Turks and Caicos Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 25 | No. 18 | May 7 - 13, 2011

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Phillips vows stronger ties with business community

NEWEST consultative forum member John Phillips has vowed to strive to re-energise the troubled body despite some initial apprehension at the weighty task ahead.

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ON THE WEB tcweeklynews.com

M. Caicos land probe heats up

CORRUPTION investigations into the massive ‘secret’ land deal in Middle Caicos have intensified with dozens of people now being questioned across the island.

Lucky Andrew wins hoard of luxury gifts Land scam

accused on trial

THE TRIAL against a man accused of swindling people out of more than $80,000 for land which did not belong to him began this week.

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Salt islands shortlisted for World Heritage status

THE SALT islands could soon be ranked alongside the Pyramids, Great Wall of China and Statue of Liberty after being shortlisted for World Heritage status.

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NATIONAL

Seymour quits forum Telecoms boss reveals budget drama as tipping point

By Gemma Handy LIME chief Drexwell Seymour has become the latest person to quit the fractured consultative forum – weeks after the body erupted amid budget drama.

Mr Seymour told the Weekly News that the blow-up in the aftermath of the forum’s axed April 5 meeting had been the final straw.

Sparks flew when six forum members, including Mr Seymour – infuriated over the tardy receipt of vital relevant documents – refused to attend a scheduled budget debate.

The meeting was subsequently rendered inquorate and the budget controversially passed without forum input.

It is not the first time forum members have taken umbrage over the late delivery of paperwork with some accusing the Government of paying lip service to the body.

The telecoms boss has been replaced by 61-year-old Mac Motors businessman John Phillips.

It is the latest shuffle within the embattled forum established in 2009 to act as a go-between for ordinary Islanders and the interim administration.

Initial chairman Carlos Simons stepped down in March last year to be replaced by former teacher and Cancer Foundation president Lillian Misick. Erstwhile Chief Secretary Cynthia Astwood and pastor Courtney Missick were appointed as inner tensions continued to rumble.

Mr Seymour revealed he had been poised to bow out of the forum on

two previous occasions but had been asked to reconsider by the Governor.

“What really pushed me to do it this time was the whole process with the budget hearing. I told the Governor that was the burning point for me.”

He said while he enjoyed the opportunity to take part in debates and had found the forum to be a “rewarding experience” he had grown increasingly frustrated with how the organisation’s role fitted into the interim administration’s operations.

“We would debate Bills and other matters but we would never see the end result.

“Whenever we make recommendations we never know what’s happened to them, whether they were accepted or not, we get no feedback.”

Mr Seymour said it was crucial to ensure forum members were given enough time to prepare for debates and were equipped with the necessary paperwork well in advance.

“Another thing we could do as a forum is better communicate with the public by holding public meetings before a Bill is to be debated.

“I would personally seek people’s views by calling them up. It could be done better on a public basis and then we can go back and say this is what people think.”

He added that he had received mixed feelings from the community following news of his departure.

“Some have said they are disappointed and that I should not have given up.

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

Drexwell Seymour said lack of “feedback” from the Government to forum recommendations sparked acrimony.

“Others have congratulated me.”

Governor Gordon Wetherell expressed “regret” over Mr Seymour’s departure and said he had been “grateful” for the businessman’s input to the forum.

During his tenure, the LIME boss has striven to represent business people in the TCI. Last year he implored the Government to urgently review stevedoring charges which he said were stifling local enterprise.

He also initiated a ‘buy local’

campaign after conducting a Provowide survey of firms who said they were losing out due to Islanders shopping for goods and services overseas.

Fellow forum member, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, said Mr Seymour’s exit left a “void”.

“His accounting background coupled with being a major player in the private sector was an invaluable asset.

“I know he did not take this decision lightly and I salute him for his contribution made whilst there.”

The outspoken attorney, who has often been vocal against the Government’s seeming disregard of the forum, said the organisation’s role needed to be reviewed.

“After two years maybe it needs to be assessed as to whether it remains useful in its current form or whether we as members are making sense in our role.

“I believe the forum can be of greater use to the people of this country in this period and more importantly in ushering us into a period where we see the return of elected representatives.

“It must be seen to be one of the institutions preparing for this return

by practising transparency, honesty and integrity.”

She continued: “There are many who remain who still have the best interests of the country at heart and I serve for no other reason than to speak up on what I believe is in the best interests of us as a people.

“Whilst it may not always be popular for many to be on the forum, I believe it can be made more useful.

I will not be distracted or discouraged on this path.”

Ms Cartwright-Robinson revealed she had come under pressure to quit following her decision to boycott last month’s budget debate.

“Persons have called on me and other colleagues to resign because we felt it best to adequately prepare for the budget session.

“I do not think I was wrong for wanting to do my best and if I am fired for this (as some have called for), then and only then will I bow out and I will do so gracefully with a clear conscience knowing that I served honestly and to the best of my ability.”

Forum chairman Lillian Misick declined to comment on Mr Seymour’s departure at the present time.

“Look to the future, not the mistakes of the past” New forum member Phillips vows stronger ties with business community

By Gemma Handy NEWEST consultative forum member John Phillips has vowed to strive to re-energise the troubled body despite some initial apprehension at the weighty task ahead.

It is hoped the 61-year-old business magnate will provide the vital missing link between the interim administration and the largely disenfranchised business community.

And he may prove to be just the fire the crippled forum needs.

It is not the first time Mr Phillips has put his head above the parapet in an effort to give the listless economy a shot in the arm.

He was one of a small group of fed-up business people so frustrated at the fiscal decline – and the interim administration’s seeming ineptitude in addressing it – that they stumped up the costs of flying in British MP Andrew Rosindell to meet with the community last August.

The Scottish-born Claymore Group director has lived in the TCI for 24 years and was made a Belonger in 2007.

He jointly heads the Provo-based

John Phillips said greater emphasis needed to be placed on creating new jobs and opening up more commercial possibilities.

financial services group which comprises a string of firms including the Mac Motors dealership, plus real estate, bulk fuels and other enterprises.

Mr Phillips admitted to an “element of apprehension” in taking up the position during an interview with the Weekly News.

“The general perception of the

forum is not that great. People seem to feel it does not do much or does not have any real say but I think, hopefully, I can make a positive contribution in that sense.”

The Mac Motors boss replaces LIME chief Drexwell Seymour who recently announced his resignation.

“I was told the forum wants to have someone to represent business which I think is good.

“I would like to see more communication with the public.

“Without an elected Government, we don’t have Parliament or a House of Assembly in a conventional sense.

“In a typical government structure, members of the Cabinet have a specific mandate to run departments of government. The House generally generates new business and forges new links.

“Currently, there is a missing component.”

Mr Phillips said greater emphasis needed to be placed on creating new jobs, new industries and opening up more commercial possibilities.

“The need for new taxation has continued 

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NATIONAL

Middle Caicos Crown land probe heats up

By Gemma Handy CORRUPTION investigations into the massive ‘secret’ land deal in Middle Caicos have intensified with dozens of people now being questioned across the island.

Members of Helen Garlick’s SIPT team are said to be moving in on Islanders connected to the alleged scam exposed by the Weekly News last year.

Residents say sleuths are going house to house armed with a list of around 15 names and requesting information on where they can be found.

It is not yet clear whether the hunted individuals are suspected of buying parcels of the sprawling 2,580-acre site to sell on at Belonger-discounted rates.

The illicit practice of land ‘flipping’ can glean colossal savings for unscrupulous developers.

Many blocks making up the gigantic site had been divided up into parcels of less than five acres, presumably so as not to attract suspicion.

The site’s sale to private company Juniper Hole in February 2008 is believed to be the largest transfer of Crown land in the country’s history.

The area encompasses places of huge ecological and historical

significance including Crossing Place Trail, promised to the National Trust by the ousted Government several years ago but never honoured.

The popular tourist area is a nesting and feeding ground for a variety of rare birds and the principle habitat for grasses used by indigenous basket weavers.

It is also home to the original trails used in bygone days by residents travelling on foot between North and Middle Caicos at low tide.

The transfer has also attracted the attention of civil recovery lawyers, said to be “well advanced” in their inquiries which began last summer.

In March, Laurence Harris, from international law firm EAPD, said official court proceedings were still to be issued.

The area of magnificent untouched beauty lies north west of the island adjacent to stunning Mudjin Harbour.

It is known for its natural coves, blowing hole, secluded beaches and breathtaking vistas.

It is a prize nesting place for the threatened white-tailed tropicbird, a natural conch nursery and a feeding ground for pink flamingos and great egrets.

Land survey department documents show the land sold to include the Juniper Inlet channel, Juniper Hole itself, a two-mile portion of the public highway plus land on both sides and more than half of the causeway.

In addition, it encompasses two government docks, the former ferry landing and the public boat

disenfranchised. There has to be more focus on developing local business.

“I hope I can encourage the members of the forum to take a more positive stance.”

He added that he would like to see closer links with the Chamber of Commerce, currently headed by Tanya Parnell.

“Tanya is now working hard on putting together proposals for expansion of the economy.

“The forum should have a close connection to the Chamber in order to grow our economy,” he added.

In a statement issued on Monday Governor Gordon Wetherell said he was pleased to announce Mr Phillips’ appointment.

“He will bring with him a wealth of valuable experience of the business world,” he said.

Born in Aberdeen in 1950, Mr Phillips was educated at independent day school Robert Gordons College before going on to study civil engineering and business management at the Robert Gordons Institute of Technology.

He worked in the family hotel business before becoming involved in the offshore oil industry in the North Sea specialising in subsea

The land is believed to have been sold for around $6,000 an acre. It is estimated locally to have been worth up to $300,000 per acre.

Developers are also said to have acquired freehold title for a 50 per cent down payment.

The SIPT team did not respond to a request for comment up to press time.

Land scam accused on trial

By Samantha Dash

THE TRIAL against a man accused of swindling people out of more than $80,000 for land which did not belong to him began this week.

Several witnesses in the Supreme Court testified that Thomas Ewing collected their money for various plots but never gave them any legal documents.

The 64-year-old TC Islander was charged with obtaining property by deception for selling land that belonged to the TCI Government.

It was said that between January and September of 2007,

“Look to the future, not the ... been such a significant issue. The real answer is, if the economy was larger, taxation would be lower.

“We are very much a one horse town with tourism. We need to look at other possibilities, perhaps, fishing, exports, or other types of industry.

“As a financial centre we would be very well placed to look at internationally based commerce centred here.”

He continued that current possibilities were often overshadowed by a tendency to look to the mistakes of the past and not at the opportunities ahead.

“Unfortunately we have been so focused internally on the troubles of the past rather than looking at how to fix things in the future.

“I don’t think the forum is as effective as it should be.

“I would like to put some energy into moving in a more positive fashion with local businesses of all kinds, whether expat or locally owned, from construction companies to small retail stores.

“All we are seeing is medical tax, interim taxation measures and then VAT. “In many ways the business community is feeling

launching ramp.

PNP leader Clayton Greene, who acted as legal counsel for the investors, has subsequently attracted a wealth of scrutiny. Mr Greene was Speaker of the House of Assembly at the time.

He has consistently denied any impropriety, saying he had no financial interest in the transaction.

engineering and maintenance.

He later formed Falcon Marine Ltd, a specialist marine support company providing training and salvage services in Japan.

His subsequent managerial appointment with Kestrel Underwater Engineering Ltd propelled the company to the fourth largest diving and subsea engineering company in the world.

He arrived in the TCI in 1987 and in 1992 merged his interests in company management and insurance management with those of McCollum and Newlands to form the Claymore Group.

While the group is still very much involved in financial services it is now arguably the largest multidiscipline service company in the Islands.

Over the years Mr Phillips has served on various organisations for the development of financial services and inward investment as well as serving for many years as secretary and later president of the TCI’s Golf Association.

He received a permanent residence certificate in 1998, became a naturalised citizen in 1999 and was made a Belonger in May 2007.

Ewing dishonestly obtained money from seven persons by claiming that he had legal authority to sell parcels in Five Cays.

The witnesses all testified that they paid Ewing the money he requested and he gave them signed receipts.

He then told them that they could go ahead and build on the land and there would be no problems with the Planning Department.

“Everything is already sorted out, you don’t have to go to Planning,” he reportedly told them.

According to Joseph Ulysse, upon the recommendation of one of his friends, he went to see Ewing to purchase a piece of land.

He met Ewing in the subdivision in Five Cays where he was clearing the land with a bulldozer.

Ulysse, a Haitian national, enquired to buy a piece of land but was told that the land belonged to Ewing’s son.

A few weeks later, he again met Ewing but this time at the airport.

The accused asked him if he was still interested in purchasing the land and Ulysse answered ‘yes’.

The accused then instructed him to bring $6,000 deposit that afternoon and gave him his cellular phone number to contact him.

Ewing said that he was selling the land for $12,000.

A few days later, Ulysse paid Ewing $5,000 and collected receipts – these he produced in court.

After several part-payments, Ulysse had a balance of $3,000 to pay but refused to hand over the money until he got a lawyer involved.

He never got the lawyer but started making plans to build on the land.

Ulysse contracted an architect to draw a plan but the man asked for the land’s parcel number.

When Ulysse called Ewing, he was told that a plan already existed for the property and that he could start building on the 100’ x 100’ plot that was marked out for him.

Ewing had measured it out using a big measuring tape and insisted that the relevant papers for the land were coming from the Planning Department.

Pierre Jacques, a Haitian national,

said that after he gave the defendant $6,000 he bought blocks and cement to start construction on the land.

“He told me that I could start bringing materials,” Jacques testified.

“He (Ewing) said that if Planning come, tell them that I building for him.”

Ewing even physically marked out his 100’ x 100’ plot and showed him how he should build his home.

The witness said that after he paid a total of $10,000 Ewing hounded him for the balance.

When officers from the Planning Department finally visited the premises and told him that he was on the land illegally, Jacques had already finished building his home.

Emmanuel Thervinen’s testimony differed a little from the others in that he knew Ewing prior to the land deal.

“I know he had a project in Five Cays development so I asked him to help me get a piece of land,” Thervinen told the seven-member jury panel.

“Not now,” Ewing apparently replied.

Thervinen, another Haitian national, said that he knew that Ewing usually sold land for $6,000 to $7,000.

However, after some months had passed, Ewing told him that the price had increased to $12,500.

After failing to strike a bargain for a discount, Thervinen agreed to pay the money for the land.

After the money was handed over, Ewing gave him a receipt for the full $12,500.

When Thervinen asked about the papers for the land Ewing had a reply.

“Don’t worry. Someone else owes me money and when they pay then I will give everyone papers at the same time.”

Like all the others, to date Thervinen has not received any land papers.

Thervinen went ahead and constructed a four-bedroom house at the cost of around $35,000.

During the entire proceedings Ewing sat with his face turned away from all the witnesses at all times.

He was represented by Chalmers Misick.

The case continues before Justice Richard Williams.

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

Taxation ramification RECENT tax hikes are already having an effect everywhere from the grocery store to the gas pumps.

Measures put in place so far include a four per cent customs processing fee on all imported goods including basic food items, 25c on gas, and increases to business licence fees.

We asked readers how the effects were being felt – and what you plan to do to limit them.

Alarming lax legacy

“The reason why these measures were brought in was to pay off the huge government debt.

“One of the main reason for this debts is by virtue of the fact that they never collected most of what they should have and this trend is continuing.

“Since the new rules came in I have had three things brought in and they just happened to be via different courier companies; FedEx, DHL and IBC. “None of them collected the four per cent!

I even asked about it and I was told, ‘oh we were busy so did not bother’ or ‘don’t worry about it, it’s only a small amount’.

“I even phoned Customs and asked them about it and they said, ‘oh, you should come down here and pay the four per cent yourself, we know the couriers are not collecting it’.

“I know that if it something comes in via ship it does have the four per cent added so why are some following the rules and some not?

“No wonder the Government has no money; they never enforce their own collection laws.

“Have the Government workers who have had a pay cut and other cutbacks thought that if they chased and enforced all that was due they would get their 10 per cent back?

“It’s about time that Customs went after anyone who does not enforce the laws and collect the duties owed.

“If we all paid it in the first place, we would not be in such a mess now.”

Insult to injury

“It’s the beginning of the end! The British mentality is taxation and it will have a fatal effect on the economy.

“People are struggling enough and these additional taxes add insult to injury. I will be cutting back on everything.”

Lay offs ahead

“I am involved in the operation of a business in the TCI. We have yet to experience the full impact of the increased taxation.

“However, based upon a recent budgeting exercise for our next fiscal year, I can say that the combined measures may very well be lethal to many businesses.

“Our expenses had already increased

dramatically due to escalating fuel, electricity and health insurance costs.

“Add in the impact of the new taxes and fees and it is difficult to see how we can continue to operate without losing money.

“At the very least, we may have to lay off some employees. I’m sure we aren’t alone.”

Economic exodus

“Of course the increases hurt, but in the short term I think people have very little choice but to ‘suck it up’.

“You can’t stop eating or driving cars. Yes, you can choose not to run the AC as much, live on cheaper food items, and not drive as much.

“As for the long term though, unless real economic incentives to live, work and start businesses in the TCI become evident soon, I think more and more people will soon be forced to leave.

“The economic hardships, coupled with the continuing harassment by the bureaucrats on a daily basis, will no doubt lead to another exodus.

“There are too many countries in the region that are far more welcoming than the TCI, such as St Kitts & Nevis.

“In today’s economic climate there shouldn’t be anyone living in the TCI who doesn’t have a Plan B.”

Please no more

“I knew it was coming but did not expect it all at once. My only thing is, when will it stop?

“I don’t think that there should have been any more increase in customs duty, at least not on basic food items, luxury items maybe.

“Milk, flour, eggs and baby food items should be duty free when it’s for personal use and consumptions.

“I am trying to cut my energy costs down but when you have children like mine, they just don’t think about it like that yet.

“I buy in quantities when I find dry goods on sale, especially if it has an expiry date that lasts for a few months.

“In the end the depth will be less but please, for right now, no more taxes. A lot of people are hurting as it is. More are losing jobs and their homes.

“You know everything around us is being raised except the minimum wage. Even today you have more persons having higher blood pressures.”

TCI is not alone

“It might be relevant to know that times are very difficult in the UK too with increases in taxes of various kinds, civil servants being made redundant and lay-offs and spending cutbacks strongly affecting all sections of society.

“Turks is by no means alone in all of this.

“With best wishes for the future from a descendant of someone from Salt Cay.”

Healthy choices binned

“My heart sinks every time I notice the gas prices have gone up again. I drive a small car but it is now costing me around $10 a day to run it.

“Supermarket prices also seem to have soared well beyond the customs processing fee. We constantly hear about the need to eat more fruit and veg but people are being forced to forego them due to ever increasing prices.

“The interim administration is in danger of running this country into the ground. They can bring in all the foreign experts they like but unless these people properly understand the local landscape and what works for TCI, turning the Islands into a ‘mini Britain’ will destroy it for generations to come.

“I appreciate the need to work towards a balanced budget but hiking up taxes without employing any innovative methods for encouraging inward investment, while deterring those who do want to invest with endless red tape and sullen officials, is not the answer.”

No end in sight

“The taxes are having a devastating effect on the Islands and the people of the TCI. They are killing the economy and reducing the effect that the airport expansion may have on these Islands.

“It is expected that greater investment would come to the Islands as a result of the airport expansion but people want to invest in a destination that used to be run and managed as ‘tax free’.

“There seems no end in sight for taxes. We have been told that the debt the interim Government met was $350m and growing.

“We already know that the hospitals will cost the country upwards of $125m and some estimates are that it will cost $2.5bn. That s just it. No one is aware of what all these taxes are being paid for.

“Most of the public are aware that former Ministers and developers hold over a few hundred million but there is no undertaking or promise by the EAPD asset recovery team that once these monies are recovered that taxes could go down.

“The four per cent customs processing fee, like the increase in business license fees, can only have one effect – a reduction in imports and a reduction in revenue.

“One would have thought also that the $0.25 a gallon tax on fuel imposed on the public by the former PNP Government would have been removed but the interim Government have increased this tax twice and the public is paying close to $0.75 per gallon on fuel. This

is causing people to stay home. In a perverse way it may encourage dead-beat dads to stay home with their kids. In another way it may force employees to stay in the office and get work done.

“Most of all these taxes will slow down an already slowed economy. There is no reason for the public service to be so high as $72m per year.

“As projects come in to the Islands, there should be a freeze on work permits so that public officers who wish to leave Government payrolls may do so easily.

“The objective is to reduce payrolls pain free so that public spending will reduce and taxes will slow as well.

“Now that the much heralded tourism season is over, one can see a reduction in cars on the road.

“Filling a tank of gas for a four cylinder engine is still too much. One will be staying off the road more, reducing spending more, saving more if that's possible.

“The economy will suffer.”

Severe belttightening

“We are now car pooling and looking for a motorcycle. We are determined to cut our gasoline usage to one third.

“Last month we cut our electric bill by 20 per cent and this month we are looking to reduce it by 40 per cent. We are buying groceries which are on sale at IGA and cutting down on desserts.

“We may not register our car later this year when the licence expires.

“We have cut out bringing anything in to eliminate duty and stevedoring charges. On our one shopping trip to the USA per year we will pay the extra baggage charges and as a family we will try to keep as close to our personal exemption as possible.

“Our neighbours are all doing the same.

Our Haitian acquaintances on work permits are very angry at the Governor and may not renew their work permits and join some of the other illegals. One said, ‘the worst that can happen is they will pay my way home’.

“There is no way this heavy taxation will work. The Governor and his supervisors in London will have to face the facts they failed in their responsibilities when this massive debt was being run up during the last administration.

“Now this Governor has failed to solve any of the problems since he arrived. After nearly three years he and Britain clearly own the financial and continuing poor government administrative problems. We cannot and will not bail them out.

“Hopefully the new Government in London will send us someone who can fix the Government here along with some money we do not have to pay back.”

 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 7 - 13, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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NATIONAL

Salt islands shortlisted for World Heritage status

By Gemma Handy THE SALT islands could soon be ranked alongside the Pyramids, Great Wall of China and Statue of Liberty after being shortlisted for World Heritage status.

National Trust chiefs are celebrating initial success in their bid to have Salt Cay, Grand Turk, South Caicos and surrounding cays included on the prestigious list due to their unique wildlife, flora and fauna.

The TCI was one of just 11 entries – whittled down from 38 in the UK and its territories – to make it onto a ‘tentative’ line-up compiled by Britain.

The list will now be submitted to UNESCO which will begin casting the final nominations next year.

If successful, the country could become one of less than 200 natural sites worldwide to be deemed to have ‘outstanding universal value’.

The Trust’s previous bid a decade ago for Salt Cay alone was unsuccessful.

This time greater emphasis was placed on the country’s myriad birdlife and insects, threatened native reptiles and endemic heather.

A panel of experts has now recommended the TCI for inclusion on account of its “high number of endemic species and others of international importance, partially dependent on the conditions created by the oldest established salt-pan development in the Caribbean”.

In addition to being the epicentre of the country’s once roaring salt industry, Salt Cay in particular is a mecca for birds including doves,

warblers, mockingbirds, herons, kingfishers, sandpipers, kestrels, ospreys, flamingoes and egrets.

While the panel recognised the territory’s importance as a breeding area for seabirds, it was not convinced the case had been made for nomination under cultural criteria.

The team expressed concern over commercial development pressures and a lack of systemic protection for historic buildings.

The Trust’s executive director, Ethlyn Gibbs-Williams, told the Weekly News she was delighted to get the seal of approval for the first round.

“We are very pleased to have got this far, it’s very good for the National Trust and great news for our heritage.

“It will help raise the profile of the country, increase tourism and bring more opportunities here.

“If we make it onto the final list, it ensures protection and preservation of the sites. This would also help people here in the TCI to recognise the importance of our heritage and boost national pride in what we have.”

Fellow overseas territory St Helena in the Atlantic, where Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled after the Battle of Waterloo, was also shortlisted, along with Gibraltar’s Gorham’s Cave Complex.

The other nine sites, all in England, include Cumbria’s stunning Lake District; Chatham Dockyard and its defences in Kent; Creswell Crags in Derbyshire/Nottinghamshire; Jodrell Bank Observatory in Cheshire;

The native rock iguana can be seen widely in some TCI cays, despite its endangered status.

TCI is home to the oldest established salt-pan development in the Caribbean.

Mousa, Old Scatness and Jarlshof in Shetland, Scotland; the slate industry of North Wales; the Flow Country in Scotland; and the Forth Rail Bridge, also in Scotland.

Britain’s Tourism and Heritage Minister John Penrose said: “Few places in the world can match the wealth of wonderful heritage we have available in the UK. “The 11 places that make up the new UK Tentative List are fantastic examples of both our cultural and natural heritage and I believe they have every chance of joining famous names like the Sydney Opera House and the Canadian Rockies to become World Heritage Sites.”

Whether sites are given a nomination slot by UNESCO will depend on the robustness of their case.

They must be deemed as having special cultural or physical significance to be successful.

World Heritage status sets planning restrictions for developers in terms of the height and quality of new buildings in a designated area and protects views of the listed landmarks.

There are currently 28 listed sites in the UK and its territories.

Locations in the overseas territories include the wildlife sanctuaries of Henderson Island, in the Pitcairn Islands in the South Pacific, and Gough and the Inaccessible Islands

The rare West Indian whistling duck breeds in the salt islands.

in the Atlantic. Also designated is the historic town of St George, Bermuda’s first capital.

Worldwide, there are a total of 911 sites listed. They include 704 cultural areas, 180 natural, and 27 mixed properties.

The UK’s Tentative List was updated following extensive public consultation with nominations invited from local authorities and others throughout the UK, its

territories and dependencies.

The Tentative List is an inventory of important heritage and natural sites that a country is considering for inscription on the World Heritage List, thereby becoming World Heritage Sites.

The Tentative List can be updated at any time, but inclusion on the list is a prerequisite to being considered for inscription within a five to 10year period.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 7 - 13, 2011

NATIONAL

The TCI had been hotly tipped among bookies for the newlyweds’ honeymoon.

Royalist revellers soak up the sun during a wedding-themed party on Grace Bay Beach.

TCI snubbed for Royal honeymoon

By Gemma Handy TCI looks set to lose out to an exclusive Indian Ocean hideaway for the much-anticipated honeymoon of the Royal newlyweds.

Prince William and Kate are poised to jet off to a secret location later this month, away from the eyes of the watching world.

Hopes had been rife that the loved-up couple would plump for the TCI for some ‘alone time’, giving the country a momentous tourism boost.

The Islands had been widely tipped by bookmakers and travel experts as high on the list of possible venues, second only to Africa in scores of top 10 location lists for the couple’s consideration.

Destinations such as the Maldives and Mauritius are known worldwide for their sparkling aquamarine water, crystalline white sands and

pristine coral reefs. The Maldives Government was among those to give the couple an official invitation for their romantic recess.

But whether any the Indian Ocean’s numerous islands can rival the charm of the TCI is up for debate.

The couple were widely expected to depart for their honeymoon this week after last Friday’s wedding.

But it was announced at the weekend that William would first return to work at RAF Valley in Anglesey.

St James’s Palace has denied the delay was amid security fears following the slaying of Osama bin Laden, saying it was a personal decision.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will apparently stay in an exclusive $6,600-a-night villa on an undisclosed island during their 10day holiday.

They are due to fly out by private

jet in mid-May before being taken by helicopter from the mainland to the tropical retreat.

Two Scotland Yard protection officers are said to have checked out the destination a fortnight ago to ensure it will give the couple the privacy they crave. It is believed that not even Kate is yet aware of the exact location.

British newspapers are reporting that the coconut-grove surrounded resort offers almost complete isolation with just a handful of luxury villas dotted across the island.

Hand-crafted out of local wood, each has an open-air bathroom area with sunken bath and shower, a private garden and a wooden deck with freshwater rock pool and yoga pavilion.

There is a butler on hand in every villa, and a personal chef will conjure up a daily menu based on freshly-

caught fish and whatever delicacies the couple wish.

It has been described as a “Robinson Crusoe kind of place” offering beautiful hikes and picnics.

More than two billion people worldwide are estimated to have tuned in for the big day on April 29, marked by a public holiday in the TCI. Prince William and Kate Middleton exchanged vows in front of 1,900 wellwishers in Westminster Abbey.

The bride was stunning in her ivory-white Sarah Burton gown with a lace trimmed veil covering her face, held in place by the Queen’s diamond tiara, and holding a tiny bouquet of white flowers.

Her maid of honour, sister Pippa Middleton, held the bride’s train as she entered the abbey hand in hand with her father.

The Royal couple made the

Kids get playtime donation CHILDREN at a primary school in Providenciales now have more places to relax during their break time, thanks to staff at PPC. This week workers at the power supplies donated six used reels to the Mills Institute on Leeward Highway.

And they were all already painted in the school colours and ready for the pupils to enjoy.

During the presentation on Monday Eustace Musgrove, PPC’s environmental and safety specialist, explained that the donation was all part of the company’s commitment to the environment.

He added that the donation to the Mills Institute was just the beginning, as the company hopes to donate reels and wooden poles to other schools across the country.

Staff at PPC donate the reels to the primary school

ceremony more personal with a prayer they wrote asking God for His help in serving others and acknowledging their love for their families.

They later delighted the watching crowds with two public kisses from the balcony of Buckingham Palace.

While no official celebrations took place in the TCI, a number of individual festivities were held, including some on Grace Bay Beach and among staff at Provo hospital.

One hospital worker told the Weekly News: “It was a shame nothing official was organised here to celebrate such a huge occasion, especially this being a British territory. It was very early in the morning but I expected something at least.

“As for the Royal couple’s honeymoon choice, the Indian Ocean has nothing on TCI’s beaches.”

May 7 - 13, 2011

& CrimeCourt

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

WITH Samantha Dash–RIGBY

Gun charge against policeman dismissed MAGISTRATE Clifton Warner dismissed the charge of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear made against police officer Dwayne Williams.

The decision was made after Williams’s defence counsel Oliver Smith argued two points to the magistrate and presented case laws to support his arguments.

Smith stated that police officers are precluded from such charges and are protected under Section 30 of the Firearms Ordinance.

In addition, if someone has a legal firearm they can be charged with misuse, murder, assault, etc, but not with possession with intent to cause fear, Smith said.

Magistrate Warner agreed with the defence and dismissed the case.

Principal Crown Counsel JoAnn Meloche told the Weekly News that she thought the Magistrate’s decision

9

to be an error.

“It was premature to dismiss the case at that stage of the proceedings without hearing all the evidence,” Ms Meloche said.

“It was the correct charge and we will be appealing the ruling,” Meloche ended.

However, Smith thought it was the right decision since a police officer cannot be charged with this offence whilst in the performance of his duty.

It was said that on November 5 2008, Williams and other officers went into a bar in search of illegal immigrants.

Patrons at the bar were presenting their work permits to the officers but Williams threw them aside saying; ‘I don’t care about that’.

He then apparently whipped out a firearm that was not issued to him by the Government and fired a shot into the ceiling.

Man jailed for drugs ONE young man was sent to prison for nine months after police officers allegedly caught him with illegal drugs while his co-accused was set free with a warning.

Lazario Jennings, 24, was jointly charged with Ketroy Rose for possession of marijuana and possession with intent to supply.

Jennings pleaded guilty to possession of 826 grams of the illegal substance but denied that he intended to supply it to others.

He maintained that Rose had nothing to do with the drugs and took full responsibility for it.

The facts stated that on April 2 police were driving along Millennium Highway and stopped the car in which the two young men were travelling.

Jennings was the driver and Rose was in the passenger seat.

The police ordered the men out of the vehicle and told them that they intended to search their persons and the vehicle for illegal drugs.

When asked if they had anything illegal in the car, Jennings replied: “No officer. We were smoking a lil’ joint.”

A body search on the men revealed nothing illegal but on the floor of the driver’s side, the police found a white plastic bag with marijuana.

Immediately Jennings said: “Officer, the weed is mine. Ketroy Rose had nothing to do with it; I just gave him a ride.”

The two men were taken into custody and during a thorough body search police officers found almost $2,000 in Rose’s pockets and $30.50 on Jennings.

Rose denied any knowledge of the marijuana to the police and pleaded not guilty in court.

On behalf of Jennings, defence attorney Donhue Gardiner explained to Magistrate Clifton Warner that his client had a dependency on marijuana and needed serious help.

It was his opinion that it would

not be in Jennings’s best interest or the people of the Islands if he were sent to jail.

Gardner proposed a suspended custodial sentence and maybe a substantial fine so that Jennings could seek and obtain the necessary help to beat the habit.

The magistrate was not convinced and sent Jennings to prison.

The prosecution then withdrew the charges against Rose and Magistrate Warner had a few words of warning for him.

“I don’t want you to get the impression that this court does not have street wisdom.

“You are on the edge of the cliff, the next time you will fall over.

“Stay away from the cliff,” the magistrate warned.

The car, which belonged to Jennings’s aunt, in which the two accused were travelling was confiscated along with the monies.

Everything was released to the rightful owners.

Anglican Church Women celebrate 47 years

MORE than 700 women from the Anglican church of Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas will be attending a huge ceremony this May. The event in Grand Bahama marks the 47th anniversary of the Anglican Church Women (ACW).

This year’s conference theme is ‘Our God, Through the Ages’ and the scripture reference is Psalms 46:10 and 11.

A spokesperson for the event said: “This year we want to exalt the power of our God, His presence through the ages and that He is our protection and source of our strength.

“We are prayerfully anticipating that each participant would be further strengthened spiritually by the knowledge that God indeed is our fortress and that He can be relied upon in all circumstances.”

Delegates will be coming from every parish within the diocese to this year’s conference which is being organised by the Grand Bahama ACW branches in conjunction with the ACW Council.

In keeping with the council’s focus on enhancing the spiritual life of the Anglican Church Women there will be a number of pre-conference events.

The first is the annual prayer breakfast at the British Colonial Hilton in Nassau on May 7, under the theme ‘Thank God for Mama’.

The featured speaker will be the church’s first ordained female clergy Reverend Angela Palacious.

Members of the Anglican Church Women (ACW) enjoy last year’s conference

The council plans to honour three past ACW council presidents during the conference - Deidre Rolle, Brenda Bain and Marjorie Stuart.

Before travelling to Grand Bahama attendees will join together at a pre-conference Eucharistic service on May 11 at Christ Church Cathedral.

The sermon will be delivered by another female priest, Reverend Willish Johnson, rector of St Johnthe-Baptist Parish, Abaco.

The contingent will then travel to

Grand Bahama on May 14 and the conference will officially commence on May 15 at the Church of the Good Shepherd, Pinder’s Point.

Business and conference sessions will be held from Monday, May 16, to Wednesday, May 18 at Christ the King Church Activity Centre, Freeport, Grand Bahama.

There will be speakers from within the Anglican Diocese “filled with knowledge and enthusiasm about spreading the word of God”.

POLICE REMINDERS WITH CALVIN CHASE DETECTIVE POLICE SERGEANT AS A driver, I have often seen persons failing to conform to basic traffic laws.

It is an offence to disregard any indication given by a police officer, traffic sign or signal.

A prudent driver should always be alert for traffic signs and signals.

Violation of this law is a ticketable offence and the fine is $100.

10

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 7 - 13, 2011

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

Fiscal plan is sketchy and confusing Dear Editor, The 2011/12 financial plan for the Turks & Caicos Islands is incomplete and confusing.

One of the important things that will motivate potential investors to invest is the ability of the Government to show this is a safe place to invest because it is financially well managed and governed. That reduces the investment risk for any potential investor.

The most important thing that will create jobs and sell real estate is achieving economic stability.

Does the 2011/12 budget look like the Government is going to achieve a balanced budget by 2013/14? I have been examining three documents that provide the public with information on the country’s finances including for the fiscal year, 2011/12.

Document 1 – TCI National Accounts Report February 2011 - issued by DEPS February 2011.

Page eight document indicates that as of fiscal year 2009/10 the TCI had a national debt of $74.4 million.

However, the yearly debt amounts column is titled ‘TCIG Serviced’ loans and the figures associated with other columns do not relate in a logical manner. Similarly, yearly entries for other pages in the document titled ‘Fiscal Accounts – Revenue and Expenditure’ do not indicate any payments of interest or principal payments of loans.

Add to that, loans are treated as both a source of revenue and an expenditure item in various entries.

The application is not in accordance with internationally recognised accounting rules. The result is a confusing, incomplete picture of TCI revenues and expenditures.

Document 2 – 2011/12 Budget Statement - presented to the consultative forum April 5 2011. This is another confusing, incomplete presentation of the 2011/12 budget.

Frankly, the forum should have refused to deal with the budget until a more definitive, complete document could be presented.

I have managed a number of businesses and this document falls far short of being a budget presentation. If my financial manager presented this document to me as a yearly budget I would have seriously considered terminating his employment!

As an example, it states that the TCI has been running a significant budget deficit since 2007 and has accumulated high levels of debt as a result. However, there is no mention of the amount of debt TCI has

accumulated nor what actions are planned for 2011/12 and subsequent fiscal years to reduce the oppressive debt load!

This is one of the most serious financial issues to be addressed if we are to achieve economic stability and growth. The budget presentation does not present any factual information on debt nor is there any mention regarding what will be done to correct this serious issue! The presentation document is incomplete and confusing. At best it is a statement of the highlights of cash flows and not even a complete one at that.

Document 3 - Guide to the Budget 2011/12 issued by the finance department. This has some interesting graphs that help define what selected revenue and expenditure sources will contribute to the budget. However, the amounts are presented as percentages of a total ‘pie’ but total revenue and expenditure figures are not provided.

There is a five per cent debt servicing expenditure but we do not know what amount of debt that represents or if it applies to interest only, principal only, old debt, new debt, etc. There is no idea how this fits into an overall economic improvement plan to achieve a balanced budget by 2013/14 and economic growth going forward.

As a minimum there should have been information on how the new $260m will be used in the 2011/12 budget, including what we are doing to accumulate a fund to pay the bond amounts when they become due.

My examination of the above three documents and other available information indicates there is no overall financial plan showing specific interrelated figures for the present fiscal year and beyond.

What is needed is a strategic plan that includes a complete 2011/12 budget and shows how we will achieve a balanced budget by the fiscal year 2013/14 and growth beyond that. The present budget is based on a four per cent to five per cent growth figure that may or may not be applicable to the TCI. It is an ‘off the wall’, generalised figure for the Caribbean. There is no indication that anyone did an analysis to support the use of such a figure in the TCI; it is an unsubstantiated assumption.

That means a critical cornerstone of the 2011/12 budget is a guess; not a well thought out figure. I seriously doubt that the TCI can achieve four per cent economic growth in the

LETTERS SHOULD BE KEPT TO A MAXIMUM OF 450 WORDS

2011/12 fiscal year; I doubt we have reached bottom yet! Our tourist growth has been accomplished by seriously reduced pricing of the product. That cannot be sustained.

The information provided by the TCIG regarding the 2011/12 budget falls far short of what is needed to give the public confidence that this is an integral part of the path to economic recovery.

The budget does not define what our total debt is or how and when we expect to reduce it. The budget mixes loans/debt with revenue and expenses in a way that distorts actual cash flow balances.

Key financial indicators are not defined so it is not possible to efficiently track progress; we will only know of failure after it has happened!

Where is the fiscal accountability and responsibility? What is put in place with this budget to substantially cut expenses going forward?

There is no indication that any planned process is in place to seriously reduce the enormous cost of the civil service by increasing work efficiency and work productivity.

The documents mention a 25 per cent cut in the public service budget allocation by 2013/14.

The fact is, public sector costs have grown 361 per cent between 2002 and 2007 going from $95m to over $314m per year. The TCI total budget is supposed to reduce

public sector costs by 25 per cent or $78.5m by 2013/14. That equates to an ongoing cost for the public sector of $235.5m per year after 2014.

That is way above what the public sector should cost per year for a small country with a population the size of a small village in the developed world. The 25 per cent objective is not a serious attempt to get the TCI on the path to economic stability. What this means is the TCI will face many more years of tax increases and high unemployment for the private sector!

The TCI is in a serious economic mess today because of poor financial management for a number of past years. There is no indication in any of the information available to the public today that the management of this budget will be improved.

The conclusion I have come to after reading the above documents and searching government websites is that, after two years and eight months of effort, there is indication that we are not yet on a path to achieve economic stability by 2013/14.

Other countries including the USA, China, Canada, other Caribbean states etc are all well on their way; economic growth is happening elsewhere. The TCI is still struggling to find a way to stabilise its financial mess.

Meanwhile, the resident

population, the people who consume goods and services and pay taxes are still leaving! Soon we will reach what is called a tipping point; a point of no return where we will be unable to recover – goodbye any hope of return to the good life!

We need a comprehensive, complete budget document and associated tracking plan to measure progress during the fiscal year 2011/12; not a series of documents that are long on words and short on substance.

The 2011/12 budget should be part of a strategic plan that defines what we want the TCI to be in five to 10 years, plus what we need to do to get there.

We need a financial plan that presents a total financial picture for 2011/12; not just an incomplete list of revenues and expenditures. The present Government can create a complete budget plan for 2011/12 but it cannot define the strategic plan. Only the residents of the TCI can do that!

The present leaders of the two political parties have shown they are either not capable of working with us on such a plan or they are not interested in doing so. Let’s truly practice ‘government by the people, for the people’; let’s get together and make it happen!

Fred Skovberg

Draft constitution adds insult to injury Dear Editor, I want to enlighten some of my fellow countrymen about our new final draft constitution which HMG has so graciously prepared on our behalf.

Forget that thousands of Belongers signed petitions, who participated in the first and second rounds of discussions, the All Party talks and the recent national conversation rejecting Kate Sullivan’s recommendations especially when it came to our right to trial by jury in the Supreme Court, our ‘first past the post’ electoral process and the granting of Belongership status.

So she, through the FCO, delivers her final draft going completely against the expressed wishes of our people and producing a constitutional draft that is not of us, for us or by us.

One would almost immediately notice that the protection to a right to a trial by judge and jury has been removed from the fundamental rights and freedoms of the individual.

Under part IV (the legislature), she completely dismantles our electoral process to that of proportional representation where we will see increased confusion considering that each of the electorate would stand to cast as many as 10 votes on election

day (whenever that is).

To add insult to injury, under a section Kate heads ‘miscellaneous’, our precious Belongership status, which we have been so adamant about protecting will be given out to thousands of people from around the globe with no input from the current Belonger population.

Any BOTC citizen (Anguilla, Bermuda, British Arctic Territory, British Indian Ocean, British Virgin Islands, Cayman, Falklands, Gibraltar, Montserrat, Pitcairn, Saint Helena, South Georgia and

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.

continued 

May 7 - 13, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

11

NATIONAL

Letters

Bad math will backfire Dear Editor, A few days ago I was listening to Marvin Gaye’s song ‘What’s Going On’ and as I listened to the lyrics, they began to resonate with me and I was immediately burdened with a similar question, ‘What’s going on in TCI?’ Recently we were voted as being home to the world’s best beaches.

What an awesome title to hold, then we had the visit of the former President, Bill Clinton and Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton and if that is not enough our young men won two gold medals at Carifta.

These would have been major events in other countries with aggressive public relations campaigns; what a missed opportunity! It seems that talks of cutbacks, right-sizing, and introduction of taxes are the only things that dominate the airwaves with great publicity.

Ironically, the country seems to be falling deeper into poverty and what appears like a dead end. Many in our country are wondering if this is a deliberate act on the part of the interim Government.

It is disheartening as I hear the cries of our people who are out of work and are unable to keep food on their table, unable to keep their lights on, unable to pay their mortgages.

However, this does not seem to bother the interim Government; their apparent goal is to increase revenue by any means necessary.

We have thousands of work permit holders that are going to work every day while Turks Islanders sit at home. How do you justify such injustice?

There is also a continuous reminder that our people and the prior administration are the ones who got us into this situation. And while this might be true, Britain must take some responsibility as overseers

of the territory.

At this point, finger pointing is irrelevant. Our focus should be on getting the country back on track with investments.

What this Government is doing would be no different than an employee being hired by an employer to clean up the mess of a prior employee, and the employee is constantly blaming that person for their inability to perform.

Certainly this would not go over well with the employer for an extended timeframe. At some point, one has to accept the responsibility.

It has been stated that the country is open for business, but is it really?

The interim Government has been in charge for over two years and I cannot recall any new investment that has been created during this timeframe that is benefitting Turks Islanders.

We acknowledge that the country is broke and the Government needs to look at ways to increase revenue but the increase in taxes, salary cuts, job losses or cutting back is not the solution to increasing revenue.

This is bad math and will certainly backfire.

In a depressed economy, the aforementioned solutions only yield suffering for grocery stores, all businesses, and the Government alike.

People will have less or no money to spend and investors will be reluctant to come into this kind of climate.

This approach is way too aggressive and more time should have been given to it.

Straudy Lightbourne

Draft constitution ... the Sovereign areas of Akrotiri & Dhekelia), or any British citizen or any other resident who has held a PRC for five years automatically qualifies for Belongership status.

This provision goes completely against our input as many people felt that it should only be granted upon birth or marriage since PRCs give persons freedom to work and travel freely.

I must say that I am not surprised by their version of our constitution. I

do look forward to hearing from persons during the final consultation process (not that it would make a difference under this dictatorship or an interim administration).

Euwonka Selver

Keep our settlements clean Dear Editor, Thank you again for your space. Is it really, really true that we are ‘beautiful by nature’ or ‘dirty by character’?

My country is a tourist haven, they love our country so much. But I wonder what our guests think when they come into our settlements like Five Cays, North Side, The Bight etc and to sit down in our community at our park sites?

I wonder what they think about the Clementina and Fuller Walkin Park in North Side.

My granduncle was my granddaddy’s brother. He also was at the time one who helped to represent us in the struggle for his country.

I want to know who is responsible for keeping our country ‘beautiful by nature’?

There are so many broken glass bottles, soda cans, garbage bags, condoms all over the ground.

My God, what a sight to see! I

look at Grace Bay parks and the children’s park on the Lower Bight so clean and tidy. What about our park in North Side?

Can anything be done to upgrade things in this park?

Why are we just focusing on Grace Bay when we need our park in North Side upgraded?

What if Bill Clinton and Hillary, or Obama and his wife, or a Caribbean leader came to visit the North Side Park; would you or me feel good for them to sit and rest at a site like that?

All over the world the parks are kept clean and are under police watch.

It is not a place for sex, it is for families and visitors to picnic, and weekend outings.

It is for kids to play and not to see them pick up a condom or a sanitary pad that is exposed on the ground.

I don’t know who is responsible

for these park sites, but if this is the way we keep our park in the North Side, I don’t know what their yard looks like.

Our park needs cleaning, painting, planting coconut trees, and putting the swings back in place.

It needs to have a park warden to keep an eye out for these people who drink and don’t put their cans and bottles in the trash can.

More guests will soon arrive, the airport is being lengthened and that means we need to build more hotels and condos.

Let’s do something to attract our guests to our little settlements, and to those that have the beach front areas, for God’s sake, let’s keep it clean so guests can sit down to buy your goods and have a drink and a chat.

God bless us all, Family man Daniel Brisco

COMMENTARY

Financial liability THE FCO has ignored their liability for the TCI debt run up by the PNP under the last three Governors.

Massive price increases by unaddressed monopolies in electrical power and freight handlers, the new health care tax, the new four per cent customs tax, the increased drivers/vehicle licence taxes, the new insurance taxes, the massive gas and departure taxes, the new carbon taxes, the existing 10 per cent phone tax, the new water taxes, the old eight per cent retirement tax, doubled business licence taxes, and the new work permit tax. We are about to, individually and collectively, go broke from taxation.

Our Governor says it’s the legacy of the past administration. True enough but who has kept the same folks in place? Answer, he has!

His bosses refused contingent liability but loans TCI money to pay off the massive bills run up by the PNP. However new deficits have been directly approved by the FCO since August 2009 and before.

By David Tapfer Islanders will now do their best to live on minimums. The old West Indian (and American) goal was build yourself a house and you are set for life. In the USA this no longer works because of fat real estate taxes, something Floyd Hall was planning to impose right here in the TCI. Living on local food, no A/C, using fans. Cutting power usage by turning off the lights. Using the microwave, not the oven.

Using the refrigerator freezer and shutting down the deep freeze. My mother-in-law used wood to cook when her propane ran out. If she was alive she would be using wood every day now.

Fishing, farming and parking the cars. Car pooling is in vogue now.

Take a walk, ride a bike. Motor

scooters get 100 miles per gallon and are fun to drive. Closing down that business which is losing money avoids fat licence fees. Contractors can downgrade their licence because there will not be any work anyway with high taxes destroying inward investment.

Who will invest in the TCI which has taxes and regulations higher than other tropical places?

The fishermen are already back on the sea; will they pay taxes on their catch? No way!

We fully expect the expat labour force from DR and Haiti to join their underground countrymen avoiding fat work permit fees. All this will soon take effect and the new taxes will produce less not more government income!

Our new Governor will have to blame his higher deficits on both the PNP and this Governor who continues to use PNP middle management.

It is no longer contingent liability, it is direct liability. I’ll wager this will be the political call of 2012.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 7 - 13, 2011

NATIONAL

Animal clinic a success in North NORTH Caicos animal lovers turned out in their droves to get their dogs vaccinated against killer diseases during a special TCSPCA clinic.

Charity volunteers spent three days on the island to enable pet owners to protect their pooches.

They also took the opportunity to have them spayed and neutered in a bid to reduce the spiralling number of feral animals.

TCSPCA volunteer vet Dr Rich Sefcik and executive director Susan Blehr organised the visit in response to Islanders’ appeals for help in controlling the dog population.

A spokeswoman said: “Many of the island’s pet owners wanted their female dogs to receive surgery before they had a first litter of puppies. They also are aware of the importance of making sure that male dogs are neutered as well.”

It was the first spay/neuter clinic held in North Caicos. Residents were particularly grateful for the help as there is no permanent veterinary service on the island. Pet owners must fork out to take their animals by private boat or ferry to Provo.

The spokeswoman continued: “The numbers of stray/feral dogs on North Caicos has become out of control and many residents are subjected to dogs fighting and breeding all night long.”

Fifteen female and six male dogs, most just a few months old, were sterilised. This is estimated

Lucky bartender Andrew Moss scooped a hoard of luxury gifts.

The spay/neuter clinic is estimated to prevent the birth of around 100 unwanted puppies in North Caicos this year alone.

to prevent the birth of around 100 unwanted puppies in North Caicos this year alone.

Assisting Dr Rich with the surgeries was Stephanie Human, a qualified vet nurse and the newly elected chairman of the Grand Turk chapter of the TCSPCA, together with volunteer clinical assistant Ibis Van Walleghem.

“The success of this first TCSPCA outreach programme on North Caicos would not have been possible without the help and support of many people.

“Lou Handfield for barging the TCSPCA animal bus from Provo to

North; Heather and Lovey Forbes from the Potcake Foundation for assisting with publicity and transporting animals to the clinic; Jody and Tom Rathgeb for the use of their house where the TCSPCA team stayed and lower level garage where the clinic was set up; Mark McLean who provided transportation and LynnRae McLean for making delicious meals for the team and dog biscuits for every dog that had surgery,” the spokeswoman added.

Thanks also went out to Brenda and Ralph Wilcke for providing meals and PTV8 for local media support.

Save lives by acting fast ARE you at risk of having a stroke?

Would you know if someone else was having one and what to do if they were?

If you’re unsure of the answers to these questions then a campaign launched by InterHealth Canada is for you.

May is US National Stroke Awareness Month and so hospital staff are reminding Islanders about risk factors, symptoms and preventative measures.

In particular, they are placing emphasis on making the public aware of ‘FAST’.

FAST is an acronym for things to check in a suspected stroke victim and doctors are urging the public to make note of the following: F – Face. Does the face droop on one side when the person smiles?

A – Arm. After raising both arms, does one of the arms drift downwards?

S – Speech. After repeating a simple phrase, does the person’s speech sound slurred or strange?

T – Time. If any or all of the above are observed call 911 or 999 and ask for medical assistance.

Doctor Elinore Zaguirre, who is based at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, explained: “FAST is an acronym that people of all ages

Doctor Elinore Zaguirre says it is vital to know how to recognise and respond to stroke signs and symptoms.

should be very aware of. Simply remembering it can help save lives.

“It’s something we are continually promoting but National Stroke Awareness Month gives us the perfect opportunity to reiterate a message that should be as familiar to people as their telephone number and ATM pin.”

Dr Zaguirre said that research by the US National Stroke Association reveals that up to 80 per cent of strokes in our region are avoidable.

“Although strokes can happen to anyone, certain risk factors can increase chances of a stroke,” she

explained.

“However, studies show that up to 80 per cent of strokes can be prevented by working with a healthcare professional to reduce personal risk.

“It is important to manage personal risk and know how to recognise and respond to stroke signs and symptoms.”

InterHealth has issued stroke prevention guidelines, which will help people lower their risk of a first stroke.

These include knowing your blood pressure (hypertension); identifying atrial fibrillation; stopping smoking; controlling alcohol use; knowing your cholesterol levels; controlling diabetes; managing your exercise and diet; treating circulation problems; and being aware of a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA).

Dr Zaguirre added: “Knowing, controlling and managing the things detailed in the guidelines will certainly help reduce your risk of a stroke. It is also extremely important to take any medications as prescribed.

“If you are worried about your risk factors or require further information, make an appointment to see your doctor or seek advice from your pharmacist or any other medical professional.”

Wine bar proves lucky for Andrew A FEW drinks at a Provo nightspot proved a winner for one lucky Islander who scooped a jaw-dropping cache of prizes in an Easter giveaway.

Andrew Moss netted more than $2,000 worth of luxury gifts when his name was drawn in the Regent Village Easter Giveaway.

Over 400 people were entered into the draw after spending $50 or more at participating outlets in the Grace Bay commercial centre.

Andrew, head bartender at the Gansevoort resort, spent his $50 at Vino Tiempo.

He is celebrating bagging a twonight stay at the Regent Grand, artwork from Making Waves, gift cards from Philosophy and Art Provo, FOTTAC’s Bambarra rum goodies, Rock It Hot fitness classes, Island Sportique’s soccer goodies, a

snorkel tour from Where When How and a fragrance basket from Jai’s.

The winning ticket was drawn at the first annual Regent Village Easter Family Fun Day and Giveaway on April 23, attended by hundreds of Islanders and visitors.

Families took part in egg and spoon races, Easter egg hunts, face painting and enjoyed live music from David Bowen’s Arrow Trio.

A Regent Village spokeswoman said: “This was not just a great day of fun and shopping for all the family, but it encouraged locals and visitors into the Regent Village to see the diversity of shops, food and entertainment available to them.

“The Regent Village will continue to promote itself as ‘the heart of Provo’, the place to shop, dine and entertain.”

Win $150 office supplies A PROVIDENCIALES office goods shop is offering four customers the chance to win $150 in merchandise this May – just by making a purchase.

J and D Office Supplies recently opened up a third location in popular tourist spot Grace Bay. Co-owner Joanna Seymour said she is very excited to be in the area where a number of other businesses have moved.

“Despite the economic condition in the TCI, God has given us a vision and we know that this new location will be a success.”

“We strive to do our best to ensure we provide our customers with great value and service,” she said.

J and D Office Supplies opened its first location on the Airport Road in 2001 and then later established a second location in Bottle Creek, North Caicos.

It not only has a new location but also a new logo and tagline ‘Better Services, Lower Prices’.

Co-owner Drexwell Seymour

said that he was delighted by the “milestone” changes.

He added that he was glad to bring his business closer to customers and is also looking forward to new opportunities.

The owners are proud to offer the National Trust an area in the new shop to sell their merchandise.

Ethlyn Gibbs-Williams, of the National Trust, said that she was very grateful to J and D Office Supplies and added that tourists and residents will have greater access to some of the locally made products.

The store offers a selection of office supplies, computer supplies, school supplies and furniture, and also provides copying, printing and internet services.

It is open from 8.30am to 5pm Mondays to Fridays and 9am to 1pm on Saturdays.

Anyone that needs any additional information can reach the Grace Bay store on 946-5367 or the Airport Road location on 941-5367.

May 7 - 13, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

13

NATIONAL

Discover nature’s beauty online

By Rebecca Bird NATURE lovers can access hundreds of stunning new images and videos of TCI’s unique wildlife, thanks to the hard work of a British conservation charity.

Passionate experts at Wildscreen have put together a high-tech biodiversity profiling website called ‘ARKive’ (www.arkive.org).

The site contains a comprehensive digital library of animal, plant and fungi species found across the globe – each with breathtaking photographs and film clips.

This unique audio-visual record of life prioritises those species at most risk of extinction.

Helen Shrimpton, of Wildscreen, explained: “ARKive is an awardwinning online educational resource which draws together the very best films and photos of the world’s amazing species.

“The project brings scientific names to life by combining stunning imagery with informative, easy to understand ‘fact-files’ of more than 12,000 species.

“Visitors can learn why a species is threatened, what conservation action is being carried out to help it and how they can get involved.”

The Wildscreen charity works globally to promote an appreciation of biodiversity and nature through the power of wildlife imagery.

With support from Defra and the Overseas Territories Environment Programme (OTEP) – a joint programme of the Department for International Development and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office - Wildscreen has been profiling the rich and unique species found in the UK overseas territories (UKOTs).

Through the funding Wildscreen has created more than 220 brand new

While the tricoloured heron has a large, stable global population, it is threatened in parts of its range by disturbance, habitat loss and pollution

A reef-building species that forms massive spherical colonies, the symmetrical brain coral often develops the very foundation of coral reefs in the tropical western Atlantic

Loggerhead turtle, one of the most widespread of all the marine turtles and also the most highly migratory, with individuals known to cross the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans

ARKive species profiles for animals and plants found within the UKOTs. And the exciting project has seen thousands of new images and film clips banked in the media vault.

Turks and Caicos is currently listed as having 181 species including the Bahamas rock iguana, the loggerhead turtle, and queen triggerfish.

ARKive has been working with media donors based in the UKOTs to source imagery, as well as with some of the world’s best wildlife photographers and filmmakers.

The site also gives detailed descriptions of each species including information on status, range, habitat, biology and threats.

Multimedia species profiles are free for non-commercial, awarenessraising and educational purposes.

Conservationists, educators, NGOs, community groups and governments working within the territories are encouraged to use ARKive resources to help raise awareness of the wealth of biodiversity.

As part of the project, three new teaching resources have also been created for use in local schools.

The resources use species from the UKOTs as case studies, highlighting the threats they face and the in-situ conservation initiatives established to protect them.

Covering key science topics such as biodiversity and conservation, the resources have been designed to highlight the importance of the territories’ biodiversity to young people.

These new teaching aids add to a suite of educational resources and games already on ARKive, which are used by teachers from across the globe.

To learn about featured species found on or around the Turks and Caicos Islands visit www.arkive.org/ countries/turks_and_caicos_islands/ ARKive is constantly looking to update their list of species with new photographs, videos and information.

history, effective awareness raising and education programmes are ever more vital.

“Powerful wildlife imagery is an emotive and effective means of building environmental awareness

To get involved visit www.arkive. org or email arkive@wildscreen.org. uk The website states: “With species extinction now occurring at a faster rate than at any time in Earth’s

The queen triggerfish inhabits coral reefs and nearby sandy and rubble areas, from shallow waters down to depths of 50 metres

Bahamas rock iguana, also known as the Turks and Caicos ground iguana or Turks and Caicos iguana

and engagement, and quick and easy access to this imagery is essential in the digital mass communications society we live in today.”

14

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 7 - 13, 2011

NATIONAL

Tourism experts discuss growth TCI’s leading tourism officials gathered at a meeting of business professionals this week to talk about the industry’s future.

Marketing, service standards, education, and attitude were all hot topics during the monthly Chamber of Commerce gathering.

Among the panellists who spoke at the Regent Palms on Monday evening was Beverly Howell, director of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA).

She told attendees to market their businesses and network with people in the tourism sector.

To do that they should take advantage of their membership in the TCHTA and provide quality service to tourists, she said.

The general manager of Point Grace Resort continued that potential employees must realise that a tertiary degree does not guarantee employment and does not take the place of good performance.

They must be wiling to “go through the ropes” and put away feelings of entitlement if they want to move up in the sector, she said.

Ms Howell added that she would like to see more Turks and Caicos Islanders in the industry and intends to take part in a programme for primary school students to raise their awareness of possible careers.

Ethlyn Gibbs-Williams, executive

CAPAA C o r n e r

In 1994 the Turks and Caicos Islands Human Rights Commission signed onto The Convention of the Rights of the Child.

There are fifty four (54) Articles in this Document.

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

Article 9 1. States parties shall ensure that a child shall not be separated from his or her parents against their will, except when competent authorities subject to judicial review determine, in accordance with applicable law and procedures, that such separation is necessary for the best interests of the child. Such determination may be necessary in a particular case such as one involving abuse or neglect of the child by the parents, or one where the parents are living separately and a decision must be made as to the child’s place of residence.

director of the Turks and Caicos Islands National Trust, was the next to speak on the topic of cultural heritage tourism.

She discussed her passion for the preservation of TCI’s cultural heritage and natural environment.

The Trust’s future plans include heritage fields at Bird Rock Point, a nursery dedicated to native plants and the teaching of herbal remedies in schools.

Ms Gibbs-Williams explained that National Trust development initiatives centred on eco-tourism and conservation of heritage sites are important to TCI’s tourism industry.

This is because the country’s authenticity and natural beauty is why tourists love to visit, she said.

The Tourist Board has signed an agreement with the National Trust promising to provide a portion of its budget for Trust projects.

Next to take the stand was Karen Whitt, president of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA).

She said that the first quarter for 2011 had been a good one and that work done to bring in new airlines had changed the tourism industry.

Ms Whitt pointed out that most repeat visitors have ventured out to have a local experience.

The general manager of the Regent Palms Resort spoke of the Jamaica host programme by former

vice president Alan Hutchinson which encourages visitors to go into homes to experience culture first hand.

Finally Ralph Higgs, director of the Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board, talked to attendees about debt.

He said that the Tourist Board paid off all of its debt which amounted to $10m and there are no lawsuits pending.

The board has also taken a targeted, focused and strategic approach to marketing the destination, he revealed.

They are also working closely with travel partners and wholesalers and will be coordinating more press trips to the TCI to promote the Islands.

Mr Higgs stated that the TCI has preferred destination status with the Chinese Government and promotions will begin after there are direct flights from China to a Caribbean hub.

The South American market is also being sought after, particularly Brazil, as the TCI is well known among affluent Brazilians.

Locally, billboards will be erected in the Grace Bay area and the airport baggage claim area to advertise Provo’s sister islands.

The meeting finished with a comprehensive question and answer session aimed at the panel of experts.

Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Association Your source for information on the rights and protection of children 2. In any proceedings pursuant to paragraph 1 of the present article, all interested parties shall be given an opportunity to participate in the proceedings and make their views known.

3. States parties shall respect the right of the child who is separated from one or both parents to maintain personal relations and direct contact with both parents on a regular basis, except if it is contrary to the child’s best interests.

4. Where such separation results from any action initiated by a State party, such as the detention, imprisonment, exile, deportation or death (including death arising from any cause while the person is in the custody of the State) of one or both parents or of the child, that State party shall, upon request, provide the parents, the child or, if appropriate, another member of the family with the essential information concerning the

whereabouts of the absent member(s) of the family unless the provision of the information would be detrimental to the well-being of the child. States parties shall further ensure that the submission of such a request shall of itself entail no adverse consequences for the person(s) concerned.

CAPAA Comment

The State has to ensure that children are not separated from their parents.

However, the state must remove the child if authorities and the courts deem it in the child’s best interest if the child is found to be abused or neglected within their home.

CAPAA recognises the importance of children being brought up in clean, safe, loving and nurturing homes with their parents.

Any questions please call National Youth Hotline @ 1800-5348256

Art Forbes, president of the Rotary Club of Providenciales, gave the ladies their winning cheques

Big win for bingo buffs TWO bingo fans were over the moon to win more than $3,000 each on Sunday at the Rotary Club’s weekly game.

Paula Henry and Lorraine Robinson both walked away with $3,390 after hitting the jackpot at the Cactus Bar and Grill in The Bight.

Art Forbes, president of the Rotary Club of Providenciales, presented the ladies with their winning cheques.

He said: “Bingo is one of our club’s ultimate entertainment experiences and in these tough economic times I am delighted to be able to hand out the jackpot earnings to not just one but two players.”

The club has been operating a weekly bingo game since September

2002 as a way to foster a relationship with the community and give something back for their financial support.

Mr Forbes said: “The Rotary Club of Providenciales benefits from a loyal following of supporters who have stayed with us through the many venue changes before coming home to the Cactus Bar and Grill in The Bight.”

The new bingo season, which is expected to resume in two weeks, promises to be even more exciting.

Additional prizes include a 16in pizza for the winner of the first cash payout at the Hey Jose Bar and Restaurant located at the Courtyard, Neptune Plaza in Grace Bay.

Youngsters were delighted by the medics’ visit

“What’s the pay like Doc?” YOUNGSTERS at Provo Primary cut straight to the chase when a pair of newly-qualified doctors visited their school in Flamingo Park.

Bella Stewart and Alex DudleyCoake spent a month working with InterHealth Canada at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre after graduating from medical school in England.

As part of their work experience, they went into the community to explain to pupils what it takes to become a doctor.

And despite being bombarded by a range of questions, there was one enquiry that proved more popular than most.

Bella explained: “We had a wonderful time at Provo Primary and it was the highlight of our visit to TCI. “And the kids there are already thinking about their futures because the question we were most asked was ‘how much do doctors get paid’.”

During their visit, Dr Stewart and Dr Dudley-Coake showed students how to tie bandages, check pulses and recognise when an illness or injury requires emergency treatment.

They also demonstrated various gadgets and equipment, including stethoscopes, reflex hammers and ear torches.

“We spent time with children of all ages and they were a pleasure to work with,” added Alex.

“We would like to say a big thank you to Provo Primary School and to InterHealth Canada too.”

One young lady particularly fascinated by the visit was fiveyear-old Dominga Robolledo, who recently broke her arm in a fall.

“I know a lot about hospitals and doctors after breaking my arm,” said Dominga, “and it was good to meet the new doctors and tell them about what happened to me.”

May 7 - 13, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS NATIONAL

High hopes for derby horse

By Rebecca Bird DEAN and Patti Reeves never imagined that their love for all things equestrian would amount to anything big.

But to their surprise and joy, their chestnut colt ‘Mucho Macho Man’ is one of the favourites to win the famous Kentucky Derby this weekend.

The story of their success began in February 2007 when Atlanta-born Dean and his wife Patti were at their parttime home, the Turks and Caicos Islands.

While working out at the gym in the Regent Palms Resort, Patti met a woman called Esther Ades.

“She had these beautiful diamond-stud earrings,” Patti told Fox Sports. “She said she had gotten them for her 50th wedding anniversary and they were the first she’d ever owned.

“She’d gotten married young and never got her ears pierced until then. It was such an endearing story that I felt an instant friendship.”

Esther’s husband Bob had been in horse racing and had gone to the winner’s circle 56 times.

The couple invited their new friends out on their boat to take a trip around the islands, and Dean and Bob struck an informal deal to split a thoroughbred racehorse.

Just two months later the two men bought a two-yearold colt named Fearless in a sale in Lexington, Kentucky.

Dean, president of a contracting company that builds water and sewer systems, jumped in quickly; he bought two more two-yearolds in 2008.

He needed a trainer and a former jockey recommended

Tim and Kathy Ritvo - it was Tim who found Mucho Macho Man without realising it.

“Tim called and wanted me to watch a race on the internet,” Dean said, “a horse called Gourmet Dinner had won and the owner wanted to sell half of him.

“It was a good race but when Tim called back I said: ‘Call me crazy, but I like the horse that finished second’.

That was Mucho.”

The training went well until September 2010, when Tim Ritvo was offered a vice president’s job at Gulfstream Park and Laurel Park.

Dean had a decision.

Experts suggested they move Mucho to another farm, but Dean and Patti wanted to stay with Kathy Ritvo.

Not only had a woman trainer never won the Kentucky Derby, but Kathy was less than a year removed from heart transplant surgery.

“I felt like Kathy was a good horsewoman and trainer,” Dean said, “we also felt like God’s hand was in this whole thing.”

Mucho Macho Man’s primary jockey was Eibar Coa, who had ridden him to a third-place finish at Calder, a second at Saratoga and a win at Monmouth Park.

But before the team left for Louisiana for the Risen Star Stakes at Fair Grounds last month Coa was arrested following a domestic dispute.

The owners felt they should change jockeys but a sermon from their pastor Andy Stanley changed their thinking.

“Andy’s sermon was on erring on the side of grace,” Patti said, “we walked out of there and I said to Dean: ‘I thought about Eibar that entire sermon. It’s like it was meant

Chestnut colt ‘Mucho Macho Man’ is one of the favourites to win the famous Kentucky Derby

for us’.”

Dean agreed but unfortunately Coa never got the opportunity to make good on that second chance.

The Friday that the Reeves flew Macho to New Orleans he was in an accident during a race at Gulfstream Park.

He broke his wrist, a rib, and the C-4 vertebra. He had no feeling or movement from the chest down.

With a replacement jockey, Rajiv Maragh, Mucho Macho Man won the $300,000 Risen Star and virtually assured his spot in the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on Saturday, May 7.

The Derby field is limited to just 20 horses, determined by graded stakes earnings, and Mucho Macho Man ranks seventh.

Dean Reeves has rented 30 hotel rooms in Louisville, Kentucky, and has a big party planned at Taylor Made Farms for this Thursday night.

Patti tried to hire the Village People to play ‘Macho Macho Man’ but it was not to be. ”We’ll be playing that song on the bus, though, for sure,” she told Fox Sports.

Neither Dean nor Patti will speculate on the outcome of the Derby, they simply say the outcome doesn’t matter, the journey was victory enough.

15

16

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Lifestyle...

May 7 - 13, 2011

fitness Tip 

Skip rope, not your workout WHAT piece of exercise equipment sells for just a few dollars, fits into a handbag, can be used by the whole family, and improves cardiovascular fitness while toning muscle at the

Quinoa and black beans

CONSIDERED the ‘gold of the Incas’, the grain quinoa is high in protein and iron and an excellent source of many other nutrients.

It has a fluffy, creamy, slightly crunchy texture and a delicious nutty flavour when cooked. Try this healthy recipe for a modern alternative to beans and rice.

Ingredients: • 1 tsp vegetable oil • 1 onion, chopped • 3 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped • Three-quarter cup uncooked quinoa • 1.5 cups vegetable broth • 1 tsp ground cumin • Quarter tsp cayenne pepper • salt and pepper to taste • 1 cup frozen corn kernels • 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained • Half cup chopped fresh cilantro Method: • Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Stir in the onion and garlic, and sauté until lightly browned.

• Mix quinoa into the saucepan and cover with vegetable broth. Season with cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes.

• Stir frozen corn into the saucepan, and continue to simmer for about five minutes until heated through. Mix in the black beans and cilantro.

same time? And using it for just 15 to 20 minutes will burn off the calories from a candy bar?

The answer: a jump rope.

Jumping rope is a great calorieburner. You’d have to run an eightminute mile to work off more calories than you’d burn jumping rope.

It’s also great for the heart, strengthens the upper and lower body and adds spice to an exercise routine.

Jumping can put stress on the knees, ankles, and hips but if done properly it’s a lower-impact activity than jogging.

Check with your doctor if you have any doubts about your ability to withstand the impact and high aerobic intensity of rope-jumping.

As with all exercise, warming up, stretching and cooling down are essential.

For novices, a beaded rope is recommended because it holds its shape and is easier to control than a lightweight cloth or vinyl rope.

Adjust the rope by holding the handles and stepping on the rope.

Shorten the rope so the handles reach your armpits. Wear properly fitted athletic shoes, preferably crosstraining shoes.

You’ll need a four-by-six-foot area to jump in and about 10 inches of space above your head. The exercise surface is very important.

Do not attempt to jump on carpet, grass, concrete, or asphalt.

While carpet reduces impact, the downside is it grabs your shoes and can twist your ankle or knee. Use a wood floor, piece of plywood, or an impact mat made for exercise.

If you want to jump with style and variety, try these techniques:

 One-foot jumping. With each jump, hop on one foot and kick the other foot in front of you.

Then alternate from foot to foot. The kicking foot should be raised just a

Jumping rope is a super cardiovascular workout.

few inches off the floor; you’re not looking for dramatic movement here.  Weight-shifting. You’ll feel like a boxer-in-training with this one.

With each jump, shift your weight lightly to one side. Then alternate

from side to side. Keep your body low and your knees bent slightly.  Alternate jumping with lower intensity exercise, such as marching, and you’ll be able to jump for longer periods.

health Tip 

Iron – an essential nutrient THIS week we will concentrate on the benefits of iron and the problems of deficiencies.

Iron is an important mineral that performs a number of functions.

Several food items contain the iron necessary to maintain adequate levels of iron in the body.

Significant health problems can result from getting too little or too much iron in one’s diet.

The main function of iron is to carry oxygen in hemoglobin, a substance found in red blood cells.

Hemoglobin transports oxygen to the rest of the body’s cells.

Iron is also found in myoglobin, a muscle protein. Myoglobin takes oxygen from hemoglobin and lets oxygen diffuse throughout muscle cells.

Vegetarians and vegans need to be acutely aware of the amount of iron in their diet. Because nonanimal based sources of iron are not absorbed as well as animal-based iron sources, vegetarians need to

By Phillip Simmons consume twice the amount of iron as meat-eaters.

Iron helps make collagen, a connective tissue that joins body tissues together. It also protects the body from infections.

Iron is responsible too for making proteins called amino acids.

When iron levels become severely depleted in the body a condition called anemia may result. The symptoms of anemia include fatigue, general weakness, headaches, and enhanced sensitivity to cold temperatures.

Having too much iron in the body can also be a problem. Excessive iron may result in a condition called hemochromatosis.

Quinoa, believed by the Incas to be sacred, is an excellent source of iron and many other nutrients.

This can lead to diabetes, liver disease and skin discolouration.

Foods rich in iron include red meat, fish, poultry, goat cheese, soy milk, and pumpkin. Dark green leafy vegetables, quinoa, legumes, eggs and dried beans are also good sources of iron.

Fruits which have a good amount of this essential nutrient include avocado, blackberries,

blackcurrants, boysenberries, breadfruit, cherries, dates, figs, grapes, lemons, loganberries, lychees, mulberries, passion fruit, persimmon, pomegranate, raspberries, strawberries, and watermelon.

Most nuts contain a small amount of iron. Eating iron along with a source of vitamin C helps the body to absorb it better.

May 7 - 13, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

17

Lifestyle...

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

GARDENING 

Money Tip

Tropical almond tree How to get out of debt THIS tree thrives as an ornamental tree in many tropical cities in the world. The tropical almond tree – terminalia catappa – is like a beautiful natural parasol and originates from India.

The charmingly colourful tropical almond can reach up to 90 feet in height with a three-foot trunk diameter.

During its first years, the tree grows approximately three feet per year. The branches grow at regular distances at a 90 degree angle from the straight trunk.

The tree usually sheds all its leaves twice a year with obviate leaves that turn pink red to red yellow before falling.

The lower branches form an even roof under the tree top. The big leaves are not only used for protection from the tropical sun but also as wrapping and conservation paper.

The wood is utilised to manufacture furniture, canoes and drums.

The tree usually starts blooming and bearing fruit just three years after planting. The tiny white flowers are arranged in long axillary spikes.

The greenish-white female and male flowers are on the same tree; these flowers are inconspicuous and not very showy.

The fruits of the tropical almond are delicious and can be eaten straight from the tree.

Both the fruit flesh and nut are edible. The nuts are also very tasty when dried or smoked and are used in the Philippines to make wine.

The leaves and fruit of the tropical almond are important ingredients of traditional medicine.

The leaves are in great demand globally for medicinal use. Tea can be made from the bark and leaves to treat diarrhoea and from the young leaves to relieve headaches and heal oral infections.

The leaves can also be warmed in order to apply to muscles or joints to relieve pain and the ripened fruit is said to help alleviate travel sickness.

The kernel of the Indian almond is believed to be an aphrodisiac and is also thought to be useful in the treatment of some forms of sexual inadequacies.

Plant in full sun, well drained soil and average water. It’s a fast grower and is salt and drought tolerant.

Propagate by seed. The birds love the ripe fruit.

NATURE SPLENDOR

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

IF YOUR finances are in a mess, now is the time to take control.

Here’s a seven-step guide to getting back into the black.

The tropical almond bears delicious fruit which can be eaten directly from the tree.

Step one: Work it out Sit down and work out exactly how much you owe and who you owe it to. Be honest or you’ll only store up more problems for the future. If your debt repayments take more than 20 per cent of your net monthly income you are entering a danger zone and must take steps to cut back.

Step two: Budget Once you know how much you owe you can draw up a budget, including a schedule for repaying your debts. Be realistic and work out what you can afford to repay and still stay within your budget.

Step three: Be disciplined Don’t borrow any more money or take on any more debts until you have repaid what you already owe.

Whiter than white

GET your whites brilliant by soaking them in a solution of water and lemon juice and then hanging them in the sunshine.

Natural light and citrus juice will combine to give a gentle bleaching effect.

That way you won’t have to run energy-hungry hot washes to get your whites really dazzling.

Step four: Watch your daily spending Take a set amount of money out of the bank at the beginning of the week and give your card to a friend or family member for selfkeeping. That way you cannot spend more than you have in cash.

Step five: Organise your bills Make sure you are paying all your utility bills by direct debit.

It’s much easier to manage as

you won’t have to worry about sending cheques or paying in cash on time.

Step six: Switch to a cheaper credit card/ loan Try different providers and you’ll probably be able to find a credit card or loan with a better rate than you’re paying now - particularly for transferred balances on cards (watch out for balance transfer fees).

But remember that these special offer rates will rise considerably after an initial interest-free period - make a note in your diary to change deals again. It’s best to go for a low rate that looks stable rather than 0 per cent for a limited period, unless you’re happy to switch again in six months.

Step seven: Switch your mortgage The mortgage is probably your biggest expense each month, so it’s important to ensure you have the best possible deal. Speak to an independent financial adviser or a broker about your remortgaging options and if it looks like you could save money make the switch.

Remember to take into account any transfer charges from your current provider and any legal fees for switching. Weigh up the all-in cost of remortgaging before you decide if it’s worthwhile; you may still find that the savings you’ll make with a new mortgage will more than cover any transfer expenses.

18

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 7 - 13, 2011

“Bahamas in danger of losing B+ rating” PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party (PLP) MP Alfred Sears earlier this week expressed serious concerns over the country’s deteriorating fiscal situation and warned that The Bahamas is in danger of losing its triple B+ credit rating.

Mr. Sears said The Bahamas’ fiscal affairs are deteriorating and there is no plan to grow the economy.

“This may be our last chance to borrow money where we have a [triple] B+ rating. We know we don’t have an A+ rating anymore, so it means that money is more expensive today than it would have been three years ago,” he said.

“Clearly, given the trend in the country because we are not expanding the productive sectors of our economy, we stayed [with] the same tourism and financial services, [which] means it’s very likely that our rating will drop and borrowing money will be that more expensive.”

Mr. Sears, who was a guest on

the Love 97 talk show, Jones & Company, noted that when the Christie administration was in office four years ago, the largest allocation in the budget was for education and then health.

“Today, the largest allocation of the budget is debt servicing and that is just a shift within the past four years,” he said.

Earlier this year, noted tax attorney and PLP MP for Elizabeth Ryan Pinder pointed out that a contributing factor to the “uncontrollable deterioration in our fiscal affairs” was failed budget projections, failed taxing strategies and failed revenue generators.

“The PLP Parliamentary Caucus in its communications on the budget for this fiscal year, made note on the inaccuracies of the budget projections of this FNM Government. Specifically, in my Budget Communication I made note that this government has had a trend

of inaccurate budget projections– underestimating expenditures and overestimating revenue,” he told parliamentarians in the House of Assembly at the time.

“The FNM Government, in the current fiscal year, forecasted that expenditures would remain at the same level from one year to the next, and that they will increase revenues by an astonishing $197,000,000. This is despite [the fact that] The Bahamas over the last decade, even in the best of times, never achieved this growth in revenues. They were going to do this by increasing taxes on the Bahamian public – the notorious tax and pain budget.”

At the time, Mr. Pinder also noted that the government’s overall deficit position widened over the first quarter of the 2010/11 fiscal year, as the increase in spending overshadowed the modest improvement in revenues.

He was citing a Central Bank of The

Bahamas’ report.

Mr. Sears, who is the MP for the Fort Charlotte constituency, said both sides of the political divide need to begin focusing on a vision for the country.

He said the time has come for a national development strategy and said there ought to be certain broad objectives that both sides can agree on.

“We need to redefine the national project and see how to develop a national plan with clear targets that will give people a sense of optimism so that they can think there are opportunities there for them to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams,” he said.

“The kind of limitation that many people felt in the 60s I’m finding that people are feeling the same kind of restraint and the kind of hope and optimism that we had in the early years of independence a lot of that hope is gone. It’s evaporated.”

Lianne Burns, who is believed to have been strangled at her home on the Caribbean island of Saint Martin (telegraph.co.uk)

British expat murdered in Saint Martin THE BODY of Lianne Burns, better known as Lee, was found at her home on the Caribbean island of Saint Martin on Thursday last week.

The 43-year-old, who was born in North London but brought up in Essex, had moved to the island 12 years ago, where she worked as an operations manager for a local tour company. She visited Essex at least once a year to catch up with family and friends.

Preliminary investigations suggest that she was strangled.

According to a statement issued by the local police, a man was arrested shortly after the body was discovered, and is now being held in custody.

Dominicans cannot take on Haiti’s poverty, Fernandez says “AS GENEROUS as Dominican Republic wants to be, it cannot assume Haiti’s poverty, because it would fall to the same situation,” was president Leonel Fernandez’s argument against those who oppose the repatriation of Haitians who cross the border to his country fleeing their nation’s misery.

Interviewed by AFP during an Economic Forum in Rio de Janeiro last week, the Dominican chief executive also noted “national sovereignty” and similar practices in other nations to justify the repatriations. “Every day Dominicans are repatriated from Puerto Rico and the United States.”

He said it’s a phenomenon that occurs on a planetary scale and noted the construction of a wall along the Mexican-U.S. border. “Illegal massive migration is untenable for any country. Repatriation is a topic that is carried out in different parts of the world every day. Dominican Republic is obliged to carry out attributes of national sovereignty as it occurs everywhere.”

May 7 - 13, 2011

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Caribbean ripe with investment potential says top investor – Cites TCI “THE CARIBBEAN is, now more than ever, a unique investment opportunity!”

That’s the assessment of one top investor, who insists he lives and breathes the Caribbean. David Brillembourg, founder, chairman and chief executive officer of private equity real estate firm, The Brilla Group, is adamant that the region is ripe for investment.

Brillembourg will bring this outlook to the 2011 Invest Caribbean Power Breakfast, presented by Hard Beat Communications and The Caribbean Tourism Organisation, in collaboration with the Caribbean American Chamber of Industry & Commerce, and set for June 9, 2011 from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City.

Brillembourg is among the top speakers, who include Vice President at Goldman Sachs, W. Dave Dowrich and top Caribbean ministers of government, investors and entrepreneurs.

Brilla’s investments are focused primarily on luxury beachfront hotels and resorts in the Caribbean even as foreign direct investment in the Caribbean and Latin American region grew strongly last year, jumping fromUS$5.5 billion in the first semester of 2009 to US$20.8 billion in the same period of 2010 according to The

Economic Commission for Latin America (ECLAC).

China’s Ministry of Commerce alone reported that foreign direct investment in Caribbean countries

by Chinese firms totalled nearly $7 billion in 2009, a more than 300 percent increase from the 2004 foreign direct investment of $1.7 billion.

Brillembourg sees the opportunity.

“The Caribbean is a unique and long-lasting investment,” he added, insisting that anyone serious about investment should get on board.

He reiterated that the region looks solid throughout with lots of opportunities out there.

“For example, Turks and Caicos is coming out of the crisis well. But there is more than one location to look out for; all are maturing and diversifying. This is a wonderful time to be in the Caribbean,” said says the seasoned entrepreneur with more than 20 years of experience in investing also in South Florida, Mexico, Central America and Colombia. “As a result of the global financial crisis and dislocation of real estate markets, the hotel sector was seriously affected due to the lack of funds and financing available for this sector. This macroeconomic situation caused the expected supply for new luxury coastal properties in the Caribbean.” (prnewswire)

Poverty levels worry Opposition in Jamaica DR OMAR DAVIES, the opposition spokesman on finance in Jamaica, has called on the Government to explain the non-publication of the annual Survey of Living Conditions.

“The non-publication of the Survey of Living Conditions implies, at the same time, not only our inability to have a structured discussion on the matter, but also raises questions as to whether the Government itself is thinking about the issues,” he said.

Davies chided Finance Minister Audley Shaw for failing to mention the country’s rising poverty levels when he opened the Budget Debate last Thursday.

“That this did not deserve a sentence in the minister’s presentation is indeed instructive,” he said.

Davies noted that it was not the first time that the Survey of Living Conditions had not been published on time.

“It should be recalled that it was only after I posed questions in this Honourable House that the prime

minister produced the document on the Survey of Living Conditions for 2008, and summary information on the Survey of Living Conditions for 2009. I do not know if the actual Survey of Living Conditions document for 2009 has been published. I have not seen it,” Davies said.

According to him, the information was provided in the case of the 2008 data nearly 18 months after the time it should have been available.

“The data, when provided, confirmed what everyone at all levels realised. It indicated that the level of poverty, which had dropped to 9.6 per cent in 2007, had jumped first to 12.2 per cent in 2008 and then to 16.5 per cent in 2009. Simply translated, it meant that from a ratio of one in 10 being below the poverty line, in two years, this had deteriorated to one in six below the poverty line,” Davies said.

He pointed to the Planning Institute of Jamaica, which in a publication placed current poverty levels at between 18 per cent and 20 per cent. (Jamaicagleaner)

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Regional countries urged to drop libel laws THE ASSOCIATION of Caribbean Media Workers (ACM) on Monday called on the Government of Jamaica and all other Caribbean community countries to take action to erase the common law offences of criminal libel, including blasphemous, obscene and seditious libel from their statute books.

“It is a position endorsed by a Joint Select Committee of the Jamaican Parliament in 2008, following submission of the Justice Hugh Small Report that very year,” the ACM, in reference to the situation in Jamaica, said in its message to mark World Press Freedom Day which was celebrated on Tuesday.

It added: “Though the media landscape in the Caribbean is undergoing a measure of change, such change is not being matched by a corresponding revolution in official mindset. Despite repeated promises, the Government of Guyana persists in its refusal to award new radio broadcasting licences and has used state advertising revenues as a tool of media punishment and reward.”

ACM President Wesley Gibbings said, too, that the state media in Trinidad and Tobago still wrestle with the spectre of political control

“and there is evidence that a coercive broadcast content quota system will return, courtesy state regulators, to the front burner in due course”.

The regional media group also bemoaned the fact that majority of Caribbean Community countries have also not passed access to information laws, which it regarded as a prerequisite to declaration of the bona fides of a Caribbean country as one committed to transparency and accountability. “In instances where such laws exist, it is also important to ensure they are truly providing unfettered access to official information in the way originally intended,” said Gibbings.

At the same time, he urged politicians to shun the inclination to blame media messengers in an attempt to vilify the media for stories unfavourable to them.

The Media Association of Jamaica (MAJ), meanwhile, said the country, “our democracy and our people have benefited from a relatively free press” for the entire two decades of the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day. “Over the years, there have been some challenges and some difficulties but overall our political

administrations, our civil society groups and our media have been able to cultivate an environment in which traditional and new media have grown and multiplied,” said the MAJ. The Jamaican media, it said, must resolve today that whatever challenges that now exist cannot be too significant to resolve in the interest of freedom of expression, responsibility and democracy.

However, while saluting media workers, managers and owners as Jamaica joins several other countries around the world in marking World Press Freedom Day, the MAJ said while progress has been made in reforming the country’s defamation laws, the process is incomplete. It said, too, that progress has been made in the review of the Access to Information laws, “but the work there is incomplete; changes to the use of Government Reserved Time has been taking place, but the process is incomplete and major changes in the regulations for broadcasting have been proposed but the consultative and deliberative process is also incomplete”. (Jamaicanobserver)

Pierre and Joyce win ultimate beauty titles in the Bahamas HUNDREDS OF pageant enthusiasts and supporters flooded the Atlantis Theatre on Sunday evening, to witness firsthand the Miss Bahamas contestants compete for the ultimate titles of Miss Bahamas Universe and Miss World Bahamas.

Competition was stiff, but 22-year-old Anastagia Pierre walked away with the coveted Miss Bahamas Universe title and 23-year-old Sasha Joyce, Miss World Bahamas, both adorning new crowns made by world renowned Venezuelan jewelry designer George Wittels, who also served as a judge.

Also assigned to the impressive slate of judges, responsible for selecting the national beauty queens were world class photographer Fadil Berisha, former Miss Bahamas World 2007 Anya Watkins-Mousis, former Miss Tanzania and Miss Universe 2007 semi-finalist Flaviana Matata, Fashion Editorial Director of Profiles98 Magazine Walter Greene, Fashion Director for the Miss Universe Organisation Alisha Crutchfield and Miss Bahamas Committee Member Anishka Lockhart.

Under the theme “All That Jazz” the evening started out with the 14 young ladies performing the opening dance number, which fittingly

Miss Bahamas Beauty Pageant 2011’s five finalists from left to right are: Sasha Joyce, Shaire Delva, Anastagia Pierre, Daronique Young and Kristy Evans. (Photo: Azaleta Ishmael-Newry)

reflected the show’s theme.

After showcasing their physique in swimsuit and personal style in evening wear, that number dwindled to 10.

But of the top 10 spots, five were already pre determined “fast tracks,” which granted automatic entry into the semi-finals to the winners of the Sportswoman Challenge, Best in Swimsuit, Best in Talent, Beauty

With A Purpose and the People’s Choice Winner.

Following a brief on stage interview with the 10 semi-finalists, the top five finalists were named - Miss Abaco Kristy Evans, Miss Hersey’s Chocolate Daronique Young, Miss VPX Redline Anastagia Pierre, Miss Automall Sharie Delva and Miss Lucky Restaurant Sasha Joyce.

20

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May 7 - 13, 2011

May 7 - 13, 2011

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Latin American economies overheating, warns IMF

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ECONOMIES in Latin American are showing signs of overheating as growth this year is poised to be faster than previously estimated, the International Monetary Fund said in a report today.

Driven by high commodity prices and abundant global liquidity, Latin America and Caribbean economies should expand 4.7 percent this year, up from the 4 percent forecast made in the IMF’s previous regional outlook in October. Peru and Argentina will lead South America’s expansion at 7.5 percent and 6 percent respectively as Brazil, the region’s biggest economy, climbs 4.5 percent. Mexico will grow 4.6 percent, the IMF said.

In 2012, Brazil will grow 4.1 percent and Mexico 4 percent.

“Early signs of overheating pressures and possible excesses are appearing,” the IMF said in its report.

At the same time that demand pressures remain high throughout the region, credit growth is accelerating in many countries, the IMF said.

“We’ve been saying that the big problem for the region is overheating, but they’re not listening to us,” Nicolas Eyzaguirre, director of the IMF’s Western Hemisphere department, told reporters today in Mexico City. “We’re becoming, slowly, addicted to foreign credit.”

The growth of credit is fueling concern that lending levels are becoming unsustainable, especially in commodity-exporting countries experiencing strong inflows, the IMF said in the report.

“Although commonly used metrics do not yet suggest the presence of credit booms or clear evidence of asset bubbles, financial oversight needs to be strengthened and extended,” the Washingtonbased lender said.

As growth accelerates, inflation rates will climb and the region’s current account deficit widen, the IMF said. Inflation in Latin America and the Caribbean will end the year at 6.8 percent, up from 6.6 percent last year and 4.8 percent in 2009, while the region’s current account deficit will expand to 1.4 percent of gross domestic product from 1.2 percent in 2010, the IMF said.

Venezuela will lead the region in consumer price increases this year with an inflation rate of 32 percent, compared with an estimated 27 percent in 2010, the IMF said. Prices will rise 11 percent in Argentina and 5.9 percent in Brazil, the IMF said.

Brazil’s current account deficit will expand to 2.6 percent of GDP this year from 2.3 percent in 2010 and Argentina’s surplus will shrink to 0.1 percent of GDP from 0.9 percent.

Policy makers must monitor the evolution of inflation rates to ensure that price shocks from high global food and fuel costs don’t cause domestic prices and inflation expectations to rise, the IMF said.

May 7 - 13, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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World News

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May 7 - 13, 2011

How Osama bin Laden fell OSAMA BIN LADEN was not armed but did put up resistance when U.S. forces stormed a compound outside Islamabad and killed him, White House spokesman Jay Carney said Tuesday.

Carney, reading a narrative drawn up by the Defense Department, provided new details of the events that transpired early Monday when 25 U.S. Navy SEALs in two Black Hawk helicopters landed outside the compound in Abbottabad, about 50 kilometres (31 miles) north of Islamabad.

“They had to breach through walls,” CIA Director Leon Panetta, who commanded the mission and was in contact with the 25 commandos as it unfolded, told PBS. There were no armed guards around the compound, said a U.S. official who asked not to be identified because the official was not authorized to speak on the record.

In an operation that lasted nearly 40 minutes, the SEALs -- working in two groups -- methodically cleared the compound, where three families were living, Carney said.

One group went to a separate building in the compound; the other to the three-story building housing a family on the first floor and bin Laden and his family on the second and third floors, Carney said.

On the first floor of bin Laden’s building, two al Qaeda couriers were killed, as was a woman who was caught in the crossfire, Carney said.

Continuing their ascent to the second and third floors, the commandos found bin Laden and his wife, both of whom were unarmed, in a room, Carney said. “She rushed one of the U.S. assaulters and was shot in the leg but not killed,” he said. “Bin Laden was then shot and killed.”

The U.S. official said bin Laden was shot when he made a threatening move.

In all, said the U.S. official who sought anonymity, five of the approximately two dozen people in the compound were killed -- the two couriers, the woman, bin Laden and his son.

Officials have not publicly identified everyone who was in the compound.

Materials taken from the compound included 10 hard drives, five computers and more than 100 storage devices, such as disks, DVDs and thumb drives, a senior U.S. official told CNN Tuesday.

That material is being reviewed, said John Brennan, President Barack Obama’s top counterterrorism adviser.

In his first public comments on the raid, Attorney General Eric Holder Tuesday declared the operation “lawful, legitimate and appropriate in every way.”

U.S. officials have said they might release a post-mortem photo taken of bin Laden. There are “a lot to choose from,” and most are “very graphic,”

The world’s most wanted terrorist was shot to death by US Navy SEALs.

a senior government official said.

The officials have said DNA matching shows bin Laden was killed.

But the Taliban have questioned the assertion. “Obama has not got any strong evidence that can prove his claim over killing of the Sheikh Osama bin Laden,” Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mojahed said.

“And secondly, the closest sources for Sheikh Osama bin Laden have not confirmed” the death, he added.

The Pakistani Foreign Ministry, meanwhile, issued a statement Tuesday saying that members of bin Laden’s family were “in safe hands and being looked after in accordance with law. Some of them needing medical care are under treatment in the best possible facilities. As per policy, they will be handed over to their countries of origin.”

The jubilation in many parts of the world over bin Laden’s killing gave way Tuesday to increasing questions about how the world’s most-wanted terrorist could have hidden in a populated area two miles from the prestigious Kakul military academy, the West Point of Pakistan.

“How did bin Laden stay at that compound for about six years or so and be undetected?” Brennan asked.

“What type of support did he have outside of that compound in the Abbottabad area or more broadly within Pakistan? We’re going to look carefully at this and get to the bottom of it all.”

The mission took place without Pakistani leadership being informed beforehand, U.S. officials said.

“It was decided that any effort to work with the Pakistanis could jeopardise the mission,” Panetta told Time magazine. “They might alert the targets.”

However, Brennan insisted that “Pakistan has been a strong partner in the effort to destroy al Qaeda.”

In a Washington Post column, Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari expressed satisfaction “that the source of the greatest evil of the new millennium has been silenced, and his victims given justice” and defended his country’s actions.

“Some in the U.S. press have

suggested that Pakistan lacked vitality in its pursuit of terrorism, or worse yet that we were disingenuous and actually protected the terrorists we claimed to be pursuing. Such baseless speculation may make exciting cable news, but it doesn’t reflect fact,” Zardari wrote.

The foreign ministry called bin Laden’s death “an important milestone in the fight against terrorism,” but also expressed “deep concerns” about the fact that U.S. officials failed to notify the government of Pakistan prior to the attack.

“This event of unauthorised unilateral action cannot be taken as a rule,” the statement said. “Such actions undermine cooperation and may also sometime constitute (a) threat to international peace and security.”

The senior Pakistani intelligence official who spoke Tuesday to CNN said, “Yes, we did fail to locate him.

Yes, we are embarrassed. But that does not mean we are incompetent and straddling the fence.”

The compound where bin Laden was holed up was surrounded by walls 10 to 18 feet tall and topped by barbed wire. It sat far from a main road, secluded.

How al Qaeda and its adherents will be affected remains an open question. “Leadership in al Qaeda tends to be replaced,” former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld told CNN Tuesday. “I expect there will be someone who will step up.”

Rumsfeld, who was in office during the September 11 attacks, praised Bush administration policies that came under heated criticism.

Noting that tracking one of bin Laden’s trusted couriers led the United States to identify bin Laden’s location, Rumsfeld defended the Bush administration’s practice of detaining low-level people, a practice that critics derided as unwarranted.

“It is those individuals that know the habits and locations of the senior people,” he said.

Rumsfeld also stood by the use of waterboarding, which the Obama administration has outlawed as torture. Rumsfeld said the information taken from three people who were waterboarded and passed on to then-CIA Director Michael Hayden proved to be “enormously valuable.”

However, White House spokesman Carney said Monday’s events had not changed Obama’s opposition to so-called enhanced interrogation techniques.

Panetta said he too saw no need for a return to using such techniques.

“Obviously, there was some valuable information that was derived through those kinds of interrogations, but I guess the question that everybody will always debate is whether or not those approaches had to be used in order to get the same information,” he told CBS News. “And that, frankly, is an open question.” (CNN)

Prince William and Kate at the altar (Credit: Getty Images)

Duchess prepares for life as an RAF wife LAST FRIDAY, she was marrying into the Royal family in front of a global audience of billions.

But on Tuesday, the Duchess of Cambridge was doing her best to be nothing more than a loyal housewife as her husband prepared to go back to work as an RAF pilot.

Prince William and his bride returned to their rented farmhouse on Anglesey following their three-day mini-honeymoon at a secret location in the U.K..

The Duke returns to his search and rescue squadron at RAF Valley later this week, leaving the Duchess to get on with the housework at their marital home, where they have no servants or staff.

St James’s Palace has made it clear that the Duchess’s primary role for the immediate future will be as

an officer’s wife, supporting Prince William both at home and when he carries out official engagements.

A royal source said the couple would be spending the next few days at home on Anglesey.

“They’re very much looking forward to getting home and having some time together before the Duke settles back into his working routine.”

The couple announced on Saturday that they had postponed their honeymoon, but St James’s Palace said it was “still very much their intention to have a honeymoon overseas at a later date”.

St James’s Palace has refused to disclose where the Duke and Duchess spent their post-wedding break, but denied reports that the couple had been on Anglesey the entire time. (The Daily Telegraph)

Somali pirates get 439-year sentences IN A RARE case, a Spanish court convicted two Somalia men of piracy in the 2009 takeover of a Spanish fishing vessel and sentenced each to 439 years in prison, according to a copy of the sentence viewed by CNN on Tuesday.

The long prison terms stem mainly from the conviction for illegal detention of the vessel’s 36 crew members, with a sentence of 11 years for each count of piracy, or 396 years.

In addition, the defendants were convicted on three other counts, including armed robbery and belonging to a criminal gang, which boosted the overall sentence to 439 years.

The vessel, the Alakrana, was freed in November 2009 after being held for 47 days off the coast of Somalia. The crew included 16 Spanish sailors and 20 from Africa and Asia.

A day after the hijacking by 12 armed pirates, Spanish military monitoring the situation captured two pirate suspects on Oct. 3, 2009 as they left the fishing vessel. Then authorities took the unusual step of bringing them to Madrid.

Many other pirate suspects who have been captured by international military forces --- trying to ensure the safety of merchant shipping and fishing off the coast of Somalia --have been taken to African nations for court procedures, but not to Europe.

The Spanish court identified the two as Raageggesey Hassan Aji, of Ceel Maccan, Somalia, who was born in 1978, although his birthdate was not disclosed; and Cabdiweli Cabdullahi, of Marka, Somalia, with no age given, although the court determined before the trial that was an adult.

May 7 - 13, 2011

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

27

Canada Liberal leader US Calls Syrian AntiIgnatieff quits after election FORMER HARVARD professor Michael Ignatieff says he is resigning as the leader of Canada’s Liberal Party, after a crushing defeat in the country’s general election.

PM Stephen Harper’s Conservative Party took 167 seats to win a majority government in Monday’s election.

The New Democratic Party (NDP) became the official opposition by claiming 102 seats, while the Liberals took 34.

The election marks the worst defeat in the history of the Liberal Party.

Mr Ignatieff said on Tuesday that Conservative attack ads, which made use of the more than 30 years Mr Ignatieff lived in Europe and the US, had a large impact on the outcome of the election.

“My attachment to the country, my patriotism were questioned, my motivations were questioned and that had a political effect, there’s no doubt about that, but I have to also take my responsibilities,” Mr Ignatieff said.

The Liberal Party dropped from 77 seats to 34 in the House of Commons, with Mr Ignatieff even losing his own seat in a suburb of the city of Toronto.

The election marks the first time in Canadian history the Liberal Party did not finish either first or second.

Mr Harper, meanwhile, pledged he would not shift his party to the right in light of it having won its first parliamentary majority.

“We got that mandate because the way we have governed and Canadians expect us to continue to

move forward in the same way,” he said.

Conservatives won 167 of the 308 electoral districts, earning 40% of the vote and 54% of the seats in parliament, Elections Canada reported.

US President Barack Obama called Mr Harper to congratulate him on the victory, the White House said.

“The president said he looked forward to continuing his close cooperation with the prime minister,” the White House said in a statement.

Mr Obama renewed his commitment to cross-border co-operation on trade, customs enforcement and security, the White House said.

Mr Harper, who took office in 2006, has previously won two elections but never before led a majority government.

Monday’s vote was Canada’s fourth general election in seven years.

Mr Harper went into the election having headed two successive minority Conservative governments since 2006. His party held 143 seats in the House of Commons prior to the dissolution of the last government.

Analysts say the prime minister has slowly nudged the country further to the right during his fiveyear tenure.

He has lowered sales and corporate taxes, avoided signing climate change legislation and become a stark advocate of Arctic sovereignty.

He has also increased military spending and extended Canada’s military mission in Afghanistan.

(BBC)

Portugal reaches deal on EU and IMF bail-out PORTUGAL’S caretaker Prime Minister Jose Socrates says he has reached agreement on a bail-out from the EU and the International Monetary Fund.

In a televised statement, Mr Socrates said the three-year loan was a “good agreement that defends Portugal”.

His office says Portugal will be asking for financial assistance worth 78bn euros ($116bn; £70bn).

Officials from the European Commission, European Central Bank and IMF have been working on a deal for three weeks.

Mr Socrates said that Portugal would be given more time to reach its budget deficit targets than had previously been expected.

The deficit will have to be cut to 5.9% of GDP this year, 4.5% in 2012 and 3% in 2013.

Portugal had previously aimed to

reduce the deficit to 4.6% this year, 3% in 2012 and 2% in 2013.

AUSTERITY MEASURES “I would like to announce to the Portuguese people that the government has reached agreement today with the representatives of international institutions on the programme of financial aid to our country,” he said.

Mr Socrates resigned as prime minister after failing to get austerity measures through parliament. There will be a general election on 5 June.

The deal has to be endorsed by the main opposition parties.

The deadline for the bail-out money to be in place is 15 June, when Portugal has to repay nearly 5bn euros of debt.

Portugal was the third eurozone country to have to ask for a bail-out, after Greece and Ireland.

Protest Actions ‘Barbaric’

THE SYRIAN government, which initially proposed reforms, has mounted a security sweep that it acknowledges included nearly 500 arrests on Sunday in Daraa alone.

State Department Acting Deputy Spokesman Mark Toner told reporters that U.S. officials are “very disturbed” about credible reports of military operations in Daraa that include tanks.

“We’ve seen reports the Syrian government is conducting a widespread campaign of arbitrary arrests that target young men in Daraa,” said Toner. “It’s also our understanding that electricity, communications and other public services have been cut off for several days, and that the humanitarian situation there is quite grave. These are, quite frankly, barbaric measures, and they amount to the collective punishment of innocent civilians.”

Late last week, the Obama administration tightened long-

standing sanctions against Syria, imposing economic curbs on intelligence and security officials, including a brother of President Assad who commands an army division operating in Daraa.

Asked whether the Syrian president might become a target of U.S. sanctions, spokesman Toner said options for further U.S. action “remain on the table.”

Amnesty International said Tuesday that it has received firsthand reports of torture and other ill-treatment of Syrian detainees as a wave of arrests of anti-government protesters intensified last weekend.

Amnesty’s international advocacy director, T. Kumar, says the tactics suggest that the Assad government has embarked on a “full blown crackdown” to crush the protest movement.

“What we have found recently is that on top of mass killings, using heavy weapons on civilian protesters,

we also learned that those who have been arrested for peacefully demonstrating have been beaten up, tortured,” said Kumar. “They also experienced harsh detention conditions.”

An Amnesty International statement says protesters who have been swept up in the arrest wave in recent days are being held at unknown locations without access to visits from lawyers or family members, adding to fear for their safety.

The human rights monitoring group says it has obtained the names of 54 Syrians who were killed last Friday, bringing to 542 the number of protesters, bystanders and others who have been killed in six weeks of unrest.

Last week, the U.N. Human Rights Council condemned human rights violations in Syria and called for a U.N. fact-finding mission to investigate. (VOA)

Senior citizens busted on pot-farming charges IT’S PRETTY common these days for robbers to target homes where marijuana is being grown.

Not so common: When the suspected pot growers are two women past retirement age.

That was what San Bruno police uncovered Friday, according to San Mateo County prosecutors.

It all began when neighbors heard loud banging coming from the women’s home on Valleywood Drive, nestled in between Skyline Boulevard and Interstate 280.

Then they saw two men, later identified as Kitae Chae, 38, and Kenny Kong, 34, breaking down the front door and lingering inside for a few minutes before driving off in a BMW, District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe said.

The neighbours called police, and officers who stopped the BMW in South San Francisco found the men with $12,000 in cash, marijuana packaging material and seven ecstasy pills, Wagstaffe said.

When they arrived at the

Aleen Lam, 72, charged with growing hundreds of marijuana plants in her San Bruno home. (San Mateo County sheriff photo)

Valleywood Drive home, investigators found a substantial potgrowing operation: more than 800 marijuana plants, $3,000 in cash and a bypass through which electricity was being stolen from Pacific Gas and Electric Co., police said.

In short order, officers arrested the occupants -- 72-year-old Aleen Lam and Virginia Chan Pon, 65. It’s not Pon’s first run-in with the law: She is already facing charges in Yolo County for allegedly passing more than $40,000 in bad checks over a three-day period at Cache Creek Casino.

“I have never seen or heard of women in their 60s and 70s running a grow house,” Wagstaffe said. “I certainly hope it is aberrational rather than a trend. I suppose profiteering in illegal enterprises crosses all the generations.”

The two women face a variety of drug charges, and Chae and Kong are accused of drug and burglary counts.

Lam has not yet entered a plea, while the others have pleaded not guilty.

All four are being held at San Mateo County Jail in lieu of $100,000 bail each.

Prosecutors have filed a motion requiring that the two women show a legitimate source for any bail they post. (sfgate.com)

Third man sentenced in gang rape of 12-year-old Texas girl GLENN AUTHAR Williams, 19, has been sentenced to 40 years in prison for the rape of a 12-year-old girl after a high school football game in September 2010.

Williams was convicted last month of aggravated sexual assault

of a child in the rape.

Prosecutor Guy Conine said the victim attended a football game in Tyler and then went with three girls she knew to the home of one of the men.

Conine told The Associated Press

that the victim did not know the men.

Brandon High, 20, and Josh Baker, 19, both pleaded guilty in March to aggravated sexual assault of a child charges and each was sentenced to 15 years in prison. (www.kwtx.com)

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Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 7 - 13, 2011

British supermodel Rosie HuntingtonWhiteley tops Maxim Hot 100 list MAXIM magazine has just released its annual Hot 100 list, and topping it is British supermodel Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.

Which may be a bit of an ego blow to Megan Fox, whom HuntingtonWhiteley has replaced as the siren in the Transformers movie franchise.

The third installment, “Transformers: Dark of the Moon” is due in theaters in July. \ Despite no acting experience, Huntington-Whiteley was picked over 500 women who aspired to steam up the screen opposite Shia LaBeouf.

Director Michael Bay told the Yahoo movie blog: “Replacing Megan, it was something more interesting to go with something brand new and fresh. Because, when it’s brand new it’s kind of a new discovery for the audience, too.” The blog also features a trailer from the movie.

The Maxim list also included these notables: Fox (gasp) at 17, just married Kate Middleton at 26, Avril Lavigne (who are they kidding?) at 34, Lindsay Lohan at 38 and Miley Cyrus at 64.

Here’s what Maxim had to say about the choice of HuntingtonWhiteley to top the list: “All hail Maxim’s new queen! When we first heard rumblings of

Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart both receive acting nominations for Twilight Eclipse.

Twilight sequel leads MTV Movie Awards field Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

a Megan Fox replacement in Transformers: Dark of the Moon, we wept into our Optimus Prime pillows for weeks. As it turns out, director Michael Bay found someone even foxier. Making her Hot 100 debut at the No. 1 spot and scoring her first big screen role in the next Transformers,

please give a warm, not-creepy welcome to supermodel and allaround British bombshell Rosie Huntington-Whiteley!”

The editors of Maxim noted, “As we’ve learned from producing 11 years of the Hot 100, ranking the world’s hottest women is a gruelling job...” (oregonlive.com)

FANTASY SEQUEL The Twilight Saga: Eclipse has received eight nominations ahead of this year’s MTV Movie Awards.

The third film in the vampire franchise is up for best movie, while its stars Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart both receive acting nods.

Leonardo DiCaprio film Inception is up for seven prizes, among them best line in a movie - a new category this year.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 has six nominations, while The Social Network has five.

Both Pattinson and Stewart will be defending the acting titles they won last year when the second Twilight film, New Moon, walked away with four prizes.

This year Pattinson goes up against fellow Twilight star Taylor Lautner, Zac Efron for Charlie St Cloud, Potter star Daniel Radcliffe and The Social Network’s Jesse Eisenberg.

Stewart’s competition includes Oscar winner Natalie Portman for Black Swan, Radcliffe’s Potter co-star Emma Watson and former Friends star Jennifer Aniston.

MTV’s annual salute to Hollywood will see prizes awarded for best fight, best kiss and best jawdropping moment.

The awards, which are voted for by the public, will be handed out at a Los Angeles ceremony on 5 June hosted by Saturday Night Live star Jason Sudeikis. (BBC)

Kartel denied U.K visa, shows in Europe cancelled

The Book of Mormon star Andrew Rannells (centre) also picked up an acting nomination (BBC photo)

South Park creators dominate Tony nominations SOUTH PARK creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone have landed 14 Tony nominations in the US for their Broaday musical The Book of Mormon.

The show about two missionaries who find more than they bargained for in Africa, is up for original score, best musical and lead actor in a musical.

Al Pacino is up for best actor in a play for The Merchant of Venice, as is UK actor Mark Rylance for Jerusalem.

The stage awards ceremony takes place in New York on 12 June.

The Scottsboro Boys, based on the

1930s case in which nine black men were unjustly accused of attacking two white women on an Alabama train, picked up 12 nominations.

It is up for best musical, book of a musical, original score as well as a leading actor and two featured actor nods.

Cole Porter’s Anything Goes gained nine nominations, including best revival and best actress for Sutton Foster.

While How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying garnered eight, although its star Harry Potter’s Daniel Radcliffe - was not recognised.

Veteran actress Vanessa Redgrave earned a best actress in a play nod for her role in Driving Miss Daisy.

She will compete against Frances McDormand for Good People, Nina Arianda for Born Yesterday, Lily Rabe for The Merchant of Venice and Hannah Yelland for Brief Encounter.

There was also a nomination for Pirates of the Caribbean star Mackenzie Crook for his performance in Jez Butterworth’s Jerusalem.

And Absolutely Fabulous star Joanna Lumley also received a best supporting actress in a featured role nod for her performance in La Bete.

VYBZ KARTEL’S legion of visa woes continue after the popular Dancehall artist’s application for a United Kingdom visa was denied.

Reports suggest that the UK High Commission in Kingston turned down the deejay’s application for a working visa in Britain just a few days before his schedule European tour. As a pinball effect of that decision, promoters in Germany, Holland, Italy, England & France had to cancel shows booked for Kartel to perform at.

Such shows included, popular Rotterdam Reggae festival in Holland, Rockers Rockers Rockers Festival in France, two shows in Germany and a show scheduled today for Livelloundiciottavi in Lecce, Italy. In the latter show, The Portmore Empire leader was expected to perform alongside fellow members, Popcaan & Shawn Storm.

While Kartel, real name Adidja Palmer, was silent about the matter, promoters in Germany released a statement confirming his absence

Vybz Kartel

from their lineup. “Due to the fact that the artiste Vybz Kartel did not receive his visa from the UK High Commission in Jamaica, he won’t be in Europe again this week! We will try and reschedule his tour for June, 2011, when he will be touring both the UK and Europe. We are very sorry for this massive disappointment, and inconvenience to all dancehall fans, and most importantly, “Vybz Kartel” fans,” their statement read.

Despite this major setback, Kartel is still scheduled to perform, via satellite, at the Best of the Best concert on May 29 in Miami, Florida. (examiner.com)

May 7 - 13, 2011

Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

29

Box office preview: Mighty 'Thor' ready to rule the weekend

Jesse James Ex-Wife To Release A Book "Exposing" Him As if this lady needed any more attention, Jesse James’ second exwife, Janine Lindemulder is writing her own book.

The porn star who lost custody of her 7-year-old daughter Sunny to Jesse (that doesn’t say much for Janine) is writing a book based on her life and her horrible relationship with him.

The 42-year-old Lindemulder claims she wants to get her $tory out there and expose Jesse for the loser and womanizer he truly is.

Reveals Lindemulder: “I have no intention [to read American Outlaw] because I’m sure it is just one big ‘pity party’ for Jesse.

The man lacks accountability and is known to talk only in half-truths. But it’s time he stops treating friends, workers, former business partners and especially women badly. He has a warped and disrespectful attitude towards women and people need to

know the truth about that.”

But her book is going to be educational as well.

Janine adds: “I want to educate people about Parental Alienation Syndrome because that is what he has put me and my daughter through over the past few years. In many ways, it’s worse than physical abuse because it never stops and really affects the way a child views the world. I will not stop with my campaign until the day I die.”

As for Jesse and his “player” ways, she reveals: “He was a player from day one.

He was calling me after he married Sandra Bullock but I explain more about that in my book. [It] has to stop.”

Really, we're not sure who's going to be that interested in her book.

Would U buy it?

Nic Cage won't face domestic abuse charges LOS ANGELES — Actor Nicolas Cage has avoided prosecution in New Orleans three weeks after he was arrested following a drunken argument with his wife, People magazine reported Thursday.

It quoted his attorney as saying that charges of domestic abuse battery, disturbing the peace and public drunkenness won't be pursued.

"The New Orleans District Attorney has confirmed that no charges of any kind will be pursued against him," Harry Rosenberg told the magazine. "After their investigation, the DAs refused all charges against Nick and the matter has been closed."

After-hours calls to officials in New Orleans were not answered, and Cage's publicist did not immediately reply to an email seeking further information.

Story: Dog the Bounty Hunter bails out Nicolas Cage The 47-year-old actor was taken into custody late on April 16 after police said he and his third wife,

Although this year’s box office still trails 2010 by 16 percent, Fast Five‘s monster $86.2 million debut last weekend was definitely a step in the right direction. Thor will attempt to continue the momentum, and while the Marvel superhero flick will likely fall short of Fast Five‘s opening, it should still post a large enough number to officially launch the summer movie season. The frame’s two other new releases, the wedding comedies Something Borrowed and Jumping the Broom, will fight over the female moviegoers not tempted

by Thor’s mighty hammer. Both films may receive a little boost on Sunday, which happens to be Mother’s Day — you haven’t forgotten, right? Here are my predictions for the top five: 1. Thor: $69 million There’s no denying that the god of thunder is one of Marvel’s less recognizable superheroes, but that didn’t stop the original Iron Man from grossing $98.6 million its first weekend in 2008. However, unlike Iron Man‘s Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth is hardly a household name. Furthermore, when Iron Man debuted, its most prominent competition was the minor romantic comedy Made of Honor. But Thor has to contend with another huge PG-13 action film in Fast Five, which has already tallied $103.2 million in just six days. Luckily, Thor‘s reviews have been encouraging for the most part, and the $150 million movie will benefit from the price hikes at 2,737 3-D theaters and 214 IMAX locations.

2. Fast Five: $38 million The prior film in the street-racing franchise, 2009′s Fast & Furious, fell 62 percent its second weekend.

But Fast Five earned much stronger reviews and is sporting an overall “A” grade from CinemaScore audiences.

So I’m thinking a 55 percent decline

instead, which would push the film’s two-week domestic gross past $146 million.

3. Something Borrowed: $12.5 million Third place is a tossup between Something Borrowed and Jumping the Broom, but I’m giving a very slight edge to the former, if only because it’s opening in 869 more theaters. This PG-13 romantic comedy finds Ginnifer Goodwin falling in love with Colin Egglesfield, who’s engaged to Kate Hudson. Drama, like, ensues.

Reviews have been underwhelming, but with Mother’s Day on Sunday and not much else playing for female moviegoers, the $35 million movie could wind up with an opening in the mid-teens. I’m playing it safe, though, and sticking with a figure in the tweens.

4. Jumping the Broom: $12 million The PG-13 comedy, which features a predominantly AfricanAmerican cast, revolves around a Martha’s Vineyard wedding and

the convergence of two groups: the wealthy family of the bride (Paula Patton) and the working-class kin of the groom (Laz Alonso). Also starring Angela Bassett, Loretta Devine, Mike Epps, and Modern Family‘s Julie Bowen, Jumping the Broom is receiving decent reviews and could attract a significant portion of the audience that showed up for Madea’s Big Happy Family two weeks ago. And like Something Borrowed, the $7 million film should also look forward to a Mother’s Day bump.

5. Rio: $9 million Many boys, with Lightning Hammers in hand, may be lured away by Thor, but the G-rated Rio will remain be the movie of choice for those with very young children.

Expect a drop of around 40 percent.

Also debuting in 22 theaters is the Jodie Foster-directed dramedy The Beaver, starring Mel Gibson (yes, that Mel Gibson) as a middleaged guy who starts using a beaver hand-puppet to communicate with the world.

It’s A Girl For Rocker Bryan Adams Alice Kim, got into an argument about the correct address of the home they were renting.

Don't miss these Entertainment stories According to a statement that described him as "heavily intoxicated," Cage began striking cars and tried to get into a taxi cab.

He then yelled at police officers who promptly arrested him. There were no visible injuries to his wife.

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Bryan Adams is a dad at 51.

The rocker has just become a parent to a little girl, the Canadian confirmed in a statement to Access Hollywood.

“I’m really proud to announce on 22 April, Mirabella Bunny was born,” the “Boys of Summer” singer said.

“She arrived like all good Easter bunnies on Easter Friday,” he added.

The baby’s mom is Alicia Grimaldi, Bryan’s assistant, and he told Access she’s doing just fine.

“Mother and baby are both well

and happy. Thanks in advance for your kind thoughts and wishes,” Bryan added.

Bryan first revealed he and Alicia were expecting back in March via a Tweet, in which he linked to an article titled, “Bryan Adams to become dad at 51,” on the CBC News website.

He later confirmed it further with a statement to Access.

“Alicia Grimaldi and I are expecting a baby,” Bryan’s statement to Access Hollywood read. “She helped me start my foundation years ago and it looks like she’ll be running the family now. Thanks for

your support and kind messages, we appreciate it greatly.”

Alicia is a trustee of the Bryan Adams Foundation. She reportedly helped set up the group in 2004, according to CBC News.

30

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

May 7 - 13, 2011

Will there ever be an Aids vaccine?

THE HUNT for a vaccine for HIV is perhaps the most urgent – and the most frustrating – project in modern medicine. Almost 30 years after the virus was identified, we have had some success in managing HIV and Aids, once contracted – but progress towards finding a full-blown vaccine remains painfully slow. Which is why a group of eminent Aids scientistshas made the controversial suggestion that we should, in effect, rip up the scientific rule book.

The researchers argue that the problem of Aids is so grave that it would be better to adopt an “adaptive” design for clinical trials of potential vaccines, in which researchers do not wait for the final results, but begin looking for signs of effectiveness immediately – and ditch a candidate quickly or alter the trial’s design if none is found.

This technique would, they say, help cull the research red herrings that have done so much to slow their progress. But it also involves a huge gamble: chopping and changing clinical trials may speed up breakthroughs, but it may also introduce fatal biases and render their findings invalid.

No one doubts that a vaccine is desperately needed. In 2009, there were 2.2 million new infections around the world. The devastation wreaked in sub-Saharan Africa, where two thirds of all infected people live, is shocking: in 1990, before the epidemic took off, the average life expectancy in Zimbabwe was 62.4 years; by December 2006, it had plummeted to 34 years for women and 37 years for men.

Combination treatment, which uses an array of new antiviral drugs, has seen death rates fall, particularly in the developed world.

But the medicines are expensive, and lifelong compliance with the complex therapy is challenging to maintain. There is also the constant threat of some strains of HIV becoming resistant to the drugs.

A vaccine may require only one dose to prevent infection – but the search has been marked by false hopes and high-profile failures. Of the three major vaccines tested in humans, the first, VaxGen gp120, showed no protective effect. The next, called Step, not only failed to protect subjects, but was actually shown to increase the risk of infection in some categories of volunteer.

It was only in 2009 that a chink of light emerged: a vaccine called RV144 reduced infections in a relatively low-risk Thai population by 31 per cent. That might sound modest, but scientists hailed it as a proof of concept: a vaccine could, in fact, prevent HIV infection to some degree.

Since this vaccine is the only one in existence to have shown any signs of working, the researchers, writing

in the journalScience Translational Medicine, say their proposals for quicker, more flexible clinical trials must be adopted to accelerate its development.

The 11 scientists, who include Dr Anthony Fauci, the director of the US government’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and Professor Giuseppe Pantaleo, the director of the Swiss Vaccine Institute in Lausanne, explain that similar adaptive trials were used in the successful development of a vaccine against human papillomavirus, when the drug company Merck was able to link the vaccine’s efficacy to the production of antibodies early on in the process, and adjust the trial’s design accordingly.

For HIV, this would mean closely monitoring a trial, enabling it to be axed quickly, or have “adaptations” made, such as adding booster vaccinations or recruiting volunteers from higher-risk groups.

Such shortcuts, the scientists concede, may come at a price. The interim changes could “lead to bias and reduced statistical power and may complicate interpretation of results”. By peeking at the results early, researchers may have to “unblind” a trial, identifying which volunteers had received the real vaccine, and which had a placebo.

Ideally, researchers don’t know who is given what, in order to avoid preconceived ideas as to which subjects are responding.

According to Dr Fauci, the risk is worth taking: “We need to be more pragmatic,” he insists, “and unblind the trials after a year instead of three years. Then we can say: ‘Look, there is so little evidence of effectiveness here that we should drop this vaccine

and concentrate our resources on this treatment or this particular regimen – and switch patients into it.’ “ With quicker recruitment of volunteers and earlier decisionmaking, Prof Pantaleo says it will be possible to focus on useful vaccines and simultaneously learn more about the immune system changes that indicate a vaccine is having an effect. Shockingly, despite nearly three decades of HIV research, “there are no known correlates of immune protection” – or, to put in another way, the world’s top researchers have yet to identify any immediate biological signs that indicate whether or not an HIV vaccine is working, something that would prove invaluable for their research. At the moment they can only wait and see whether a vaccine reduces infection rates in the longer term.

Professor Frances Gotch, an HIV vaccine researcher who runs the International Aids Vaccine Initiative laboratory at Imperial College London, backs the calls for quicker and more flexible clinical trials, but also foresees problems. “We shouldn’t forget that changing trials halfway through requires a massive amount of paperwork and more resources,” she says. “I’m involved in a trial in Tanzania, and there have been changes to the design.

We decided to give an extra boost of the vaccine at the end of the trial – for good scientific reasons – but the amount of extra paperwork, for getting new ethical approvals and so on, was incredible.”

Even if sufficient resources are made available, the ethical problems could prove even more searching.

Vaccines are not the only method that is being proposed for preventing infection: applying gels containing

microbicides and using anti-HIV drugs, either before or immediately after sex, have also been touted as methods of stopping infection, albeit less-than-ideal ones.

Prof Gotch notes that with some evidence of the effectiveness of both methods emerging, it might become increasingly hard to justify clinical trials in which participants use only the vaccine that is being tested.

“How can you say to people: ‘Do try our experimental vaccine, but don’t use microbicides, even though they offer some protection, because we’re trying to test the vaccine’s effectiveness and the microbicide might skew the results?’ “ she asks.

“I think that ethically, it’s going to get more and more difficult to test the vaccines in isolation.”

Dr Fauci agrees that if the effectiveness of microbicides is established – which seems likely – then they will have to be offered in clinical trials, which will make it more difficult to know whether or not a vaccine is working.

“We usually plan the size of a vaccine trial according to the rate of infection we expect to see,” he explains. “We might expect 100 infections in a given time period in, say, 2,000 volunteers. But if all the volunteers are using microbicides, which halve the risk of infection, then we would need to recruit twice as many people to get the same statistically significant number of infections. So yes, this will become an issue.”

Prof Gotch says such factors makes her less hopeful that an effective vaccine will emerge. “I’m trying to keep optimistic,” she says, “but I think it’s possible that there never will be an effective HIV

vaccine.” However, she is not without hope. “Of course, a good vaccine is the gold standard, but I’m a lot calmer now about the possibility of never having one, because there are things like microbicides that show people can help protect themselves.

At least we are making some sort of progress.”

The problem Finding a vaccine is exceptionally difficult, because researchers are attempting a first – creating immunisation against a retrovirus, a type of virus that exists outside our cells, in the form of RNA (a form of genetic material). As such, they have no successful models from which to work.

People infected with HIV do produce antibodies, but these rarely tackle all of the virus: some particles escape recognition, probably because HIV mutates so rapidly. In addition, the window of opportunity is very limited – just days or hours – before the virus ‘’hides’’ itself from the body’s immune defences by converting itself into DNA, and inserting itself into the genes in our cells, where it is effectively indistinguishable from the rest of our genome.

Months, years or even decades later, the virus may re-emerge and spread to other cells. Anti-retroviral drugs can decrease its quantity, and delay the development of Aids, but they do not eliminate the HIV hidden in our genes. And, as HIV replicates, many important white blood cells are lost, some due to “friendly fire” by the immune system. Our defences are gradually worn down, and the opportunistic infections and cancers that are associated with Aids start to appear. (www.telegraph.co.uk)

Still bottle-feeding your child at age 2? It might be time to reconsider GIVING THAT 24-month-old a bottle may seem good at the time.

It’s familiar, easy and reassuring to the budding toddler. But a new study suggests that prolonged bottle use may have repercussions down the road.

Researchers from Ohio State University College of Public Health assessed data from a study of 6,750 children on lifestyle habits and height and weight, finding that about 22% still drank from a bottle at 24 months. By age 5 1/2, 22.9% of children who were drinking from a bottle at 24 months were obese, compared to 16.1% of children who

were not drinking from a bottle at age 2.

The results were published online Thursday in the Journal of Pediatrics.

The researchers wrote: “Prolonged bottle use may lead to the child consuming excess calories, particularly when parents are using the bottle to comfort the child rather than to address the child’s hunger or nutritional needs.”

They acknowledge that they lacked data on the children’s physical activity or details about their diet, saying children given a bottle at older ages may have been more likely to consume

Children who drink from a bottle at 24 months may be more likely to be obese at age 5 1/2, a new study suggests.(Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)

sugar-sweetened drinks or have been less likely to be exclusively breast-fed.

But they nonetheless concluded that 12 months is probably a reasonable

point at which to stop using the bottle. Other health experts, most notably those associated with the American Academy of Pediatrics, agree. (latimes.com)

May 7 - 13, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

31

Science & Technology Was it mind blowing? Sex, coffee, cola can cause aneurysm, stroke A NEW STUDY published this week from The Netherlands states that having sex, blowing your nose or even drinking coffee can temporarily raise your risk of rupturing a brain aneurysm and suffering a stroke. Little is known about activities that trigger rupture of an intracranial aneurysm. Knowledge on what triggers aneurysmal rupture increases insight into the pathophysiology and facilitates development of prevention strategies.

Dutch researchers identified eight main triggers that appear to increase the risk of intracranial aneurysm, a weakness in the wall of a brain blood vessel that often causes it to balloon. If it ruptures, it can result in a subarachnoid hemorrhage which is a stroke caused by bleeding at the base of the brain.

Monique H.M. Vlak, M.D., lead author of the study and a neurologist at the University Medical Center in Utrecht, the Netherlands explains: “All of the triggers induce a sudden and short increase in blood pressure, which seems a possible common cause for aneurysmal rupture.

Subarachnoid hemorrhage caused by the rupture of an intracranial aneurysm is a devastating event that often affects young adults.

These trigger factors we found are superimposed on known risk factors, including female gender, age and hypertension.”

So what do we have to look out for? According to the study published by the American Heart Association, considering the fraction of all subarachnoid hemorrhages that can be attributed to a particular trigger factor, the researchers identified the eight factors and their contribution to the risk as:

Drinking coffee can actually raise your risk of rupturing a brain aneurysm.

Coffee consumption (10.6 percent), Vigorous physical exercise (7.9 percent), Nose blowing (5.4 percent), Sexual intercourse (4.3 percent), Straining to defecate (3.6 percent), Cola consumption (3.5 percent), Being startled (2.7 percent) and Being angry (1.3 percent).

The research asked 250 patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage to complete a questionnaire about exposure to 30 potential trigger factors in the period shortly before their event and their usual frequency and intensity of exposure to these triggers. They then assessed relative risk using a casecrossover design that determines if a specific event was triggered by something that happened just before it.

Vlak continues: “Reducing caffeine consumption or treating constipated patients with un-ruptured IAs with laxatives may lower the risk of subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Whether prescribing antihypertensive drugs to patients with un-ruptured IAs is beneficial in terms of preventing aneurysmal rupture still needs to be further investigated.” (medicalnewstoday.com)

‘Monstrously Big Ant’ Fossil Found in Wyoming ALMOST 50 million years ago, ants the size of hummingbirds roamed what is now Wyoming, a new fossil discovery reveals.

These giant bugs may have crossed an Arctic land bridge between Europe and North America during a particularly warm period in Earth’s history.

At about 2 inches (5 cm) long, the specimen is a “monstrously big ant,” said Bruce Archibald, a paleoentomologist at Simon Fraser University in British Columbia who reported the discovery on May third in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B. Though fossils of loose giant ant wings have been found before in the United States, this is the first known full-body specimen.

The fossil ant is from a wellknown fossil site in Wyoming called the Green River Formation, but it had been sitting in a drawer at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Archibald said. When a curator showed him the fossil, Archibald said, he knew he was looking at something exciting.

“I immediately recognized it and said, ‘Oh my god, this is a giant ant and it looks like it’s related to giant ants that are known from about this time in Germany.’”

One living ant species, Dorylus wilverthi, has queens that reach the size of this ancient ant, though Titanomyrma was big all over while D. wilverthi gets its size from an abnormally swollen abdomen, Archibald said.

Archibald dubbed the new ant Titanomyrma lubei -- “titan” for its size, “myrma” for the Greek,

A two-inch-long ant that once roamed Wyoming rivals today’s hummingbirds in size. (CREDIT: Bruce Archibald)

“myrmex,” or ant, and “lubei” for the fossil collector who discovered the specimen, Louis Lube. The burning question, however, was how giant ants ended up on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.

MONSTER ANT Ants are tough bugs -- some can even create rafts out of their own bodies to survive floods. But a look at modern

Sony data breach was camouflaged by anonymous DDoS attack Distributed denial of service attacks against Sony’s PlayStation Network and Qriocity music service masked the network intrusions and compromised 101 million user accounts.

Sony didn’t notice the security breaches that compromised user accounts on the PlayStation Network, Qriocity and Sony Online Entertainment because it was distracted by distributed denial of service attacks, the company said in a letter to Congress.

Several Sony divisions had been hit by a large-scale coordinated denial-of-service attack in early April from the Anonymous hacker collective protesting the company’s lawsuit against George Hotz, a PlayStation 3 hacker, Sony wrote in a letter to the United States House of Representatives on May 4. The combined effect of the DDoS attack

and the sophisticated methods used by the cyber-thieves made it difficult for Sony’s administrators to detect the data breach, according to the letter.

Sony disclosed on April 26 that thieves had stolen account information of up to 77 million users on the PlayStation Network and Qriocity. A week later, the company admitted on May 2 that the Sony Online Entertainment gaming service had also been breached, affecting an additional 24.6 million users. About 101 million user accounts have been compromised to date. The stolen data included names, addresses, email addresses, dates of birth. Some credit card information may have been stolen, but Sony claimed the numbers was securely saved as a cryptographic hash.

“Security teams were working very hard to defend against denial of service attacks, and that may have

made it more difficult to detect this intrusion quickly,” Sony Computer Entertainment chairman Kazuo Hirai wrote in the letter.

The cyber-criminals exploited a system software vulnerability to gain access into the network while Sony’s security teams were focused on deflecting the DDOS attacks, according to the letter. Forensics investigators determined the intruders used highly sophisticated and aggressive techniques to break in, hide their presence and escalate privileges inside the servers. "The intruders deleted log files in order to hide the extent of their work and activity within the network," the chairman wrote.

The House Committee on Energy and Commerce held a hearing on May 4 to address data theft and consumer impact. Sony declined to appear at the hearing, but sent an eight-page

letter detailing what had happened and what it was doing to resolve the issue to the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade.

“Whether those who participated in the denial of services attacks were conspirators or whether they were simply duped into providing cover for a very clever thief, we may never know,” Hirai wrote.

A segment of Anonymous launched Operation Sony on April 2 to protest Sony suing George Hotz for publishing code that lets users jailbreak the PlayStation 3. The case was settled out of court and George Hotz agreed to take down his site on April 11. Dissatisfied members declared April 16 a day of protest for Sony and organized a 24hour, in-store boycott at Sony stores around the world. A video message warned, “Prepare for the biggest attack you have ever witnessed, Anonymous style.”

large ants showed Archibald and his colleagues that T. lubei very likely needed a warm climate to live, similar to modern-day giant ants.

For instance, D. wilverthi lives in equatorial Africa. Other ants bigger than about an inch (3 cm) long are spread across tropical areas of South America, Southeast Asia and Australia.

Likewise, ancient giant ant fossils have been found in Europe in areas that were tropical during the early part of the Eocene, an epoch that lasted from 56 million to 34 million years ago, a time when the continents were closer together and the sea level was low: “You could have walked from Vancouver to London across dry land,” Archibald said.

But to cross the continents, you still had to traverse the Arctic. Back then, the Arctic was much warmer than it is today, a temperate zone rather than a winter wonderland.

AN OPEN ARCTIC FOR ANTS “Temperate” would have been too chilly for the giant ants, however.

The key to the ants’ march, Archibald and his colleagues found, were relatively brief periods in which temperature shot up enough to make the Arctic passable.

These periods, which lasted a few hundred thousand years each, may have been driven by the release of carbon dioxide from sediment. (livescience.com)

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Great Rate // ► $1 per word minimum 15 words ► $5 for additional graphic Fully furnished, ready to move in (3,000 sq feet) Ideal for a lawyer, accountant, doctor or architect Tel: 946-4664, 946-4894

for sale

Apartment for rent $850 per month One bedroom Richmond Hills Contact 946-4894

High quality decorative

curtain rails for sale 4 X 1.5m long plus 3 extendable rails 28-48 inches long Call 245 6620

1 BEDROOM FURNISHED $350.00 PER MONTH CONTACT 243-9119

Need Help Looking for that Perfect Apartment ?? Call 941-4100 or 2434921. We can assist in finding you Short or Long Term Rentals. Don’t see exactly what you’re looking to Rent. Contact us, we have others!!!

One Bedroom

Leeward Palms House 1 bath 1 bedroom Fully Furnished/ Washer & Dryer Asking Price $850 p/m

Wedding Gown for Sale Size 18W champagne & Beige wedding Dress.

Worn once in good condition Asking $800.00. Call 241-2000

realty

Professional Building For Rent

Good location, near NIB and Courts On Leeward Highway

May 7 - 13, 2011

Classifieds

Chalk Sound , Ocean View (Located Before Silly Creek Area) 1 bed 1.5 bath Fully Furnished/ Wrap around deck/ VerySpacious/Washer & Dryer Asking Price $1000 *********************** Royal Diamond Villa 1 bed 1 bath with Balcony Fully Furnished / Ready to Move-in Asking Price $1000 p/m *************************** The Venetian 1 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished/ Upstairs/ Downstairs unit/ Onsite Pool Asking Price: $1200 p/m **************************** GREAT DEAL !!!!

Leeward Palms 1 bed 1 bath duplex Fully Furnished /Washer Asking Price $1300 p/m ALL Utilities Included !!! ****************************** Venetian Road Apartment 1 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished/Very Spacious Asking Price $1250 p/m

(Slightly Negotiable) **************************** GRACEBAY STEAL!!!

Trade winds Condo Hotel, Gracebay 1 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished /Washer & Dryer/End Unit Facing Pool/ Asking Price $1200 p/m ************************** TWO BEDROOMS Chalk Sound, Water Front 2 Bed 2 Bath Fully Furnished REDUCED Asking Price $1700 p/m (Negotiable) ************************* Real Steal !!Leeward Palms 2 bedroom 2 baths Fully Furnished Asking Price $1100 p/m **************************** Chalk Sound, Ocean View (Located Before Silly Creek Area) 2 Bed 2 Bath Fully Furnished/Very Spacious/Wrap around Deck Asking Price $1650 p/m ****************************** Grace Bay Townhome -End Unit ( 3 minutes from IGA Gourmet) 2 bedrooms 2 ½ Bath/ Nicely Furnished/Screened Porch with Direct Pool Access Asking Price $ 2400 p/m Juba Sound Apartments Located in Lovely Living Environment!!

2 bed 2 bath Nicely Furnished Asking Price $1400 ************************** Grace Bay Condo Grandview 3rd Floor unit 3 bedroom 3 baths Nicely Furnished Call for More details !!! *************************** The Venetian 2 bedroom 2 bath Fully furnished / Fully Equipped Kitchen/Pool Asking Price $ 1800 p/m ************************** Sunview Town Homes, Grace Bay Road 2 Bed 2.5 Bath with Pool Asking Price $1,600/per month ************************* Long Bay Beach Front 2 bed 1 bath w/ Loft Fully Furnished/ Screened Deck facing Beach Asking $2000 p/m ***********************

Ocean Club Plaza, 2nd Floor Unit, Grace Bay 2 Bed 2.5 Bath, with Pool/Fully Equipped Kitchen Asking Price $2,000/per month ************************* Leeward Landings Townhome 2 bedroom 2 ½ bath Fully Furnished Asking Price $1600 ************************** Long Bay Apartments 2 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished/Washer & Dryer Asking Price $1200 p/m Three- Four Bedrooms ************************* MUST SEEE !!!! Beautiful Home Discovery Bay Canal Front Home 3 bedroom 2.5 bath Spacious Beautifully Furnished/ Fully Equipped kitchen /52” Plasma Televisions Asking Price $2300 p/m Negotiable ************************* Juba Sound Home 3 Bed 2.5 Bath Ocean View, Terrace, Asking Price $2200 REDUCED !! ************************* Low Cost Home, Blue Hills 3 Bed 2 Baths Furnished Central AC/ Washer & Dryer/Dishwasher Asking Price $1,350/per month ************************* Leeward Canal Front Home 4 bedrooms 3.5 baths Spacious/Nicely Furnished Asking Price $4000 p/m

ONE BEDROOM • Cooper Jack, Canal Front cottage, 1 bed, 1 bath, furnished, spectacular southern view, wrap around deck, small dock, loads of room, laundry area. Cistern water to manage cost.

Asking $800 per month negotiable.

• Richmond Hills apt. 1 Bed, 1 bath, washer/dryer, furnished, 2 available parking spots, landscaped. Centrally located Asking $1,000 per month TWO BEDROOM • Chalk Sound Water Front, 2 bed 2 bath, fully furnished with lots of space and storage. Asking $1,500 per month (negotiable) • Grace Bay Town Home, 2 bed 2.5 bath, 2 storey, fully furnished with washer and dryer, central a/c, screened porch and near to Grace Bay amenities. Asking $2,400 per month • Grace Bay, Sunview Town Homes, Two Storey, 2 bed 2.5 bath, Pool and BBQ area on site. Asking $1,600 per month (negotiable) • Longbay House with Loft (Minutes from the beach) 2 bedroom 2 baths Asking $1500 per month (slightly negotiable) THREE AND FOUR BEDROOM • Belglade Home, 3 bed 2 bath, nicely furnished, central a/c, washer and dryer. Asking $1,100 per month

ALTORACIA RESTAURANT

TIKI HUT

Bartender Is looking for a

To work $5.00 per hour. Must be able to work 6 days per week.

Contact 344-6072 6933

DOMESTIC WORKER contact 342-2884

Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

• Hawksbill Town Home, 3 bed 2.5 bath, nicely furnished, a/c, washer dryer, pool on site, parking spaces $2,200 per month • Leeward Home, Canal Front, Two Storey, Brand New, 4 bed 3.5 bath, Spacious and nicely furnished. Asking $4,000 per month. Contact us for possibly more options !!!!

Office: 941-4100 Carolina 231-4461, Natishka 243-4921

vehicles for sale Mac Motors

New Vehicles with Factory Warranty; 2009 FIAT 500 Sport BZ 1.2 2Dr Auto (Bossa Nova White) *248033* - 29,700. 2009 FIAT Panda Dynamic 1.2 Auto (New Orleans Blue) *323248* - 22,900. 2009 FIAT Grande Punto 1.4 Auto (Ambient White) *466162* - 26,500. 2009 FIAT Bravo Dynamic 1.4 Auto (Steel Grey) *196447* - 35,500. 2008 Land Rover Discovery III SE TDV6 (Keswick) *469067* - 68,000. 2008 Dodge Caliber SXT Sport App. 2.0L (Surf Blue) *599952* - 27,000. 2009 Dodge Journey SXT FWD 3.5L (Silver Steel) *535698* - 37,000. 2009 Dodge Durango 4x2 SLT 4.7L V8 (Silver) *703733* - 40,000. 2009 Jeep Patriot Sport 4x2 (White) *186265* - 32,000.

2009 Dodge Dakota SLT 4x4 (Deep Water Blue) *765339* - 35,000.

Certified used vehicles;

2006 Jaguar X-Type Estate Manual Trans, 2.0L Diesel, AVALABLE FOR LEASE - 39,000. 2006 Land Rover Freelander TD4 Atacama Sand 22,500. 2007 Dodge Ram Mega Cab 5.7L V8 4x4 Hemi (Red) Very LOW MILES!!! - 41,000. 2008 Dodge Ram Sport 1500 5.7L V8 Hemi 4x2 (Sunburst) - 36,500

Mac Motors

FULLY FRANCHISED DEALER FOR LAND ROVER, JAGUAR, DODGE, JEEP, CHRYSLER & FIAT SALES / WARRANTY* / SERVICE / DIAGNOSTICS / BODY REPAIRS FREE First Service with New Vehicles Finance available for qualified buyers *Land Rover / Jaguar : 3 Years Factory Warranty *Dodge / Jeep / Chrysler : 2 Years Factory Warranty *Used : 3 Months Warranty on 'Certified Used Vehicle’

for sale 10m 2010 Torch is for sale for $950.

The kite is in very good condition with only one small tear, which was repaired.

Also selling 130cm Momentum for $400.

It comes with new foot-pads and fins.

The board has some scrapes on the

bottom. Contact 342-2941

services Earn money now.

Sell Avon 346-1434 / 246-1434

The Flower Girl Bed and Bath Shop Bed and bath sets and Lingeries For more information, call us at 649-9464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com ******************************** We now accept Upholstery jobs.

Have your cushions re-covered at excellent prices Drape fabrics are also in stock For more information, call us at 6499464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@ yahoo.com The Flower Girl Bouquets, Mix and Tropical Arrangements for all occasions Price ranges from $15.00 and up For more information and reservation, call us at 649-9464894 or 6492313788, You may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com *********************** Easter Baskets and Easter Dresses available For more information, call us at 649-9464894 or 6492313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com ********************** Cards for all occasions, Gift Sets for men and women Designer Vases on display.

For more information, call us at 6499464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@ yahoo.com ************************ Fresh and Silk flower Arrangements available for centerpieces And decorations in all sizes ************************* Customized Gift Baskets for her and him…tell us what You want and we’ll do it for you! ************************* Decors and flowers for wedding from ceremony to Personal flowers and all through the reception ************************* Sympathy Wreath and Casket Sprays available in different sizes *************************** Inspirational Gift Items and baskets in different designs On display For more information, call us at 6499464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com

HI-GG’S RESTAURANT AND CAFÉ Is looking for a

Domestic Worker To work 5 days

Must be able to work 5 days per week.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Interested persons can

946-4664

SANDY POINT MARINA

6580

32

per week. Salary $7.00 per hour.

Contact 946-7092

6948

Maintenance Mechanic Air Condition Mechanic

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

WARD’S CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients Villa Del Mar and Southwind Millwork is looking to fill the following positions:

33

Senior sales person

Local Air Line now hiring for

Airport Customer Service position

Cabinet Maker Must be able to work 6 days per week salary $7.00 per hour.

• At least 5 years sales experience (mandatory) • At least 2 years sales experience with watches or jewelry (mandatory) • Remarkable teamwork skills • Excellent Service awareness • At least two impeccable references

In Providenciales, TCI. Experience required in the field.

Please submit Resume's to Luis.X.Rodriguez@Delta. com or call 649-941-5851"

CVs send to Fax 946-1183

Contact 343-9202

M.I.T Sales Person

CARIBBEAN PLACE OWNER’S ASSOCIATION Is looking for a

GARDENER

Domestic Worker

To work 5 days per. Salary $400.00 per week.

Must be able to work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

CONTACT (649) 941- 3082

Contact 241-3391

6954

CVs send to Fax 946-1183

NORTH CAICOS

ARDLEY FORBES Is looking for a

Is looking to hire a

(Manager in training)

• At least 7 years sales experience (mandatory) • At least 5 years sales experience with watches or jewelry (mandatory) • Managerial experience (mandatory) • Remarkable teamwork skills • Excellent Service awareness • Very good English and Spanish • At least two impeccable references

MORELINE FORBES

Labourer To work 4 days.

Salary $400.00 per month.

6968

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Contact 231-3698/ 247-3007

6953

May 7 - 13, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

SUNNY REEF LTD.

Is looking for a

To work 5 days per week.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 231-7901

2ToLaboUrers work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 941-7597

Candidate should possess a busy restaurant experience, be out-going and friendly, with a professional demeanor and must be fluent in English with excellent communication skills, be a team player with strong work ethic, available for work 0n weekends and holidays. Working hours flexible. Salary base on experience and qualifications.

SERVER

• 2 Years experience with Micro POS System and working at a busy restaurant in a lead position • Energetic and excellent customers service skills • Fluent in English, written and verbal • POS MICRO SYSTEM

On any island in the Turks & Caicos at $10,000 per acre, or $400,000 total. Can be marsh or wetland and remote.

Please contact Nina Siegenthaler at Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty at nina@ tcsothebysrealty.com or 649 231 0707

Domestic Worker Required 6 days weekly. Wages $200 per week. The Successful applicant must have good knowledge of all housekeeping work including cooking as well as child care.

For an interview or appointment phone Sandy Lightbourne at 231-1092.

Resumes and references required. Applications would be considered from Blongers only and must be received by 13th May, 2011.

6934

Lorna Lightbourne Is looking for a

Domestic Worker To work 5 days per week.

Salary $175.00 per week.

Contact 241-4721

• 4 years experience in busy restaurant • Must be able body and energetic, fluent in English, Spanish and verbal .

• Must be able to cook French cuisine • Working hours 6 days a week.

KITCHEN HELPER

• 4 years in a busy kitchen, must be able to work under pressure.

• Fluent in English oral and verbal • Must have knowledge of Asian and basic prep food.

• Must be able to work 6days a week.

• Must be able to work in a busy restaurant and follow instruction • Heavy duty kitchen ware to wash • Must speak and write English • Knowledge of basic kitchen operation

Human Resource Manager. PO.Box 811, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

Looking for 40 acres of land

POSITION AVAILABLE -30TH JUNE, 2011

COOK

JOCELYNE CADET DECIUS Is seeking a

Labourer Salary $5.00 per hour. To keep house while owner is off island.

Must be able to do general cleaning. Must be trustworthy and reliable. Must be able to work independently. Must be willing to work flexible hours

Deadline for applications is May 14th, 2011

Contact 241-0777

LUCHIANO LAWRANCE

Gardener/ Handyman/ Labourer Required

Daily duties include raking, cleaning, small repairs, gardening, painting, etc must have valid driver’s license. Belongers need only apply. Hourly rate is $6 per hour.

Contact John at 941-4634 or fax to 941-4664

6945

SAURICIO MILLS

Labourer Labourer Is looking to hire a

Is looking for a

To work 5 days per week. Salary $40.00 per day.

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

Contact 241-4302

Contact 241-2369

P & A CONSULTANCY Is currently seeking qualified applicant to fill the following positions on behalf of our clients:

3 Domestic Workers

– salary $5.50 per hour

3 Labourers – salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact 941-7597

6935

Labourer On behalf of our client is looking to employ

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

RANSCUIT MISSICK

P & A AGENCY

May 7 - 13, 2011

Sail Provo

Luewell Construction

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Domestic Worker To work 5 days

License Captain To sail their 52 inch Catamaran with 10 plus years experience in day charter excursions.

per week salary $5.00 per week.

Contact 242-8026

Interested person 6947

Contact 946-4783

6932

34

May 7 - 13, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Due to circumstances beyond our control...

ROTARY BINGO has moved to the

Cactus Bar & Grill

in the Bight across from Tropicana Doors open at 7:00 pm

ALL CASH PRIZES!!!

PROGRESSIVE JACKPOT NOW

OVER $6,400 (JACKPOT PAID BY CHEQUE)

Food and drinks available

35

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION Pursuant to the provisions of the Registered Land Ordinance, British Caribbean Bank Limited, Governor’s Road, Leeward, Providenciales HEREBY GIVES NOTICE that it will cause to be sold by public auction the following properties:

TITLE DESCRIPTION REGISTERED PROPRIETOR 60902/123 Leeward Going Through Providenciales

May 7 - 13, 2011

2350 sq ft; 3 bedroom; 3.5 bath Canal home with 147' of canal frontage. An elevated front porch leads to a spacious living area. Master bedroom with walk-in closet. Both guest rooms conveniently contain their own en- suite bathrooms. Pool and covered garage with landscaped garden.

Rubylion Ltd

The auction will be held on Monday 16th May, 2011 at 10:00am at the offices of the British Caribbean Bank Limited, Governor’s Road, Leeward, Providenciales. Conditions of sale may be obtained from the British Caribbean Bank Limited and further inquiries may be directed to the Risk Management Unit @ 1-649-941-5028 ext 302.

ALL SALES ARE SUBJECT TO RESERVE; 10% DEPOSIT REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY AFTER SUCCESSFUL BID.

Notice Of Sale

By Public Auction Meridian Mortgage Corporation Ltd. as Chargee, pursuant to its charge and the Registered Land Ordinance, hereby gives notice that it will cause to be sold the property listed below by Public Auction, to be held at the office of Meridian Trust Company, Caribbean Place, and Providenciales at 10.00 a.m. on Tuesday 24th of May, 2011.

Location

50500/95, Whitby, North Caicos. 6.39 acres of beachfront land to the west of the St Charles resort on Whitby Beach, North Caicos. The subject property enjoys approximately 383 linear foot of beachfront. Suitable for commercial development. A reserve price will be fixed for the auction.

Title

Absolute

Proprietor

Sail Rock Point Ltd

Approximate Area

6.39 acres

Location

50102/99, 100, 101, Sandy Point, North Caicos. Three adjoining 5 acre beachfront parcels of undeveloped land on the beautiful Sandy Point Beach, North Caicos. Close to North Caicos Marina. Stunning north shore views over the coral reef. Suitable for commercial development. A reserve price will be fixed for the auction.

Title

Absolute

Proprietor

Caicos Platinum Company Ltd

Approximate Area

15 acres (divided into 3 x 5 acre lots)

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION ARE AVAILABLE BY REQUEST, FROM MERIDIAN TRUST COMPANY LTD. Meridian House P.O. Box 599, Caribbean Place Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, B.W.I Tel. (649) 941-3082 Fax (649) 941-3223

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

ASIKK EMPLOYMENT SERVICES On behalf of its clients Pauline’s Tuff Shop (NC)

BAY BISTRO Is looking for a

(1) Experience COOK

To run small restaurant in North. Working 40 hours per week Salary $8.00 per hour and must be hard working and willing to start work early mornings. Contact 2429122 between 11am and 4pm TCI Woodwork (Pls)

Domestic

must have strong experience in making cabinets. This candidate need to be expert with their hands, familiar with various tools and machines, also adept at finishsanding, staining, sealing wood into a polished product. Salary $9.00 per hour. Contact 242-9122 between 11am and 4pm

per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact 231-2510

(1) Cabinet Maker

6960

Worker To work 5 days 6964

CHRIST IS THE ANSWER MINISTRY Is seeking a

Maintenance

Manager Salary $8.00 per hour

email:christistheanswerministry@hotmail.com closing date: May 18th, 2011

NOTICE I, Laura Ainsley Miller (single) of 3, One Loft, Providenciales, intend to marry Craig (no middle name) McNeil (single) of 3, One Loft, Providenciales, at Pallanza Town Hall, Italy on September 7th 2011. Any person knowing of any lawful impediment to the marriage should without delay notify:British Consulate- General, PO box N7516, Nassau / Paradise Island, Bahamas (British High Commission).

IONA FORBES Is looking for a

Domestic

Worker To work 4 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 244-0706

6952

36

May 7 - 13, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

37 FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Labourer

KPW CONSTRUCTION

needed

Is looking for a

Seasoned Laborer/ Mason Salary $5.50 per hour

DOLPHINS SPORTS BAR AND GILL/ CARIBBEAN CAFÉ

LABOURER

is looking for

2salary Cashiers $6.00per hour

Needed to work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

To work 5 days a week including holidays Salary is commensurate with experience

6 Waitresses Salary $6.00 per hour

CONTACT 946-5300

Please call 649-231-6364

6970

Belonger only need apply for above positions

Contact: 343-0812

PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LTD. requires TWO (2) Experienced

CONTACT 946-5300 6969

Apply to joseph.p.connolly@tc.pwc.com or fax: 649946-4892 no later than June 8th, 2011 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

6971

6972

SECURE SERVICES LIMITED Is looking for a

SEEKS

SHARMAE STUBBS is looking for a

Security

Guard

Sales and Marketing Assistant

To work 40 hours per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.

To work in a radio station To work 5 days a week including holidays Salary is commensurate with experience.

Interested persons should be dependable and send applications via fax at (649) 941-4034 C/o Alliance Realty Ltd.

By May 19th, 2011 salary negotiable

For Audit Senior role. Experience in audit required. Salary range: $40,000 - $50,000 per annum

PRITON DEVELOPMENT LTD.

• Must have at least 3 years experience and be able to work with little supervision. Salary start at $5.50 an hour and is based on experience.

• Deadline for applications is May 18th 2011.

• Must be able to work on holidays, must be able and willing to lead a large construction team.

• Salary is based on experience

Contact 241-4075

To work 5 days a week including holidays Salary is commensurate with experience

ACA, ACCA, CPA or ACMA

With 10 years experiences in supervisory position, planning and reviewing audit assignments/ staff, detail knowledge of IFRS and applicable audit principles.

Qualifications: ACA, ACCA, CPA or ACMA Salary Range: $75,000 - $100,000 per annum

(5)Carpenters (5)Laborers (5)Masons

To work Monday thru Friday 8am – 4pm.

PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LTD. requires FOUR (4) qualified

Audit Managers Apply to joseph.p.connolly@tc.pwc.com or fax: 649-946-4892 no later than June 8th, 2011 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

Sales Agent

Contact 941-7233

CONTACT 946-5300

6961

STEPHEN WALKIN Is looking to hire a

Labourer To work 6 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.

6950

General Labourer

Contact 341-4192

6959

THOMAS EWING Is looking for a

Labourer Labourer To work 5 days per week.

Salary $7.50 per hour.

Contact 231-6626

To work 4 days per week.

Salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact 347-7106

6951

38

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports International

May 7 - 13, 2011

Ronaldo: Referee didn’t let Real win CRISTIANO Ronaldo has claimed the referee “didn’t let” his Real Madrid team win Tuesday’s European Champions League semifinal second leg against archrivals Barcelona.

Real could only draw 1-1 at the Camp Nou, losing 3-1 on aggregate after last week’s controversial 2-0 defeat to Barca in Madrid which left both clubs facing charges from ruling body UEFA. It was the two teams’ fourth meeting in 18 days -- clashes known as “El Clasico” -- and tensions between the clubs have become strained in that period, with allegations of foul play and racism being made.

There was further controversy on Tuesday, when Real saw a 48thminute goal from Argentina forward Gonzalo Higuain ruled out by referee Frank de Bleeckere after Ronaldo was adjudged to have fouled Javier Mascherano.

“Once again it was the referee that didn’t allow us to dictate the outcome,” Ronaldo, who became the world’s most

G & S CONSTRUCTION Is looking to fill the following positions:

Secretary – salary $5.00 per hour

Mason

– salary $8.00 per hour

Must be able to work Monday thru Friday

Contact 241-2962

expensive player when he moved to the Bernabeu from Manchester United in 2009, told Real’s official website.

“We knew we could beat Barca, but the referee didn’t let us. Higuain’s goal was good.

Pique pushed me and I landed on Mascherano. He didn’t used to fall to the ground in England, but he’s picked up the bad habit of doing it here like everyone else.”

Josep Guardiola’s Barca took the lead on the night when Spain forward Pedro coolly converted after a pass from compatriot Andres Iniesta on 54 minutes.

Real, without head coach Jose Mourinho after he was sent to the stands in the first leg, equalised through Brazil’s Marcelo in the 65th minute following a shot from Angel Di Maria that rattled the post.

Los Blancos were left frustrated after last week’s first leg, when they felt Portugal defender Pepe was wrongly dismissed for a challenge on Dani Alves.

“The referee in the first match took away our chances

Cristiano Ronaldo cuts a forlorn figure as Real Madrid are eliminated from the Champions League by archrivals Barcelona.

of playing the final,” Pepe’s fellow Portugal international Ronaldo said.

“Whoever knows anything about football knows that Barcelona get preferential treatment. We knew something would happen. We knew that if we scored a goal that everything would be done to keep us from going through.

“This isn’t good for football. We should just stay home and allow Barcelona to play alone if things don’t

change.”

Guardiola has guided the Catalan club to the second final in Europe’s premier club competition under his stewardship and a third in five years.

Barca secured the first of three Champions League triumphs at London’s Wembley Stadium in 1992, a match Guardiola played in, and will return to the rebuilt venue for the May 28 showpiece. (CNN)

Djokovic claims Belgrade title to extend winning run WORLD NUMBER two Novak Djokovic extended his winning run in 2011 to 27 matches with a 7-6 6-2 win over Spain’s Feliciano Lopez to win the Serbia Open in Belgrade Sunday.

It was top seed and home favourite Djokovic’s fifth title of the year after his wins at the Australian Open, Dubai, Indian Wells and Miami.

The 23-year-old Djokovic is now two wins away from equalling Ivan Lendl’s record of a 29-0 winning season start, set in 1986.

Rain interrupted the final twice with Djokovic battling it out on home clay for 73 minutes before wrapping up the first set on a tiebreak.

The start of the second set was also delayed by rain before Djokovic secured a pair of breaks to wrap up victory.

His last defeat came against Roger Federer in the semifinals of the ATP World Tour Finals last November and he closed out 2010 by leading Serbia to the victory in the Davis Cup final on home soil against France.

Djokovic is firmly focused on toppling Rafael Nadal as world number one this season.

“I need to stay healthy and I need to stay fit in order to play well. The winning streak is something I don’t really think about,” he told the official ATP Tour website.

“I am flattered that people compare me to the greats, like Lendl, (John) McEnroe, (Roger) Federer, Nadal -- guys who have made history on the tennis court. But I have some other goals to achieve this year.

Chicago Bulls’ Derrick Rose holds the Maurice Podoloff Trophy as the winner of 2010-11 Kia NBA’s Most Valuable Player award.

Stern calls MVP Rose a “role model” NBA COMMISSIONER David Stern joined the chorus of Derrick Rose admirers Wednesday night, calling him “a role model to all,” before presenting him with the league’s Most Valuable Player award before Game Two of the Chicago Bulls’ secondround series with the Atlanta Hawks.

“He couldn’t be better,” Stern said. “He’s the whole package. He has a family that watched out for him and he made it through difficult times and he’s very valuable, not just to the league but to his teammates. ... It’s very exciting.

“He’s a very nice, grounded young man and it’s a pleasure to have him here.”

To a rousing pregame ovation, Rose thanked the fans. “This is for the city of Chicago more than anything,” he said.

Asked if Rose could one day serve as “the face of the league” much like the Bulls’ last MVP, Michael Jordan, and

Stern said he hoped so, but added that he would hope the same for “many players.”

“I’m not going to be like one of those journalists who starts doing colour commentary and then becomes a basketball expert,” he said. “I’ve only been doing this for 40 years and I’m not expert enough to tell you about potential.

“I do know that he is the youngest MVP, that he deserves the award that he’s getting tonight. He had a heck of a season, he brought his team with him and he’s a great teammate. So you can check it all off. He’s a heck of a player and I think if we can keep him healthy, he’s going to have some career and there are a lot of other players who would like to not have him get this trophy next year.

“And that’s a wonderful thing because you could probably name four or five of them off the top of your head and that’s why this league is doing so well right now.”

(ESPN)

6956

acting on behalf of our clients P.J Barber Shop, Coral Gardens and Jared Fulton is looking to fill the following positions:-

One Live-in Nanny

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WARD’S CONSULTANCY

May 7 - 13, 2011

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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Gibson (right) was the beneficiary of some poor goalkeeping by Neuer

United and Barca in Champions League final Manny Pacquiao dreams of eradicating poverty in homeland of the Philippines

Pacquiao says biggest fight is to eradicate poverty in Philippines LAS VEGAS – Manny Pacquiao will undertake the latest step in his bid to join boxing’s immortals wearing an unusual – and distinctive – piece of equipment.

Pacquiao will use a pair of bright yellow boxing gloves when he faces Shane Mosley at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Saturday as part of his attempt to highlight and eradicate poverty in his homeland of the Philippines.

The 32-year-old also has urged all of his followers to wear yellow clothing for the bout, which he hopes will have the effect of instigating a “team sports” environment among the sold-out crowd of around 16,700.

“The biggest fight in my life is how to end poverty in my country,” said Pacquiao in a media conference Wednesday. “This Saturday I will wear yellow gloves as a symbol of hope and poverty. And I would like to invite you all to wear yellow. We have to be united.”

Pacquiao is an iconic figure in his homeland, where he was elected congressman for the Sarangani region last year. Part of his campaign manifesto was to improve the plight of his nation’s poor, and he is a firm supporter of the Gawad Kalinga charity, which has built 50,000 homes in repressed areas.

His status as boxing’s biggest draw will bring much-needed publicity to the cause, with promoter Bob Arum confidently predicting up to three million pay-per-view buys in the United States alone.

The yellow theme could make for a spectacular visual scene in Las Vegas, with most of the crowd

expected to comprise Pacquiao fans, many of whom will make their way from various parts of the U.S. as well as a healthy contingent flying in from Asia.

“It will make my heart happy to see yellow colours in the crowd,” said Pacquiao. “It will be a beautiful and special thing for everyone to unite in this way, with boxing, and hope and charity. It will be like everyone is supporting a team, like in basketball.”

Mosley is expected to wear red gloves as per usual in his bid to cause what his advisor James Prince admits would be the “biggest upset in the history of boxing.”

At 39 years old and with a defeat to Floyd Mayweather Jr. and a draw with Sergio Mora is his past two outings, Mosley is a rank outsider.

Few observers believe Pacquiao is capable of losing to anyone on the planet, except possibly Mayweather.

Pacquiao is refusing to take Mosley lightly.

“I never underestimate him,” said Pacquiao. “He moves like he is 31 or 32, has good hand speed and foot speed, and he is strong. It is advantage for him too, because he knocked [Antonio] Margarito out.”

Pacquiao’s fight with Margarito in November went the distance but resulted in a resounding points victory for the champ.

Trainer Freddie Roach insisted his fighter’s intensity in training has been “better than ever,” and although Pacquiao is showing his charitable nature with his gloves’ color, he won’t extend the same virtue with their use. (Yahoosports)

MANCHESTER United completed the formalities of victory against Schalke 04 to reach Wembley and set up another Champions League final confrontation with Barcelona.

United, holding a two-goal lead from the first leg of the semi-final in Germany, were never in danger of surrendering their advantage at Old Trafford and ran out comfortable winners - presenting the possibility of revenge for their defeat at the hands of Barca boss Pep Guardiola and his side in the 2009 final in Rome.

Red Devils manager Sir Alex Ferguson revealed that he suffered a sleepless night pondering a team selection that showed eight changes from the 1-0 defeat at Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday, with Wayne Rooney not even on the bench, but his decision was vindicated by an emphatic victory margin that allowed United to ease into their third final in four years.

Antonio Valencia and Darron Gibson scored twice in five minutes in the first half as the Premier League side faced only token resistance from their Bundesliga opponents, who shocked holders Inter Milan in the quarter-final.

And, even though Jose Manuel Jurado pulled a goal back for the visitors before the interval, it was never more than a minor interruption to a night of Old Trafford celebration.

Brazilian midfielder Anderson underlined United’s domination of Schalke by scoring twice late on as a weakened line-up still proved all too much for the Champions League’s surprise package this season.

Now Ferguson must turn his attention to claiming United’s record 19th domestic title - but also devising a plan to ensure the torture his team suffered on what he called Barcelona’s passing “carousel” is not repeated at Wembley on 28 May. Ferguson insists he has always known what went wrong on that

balmy Rome night two years ago, now he has the perfect chance to prove his theory at the scene of United’s first win in Europe’s elite tournament against Benfica in 1968.

Barcelona’s first win in the competition also came at Wembley against Sampdoria in 1992 and Guardiola will be hoping the Catalan giants can replicate the Lionel Messi-inspired stranglehold that they exerted over United when they last met.

It was a special night for Gibson, who was recently forced to abandon his venture on to Twitter after only 97 minutes following a torrent of criticism, vitriol he answered in some style as Ferguson’s men took charge early on.

He was the creator with an inviting pass that set Valencia free on the angle of the penalty area. The winger then showed great composure to beat the advancing Schalke goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and lift what had been a subdued atmosphere inside Old Trafford, the lack of tension reflected in the mood of the crowd.

Gibson turned from creator to goalscorer five minutes later to double United’s lead on the night and end any serious doubts about them reaching Wembley.

It was nightmare moment for

Neuer, peerless in keeping United at bay almost single-handedly eight days ago. Gibson’s shot carried power but was directed straight at the keeper, who somehow allowed the strike to fumble through his grasp and into the net.

Schalke at least responded with a measure of spirit and pulled a goal back after 35 minutes when Jurado took advantage of space and time inside the area to fire high past United keeper Edwin van der Sar at the Stretford End. It was the signal for the outbreak of ugly scenes among the visiting supporters, who clashed with stewards high behind one goal, with flares set alight and bottles thrown, but fortunately order was swifly restored.

The Red Devils had mixed moments of defensive uncertainty with attacking threat, assisted by an uncharacteristically uncertain performance from Germany’s muchcoveted keeper Neuer, who was out of sorts virtually from the start.

He redeemed himself with a fine stretching save from Anderson early in the second half, but the midfield man won their next personal battle as United sealed the victory and ensured the party could start inside Old Trafford. (BBC)

Flower remains England cricket team director Andy Flower has signed a new contract to remain as England team director.

The former Zimbabwe captain, 43, took over from Peter Moores in January 2009 and has since overseen successive Ashes series victories over Australia.

“I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to build on

the considerable progress we have made to date as a squad,” he said.

He has accepted a fresh staff contract with the England and Wales Cricket Board, rather than a fixed-term deal.

Flower had been India’s first choice as their new coach before they appointed Duncan Fletcher in April.

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May 7 - 13, 2011

Warner re-elected president as CONCACAF celebrates 50th anniversary JACK WARNER was unanimously re-elected as President of CONCACAF this week at the Confederation’s 27th Ordinary Congress in Miami. Warner, a FIFA Vice President, ran unopposed and has returned for his sixth-consecutive term.

The Congress was part of the Confederation’s year-long 50th anniversary celebration and featured the presence of FIFA President Sepp Blatter who has attended every CONCACAF Congress over the past twenty years.

“I am honoured to have been entrusted to lead this Confederation for another four years, particularly during our 50th Anniversary year” said the Trinidadian Warner who has been president since 1990. “We are certain that the next fifty years will be even more successful for CONCACAF.” In other CONCACAF elections, Lisle Austin of Barbados and Mexican Football Federation President Justino Compean were elected to the position of CONCACAF Vice-President from the Caribbean and North American

Jack Warner returns for another four years at the head of CONCACAF

zones, respectively.

Ariel Alvarado of Panama was also re-elected to the Executive Committee as member from the Central America.

Guatemala’s Rafael Salguero will retain his seat on the FIFA Executive Committee as the Central American zone member.

The CONCACAF Executive Committee Report was delivered to the member associations as part of the Congress proceedings. The

report outlined the Confederation’s activities since the last Congress including competitions, development programmes and commercial operations. The Confederation’s annual financial statements, which detailed CONCACAF’s solid financial standing, were also presented.

On Sunday, the CONCACAF Executive Committee approved expansion of its ranks with the inclusion of three non-voting seats.

The positions were filled by Guyana’s Colin Klass, Vice President of the Caribbean Football Union; Guillermo Cañedo of Mexico, a former Confederation Vice President; and Canadian women’s national team coach Carolina Morace who will represent the interests of women’s football.

“The three members will offer unique perspectives and contributions quickly thanks to their varied experiences,” said Warner.

CONCACAF also announced that its Fiftieth Anniversary celebration will be held the on June 24, the day before the 2011 Gold Cup final in Pasadena, California. (CONCACAF)

Bermuda defeated Bahamas 13 to 10 in their Caribbean Championships game at the National Sports Center Saturday. (Photo by Glenn Tucker)

NACRA Caribbean Championships:

Jamaican sprinters, Felix star at Penn Relays Bermuda edge ASAFA POWELL helped Jamaica defend the men’s 4x100m crown while Allyson Felix aided two US women’s triumphs in Saturday’s “ USA Versus the World” events at the 117th Penn Relays.

More than 180 athletes from 16 nations took part but Jamaica’s men and America’s women shined brightest at Franklin Field.

Powell, Michael Frater, Nesta Carter and anchor Steve Mullings won the 4x100m relay in 38.33 seconds, .10 ahead of USA Red’s Walter Dix, Wallace Spearmon, Trell Krimmons and Mike Rodgers.

Powell, Carter and Frater joined world record-holder Usain Bolt in setting the world 4x100 record of 37.10 in 2008. Only Bolt was part of the Jamaican squad that won the 2010 Penn Relays in 37.90, Bolt with an 8.79 anchor leg.

The other trio from the world record run joined Mullings, who owns the season’s best 100m time of 9.90 seconds, in defending the title.

USA Blue’s Justin Gatlin, Darvis Patton, Shawn Crawford and Ivory Williams came third in 38.66.

Felix and Carmelita Jeter helped extend the US women’s 4x100m win streak to seven years, sparking USA Red to victory in a meet-record 42.28 with USA Blue second in 42.64.

Jamaica was third in 42.74 with a lineup that included Olympic and world champion Shelly-Ann Fraser and Olympic medalists Kerron Stewart and Sherone Simpson.

past the Bahamas

Asafa Powell helps Jamaica to 4X100M victory.

Lauryn Williams ran the USA Red opening leg, then passed to Felix, who has been on the past five winning foursomes in the event.

She handed off to Marshavet Myers, who delivered the baton for the anhcor leg to Jeter, the 2011 100m world leader who has helped win the event three years in a row.

Felix also helped the US women to an 11th 4x400m relay title in 12 tries against global rivals at the Penn Relays, joining Sanya Richards-Ross in claiming their fifth 4x400 Penn title in the US-World format.

Richards-Ross ran the fastest anchor leg in 51.18 to bring home the

crown for a team that also featured opener Debbie Dunn, second-leg Felix and Natasha Hastings. USA Blue was second in 3:23.17 with Jamaica third in 3:23.82.

US 400 hurdles stars Bershawn Jackson and Angelo Taylor rank the final two legs for the triumphant US 4x400 relay, joining opener Quentin Summers and Jamal Torrence to win for USA Red in 3:02.40.

Taylor’s anchor leg of 45.49 seconds was only fourth-best but still enough to give the Americans the victory over Chris Brown-anchored Bahamas by .39 of a second with Grenada third in 3:04.69.

Bermuda opened their NACRA Caribbean Championships campaign with a hard-fought win over battling Bahamas at the National Sports Centre on Saturday.

Having not hosted a Test match in more than a decade, the Island’s rugby fraternity turned out in force to cheer on Bermuda although it was the visitors who did the early celebrating following Shawn Kemp’s opening try which Kacey Charlton converted.

Their lead was short-lived, however, with Bermuda hitting back through the boot of Greg Fraser with a penalty kick, before Conor McGlynn darted over the line for a try which Fraser converted to nudge the hosts ahead.

After the interval, Bermuda continued to enjoy plenty of possession but were largely lacking in penetration against a resolute Bahamas side who refused to budge an inch all afternoon.

They hauled themselves on level terms with a Duran Beadle penalty and were looking good value for a share of the spoils before Bermuda snatched victory with another Fraser penalty kick five minutes from time.

Lawrence Bird, the Bermuda coach, described the win as “too close of comfort” and admitted his team must improve before playing the winners of Mexico and Cayman

Islands.

“We had a lot of possession, a lot of territory which we didn’t convert but Bahamas always come out hard at you and try and knock you off the game,” said Bird. “The breakdowns were a bit of a lottery so they were getting away with a few things that they shouldn’t have got away with.

“They were probably a little unfortunate not too beat us, so we have a lot of work to do. We didn’t have any real penetration and we weren’t getting to the breakdowns quick enough in enough numbers, but we will work on that going forward.”

Playing in front of home supporters would have been a new experience for Bird’s team, having spent the past decade travelling around the Caribbean and South America, and the coach said he was pleased with how they handled the added pressure. “When you’re at home everyone expects you to win.

I expected us to win but I wanted us to rack up a whole lot more points,” Bird said. “We have to play away next but we’re used to playing away, that’s nothing new for us. It was our first home game for a very long time and it was important we didn’t get carried away with the occasion, and I felt we did that fairly well.”

May 7 - 13, 2011

Sports National

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Bahamas hires former USA player as cricket coach FORMER USA player and Under-19 coach Reggie Benjamin has accepted a coaching and development role with the Bahamas. Benjamin will oversee all youth development in the Bahamas in addition to coaching duties beginning this week.

“I expect to see the senior nationals and the Under-19 team performing much better abroad because we hope that besides doing the youth that he’ll bring some professional level of coaching to the senior and the Under-19 teams,” Bahamas Cricket Manager, Greg Taylor Sr., told ESPNcricinfo on Friday.

The 50-year-old Benjamin had been splitting time between southern California and his native Antigua. He was the highest certified coach living in the United States with an ECB Level Three certificate but is excited to have a fresh opportunity and be able to implement a vision for developing a sustainable pipeline of local talent within the Bahamas. “[Bahamas] can see progress for the future instead of just depending on and hope somebody from Guyana comes, lives there long enough and can play for the team,” Benjamin said, making reference to his disappointment with USA’s lack of commitment to a proper development programme. “It’s just not going to work that way for very much longer. I get to basically apply a true development program and coach players from all aspects of the game, from the physical, mental, lifestyle, everything.

That’s one aspect that I’m truly excited about.

“No team is going to survive depending on expats to come and a lot of America’s teams will face that problem eventually. You have to develop your talent.”

Benjamin served as head coach for the USA Under-19 team in 2003 and most recently as an assistant coach with the USA U-19 team that went to the 2010 Under-19 World Cup in New Zealand. He also served as head coach for South West Region teams at USACA tournaments and had a solid career playing for the United States as a fast bowler, competing in three ICC Trophy events for USA’s senior team in 1990, 1994 and 1997.

While Benjamin’s departure is a blow to the talent he coached in the southern California area and across the USA, he hopes to use his

connections in America to create a mutually beneficial relationship between USA and the Bahamas.

The first part of that is getting more consistent fixtures, something he feels will aid development as both countries suffer from not playing enough matches at an elite level.

“We can’t depend on the ICC to do one or two tournaments a year and call that development.

That’s not development,” Benjamin said. Bahamas were relegated from ICC Americas Division One after finishing at the bottom of the tournament in Bermuda last May and June. In November, the Bahamas finished last in the eight-team ICC World Cricket League Division Eight tournament in Kuwait.

In early April, the Bahamas competed in the ICC Americas Division Two Twenty20 championship, where they finished in fifth place. They have no more international fixtures scheduled at the senior level until at least 2012.

Benjamin says that in order to help reverse the downward trend, more opportunities are needed to play.

“You have to have more competition in order for players to get better,” Benjamin said. “It doesn’t make any sense that Bahamas will play the US one time every two years or play Canada.” Because the Bahamas are only an hour’s flight away from south Florida, Benjamin hopes more effort will be made into facilitating an on-field relationship between the countries.

“We have to look into the possibility that Bahamas can play the US at senior level maybe three or four times a year, junior level about the same because we’re that close,” Benjamin said. “We’re not going to get better with this one tournament a year. It’s just not gonna happen. I know finance is an issue, but with proper planning and sponsorship it can be done.”

Benjamin is eager to start working with the Bahamas and believes that his focus on youth will lead to success at the senior level as well as overall development in the country.

“I have a few players, but one player that I know is a very dangerous player, Marc Taylor, a left handed opening bat,” Benjamin said. “The team that I’m building is a young based team, a real young, energetic team. They’re gonna learn fast, they’re gonna learn correctly.” (espncricinfo)

Judith Robinson, left, who plays softball at a national level, poses with her 2010 champion team Silver Deep.

Josh for Sports

The amazing Judith Robinson JUDITH Robinson was born in Grand Turk in 1968.

Her father is John (Porky) Robinson of Grand Turk and her mother is Leila Fullford of SC. Judith is the third of four children.

EDUCATION TC High School (aka HJ Robinson) -Business College in Grand Turk (two years) -GC Foster College of Physical Education Sports in Jamaica (Associate Degree in Physical Education) UCLA 87-88 certificate in Sports Medicine

SPECIAL COURSES Level I-IV IAAF (only Turks and Caicos Islander at this level) IAAF [ International Association of Athletics Federation] Certificate: lecturer in kids’ athletics (lone TC Islander to lecture ) IAAF Meet Manager/Director Course FIBA Certificate [Federation of International Basketball] basketball coach Level one FIFA [Federation International Football Association] football coach Level one rugby coach Certified Test Judge [Fitness and Bodybuilding] Certified First Aid Instructor

Career in sports: Judith began sports in 1979 in primary school with track and field.

She was motivated by her father with whom she would go jogging.

She also participated in basketball;

in fact she won every track event in Primary school.

While in high school Judith dominated in the 100M, 200M, javelin, discus, high jump and long jump as well as shot put.

Again she was always Victrix Ludorum throughout high school. She also played basketball, volleyball and lawn tennis.

ON THE INTERNATIONAL MARK She competed at CARIFTA in 19821985 (100M, 200M, shot put and long jump) She reached finals in numerous events and in the long jump and the shot put she placed fourth in 1982.

In the Miami Classics of 1986 Judith broke the TCI record with a javelin throw of 113 feet.

She also competed in the Florida Relays where she placed fifth in the 200M.

WORLD GAMES Judith was the first female TCI athlete to compete at the World Games.

In 1988 Judith ran the fastest time of her life for the 100M. This was the same semi-final with Florence Joyner Kersee in which Flo-Jo smashed the world record with a run of 10.67s.

In the finals Flo Jo powered her way to the impossible record of 10.49s.

Judith further participated in the World Games in China in the 100M. She however, sustained a knee injury and had to undergo constructive knee surgery.

By Joshua Gardiner Especially because of her injury, Judith concentrated on her coaching and throughout the years has had tremendous success. She has coached national teams (both male and female) in various sporting disciplines such as track and field, volleyball, softball and basketball.

PANTHERS SPORTS CLUB Judith is the founding director, coach and president of the Panthers Sports Club organisation which participate in national track and field and basketball events.

Some of her outstanding protégée are Roshano Cox, Kareem Caley, Teray Smith and Judith Delancy among numerous others.

OUTLOOK The Senior Sports Development Officer, Judith, foresees the primary school as being the base for the future. For, as she says, by the time they (the athletes) reach high school, you don’t have to caress them to participate in sports.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

May 7 - 13, 2011

Sports National TCIFA Women’s Beach Soccer League:

Wins for Soccer Ballers and the Predators BOTH THE Beach Soccer Ballers and the Caribbean Predators continued their winning ways in the TCIFA’s Women’s Beach Soccer League last weekend, although they were hard-pushed by their oppositions.

In the opening game the Predators outscored the All-Star Shrimps 10-6. Kadine Delphin led the way for the Predators with seven goals andSimone Smith added three.

Gillian Vernice (2) and Tina Hinds (4) scored for the Shrimps. Delphin is one of the most exciting players in the league and with her captain Pekiera Brooks injured she took control and comfortably led her team to victory.

In the second game the Beach Soccer Ballers were pushed all the way by the New Wave Warriors, but managed to edge ahead for a 6-5 win which kept them at the top of the league.

Sarah Cenary scored all of her team’s goals but Gaya Smith (3) and Rebecca Castillo (2) almost gave the Warriors the win, which would have pushed them closer to the league leaders. As it stands both

Sarah Cenary scored all of the Beach Soccer Ballers’ goals against the New Wave Warriors.

the Predators and the Ballers look comfortable at the top of the league but the Warriors still have a chance of getting into the championship play-off spots. Despite the goal hauls from both Delphin and Cenary, Gaya Smith of the Warriors was given the MVP award for the day due to her

excellent performance in goal and in defence.

The current points standing places the Ballers just ahead with a 15-14 point lead over the Predators. The New Wave Warriors are third with seven points while the All-Star Shrimps are fourth with four points.

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Da Conch Shack Men’s Beach Soccer League:

Provo United still undefeated PROVO United are still undefeated in the Da Conch Shack Men’s Beach Soccer League. The side’s second win has pushed them ahead of the field.

In the TCIFA’s league, that re-started after the Easter break, Northern Star FC edged past Conch Shack Shockers 9-8 to claim their first win of the season. Trailing 5-4 after the opening period (with a player short), Northern Star slowly got back into the game to take a 9-7 lead with only two minutes to play. A late strike brought the Shockers within one goal, but Northern Star managed to hang on for the win, which takes them off the bottom of the league.

Ralph Pierre scored four goals for Northern Star and Jon Flanagan was a big asset in goal—saving a penalty from Chris Reid. Rayan McKnight had a strong game and Jean Guerrier’s versatility as a

goalkeeper and defender ensured the game was close all the way.

In the second game, both Provo United and Stingrays Strikers exploded into action scoring goals at will throughout the opening two periods. However, the influence of Marcdonald Fenelus began to pay dividends as he inspired his team to a 12-7 victory, with seven goals and two assists. Phil Shearer and Craig James both scored impressive goals and Tommy Farrell controlled the tempo of the Strikers team, but Provo United had just that little bit extra on the day with Fenelus leading the way, ably supported by the likes of Jacques Etienne and Michael Woodburn. Provo United now find themselves at the top of the league with two wins, with both the Stingrays and Northern Star one win behind. Games are played every Sunday at 3.30pm and 6.00pm.

May 7 - 13, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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Penn Relays:

Williams’s amazing split leads Munro to 4X400M victory DELANO Williams has much more to cheer about than a gold medal at the CARIFTA Games; the ace-sprinter anchored his Jamaican school, Munro College, to a first place in the 4X400M at the prestigious Penn Relays last week.

The TCI athlete, Williams, achieved this feat with an amazing split of 46.21s—the best time in the finals of the event. In the relays which were held from April 28-30 in the USA, Munro College finished a clean three seconds ahead of their closest opponents to take the title.

Williams anchored the side to a mark of 3:11.31 minutes, while California High School Junipero Serra finished second (3:14.39) and Jamaica side Wolmer’s Boys (3:14.98) placed third.

Williams’s split was the only one below 47 seconds despite the numerous talented junior athletes

from Jamaica and the USA in the championship run.

The Munro boys were in full attack mode in the final, since in the preliminary round they won their heat with a time of 3:12.95 Waynee Hyman (47.62s), Rolando Reid (49.09s), Kaneil Harrison (48.75s) and Williams (47.49s).

SECOND PLACE In the 4X100M Munro College, who was led by another TCI athlete Ifeanyi Otuonye and anchored by Williams, had to settle for second place. Wolmer’s Boys took the gold in 40.42s while Munro finished in 40.52s. Kingston College, with 40.62s, placed third.

At this year’s CARIFTA Games in Jamaica Williams won a gold medal in the 200M. The 17-year-old has had an amazing 2011 with personal bests and a national record along with a few first place finishes.

Delano Williams, right, runs anchor for a second place finish in the 4X100M relays

Grand Turk Football League:

No clear winner yet THE GRAND Turk Football League’s trophy is up for grabs this weekend since three of the fourth teams are within striking distance.

Olympic Construction, Grand Turk Academy and Haitian All Stars all have good chances of lifting the top prize going into the final round of matches on the capital island.

The other team in the league, organised by the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) with assistance from the Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission, is the International Strikers. After eight games the Grand Turk Academy team leads the points standing with 13, followed by Haitian All Stars and Olympic Construction with 11 each. International Strikers are on ten points.

Last weekend Olympic Construction defeated Haitian All Stars 3-0 and Grand Turk Academy stopped International Strikers 1-0.

Michael Frednel, Shawn Gayle and Alteus Kerlus scored for Olympic Construction while Events Alcide Jean’s lone strike was enough for the Academy team to get the better of the Strikers. The Haitian All Stars had only themselves to blame as they failed to convert after being awarded two penalties when their opponents handled the ball twice in the box. This weekend’s final round of matches will see Grand Turk Academy taking on Olympic Construction and Haitian All Stars going against International Strikers.

Olympic Construction after garnering only five points in their previous six games made a surge to get maximum six points from their next two. In contrast International Strikers were sitting at the top with ten points from five games, but lost three consecutive matches to become stuck on their current tally.

Jean leads the goal scoring charts

with five, jointly with Mark Nelson of the International Strikers. Rudy Duffante of Haitian All Stars is next with four other players on two goals each.

Interestingly the Academy team consists of mainly players below 21 years of age with some still attending the H. J. Robinson High School.

A drawn game for the Academy team this weekend could be enough for them to take the trophy as they presently have a goal difference of plus two with 12 goals for and ten against. Olympic Construction has zero having scored ten goals and conceded ten and Haitian All Stars has a goal difference of minus one.

They have scored ten goals and have so far conceded 11.

The crowd support at all the matches have been extremely good and with the outcome of the league so delicately poised, this weekend’s encounters might see the same or maybe more support.

Delano Williams cools down after running an amazing 4X400M split.

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May 7 - 13, 2011