 5 years experience in a commercial laundry with additional knowledge of water management and maintenance residential, commercial and industrial properties. • Knowledge of relevant building codes, legislation, regulations, polices and current standard procedures

for installation and maintenance. • Effective communication and negotiation skills Salary Scale: $7. 00 to $10.00 per hr. based on qualification and experience.

Sales Associate

Job Description: • 3-5 yrs commercial laundry experience • Bachelors Degree in Finance & Banking • Knowledge of DCC System • Monitor and handle all telephone calls and response to queried • Arrange Meetings • Draft letters, memos and proposals • Maintain systematic filing system • Oversee outgoing and incoming correspondences • Assist in daily operations • Perform weekly bank deposit and record in QB • Must be able to work on weekends • Knowledge of QB, Word, Power Point and Excel • Customer Service Focused Salary Scale: $17,000.00 to $19,000.00 per annum based on qualification and experience.

Pressers/Seamstresses

Requirements: • 2 – 5 yrs experience as a Presser • A minimum of 2 yrs working in a commercial laundry • Knowledge in Textiles and Chemicals • Makes garments, such as dresses, coats, and suits, according to customer specifications and measurements. • Discusses with customer type of material, pattern, or style to be used in making garment. • Measures customer to determine modification from pattern, using tape measure. • Alternations of garments. • Drafting standard pattern according to measurements of customer and adapt pattern to obtain specified style. • Be able to maintain productivity standards on a daily basis • Operational Knowledge of Machines • Ensure that dry cleaning standards and practices are used with client’s linen/garments. • Must be able to suggest treatment care to clients • Customer Service Focused Salary Scale: $5. 00 to $7.00 per hr. based on qualification and experience.

Application giving full details of qualifications and experience should be addressed to: Manager Imperial Dry Cleaning and Laundry Centre in Receivership Long Bay Road, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI and should reach no later than May 23, 2014, for further information/appointment you can contact us at Tele:649-946-5633.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

SAM’S

Is looking for a

Waitress – $5.00 per hour

Labourers labourer To work 5 days – $5.00 per hour

Domestic Worker – $5.00 per hour

Contact: 649-347-2093

per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 242-2824

9568

USA GOLD LTD. SEEKS

GOLD PURCHASING CLERK

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.

Y. A. 3. B. CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients:

J.C. CAMPBELL BEAUTY SALON

1 Salon Helper $5.50 per hour 1 Domestic Worker $5.50 per hour 1 Nail Technician $6.00 per hour

MARK G. PANKHURST 1 Domestic Worker $5.50 per hour

S & G CONTRACTING 1 Laborer $6.00 per hour

TROPICAL BAR

1 Bartender $6.00 per hour

LVA Management Ltd.

OFFICE CLERK

TRAGOS RESTAURANT

1 Bartender $6.00 per hour 2 Waitresses $6.00 per hour

PROVO ENTERTAINING

1 Kitchen Helper $5.50 per hour 2 Waitresses $6.00 per hour 1 Bartender $6.00 per hour

B’S BEAUTY BOX

2 Hairdresser $6.00 per hour Contact: 341-4540

MARIE WILSON is looking for a

Skills and Requirements :

- English Language - Computer Skills - Communication Skills - Customer and Personal Service - Attention to Detail - Organizational Skills - 5 Year Experience

Send Resume: sp@ lvaresort.com Or drop it off at Sales Office 107 Turtle Cove Dr, Turtle Cove, Providenciales

Hairbraider Salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 342-9957


CLASSIFIEDS 37

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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.

Pleas contact 331-0044 more information

9809

FLOWER GIRL

Wanted urgently

Floral Designer

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

on behalf of our clients:

ZODIAC BAR

J & C INTERNET CAFÉ is seeking a

UNIVERSAL RECYCLE • Mechanic $7.00 per hour

• 2 Barbers $6.00 per hour • 1 Hairdresser $6.00 per hour • 1 Cosmetologist $6.00 per hour • 1 Nail Technician $6.00 per hour

Must have knowledge of QuickBooks POS System. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 9465378 or 941-8233 9851

• Labourer $6.00 per hour

PROVO ENTERTAINING CENTER • 2 Bartenders • 2 Waitresses

Contact: 341-4540 T. C. INDUSTRIAL is looking for the following persons:

• Electrician • Must Welder be willing to

9857

Contact: 231-1205

J. WILLIAMS Is seeking to employ a

To upkeep rental property deadline May 22nd, 2014 contact: 243-5723 or email: aloehouse@gmail.com

9858

PAINTER

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

Send inquiries to: Norstar Group Ltd. Courtyard Plaza Unit 2C Leeward Highway, Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands. Tel: 649-3500/3600

9834

contact: 241-6246

PETRO PLUS/CAICOS PETROLEUM

CASHIER and PUMP ATTENDANT POSITIONS AVAILABLE

;;Applicants must be pleasant, honest, reliable and computer literate. ;;Applicants must be willing to work on a shift basis, holidays, weekends and evenings. ;;Salary $6.00 per hour and $5.50 per hour respectively

Fax/Tel 649 946 4717/649 946 5625

per week salary $5.50 per hour.

contact: 244-6459 BAY BISTRO Is looking for a

Kitchen Helper To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

contact: 946-5396

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

Nature Splendor Ltd.

Persons who enjoy working outdoors must show real interest in gardener, and should have some gardening experience. You should also have good practical skills and should also have creativity and an eye for details. Should be able to read and write English.

Cashier Worker contact: 231-3987

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

• Electrician $7.50 per hour

Maintenance

To work full-time salary $5.50 per hour.

Domestic Worker Babysitter To work 5 days

PENN CONSTRUCTION

CASTILLO CONSTRUCTION

Is seeking a

PART-TIME EMPLOYEE

Is looking for a

B’S BEAUTY BOX

• 2 Bartenders $6.00 per hour • 2 Waitresses $6.00 per hour

work 5 days per week. Salary $10.00 per hour

Call: 231-3788

ISLAND SPORTIQUE

Acting

CATHERINE TUCKER

BELLE

Is looking for a

9846

Is looking for a

Y.A.3.B. CONSULTING

Landscaper • • • • •

Need organizational skills to make sure projects get complete on time. Horticulture knowledge & experience Preparing & interrupting plans and drawing Ordering supplies. Preparing the ground(including earthwork & drainage)

Gardener/LaboUrer Task: • Raising plants from seeds or cutting. • Digging, planting & weeding flowers beds & borders. Pruning Shrubs. • Checking Health of plants by identifying and pets or diseases & controlling them • Appling nutrients to plants and maintaining moisture levels. • Cleaning & maintaining tools & equipment. Know how to use machinery such as lawn mowers, hedge trimmers & rotovatore.

Please send you resume to PO. Box 811 OR email: Denis@naturesplendor.com

9835

Mr. J. Hamilton

9850

May 24 - 30, 2014


38

PROPERTIES FOR SALE Needed LONG BAY-PROVIDENCIALES

1. Parcel 61113/59- Long Bay Hills. Single Storey Residence. 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Price $185K

2. Parcel 61112/50 & 52 Long Bay Hills.

2 Residential Buildings. Single Storey Residence - 2 bedrooms, one bath, kitchen and living area. Guest house- 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom and kitchen. Price $105K

LEEWARD-PROVIDENCIALES 1. Parcel 60900/59 Leeward Going Through. 2 storey residence.

The upper floor- 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 living, 1 dining area and 1 kitchen. The lower floor- 1 bedroom apartment unit, 1 living area 1 kitchenette, 1 bathroom. Price $240,000

2. Parcel 60900/225 Leeward Going Through. Single storey residence.

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms 1 living, dining and kitchen. Front porch and terrace. Price $260K

3. Parcel 60900/194 Leeward Going Through. 2 Residential Buildings.

2 storey building- Upper Floor-3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, Lower Floor-3 rental units. Single Storey building- 3 apartments each comprising of 1 bedroom,1 bathroom, 1 kitchen/dining/ living room area. Price $250K

4. Parcel 60900/123 Leeward Going Through. 2 Residential Buildings.

Main dwelling- 3 bedrooms, 1 Living, 1 dining room, 4 bathrooms and 1 kitchen. Guest house -1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1 living/dining room and 1 kitchen. Price $350K

THE BIGHT & THOMAS STUBBS- PROVIDENCIALES

1. Parcel 60807/90 The Bight and Thomas Stubbs. 3 Residential Buildings.

Main house - 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 1 kitchen and 1 dining

Administrative Assistant

room. Guest House #1 - 2 bedrooms, 1 bath Guest House#2 - 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom and 1 garage. A pool lounge and swimming pool. Price $520K

Lower Floor- 1 bedroom, 1 living room, dining room and kitchen and 1 powder room. Upper Floor- 2-bedrooms, 2-bathrooms and an open deck on the second floor level. Also a covered bar area with open deck. Price $200K

3. Parcel 60809/188 The Bight & Thomas Stubbs. Single family residence.

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 kitchen and living area. Price $220K

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 living/ dining area and kitchen. landscaped grounds, front and rear decks, concrete surfaced driveway and parking. Price $350K

2. Parcel 60701/36 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill, Thompson Cove. Single residence.

3 bedrooms, 1 Living, 2 full bathroom a kitchen. Price $340K

3. Parcel 60718/159 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill,. 2 -Residential buildings. Main residence-3 bedroom 2 bathrooms, 1 living and 1 kitchen.

clean driver’s record would be a plus.

Domestic Worker

with good command of the English Language and clean driver’s licence.

Please send email to millsinstitute@ gmail.com. No phone calls please.

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

contact: 232-4400

VACANCIES Duties: • Analyze and resolve all IT/HIS/PACS/RIS problems logged by users (by phone, email and fault logs) or route them onwards as necessary (e.g. 3rd party support companies), ensuring that normal service is restored to users within minimum timescale. • To proactively monitor and support IT infrastructure MS exchange, SQL Server. Active Directory and user computing platforms. • Identify potential problems and design and implement changes to prevent these from occurring. • To manage the release of operating systems and standard application software upgrades and patches to PCs/laptops, servers and network equipment. • To monitor the capacity of servers and manage the implementation of upgrades, where necessary, to ensure fit for current and future purpose. • To provide advice and guidance to employees on the use of IT systems and services. • To carry out testing of hardware and software proposed for use within IHC TCI, with particular attention to supportability. • To operate a PC rebuilding service for devices which have developed faults. This includes the reformatting of disks, the reinstallation of relevant operating systems and applications as well as relocation once complete. Qualifications required for the job: • Academic degree; industry-specific qualification or Technical level in computer, business or quantitative field such as: Computer Science, Business, Operations, Mathematics • Desired: MCSA or MCSE or MCTS or COMPTIA A+ or Network +

Two-storey-apartment building; 1 # 3 bed 2 baths unit, 1# 2 bed, 2 bath unit, 5# 1 bed, unit and 2# efficiency units. Price $750K

4. Parcel 60716//138 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill. The main residence 2- bedrooms, 3-bathrooms, 1-living area & kitchen.

Labourer

Systems Engineer

1. Parcel 60715/308 Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hills. Single storey residence.

with competence in Quickbooks with a minimum of 3 years experience and an Associate Degree or higher in Business Administration.

Summary: Operates and maintains in-house applications; plans and conducts migrations and upgrades; oversees database-specific technical assignments. Project assists in the area of documentation management. To investigate and resolve general, often complex, issues and queries from users of InterHealth Canada IT systems, and to manage and maintain InterHealthCanada IT infrastructure.

CHESHIRE HALL & RICHMOND HILLPROVIDENCIALES

Is looking for a

with a minimum of 5 years experience.

2. Parcel 60804/49 The Bight and Thomas Stubbs. 2 storey residential building.

DENNIS MURPHY

Primary School Trained Teacher

OFFERS IN WRITING ARE INVITED FOR PURCHASE OF THE FOLLOWING PROPERTIES BEING SOLD BY PRIVATE TREATY UNDER POWERS OF SALE CONTAINED IN A MORTAGE

May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Guest home 1- bedroom, 1-bathroom & kitchen. Open timber deck, porch, pool, gazebo and storage. Price $425K

INTERESTED PERSONS MAY CALL 232-3488 OR 339-7088 BETWEEN 9:00 AM AND 5:00 P.M. MONDAY TOF FRIDAY 9860

Experience: • A minimum of 3 years working within an IT environment, preferably health care related with HIS administration and clerical administration experience. • Hands on experience in managing and supporting large scale infrastructure, network design, deployment and support, VoIP, customer support, business intelligence • Recent experience as a database administrator for a healthcare system. JOB DESCRIPTION PROVIDED UPON REQUEST Salary: Negotiable, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

SEAMSTRESS/LAUNDRY ASSISTANT

Required for busy internal laundry. Key duties include uniform repairs and alterations, general laundry duties, and linen collection and distribution. Candidate must have previous experience, preferably in a Healthcare environment. Data entry and paperwork processing experience is also required. 40 hours per week, Monday to Sunday from 7.00a.m. to 8.00p.m. Rate of pay from $6.25 dependant on experience.

Dead Line for both positions: 29th May 2014 Email CV to recruitment@interhealthcanada.tc


May 24 - 30, 2014

39

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

JOB OPPORTUNITIES The Sands is now accepting applications/résumé for the following positions. Only highly self-driven & motivated, personable and professional individuals, whom have the desire to serve others, need apply: MANAGERIAL, SUPERVISORY & SKILLED POSITIONS

GENERAL MANAGER Responsibilities: • Full responsibility for operating success of the Resort • Ensuring that the selection, training and ongoing direction for Resort associates is such that it maintains high level of job satisfaction, morale and teamwork among associates in all areas • Achieve financial/budgeting goals and expectations as established in the annual business plan for all areas of responsibility, and organize/implement strategic and tactical plans to facilitate this aim • Achieve high levels of quality guest service and customer satisfaction for Resort guests Requirements: • Must have at least 8 years managerial experience at a property of similar size and quality. • Strong operational expertise in rooms; marketing; facilities/systems (including preventive maintenance); recreation and other ancillary disciplines • Must have managerial experience in the Condo Strata Management • Ability to inspire, train, and develop people for promotion by encouraging and supporting career development, and driving continuous learning • Ability to implement a highly consistent customer service culture • Ability to instill a highly consistent guest service attitude in all employees

OWNER’S RELATIONS MANAGER Requirements:

• Executive Assistant to the CEO • Must have 5 years’ experience as a direct executive assistant to GM or higher of a large scale property • Must have at minimum of 5 years managerial experience at a destination resort property of similar size and quality • Must have managerial experience and knowledge of Condo Strata Management • Must have at least 5 years of experience in Condo Style Owner Relations position • Ability to inspire, train, and develop people for promotion by encouraging and supporting career development, and driving continuous learning • Ability to instill a highly consistent satisfaction rate for all owners Responsibilities:

• Primary liaison to owners with refurbishment, product and accounting inquiries • Responsible for solving all accounting inquiries as requested by owners • Responsible for all guest and owner unit scheduling as well as inquires of a similar nature • Achieve high levels of quality product, customer service and guest satisfaction for resort owners • Must be able to speak, read, write and understand the primary language(s) used in the workplace • Must be able to read and write to facilitate the

communication process • Requires excellent communication skills, both verbal and written • Must possess basic computational ability (word, excel, outlook)

HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR Responsibilities:

• Ensures maximum compliance and efficiency in the performance of Housekeeping staff in guest rooms and surrounding areas • Carries out the policies and procedures of Housekeeping Department Standard Operating Procedures • Offers assistance to guests and owners, initiates corrective action on complaints of cleanliness and service to guest rooms • Assists in and conducts monthly Housekeeping Inventories as required • Conducts routine guest room and common area inspections. Provides inspections forms and retrains for success • Assists in and conducts staff scheduling and annual performance evaluations • Maintains inventory and stock controls • Ensures delivery of service excellence to all guests by monitoring staff performance and provides hands-on training and development • Evaluates and updates Executive Housekeeper on staff performance. Makes recommendations for appropriate action in the areas of commendation and disciplinary • Maintains quality controls and assurance • Assists in overseeing Laundry Department as required in service, quality, inventory, inspection, scheduling and overall performance Requirements:

• High school diploma • Must have supervised a minimum of 15 employees • Most work tasks are performed indoors and outdoors. Temperature is moderate and controlled by hotel environmental systems • Must be able to stand and exert well-paced mobility for up to 3 hours in length • Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs. on a regular and continuing basis • Must be able to push and pull carts and equipment weighing up to 200 lbs. on a regular and continuing basis • Must be able to exert well-paced ability in limited space • Must be able to bend, stoop, squat and stretch to fulfill cleaning tasks • Must have minimum of 3 years supervisory experience in the Hotel/Resort and/or Hospitality Industry • Must be able to speak, read, write and understand the primary language (s) used in the workplace • Must be able to read and write to facilitate the communication process • Requires excellent communication and grammar skills, both orally and written to communicate well to guests and owners • Must possess basic math and computational ability • Must have basic computer skills in Hotel PMS, Word,

Excel and Outlook • Must work weekends and holidays

POOL & BEACH ATTENDANT Responsibilities:

• Greet all guests and assist with towels, chair set-ups, umbrellas, questions, and/or water sports equipment. • Complete setting up and breaking down of all guest lounge areas as designated by Supervisor or Management. Ensures that all pool chairs and tables are in a clean and orderly fashion. • Constant walk-through of pool area and beach area to make certain it is clean (no trash on the grounds) and tidy. Inspect entire pool area replacing any missing items and/or repairing (when possible) any items needing attention. (I.E. Umbrellas, Hobie Cat, Chairs, etc.) • Pool & Hot Tub Cleaning (I.E. vacuuming, filtering, scrubbing, sifting, chemical testing, checking skimmers, etc.) Requirements:

• A secondary diploma is an asset • Experience as a Pool & Beach Attendant is preferred • Must be able to work long hours in all weather conditions • Must be able to be CPR certified, First Aid certified, and AED certified • Must be a good swimmer and perform rescue when needed • Must be able to be certified to operate rescue boat • Must be experienced in sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing and operator all non-motorized sports equipment • Must be able to clean and chlorinate pool • Must handle pool chemicals and equipment maintenance and functions • Life Guard experience a plus • Must speak, read, write and understand the primary language(s) (English) used in the workplace. • Must work weekends and holidays

LINE POSITIONS

HOUSEKEEPING ROOM ATTENDANT HOUSEMAN LABOURER GROUNDSMAN For the above line staff positions, resort experience is an asset but not a requirement. Applicants must have a willing, positive and personable attitude as well as be willing to work holidays and weekends. They should also enjoy serving people and be willing to learn. Minimum experience in the areas of interest required. Turks & Caicos Islands citizens only need to apply to the Assistant Human Resources Manager, Sheena Smith at The Sands Resort located on Grace Bay Road, Providenciales or e-mail: humanresource@thesandstc. com, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands. Deadline is June 3, 2014. 9862


40

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 24 - 30, 2014

Lucy Li, 11, becomes youngest U.S. Women’s Open qualifier

Lucy Li has become the youngest player to qualify for the U.S. Women’s Open, aged just 11. She breaks the previous mark held by fellow American Lexi Thompson, who was 12 when she made the cut in 2007.

Serena Williams has now won 60 WTA titles, which moves her into seventh place of all time.

Williams beats Sara Errani to win Italian Open in Rome WORLD number one Serena Williams overpowered home favourite Sara Errani to retain her Italian Open title. The American, 32, powered through 6-3 6-0 at Rome’s Foro Italico and took her record on clay to 53 wins and two defeats since 2012. She has now won 60 WTA titles, moving her into seventh in the all-time list. Williams will head to the French Open, which begins next Sunday, as a strong favourite to successfully defend her title and win an 18th Grand Slam. Errani, 27, had beaten world number two Li Na and world number eight Jelena Jankovic on her way through the Rome draw, but she was overwhelmed in the final. Williams had won all six of their previous matches, including a 46-minute victory the last time they met in the 2013 French Open semi-final, where the Italian won just one game.

GOLFING prodigies just keep getting younger. The latest name to wow the sport is 11-year-old Lucy Li, who made her own slice of history on Monday. She is officially the youngest player to qualify for the U.S. Women’s Open after securing her place at an event in her native California. Li, from Redwood Shores, shot rounds of 74 and 68 at Half Moon Bay Golf Club to beat the field by seven shots and book her place at Pinehurst next month. She beats the previous mark held by fellow American Lexi Thompson, who qualified for the 2007 installment aged 12. But Li won’t be the youngest to compete at the tournament -- that honor is still held by Beverley Klass, who competed in 1967 aged just 10 without having to qualify. Li already has a victory at the world famous Augusta National under her belt, having won the inaugural Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at the Masters venue in April.

Now she’ll be heading to Pinehurst as the third major event of the women’s season follows on directly after the men’s tournament at the same venue on June 17 for the first time in its history. Li was one of those to make it from the United States Golf Association’s first international qualifying events, which took place in America, England, China, Japan and Korea. All of the 17 women to qualify will be making their first appearance at the U.S. Open, with another raft of events running right through until the end of May. At The Buckinghamshire course just outside London, England, 20-year-old Amy Boulden from Wales qualified first just weeks after her first professional win. “I’m very happy. I played very well today, so I’m very pleased,” said Boulden, who was one of eight players to make the cut. “I knew there were a lot of good players, but I still felt quite confident. (CNN)

CFU chief wants inter-regional travel costs addressed CARIBBEAN football chief Gordon “Banks” Derrick says the issue of air travel within the region is hindering the development of the sport and needs to be addressed urgently. Pointing out it was important that national teams in the Caribbean played each other as often as possible, Derrick stressed that the exorbitant costs of inter-regional travel was resulting in a reduction of friendly internationals. “One of the biggest problems we’re having is travel and we have to solve that. I’m not certain how we are going to solve it but we have to. I went to Guadeloupe [recently] and it cost me US$550. I could have gone to Miami for cheaper,” the Caribbean Football Union president told CMC Sports. “We have to work out a way to travel because you can train as much as you want but if you’re not playing games you can’t develop the weight and the speed which you need to compete globally.” He continued: “Do I have the answer? No. But we need to knock our heads together, come up with a plan and decide how we’re going to get that done so that on a regular basis if Barbados wants to play Antigua it would be no problem, if Antigua wants to play St Lucia [no problem] and if St Lucia wants to play Cayman Islands [no problem].

“It should be a matter of picking up the phone and making the arrangements. I don’t know how that is going to be done but we have to work on it. Once we can get that solved, then it will be ok.” Derrick assumed the reins of the CFU two years ago, in the wake of the cash-for-votes scandal that resulted in the resignation of Trinidadian Jack Warner. The Antiguan said that since coming to office, his administration had sought to reform the CFU, creating systems to make the organisation more transparent and accountable. “We have a fully operational executive committee and subcommittees – our audit committees, our internal auditors, etc., so we have everything online and all our financials are there,” he explained. “We now need to start generating revenue itself for the CFU as a unit because right now to be honest, if it was not for CONCACAF’s assistance, it would be a little difficult for us to operate. “But things are being put in place. We have some plans which hope to be announcing to the public in short order, and that will definitely help the Union to become stronger financially and be able to do other things to help develop our individual countries.”

Yohan Blake’s 14.71s just fastest than Walter Dix (14.65s) in 2011 and Usain Bolt (14.35s) in 2009.

Blake runs third fastest 150M, eyes Commonwealth Games FORMER world champion Yohan Blake failed in a bid to break training partner Usain Bolt’s 150-metre world best at the Manchester CityGames on Saturday. Blake timed 14.71 seconds, only the third fastest over the nonOlympic distance, and well behind Bolt’s 14.35 in 2009, and Walter Dix’s 14.65 in 2011. Blake, the 2011 world 100 champ, blamed the lack of a proper warmup area for not being quicker. “I could have got that record today, but I had to make sure I came away injury-free,” the Jamaican said. “There just wasn’t anywhere to warm up.” The Olympic 100 and 200 silver medalist hinted he will attempt the

double at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, in July. “I haven’t chosen my events yet,” said Blake. “I’m waiting to talk to my manager and coach when I get back, but I will probably double up. I’ve got world and Olympic medals and it would be good to have some Commonwealth medals as well.” American Justin Gatlin cruised to victory in the 100 meters in 9.92 seconds at the Shanghai Diamond League on Sunday, the best time in the world this year. Gatlin, the 2004 Olympic champion, pulled away from the field after 60 meters, finishing 0.2 seconds ahead of Jamaica’s Nesta Carter in second. American Michael Rodgers was third.

Floyd sets September date, avoids Khan UNBEATEN American welterweight king Floyd Mayweather reportedly will next fight on September 13, which would rule out England’s Amir Khan as an opponent for religious reasons. Mayweather Promotions chief executive Leonard Ellerbe told ESPN of Mayweather’s next fight date but said no site or opponent had been set, a report on the network’s website said. Khan, whom Mayweather had avoided when he selected Marcos Maidana to fight in a bout he won earlier this month, had said earlier that he could not fight in September because he would be celebrating Ramadan, a fasting month for Muslims. “If Amir Khan wants to fight Floyd Mayweather, we’re going to fight September 13,” Ellerbe told ESPN. Khan thought he was going to fight Mayweather this month, going so far as to pull out of a fight last December to help ensure no issues for a May bout. But Mayweather kept Khan

Floyd Mayweather Jr. is set to fight when Britain’s Amir Khan will have to keep Ramadan (one month of strict fasting).

dangling for months before naming Argentina’s Maidana as his opponent, one he beat May 3 to improve to 46-0 with 26 knockouts. Khan fought and won on the Mayweather undercard, thinking he had put himself in solid position to earn a bout with Mayweather. But that appears not to be the case. “We’re looking at opponents now,” Ellerbe said. “In the next two weeks we’ll have that part figured out.”


May 24 - 30, 2014

Sports International

41

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

California Chrome chasing pot of gold

Novak Djokovic has now won four matches in a row against Rafael Nadal, and has been victorious at five of the past six ATP Masters 1000 events.

Djokovic beats Nadal to win Italian Open in Rome NOVAK Djokovic won his third Italian Open title and laid down a marker for the French Open with victory over Rafael Nadal in the Rome final. Djokovic, 26, beat the defending champion and world number one 4-6 6-3 6-3 in two hours and 19 minutes. The Serb has now won four matches in a row against Nadal, and has been victorious at five of the past six ATP Masters 1000 events. This year’s French Open, where Nadal is eight-time champion, begins on Sunday. Despite his daunting record in Paris, and last year’s dramatic semi-final win over Djokovic, the Spaniard might not

return to Roland Garros as favourite. It is the first time since 2004 that Nadal, who was beaten in the quarter-finals in Monte Carlo and Barcelona, has lost more than two matches on clay in a season. “I was able to find positive things during the tournament but I played three very tough matches this week and it was very hard mentally, as well as physically,” said Nadal “I was a little bit tired.” Djokovic said the victory had come at the end of an emotional week following severe flooding in his home country which has left at least 35 dead and forced tens of thousands of people to flee their homes.

ALREADY dubbed a horse racing “rock star,” California Chrome’s owners are laying plans to maximize the thoroughbred’s rising profile ahead of the colt’s bid to win the Belmont Stakes and the Triple Crown. Having won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes -- the other two legs of the Triple Crown -- California Chrome would become the first horse since Affirmed in 1978 to achieve the ultimate feat in thoroughbred racing should he triumph in New York next month. Owners Steve Coburn and Perry Martin and their wives Carolyn Coburn and Denise Martin, have registered the name with the U.S. Patent and Trademark office, according to records filed on Thursday May 15. The move will give the owners license to use the name “California Chrome” on athletic apparel including shirts, pants, jackets, footwear, hats and caps. The three-year-old colt is arguably rapidly becoming the biggest racing sensation since the retirements of Frankel and Black Caviar. Frankel, who retired undefeated after winning all 14 of his races in October 2012, was estimated to be worth $168 million. Black Caviar, the mare who dominated Australian racing, retired in April 2013 after 25 consecutive victories and amassing nearly eight million dollars in prize money. She was featured on the front page of Australian Vogue magazine

California Chrome would become the first horse since Affirmed in 1978 to achieve the ultimate feat in thoroughbred racing should he triumph in New York next month.

and was even voted as the country’s top sportswoman. Only 11 of the 38 horses who have won the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes have gone on to complete the dream treble with victory at the Belmont Stakes. The colt coasted to victory in Baltimore last Saturday to win the 139th Preakness Stakes -- and is now favourite for victory in the $1.5 million race in New York on June 7. California Chrome was born to a mare named Love the Chase, purchased by Coburn and Martin for $8,000 with a view to breeding.

She was bred to the stallion Lucky Pulpit for a reduced fee of $2,000, the first breeding the novice pair had ever undertaken. Their offspring had earned Coburn and Perry more than $2.3 million in prize money before the Preakness, also chalking up wins at the Santa Anita Derby, San Felipe Stakes and California Cup Derby. After its Preakness success California Chrome became front page news after New York racing officials decided to allow the threeyear-old to wear a breathing strip during the Belmont Stakes.

Manchester United appoint Louis van Gaal as manager The deal that Manny Pacquiao signed will take him through Dec. 31, 2016, when he will be 38 years old.

Pacquiao signs extension with Top Rank MANNY Pacquiao signed a contract extension with Top Rank on Tuesday that will likely keep him with the promotional company of the remainder of his illustrious career. The deal that Pacquiao signed will take him through Dec. 31, 2016, when he will be 38 years old. Top Rank CEO Bob Arum told Yahoo Sports that the contract will continue “as usual,” meaning two fights a year, including one in the spring and one in the fall. Pacquiao plans next to fight in

November in Macau, China. Juan Manuel Marquez, coming off of a big win over Mike Alvarado on Saturday, will be offered the fight. If he declines, Top Rank plans to pursue Ruslan Provodnikov. “These guys are like family to me,” Arum said. “We had discussed this for a while and I was always sure it would get done. Now that it’s been signed and is formally signed, it puts a wrap on it and it feels good to know we’ll be together for another two years.”

HE IS the Chosen One MK II -and he is hoping to make history of a more notable kind than his predecessor achieved. After waiting 27 years to appoint a new manager, Manchester United’s attempts to fill the void left by Alex Ferguson now focus on Louis van Gaal -- who on Monday was named to succeed David Moyes, sacked in April after enduring a miserable campaign in charge. While Moyes’ short tenure was marked by morale-sapping defeats against lesser teams United previously brushed aside, Van Gaal brings an authority earned by stamping his mark on some of the world’s biggest clubs. “It was always a wish for me to work in the Premier League,” the Dutchman said in a United statement after a signing a three-year contract with the 20-time English champions. “To work as a manager for Manchester United, the biggest club in the world, makes me very proud. “I have managed in games at Old

Louis van Gaal is the new manager of Manchester United after signing a three-year contract to succeed David Moyes.

Trafford before and know what an incredible arena Old Trafford is and how passionate and knowledgeable the fans are. This club has big ambitions; I too have big ambitions. Together I’m sure we will make history.” While Moyes arrived at Old Trafford without a major trophy to his name, Van Gaal, who will step down from his role as Netherlands coach after the forthcoming World Cup, comes with real European pedigree. Making his name as a manager at

Ajax, he led the Dutch club to three Eredivisie titles, the UEFA Cup and the Champions League. The 62-year-old enjoyed further success at Barcelona -- winning back-to-back La Liga titles -- while another Eredivisie title followed at AZ Alkmaar, before he claimed a German league-and-cup double at Bayern Munich. Van Gaal will be expected to take United back to the summit of English football after the club slipped from winning the 2012-13 Premier League title by a margin of 11 points to missing out on Champions League qualification this term, for the first time since 1995. “In Louis van Gaal, we have secured the services of one of the outstanding managers in the game today,” declared United chief executive Ed Woodward. “He has achieved many things in his career to date and Old Trafford provides him with a fitting stage on which to write new chapters in the Manchester United story.”


42

May 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Entertainment

Prince Harry Fox TV dating show ‘shameless’ A US dating show featuring a Prince Harry impersonator from Hertfordshire has been criticised as “shameless” and “predictable”. Matthew Hicks, 24, won a role in Fox TV’s I Wanna Marry Harry that sees him attempt to convince women he is the 29-year-old royal. It has faced criticism after being aired in America on Tuesday. Mr Hicks, an environmental consultant, said he never thought the premise was mean or deceiving to the girls. HAIR DYED GINGER The Southampton University graduate tries to persuade 12 girls they are competing to date the fourth in line to the British throne in the show. “They put themselves in this situation,” he said. “They’re not weak, mentally fragile girls who especially might break down, and at the end of the day we’re all there for a laugh.” He said he thought the real Prince Harry would “think it was quite funny”. But some critics were scathing in reviews of the show. Writing on Time.com, James Poniewozik

Terrence Davidson has argued his wigs ‘significantly contributed’ to Nicki Minaj’s notoriety.

Nicki Minaj files to dismiss wig legal claim Matthew Hicks (left) has to try and persuade 12 women he is the real HRH Prince Henry of Wales, otherwise known as Prince Harry.

described it as “shameless”, while Alessandra Stanley in the New York Times said it “conforms to every British stereotype of Americans”. The Daily Beast website, meanwhile, said it was “irrelevant”. Kensington Palace declined to comment on the show. Fox TV is yet to comment on the reviews. Mr Hicks, who was spotted by producers on a celebrity lookalike website, was given training in royal history.

The geology and oceanography graduate, whose parents live in Henlow, Bedfordshire, played cricket for Hertfordshire. As well as a history briefing, he had his blond hair dyed ginger and was housed in an English manor house with guards to film the show. Over five weeks and a series of dates, he had to persuade the women who included a pre-school teacher and student studying for a PhD in physical therapy, he really was the prince. (BBC)

RAPPER Nicki Minaj has asked a federal judge in Atlanta to dismiss a $30m (£17.8m) legal claim against her by her former wig designer. Terrence Davidson sued the star in February, accusing her of selling wigs based on his designs without permission. Lawyers for Minaj argued that the case should be thrown out as Mr Davidson had failed to state a valid claim. They added he was “upset because he lost his most famous client”. Mr Davidson, who began working for Minaj in 2010, created wigs the star wore at high-profile events and in her Super Bass music video. He claims Minaj and her team

reneged on discussions to launch his own reality show and wig line, saying the star had since copied his wig designs and was selling them online. Christopher Chestnut, Mr Davidson’s lawyer, said his client’s wigs “significantly contributed” to Minaj’s notoriety and helped her rise to fame. The hair stylist stopped working for the rapper in 2013, citing creative differences. According to legal papers, Minaj’s lawyers said Mr Davidson was seeking to force himself into a business relationship the star and her team had developed in a bid to receive money he had not earned.

Shield actor Michael Jace arrested over wife’s death AUTHORITIES in America say The Shield actor Michael Jace has been arrested on suspicion of murder after his wife was found shot dead at their home in Los Angeles. Officer Chris No says police arrived at the couple’s home on Monday evening after a report of shots being fired. Officials say 40-year-old April Jace was found dead inside. Michael Jace, 51, was then taken into custody and booked on suspicion of homicide. He is being held on $1 million (£593,000) bail. Lt. John Jenal from the Los Angeles Police Department said two children were at the single-family home at the time of the shooting. They were in protective custody on Tuesday morning, he told LA’s City News Service. Celebrity website TMZ claims the actor called police himself to report the shooting. In March 2011, Jace filed for bankruptcy protection, with debts of between $500,000 (£297,000) and $1 million (£593,000). Much of the debt appeared to

Paul McCartney has been forced to postpone some shows in Japan due to illness.

Paul McCartney ill, postpones Japan shows Michael Jace’s wife was found shot dead at their home in LA.

relate to his home as well as more than $22,000 (£13,000) owed in state and federal income taxes. In documents submitted at the time, his wife was listed as a public school teacher with more than 10 years’ experience. In a statement listing his possessions, Jace marked down that he didn’t own any firearms. There are no records of any criminal cases involving the actor in Los Angeles.

Jace played Detective Julien Lowe in FX drama The Shield and was a police officer in Southland. He also had parts in Forrest Gump, State of Play, Boogie Nights and Planet of the Apes. The actor and his wife were married for nine years while Jace has another child from a previous relationship. He was previously married to Jennifer Bitterman but they divorced in 2002.

PAUL McCartney fans in Japan are going to have to wait a little longer to get “Out There.” The former Beatle, currently on his “Out There” tour in Asia, was forced to postpone two shows at the Tokyo National Stadium due to an undisclosed illness. The cancellations are a rare occurrence for the McCartney, who has proven an iron man while maintaining a global tour schedule over the past several years. He’ll turn 72 in June. “Doctors have ordered Paul complete rest and he has been doing all he can to get better,” read a statement

on McCartney’s official website posted Sunday. “Paul has only ever had to reschedule a handful of shows in his entire career and is so upset about this situation, he hates to let people down.” McCartney wanted to perform against doctor’s orders, the statement continued, “but his team, along with the doctors, wouldn’t allow it.” McCartney plans to reschedule the shows, which were originally planned for May 18-19. Shows scheduled for May 21, at Tokyo’s Nippon Budokan, and May 24, at Osaka’s Yanmar Stadium Nagai, have also been postponed.


May 24 - 30, 2014

43

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports National Josh for Sports

The ultimate vision: Provo Champions Track Club and Academy IN 1972 at age 21 while training for the Olympics, as a so-called untrained PE teacher at CI Gibson Jr. Secondary in Nassau, (we won the Jr. division of the New Providence Inter-Secondary High Schools Athletic Championships that year), I created my first track club. The club, named “World Trotters Track Club” was specifically for children age range from 10-14. The majority of the 20 plus members of this club were from CI Gibson, with the remainder coming from the neighbourhood in which I lived as well as other schools. All were boys. We trained for the first four months of 1972, five days per week after school. We did extensive conditioning of road running to golf course cross-country running three-five miles. We, also did, circuit training on a 400M and step down

state, national and even world records. I was certain that the children in the Bahamas could beat those in the USA—if they were exposed to the vision, given the proper training and opportunity to compete under official conditions such as the Florida Relays. By Joshua Gardiner

from 1500M to 150M. Additionally, we had time trials every two weeks (one mile, 800M, 400M and 200M). I had a vision of creating world age group champions. This idea emerged from me having competed at the previous two Florida Relays while at SIU. It was a thrill to watch these young boys and girls of various age group establishing/breaking

ENCOURAGED After three months of training, my baby brother Des Gardiner ran a one-miler against one of my ninth graders. He was a guest and just 10-years-old while my ninth graders ranged in ages 12-17. My brother actually lapped the second placed finisher and unofficially broke the then existing U-11 world’s record for the mile (5:27.9minutes). END OF CLUB Unfortunately, my brother never

went to the Florida Relays because my father stopped him from running since I got married without his consent. SECOND TRACK CLUB I created the Bain-Town Flyers Track Club in Nassau, 1974 (my second track club). It was created for Dr. Norman Gay, MP for Bain Town (after I became frustrated by the Education Department under the British Government in GT). Out of this club came Olympic and World champions for the Bahamas, including two of the Golden Girls Pauline Davis and Eldice Clarke, plus their Olympic coach Rupert Gardiner, who I coached directly when he was 16 years old. Actually the current president of the BAAA (hosting the World Relays this weekend) had quit the Pioneers Track Club and joined the Flyers.

2014 PROVO CHAMPIONS TRACK CLUB AND ACADEMY For year now I’ve been advocating for a serious approach towards athletics in the TCI. Without rehashing the contents of my past columns, I want to inform my readers that a brand new track club and academy is in the process of being created here in Provo. The purpose of this club is to create world champions for the TCI. The vision is that we will produce at least six CARIFTA medals in 2015 and by 2020 we aim to produce at least two Olympic medals. We now have been training for the past week at 4:00h, the ages range from 12-27 years-old. Currently we are open only to men and boys. The sky is the limit. More information will be released at a later date. Love Josh.

CFU Women’s Caribbean Cup:

Six high school students in TCI national women’s team SIX high school students, including 15-year-old national middle distance sprinter Akia Guerrier, have been selected for the national squad to compete in the inaugural Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Women’s Caribbean Cup. TCI will host the Cayman Islands, Bermuda and St. Kitts and Nevis at the TCIFA National Academy ground from Friday to next Tuesday.

Along with Guerrier the other youngsters are: Britteny Bien-Aime, Briandie Brooks, Willandra Elliott, Mellisa Jean Guy and Christma Jean-Louis. Team Manager Candace Hanchell said that the squad is one mixed with youth and experience. “The team has a diverse selection, as many of the players have grown up through the TCIFA’s soccer

2014 Church Co-Ed Softball League:

Prochecy come-frombehind to beat Methodist SIX runs at the top of the second innings were not enough for the Methodist Church in the latest round of the 2014 Church Co-Ed Softball League. In the exciting clash, a pumpedup Prophecy Church made a late run to outscore their opponents 13-4 in the closing stages of the opening game last Monday night

at the National Stadium. The game ended 14-11 in favour of Prophecy. Game two proved more onesided with Bethany Baptist Church cruising past the Paradise Baptist Church 12-1. The game ended at the bottom of the third owing to the 10-run rule.

programme and are current academy players.” Along with the high school girls residing in the TCI, US college students Sarah Cenary and Emmanuela Meneide are also in the national side. All the other players “are actually persons who hold full time jobs” on the islands,” Hanchell pointed out. Hanchell, who is also president of the Women’s Football League (WFL), said that the team will play “to the best of their abilities” and will make the TCI proud. TCIFA’s Technical Director Craig Harrington and head coach Ava Robertson and Hanchell have gotten the side game ready for the May 23rd to 27th competition. The full squad reads: Jacinda Alfrena, Barbara Anderson, Gerlie Azemard, Bertha Belle, Britteny Bien-Aime, Briandie Brooks, Chanile Butterfield, Sarah Cenary, Jancilla Cox, Willandra Elliot, Olivia Gravely, Akia Guerrier, Tamara Hall, Melissa Jean Guy, Christma JeanLouis, Josul Jeune, Vanessa Joseph, Emmanuela Meneide, Gaya Smith and Natalie Zaiedan.

Some of the national players selected for the competition.

CFU Women’s Caribbean Cup schedule: May 23 - Cayman v St. Kitts & Nevis @ 5pm TCI v Bermuda @ 7pm

May 25 - Bermuda v Cayman @ 5pm TCI v St. Kitts & Nevis @ 7pm May 27 - St. Kitts & Nevis v Bermuda @ 5pm TCI v Cayman @ 7pm


44

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 24 - 30, 2014

2014 NACRA Rugby Championships:

Improving Flamingos lose to Jamaica in close contest THE Flamingos, the senior national rugby team of the TCI, might have returned to Providenciales empty handed after their clash with Jamaica last Saturday in the NACRA Rugby Championships in Ewarton, but the scoreline tells a different story. In January of 2013 when Jamaica travelled to the TCI, we had home fans, a pumped up group of players and momentum, yet we lost 13-31. At that moment we were the ultimate underdogs; our small nation was playing against a larger sports crazy country (with over 2.7M people), who had played the game at a high level since 1960 and were respected regionally. Playing in Jamaica (now ranked 80th in the world) almost a year-anda-half later was no easy task, without our supporters and knowledge of the ground we were always going to play catch up, but for most of the first half victory seemed ripe for the taking. SCORING FIRST The TCI side elected to face the wind in the first half and played from inside their 40 metres for most of that period. The TCI kept the ball tight with strong running from Neil French, Terrico Misick and Jesse Owen. Playing on a wide pitch the TCI backline did an excellent job containing the Jamaican backline with Paul McKenzie and Andrew Seymour putting pressure on their opposite numbers all afternoon. The TCI team pushed themselves into the Jamaican half and scored first as Luis Turbyfield kicked a

penalty to give them a 3-0 lead. The TCI side continued to fight from their half and were soon down to 14 players as Callis Jones was shown a yellow card for a high tackle. TCI defended well with limited numbers and saw out the 10 minute sin bin period with another penalty from Turbyfield’s boot. Leading 6-0, eight minutes from halftime the TCI lost a scrum and from the ensuing counter-attack Jamaica managed to cross the try line to the delight of the home crowd. They then took the lead with the conversion 7-6. A failed drop goal attempt left the hosts with a one point lead at halftime. The visitors continued to put their bodies on the line and attack through tight channels in their own side of the halfway line in the second half. Jamaica threw the ball wide and seemed to have scored in the corner only for Turbyfield to tackle their winger into touch at the try-line. TCI cleared their line but Jamaica remained camped in the TCI half. The resolute TCI defence held, but ultimately gave up a penalty that allowed the hosts to take a 10-6 lead. The TCI moved the ball into the Jamaican half after the kick off and were unlucky as Turbyfield missed his first penalty of the day and slipped as he took a second. The TCI continued to pressure the home side and with one minute to play won a penalty. Needing a try to win the game the TCI elected to take a lineout but unfortunately the lineout, which had been mixed throughout the day, was won by the

The Flamingos were ahead 6-0 before Jamaica came back.

Jamaican side who cleared the ball to finish the match. STUCK TO THE GAME PLAN TCI Captain Sean O’Neill said: “It was very disappointing to lose the match as we put everything we could into it. The guys all played well and stuck to the game plan that we prepared prior to the game. We now need to stick to that plan and prepare for The Bahamas on May 31st.” “NEVER GIVE UP” ATTITUDE TCI Coach Ranald Schulz said: “Jamaica played exactly as expected, attempting to execute a very expansive strategy. They failed to execute as they would’ve liked and part of this can be attributed to the pressure the TCI team exerted in defense.” Schulz added that the visitors defended well in general by only allowing Jamaica to score one try. He also lauded the team’s attitude on the field. “The most pleasing aspect of the game from our point of view was the improvement shown

Garland excited about US Regionals hoping to repeat sub 47s feat ANGELO Garland’s sub 47s in the 400M is no lucky run; he hopes to prove this when he meets some of the best in the USA at the 2014 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field West Preliminary Championships. The TCI national 400M record holder (indoors, outdoors and juniors) admits that the May 29th31st meet will be “one of the biggest races” of his life. The Texas A&MCorpus Christi freshman feels he can make an impact at the races, especially since he broke his school record multi times this season and the national outdoor record twice in the last few weeks.

National record holder Angelo Garland aims to break the 47s barrier in the 400M again.

FASTER TIME Garland still feels he has more in the tank. He ran 46.82s at the 2014 Southland Conference Outdoor Championships (breaking his national record) in the USA two weeks ago. At that race the former

Munro College student said he just went with the crowd and then ran his own race before finishing strong. “I feel confident enough to go in and run a faster time,” Garland told the Weekly News this week. Since Garland qualified for the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field West Preliminary Championships he was forced to miss the World Relays set for Nassau this weekend. RELAY VICTORY Garland has not only dominated the 400M sprint, but he has also played his part in his school’s relay team. At the Outdoor Championships he anchored the 4X400M side to victory and helped them to a grand total of 49 points (the third highest total in the school’s history). Their time of 3:10.03 was two seconds below the previous school record.

and the “never give up” attitude. There were periods in the game when we were under immense pressure and the easy option would’ve been to surrender, but the boys hung in there together and stayed positive until the final whistle.” ADMIRABLE YOUTHS Coach Schulz was also pleased with the young players. “Each game they continue to improve and if they can apply themselves to get fitter and stronger they will be able to build a great foundation for years to come. Everyone knows they can compete

with these teams. The main objective is to continue to improve, the result of the game is not so important at this stage of rugby development in TCI. However, the boys know what they need to do to give themselves in the best chance to win games. The first game is always difficult as everyone is not sure how they will play as a team but having done that now we should be a lot more adhesive and confident going into the next game.” TCI will now host the Bahamas, ranked 93rd in the world on May 31st, before travelling to Mexico next month.

President’s Cup:

Trailblazers and AFC Academy advance to semis THE WIV Provo Premier League (PPL) winners the AFC Academy have reached the semi-finals of the President’s Cup after a 3-1 win over new side the Flamingo FC. The game was competitive with both teams playing quality football. Flamingo came out attacking, but with returning players: Marco Fenelus, who scored a great free kick, and Fred Dorvil, the league champions were always favourites. The Trailblazers FC were the first

to advance to the final four. The Trailblazers and the Academy will await the winners of Saturday’s clash between Beaches and the Sharks set for 17:30h at the Academy ground and the winners of the much anticipated clash between defending President’s Cup champions Rozo FC and former league winners Cheshire Hall next Thursday at the same venue. When the final four teams have been decided there will be another draw to decide the semi-finalists.

TCICA T20 Cricket Competition:

Quality Kings win again UNBEATEN half centuries from Kareem Jack and Sheldon Henry and four wickets for Ebbon Caesar propelled the Quality Kings to their second victory when action in the Turks and Caicos Cricket Association (TCICA) T20 Cricket Competition continued last Sunday at the Downtown Ball Park. Quality won the toss and inserted Jam Turk to take first strike. Wickets, however, began to tumble and only Kevin Hinds (37 5X4s and 2X6s), Glen Campbell (37 7X4s) and Jeffery Bascoe (27 5X4s) showed any fight. Eventual man-of-the-match Ebbon Caesar

did some serious damage when he grabbed four wickets in 1.4 overs for the loss of 14 runs. Damian St. Ange also caused pain with 3-30 from three overs as Jam Turk stumbled to 159-9 off their allotted overs. Jack, who has shown form this season, and Henry then belted balls to all parts of the ground in the run chase which ended in the 16th over for the loss of one wicket. Jack hit 11 fours and three sixes in his 79 while Henry went over the rope five times and reached it four times in his score of 60.


May 24 - 30, 2014

Sports National

45

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Team TCI excited about World Relays – Otuonye hopes to take recent form into meet

Ifeanyi Otuonye is expecting to take his recent university form into the World Relays.

TCI might lack the big names that will converge at the newly refurbished Thomas A Robinson National Stadium for the inaugural International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) World Relays this weekend in the Bahamas, but our team is full of heart. The five athletes set to represent us in the 4X200M relay are all eager to make their names. Ifeanyi Otuonye, the most accomplished of the lot, and virtual team leader, is hoping to take his recent form in the USA as a student of the Kansas State University to the relays. Otuonye has been outstanding in the relays for his school, and his announcement last Saturday that he had competed for over six weeks with a strained groin, proves that he is a fighter. Last Saturday the 19-year-old sophomore also equalled his national long jump record with a leap of 7.44M at the Big XII Conference. In the 4X400M relay Otuonye led his school to a time of 3:07.02 and a second place finish. Now injury free, the former Munro College student is raring to make his mark in the Bahamas.

Wadly Jean won the 200M run off a few weeks ago.

LOCAL ATHLETES Joining the US based athlete will be Wadly Jean, Frantzley Benjamin,

Wesly Chery and Courtney Missick. In a run off a few weeks ago in Provo to select the side Jean finished first in 21.78s. All the local based athletes were excited about the trip which will be their biggest to date. Jean said: “Competing in the World Relays is huge; it will be the biggest competition I have ever been to. I’m very excited to go there and do my best.” Benjamin, who is also excited about the race, is slightly injured, but he promises to give it his all. As the others, Chery was also excited about the big event: “I feel very excited that I was selected for the World Relays and I have a lot of confidence that we would do great at the meet.” Missick said that the relays: “are going to be intense…but our team is going to give it all we got.” On a personal note Missick said the relays will give him a lot of experience: “I’m hoping to learn a lot while I’m there.” Randy Ford travelled as team coach with Rosalie Ingham as manager. President Edith Skippings was also expected to travel with the team.

The GT Stallions retained their PABA Night League title with a 3-1 win over the Flyers in the championship series.

Stallions win three straight to keep PABA title THE GT Stallions have once again stamped their authority on basketball in the TCI and have proved that they are the best closers in a championship series. The now two-time champions lost Game one, but bounced back with three straight wins in the bestin-five series. Their opponents, the Five Cay Flyers were partially responsible; they were unable to hold it together at key moments in the last two games last weekend at the Gus Lightbourne Sports Complex. Flyers led big in Game three; in fact they were up 39-18 at the start of the third before Stallions clawed back into the game for a 62-59 point

win. In Game four Flyers also lost control, some due to the defence of the eventual winners along with turn overs and missed free throws. Flyers missed 11 free throws in the last three minutes of play, but Stallions also did some damage, especially when Tamaurri Lightbourne nailed a three pointer and added two clutch shots from the free throw line. The game ended 6957. Ray Harris led the Stallions with 12 points and eight boards while Kino Williams added 10 points. The Flyers were led by Jake Been with 17 points and Anthony Pratt with nine.

TCI Men’s national team photo: Back row: Louis Lancaster (Guest Coach: not travelling); Fritz (TCIFA Facility Manager: not travelling); Chris Gardiner; Marco Fenelus; Philip Shearer, Raymondson Azemard, Stevens Derilien, Jerry Liluce, Marc Fenelus, Alex Bryan, Craig Harrington (TCIFA Technical Director), Steve Kendrew (Team Manager); Front row: Rodney Davilmar, Fred Dorvil, James Rene, Paul Collis, Syed Hassan, Gavin Glinton, Kely Louima. Missing from photo: Billy Forbes, Luis Turbyfield, Wildens Delva, Jack McKnight and Peguy Derilien.

Forbes and Fenelus in national team for Caribbean Cup OVERSEAS based university footballers Billy Forbes and Marco Fenelus have been included in a 20-man squad for the upcoming CFU Caribbean Cup Group Two competition which will be held in Aruba from May 28th to June 4th. Forbes, who recently signed with the San Antonio Scorpions, and Fenelus, who plays for the

Cal State Fullerton University (NCAA division one level); have represented the TCI several times in the past. The pair will lead a strong side which includes some of the best footballers the islands have to offer. The full team reads: Raymondson Azemard, Luis Turbyfield, Marcdonald Fenelus,

Peguy Derilien, Chris Gardiner, Wildens Delva, Billy Forbes, Rodney Davilmar, Alex Bryan, Kely Louima, Jack McKnight, Jerry Liluce, Stevens Derilien, Marco Fenelus, Paul Collis, Phil Shearer, Gavin Glinton, James Rene, Fred Dorvil and Syed Hassan. Team TCI would play the home team, the BVI and French Guiana.


46

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 24 - 30, 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 24 - 30, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

47


48

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 24 - 30, 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.