Weekly News UK blamed Volume 25 | No. 40 | October 15 - 21, 2011
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Turks and Caicos
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Hike NHIP – or cut service?
Public’s views now being sought on how to slash health care costs PAGE 5
Johnston claims reach $30m Ex-workers told only way to claim funds owed is to sue British Caribbean Bank PAGE
fiscal woes
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Dump fires ‘may cause killer diseases’ FINDINGS of an independent health expert who scrutinised harmful pollution from Provo’s deplored dump site have finally been released by government. PAGE
for hospitals’
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PNP leader blasts ‘inaction, indifference and incompetence’ by interim gov’t 5 PAGE
PNP leader Clayton Greene has defended the under-fire social health care system – blaming its fiscal failures on the country’s British stewards.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
October 15 - 21, 2011
October 15 - 21, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
October 15 - 21, 2011
NATIONAL
Johnston claims reach $30m Ex-workers told only way to claim funds owed is to sue British Caribbean Bank By Gemma Handy CREDITORS’ claims from bust contractors Johnston hit almost a whopping $30m – but liquidators say there is currently less than $370,000 available to settle them. The news has dismayed the fallen firm’s dozens of former workers who claim they are owed $2.7m alone. The largest creditor is British construction company Rotary International for sub-contracted works to the multi-million dollar hospitals. Bosses say Johnston’s demise left them more than $12m out of pocket. Others clamoring for cash include general trade creditors, amounting to $2.3m, the ultimate parent company OVL which says it is owed $8.9m, and associated companies whose claims reach $2.6m. Joint liquidators Andrew Newlands and Paul Dempsey met with creditors recently to update them on progress made. They revealed they are actively chasing $3.2m of cash owed to Johnston that they believe there’s a “real possibility” will be recouped. But it’s a drop in the ocean of the total amounts owed to the firm which once flew the flag for the TCI’s economic heydays. It is these non-payments which cemented Johnston’s collapse. Lawyer Martin Green told last month’s creditors
meeting that chasing them would be a waste of the precious meagre amounts clawed in so far. One is the bankrupt Nikki Beach resort. Entities which are being pursued include the unfinished Lucaya Resort in Grace Bay which owes $1.7m, and the St Charles resort in North Caicos which owes $675,000. Winding up proceedings have been started by the liquidators after no responses were received from either company. The half-built Cacique Royale Beach Club in Grand Turk owes $550,000, developers of Grace Bay Suites owe $195,000, while Leeward Limited owes $18,000. Statutory demands have been served on all three, the final step before issuing winding up proceedings. Also being chased is a $40,000 sum from hospital operators InterHealth Canada – a debt it “totally rejects”, according to a spokeswoman. She told the meeting that the matter should be resolved between Johnston, which built the facilities, and its subcontractor. The liquidators’ report also cites two unnamed people with unpaid personal loans of $32,000 and $27,000. Demands have been made in both cases, with legal proceedings filed for one. Neither has been named to save them “embarrassment”. Meanwhile, Johnston’s beleaguered ex-staff have been told to decide whether they wish to spend
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 Faizool Deo – Sports Samantha Dash-Rigby – 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
the paltry sums recovered “fighting the elephant” by suing Lord Ashcroft-owned British Caribbean Bank (BCB). BCB’s appointed receiver Keith Arnold apparently breached local law by refinancing debts to pay the bank around $6m, rather than compensating staff. Under TCI employment legislation, workers are prioritised for reimbursement above creditors. The Alexandra Resort, a major receivable, was used to satisfy the contractor’s debt to BCB. That was despite staff being owed salary and allowances for the whole of June and July and part of August 2010. They are also owed unpaid notice, severance and leave entitlement. The only way for them to get that now, liquidators said, is to launch legal action. “We believe BCB should have paid employees’ claims before paying themselves but they did not and we think staff should be making a claim against BCB,” Mr Newlands said. But he warned: “You are fighting the elephant – it’s fairly obvious they are liable but they have unlimited funds.” Mr Green said employees’ preferential claim was worth $2m. “We do not have $2m - or anything like that. “However the receiver appointed by BCB took assets they valued at $6m from which that money should have been paid. “It’s in your interests that that debt should fall on BCB’s receiver and we will do everything we can to make sure you get that,” he told staff present at the meeting. Johnston’s former group commercial manager Stewart McSwiney, who says he is personally owed a whopping $97,000 plus interest from his erstwhile employer, blasted receiver Mr Arnold for being “biased” towards the bank and “ignoring” TCI labour laws. He added that he was “mystified” as to why the government had not taken action against BCB. However, Andrew Ashcroft, BCB’s managing director, denied that the bank had received any funds “in error” or that the company had acted “improperly”. “If there were any credence
Former workers are being told the only way to retrieve their money is by suing British Caribbean Bank, owned by Lord Ashcroft (above)
whatsoever to this allegation, then it would be reasonable to expect a claim to have been made against BCB and/or the receivers. “No such claim has been brought against BCB,” he added. Liquidators also detailed the “uphill struggle” to recover cash owed by other entities. There are currently two claims against UdeCott, a Trinidian state enterprise. One is for works certified as having been done but for which the Trinidian government is refusing to pay the $4.3m allegedly owed. UdeCott has filed a counter claim in what was described by Mr Green as an “attempt to frustrate the process”. He warned that the bill for the legal proceedings would be “lengthy and costly”, with no guarantee UdeCott will cough up even if the case is successful. The other claim is for completed but uncertified contract work which could top $13.3m. UdeCott is said to be aware of that potential claim but has not dealt with it and is unlikely to until either negotiation talks or litigation starts.
Mr Dempsey told creditors: “Essentially you would be battling against the government of Trinidad and, quite frankly, they have more money than you do. “If UdeCott was going to pay, they would have done. It’s a question of how much money you are willing to spend to make them.” A creditors committee of seven – including a former employee and a handful of lawyers – was formed to decide how the money recovered so far should be spent. Attorney Donhue Gardiner, representing ex-workers, told the Weekly News he was seeking further counsel before advising former employees whether or not to sue BCB. The liquidators’ report cites the economic downturn as an ultimate nail in Johnston’s coffin. The firm built some of the country’s largest and most prestigious developments over the last three decades, before falling victim to the recession in summer last year. It employed 35 expat workers and around a dozen Belonger casual labourers at the time of its collapse.
Have you seen Scotty? DIS T RAU G H T owners of a ginger and white kitten are urging Providenciales residents to keep a look out. ‘Scotty’ has been missing from his Chalk Sound home since September 29. Anyone who has seen Scotty is asked to call Josephine Connolly on 231 0024.
October 15 - 21, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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NATIONAL
UK blamed for hospitals’ fiscal woes PNP leader blasts ‘inaction, indifference and incompetence’ by interim gov’t By Gemma Handy PNP leader Clayton Greene has defended the under-fire social health care system – blaming its fiscal failures on the country’s British stewards. He told a press briefing on Wednesday that the pressures the hospitals face were due to the interim’s administration’s “inaction, indifference and incompetence”. The attorney spoke out hot on the heels of a flurry of change among the government’s top dogs. Ongoing public sector reform and the newly published Crown land policy also prompted harsh words from the former Speaker of the House. He told media he wanted to expose the “grim reality” of the three issues to the new Governor, new chief financial officer, and temporary civil service chief. The party leader said sufficient
provisions for oversight of health care had been built into the contracts with operators Interhealth Canada. He said the issue was not whether the hospitals were necessary – or whether a “properly funded and managed” National Insurance Health Plan was needed to accompany them. “We believe that they were and we are now well past that question.” Mr Greene continued: “There is only one question that needs to be answered now and that is whether this interim administration has or is adequately managing the system. “Have they, in a timely manner, established the regulatory and oversight bodies that the contract provided for, thus ensuring that the system works as it was envisioned? “Have they been good stewards of this infrastructure that was the brainchild of an elected government who saw that the development of its people required that state of the art health care was readily accessible to
Clayton Greene said islanders had been left “uninformed, uninvolved and uncertain” of what lies ahead for the last three years
all? “We say no….We should all hold them to account. They bear responsibility. “They should be held accountable for the fact that the system is now threatening to collapse to our detriment but not to theirs.” He said neither a crucial Health Regulatory Authority or Clinical Services Review Board had yet been
established, as previously outlined. Mr Greene vowed that the PNP would vehemently oppose hikes in individual health contributions. “This interim administration must recognise that its approach of tax and cut is not a model that will see us out of a budget deficit. “There has to be a commitment to the growth of the economy.” He continued: “Because it is a social health plan the government will continue to have to contribute to the plan from the general revenue.” Mr Greene went on to blast public sector overhaul measures which he said focused solely on slashing costs with no regard for the “widespread negative social and economic impact”. The party leader chided a recently announced move to half the number of permanent secretaries while making all reapply for their jobs. “We must make a pre-emptive strike with a view to letting the administration know that that will not happen in these Turks and Caicos Islands. “Organise yourselves and peacefully protest against this threatened action,” he told department heads.
Cuts to civil servants’ wages and allowances caused widespread public uproar last year. The PNP leader urged the administration to refocus efforts on increasing training opportunities for workers. Referring to the new Crown land policy, Mr Greene described it as having a “major flaw”. “It seeks to remove control of this admittedly limited resource from the Cabinet and has placed it in the hands of the Attorney General. “This is again evidence of the fact that this interim administration is determined to castrate the local administration and render elected government ineffective,” he stormed. “What makes the Attorney General, an unelected British appointee, a better custodian of the people’s land than a government that the people would have elected to manage their affairs?” Mr Greene accused Britain of harbouring a “fundamental mistrust” towards the TCI. “Unless this thread is broken, the Turks and Caicos that we know and love, the Turks and Caicos Islands that we have built, will be no more,” he added.
Hike NHIP – or cut service? Public’s views now being sought on how to slash health care costs By Gemma Handy HOW should TCI slash crippling health care costs? By reducing services provided, increasing NHIP contributions – or banning impoverished immigrants from the country? That’s the question now being put to the public. Government hopes to reach a consensus on the best way to cut annual spending on the “unsustainable” social system. Annual health expenditure, since the onset of the new hospitals, currently tops $60m a year. The bulk of the bill is paid for by TCIG – sapping one in every four dollars spent by government. Last year saw a $4m shortfall in the amount needed to run operations. Vulnerable people, including the jobless, disabled, prisoners and the elderly, were cited as a higher than expected drain.
Islanders are invited to scrutinise the figures and challenges outlined in a report and provide their thoughts. The ‘big conversation’ comes a month after new Governor Ric Todd vowed to make TCI the most transparent nation in the region. Health care in the TCI accounts for 25 per cent of overall public expenditure, declared “unusually high” by officials. Across the Caribbean, health costs take up roughly 15 per cent of total spending. In Canada, they’re around 18 per cent and in the US 19 per cent. In the UK and rest of Europe, the sector swallows between 14 and 18 per cent of total money spent. Options to reduce costs include renegotiating the contract between the government and Interhealth Canada which could see a cap on hospital-based primary care services; reducing the range of services funded by NHIP; limiting care for some people such as temporary migrant
workers; and capping benefits like “open ended and unlimited” overseas treatment. Other proposals include introducing competitive tendering on drugs, or mandating patients to pay full price for certain routine medication such as antibiotics. In addition, NHIP could help fund government primary health care programmes by paying for staff or infrastructure maintenance. Or government may opt to encourage more people to use private clinics by increasing funding for private sector primary care services, to reduce demand on public facilities. Government also suggests a number of measures for resolving the issue by increasing revenue. They include hiking contributions to a higher per cent; establishing a minimum contribution rate of $25 a month; or increasing co-payments for some services. Additionally, families who currently don’t pay extra for dependents, could contribute up to a maximum of two children at $10 continued
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Questions to consider
1. Should the Government renegotiate the contract with Interhealth Canada? 2. Should the financial imbalance be addressed by increasing contribution rates, or reducing benefits, or both? 3. Should NHIP contributors with dependants pay higher contributions than those without dependants, if they can afford to? 4. Should co-payments on pharmaceuticals, dental and optical care be increased for those that can afford them? 5. hould co-payments be introduced for all health care treatments, except for those that cannot afford them? 6. Should a minimum residency period apply to membership of the NHIP and new immigrants would only receive the minimum benefits required under international conventions? 7. Should NHIP benefits be restricted to urgent treatments only? 8. Should medical practitioners be expected to take their share of reducing healthcare costs? Log onto http://www.gov.tc and click the ‘health’ button to read the full report outlining the figures and challenges in their entirety. Comments should be emailed to tcihealthcarefunding@gmail.com and/or mailed to: CEO TCI public service, c/o Tito Lightbourne, NJS Francis Building, Grand Turk, before October 31.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
October 15 - 21, 2011
A Weekly News column that puts you on the spot for your opinions on the issues of the day
Is TCI ready for elections?
AS DEBATE continues to abound regarding next year’s slated general elections, we asked for your thoughts on whether TCI is ready for the long-awaited poll. When do you think the ballot should take place? Are you happy with the current party leaders? And, what, if anything, needs to be achieved before an election date should be set?
Recover pillaged cash
“Elections in the Turks & Caicos Islands should take place when the prosecutions are over, the country’s lands are recovered, the country is stabilised as a place to do business. “Right now the biggest threat facing native born Belongers, Turks & Caicos Islanders, is the already widened franchise wherein some 1,000 PRCs are already granted, some 780 Belongerships were sold and the new constitution provides that to be a Belonger one must be naturalised. “To get there, ie being naturalised, one must either be a Belonger or a PRC holder. Well the former government has already taken care of that by selling so much of those things, processing over 3,000 PRCs etc, and the path to Belongership is clear. “The other threat is the obvious intent to make the public pay for what others have done. “The unnecessary increase in taxes, the agenda to tax more and more is ominous. There seems to be no intention to speed up asset recovery from former ministers and developers, as well as deciding that monies recovered would be termed as revenue. If so, these ‘new revenues’ should go to reducing taxes. “The also greater threat is the hospital and NHIP scam foisted on the people by the former PNP regime without telling the facts. “It is time this whole scam, the contract with Interhealth Canada and the need for the government to pay $60m annually to health must end. “People are paying twice through higher taxes and another five per cent extra to a scam where people do not know where their monies are going. “It’s a major shame and disgrace, the 80-pound gorilla in the room, and no one wants to say anything. “The Governor recently stated in his interview with the media this week that “we” ought to “honour” agreements. Yes but where these “agreements” were procured by fraud on the part of former ministers, the collusion of the Labour Government, the acquiescence of the incumbent Conservative Government, such agreements should be considered illegal and set aside. “The now proactive Attorney General needs to sue on behalf of the government of the TCI and the Crown for the court to declare these contacts illegal with Interhealth Canada
and to take this albatross off the backs of the TCI people. “Elections will come, investors will fund their puppets, politicians with the least intellect, as was seen in 2003 through 2009, control the country, tax policy and labour policy whereby locals are not allowed jobs. “Then because of under the table deals, revenues are low and ministers must tell students, like the interim government, we have no monies for scholarships. “Will this be the fate of the next government? Let’s be real. For whom are we seeking power? To develop our people, our youth, our economy, schools, the college? “Are we seeking to elect men who will again serve the investors, like the hospital scam, after 25 years some $2.5bn will be paid through taxes and NHIP to the investors for a scam which is costing 20 times the real value. “This was all because some investor bought the PNP government and, by extension, the salaries of the poor people of the TCI. “Let’s end this cycle of nothing for the people. Let’s enact election laws so investors cannot buy elections, buy governments and buy the country. “The TCI is not ready for elections as long as what happened before in 2003 through 2009 could happen again and there are TCI Banklike scams, Interhealth scams, Salt Cay Devco scams, selling tens of work permits, thousands of PRCs and Belongerships etc. “Let the British recover our monies they allowed the ministers and the developers to take first, reduce our taxes and stop making people pay again for what others have done. “Then these islands will be ready for elections.”
Explanations needed
“I do not believe that any elections should be held until the illustrious Ms Garlick has laid all her charges. “There is no point in spending all that money on elections only to find that half of our elected officials are being indicted and will not be allowed to sit in the House! “Also, leaders on both sides have plenty of explaining to do before they are put in charge of these islands again!”
Time to wake up
“The direct rule by Britain was enforced in August 2009. However as soon as Governor Wetherell arrived in August 2008, political
activity was curtailed and, based on the mess the PNP administration created, it needed to be stopped. “The problem is after the early 2009 Commission of Inquiry revealed massive problems Britain had the political capital to move but chose to go to sleep believing that TCI was rich. “Colin Roberts and Governor Wetherell expressed this opinion openly. However we were not rich, we were broke! “The permanent secretaries and 1,000 extra civil servants installed by the PNP, including some PNP supporters installed by PDM under Taylor, stonewalled Wetherell as he left them in place. “Only in 2010 did Wetherell wake up to the financial challenges and, with the same PNP government less the ministers and representatives, put together an unachievable budget now adding even more to our debt. “The interim government is almost as broke as the PNP government. Only the inadequate $260m loan is keeping the cash flow at a slightly improved level. “However there is no capital or loans possible for an elected government to install needed infrastructure repairs and upgrades. No schools, no pavement to Blue Hills, not even a band aid for the causeway folks. “The British advisers are finally completing some milestones but until we see voter registrations, voting regulation and prosecutions, elections are not possible. “Until Stanley cleans out those PNP secretaries TCIG is doomed. What is he waiting for? Woe be it to the next elected government. “The Hall/Ewing/Wetherell NHIP is unaffordable and so is the massive civil service all put in place since 2004 or left in place since the inquiry. The mess continues. “Until the prosecutions clear PNP’s Clayton Greene his fate is unknown. Maybe ‘man of the year’ Robert Hall will step up. He may have to launder some old problems to win however. Possibly switch hitter Dr Mills. Dr Misick has left and we have not heard from Dr Lillian. Dr Ewing has said no to politics. “Attorney Simons has gone silent as client Devco now retreats. There are others but we do not know who will escape Garlick. Sounds like we need another French Revolution to take out the folks with the fancy titles. Yes PNP is a question mark. “Over at PDM Parnell has been the voice of the islanders but a voice it seems crying in the wilderness. Parnell has caused concern among the PNP so they took their shot and wounded him. However he is recovering and still speaking out. “PNPs are behind the moves to put Taylor back in charge of PDM because he is easily beatable as he proved in the past. That party needs to wake up and install some of that loyalty the PNP is famous for. “Maybe they will pick Selver who lost to his brother or Euwonka employed by a Misick. “Where is CPA Floyd Seymour? He looks like the only financial manager the country has. If Parnell could be the voice with Seymour holding the cheque book the country would be well off . Why PDM does not realise this is a wonder? Right now all things political are really dormant. “The country is waiting for an injection of cash either from Mother Britain or the recovery team but we need not hold our breath. “The constitutions of both parties are
actually in limbo because they have no provision for elected government to be suspended this long or for the country to be this bankrupt.”
Service above self
“First thing first, we can’t be ready for an election until we have more persons who are truly willing to put country above self running for these positions. “They are still fighting against their own members so how are they ready to run the country? “Strict conduct codes need to be put in place so we don’t have the same misfortunes as we have experienced in recent times. “No politician who has been previously found guilty of a crime or is now under active investigation should be allowed to run. “If they truly love their country they would sit the next election out until their names are cleared of any pending charges.”
Complete prosecutions
“It would be folly to proceed with elections until the country’s financial house is in order and the pending prosecutions are conducted. “The first issue requires a dramatic downsizing of the public service which an elected local government will never do. The second is critical in order to ensure that the foxes don’t re-enter the henhouse. “Moreover, the spectre of prosecuting a sitting Premier, and/or Cabinet members, is not an attractive one. Nor is the notion of arresting a candidate for election in the midst of his or her campaign. “The length of time that the SIPT is taking to commence prosecutions is disturbing. Clearly, the initial unwillingness of the UK to provide sufficient funding is partly to blame. “However, given Ms Garlick’s reputation as a skillful and diligent prosecutor, I am inclined to accept her explanation that the large and complex web of corruption has required much time and effort to untangle, resulting in additional delays. “Even though they probably could commence proceedings against some of the culprits now, one must not forget that many of the cases are undoubtedly interrelated and they can’t take the risk of disclosing evidence which may compromise investigation of crimes involving uncharged parties.”
Bunch of children
“After watching the PNP press conference yesterday, I have to say these islands are not ready for elections. “The PNP came across as a bunch of continued
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
October 15 - 21, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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NATIONAL
Dump fires ‘may cause killer diseases’ Independent report into pollution finally released to public By Gemma Handy FINDINGS of an independent health expert who scrutinised harmful pollution from Provo’s deplored dump site have finally been released by government. And the report confirms residents’ worse fears that the dreaded deadly toxins released by endless bonfires may indeed trigger cancer, leukaemia and heart disease. Long-suffering Wheeland and Blue Hills residents have complained for years about choking smog that seeps into hundreds of nearby homes. Plans are in the pipeline to transfer the 17-acre site to a private company amid a mammoth clean-up scheme
continued
children blaming others for the mistakes they made in the past such as the hospitals and NHIP. “Everyone from day one said they were unsustainable but they insisted they knew better and pushed ahead and what have they left us with? Huge debts and a huge problem. “Some of the other comments were simply racist such as, when discussing schooling, to say we have to ensure schooling for all Caribbean children that are here in the TCI is racist in the extreme. “What about the children from all nationalities from all round the world such as Canadians, Europeans and Filipino to name a few? Do they not deserve an education? “They simply are not ready to lead this or any country and that is shown by the number of ex-ministers, all of whom have a cloud hanging over them and prosecutions pending that attended the meeting and spoke and the instigators and organisers of what looks like a failed NHIP and hospitals. “The PDM are no better coming out in their press conference that whatever law changes the British bring in about Crown land they will reverse, just seems to state that they too will simply be on a land grab, like the previous government.”
but the project is currently on ice due to funding crises. Dr Pierre Auger, an international consultant from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), toured the refuse site on March 1. He believes the fires are started by desperate illegal immigrants salvaging valuable copper from discarded tyres and wires. Among the dangerous pollutants released into the air, he says, are carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulphur dioxide. And he goes on to suggest that the toxins could even contaminate ground water supplies. Dr Auger met with residents during his trip to Provo who described “frequent episodes of smoke” with an “irritating” and “acrid pungent odour”. They testified that the fumes were “very sticky” and difficult to get out their homes, even when windows had been kept shut. One resident said his wife had suffered from debilitating asthma since the couple moved to the
Pungent smoke often lingers over nearby homes for several days
area. He also said he feared many young children were suffering lung problems. Dr Auger said, despite the brevity of his visit, he could “already assert that this situation could be unhealthy” for people living nearby. He said such dumpsites had been prohibited for several decades in Canada and many other parts of the world.
Hike NHIP – or cut service?
continued from 5
The consultant pointed to research conducted overseas on the health impact of tyre burning and wire incineration processes. Both, he says, are “sources of air contamination with carbon monoxide, suspended particulates, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide”. He goes on to provide a disturbing litany of toxins known for “neurotoxicity, carcinogenicity, or immunologic effects” including leukaemia. “Children, the chronically sick and elders, pregnant women and foetuses and newborns are particularly vulnerable to these pollutants,” Dr Auger states. “The lungs are particularly sensitive to the suspended particulates, nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide. “Moreover, cardio-vascular diseases in older people might be triggered by these exposures. “There is in addition a possibility of ground water contamination.” Dr Auger concludes that there is a “clear, unhealthy situation”. He said further investigation
would require significant expenditure for extensive research, including scrutinising details of hospital visits by young children with asthma or other lung problems. He ends by urging the government to accelerate the long-delayed cleanup scheme and to control access to the dump “as fast as possible”. Last month we reported that security guards had been enlisted to keep a daytime vigil at the site in a bid to curb bonfires. Ministry of Health chiefs also claimed staff were visiting the site twice daily on the look out for surreptitious ‘fire lighters’. But the measures appear to have had little effect as pungent smoke continues to linger in the area, sometimes for several days, whenever there is a drop in wind. People living in the north-west of Provo say the smog has been so thick at times they can barely see 10 metres in front of them. Management and reconstruction of the Millennium Highway site was last scheduled to begin in April 2012.
Rake ‘n’ scrape festival Last year saw a $4m shortfall in the amount needed to run health care operations
per child. Alternatively, the system could allow for voluntary contributions by long-term residents presently not eligible, retired people and winter visitors. These could be for a full benefits package or a local, treatment only package. Government also suggests boosting income via health tourism with plans in the pipeline for cosmetic and prostrate treatments to be offered. It is also considering a ‘sin tax’ on tobacco, alcohol and high sugar
content products, with money generated given specifically to the health care budget. The third – and even more controversial – area for discussion, is to banish economic migrants from TCI by limiting incomers to those from first world countries and fellow overseas territories only. The government says this would increase the tax base and lessen the burden on the small population, but admits it raises “social and cultural issues”.
THE SOUNDS of traditional rake ‘n’ scrape are set to fill the air at a music festival in North Caicos this month. Revellers are invited to join in the fun at Horsestable Beach on October 28 and 29. Events will kick off with performances by the Grand Land Band and entertainment from DJ Shakes, DJ Nip, Techno Sounds and Febb Ent. Admission for the first day is $20 for adults and $10 for children. The second day comprises an all day and night beach party with performances by the Grand Land Band, Koolaid, Keno &
Kaz, Elroy & Daz, Lovey Forbes and Qband Lynks. There will also be a special surprise guest artist from the Bahamas, DJ entertainment by Techno Sounds, Febb Ent, Trinity Sounds, and Almighty Sounds, plus games and prizes for children. Tickets for $50 are available for the Saturday October 29 events, which include return ferry from Provo to North Caicos and bus ride to the beach. Festival proceeds will go towards Raymond Gardiner High School. Call 331-8260 for more details.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
October 15 - 21, 2011
NATIONAL
New Chief Justice to start next month A NEW Chief Justice has been named to replace retiring Gordon Ward as part of a trio of new faces on the Supreme Court bench. Edwin Goldsbrough, from England and with more than 30 years experience in the legal field, will take on the position from early next month. Mr Goldsbrough has been acting as a judge to the court since the departure of Richard Williams in August. Current Chief Magistrate Joan Joyner will take up position as a judge next month. And Margaret Ramsay-Hale, from Jamaica, will also join the bench as Honourable Justice. All three appointments followed a long recruitment process over the summer and have been approved by Governor Ric Todd, upon the recommendation of the Judicial Services Commission. It is hoped that the hiring of an additional judge will help ease the Supreme Court’s crippling workload. Mr Goldsbrough was admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales in 1980 and obtained a post graduate diploma in business administration in 1988. Having worked in courts administration in England for some
years, he worked abroad in various judicial and advisory roles. These included advising on the establishment of the Judicial College of Zimbabwe and the training of newly appointed judges, training officer and senior Crown counsel on St Helena, Supreme Court and Appeal Court judge of the Republic of Vanuatu and, for the last six years, High Court judge, head of the civil division and acting president of the Court of Appeal of the Solomon Islands. Hon Justice Joyner was called to the Jamaica bar in 1982 having qualified in law from the University of the West Indies and the Norman Manley Law School. She had already obtained a BA in English at the Marquette University, Milwaukee, and has been admitted as an attorney to the Jamaica and Texas bars. After working in various legal roles in Jamaica, Justice Joyner worked in TCI as senior Crown counsel followed by Director of Public Prosecutions in St KittsNevis and senior Crown counsel in BVI. After a short period in private practice in Texas, she was appointed Chief Magistrate to Dominica
before her appointment as resident magistrate in Grand Turk. She was appointed Chief Magistrate in 2008 when Justice Richard Williams was made a judge of the Supreme Court. Hon Ramsay-Hale was educated in Jamaica until attending school in England to take her GCE A-levels. She obtained a BSc in economics at the London School of Economics
and an LLB from the University of the West Indies. After completing her legal education at the Norman Manley Law School in 1991, she entered private practice in London chambers before returning to the Caribbean in 1994. She has been Crown counsel, judge of the Family Court and resident magistrate in Jamaica before
First aid training for TCI police ISLANDERS will be better assisted in cases of emergency thanks to essential first aid training being given to 300 police officers and other workers. Red Cross trainers will provide the life-saving courses free of charge to police along with fire service and shelter personnel throughout October. A charity spokeswoman said: “Police officers are often the first to arrive at the scene of an accident or incident where a person may require first aid. “It is therefore vitally important that they know what to do to treat any injuries and stabilise the person or persons until the emergency medical services can transport them
to hospital.” Police Commissioner Colin Farquhar expressed delight at the move, saying: “It is imperative that our police officers and civilian personnel are able to respond if first aid attention is needed by the public. “This is an important partnership and we appreciate the generosity of the Red Cross and its volunteers.” Julia Brothwell, British Red Cross representative to TCI, said the organisation’s first aid courses were renowned worldwide. “And we take very seriously our responsibility to the Turks and Caicos Islands in providing emergency responders with the necessary first aid skills and the confidence to use
Throwing petrol on the fire John Hartley is a retired CEO. He was educated in economics and econometrics at Manchester University and Harvard Business School. He is an occasional contributor at invitational economics seminars at Brazenose College, Oxford.
Economics Column THE CHANGING of the guard within HMG’s economics team and the announcement of the overseas territory review have been accompanied by a shower of hysterical commentary from senior and well known Very Serious People who, despite their ignorance, think they should be taken seriously. We are told that the British have pillaged us, suppressed us, that they wish to force us in to poverty and so on at sickening length. How can this drivel help Belongers and residents? How will investors, domestic or foreign, react to the idea that, after the next election, which is long overdue, the country will fall into the hands of people who spout this rubbish? Our economy is fragile enough without having confidence further undermined by these famous ‘VSPs’. Economic policy and performance has the characteristic that its outcomes are readily observable. If you get it wrong, forget full sovereignty or independence, the markets will crush you. Ask Greece, Ireland and Portugal, all of
she moved to the Cayman Islands as a magistrate in 1998. She was appointed Chief Magistrate in 2008 and has acted as judge of the Grand Court. She has been a guest law lecturer in Cayman Islands and the US. She is, at present, the Caribbean regional member of the Council of the Commonwealth Magistrates and Judges Association.
which are being run from Brussels, Berlin and Paris. This is especially painful for the Irish who only got full economic independence from Britain when they abandoned the link to the pound as their currency in 1970. They have swapped masters in London for masters in Berlin. So what have HMG done to pillage us and deliberately force us into poverty and servitude? Readers know that this column is in the first rank of critics of key parts of government policy, but today let’s look at some of their accomplishments: • We are still here with a functioning government and judiciary. • Over $400m of mostly inherited debt has been managed and $260m of it guaranteed. If TCI was forced to pay Greek interest rates based on default, interest alone would absorb around $60m a year. We would in fact be bankrupt, and thousands of jobs would have been blown away. • Providenciales airport runway, neglected for years, has been rescued just in time and upgraded. No airport equals no tourists equals outright economic catastrophe. • About $40m of direct revenue support. • Crushing the very ill-advised move by the VSPs to introduce a bank deposit guarantee scheme to be paid for by the Canadian banks. Why wreck one of the pillars of our
economy – three strong banks in such a tiny economy. • Strengthening the police force: a marked improvement in law and order. • Cleaning up tax concessions for foreigners which drive business to Florida at the expense of Belongers. • An attack on the deep seated culture of corruption. This is still a work in progress. Much depends on the functioning of the new constitution and the results of elections to come. • Streamlining government operations - still a work in progress but the effects are already being felt. • Streamlining and modernising fiscal policy and execution. This is still a work in progress, and it is going much too slowly. • Last, but not least. Beginning to eradicate the fear and insecurity which gripped many lawful guest workers for year after year. We should not expect leaders of such small calibre to comprehend that we are in the middle of the worst economic climate for 70 years. Compared with many developing economies we are surviving pretty well. That is not to say we should not be doing a lot better, but throwing petrol on the fire in response to a perfectly sensible policy review is really damaging to all our interests, but especially to those vulnerable Belongers who so badly need the resumption of foreign investment.
them,” she said. Ms Brothwell added: “It is not only the professionals that need training in first aid. “Accidents happen in the home, at school, at work, at sea, as well as on the roads and other public areas. “The Red Cross would like to see that every man, woman and child knows some key life saving skills, and we have different first aid courses available to suit everyone.” For more information on first aid classes or to buy first aid kits, call 941-8056 in Provo or 946-2761 in Grand Turk.
Thanks for Youth Week support YOUTH Department workers have thanked the public for their “exceptional support” of activities during Youth Week. Celebrated under the theme ‘Youth, your moment is now’ between September 25 and 29, it featured a number of educational and fun events across the TCI. Some of the highlights included church services, debates, a youth parade, an all day fair and panel discussions. A spokesman said: “The Youth Department wishes to thank the public for their exceptional support of all activities. “We are extremely pleased with the level of participation from schools, youth groups and other community organisations. “Youth Week committees throughout the islands did a great job of planning and executing events. “The week of events was only successful because of the support and efforts of all stakeholders. “To celebrate our youth means celebrating our future so, once again, the department says thanks.”
October 15 - 21, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
9
NATIONAL
Fighting the flab? Wrightfully Fit gym kicks off latest weight loss challenge
ISLANDERS battling to beat the bulge are invited to sign up for a new weight loss challenge – which could earn them $3,000 into the bargain. Wrightfully Fit gym has launched its latest initiative to help people fighting the flab to get in shape in time for Christmas. And with $5,000 worth of cash prizes, fitness centre boss John Wright is bracing himself for an influx of takers. Registrations are now being taken at the Turtle Cove-based gym. The entry
fee of $100 gives participants access to a complete fitness programme, plus weekly fitness camp and a healthy, fatbusting meal plan. The challenge will run until December 10 with $3,000 up for grabs for the winner, $1,500 for the runner-up and $500 for the third placed finalist. John told would-be participants: “You’ve got nothing to lose but weight.” The fitness centre’s recent Biggest Loser challenge – with similar cash
prizes – prompted scores of residents to sign up. Sheena Bassett, from Long Bay, emerged victorious after shedding an incredible 35 pounds during the three-month initiative. The 26-year-old accounts officer previously encouraged fellow dieters to follow her lead, saying: “I realised I needed to start thinking about the future. I didn’t want to be that size all my life – and I needed to start now.” Email jwrightfullyfit@yahoo.com or call 941 3311 for more details.
Sheena Bassett, from Provo, scooped $3,000 in June after winning the Biggest Loser challenge
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
October 15 - 21, 2011
October 15 - 21, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
11
NATIONAL
Excitement builds for Conch Festival PREPARATIONS are in full swing for this year’s widely anticipated Conch Festival in celebration of the TCI’s cultural icon and number one export. The eighth annual event will take place from November 25 to 27 comprising a weekend full of activities in Providenciales. The popular beachside festival’s main event will be staged on November 26 in Blue Hills, outside the Three Queen’s Bar & Restaurant. This year, the culturallyrich festivities kick off with a pre-party at Horse-Eye Jack’s on November 25 and culminate in a charity run on November 27. Dick Bain, president of the festival association, said: “The tradition continues with another edition of the Conch Festival. “Every year it gets bigger and better and we’re expecting another great weekend of fun for locals and visitors alike. “It’s an ideal way for people to get a sense of our history, culture and diverse tourism offering and visit Blue Hills. “And residents look forward to the Conch Festival every year as one of the main events throughout the islands.” Following a record turnout of both restaurants and revellers in 2010, the tasting event this year will begin at noon on November 26 and run until 7pm. Categories in the famous ‘conch-e-tition’ include best conch salad, best conch chowder, best specialty conch, best presentation, and best in show. More than 25 restaurants are expected to compete for the cash prizes and bragging rights. A $25 entry fee gives festival-goers a chance to sample all dishes entered and cast a vote for the best. There will also be various conch-related activities, local entertainment and Rotary’s annual Pot of Gold drawing where one lucky ticket, worth $10,000, will be drawn at 6pm. Raffle tickets are currently on sale from local Rotarians and will be available on the day
of the event. However, buying tickets early is encouraged because only a limited number are available. Augmenting the always delectable restaurant competitors is the annual Mojito-making contest where the island’s best bartenders put their creative twists on this classic Cuban cocktail. This year’s event also features the Turks and Caicos’ own world-renowned Junkanoo, with two separate rushes, plus other local performers. Special competitions for conch blowing and conch knocking will ensure that chefs and bartenders are not the only ones who can win prizes. Entry to the pre-party at Horse-Eye Jack’s is by ticket only which can be purchased at various venues across Provo. To burn off the caloric effects of the event, Wrightfully Fit Fitness Center will host its second annual charity run on November 27. Runners of all levels can enter fun races of either 5K/3.1 miles or 10K/6.2miles. The longer race begins at 6.30am while the 5K race starts at 7am. Both races begin and end at the Turtle Cove-based gym and wind through the scenic beachfront of Providenciales. Entry is $60 for adults and $30 for children under 18. Sign up in advance at the fitness centre, at the Miramar Resort, or by calling 941 3311. Proceeds will go to Provo Children’s Home. The Conch Festival is a family-friendly event with plenty of games and activities for youngsters, including games on the beach and a showcase of local culture. There will be bouncy castles and cartoon characters, and a cameo appearance by Santa Claus. Premier sponsor is LIME once again, with supporting sponsorship from Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), the Wine Cellar, Tropical Shipping, Amanyara, Villa Del Mar, Grace Bay Suites, Grace Bay Club and the Turks and Caicos Tourist Board, among others.
Visit www.conchfestival. com or the Facebook page at Turks & Caicos Conch Festival for more information. Special hotel packages for the festival, and a chance to win a trip to the event, can be found at www. turksandcaicosresverations.tc
Dick Bain, president of the festival association, is looking forward to presenting a weekend of top nosh, activities and competitions at the eighth annual Conch Festival
12
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
October 15 - 21, 2011
We welcome letters from all members of the public on a variety of topics.
Letter of the week
Need to address health care Dear Editor, Hugh McGarel Groves, our new chief financial officer (CFO), publically stated that the health care system in
the TCI is just too expensive. He goes on to state that TCIG needs to consider raising contributions from subscribers and/
COMMENTARY
Blame them, or help them? Lend a hand to those that really need it Commentary by Davidson Louis A British West Indies Collegiate student
TODAY, we are living in a society where illegal immigrants are often mistreated and are being blamed for the ills of our community. We have reached a point, where we urgently need to let down the pride, the prejudiced minds, and all the pitiful actions and realise that those people who come to the Turks and Caicos Islands are human beings just like you and me. For instance, it is important to know that most illegal immigrants come to the Turks and Caicos Islands because they want to escape the extreme poverty at home, the inexorable hunger and the hopeless lives in their country. Is that a crime? Where was it ever written that wanting the best for ourselves and for our families was a lawless act? The crime is when we heartlessly handcuff them, cage them into a tiny jail cell for days, treat them like animals, and when we refuse to let them through our hospital doors simply because they do not have a piece of paper to show us. This is what I call being unjust, inhumane, and unruly; when we ignore the reality and pretend that they are less human. Do unto others as you would want them to do unto you. Help others as you would want others to help you. Respect and love others just like you would want them to love you, legal or illegal, it does not matter. If you have a heart, then it would not be so hard for you to understand what these illegal immigrants are going through. A simple smile or hug is enough to make their day better: at least they will know that someone cares for them. They risked all they had, their lives, leaving behind their wives and children in the search for a better life. This is not a crime, because you would do the same if you were in their position. Taking all of this into account, there are a few things that we can do to change these people’s lives in a big way. We are not asking a whole lot, we are only asking you to care, to appreciate and to love, regardless to where these people are coming came from or how they got here. Given today’s economy, the government can allow the illegal immigrants who are already here to be made legal and work on rebuilding the TCI’s economy. This will certainly increase the country’s revenue. As a community we can look after them, feed, shelter, clothe and treat them as equals and not judge them for every little wrong thing they cause. As an individual, it is your responsibility to change your mentality and accept and love everyone. By doing this, you are teaching your own kids how to live, how to treat others, how to accept life, because you never know what life has in store for you.
LETTERS SHOULD BE KEPT TO A MAXIMUM OF 450 WORDS
or reducing benefits. This comes after TCIG published what was supposed to be a comprehensive budget and the first quarter results. It is interesting to note that neither the budget nor the quarterly reporting of results contained any hint whatsoever that the cost of health care was so seriously underfunded that it was now a serious problem. While we appreciate that the new CFO has investigated this long outstanding matter, it is not new information. There have been numerous articles on the subject of the affordability of health care with the new hospitals including one I wrote to the TCI Journal, Oct 18 2009. That submission seriously questioned the ability of 30,000 people to support two hospitals. Why was this subject not thoroughly investigated before the Wetherell government agreed to sign off on the contracts? I do not know of any country with the population of a small village that has two hospitals! It appears the surprise concerning the cost of health care is but another example that, after three years of effort, we still do not have adequate financial management, budgeting and tracking of results. The overall detailed budget for fiscal year 2011/2012 does not address all the budget items associated with health care. For example, the budget has an allocation of $12m for overseas medical treatment but does not recognise the Interhealth or NHIP administration related costs we must bear each year for facilities management ($24m) paid by TCIG and clinical services; the $24m that must be collected by NHIP. That means TCIG is directly responsible to pay $36m out of government collected revenues plus $24m from NHIP each year. The budget only shows $12m. TCIG is responsible for any shortfall in overseas care costs and NHIP collections. What is the picture regarding these collections and payments for fiscal year 2011/2012? What are the actual figures for the first quarter of 2011/2012? We simply do not know! In addition to the Interhealth annual medical costs, the TCIG department of Health and Human Services has expenses related to annual health care costs and there is
the expense of running the NHIP. It is not clear what these amounts are. However, a dental department is shown in the budget. The dental department is somewhat of a mystery. To begin with, it is budgeted to generate only $30,000 in revenue during fiscal year 2011/2012. It costs $550,331 in expenses for 2011/2012! There are a number of qualified dentists in the TCI and I doubt they are losing money at the rate the TCI dental unit is. The real question that Mr McGarel Groves needs to consider is how to seriously reduce the cost of health care, not raise our NHIP rates. He needs to think outside the box, look for innovative, quick, decisive solutions, not the classic civil service, no brainer solution to every problem; simply raise taxes. A cursory look at the current budget should convince the CFO that quick hit action is required to correct the mistakes of the past. As a starter, I would suggest the following possible ways to begin to reduce the cost of health care in the TCI: The TCIG health care unit includes a dental department. This function can be looked after by any of the capable private dental facilities in the TCI. That would save us at least $ 550,331 per year. (see budget page 3-7). Why does TCIG pay both the employer and employee NIB and NHIP contributions for civil service employees? Civil service employees should pay their own NHIP contributions.
Given the small size of the population of the TCI, and the fact that about 90 per cent of the total population resides in Providenciales, why do we need two hospitals? We should close the Grand Turk hospital services and provide limited clinic services in Grand Turk. Perhaps this could be accomplished through a private clinic on a contract basis. The TCI has a long history of people not paying their taxes and government mandated fees. The TCIG has a long history of poor collections performance. We need to improve collections. How many employers are not paying their NIB and/or NHIP contributions? How many are deducting NIB and/or NHIP employee contributions from their employees’ pay but not sending it to NIB and/or NHIP? The above four simple improvements would reduce the cost of health care in the TCI by millions of dollars over time. These are only immediate improvements; they will not bring the system into an affordable state. We need to reduce the range of services by renegotiating the Interhealth contract. However, given the core running costs of the hospitals plus the high interest rate and size of the construction loan, it is highly doubtful that an affordable level of cost versus benefits can be achieved. The absolute last thing that should be done is to increase taxes and fees on an already overtaxed people! The reason we have the problem of health care being too expensive is we do not have the population or level of economic activity to support such costs. Let’s face facts! Fred Skovberg
From crack to Christ Dear Editor This a long story, I’ll try to make it short In the depths of my addition I committed sin of all sort. Being held captive mentality in slave This crack was a substance that tried To carry me to an early grave But thank God for Jesus and his blood that was shed No longer by the price of darkness will be led I have a new friend, to you I’ll show His name is Jesus, you too should come to know By Rannie Missick
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.
October 15 - 21, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
13
Letters
Better assistance for workers needed Dear Editor, I would like to express my views on Labour Department inspectors’ behaviour and their conduct on dealing with the public and workers of the TCI. In my view they seem to conciliate those who are their friends and family or those who have a close connection with them, or those who they are comfortable with. As I understand, Labour
conciliation should not be limited to a specific person, individual, group, company or nationality. The Labour Department should be an institution to serve the community with their labour issues as long as the community requires their assistance - those who are born islanders, work permit holders, PRC holders, and the list goes on. When an individual presents themselves to the Labour Department
Right man for the job? Dear Editor, I read with disbelief the comments of the new Governor who is “surprised” by his appointment. My question is why are you surprised? This statement tells me a few things about you. Firstly, surprise appointments come to the recipient either because he has no experience in the given job (which I assume you have never been Governor before), or that you don’t feel you are suitably qualified for the position. Any hardworking, qualified or experienced person would be looking forward to such an appointment with the belief that they truly deserve it. This brings me to my second question. Why would HMG send an inexperienced, unqualified person to our country given the serious nature of the business we have to undertake? We are dealing with human lives, the quality of human life and the future of our country. So Mr Governor, surprised as you
may be, why did you take the job under the circumstances? Allow me to fill you in; since the interim administration has taken over, we have had increased crime, increased unemployment, increased taxation (with no benefits), no scholarships, pay cuts and layoffs. Additionally the interim administration under Governor Wetherell has, by pubic opinion, become the most non-transparent, non-accountable and undemocratic government this country has ever seen. So I guess I’m just saying welcome. Like your predecessor, he also gave a wonderful introductory speech about making the country progress into prosperity for all its people, but we all know how that story ended. For all our sake, I hope that you are the right man for the job as shocking as the appointment may have been for you. Euwonka Selver
with a complaint or issue it should not matter who the individual is or who they are complaining about. T h a t individual should be heard or be given an appointment with an inspector to meet for conciliation on their issues without prejudice. I believe that all inspectors are there to assist whoever requires their help. It should be brought to the public’s attention that the Labour inspectors are not doing their job. There are many institutions who are taking advantage of their employees, eg
employees working excessive hours and not being paid overtime. Inspection should be done as frequently as possible on all major companies who are engaging in slavery. Many of these employees are afraid due to the fact that they are being threatened by their employer. There are those who are threatened and are being told it is useless for them to go to the Labour Department because the Labour Department would not assist you because they are ‘in our control’. In many cases, these employees are communicating to me that the Labour Department is giving them wrong information, which makes it sound like they are sold out and with a bad attitude.
The person responsible for human rights should be up to date with these issues, and should seek to eradicate all violation of human rights, seeing that we don’t have a trade union in the TCI. The Labour Department should never avoid anyone who shows up for conciliation and should communicate to that individual that they are in conflict of interest because they have family or friends in a certain institution or company. If any of the inspectors have dealt with a case and that individual is not satisfied with the outcome, another inspector should not refuse to assist that individual with a second opinion. Edwin Hernandez
Praise for new judges Dear Editor, Greetings once more again in the name and grace of our God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. As I read these words our new Governor came to mind and whom he is depending on while leading this, our beautiful country, towards prosperity once more and perhaps better than we ever have seen it. But the king shall rejoice in God: everyone that sweareth by him shall glory but the mouth of those who speak lies shall be stopped. (Psalms 63:11) KJV. On Friday 7th October I was
inspired to watch WIV 4 news as I’m losing interest in watching the news but not reading your paper. I was pleased to heard of Governor Todd’s decision to appoint the Chief Magistrate as one of the three new Supreme Court judges for our beloved country. I would just like to take this time to give thanks and praise to God for the wisdom He has given him in making such an appointment of our truly beloved Chief Magistrate who happens to be a woman. I believe this decision and appointment will do much good
to our judicial system and to our beloved country. I shared this good news to my household, even our six-year-old daughter. May God continue to grant His grace, wisdom and knowledge to them as they seek to do His will towards us all. Congratulations to the Governor and the new Supreme Court judges! And may the peace, joy and righteousness of God multiply unto us all who love the same! Jonathan N Gardiner
COMMENTARY
The racing game, a fantasy
THERE were two classic racing cars, one blue and one yellow. Both had been around for years, constantly being changed. The yellow car only won four races and was disqualified, having to forfeit its trophies. In the first case the yellow car was found to be using an illegal fuel. In another case the yellow driver was able to overcome the driver of the noisy blue car but lost in the next race because the yellow car was carrying too much weight. Finally a young driver, more reckless than anyone, insisted on driving the yellow car. The noisy blue car had mufflers installed along with a
By David Tapfer careful driver who never took the car out of second gear. However he won because the yellow car had serious mechanical problems. After two winning seasons the blue team slowed down, never improving their racing skills. In fact, during the first race of the third
season just when it looked like the blue car was going to win again, it was easily cut off by the reckless driver of the yellow car. The blue driver found his car now actually stuck in second gear. Then it seems the yellow car kept winning. Running in overdrive it lapped the blue car so many times the fans went wild. The blue team changed drivers but could not afford modifications. The yellow car ran so fast it pleased all the fans and the pinup gal who celebrated the winnings. No one complained when expensive illegal fuel and a bigger, better engine that did not conform to the rules were used. The blue driver and team
complained bitterly to the officials but they did nothing. Suddenly new officials were appointed and the yellow team was disqualified for breaking all the rules, including selling part of the track. The yellow team finally retired their reckless driver and appointed a friend to drive. However all racing was suspended when the weather turned ill, messing up the race track. The yellow team does not know what to do except blame the officials for their misfortune. The blue team picked a younger driver who showed amazing driving skill in test runs. However the advertising wing of
the yellow race team spread false reports that this new blue driver had problems on a race course long ago and far away. The second gear blue driver was called out of retirement by older blue mechanics who decided if they could get their older driver re-qualified they could race their car and win again using the second gear system. The officials are now dusting off track mile markers and are encouraging independent drivers to race. They are raising ticket prices and are trying to recover track ownership before racing begins again.
14
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
October 15 - 21, 2011
NATIONAL
Looking after mental health RAISING awareness of the importance of mental health was the theme when TCI marked World Mental Health Day on Monday. Under the banner ‘The great push: investing in mental health’, this year’s aim was to promote understanding and improve attitudes about mental disorders. A Health Department spokesman said: “One in four of us will be affected by a mental health problem at some point in our lives. “And often, the fact that people find it difficult to talk about can be one of the hardest parts of having a mental illness. “Don’t be afraid to talk about mental health.” Islanders can visit the Division
of Mental Health and Substance Dependence on the ground floor of Sam’s Building in Providenciales or any primary health care clinics throughout the islands. The spokesman added: “If you have a friend with a mental illness or you have a mental illness yourself, take a deep breath and remember that recovery is possible. “Reach out to those around you with compassion, empathy and understanding; educate yourself about treatment and support options, and get the kind of help you or your friend needs.” Call 946-2937, 941-2800 ext. 72104, or 9462801 ext. 82504 for more information about mental health services.
Red Cross meeting RED Cross members – and anyone interested in joining – are invited to attend the charity’s next general meeting on October 25. The event will begin at 7pm at the thrift store in Leeward Highway and will include an update on branch activities and finances. Members are reminded that their membership will be automatically revoked if they do not attend three consecutive monthly meetings without apology. Apologies to redcrossprovo@tciway.tc or 941 8056.
Is your culture & lifestyle killing you? Part 5
NOW when it comes to alternate ways of regaining and maintaining one’s health, I have been told that some people have religious issues when it comes to Christians taking up yoga and meditation as described in tips number six and eight. I do find it interesting that the Japanese products bought and used do not cause anyone here to become a Buddhist. The Chinese products bought and used do not make anyone an atheist. The high quality Indian human hair that is weaved into the heads of our women doesn’t make them Hindu. The amazing movies we love to watch, written and directed by Jewish directors and producers, do not make us Jews. The Arab oil and gas we buy for our cars and stoves do not make us Muslims so why would a holistic system of exercise that can enhance you health and lifestyle but comes from India be any different? What you need to ask is, if your culture and lifestyle is killing you? Then act accordingly. Remember that the health of a nation is the wealth of a nation. Please feel free to email me at dbowen3@mac.com should you need to discuss your health further or wish to embark on a health rebalancing programme or lifestyle change coaching. Check out what is posted
BY DAVID BOWEN
Yoga and fitness instructor, health and lifestyle coach, natural food chef (Tropical Imaging photo)
on the Bahamas Ministry of Health website: Bahamas health statistics indicate high incidences of chronic noncommunicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, chronic respiratory disease, heart disease and cancer. For example, 45 per cent of deaths in 2003 were due to chronic non-communicable diseases. Preliminary data from the National Chronic Non-communicable Disease Survey, March 2006 (1,424 persons surveyed in 637 households in New Providence, Grand Bahama and Long Island) • 21 per cent had been diagnosed with high blood pressure • 26 per cent had elevated blood pressure • Seven per cent had been diagnosed with diabetes • 12 per cent showed impaired and elevated fasting glucose (often used as an indicator for diabetes) • 70 per cent were overweight
• 8.8 per cent were current smokers • 64.5 per cent described themselves as sedentary in leisure time • 47 per cent did not eat at least one fruit every day • 51 per cent did not eat vegetables every day • 33 per cent had fast food two or more times per week Often times, chronic noncommunicable diseases can be avoided through the adoption of healthy lifestyles. Far too many residents continue to make poor lifestyle choices that adversely affect their health and the health of their families. This more often than not translates into decreased quality of life and financial stress due to increased health burdens. Healthy lifestyle can be defined as a way of life that promotes and protects health and well-being. This often includes practices such as eating nutrient-rich foods that are moderate in calories and fat, exercising on most days, avoiding tobacco, drug and alcohol abuse and proper stress management. The Ministry of Health has decided to implement an even more holistic approach to helping residents adopt and sustain healthy lifestyles, in order to continue to meet the country’s health needs. Are you reading and listening and making the changes to your lifestyle, Turks & Caicos Islanders?
Spectrum of Hope Vol 4 –
autism awareness By Nicole Cox, a mother living with autism
Josiah, aged four
Spectrum of Hope Vol. 5
Move it or climb it – the choice is yours ACTRESS Julia Ormand won an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Eustacia Cutler in the HBO movie Temple Grandin. In a gracious gesture of genuine admiration, Ms Ormand gave the Emmy statuette to Ms Cutler at an autism conference. She made note that Ms Cutler, who is a well-rounded and educated woman of many talents, once aspired to being an actress herself. She joked with Eustacia telling her she could use it as a doorstop! This was a very humorous but obvious statement about the comparative worth of her performance in a movie to Eustacia’s performance as a mother of a child with special needs. But then, unscripted, Ormand says: “I want you to have it for all the doors you have opened. I want you to have it for the thing you let go – that you gave to me.” Eustacia’s book, A Thorn in My Pocket, makes plain to see the type of no nonsense approach she took to her role and how it changed the face of autism forever. One might say she moved mountains. Or maybe not… Times have changed for those diagnosed with autism and the families that must support them, but progress made in research on causes and treatments has drawn new mountains on the map. Who is to pay for treatments and how, lawsuits lodged by those believing their child’s autism was caused by environmental influences, lack of insurance coverage, inadequately funded treatment programmes and academic supports, conflicting information on treatments and causes, scarcity of the few research supported treatment options that do exist, legislation supporting aid for adults living with autism. This has not even touched on the social implications of preparing a world for this generation of persons with autism who are being treated specifically to take up relevant and productive roles in their communities. In between those with debilitating autism and those who have ‘recovered’ to the point of barely needing support are hoards of persons who desire to fulfil purpose in their lives but need the right environments and assistance to do so. What happens to these persons when their parents or caregivers die? What laws protect their interests? So many mountains to move! There are many advocates, mostly the families of those on the spectrum, fighting to shape our relative societies by establishing and defending the rights of persons on the spectrum. But if there is one thing that history has taught us in the way of fighting for civil rights, those battles will always continue, just on different fronts. Those mountains aren’t moving. I prefer Eustacia’s approach. She set out to find ways over, around and through the mountains that were set in her path. Rather than complaining about the mountains, she simply set her mind to pull Temple over them. Listen to what Julia Ormand says about Ms Cutler’s chosen path: “This mother met the challenges of motherhood with such courage. “She did not attempt to be her kid’s best friend. She said, ‘I’m here to give you boundaries. I’m here to do the tough stuff so you can walk through life empowered’.” Amazing concept: a parent that is only concerned with being a parent. Learn from me now, love me later! A sherpa to guide the child over the mountains of autism. Take on the system, yes, but never at the expense of time spent training the child. After all, a mountain climbed is a mountain moved! For more information on autism, email: DawnProgram@gmail.com Next week: Thieves in the Temple!
October 15 - 21, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
15
NATIONAL
Chiropractic boosts immunity 200 per cent AS OCTOBER is Cancer Awareness Month and the cold and flu season is right around the corner, I thought it would be fitting to share this crucial information with all of you. Many are unaware that the nervous system and immune system are hardwired and work together to create optimal responses for the body to adapt and heal appropriately. Neural (nerve) dysfunctions due to spinal misalignments are stressful to the body and cause abnormal changes that lead to a poorly coordinated immune response. Chiropractic adjustments have been shown to boost the coordinated responses of the nervous system and immune system. Subluxation is the term for misalignments of the spine that cause compression and irritation of nerve pathways affecting organ systems of the body. According to researchers, such stressful conditions lead to altered measures of immune function and increased susceptibility to a variety of diseases. In 1975, Ronald Pero, PhD, chief of cancer prevention research at New York’s Preventive Medicine Institute and professor in environmental health at New York University, began researching
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 54 articles in this document. Bi-weekly, CAPAA will update you on one of these rights with a comment.
RIGHT 11
THE RIGHT TO OUR NAMES AND PERSONAL IDENTITIES Ever since we are born, both boys and girls have the right to a proper name that identifies us and differentiates us from all
the most scientifically valid ways to estimate individual susceptibility to various chronic diseases. Pero was fascinated by the relationship cancer-inducing agents had on the endocrine system. Since the nervous system regulates hormone balance, he hypothesised that the nervous system had to also have a strong influence on one’s susceptibility to cancer. To support this argument he found a substantial amount of literature linking various kinds of spinal cord injuries and cancer. Pero found that these injuries led to a very high rate of certain cancers, especially lymphomas and lymphatic leukemias. This understanding led Pero to consider chiropractic care as a means of reducing the risk of immune breakdown and disease. Pero’s team measured 107 individuals who had received long-term chiropractic care. The chiropractic patients were shown to have a 200 per cent greater immune competence than people who had not received chiropractic care, and a 400 per cent greater immune competence than people with cancer or serious diseases. Pero concluded: “Chiropractic may optimise whatever genetic abilities you have so that you can fully resist serious disease.” At this point one should be
this week
Friday, October 14 to Thursday, October 20 Friday, October 14
By chiropractor Dr. Lise Cloutier, DC, FICPA asking themselves: “Who do I know who is frequently sick, always on antibiotics or has cancer or other immune-compromising disease or disorder?” In my practice, my patients know if they have a cold, flu, fever, infection; the first thing they want to do is come in for an immuneboosting adjustment. It will always help you heal faster and get well naturally. Your body needs no help, just no interference to the nervous system. For additional information, contact Dr Lise Cloutier at Courtyard Chiropractic Clinic on 339 1000, Courtyard Plaza, Unit 2E.
Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Association Your source for information on the rights and protection of children other people. We have the right to use the last name of our parents, and that this be inscribed in legal registry, as well as the right to a document of personal identity. All girls and boys have the right, at all times, to be called by our proper name; we also have the right to call other persons by their proper names, without offending them.
identity or sense of origin or belonging. Your name helps to identify your uniqueness and gives you meaning in terms of knowing self. All children born in the Turks and Caicos are legally entitled to a proper name for all purposes relating to the child’s registering and documentation.
CAPAA Comment A human being without a name has no
@ 1800-534-8256
Any questions please call National Youth Hotline
Join in the fun at Horse-Eye Jack’s in Blue Hills at its monthly full moon party tonight until late. A house DJ will be spinning the latest hits, late night BBQ specials on the beach, drink specials from 7pm to 9pm and Jello shots. Live music duo NaDa will be providing entertainment at Mango Reef restaurant at the Alexandra resort this evening. Starts 6.45pm. Call 946 8200 for more details. Get into the weekend mood with the intense and electrifying Tae-Bo class at Graceway Sports Centre from 6pm to 7pm. Free for gym members, $12 for non-members. For more information call 4426349 or email info@graceway.com Craig Archibold gets the party started at the Regent Palms from 7pm on Friday nights with the sound of classic Caribbean and Motown tunes. Call 946-8666 for details.
Saturday, October 15 Islanders are invited to support the National Cancer Society at its annual ‘In the Pink’ event. The bash to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month will take place at the Regent Palms in Grace Bay from 6pm tonight. A spokeswoman said: “Everyone is encouraged to come out and treat themselves to a day of shopping, fun and laughter, while enjoying signature cocktails created just for this worthy cause.” Mums and Tots Dance Party classes are held every Saturday at The Athletic Club in Saltmills Plaza for mothers and their little ones. Mothers, bring your little ones to dance, jump, twist and shake! Children have fun learning movement basics to fun music and mums get a light exercise while spending quality time. Mums and Tots classes begin at 10am and cost just $10. Dads are welcome! Call Shara Bowen on 244-1103 for more details.
Sunday, October 16 Feeling lucky? Win cash at the Rotary Club’s weekly bingo night every Sunday from 7pm at Club Pillows opposite the Veranda resort in Grace Bay.
Monday, October 17 Start your week with a fun and calorie-burning Tae-Bo class at Graceway Sports Centre from 6pm to
7 pm. Free for gym members, $12 for non-members. For more information call 4426349 or email info@graceway.com Girls and boys aged 11 to 19 years old are invited to take part in a fun singing group. The TCI Youth Chorale rehearses every Monday at 6pm at the Edward C Gartland Youth Centre, downtown, Providenciales. For more information call 3317176.
Tuesday, October 18 Join a complimentary ‘weight loss for wellness’ workshop at Courtyard Chiropractic from 6.30pm to 7.30pm tonight. Dr Lise will share her tips and tricks to shedding pounds for good. Sample her yummy vegan weight loss shakes as well. Call Condisa on 339 1000 to reserve your spot. Only 15 seats available. Live music duo NaDa will be providing entertainment at Mango Reef restaurant at the Alexandra resort this evening. Starts 6.45pm. Call 946 8200 for more details.
Wednesday, October 19 Kick back with live music from Soul Redemption at the Regent Palms on Wednesdays from 7pm. Call 9468666 for details.
Are you in need of inner peace? Interested in a healthy lifestyle and a toned and flexible body? Then you need David Bowen’s yoga classes at The Athletic Club in the Saltmills Plaza. Come along on Monday, Wednesday or Friday at 7am, Tuesday and Thursday at 6.30pm or Saturday at 9am. Call 941-8686 for more details.
Thursday, October 20 Celebrate good health with wellness coach Benneth Williams every Thursday evening. Come along to Williams Block, suite number six, on Lower Bight Road, Providenciales, from 7pm. There you will get a free wellness consultation and an hour of fun. For more details call Benneth at 246-0300 or email hls_com@yahoo. com
Got an event you wish to advertise? Call us on 946 4664 for a free listing.
Lifestyle...
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
October 15 - 21, 2011
fitness Tip
Why Pilates works well for men by Regina Radisic Movement expert
IS PILATES useful for men? After all, why wouldn’t it be? Pilates was started by a man, Joseph Pilates. Core strength, flexibility, balance, uniform development, and efficient movement patterns - all are hallmarks of Pilates training and highly relevant to men’s fitness. The integrative component of Pilates can be especially beneficial for men whose workouts often emphasise a part-by-part approach to muscular development, such as weightlifting. Pilates, by contrast, emphasises moving from the centre of the body, the ‘powerhouse’, and developing core strength in the deep muscles of the centre to stabilise the trunk and protect the back. This kind of core training makes Pilates an excellent technique for whole-body fitness, as well as a foundation for cross training with
Hot spinach dip
Ingredients:
• 9 oz (1 packet) of frozen spinach • 8 oz (1 packet) of cream cheese • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1 tsp salt
Method:
• Cook the frozen spinach with the garlic. Drain thoroughly. • Add the cream cheese and salt. Cook over a low heat until heated through. • Serve hot with crackers.
This kind of core training makes Pilates an excellent technique for whole-body fitness
other kinds of sports and exercise. Increasing flexibility is a goal that Pilates addresses in a way that men often feel comfortable with; one won’t find the kind of pretzel stretches in Pilates that one might find in gymnastics or yoga. Pilates works toward functional fitness. That is, the ability to have the strength, balance, and range of motion that allows one to move through daily-life tasks with grace and ease. Insights for men who are new to Pilates: • Walking into a Pilates studio for the first time can be daunting. A quick glance around will reveal a variety of odd-looking contraptions that you will rightly assume are ‘Pilates machines’, but you may not so readily imagine how your body could actually engage with them. • If you start learning Pilates by taking group classes, you might find that women outnumber men by quite a bit. That demographic is changing, and there are many men in Pilates, but for now, you’ll probably have to deal with being the minority gender, so be forewarned. • There is nothing specifically different about Pilates training for men, especially in the beginning. The Pilates method is the same for all. Developed on a man’s
body, and taught with input from both men and women, Pilates is founded on healthy movement principles for the human body in general. Men might find that their muscles are a little tighter than women’s, especially in the hips and hamstrings, but exercises can be easily modified to allow those areas to stretch out gradually. Modification of exercises is commonplace in Pilates, allowing it to meet a variety of needs in practitioners. • Pilates is a body/mind practice where part of the exercise is to bring one’s full care and attention to every movement. Exacting alignment and core training, that goes beyond the superficial muscles, require more subtle attention and micro-adjustments than some men are used to finding in an exercise class. There is none of the ‘just power through’ kind of attitude that men might be used to from gyms. This often becomes most apparent when working with the Pilates equipment, which, though it is resistance equipment, is not intended to be overpowered. In fact, sometimes the lightest setting on a piece of equipment, such as the reformer, is the most challenging for the core muscles. In Pilates, controlled, wellaligned movement is the ticket to a deeper level of fitness.
Joseph Pilates was a fitness pioneer
For more information on Pilates, private training or Thursday’s ‘Men’s Power Pilates’ class at 5.30pm contact Studio 90º on 332 9227 or info@ studio90degrees.com
TIGHTWAD
Tip
Seasonal veg
STOCK up on fall produce. Look for deals on healthy fruit and veg such as sweet potatoes, yams, apples and pomegranates.
Tidy freezer
SAVE energy with a quick tidy up in your freezer. Organise the drawers or shelves in whatever way works for you, label things you might not be able to identify later, and put items you use frequently in the most accessible drawer. This should help you save time and energy rummaging with the door open, and it can help you spot when you’re running low on products.
October 15 - 21, 2011
Lifestyle...
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
By JOAN LAFONTAINE
About face Make-up Tip
beauty expert
Caring for your skin MANY of you have acquired ‘cosmetic genius’ over the years and are well informed and skilled at makeup application, aware of what’s basic and appropriate for business/church/meetings, and what constitutes a more playful, party attitude (iridescent turquoise lids can be great fun in the right setting). I’ve been writing for those who are somewhat unsure of what makeup can and cannot do, and why fear shouldn’t be a factor in one’s ability to improve one’s appearance. Many women declare, ‘Oh I never wear makeup. I don’t have the time – I like the natural look’. Or – or the most frequent admission of all – ‘I don’t know how to apply it’. Lessons will continue each month. Skin care, however, is basic, and not exclusive to the cosmetically educated. Skilled artists realise the importance of a perfected foundation, like a clean canvas upon which to paint. A few tips follow. Tip one: Cleanse your face daily with a soap-free product (bar or cream), applied with a rough wash cloth or facial brush. The exfoliating benefits help remove dead cells – a necessary procedure that keeps skin from looking like flat paint. Performed nightly – or at least tri-
YOUR DIET
ASK TAMIKA
BY TAMIKA HANDFIELD
Tamika graduated from Florida International University in Miami with a Masters degree in Dietetics & Nutrition. She is a registered dietitian with the American Dietetic Association (ADA) and licensed to practice medical nutrition therapy in the state of Florida. Email Tamika via tcweeklynews@gmail.com or tamikahandfield@yahoo. com with your healthy eating questions.
Apply moisturiser thinly over damp skin, immediately after washing
weekly – exfoliation aids in keeping skin radiant and healthy. And remember, never sleep in the day’s stale makeup! Tip two: Moisturiser’s purpose is to keep skin dewy fresh, not slick and greasy, so apply it thinly over damp skin, day or night, immediately after washing. Wait five minutes for absorption, blot, then go for the foundation. Or go to bed. Your pillowcase should not be used to
absorbed an excess of night cream. Finally, tip three: If you find your eye shadow and liner forming colourful creases and puddles, it’s because you’ve either applied too much moisturiser, or you’re using a product too heavy for daytime use. Switch to a lighter cream, or just check the label for a product that indicates night time use. Yes, there is a difference. A moist skin is a happy skin!
health Tip
Get an iron boost with spinach LET’S take a look at the health benefits of spinach. Based on my findings, spinach is one of the most nutrient dense vegetables. It provides an excellent source of vitamins C, K, B1, B2, B6 and E. Spinach is also a good source of carotenes, folic acid, manganese, iron and magnesium. The iron content in spinach is twice that of other greens. Spinach is also one of the most alkaline foods. This makes it useful in helping to regulate the body’s pH balance. Spinach, like other chlorophyll and carotene-containing vegetables, contains one of the richest dietary sources of lutein. Therefore, it is effective in promoting healthy eyesight and preventing macular degeneration and cataracts. Spinach also has anti-cancer
17
properties. Studies have identified at least 13 different flavonoid compounds in spinach that function as antioxidants and anti-cancer agents.
By Phillip Simmons
Halloween treats don’t have to be scary IF YOU are a child, October means one thing—tons of candy on Halloween. While I do not celebrate this holiday, many parents cringe at the thought of so much sugar being consumed. Parents, there is some good news—it’s just one day and if this behaviour is not continued for the remaining 364 days of the year then your child should be OK. However, there are some ways you can celebrate Halloween in a more health conscious manner: 1. If you don’t celebrate Halloween, avoid any possible meltdowns by fully explaining to your child the reason why Halloween is not celebrated. Give them logical kid-friendly reasons they can use with their friends when they are being bombarded with questions of ‘why aren’t you coming?’ Try to find an alternate activity your child can do on that night. Many churches have started having functions on this night so you may want to start checking into that. 2. Help your children practice moderation. Once all the candy is collected, allow them to choose three to four pieces they want to eat and put the rest away. Once Halloween is gone, they may have one to two pieces if they ask for it. Don’t hide the candy or use it as a bribe but never allow children to have free access to it. You can also buy ‘minis’ instead of the fun size or regular size which have much more calories. 3. If you like it, don’t buy it. Sounds weird right, but it’s true. If chocolates are your favourite, then don’t buy chocolates for your kids to give away because you will be tempted to eat too many. 4. Change the focus. Don’t let the day be all about candy. As a child, I never celebrated Halloween; something changed and Halloween is now a part of our culture just like Christmas. We can change that—take your children to talk to their grandparents about what Halloween was like in their day or help your children do some research into the origins of Halloween or start a new family tradition. 5. Whatever you do on this day, make safety a priority. ‘Like’ my page, ACCU Medical Nutrition—Nutrition in Demand, on Facebook and receive up to date nutrition information.
Spinach helps keep eyesight healthy
ACCU Medical Nutrition is based in Graceway IGA Plaza, Providenciales. Call 946 8308, 242 3978 or 442 3978.
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Regional News
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
October 15 - 21, 2011
VIP World Travel Awards:
Caribbean’s leading brands compete Father allegedly kills sleeping children in Guyana for ultimate travel accolade – Grace Bay Beach and Parrot Cay are hot contenders ST LUCIA, Barbados, Jamaica and the Bahamas are among the nations that will compete head-to-head for the coveted title of “Caribbean’s Leading Destination” at a VIP World Travel Awards (WTA) ceremony in Montego Bay, Jamaica on 19 October 2011. Another key category to watch at the WTA 2011 Caribbean & The Americas Ceremony is “Caribbean’s Leading Hotel”, with Half Moon (Jamaica), Jumby Bay (Antigua), Parrot Cay (Turks & Caicos), Sandy Lane (Barbados) and Sandals Emerald Bay (Great Exuma, Bahamas) among the hot contenders. The awards programme, hailed as the ‘Oscars of the travel industry’ by the global media, will reward those destinations, hotels and organisations that have made the largest contribution to the travel and tourism industry over the past year. The ceremony takes place at Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island on 19 October 2011, and is set to attract the top decisionmakers and thought-leaders from across the Americas and Caribbean as they compete for the most influential accolades in travel. Negril (Jamaica), The Gold Coast (Barbados), Half Moon Bay (Antigua), Grace Bay Beach (Turks & Caicos) and Dawn Beach (St Maarten) are all in the running for “Caribbean’s Leading Beach Destination”. With boosting airlift considered the top priority for the region, all eyes will be honed on the “Caribbean’s Leading Airline”
category. Nominees include Delta Airlines, Caribbean Airlines, Air Jamaica and Air Canada. Graham E. Cooke, President & Founder, World Travel Awards, underlined the importance of travel and tourism in steering the Caribbean through the global uncertainty. “The Caribbean travel and tourism economy has demonstrated remarkable resilience, given the challenges faced by its key source markets in Europe and North America. In particular, our host Jamaica is enjoying an excellent year. Provisional estimates out of that country suggest gross earnings of almost US$1.5 billion during the first eight months of 2011 thanks to a 5.7 percent increase in visitor arrivals.” “This is testament to tourism’s role as the engine of the Caribbean economy with the power to steer the region out of one of the most challenging periods in global financial history.” He added: “Our nominees represent those organisations that have made the greatest contribution to the performance of the Caribbean, and I look forward to finding out which ones will make it on to the winner’s podium on 19 October.” John Lynch, Chairman of the Jamaica Tourist Board, feels that the Caribbean region has a strong brand. He said: “As a tourism region, the Caribbean has a lot to offer. Many of the world’s premium brands are available within the region and these are complimented by brands that developed in the Caribbean
and have earned world-renowned status. Caribbean people are also naturally hospitable and throughout history, have had to conquer several challenges. Our resilience is well honed.” Gordon “Butch” Stewart, Chairman of Sandals Resorts, is pleased to once again support the Caribbean on the world stage by hosting this year’s World Travel Awards Caribbean & The Americas Ceremony. He said: “At Sandals Resorts, we come from the region, we understand the communities, we understand the quality of the beaches and we understand the services and standards that the customer now demands.” “As we celebrate 30 years of providing Luxury Included® that exceed expectations, I can say that we are delighted to showcase those services and amenities to the travel industry once again this year.” The Caribbean & The Americas Ceremony marks the fifth and final leg of World Travel Awards 2011 Grand Tour, and will follow heats in Dubai, UAE; Antalya, Turkey; Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt; and Bangkok, Thailand. Regional winners from these events progress to the Grand Final at the end of the year. The event partners are the Jamaica Tourist Board, Sandals Resorts and WeClickMedia, while media partners include National Geographic Traveller, ABTA Magazine, ASTA Network, eTurboNews, Breaking Travel News, JaxFax and Travel Daily News. (traveldailynews.com)
“Days left” for Golding A DATE for the swearing in of Andrew Holness as the ninth prime minister of Jamaica has not yet been set, but well-placed government sources indicate that the event could take place shortly. “We have a few days to go,” a government insider told The Gleaner on Tuesday. Prime Minister Bruce Golding, who has announced he would retire as head of Government in November, has seemingly revised his departure timetable. “The person who is expected to succeed me in a matter of days has provided very strong leadership in transforming our education process,” Golding said during the launch of the Compete Caribbean Programme at the Wyndham Kingston hotel in New Kingston. Golding said human resource
development was a major area in which the country could focus its attention. He also said restructuring the fundamentals of the economy was a key task undertaken by the Government he has led but noted “there is still more work to be done”. “It is going to take a generation to position our education the way it needs to be,” Golding said. LONE NOMINEE Holness, 39, has been the country’s education minister since September 2007. He has been selected by the majority of Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) members of parliament as the man to replace Golding as prime minister. Holness has also been nominated to be the leader of the JLP at the party’s annual conference on
Caption: Bruce Golding has hinting of retiring earlier than he previously announced.
November 20. Golding said he was hoping to lead the JLP into the next general election but said the last four years have taken a toll on him.
A GUYANESE man is in police custody after he allegedly went berserk and slaughtered two of his three children in their beds in the county of Demerara. The two children who were killed were a 10 year-old girl and her four-year-old brother. The man’s other child was rushed to the city’s hospital with wounds to the head and other parts of the body. The man, 34, then attempted to take his own life, but he was stopped by relatives according to a local newspaper. The rage is purported to have stemmed from a disagreement between the man, who is a corn vendor, and his wife. Information revealed that the man’s wife left for Mahdia, an interior location, to work as a cook. The man then allegedly promised to kill the children unless she returned home. Up to press time the woman was unaware of her children’s demise.
In happier times John Blanchard and his family. (Photo Stabroek News)
Leader of the Opposition Portia Simpson Miller and other PNP members.
Jamaican opposition says government mismanaged economy THE Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) on Tuesday lashed the government for what it called the mismanagement of the economy over the past four years, resulting in increased public debt, ruining of businesses, doubling of poverty levels and a growing lack of trust for the administration. The PNP also scolded Education Minister Andrew Holness — the man set to take over the leadership of the ruling Jamaica Labour Party from Prime Minister Bruce Golding — for his role as a member of the Government, saying he needs to answer to the several errors committed by the administration. At the same time, PNP’s head and Leader of the Opposition Portia Simpson Miller, who Tuesday announced plans at a press conference at the party’s headquarters in Kingston for a second bus tour, dismissed the apparent momentum gained by the JLP from its imminent change
of leadership, calling it a “one or two-week bounce” which would soon be erased by the PNP’s team of youth and experience. “I’m not going to be taking any one week or two-week bounce to say the PNP is losing support,” she said. “I would like to give it some more time to see”, she added. Simpson Miller said the PNP has huge support among young voters, as evidenced by the turnout of young supporters at the party’s last annual conference in September. Commenting on suggestions that Holness, who represents West Central St Andrew in Parliament, could run for the West Kingston seat in Parliament, PNP campaign chairman Dr Peter Phillips challenged the incoming leader to order a commission of enquiry into the events in Tivoli Gardens surrounding the extradition of one-time strongman Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke in May 2010. (Jamaicanobserver.com)
October 15 - 21, 2011
Regional News
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Gas prices expected to increase in the Bahamas GAS prices in the Bahamas are expected to rise after the government announced this week increases in gas and diesel margins for petroleum retailers. In a press release, the Ministry of Labour and Social Development said that after consultation with the Petroleum Retailers Association, it was agreed to increase the gasoline and diesel margins. This change in the margin will result in a ten cent per gallon increase in the retail price of gasoline and a fifteen cent increase in the retail price of diesel. These changes take effect today. Oswald Moore, president of the Bahamas Petroleum Retailers Association (BPRA), said an increase in the margins means that gas will go up but not by a significant amount. “Gas prices have been going down. In fact, there is one chain of stations that is below five dollars now. In the near future, gas prices will go down even more, it’ll be about 60 to 80 cents less,” he said. “So the 10 to 15 cents increase will not burden the public like if gas prices were still high. Gas will go up but it will still be lower than it was a short time ago.” Mr Moore also thanked the government for “recognising the
retailers’ plight.” He said: “We appreciate they have considered our situation and understand our struggle. This is the first increase for diesel in 30 years and in 10 years for gas. “The public needs to understand that when the price of gas goes up and down nothing extra comes our way. “This extra money will help us try to stabilise our business and deal with the many institutions to which we are indebted.” These margin changes only apply to retailers. In August, petroleum retailers voted unanimously for strike action after the months of negotiations with the government stalled. Retailers were asking for an increase of 30 cents per gallon on gasoline and 20 cents per gallon diesel. Although the government has agreed in principle to an increase, retailers claimed they were given no clear timeline despite the urgent need for action. After the strike vote, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham said the government would revisit the issue when fuel prices go down and even consider deregulating the sector entirely.
Lancashire police officers to probe murders in the Cayman Islands DETECTIVES from Lancashire are being sent to a Caribbean island to investigate gang-related murders. After a rise in killings, four of the county’s specialised officers are being sent to the Cayman Islands to advise local police. The detective inspector and three detective constables are based in the county force’s major incident team. But the decision has been criticised by Lancashire-based taxpayers’ group Is It Fair because the force is having to make large budget cuts. On Sunday it was revealed that a 20-strong detachment from five North West police forces were travelling to the paradise island for a six-week deployment. Merseyside Police officers were pictured snorkling and sunbathing on Grand Canyon island. The island’s police commissioner David Baines, who is from Preston, has asked for help following a run of five gangland murders in nine days. A spokesman for the Association of Chief Police (ACPO) said: “Chief
Constable Jon Murphy, the ACPO lead on crime, is working with the Cayman Islands police and will be providing support to their ongoing investigations in the form of a team of detectives from the North West of England.” John O’Reilly, chairman of the Lancashire Police Federation, said: “Officers from Lancashire have gone over to assist with inquiries as the Cayman Islands are part of the Commonwealth and we are obliged to assist with major incidents. “It is a handful of selected officers who are specialists at what they do. “We won’t leave ourselves short in any way. This hasn’t even come on to the federation’s radar as an issue at all. “We will have appropriate cover in place.” A Lancashire police spokesman said: “Lancashire Constabulary was approached as part of a UK policing response and felt it appropriate to offer limited resources to assist in the investigation.” (www.blackpoolcitizen.co.uk)
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BTC to start recruiting ‘significant number’ of staff THE BAHAMAS Telecommunications Company will begin job recruitment exercises in about three to four weeks, BTC officials said earlier this week. Marlon Johnson, vice president of sales and marketing, said the company is expected to hire new employees by January. “We do not know the exact number of people we will be hiring right now, but we do know that we will start recruiting new people soon. “More than 300 people have already accepted the voluntary severance packages (VSEP) and we expect another 100 to leave before the year is out. When that process is done we will bring new people in,” he said. BTC employees began accepting VSEP’s in late July. The programme is a voluntary exercise where staff members can elect to separate or take early retirement from the company while benefiting from an incentive payment. Mr Johnson said: “We will not be hiring 400 employees but it will be a significant number.
We will place them mostly in customer service and in our new retail shops.” He said BTC retail shops will be a shopping experience like never before offering Bahamians top notch customer service. “Our objective is to deliver sales growth through a highly motivated workforce, providing exceptional customer service and operational excellence in a unique shopping environment,” he said. “We expect to have 50 retail stores covering the Bahamas in the next two years. Of that 50 at least 16 of them will be owned by entrepreneurs. How much they end up with is determined by the demand. But our goal is to empower young Bahamians and do as much as we can to prepare them for competition.” BTC will also introduce full service flagships, mini-flagship stores, stand alone dealer owner stores and shop-in-shop stores. These new branches will allow customers to experience a wider selection of products and simplify and increase the convenience of bill payment.
D.R. presidential election heats up on relations with Haiti SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic: The 2012 Dominican Presidential Candidates, Danilo Medina and Pelegrin Castillo differ in positions with respect to relations with Haiti. Candidate Danilo Medina told attendees at a rally on Monday that he would strengthen trade relations with Haiti if he is elected to the presidency. Medina said that he hopes to expand the border market in Haiti to more than 5 million consumers and that he believes the move will encourage industrialists, farmers and traders to invest in the region which would also increase employment. In the south of the country, Medina promised an increase in social programmes to help the thousands of families affected by floods caused by the overflow of Lake Azuei (brackish ponds) an area that lies between the Haitian and Dominican border. Candidate Pelegrin Castillo, said the issue of relations between Haiti and the Dominican Republic is not a problem of migration, social problems or human rights, but an international problem. He said that he has been speaking to Dominican politicians to change their approach on migration issues. Referring to recent statements by United States Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton who called for the
Danilo Medina and Pelegrin Castillo
rights of Haitian migrants, Casillo said: “I told Clinton that this position is unacceptable. What we are not faced with a problem [of] migration, we do not face a problem of human rights. Rather, we are facing a serious international problem caused by the collapse of the Haitian state...” Casillo said that the U.S. government knows that Haiti has been a failed state for some time and has not made ??the effort to rebuild it. “Every day, new immigrants arrive in this country,” Castillo complained. Voters in the Dominican Republic will vote for their new president on May 2012. Ten percent, or 900,000 Haitians live in D.R. (defend.ht)
BTC plans to introduce the newly renovated retail store in the Mall at Marathon by the end of November. Mr Johnson also said the company has started talks with unions for a new industrial agreement. (Tribune242. com)
Marijuana linked to mental illness – Says Grand Bahama Health Services chief psychiatrist
DR JEAN Turnquest, chief psychiatrist at Grand Bahama Health Services, said marijuana use is linked to the high incidence of mental illness and psychiatric admissions at the institution. She noted that marijuana is more potent today than in times past, and should not be taken lightly because it is a very addictive drug that can have a devastating impact on an individual’s mental health. In observance of World Mental Health Day observed on October 10, the Grand Bahama Health Services hosted a workshop for high school students at the Foster Pestaina Hall on Monday, under the theme, “The Great Push: Investing in Mental Health.” In her presentation on Drugs and Addiction, Dr Turnquest noted that peer pressure and dealing with the stresses of school and home and family life are some reasons why students experiment with drugs. She said marijuana and prescription drugs are more commonly used by teens to get high. Dr Turnquest stated that marijuana has many street names, such as weed, grass, herb, chronic, and Mary Jane. She said smoking marijuana can cause mental problems such as confusion, anger, tiredness and suicidal thoughts. “When I graduated some years ago...we never saw people coming to the mental institution who had been smoking marijuana, but now there are much higher incidents of mental illness and psychiatric admissions connected with marijuana use, so we are talking about a major problem,” Dr Turnquest stressed. She also warned that marijuana use can cause infertility problems in men and women.
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October 15 - 21, 2011
Kutcher’s other woman reveals they had unprotected sex in hotel room SARA Leal is finally telling her side of the story. Weeks after rumors began to circulate about a September affair between the 22-year-old San Diego beauty and actor Ashton Kutcher, 33, Leal has finally shared her side of the story -- and remarkably, it’s not too far off from the tales that have already been circulating. Things started to get steamy when Leal was partying at Kutcher’s Hard Rock Hotel suite in the wee hours of the morning. “He just came up and kissed me,” Leal said to the new issue of Us Weekly. Not too long after, the two of them and another young lady ended up naked in Kutcher’s outdoor hot tub. “I didn’t think it was out of the ordinary,” Leal admitted. “I wasn’t self-conscious about getting naked.” Did she consider the fact that Kutcher was married? Leal told the magazine that the actor claimed to be “separated” from Demi Moore, 48, his
Ashton Kutcher’s other woman, Sara Leal, revealed this week details of their tryst. (Photo: US Weekly)
wife of six years. Leal said she believed him. Some time around 6 a.m., things got a bit more serious between the two. Going into the bedroom of Kutcher’s suite, “he lost his towel and I took my robe off,” Leal said. “Then we had sex.” “He was good,” Leal shared. “It wasn’t weird or
perverted.” It was, she added, unprotected. The pair engaged in some pillow talk, chatting about astrology, religion and politics, and then had sex for a second time. According to Leal, Kutcher was unexpectedly tender and down to earth throughout the night.
October 15 - 21, 2011
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Dominoes tournament gathers pace SCORES of domino fans turned out to take part in Islandcom’s second annual domino tournament. The fun-filled event kicked off in North and Middle Caicos on September 20 followed by South Caicos on October 7, attracting more than 80 players for the first two legs. North and Middle participants poured into the KJ Foods outlet, all hoping for a chance to take home the local pot as well as Nokia Touch and Type phones with six months free service. The winning teams from South, North, Middle and Grand Turk will also receive all expenses paid trips to Provo for the final on October 22. The competition was tough in North as 26 teams vied for the coveted title. Juliette Lewis and Varlene Francis, of ‘Kool Cats’, took on defending champions Eric Robinson and Javan Seymour, of team ‘E & J’, in the first round – an unlucky draw for the only female team in the tournament. Despite their best efforts the ladies failed to overturn the defending champs who advanced to the second round only to be knocked out by ‘First One’, six to two. Due to uneven teams for the competition bracket, first round losers were randomly drawn to get back in the game. Team ‘Facile’ were picked to take on ‘Black is Beautiful’ in the second round, beating them out to advance to the quarterfinals.
‘Facile’ capitalised further on the good luck of the draw and made their way straight to the finals to face ‘Ruff n Tuff’ for the title. An exciting finale ensued with ‘Ruff n Tuff’ taking the title and winnings six to five – a very close match up indeed, further evidenced by the roar of the crowd as the winning team jumped up to celebrate their win. An equally exciting and competitive environment was seen in South Caicos. The event was set to take place at Kisa Services but the rain rolled in and the event was moved indoors to the Ocean Beach Hotel. The Big South produced 15 teams all certain that they would take home the winnings for the night. The first round was chock-full of excitement with ‘Doltons’, South’s only female team, making a big statement as they won six to five against ‘Experience’. François Borgelar and Wilfred Moline, of ‘Philomes’, also made a splash, taking their first game against ‘No Name’ six to nil and then knocking out Joanne Glinton and Luedell Goldman, of ‘Doltons’, in the second round after their impressive first round show. Once again a random draw was made to fill a vacant spot in the brackets, giving ‘The Shockers’ a second chance only to be knocked out by ‘The Tamarind Tree’ six to nil. ‘The Tamarind Tree’ then faced Javon Hall and Trofibio Clare, of ‘The Runners’, in the quarterfinals
Harold Gray and B. Spring of ‘Ruff n Tuff’ celebrate their win in North Caicos
who ruined their hopes of advancing to the next round. ‘The Runners’ would then beat the ‘Eagles’ to face ‘Philomes’ in the finals. As the crowd gathered to watch the finals the noise level in the room reached its peak. A close game ensued between ‘Philomes’ and ‘The Runners’ as both
Michael Jackson did not cause own death, says doctor MICHAEL Jackson could not have given himself the powerful anaesthetic that caused his death, the medic who carried out the singer’s autopsy has testified. Dr Christopher Rogers said it was more likely Jackson’s personal physician Conrad Murray mistakenly gave him too much of the drug propofol to try to help him sleep. He added Dr Murray had no precision dosing device in Jackson’s bedroom. Dr Murray has pleaded not guilty to involuntary manslaughter. His lawyers claim Jackson gave himself the fatal dose while Dr Murray was out of the room. The doctor told police, in an interview heard in court last week, that he was away from Jackson’s bed for only two minutes on 25 June 2009 to go to the bathroom, and returned to find the singer was not breathing. However Dr Rogers testified that Jackson - who was already heavily sedated - would not have been able to inject a lethal dose of propofol
Michael Jackson’s is alleged to have died from a drug overdose.
before Murray returned. “The circumstances, from my point of view, do not support selfadministration of propofol,” the chief of forensic medicine at the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office said. Dr Murray has admitted to giving Jackson 25ml of the drug to help him
sleep, and would have had to give regular extra doses to keep the singer unconscious. Dr Rogers said evidence found in Jackson’s bedroom included an empty 100ml bottle of propofol. But he noted that as Dr Murray had no accurate equipment to check the doses being administered, “essentially, the doctor would be estimating how much propofol he was giving”. “I think it would be easy under those circumstances for the doctor to estimate wrong and give too much propofol,” Dr Rogers said. He also noted the lack of sophisticated medical equipment in Jackson’s bedroom where the drugs were administered, such as resuscitation equipment. Dr Rogers said the cause of death was “acute propofol intoxication”, ruling the death a homicide. The trial in Los Angeles Superior Court is expected to last five weeks, until the end of October. If Dr Murray is convicted, he faces up to four years in jail. (BBC)
teams were drawn at five to five until ‘Philomes’ came through to win six to five. The ecstatic winners proudly displayed their trophies, cash prize and gift bags as they celebrated their big win. Islandcom will be in Grand Turk at Governor’s Beach this Saturday for the capital’s qualifying round
and then return to Providenciales at Horse Eye Jack’s on October 22 for the Provo qualifying round. The finals will follow, featuring ‘Ruff n Tuff’ and ‘Philomes’ and the Grand Turk and Provo winners. The champions will receive Blackberry Bold 9780s and $2,000 cash.
Rihanna named Esquire’s Sexiest Woman Alive Beyond her obvious talent and chart-topping success, Rihanna is downright sexy - even when she doesn’t try to be. Joining the ranks of Hollywood beauties Minka Kelly, Scarlett Johansson, Jessica Biel and Halle Berry, Rihanna has been named Esquire’s Sexiest Woman Alive for 2011. The Barbados-born singer poses nude, naturally, on the cover of the magazine’s November issue. But despite turning heads with her racy outfits and erotic dance moves in concerts, Rihanna reveals to the magazine that she doesn’t always think of herself as a sex symbol. ‘At the end of a concert, I don’t feel like I’ve been this sexy thing. Really, I don’t even think about it,’ she says. ‘Even if it comes across sexual — it has to be a part of my subconscious thought.’ One subject well-thoughtout, however, is that of ex Chris Brown. Rihanna gives an honest, and rather positive, opinion when asked about her current feelings towards Brown, who viciously
Rihanna joined an elite club.
beat her in 2009. ‘It’s incredible to see how he pulled out of it the way he did. Even when the world seemed like it was against him, you know?’ she says of the public backlash Brown encountered after the attack. Admitting she resented Brown for a period of time, Rihanna says she has put that behind her and is now ‘excited to see the breakthrough he’s had in his career.’
October 15 - 21, 2011
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World News UK unemployment total reaches 17-year high UK UNEMPLOYMENT rose by 114,000 between June and August to 2.57 million, a 17-year high, according to official figures. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said the unemployment rate also increased to 8.1%. The jobless total for 16 to 24-yearolds hit a record high of 991,000 in the quarter, a jobless rate of 21.3%. The number of people out of work and claiming benefits rose 17,500 to 1.6 million in September. Other figures showed a record cut in the number of part-time workers, down by 175,000, and there was also a record reduction of 74,000 in the number of over-65s in employment. The Employment Secretary, Chris Grayling, said that what the UK was now seeing was “the impact of the international financial crisis”. Speaking in the Commons at Prime Minister’s questions, the leader of the opposition, Ed Miliband, said: “A year ago ... the prime minister justified his economic policy by saying unemployment would fall this year, next year and the year after. Isn’t it time he admitted his plan isn’t working?” The Prime Minister, David Cameron, rejected the criticism and said he would stick to his plans to reduce the deficit of nearly 10%. “These are very disappointing figures that have been announced today and every job that is lost is a tragedy for that person and for their family and that is why this government is going to do everything
it possibly can to help get people into work.” CONFIDENCE The Bank of England recently said it would pump another £75bn into the economy through more quantitative easing (QE) to try to improve the business climate. The Bank’s chief economist, Spencer Dale, has warned the UK is suffering one of its worst ever periods of financial turmoil. He told the Reuters news agency that the economy was likely to get steadily weaker throughout the rest of this year. But Mr Grayling said the “important reason why we are pursuing deficit reduction” was to retain the confidence of commercial markets, and to encourage businesses to set up in the UK. He also said that the latest available figures showed that over the past year, more jobs had been created in the private sector than had been lost in the public sector. ‘GRIM FIGURES’ The TUC’s general secretary, Brendan Barber, called the latest set of unemployment figures “terrible”. “The government’s austerity measures have turned unemployment into a full-blown crisis - with job losses not seen since the darkest days of the recession,” Mr Barber said. “Worryingly, this is not simply the result of eurozone troubles. This unemployment crisis is state-
sponsored and areas like the North East are paying a heavy price, with over one in 10 people out of work.” The data drew a mixed reaction from economists. Ross Walker, from RBS Financial Markets, said the picture was not altogether gloomy. “The drop in total employment is bigger than people thought. But it is worth noting that it is almost entirely part-time,” he said. “So in the latest quarter, full-time employment - which to me is always the single most important indicator was down just 2,000 and it’s still up over the past year by about 124,000.” But Alan Clarke, of Scotia Capital, said the figures were a “disaster”. He added: “That (the data) shouldn’t come as a surprise because the economy is growing at half the pace it needs to keep unemployment stable. That’s not going to change anytime soon, so we should get used to numbers like this.” The chief economist at the Institute of Directors, Graeme Leach, said: “These are grim figures and are likely to get worse before they get better. But abandoning the deficit reduction plan will do the unemployed no favours. “The hope is that QE2 will lift the money supply and economic activity, but the ongoing eurocrisis is pushing the UK towards a doubledip with increasing speed. All this is before the threat of contagion has actually materialised. We are sailing in stormy seas.” (BBC)
‘Underwear Bomber’ suspect changes mind, pleads guilty in court UNDERWEAR bomber Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab stunned a Detroit courtroom Wednesday by pleading guilty to trying to bring down a packed airliner with an explosive hidden in his britches. The surprise plea by the Al Qaeda terrorist came as the first witness - in what was expected to be a lengthy trial - was about to be called. Instead, the Nigerian-born fanatic waived his right to be silent and told a federal judge he wanted to plead guilty to eight charges stemming from his failed Christmas Day 2009 bombing plot. “Are you therefore pleading guilty freely and voluntarily?” U.S. District Judge Nancy Edmunds asked. “That’s right, yes,” he replied. Abdulmutallab entered his plea after Edmunds reminded him that he faced life in prison. The failed terrorist was accused
Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab surprised the courtroom with his plea reversal.
of trying to blow up Detroit-bound Northwest Airlines Flight 253, which was packed with families heading home for the holiday.
Abdulmutallab tried to detonate his explosives and wound up setting himself ablaze. He was quickly subdued by fellow passengers.
Jose Manuel Barroso says there needs to be “more discipline” in Europe.
Barroso outlines plan to resolve eurozone debt crisis THE PRESIDENT of the European Commission, Jose Manuel Barroso, has set out a plan designed to bring an end to the eurozone debt crisis. In a speech, Mr Barroso said banks must set aside more assets to help guard against future losses. Banks supported by the eurozone bailout fund - the European Financial Stability Facility - should be stopped from paying dividends or bonuses, he said. The commission called it a “comprehensive response” to the crisis. It outlined five areas of action “designed to break the vicious circle between doubts over the sustainability of sovereign debt, the stability of the banking system and the European Union’s growth prospects”. Mr Barroso said the plan “charts Europe’s way out of the economic crisis”. “Reactive and piecemeal responses to different aspects of the crisis are no longer sufficient,” he said. The plan calls for five policy actions: Decisive action on Greece so that “all doubt is removed” about the country’s economic sustainability. This includes freeing up the latest tranche of bailout funds Implementing measures agreed in July, which include increasing the size of the EFSF to 440bn euros ($607bn; £385bn) and accelerating the launch of its permanent successor, the European Stability Mechanism Co-ordinated action on strengthening Europe’s banks. Banks should set aside more assets to cover losses through private funding or national governments if necessary. If this is still not adequate, they can tap into the EFSF, but if they do they will not be allowed to pay dividends of bonuses Speeding up policies to enhance
growth and stability, such as free trade agreements Building greater integration for economic governance across the eurozone. GREEK LOSSES Late on Tuesday, Slovakia voted against increasing the powers of the EFSF - the only one of the 17 members of the eurozone to do so. However, internal political wrangling was behind the no vote, and observers expect a fresh vote before the end of this week. In addition to expanding the EFSF’s powers, the measures agreed in July by eurozone leaders also included private lenders taking a 21% hit on loans to the Greek government. However, investors now believe both these measures are inadequate. They are calling for the bailout fund to be increased towards 2 trillion euros, and believe private investors will be forced to take a much bigger hit than the 21% suggested. The leaders also agreed in July to a second bailout package for Greece worth 109bn euros. The commission, along with the International Monetary Fund and the European Central Bank, has been in Athens deciding whether to release the latest tranche of funds from the first bailout agreed in 2010. On Tuesday, the three bodies agreed measures that Greece needs to take to bring down its debt levels and said they were likely to release the 8bn euros that country needs to pay its bills. Leaders have been heavily criticised, particularly by investors, for not taking decisive action to end the crisis. However, there is feeling now that such action will be forthcoming, analysts say, with all eyes on a summit of EU leaders on 23 October and a G20 meeting in Cannes at the beginning of November. (BBC)
October 15 - 21, 2011
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World News Ex-N.J. police captain, Charles Martina, didn’t tell women he had HIV before sex: prosecutors A RETIRED New Jersey police captain had sex with at least two women without telling them he was infected with HIV, prosecutors said. Charles G. Martina, 64, of North Plainfield, was arrested Friday after the women told Somerset County authorities in September that Martina kept mum about having HIV before bedding them. Prosecutors didn’t say whether the women, 45 and 61, were HIV positive. The unidentified 45-year-old was involved with Martina from May 2008 to June 2010, while the 61-year-old said she was the excop’s lover from February to August, prosecutors said. Martina retired from the Plainfield Police Department as the head of its narcotics and vice bureau in 2000. He served 28 years on the force. In 1998, he was one of two candidates considered for police chief, the Home News Tribune reported. Sometime in the 1980s, he was accused of sexually harassing a female officer, who was later awarded $19,000 in a settlement, the newspaper reported. He faces two counts of a diseased
Ex-New Jersey police captain Charles G. Martina, 64, was charged with having sex with at least two women without telling them he was HIV positive, a 3rd degree crime.
person committing an act of sexual penetration, and was held on $50,000 bail. Somerset County Prosecutor Geoffrey Soriano urged anyone who has had sex with Martina in the past 10 years to see a doctor and contact the county’s sex crimes and child abuse enforcement unit. (Nydailynews.com)
UK offers apology but no inquiry over 1989 Belfast murder THE UNITED Kingdom will not hold an inquiry into the murder of Catholic lawyer Pat Finucane in Northern Ireland in 1989, Prime Minister David Cameron said Wednesday, even as one of his ministers apologised for state collusion in the killing. “I profoundly believe that the right thing for the Finucane family, for Northern Ireland, for everyone in the United Kingdom, is not to have another costly and open-ended public inquiry which may not find an answer,” Cameron said in the House of Commons. Finucane’s widow, Geraldine, walked out on a meeting with Cameron on Tuesday when she found out there would be a lawyerled review, but no public inquiry. She told waiting reporters she was disgusted by Cameron’s decision and felt so angry she could hardly speak. “I am so angry and so insulted by being brought to Downing Street today to hear what the prime minister had on offer,” she said. The Finucane family has campaigned for a full, independent inquiry amid persistent claims of security force collusion with the murder gang. They suspect the
killing may have been sanctioned at the highest levels of the British government. Pat Finucane was gunned down in front of his wife and three children at his Belfast home in 1989. The pro-British loyalist paramilitary member convicted of the murder was a police informer. Just weeks before Finucane was killed, British government minister Douglas Hogg sparked anger when he told the UK Parliament some Northern Ireland lawyers were “unduly sympathetic to the cause of the IRA.” Finucane had represented both IRA and loyalist paramilitary members. “In the end, the greatest healer is the truth, frank acknowledgment of what went wrong, an apology for what happened. Let’s not have another Saville process to get there, let’s get there and do the right thing,” Cameron said, referring to the lengthy and expensive inquiry into the 1972 Bloody Sunday killings. The British secretary of state for Northern Ireland, Owen Paterson, apologised Wednesday on behalf of the British government for the murder.
Iran rejects US claims of Saudi Plot IRANIAN officials have strongly denounced U.S. allegations of a Tehran-linked plot to kill a Saudi diplomat in the United States. Some in Iran are arguing that the case has been fabricated to provoke a military confrontation with the Islamic Republic. The reaction from Tehran has been swift and categorical. A foreign ministry statement drove home the denials, condemning the U.S. claims as baseless and warning against the repetition of what it called “politically motivated allegations.” Saeed Laylaz, a political analyst in Tehran, said the case will take already fraught relations between the U.S. and Iran to a whole new level. Laylaz said even ahead of this accusation, he saw the possibility of a military confrontation between the two countries. He said he imagines the latest incident is potentially laying the groundwork for a U.S. propaganda campaign against Iran. That sentiment was echoed on the streets of Tehran. City resident Sadeghian, who did not give his first name, argued that
U.S. sanctions against Iran failed, so Washington is looking for other ways to create a bad image of his country to present to the world. Other residents in the Iranian capital placed the blame elsewhere. Javad Foroozan called the incident “a plot by the Zionists and Saudi Arabia.” Saudi Arabia said Wednesday that Iran must “pay the price” for the alleged plot to kill the Saudi ambassador in Washington. It wants to take the matter before the United Nations. Saudi Arabia has long had a rivalry with its non-Arab, mainly Shi’ite neighbor. The Sunni-led kingdom has accused Iran of plotting against it in the past, and according to leaked U.S. diplomatic cables, King Abdullah has wanted the U.S. to “cut off the head of the snake” - a reference to Iran. Tensions between Iran and the Saudis have only increased with the popular uprisings across the region this year, in particular when Saudi forces backed the suppression of a largely Shi’ite revolt in Bahrain.
As for “Zionists” - a term often used in Iran to mean archenemy Israel - accusations by Tehran against Israel are so common that it’s hard to gauge the seriousness of this current charge. But Iran is not alone in raising questions about the U.S. claims. Associate Editor Max Fisher of The Atlantic spoke to VOA via Skype, saying, “It’s certainly plausible that Iran might want to assassinate a Saudi official, but this kind of operation is pretty serious in size and scope, and the ramifications it would have for Iran’s policy. And it’s just not clear what they would get out of it. It’s not clear why they would want to blow up the Saudi ambassador to the U.S. And, in fact, there are reasons to believe it would go against Iran’s interests.” Top among those reasons, he argued, is that U.S.-Saudi relations, currently frayed over such issues as Bahrain, would be strengthened in a show of solidarity, something that could only hurt Iran. (Voice of America)
US senate vote to penalise China currency practices THE U.S. Senate has voted 63 to 35 to penalise China for its currency practices after two weeks of heated debate in which many lawmakers accused Beijing of predatory export promotion policies that have cost American jobs. The bill faces an uncertain future in the House of Representatives and has not been endorsed by President Barack Obama, but it already has provoked strong reactions from the Chinese government. For years, Democratic Senator Charles Schumer of New York has championed efforts to force the U.S. government to take action against China’s undervalued currency. The Currency Exchange Rate Oversight Reform Act would do that by treating currency manipulation as a foreign subsidy, triggering U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods. Schumer said the stakes are high. “If we continue to lose wealth and jobs to China, we may never recover [economically] as a country. This is serious stuff,” he said. Also backing the bill is Republican Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, who accused Beijing of a host of unfair economic practices. “The institution I need to be protecting is the American workforce, which is having their clock cleaned [is being beaten] by a communist dictatorship that cheats. They [the Chinese government] do not outwork us.
They do not outperform us. They steal our intellectual property. They manipulate their currency. They subsidize their industries. So enough is enough,” he said. Opponents of the bill label it misguided and dangerous. Republican Senator Orrin Hatch of Utah said, “We are telling the world community that the U.S. is turning inward once again, seeking protectionist solutions to global problems. At the same time, we would be injecting further uncertainty into our own economic recovery as our exporters and workers face potential retaliation from one of our leading trading partners [i.e., China].”
Chinese officials have warned against politicizing trade issues, pointing out that the yuan has appreciated relative to the dollar in recent years. Editorials by China’s state-run news media accuse U.S. lawmakers of scapegoating China for America’s economic shortcomings. Some analysts say the World Trade Organization would reject a U.S. bid to treat currency manipulation as a government subsidy. Last month, 50 trade groups representing many of America’s most vibrant export industries argued that the legislation would invite Chinese retaliation and should be rejected. (VOA)
Former Mexican wrestler held in deadly casino fire MEXICAN police have arrested four alleged members of the Zetas drug cartel in connection with the August casino fire that killed 52 people. Among those arrested Tuesday was former wrestler Jose Alberto Loera, known as “El Voltaje” or “Voltage”. Police also confiscated drugs and weapons. Last week authorities arrested
the suspected mastermind of the attack, Roberto Carlos Lopez Castro. The Casino Royale fire is one of the deadliest attacks in the Mexican drug war. Gunmen poured gasoline and set the casino ablaze. The Mexican drug war has resulted in more than 40,000 deaths. (VOA)
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Contact: 241-2920
5721
Must be able to work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.
5720
CONTACT: 241-8456
DOMESTIC
WORKER
SALARY $5.00 PER HOUR
Waitress Must be able to work 5 days per week Salary $6.00 per hour
Contact: 941-4540 BETTY COX Is looking for a
2 DOMESTIC
WORKERS LABOURER Applicants must be willing to work holidays and weekends. Salary $6.00 per hour. Interested persons should contact: Lilian Lorna Williams
649-243-3041
5723
SERVERS, GYM ASSISTANTS
Contact: 231-4162
5715
contact: 241-5922
Must be able to work 6 days per week
Kitchen Helper
To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.
contact: 231-6370
LABOURER To work 3 days per week Salary $150.00 per week.
Contact: 242-7753
5716
ASTWOOD ENTERPRISES
contact: 941-5010
– salary $6.00 per hour
5724
contact: 331-4048
per week salary $5.00 per hour.
5714
5681
Contact: 242-2228
To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.
5713
Salary: $5.00 per hour
To work 6 days per week salary $220.00 per week.
5682
HOUSEKEEPER
Cook
5718
2 MASONS
30
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
October 15 - 21, 2011
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
FAX: (649) 946-4661
NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION vacancy TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION
Temple Mortgage Corporation Ltd., The Temple Financial Centre, Providenciales HEREBY GIVES NOTICE that it will cause to be sold by public auction the following properties pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks & Caicos Islands:
1. Parcel No.10304/63
Front Street, Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands. Comprising of commercial vacant land only. The property is located across from the Tourist Board and a short walk from the new Carnival Center now under construction. Registered Proprietors: Robert N. D’Arceuil
The Financial Services Commission, a statutory body of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government responsible for the licensing and regulation of financial services businesses, is seeking qualified applicants for the post of
Head of Information Technology DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES The holder of this position will carry out the following duties: • Prepare departmental inputs and contribute to the development of the corporate plans and budgets of the Commission. • Determine technological direction of the FSC and the resources required to support the organization’s strategic objectives. • Manage operations and activities of the IT department as well as manage the delivery of information technology services to all other departments. • Manage information technology projects by providing project management guidelines, establish detailed project plans and project performance reports. • Assess and manage information technology risk. Account for and protect all IT assets. Develop and administer an IT security administration policy. • Develop and implement disaster recovery and business continuity plans. • Ensure the proper management, development and training of IT department staff, including conducting performance reviews. • Perform other functions as set out in the job description in relation to the post or as may be assigned by the Managing Director.
2. Parcel No.60602/133
Norway & Five Cays, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands. The property comprises of approximately 1. Acre of Land over looking the Providenciales Airport and the Southern Shores of the Island. Registered Proprietor: Gilbert F. Selver
3. Parcel No.60719/94
Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill, Providenciales, Comprises a main twostorey house with a separate detached guesthouse. Both homes are positioned on a elongated peninsular canal lot with approximately 400 linear feet of water frontage. The property therefore, has direct water access to the South Shore via Turtle Lake. Registered Proprietor: Daniel S. Simmons
4. Parcel No.60804/120/k57 (Unit #3503)
The Bight & Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales. Comprises a fifth-floor condominium at the Alexander Resort Development on Grace Bay Beach. This is a two-bedroom unit in the Prima Donna Building in the Northeast section of the Resort and benefits from extensive beach, ocean and pool views of the Resort. Registered Proprietor: Daniel S. Simmons
SPECIFIC KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED • Strong hands-on knowledge of IT operations management, software development and implementation. Sound knowledge of systems networking and hardware engineering. Must be well experienced in LANs, WANs, network administration (routers, switching, firewalls etc.). • Sound knowledge of network system security administration and database management; • Sound appreciation of project management principles and practices. • Possess good communication and report writing skills.
5. Parcel No. 60715/28 & 29
Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill, Providenciales. This development comprises of a Commercial property with 12 apartment units centrally located. This property also has room for future expansion. Registered Proprietor: South Bay Properties Ltd.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE • Master’s degree in Management Information Technology or Computer Science. • Eight (8) years or more experience in information technology including at least four (4) years in a managerial position. • Ongoing post qualification certification would be would be a distinct asset.
6. Parcel No.60703/44 & 11
Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hills, Providenciales. This a Residential located off Cherokee Road with 5.23 acres of land with excellent views of both the Northern & Southern shores of the Island. The property supports two detached residential homes. Registered Proprietor: Blue Coral Ridge Development Ltd.
OTHER INFORMATION APPLICABLE TO THE POST This position falls within Grade 3 of the Commission’s pay scale. Actual salary payable will be determined by reference to the degree of qualification, experience, knowledge base and other criteria that the Commission may assess.
The auction will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday 28th October 2011 at the offices of Temple Mortgage Corporation Ltd., Temple Financial Centre, Leeward Highway, Providenciales. Conditions of sale may be obtained from Temple Mortgage Corporation Ltd., The Temple Financial Centre, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, telephone (649) 946-5293, fax (649) 946-5289.
Applications should be received no later than November 30, 2011 and may be emailed to dmorrison@tcifsc.tc or faxed to 1-649-941-8379
Note that Temple Mortgage Corporation Ltd. accepts no responsibility in respect of the receipt or otherwise of sealed bids and prospective purchasers are encouraged to ensure safe delivery of sealed bids to Temple Mortgage Corporation Ltd. in good time and further to attend at the auction to ensure that the bid is properly made. 5726
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! the largest readership in the turks & caicos
5717
The duties for the above post may be carried out at either of the Commission’s offices in Grand Turk or Providenciales.
Interested persons may bid by way of sealed tender delivered not later than 4:00 p.m. Thursday, October 27, 2011 addressed to Temple Mortgage Corporation Ltd., Temple Financial Centre, Leeward Highway, Providenciales clearly marked “ AUCTION BID-OCTOBER 28TH 2011.” Should the bid meet the reserve price and constitute the highest offer, the property will be considered sold to the person making the bid. Note that a 10% deposit is required immediately from the successful bidder at the auction.
October 15 - 21, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
31 FAX: (649) 946-4661
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES MONTE RESTAURANT
• Established Law Firm urgently seeks to appoint Litigation Attorney. The • Candidate must be highly motivated self starter capable of building his/her
• own clientele rapidly with a particular emphasis on litigation and E-Commerce • Development and must have at least twelve (12) years experience of legal practice.
5732
The Senior Partner P.O. Box 678 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Must be eligible for membership for TCI Bar based upon English Qualification
ADVERTISE
Is looking for a
COOK
Applications together with resume, should be sent to:
R & B TIRES
To work 6 days per week salary $9.00 per hour.
contact: 232-1068 5737
IN THIS SPACE!
LABOURER Must be able to work weekends. Salary $5.25 per hour.
Contact: 946-8300
5736
Wishes To Recruit Senior Litigator
Is looking for a
ONLY
$30 PER WEEK CALL 946-4664
Butterfield Gold Group
Chevron Caribbean Inc.
Invites Applications for an
Is accepting applications for a
Terminal Manager Work Location: Providenciales, Turks & Caicos
Overview of Position:
Responsible for supervision of all terminal, aviation and distribution operations in a safe, reliable, efficient and cost effective manner. Fuel receipts, product storage, Inventory stock control and reconciliation, product quality control, equipment maintenance, project execution and product distribution in the area of responsibility, Turks & Caicos.
Key Job Responsibilities:
• Executes standardized processes, systems and metrics and improvement of environmental, safety and health performance. Ensures compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements and all applicable Corporate environmental, safety, health and commercial policies. • Accountable for overall Operations performance: Safety metric, business plan, maintenance program and execution of Capital Projects in coordination with District Logistic Manager. • Supervise marine receipts, product storage, quality control, aviation operations and ground distribution thru the area according with company standards. • Daily monitor inventory level, provide reliable data and reports in a timely manner. Accountable for stock control standards, daily and monthly product reconciliation. • Accountable for implement Terminal Maintenance Program, MOC and Processes. • Accountable for implementation and execution of contractor performance (on time / on budget) and Contractor Safety Management Program.
Assistant Manager/ Sales & Marketing Executive To assist with the overall daily management of the operations of T&C Refreshments Ltd., including staff, Warehouse, all aspects of Inventory, including product rotation, and Sales. To develop and execute Sales and Marketing concepts/projects for the Group. Duties and Responsibilities • Assisting with identifying and establishing contact with potential customers proactively • Maintaining contact with new and existing customers • Responding to sales inquiries from new and existing customers • Ensuring effective internal communication within the group relative to Sales & Customer support. • To identify opportunities for the development and enhancement of existing products. • Negotiating the agreement terms and closing down sales • Assist with the monitoring and reporting of the potential collaborators and competitor activities and identifying business threats and opportunities. Skills and Specifications • Excellent problem solving and organization skills. • Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills. • Tenacious work attitude. • Should be able to work as a team member. • Should have negotiation skills to deal with different kinds of customers • Able to meet deadlines • Highly innovative and proactive • Ability to work with minimum supervision Education and Qualifications • Bachelor’s degree in sales/marketing • At least five (5) years experience working in a similar role
Requirements:
Salary • Commensurate with qualifications and experience
• Engineering Degree (Mechanical, Civil, Petroleum, Electrical) • Proved experience in similar positions.
Please submit resume by October 22, 2011, to Butterfield Gold Group of Companies, Town Centre Mall, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands
Interested candidates are invited to send resume by October 21, 2011 to empleosrd@chevron.com 5642
5640
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
FAX: (649) 946-4661
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES WALKIN’S SERVICE STATION
JSMS/ PRICE CLUB
Is looking for a
Is looking for a
DOMESTIC
is looking for a
KITCHEN HELPER
Female Driver With own transportation must be
To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.
able to work from 9am – 3pm
contact: 241-2050
contact 231-3788
Weekly News the national newspaper of the turks and caicos islands
• Proper care and cleaning skills • Any other duties as may be assigned in regard to general cleaning Requirements: • Self-motivators • Able to understand and speak English fluently • Able to work with little or no supervision • Physically fit, dependable and hardworking Salary starting $5.00 per hour
ON THE WEB tcweeklynews.com
POSITIONS AVAILABLE
The Turks and Caicos Islands’ oldest and WRITERS / leading publishing house is in need of additional staff to fill the following posts:
PHOTO JOURNALISTS
Candidates must have at least five (5) years experience working full-time for daily newspapers and/or news/features magazines, reporting on hard news, features and parliamentary/court proceedings. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.
REPORTER TRAINEE Preferably a High School graduate or someone with an extremely good command of the English language for court and community reporting. Ability to drive and use a camera a desirable asset. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience. Position available March 1, 2010
ADVERTISING SPACE SALES PERSON Candidates must have had actual hands-on experience selling advertising space for newspapers and magazines. Ability to assist clients with the writing of copy for ads and gathering of collateral an asset. Salary is commission based. Position available October 30, 2011
Forward applications to: The Publisher Duncanson Publications Ltd. P.O. Box 52, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Email: tcnews@tciway.tc NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE Preference will be given to Belongers and Legal Residents Closing date for applications is November 14, 2008
Deadline for applications is October 22, 2011
Contact: George Walkin 231-6167
5681
Is looking for a
WORKER
LABOURER • Must be able to work on call also holidays and weekends • Must have (3) years experience Salary $5.00 per hour Belongers will be give first preference
Send resume to P.O. Box 954 or contact: 244-7130
5682
REQUIRED FOR LARGE RESIDENCE AT BLUE MOUNTAIN
ONE LABOURER Must be willing to work 6 days per week and required to be on premises full time. A demonstrated ability to work unsupervised with excellent communication skills is essential for the position. Work description includes maintenance to exterior of premises, car wash, garbage disposal, house repairs, dog care, full time security, etc. Must have a valid driving licence. Salary is $1,500.00 per month.
Belongers only need apply no later than 28th October, 2011 to P.O. Box 260, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands or by email to kb@mslaw.tc.
Pool and Beach/ Server needed Server needed for busy restaurant. Experience and knowledge of POS system in a must. Weekends, Holidays and nights
5727
FLOWERGIRL
DORN FULFORD
5680
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
October 15 - 21, 2011
call Tracy 941-8408 for an interview with your resume
Re -Advertisement of Winding-Up Petition IN THE SUPREME COURT ACTION NO W 6/11 PROVIDENCIALES In the matter of GBL Holdings Limited and In the matter of the Companies Ordinance 1981 A Petition to wind up the above-named company, of Hibiscus Square, Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands, B.W.I Presented on 26th September 2011 By: McCollum & Newlands, Attorneys for the Petitioner, 1 Caribbean Place, 1254 Leeward Highway, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands British West Indies Petitioner: Johnston International Ltd (In Liquidation); Address of Petitioner. 1 Caribbean Place, 1254 Leeward Highway, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands British West Indies Claiming to be a creditor of the company will be heard at The Supreme Court, Leeward Highway, Providenciales. On 31st October 2011 At 9.30 am or as soon thereafter as the Petition can be heard Any person intending to appear on the hearing of the petition whether to support or oppose it must give notice of intention to do so to the Petitioner or its Attorneys by 16.00 hours on 28th October, 2011 The Petitioner’s Attorneys are McCollum & Newlands, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands B.W.I Dated 11th October 2011 5730
5731
32
October 15 - 21, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
Is looking to fill the following positions:
Is looking for 2
LABOURERS To work from 8am-5pm. Salary $6.00 per hour
• Must be able to work 6 days per week • Must have at least 3 years experience Salary $250.00 per week
DOMESTIC WORKER 5689
– to work from 8am – 5pm. Salary $5.00
Contact: 946-7011
HAIRDRESSER NAIL TECHNICIAN Email: m-folkes@ hotmail.com 5690
NEAL’S CABINETRY & SUBCONTRACTING Is looking for a
CARPENTER • Must be able to work alone • Must be able to verify skills Salary $10.00 per hour
Contact: 231-1928
Is looking for a
LABOURER To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.
Contact: 241-3362
Been MEP Co. Ltd Requires fully
qualified electricians
For commercial and residential installations Must have at least 10 years experience in the commercial field. Salary negotiable depending on level of experience.
Please fax resume 5692
FAX: (649) 946-4661
ELIZABETH GARLAND
5691
HAIR IMPRESSIONS BEAUTY SALON NORTH CAICOS
to 941 7626
5694
CLOVER LEAF AGENCY AGNES SWANN
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
33
Global Tardiff Elevator Services (Turks & Caicos)
POSITION AVAILABLE Global Tardiff Elevator is seeking suitably qualified applicants to fill the position of:
Elevator Technicians
Job Opportunity The Sands is now accepting applications/résumé for the following position. Only highly self-driven & motivated, personable and professional individuals, who have the desire to serve others, need apply:
Executive Housekeeper Responsibilities • Establish and/or implement operating procedures and standards. • Plan and coordinate the activities of housekeeping supervisors and their crew. • Coordinate inspection or inspect assigned areas to ensure standards are met. • Handle administrative tasks. Requirements • Education: A secondary school diploma is an asset • Experience: Minimum of three to five years as an Executive Housekeeper is required Resort experience is a requirement. Applicants must have a willing, positive and personable attitude as well as be willing to work holidays and weekends. Salary will commensurate with experience.
Turks Island citizens only need to apply in person to Tiersa Smith, Human Resources Manager at The Sands Resort located on Grace Bay Road, Providenciales, the Turks and Caicos Labour Department, or e-mail: tsmith@thesandstc.com . Applications must be in by October 21, 2011. 5688
Re -Advertisement of Winding-Up Petition IN THE SUPREME COURT ACTION NO W 7/11 PROVIDENCIALES In the matter of Belvedere Developments Limited and In the matter of the Companies Ordinance 1981
Daily task will include installation and maintenance of elevators.
A Petition to wind up the above-named company, of Richmond House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, B.W.I
Suitable person must have the following qualifications: • 2 years experience of installation of MRL technology elevators; • 5 years minimum service, maintenance and troubleshooting experience on ECC and JRT control systems; • International Union of Elevator Constructors certification or equivalent.
By: McCollum & Newlands, Attorneys for the Petitioner, 1 Caribbean Place, 1254 Leeward Highway, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands British West Indies
Salary: $20.00 per hour
On 31st October 2011
Closing date for applications is Friday, October 21, 2011
At 9.30 am or as soon thereafter as the Petition can be heard
Presented on 26th September 2011
Petitioner: Johnston International Ltd (In Liquidation); Address of Petitioner. 1 Caribbean Place, 1254 Leeward Highway, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands British West Indies Claiming to be a creditor of the company will be heard at The Supreme Court, Leeward Highway, Providenciales.
Any person intending to appear on the hearing of the petition whether to support or oppose it must give notice of intention to do so to the Petitioner or its Attorneys by 16.00 hours on 28th October, 2011
Applications must be submitted to: Karen Simmons Missick & Stanbrook Leeward Hwy, Providenciales Tel: 946-4732 * Fax: 946-4734 Email: Karen@misickstanbrook.tc
The Petitioner’s Attorneys are McCollum & Newlands, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands B.W.I Dated IT October 2011 5695
5729
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
FAX: (649) 946-4661
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
Vacancies
TCI SCRAP METAL Is looking for a
• Director of Caicos Holdings • General Manager
Hotel Staff Welfare and Development Manager Responsibilities: • Maintain a positive and motivated environment for all staff. • Build rapport and loyalty to the property and COMO. This must be shared with all employees. • Coordinate Long Service awards with HR, plan and carry out long service award ceremonies. • Manage all staff accommodation inclusive of repairs and maintenance, purchasing, allocation, staff arrivals and departures, inspections, transport and health and safety. • Hold sporting events and parties at regular intervals inclusive of a monthly birthday party. Ensure these events do not exclude any staff member. • Purchase and control all uniform requirements for each department. • Embody the COMO brand values of Passion, Creativity and Style • Work with the Human Resources Manager to produce an annual budget for the HR department including staff accommodation. • Create the annual Training budget. Provide the Financial Controller, Hotel Manager and General Manager with financial reports as requested. • Monitor Department Heads training needs. Assist department heads with their training needs analysis for team members that report directly to them. • Create monthly departmental training plans and ensure these training plans are carried out and recorded. Coordinate external trainers. • Cary out COMO training courses, such as Practical Training, Train the Trainer etc. Qualification and Experience: • At least 8 years Five Star Managerial experience as a Welfare /Training and Development Manager within the Hospitality Industry. • A Bachelors or Master Degree • Must be physically fit and Sport oriented with the ability to organized and manage sporting events and other activities. • Must be able to perform well in a multi cultured environment. • Must reside on Parrot Cay for the efficient discharge of your duties and be on call at night to handle all emergencies and staff related issues.
To work 5 days per week salary $8.00 per hour. Contact: 245-7557
• Must be able to work on Weekends and Public holidays.
OTHER MANAGERIAL POSITIONS • Asst. Food & Beverage Manager • Executive Sous Chef • Executive Housekeeper Private Estates • Asst. Executive Housekeeper • Guest Services Manager • Spa Manager • Laundry Manager
5679
per week salary $5.00 per hour.
contact: 344-1183
CRANDELL LIGHTBOURNE Is looking for a
LABOURER
Kindly contact the Human Resources Department for an in-depth detailed copy of the job description for the above positions.
To work 6 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.
Job Requirement: Candidates interested in the above positions will be required to work long hours, live on property and are expected to work during the night, weekends and Public Holidays.
Contact: 343-1056 or 241-5615
LINE POSITIONS:
Reverse Osmosis plant operator Wedding Coordinator Pilates & Fitness Teacher Yoga Teacher Chef de Partie Line Chef Commis Chef Demi Chef Pastry Chef Sous Chef Butler Resort Butler Wood Carver Carpenter Massage Therapist Recreation Attendant Spa Attendant Spa Therapist Water Sports Instructor Food & Beverage Server AC Technician Maintenance Technician Electrician Turndown Attendant Room Attendant Housekeeping Supervisor
5699
GENERAL MANAGER Established Providenciales based real estate brokerage wishes to employ a General Manager to assume responsibility for its day-to-day management and growth The successful candidate will be an experienced manager in real estate sales and property management with proven people management, communication and organizational skills Computer skills including competence in a recognized real estate accounting programme and all Microsoft products including Publisher will be essential, as well as training experience and qualification in IT and product development The successful candidate will be a highly motivated individual prepared to work flexible hours Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience
Salaries for these positions will be paid base on qualification and experience. Please note that all application must be submitted with a valid Police Record, two reference letters from previous employers or a notary public and current educational certificates.
Interested parties, apply in writing to: P.O. Box 775, Providenciales
Only suitable candidates will be contacted for an interview.
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
5685
Forward your resume to the Human Resources Department at the following address:
Parrot Cay Resort and COMO Shambhala P.O. Box 164 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Ph: (649) 946 7788, Fax: (649) 946 7749 Email: joel.richards@parrotcay.como.bz
Is looking for a
Labourer LABOURER To work 6 days
Parrot Cay Resort and COMO Shambhala have vacancies for the following positions:
Managerial Position:
NORMA BUTTERFIELD
5680
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
October 15 - 21, 2011
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
5674
34
October 15 - 21, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES LEWIS WALKIN
LINDA GRANT Is looking for a
Is looking for a
LABOURER WORKER
DOMESTIC
To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.
contact: 232-7317
5684
Contact: 241-2920
5683
must be able to work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour
TOP O’ THE COVE
Need Dishwasher/ Cleaner Nightshift
R&M CONSTRUCTION/ EXOTIC HAIR & NAIL CREATIION 2 Is looking to fill the following positions:
Is looking for a
COSMETOLOGIST
To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour MILAGROS MALCOLM Is looking for a
GREENHOUSE
GARDNER
5675
To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour
Contact: 344-4540
5677
946-4694
LABOURER/ PAINTER/ CLEANER/ COSMETOLOGIST/ RECORDING ENGINEERING
Must be able to work on call and holidays salary $5.00 per hour. Belonger will be give first preference
Send resume to P.O. Box 954 or contact: 241-1857
5687
DEOMARDO CLARE Is looking for a
LABOURER 649-946-4734
5678
To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per week email info@misickstanbrok. tc or fax:
BABYSITTER To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.
contact: 242-4354
5679
NEEDED
FAX: (649) 946-4661
NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION Scotiabank (Turks & Caicos) Ltd. of Cherokee Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following properties pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands: 1. Parcel 60605/136, Norway & Five Cays, Providenciales. Comprising of a single storey residential development, providing four bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms and spacious general living areas. Located in front, a guest house with accommodations of two bedrooms, one living room, one kitchen, one ensuite bathroom and one bathroom. Registered Proprietors: Strashun Dakaria Williams 2. Parcel 60505/226, Blue Hills and Stamers Run, Providenciales. Comprising of a single storey development, providing three bedrooms, two bathrooms, living room, kitchen and dining area. Registered Proprietor: Demetria Latoya Simmons.
• Job requirements mopping floors/cleaning restrooms washing dishes/general maintenance/4-11pm • Hourly rate $7-9. Previous experience require. • Only belongers need apply.
MAJOR BEAUTY SALON
35
3. Parcel 10409/51, East Suburbs, Grand Turk. Comprising of a two- storey residential development providing four bedrooms, three bathrooms, kitchen living and dining area. Registered Proprietor: Warren Alexander Williams 4. Parcel 60003/73, North West and North Central, Providenciales.Comprising of a single storey residential development providing two bedrooms, one bathroom, great room, dining area, kitchen, one bathroom and a covered porch. Registered proprietor: Keisha Andrea Gilbert 5. Parcel 10303/49 Central, Grand Turk. Comprising of a detached single storey residential development providing four bedrooms, three bathrooms, kichen, dining living area, family room, laundry, outdoor garage and a tank. Registered Proprietor: Terrilyn Brendalee Ingham 6. Parcel 60003/08, North West & North Central, Providenciales. Comprising of a single storey development providing three bedrooms, two bathrooms (one en-suite), a laundry room, closets and a porch area to the front of the Property. Registered Proprietor: Alan James Percy 7. Parcel 10409/56 East Suburbs, Grand Turk. Comprising of a single storey building providing three main bedrooms, two bathrooms, spacious living areas as well as an internal garage. Outside land is fenced with overground water catchment
system. Registered Proprietor: Richard Peter Garland 8. Parcel 60716/138, Cheshire Hall Richmond Hill, Providenciales. Comprising of a detached single storey residential development with a gazebo, guest house, swimming pool and outbuildings. The property provides two bedrooms, two full baths, one part bath, a family room, living, dining and kitchen area. Registered Proprietor: Ronald Joseph Burton 9. Parcel 60003/123 North West and North Central Providenciales. Comprising of a single storey residential development providing an open plan living room/kitchen/diner, three bedrooms, two bathrooms (one ensuite), laundry room and closets Registered Proprietors: Nathan Glyndwr Busby and Sarah Jane Edge 10. Parcel 60505/173 Blue Hills and Stamers Run, Providenciales. Comprising of a single storey residential development providing two bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen and living area. Externally, there is a utility house to the rear end of the property. Registered Proprietors: Lenford Cordel Butler and Tamara Olita Munroe 11. Parcel 61113/147, Long Bay Hills, Providenciales comprising 0.51 acres of an undeveloped inland lot, well elevated and limited ocean views of the southern shores of Providenciales. Registered Proprietor: Darnell Laverne Penn. 12. Parcel 60610/184 Norway and Five Cays Providenciales, comprising of a single storey residential development, two bed rooms, open plan living room, dining room and kitchen. Alongside, there is a new two storey structure which provides a small one bedroom unit on each level. Registered Proprietor: Earl Nathan Tucker 13. Parcel 60502/186 Blue Hills & Stamers Run Providenciales, comprising of .28 acres of land on which a single storey building has been constructed comprising one bedroom, one bathroom, kitchen/living area and a screened terrace. Registered Proprietor: Barbara Jean Mills Hamilton
The auction will be held at the offices of Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Limited, Grace Bay Branch, Providenciales at 10 o’clock in the morning on Friday the 21st day of October 2011
A reserve price will be fixed on all parcels. A deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids. Terms and Conditions of Sale by Auction are available by request from Scotiabank Collections Manager (649) 946-4750.
36
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
October 15 - 21, 2011
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
FAX: (649) 946-4661
VACANCIES
Seven Stars Resort, Grace Bay Is now recruiting for the following positions; suitably qualified Belongers who possess the requirements listed below are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates should possess luxury resort experience, be out-going and friendly, with a professional demeanor and must be fluent in English, be a team player with a strong work ethic, available for work on public holidays and weekends. Salaries are based on experience and qualifications.
Maintenance Team Leader (Supervisor) • Suitable candidate must have relevant qualifications for this role • Minimum 5 years experience with a full service hotel and a condo hotel resort property • Ability to develop a comprehensive preventative maintenance program • Able to implement and carry through role with little or no supervision • Computer literate, financial budgeting, supplier knowledge as required
Room Attendant • Suitable candidates must have a minimum of 2 years experience working at a 5 Star Resort in a similar role • Must have a strong attention to details and exceptional ability to maintain the highest standards of quality required • Assist in all Housekeeping responsibilities, cleaning of guest rooms, stocking amenities and linens • Must have the ability to lift at least 50lbs • Perform any other tasks or projects as directed by Housekeeping Manager
Security Officer • Suitable candidates must have a minimum of 3 years experience working at a 5 Star Resort, in a similar sales position • Ability to communicate with fellow security officers • Highly trained in security procedures • First Aid training is preferable
Sous Chef • A Minimum of 5 years International experience in 5 Star properties with exposure to fine dining and volume operations, and a minimum of 2 years international experience as an Sous chef • Education: College Degree, preferably specializing in Hospitality Management or Culinary Arts • Sales/Profitability/Cost Control • Product Quality & Service Delivery • Sanitation and Housekeeping • Training and Development • Administration • Innovative and creative concept development • Strong leadership capabilities
Chef de Partie As Chef De Partie you will be answering directly to the senior members of the team. You should be a proven Chef de Partie with good skills and knowledge of kitchen
operations • Minimum of 2 years experience in high end restaurant operation • Hospitality or Culinary Arts qualification is desirable • Food Hygiene Certificate Required • Ability to work under pressure
Lead Servers The position will oversee service in conjunction with other departmental lead personnel. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, training, scheduling and directing service staff. • Suitable candidates must have a minimum of 2 years experience working at a 5 Star resort or restaurant in a lead position • Energetic with excellent customer relations skills • Fluent in English, written and verbal • Previous use of POS and cashier / bank experience • Hospitality or Culinary Arts qualification is required
Assistant Maitre’d The position will oversee service and report directly to divisional management. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, training, scheduling and directing all service staff. • Responsible for organizing and training of wait staff to ensure effortless and seamless service and upgrading their skills and product knowledge • Responsible for managing and rotating Liquor and Wine Inventory and expected to work within established beverage costs whilst taking monthly liquor and wine stock • Fluent in English, written and verbal • Extensive knowledge of foods & wines. Ability to contribute to menus and ever changing wine list • Computer literacy in MS office is mandatory • Hospitality or Culinary Arts qualification is required • 5 years experience in luxury hotel food & beverage operation
Position for a FO Supervisor The position will oversee service and report directly to divisional management. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: • Monitor the appearance, standards and performance of the Front Office Team Members with an emphasis on training and teamwork • Ensure Team Members have up to date knowledge of hotel products, services, pricing and policies as well as a good knowledge of the local area • Maximize Sales revenues through up selling and marketing programs • Monitor guest satisfaction reports and implement actions to improve results • Maintain good communication and working
relationships with all hotel areas • 4 years Front Office experience in 5 star property • Hospitality qualification required • Possess strong commercial awareness and Sales capabilities • Excellent leadership, inter-personal and communication skills • A passion for delivering exceptional levels of guest service • A second European language is required
Duty Manager To assist in overall Resort operations - responsible for the enforcement of all policies and procedures and handling guests concerns /complaints in the absence of respective Department Heads or Executive Management • Should be knowledgeable about preventive maintenance and emergency procedures • Communicates with Rooms Division Manager on all pertinent Front Office matters • Provides supportive functional assistance to all departments particularly Front Office • Interacts with Resort guests as well as members of the local community • Cooperates, coordinates and communicates with all departments through established channels • Establishes and maintains effective employee and interdepartmental relationships • Supervises Front of House personnel in anticipating sales opportunities to ensure optimum occupancy and average room rate. Promotes inter-hotel sales and inhouse facilities. • Reacts to situations as needed to ensure that guests receive prompt, cordial attention and personal recognition throughout the Resort. Responds to guests needs and resolves related problems. • Management of Duty Manager Log, providing timely information to all relevant parties and ensuring best glitch recovery practice. • You will possess a warm and welcoming personality, be a team player and be flexible with working hours. • Fluency in English and a second European language, and 3 years previous Front Office Supervisor/ Management experience is required.
Operations • The suitable candidate should have a minimum of 10 years Management experience in an International 5 Stars property. • Management proficiency in Gailleo, Sabre, Amadeus, Visual 1 and MBT is vital for the position • Waste management and environmental systems experience is also required
Continued
October 15 - 21, 2011 PHONE: (649) 946-4664
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
37
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES C & J Employment
THE ROSE GARDEN & OMARI
Service on behalf of J.S. Johnson & Co. (Turks & Caicos) Ltd.
is looking to fill the following positions:
VACANCIES Continued
Lead Front Office Guest Service Agents
2 Labourers 2 Domestic Workers Salary starts @ $5.00 per hour. Send application to The Manager, P.O. BOX 98, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands or call 241-1429
5635
• Suitable candidates must have 2 years prior experience in similar position in a 5 Star Resort in a similar role • Strong knowledge of Visual 1, Microsoft Office • To greet the customer and identify his specific reservation • To register the guest, ensuring that the necessary details are obtained, i.e. name in full, address, whether company or private booking, special rate, allowances, VIP, charge details, nationality, passport number, etc. • To allocate room according to reservations list, ensuring that this is what the guest has booked, both in terms of the room itself and the rate to be paid • To issue the key card • To liaise or alert the bell hop so that the guest’s luggage is taken to his room and the key issued • To update occupancy list • A passion for delivering exceptional levels of guest service
HOLE IN THE WALL RESTAURANT
FAX: (649) 946-4661 CHURCH OF GOD Is looking for a
is looking for an experienced
insurance Customer Service
Representative With minimum qualification at diploma in Insurance Level applicants should have between 10-15 years experience in general insurance marketing, claims and underwriting. Applicants must be motivated and have a good understanding of the client’s requirements salary range between $2,500-$3,000 per month (net) depending on experience and qualification.
Please send resume to the attention of Ms. Marjorie Ramsey, Human Resource Manager, P.O. Box 229, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands.
MINISTER To work 6 days per week salary $100.00 per week contact: 243-6890 5618
A store in the Grand Turk Carnival Terminal is seeking a highly qualified
Is desirous of employing a
Store Manager with four (4) years experience in the management of a retail store, which includes but is not limited to, inventory control, accounting, public relations, human resource management and computer systems (i.e. POS). Must be able to train store sales persons and cashiers. Knowledge of store brands will be a plus. Must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Business/ Commerce. Salary will commensurate with experience. Only Belongers Need Apply.
Kitchen Helper
Salary: $5.00 per hour Working hours: Monday Saturday 6am - 4pm. Resumes can be faxed to 941-3425 and the Labour Department, Providenciales as soon as possible 5738
Send resumes to: info@karammissick.com 5735
CLOVER HARVEY
Floor Crystallizing Specialist
Is looking for a
Requirements: • Must have at least 5 years experience as a Marble Floors Crystallize Specialist. • Must have at least 5 years significant experience for handling heavy scrubbing / crystallizing machines. • Wide knowledge of floor crystallizes chemicals.
DOMESTIC
WORKER To work 5 days
Gardener
• Suitable candidates must have a minimum of 2 years experience working at a 5 Star Resort • Must have strong attention to details and exceptional ability to maintain the highest standards of quality required • Must have the ability to lift at least 30lbs and push/ pull in excess of 50lbs • Perform any other task or project as directed by Management
per week salary $5.00 per hour. EXPRESS MAINTENANCE of Caribbean Place, Providenciales is desirous of employing
Closing Date : October 14th, 2011
5668
Catering Assistant • • • •
• •
Suitable qualified candidates should apply in writing or send resume Monday – Friday 9am-5pm @ front Security Gate.
Managing Director BNC Consulting Group, Ltd website: www.bnccgroup.com email: bthomas@bnccgroup.com phone: 649-332-2565
Interhealth Canada (TCI) Ltd is seeking to find qualified person to fill the following positions
The successful candidate should 5739
contact: 231-3417
VACANCIES
Two labourers Hours of work: 7am - 4pm Salary: $5.00 per hour.
Tel: 231-4794 5733
• • • • •
Have excellent customer service skills & Catering experience. A good knowledge of MS Office applications such as MS Word & Excel is must. Have experience of cash handing and generating daily reports. Performs a variety of tasks in preparation, service and delivery of food products and/or service operations (i.e. prepare, mix, assemble, portion, serve and store food as directed; receive, inspect, store, secure, disburse and control of inventory of foodstuffs, supplies and equipment). Serves clients which include staff, patients and families in public areas as directed, providing a high quality, efficient, friendly and client-focused service at all times. Performs routine food service operations to include operation of dish machine, washes pots and performs heavy cleaning duties; transports equipment, food, supplies and waste as directed. Have knowledge of food preparation, food hygiene and documentation. Be able to read, write, and speak English fluently. Be willing to work shifts and on public holidays. Be in good health and be able to stand for long hours. Have minimum 2years of experience of working as Catering Assistant is essential; previous hospital experience is advantageous. These positions seek individuals with no criminal record. Salary dependent on experience above min wage. All applicants must apply to athomas@interhealthcanada.tc. 5673
38
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
PHONE: (649) 946-4664
October 15 - 21, 2011
EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES
Napa Is currently looking to employ a
labourer Who will be responsible for the daily maintenace of the building, stocking of the shelves and any other duty that may be assigned to you.
Programmer Analyst Required to develop and maintain web applications and RDBM
Please submit all applications between 9am and 5pm Monday – Friday or via email to mariec@bayviewmotors.Com
Bayview view motors ltd., P.O. Box 619, Leeward highway, Providenciales
FAX: (649) 946-4661
5676
VACANCIES
BNC CONSULTING GROUP
Is now recruiting for the following positions; suitably qualified Belongers who possess the requirements listed below are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates should possess luxury resort experience, be out-going and friendly, with a professional demeanor and must be fluent in English, be a team player with a strong work ethic, available for work on public holidays and weekends. Salaries are based on experience and qualifications.
RESERVATION MANAGER • Minimum 3 years experience as Reservation Manager, and a total of 10 years experience working in a resort reservation department • Must be fluent in at least 3 languages • Experience in rate and yield management and e-marketing • Exceptional telephone sales skills • Full Acknowledge of Visual 1 PMS and Microsoft Office • Must have the ability to work on own initiative • Able to lead a dynamic team and or work well with other key managers and other staff • A strong communicator, motivator and coach
INVENTORY CONTROLLER • Minimum of 3 years experience as Inventory Controller • Ensure that materials shipped and received are verified against pertinent documentation • Establish and maintain procedures for determining and meeting the organization’s receipt and delivery commitments by handling materials and using time effectively • Recommend and assist in implementing operating procedures • Promote continual improvement within the inventory control operation • Follow receiving/shipping methods for materials using the established operations procedures • Resolve emergent issues for expedited deliveries to supporters and others • Confer and correspond with establishment representatives to rectify problems with receipts and with shipments as needed
Pool & Beach Attendants • Must be out-going and friendly • Have the ability to work on their own and be able to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds • First Aid training is preferable • Must have 1 – 2 years related experience working at a 5 Star Resort in a similar role • Provide towels, chairs & umbrellas and amenities to guests • Keep all out-side beach and pool areas free of debris, clean ashtrays and straighten chairs and fold towels.
Closing Date: October 17th, 2011 Suitable qualified candidates should apply in writing or send resume Monday – Friday 9am-5pm @ front Security Gate.
The qualified candidate must have: • A Bachelors degree in Mathematics/Computer Science or similar field • The ability to extract or define business processes from a company’s cash flow. • Experience in the following programming and domain specific languages: C\C++. Perl\Ruby, PHP, COBOL , SQL, Regular Expressions • Experience in the following Operating Systems: Windows XP/NT and Linux(RHE) • Experience in MySQL, Oracle and PostgreSQL (additional experience with IBM’s Websphere & DB2 considered a plus) • Experience in Mathcad or a similar modeling software (Experience in Telecommunication & Financial Services considered a plus) Base Salary Range: $16,000 to $25,000 (annual). Only Belongers Need Apply.
Applicant should submit resumes to info@ karammissick.com to the attention of TECSHACK LTD. c/o P. O. Box 926, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands
5734
Islands Pride Fisheries Ltd.
Vacancies One (1) Captain/Engineer for Commercial Fishing Vessel
Duties & Responsibilities: Oversee the safety of the crew, vessel and catch - Responsible for the service and maintenance of the engines aboard the vessel, including any attached lifeboats -Checking and recording the catch for each crew member, including self, catch from traps and ensuring both tallies with total overall catch -Deep-sea line fishing with reel -Assist the trap man to set and pull traps -Gut, ice and store fish, in common with the crew, including the captain/engineer Requirements: Clean Police Record -Two character references, including one from last employer - Ability to lead a team -Minimum of ten (10) years’ experience working in same capacity on commercial fishing vessel Salary: Stipend plus based on catch shared equally with crew
Three (3) Crew/Fishermen
Duties & Responsibilities: Prepare and maintain traps -Prepare bait for traps -Deep-sea line fishing with reel -Cleaning, icing and storing of catch -Responsible for cleaning and maintaining the vessel Requirements: Clean Police Record -Two character references, including one from last employer -Ability to work with minimal supervision -Minimum of two (2) years’ experience working in same capacity on commercial fishing vessel Salary: Based on catch shared equally with crew and captain
Managing Director BNC Consulting Group, Ltd website: www.bnccgroup.com email: bthomas@bnccgroup.com phone: 649-332-2565 5670
Only Belongers need apply. Application forms available from Butterfield Gold Human Resource Department. Only applicants selected for interview will be notified. Application deadline: October 28th, 2011.
5719
October 15 - 21, 2011
Sports International
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
39
Nadal crashes out in Shanghai to Germany’s Mayer TOP SEED Rafael Nadal crashed out of the Shanghai Masters Thursday to Germany’s Florian Mayer, beaten in straight sets 7-6 6-3. The Spaniard could not recover from losing the first set tiebreaker 7-5 and was broken twice in the second set by his 15th-seeded opponent, who said it was the “biggest win of his career.” Nadal summed it up after the match: “He played really well, I didn’t,” he told AFP. “I felt that I was not playing badly from the baseline. But my return, when he was serving the first serve, was
terrible tonight. I only won four points in the whole match on his first serve.” Earlier, defending champion Andy Murray had to battle past 13th seed Stanislas Wawrinka in a bad-tempered three-set match with the beaten Swiss player warned for racket abuse. World number four Murray raced through the first set but was broken in the second as Wawrinka leveled. Murray then raced to a 5-0 lead in the decider and despite losing his service again closed out a 6-4 3-6 6-3 win as he bids for his third straight title
after winning in Thailand and Japan. “I got myself pumped up right at the beginning of the third set. I think it was important,” said Murray. Spain’s David Ferrer beat compatriot Juan Carlos Ferrero 1-6 7-5 6-2, saving three match points in the second set. The victory means he becomes the fifth player to qualify for the season-ending ATP World Tour Finals. Andy Roddick of the United States beat Spanish seventh seed Nicolas Almagro of Spain 6-3 6-4 to continue
SENIOR ELECTRICAL DESIGN ENGINEER
Key Job Responsibilities • Responsible for the safe, reliable, efficient and environmentally sound execution of duties in support of product receipts and transfers. • Monitors fuel tank levels throughout shift, responds to alarms and is responsible for making visual inspections in the operation of tanks, Truck Loading Rack, and all terminal pumps and equipment. • Performs tank line-ups for the receipt and transfers of product to and from tanks per operational procedures and consistent with product integrity standards. • Assists in the performance of all activities related to Terminal maintenance program. • Assists with Stock Control Standards equipment maintenance program • Performs housekeeping duties as assigned anywhere in the terminal. Maintains all equipment in proper place and facility is maintained in adequate conditions.
The applicant must have extensive experience in the installation, including testing and commissioning of electrical and mechanical services. Applicant should have a minimum of 5 (five) years experience and a proven design track record on projects for condominium complexes, hotels, commercial and industrial facilities and residential dwellings. It is essential that the applicant must have a degree in his/her field obtained from a recognized University and registered with his/her respective Engineering Council/ Commission. The successful applicant must have the technical experience for solving design solutions and can work unsupervised in the preparation and issuing of mechanical and electrical design drawings. All applications will be considered from suitably qualified candidates who should forward a copy of their resume including relevant experience to the email/fax address below.
Requirements: • High school diploma, Technical education preferred • Three years (3) of acceptable work experience • Safety Oriented
Closing date for all application is November 14th, 2011
Please indicate the name of the position you are applying for in the subject line. Applications without subject line will not be acknowledged
5722
Labour Commissioner Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands
Is accepting applications for a
Work Location: Providenciales, Turks & Caicos
The applicant must be familiar with USA Codes and Regulations and should be a member of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Please copy application to: -
Chevron Caribbean Inc.
Position is critical for the terminal operations as it supports all areas of focus of Terminal in having safe, clean, reliable and efficient operation.
The successful applicant must be competent in the design of electrical systems: Power generation and distribution of power supply, performing electrical calculations, sizing equipment and performing computer analysis of alternate systems; must also be competent in the design of fire alarm systems and communication systems using the latest Auto Cad software.
649-946-8506 – Building Services Design Ltd. accounts@bsd.tc P.O Box 641 Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands
Rafael Nadal waves goodbye to the crowd after exiting the Shanghai Masters to Florian Mayer.
TERMINAL OPERATOR
Building Services Design Ltd. is currently seeking a suitably qualified individual to fill the following position.
Please fax your application to: - Email: Or mail to:
his fine form in China, while Ukrainian 12th seed Alexandr Dolgopolov ended the run of Australian teenager Bernard Tomic as he won 5-7 6-1 6-0. Tomic’s fellow Australian Matthew Ebden had better luck as he upset eighth seed Gilles Simon of France 6-2 2-6 7-6. (CNN)
Qualified candidates are invited to send resume by October 21, 2011 to empleosrd@chevron.com
5642
40
Sports International
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Former world champion David Haye retires from boxing BRITAIN’S former WBA heavyweight champion David Haye has announced his retirement from boxing. Haye, who turned 31 on Thursday, always said he would not fight on past the age of 30. “It has been my intention to retire from boxing on this day ever since I first laced up my gloves as a skinny 10-year-old,” Haye said in a statement. Haye’s last fight was against Wladimir Klitschko on 2 July, when he lost his WBA title in Hamburg. And he says he already has plans for life outside the ring. “I want to go into acting,” Haye told Sky News. “That will be my next calling. There are some things in the pipeline. I want to have the same success in my acting career as I did in my boxing career. “I have been offered a few things but nothing concrete. I am sure I can act well.” There had been speculation Haye could fight Wladimir’s older brother Vitali in 2012, despite reports earlier this week that the Londoner did not want to renew his boxing licence, which runs out in December. On Tuesday, Vitali’s promoter Bernd Boente told BBC Radio 5 live that he has been in talks with Haye’s trainer, Adam Booth, about a possible bout next year. But Haye denied that the
David Hyne feels that the time is right for his retirement.
announcement he is quitting the sport was a tactic in negotiations to try to secure that fight. “If this was something I’d just come up with last week I could understand people saying that,” Haye explained. “But I’ve been saying since I was an amateur that I would retire on my 31st birthday, so this is the day. “I love boxing, I love training, but you’ve got to call it a day sooner or later. Too many fighters over the years have gone on way too long. Now’s a great time. I feel healthy, there’s no damage, why not? “Vitali Klitschko did show an interest in sharing a ring with me in 2012. But since that initial declaration we have heard the wrong noises from Team Klitschko, which
has left me thinking there is little chance of the fight ever coming to fruition.” When asked whether he would consider another big-money fight, Haye added: “I doubt it.” Despite finishing his career with a poor performance, his trainer Booth said it was up to the public to decide where he ranked among heavyweights. “People will remember David as how they choose too. I have fond memories of the ups and downs,” he told Sky Sports News. Haye, who had moved up from cruiserweight to take the heavyweight title, lost it in a unification bout when he was beaten convincingly on points by Wladimir.
Rugby World Cup 2011:
Wales back on radar says Davies CENTRE Jonathan Davies says Wales have enjoyed going quietly about their business at the World Cup but realises they are now fully in the spotlight. An impressive 22-10 quarter-final win over Ireland booked Saturday’s clash with France, with the winner facing Australia or New Zealand in the final. “The huge interest has changed and put us on the map really,” said Davies. “We were quite comfortable going under the radar, making sure we did our own thing.” The performance against Ireland, in which 23-year-old Davies scored one of Wales’ three tries, has seen coach Warren Gatland make just once injury-enforced change to his starting XV against Les Bleus. Davies’ Scarlets team-mate Rhys Priestland has been ruled out with the shoulder knock he suffered towards the end of the quarter-final. That sees James Hook, who missed two pool games with his own shoulder problems, restored to flyhalf, with Wales record cap-holder Stephen Jones set to make his 102nd
Jonathan Davies takes on Ireland’s Sean O’Brien during Wales’ quarter-final win.
Wales appearance if he comes off the bench. “It’s obviously a huge shame for Rhys not playing, but to have two Lions coming into your squad we’re very fortunate we have strength in depth in that position,” Davies said. “I’m sure Hooky will just slot back in like there’s no change at all. “I’ve played a lot of my rugby since being a child with [Priestland]... he’s played so well with his kicking game and attacking the line.
“But Hooky has got the same quality so I’m looking forward to playing with him, I played a lot of the Six Nations with Hooky. “Steve’s on the bench and if he comes on it’ll be the same as usual, he can slot back and they’re comfortable whoever playes really, there’s no real selection issue. “A lot of boys are picking up bumps and bruises, but the sheer excitement of the game on Saturday is keeping us going.
October 15 - 21, 2011
Warner is caught on tape offering ‘gifts’ of £25,000 to Caribbean delegates TELEGRAPH Sport has seen the remarkable footage in which Warner, the controversial former vice-president of Fifa, appears to be recorded telling other members of the Caribbean Football Union members they must decide whether to accept the “gifts” of $40,000 (£25,000) each, and urging them to vote for Bin Hammam rather than Sepp Blatter in the Fifa presidential elections. The recording was made on May 11, the day after the money is alleged to have offered the money in individual brown envelopes, and is being used as evidence at a Fifa hearing this week at which 16 officials from the Caribbean Football Union are accused of violating Fifa’s code of ethics. Warner himself is no longer under investigation by Fifa after resigning on June 20, while Bin Hammam, who was forced to withdraw his challenge for the presidency in the wake of the scandal, has been banned for life by Fifa. The 16 officials facing investigation this week have each been passed the footage of Warner’s
Jack Warner was recorded telling other members of the CFU to decide on accepting the “gifts” from Bin Hammam.
address, which also features withering attacks on both Blatter and Uefa president Michel Platini, whom Warner warns will turn Fifa into a “French province forever” if he succeeds Blatter. Warner begins the meeting by asking: “Is there media here?” On being told there are no journalists present, he explains the detail behind Bin Hammam’s “gifts” but stresses they should not be seen by the outside world to have come from Bin Hammam. (telegraph.co.uk)
Americans in search of Ryder Cup revenge TCI-BASED North American golfers will be practicing extra hard over the next couple of weeks. Provo Golf Club hosts its biggest and most popular event of the year on Saturday and Sunday October 29 and 30 – the Hugh G O’Neill and Co/Caribbean Snow Removal Ryder Cup. It will be the 19th staging of the competition with the North Americans trailing their International counterparts 12-6. But despite having lifted the trophy just half a dozen times, director of golf, Dave Douglas, is predicting a close contest. He explained: “This is the big one when it comes to club members – the one they all want to win. The professional Ryder Cup between America and Europe is packed full of tension and excitement and our version is no different. “The TCI is a multi cultural place with residents from all over the world. Our membership reflects that too and it’s why this competition proves so popular. “The International team ran out good winners last year to extend their overall lead and I know that hurt the North Americans. They will be going all out for revenge this year and it should be
a fantastic two days golf.” He added: “One thing is certain – I wouldn’t want to bet either way on the outcome of this one.” Both sides will include 20 male and six female players of various abilities and handicaps, with the North Americans captained by Mike Adamo and assistant, Fraser Dods, and the International team skippered by Chris Bruno and his assistant, Will Shoreman. The competition will be decided by the exciting matchplay format with golf fans urged to come and support their side. “Spectators are very welcome”, added Douglas. “It’s free to watch and we have a great restaurant serving food and refreshments. A big crowd will give the players a huge boost and it will certainly be an entertaining two days. “The singles take place on the Sunday and they can be dramatic affairs and the buzz around the 18th green is fantastic. “Anyone who has watched the professional Ryder Cup will know what I mean and I can guarantee the TCI version is just as tense and as meaningful as the real thing.” The action gets underway on both days at around 8am with the pairs best ball matches on the Saturday and the singles on the Sunday.
October 15 - 21, 2011
Sports National
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
41
Five year strategy implemented to move sports forward in the TCI SPORTS in the Turks and Caicos will take a structured step forward as key stakeholders have pooled their resources together to implement and strategise a five year plan. The Commonwealth Games Association in collaboration with the National Sports Commission hosted the country’s first ever sports summit recently in Providenciales. The stakeholders, which also included the tourism board, brought
forth many facts that support placing sports as a priority issue. Information from the Commonwealth Games Association explained. “For example, sports tourism can attract more visitors to the country that will result in an additional boost in the economy and the tourist sector.” The attendance and the level of participation were very encouraging. The National Governing Bodies
New boys Kischo upset Quality Kings KISCHO, known for their softball exploits, showed that they are equally impressive on the cricket field when they recorded a three-wicket comefrom-behind victory over a starstudded Quality Kings team in a Twenty20 cricket friendly clash at the Downtown Ballpark on Sunday last. Kings XI (with the services of a few Police players) lost the toss and were tasked with batting first. The batsmen tallied 1749 from their allotted overs with
Police’s batman Kareem Jack leading the way with 53 (10X4s). Ancel Williams added 23 while Damian St. Ange contributed 21. Antoine Das was the pick of the bowlers with 4-15 from three overs. Kischo looked out of the clash in their reply after stuttering at 87-7, but the lower order took the charge and stormed to 175-7 in 19.2 overs. Pawan Kumar scored 52 runs (9X4s, 1X6) and Simijo Devasy scored a blistering 41 (6x4 2x6).
(NGB’s), Commonwealth Games Association and the Sports Commission all contributed ideas and worked together as a team to make recommendations that will be used in the five year strategic plan. This will develop the structure of the sports system in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Another benefit of improving our sports system, as outlined by the stakeholders, would be the creation of more diversity in the sporting disciplines for international participation. Dave Farmer, the Director of
Dave Farmer, the Director of Olympic Academy in Barbados, facilitated the initial meeting.
Olympic Academy in Barbados, facilitated the initial meeting. It was related by the gathering that having sports as a priority can address many issues, such as health: gender equality, increased tourism, and decrease crime rates. The topics that were presented are as followed: youth and sports, women and sports, elite athletes, parents as partners and sports as a tool for tourism development. The summit was sponsored: Royal West Indies, Club Med and Peak Consulting Ltd.
Super 7s Football League starts THE LATEST addition to the TCIFA’s ever increasing list of football leagues started last Monday with the Super 7’s Football League. Seven teams have entered the league which includes: Air Turks and Caicos, Pedagogue FC, HAB Harriers, SWA Sharks, Provo Golf Club Crazy Birds, AFC Academy and AFC National. The league will be played over ten weeks. In the opening game AFC Academy defeated HAB Harriers 5-2. Academy took a 2-0 lead through Jerry Liluce and Benji St. Amour before Jurgen Wildt pulled
a goal back for the Harriers. Liluce and St. Amour added another each and Jeff Joseph scored the fifth goal after Joel Maxime had given the Harriers a lifeline by making it 4-2. KWATT’S HAT-TRICK The second match was the closest, as AFC National twice came from behind to defeat Pedagogue FC 3-2. Daniel Clayton opened the scoring to give Pedagogue FC a 1-0 half time lead before Bobby Kwatt levelled the score early in the second half. Haroon Swaby appeared to give the
teacher’s team the win as he scored from a tight angle with three minutes to go, but Kwatt completed his hattrick with two well taken goals to seal the victory. In the final game SWA Sharks used their considerable experience to beat newcomers Provo Golf Club 3-1. Goals from Steve Thompson, Phil Shearer and Vasco Borges gave them a three goal lead before Jacque Etienne scored a consolation goal. MVP for Week One was Bobby Kwatt Games are played every Monday at 6.00pm, 6.50pm and 7.40pm
Josh for Sports
The importance of warming up and stretching for athletes THE very best kind of pride is that which compels a person to do his or her very best, even if no one is watching. Athletes and coaches, today, are totally aware of the all important rituals of warming up and stretching before attempting to work out or participate in sporting competition. Depending on the type of sport involved, the kind and intensity of the exercise may vary from a slow jog to calisthenics and then a series of stretching movements. This preparatory workout is performed with a view to improving physical performance and preventing injuries. This is a universal fact regardless if it’s in preparation to do weightlifting or training. PHYSIOLOGICAL ASPECT OF WARM-UP AND STRETCHING A thorough stretching routine, preceded by a warm-up which increase blood and muscle temperature, should improve athletic performance through the following mechanisms: (A) Increased rate and strength of muscle contraction. (B) Increased muscle co-
should be performed after a suitable warm-up in order to achieve the best results and reduce the potential risk of stretching induced injuries.
By Joshua Gardiner
ordination through related movements. (C) Improved cardiovascular and respiratory efficiency: -the adaption of the heart to exercise stress is improved and likewise oxygen delivery to working muscles also benefits. (D) Lessening of the possibility of injuries through increased muscle elasticity and improved joint range of motion. This aspect is also important for skill efficiency in football. For example flexibility is important in sprinting. Since temperature affects the extensibility of the body components involved in flexibility, it is important to remember that stretching routines
GENERAL WARM-UP One of the best methods of increasing body temperature is the stationary exercise cycle. This type of activity is also beneficial to the knee area and the most suitable way of preparing this joint for stresses of squatting, power cleans and the likes. In the absence of a stationary cycle, skipping or continuous Callisthenes for five minutes and acceptable alternatives can be done. SPECIFIC WARM-UPS This relates to warm-up activities specific to the skill. For instance after general warm-up and stretching, sprinters would indulge in a number of half and three-quarter pace runs. Specific warm-up for strength training simply involves commencing an exercise at a low level of intensity, example 40/50% of IRM, and proceeding with moderate increment until the designated intensity for a particular exercise is reached.
STRETCHING Summarily there are three recognised kinds of stretching: BALLISTIC Ballistic stretching aims to achieve increased range of motion around a joint by repetitive bouncing motion. This form of stretching while considered effective, has been virtually abandoned by most exercise authorities because the series of pulls or jerks on the resistant muscle tissue can cause minute scarring. STATIC STRETCHING Static stretching, an effective and popular technique, involves passively stretching a given muscle by placing it in a maximal position of stretch and holding it there for an extended period of time. Recommendations for the optimal time for holding this stretched position range from 10-60 seconds. A good compromise would be 20-30 seconds. Repeating the stretch of each muscle three to four times, “maximal position stretching,” to the point of moderate discomfort.
PNF (PROPRIOCEPTIVE NEUROMUSCULAR FACILITATION) This is a form of stretching that combines static stretching and muscle contraction. One disadvantage of some forms of this technique is that they require a partner. There are a number of different PNF techniques for stretching, including slow-reversal-hold, contract-relay methods. The simplest of these and equally effective is the hold-relax method. If one uses a common hamstring stretching while you are on your back with knee extended and ankle flexed at a 90 degree angle, a partner passively flexes your leg at the hip joint to the point where modern discomfort is felt. At this point you begin to push against your partner’s resistance by contracting the hamstring muscle group. The resistance by your partner is such that there is no reverse movement; example it is an isometric contraction. This contraction should never be explosive, but should involve a gradual increase in effort for the first two seconds which is then sustained for an additional four seconds. Let’s do it right or not at all.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
October 15 - 21, 2011
TCI female footballers gained experience in Jamaica – TCIFA Technical Director A TCIFA Girls’ Selected team gained valuable experience against powerhouse Jamaica during a recently “friendly” trip there, opines Technical Director of the local governing body, Matthew Green. The young squad scored in both of their losses (3-1 each) against the strong Jamaican U-15 national team. The squad, comprising mainly of players from the TCIFA U-14 and U-16 Academies, was boosted with three experienced players who played against the Jamaican U-20 national team in 2009, however for ten of the fifteen girls that travelled this was their first taste of international football. Green pointed out that: “The trip was designed to expose the young players to all that comes with playing at the international level. The team followed a strict itinerary, dress code and diet in an effort to give them a taste of what it is like to be a professional football player.” He added that the players: “came back with a wealth of experience that will help them in the future.” THE GAMES The games themselves were a big learning experience for the young team as several players had been playing for less than a year. Nerves were a factor in the opening half of the first clash as the TCI team trailed 2-0 before Sarah Cenary pulled one back with a well taken goal. In the second half the TCI team pushed for an equaliser, but the Jamaican goalkeeper pulled off two tremendous saves to deny Cenary more goals before the opposition added a third and sealed the game. The coaching staff made several changes for the second game which was played in wet conditions on a “muddy” field. Despite this disadvantage the TCI team played much better, and according to Green: “If not for a few poor refereeing decisions [they] could have won the game”. The Jamaicans went 2-0 ahead as the TCI players lost their footing on the slippery grass. Then Pekiera Brooks scored the goal of the week with a thirty yard free kick, but again Cenary’s efforts were thwarted by some first rated goalkeeping. Team TCI continued to press for an equaliser before the Jamaicans scored from a “dubious” free kick. The technical director explained
Wali Jones in his prime.
NBA great Wali Jones to conduct “Tournament of Champs” training session
The young footballers who represented the TCI in Jamaica.
that: “Late in the game Arnelle Taylor was clean through on goal and was pushed over by a Jamaican defender and even though [the] home crowd screamed for a penalty it was not given by the referee. The TCI girls had dominated the second half and proved that they could compete against the strongest women’s footballing nation in the region.” Green said throughout the trip the girls were excellent ambassadors for the association and the country and he was pleased with their performance on and off the field: “Our girls have been an absolute pleasure to be around. Their conduct, discipline and behaviour have been impeccable and they have proved that they have the potential to become a very good team. These players will be around for a long time at U-20 level which bodes well for the future.” IMPROVING Head coach Paul Collis was satisfied with the overall performance of his players and noted that they improved as the trip went on: “In the first game we were a bit nervous, but by the second game we were more confident and prepared. This experience was great for the girls and it was pleasing to see how well we impressed the Jamaican fans, who gave our girls a lot of praise and encouragement.” Assistant coach Patrice SeniorClayton felt that despite the difference in size between the two countries, the TCI players can continue to rise above expectation, “our women’s programme continues to grow and we now have much more female players coming through than ever before. Hopefully more
NBA great Wali Jones of the World Champions Philadelphia 76ers will be conducting a “Tournament of Champs” training session this Saturday Oct 15th from 10-12pm for the first 100 children at the GLS Complex downtown. The former starting guard (1976-77) for the 76ers was well received by Director of Sports Mr. Alvin Parker. Parker expressed his excitement and gratitude to Mr. Jones and the organisers of this event. He further state that it is his hope: “That in the future these types
girls and women will realise the opportunities that football can create for them”. The result was pleasing to the entire association and General Secretary Sonia Bien-Aime opined that. “Both the coaches and team manager, Paula Garland proved that they have the knowledge and the experience to take our girls forward. We have a good set of players and the right people in charge to lead them, this is a good sign for our future development.” The next test for the girls will be against the US Virgin Islands senior team in December.
of events and training will be made possible to all the islands so all our children can reap the same benefits.” The training session is geared towards basketball skill enhancement. Parker added that he would like: “To encourage the Basketball Federation to take advantage of these charitable clinics which can only enhance and further develop their sports”. As a plus one lucky camper will win an autographed basketball by Alonzo Mourning. The camp is sponsored by Somerset Resort and Tropical Shipping.
Provo Softball League:
Silver Deep Cruisers take title – Men side in sight of overall victory THE SILVER Deep Cruisers played undefeated in their championship series against Kia Rulay to retain the title as best female softball team in Providenciales. After winning their opening game, the ladies won their other two games (15-12 and then 10-5) to ensure that their best-in-five series was won without any effort. The male Silver Deep players, the Sharks, also took control of their series and are one win away from the title against Kischo. After winning the first game 11-4, they forked up another victory on Sunday 10-3. Arthur and Paola Dean of Silver Deep Charter are the long time sponsors of both teams.
2011 Provo Softball League female champions the Silver Deep Cruisers
October 15 - 21, 2011
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
October 15 - 21, 2011