Weekly News Volume 28 | No. 37 | September 13 - 19, 2014
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Turks and Caicos
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Jury trial
appeal denied Ten defendants who are accused of playing a significant role in serious Government corruption are to face trial by judge alone. PAGE 5
Government appoints new senior staff
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Alexia Durham, Charlene Higgs, Deputy Governor Anya Williams, Shonia Thomas Been and Andre Mills
Public consultation on constitution starts September 16 PAGE 4
Part built PAGE 8 luxury resort to be redeveloped
Gov’t and Opposition to work together for constitutional change PAGE 5
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
September 13 - 19, 2014
September 13 - 19, 2014
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
September 13 - 19, 2014
Public consultation on constitution starts September 16 By Delana Isles FROM the preamble, to the conclusion, to the miscellaneous, the 2011 Constitution is said to be regressive, riddled with ambiguity and inconsistencies and desperately in need of adjustment. Hence, the public is being invited out to tell the Government, elected officials and other specially selected persons just what they want reflected in the document upon which the fundamental principles of the Turks and Caicos Islands is governed. The process is being spearheaded by an eight-member committee, which is made up of Government, Opposition and private members. They met for the first time to strategize last week Friday, September 5. The committee is mandated to review the document, hold consultations with the public and make recommendations to the House of Assembly for the constitutional changes to be debated and ratified by the house, then forwarded to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). On Wednesday this past week, (September 10), the members called on the local media to assist them in getting the message out to the public and to encourage all residents to come out and let their voices be heard when the meetings start on September 16 in Grand Turk. Chairman of the committee, Daniel Malcolm told the press that the Government and the people of the country have a duty to revisit the document and to try to effect change wherever necessary. “Some people may believe that this is a cosmetic exercise which is not likely to get sufficient input
“We can’t do it without you” Daniel Malcolm, chairman of the Constitutional Reform Committee
from the British Government; I don’t think so. “I think if we get together and I think if we demonstrate that we are the representatives of the people, that we are reasonable, that we understand what constitutions are like, and we know what should be in our constitution; I think they will sit up and take notice,” Malcolm said. He noted that even if not everything that is asked for is approved, he believes that much like what occurred in 2006 when the views of the people were taken into account, the same will happen again in 2014. “We have a strong team; we have probably one of the best teams that could be assembled at this time, and we expect great things. “This is the public’s exercise, not ours.” He said the members are there to “faithfully reproduce what the public wants, not to foist our ideas and opinions on the public.” Malcolm added that they would be explaining to attendees what the exercise is all about and what the constitution entails to give people a basic grasp of the elements of concern in the document. “We can’t do it without you,” he implored. Asked what makes the Government certain that the British will consider the views this time, the Chairman said “We have every reason to believe that they will sit down and take notice of it.” He expressed confidence that the submissions that will be put forward to the UK will be measured,
Published by Turks & Caicos News Company Ltd. Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales P.O. Box 52, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI W. Blythe Duncanson - Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Rebecca Bird - News Editor Delana Isles - Senior Reporter Daisy Handfield - Staff Reporter Faizool Deo - Sports Editor (At Large) Cord Garrido-Lowe - Graphics Consultant (At Large) Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams - Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com
reasonable and that most of them are going to be accepted. He recalled that in 2011, when Kate Sullivan of New Zealand conducted the exercise, the public perception was that the views of the people were not sufficiently incorporated into the 2011 document. “Our people came out and they were very, very vehement in expressing their views to Mrs Sullivan.” He further pointed out that the Sullivan led exercise was carried out in the absence of a democratically elected Government. When asked what was wrong with the constitution, the chairman said: “Everything, from the preamble to the conclusion, to the miscellaneous.” He added that all of these sections would be scrutinised, explained and discussed. “We have nine parts that the members are going to take and they are going to explain to the people what this nonsense is about. “And they will ask for feedback as to whether they want that Constitution to continue or whether or not we are going to make submissions to the British Government for a proper Constitution.” One issue he raised was the provision made within the document for a Chief Financial Officer (CFO). This is one of the main issues. The main concern, as expressed, is that it ties the hands of the Government as it relates to the allocation of money, as the Premier and/or the Finance Minister are
unable to sign off on money beyond a certain amount. The chairman also listed the fact that the Government is a minority government in the House of Assembly as another problem. This is due to the two Governor’s appointed members in the house who hold the swing votes on any legislative or other action within the assembly. This has been in stark evidence recently, when the two members have been voting with the Opposition, albeit citing different reasons. Most notably was the aggressive opposition and subsequent defeat of the unpopular Payroll Tax Bill. Most recently (August 28), the Premier’s motion to have two bills passed on the same day as the three readings were taken, was defeated when the two members joined the Opposition and voted against it. Several other changes are being called for from both the Government and the Opposition, and these along with the views of the public will be incorporated into the document to be submitted to the FCO. The committee members are chairman Daniel Malcolm, secretary Tracey Parker, Don Hue Gardiner, Akierra Missick, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, Sean Astwood, Carlos Simons and Ashwood Forbes. PUBLIC MEETING SCHEDULE On Tuesday September 16, they will be meeting with civic groups, churches and associations at 10AM in the West Committee Room of the NJS Francis Building in Grand Turk. Later the same day, the committee will meet with the public in the Ona Glinton Primary School auditorium at 6.30PM.
On September 17, the meeting will be held in Salt Cay at the Salt Shed at 10am. In Providenciales, the committee will meet with private groups and associations on Thursday, September 18, at 10am until 3pm at the Hilly Ewing Building on Leeward Highway. And later, at 6.30pm, with members of the public at the Gustavus Lightbourne Sports Complex, in downtown Providenciales. The South Caicos meeting will be held on September 25 at the Regatta Village at 6.30pm. On September 30, the committee will travel to Bottle Creek, North Caicos to meet with the public at the Adelaide Omeler Primary School at 6.30pm. Meetings will be held in Middle Caicos on October 1 at 10am at the Middle Caicos Community Centre and the final one at the Hubert James Primary school in Kew, North Caicos at 6.30pm the same day. Written submissions are also welcome, on or before September 30. They can be emailed to tcicrc2014@gov.tc, tcicrc2014@ gmail.com or dropped off at the Office of the House of Assembly, Grand Turk; the Office of the Premier, Hilly Ewing Building, Providenciales or the District Commissioners Offices throughout the Islands. Civic groups, churches and associations that wish to arrange private meetings with the committee can do so by contacting the Secretary, Tracey Parker, on 338-3759, 2321472 or tiparker@gov.tc. The committee is required to complete all consultation and to produce a final report by November 15.
Time change to go ahead this November A CABINET decision to remain on Daylight Saving Time throughout the year has been deferred until next year to allow industry officials to plan for the change. Members had a change of heart during this week’s Cabinet meeting at the Hilly Ewing Building in Providenciales after agreeing to the move last month. A press release from the Governor’s Office following the meeting stated that members “agreed to defer by one year Cabinet’s decision of August 13
to maintain Daylight Savings Time as the standard time of the Islands. “This is to allow sufficient notice for implementation to be provided to key stakeholders in the aviation and tourism sectors. “This means that the Islands will remain on USA Eastern Standard Time.” Last month a Government statement said that a decision was taken by Cabinet to keep Daylight Saving Time as the standard time of the Islands. It added that the decision was
made following consultation with the public and stakeholders. The statement noted that among those asked were people from the aviation and tourism sectors, and this, in addition to the public feedback, revealed tremendous support for the proposal. “This will mean that time in the Islands will not change on November 2, 2014, when the United States of America reverts to Eastern Standard Time,” it read.
September 13 - 19, 2014
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
NEWS
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Corruption accused to face trial by judge alone
TEN defendants who are accused of playing a significant role in serious Government corruption are to face trial by judge alone. The Court of Appeal has dismissed a petition for a review of Judge Paul Harrison’s decision brought by the former Premier Michael Misick and other corruption accused last month. The defendants were challenging Harrison’s decision that they cannot face trial by a jury of their peers. The appeal court’s ruling was handed down on Thursday afternoon (September 11). When contacted late Thursday night, Misick told the Weekly News that they will be appealing this move.
“We are appealing on the independence of the judiciary,” he said. This means that the defendants will be challenging the independence and impartiality of Judge Harrison to hear the case. The three justices heard submissions from the defence lawyers and the SIPT Prosecutor from August 27 until 29. One of the arguments that were put forward by defence attorney Richard Clayton, who appeared for McAllister Hanchell is that the right to a jury trial still existed under the common law. He also argued against Harrison’s appointment to hear the trial, and
Former Premier Michael Misick
the subsequent extensions to this contract due to the delays.
The other attorneys also submitted arguments challenging Harrison’s appointment and his judicial independence. The other defendants in case are Floyd Hall, McAllister Hanchell, Lillian Boyce, Jeffrey Hall, Clayton Greene, Lisa Hall, Melbourne Wilson and Earlson Robinson and the former Premier’s brother, Thomas ‘Chal’ Misick. In reaching his decision to deny the defendants a jury trial, Harrison noted that the charges allege wrongdoing by prominent public figures which culminated in the Auld Inquiry Report. He listed the pre-trial media publicity that was adverse to the
prosecution and defence since the 2009 Commission of Inquiry Report, up to January this year. “This could not have failed to influence adversely the minds of the potential jurors in the small jurisdiction of TCI,” the judge said. He also listed the complexity of the charges, which are alleging the payment of millions of dollars by various means and channels to various accounts and to numerous recipients. “Inevitably this would involve a heavy volume of documents, both at pre-trial and at the trial, more appropriately dealt with by a judge alone,” he decided. (DELANA ISLES)
Gov’t and Opposition to work together for constitutional change POLITICAL disagreements and harsh words aside, the PDM and the PNP are firmly untied when it comes to the 2011 Constitution and are both determinedly committed to seeing it changed. Speaking with the Weekly News this week, Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson again signalled her party’s full support for the Premier’s Constitutional reform motion, which was passed last year. An eight-member committee has since been established to carry out public consultations beginning September 16 in Grand Turk, and concluding on October 1, in Kew, North Caicos. Although the party is still not clear on all the issues that the PNP Government has with the 2011 document, the PDM leader said that they hope to be apprised of this as soon as the consultations get underway. With regard to their issues with the document, the Opposition
leader has always been very vocal about this, going so far as to ask the Premier what took him so long, when he finally presented the motion to the House of Assembly in September 2013. “If you look at the terms of reference you would see words that are ambiguous; and we have identified some regressive sections,” she recently told this publication. She noted that as far as she has been able to determine, the Government is concerned with the provisions in the document regarding the Cabinet (chaired by the Governor), among other things. “So as we go through this exercise we hope to hear from the PNP, and there will be a group that will come before us to make representation on all sections that they find problematic.” She assured that the public will be educated on the constitution and its provisions during the upcoming consultation process, and will be
Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson
further assisted by pamphlets, radio and television coverage. “We do recognise the importance of ensuring that people are educated on it. What we want to do too is to have live coverage of the first few meetings so that persons can hear from the first meeting.” Speaking to the PDM’s willingness to work along with the Government on this issue, Cartwright Robinson
said: “Absolutely; we supported the motion that was brought to the house. “And we have identified regressive sections from since 2012, and this is something that is in the best interest of the country.” Both parties have indicated that the review is instrumental to the country moving forward. The Premier has always maintained that the current constitution is not in the best interest of the people of the Turks and Caicos. This opinion was shared by a high level CARICOM delegation during a fact-finding mission in June last year, which was mandated by the Caribbean Community to review the situation in the TCI. Fred Mitchell, Foreign Affairs and Immigration Minister in the Bahamian Government headed that delegation, which was comprised of officials from other Caribbean countries and Assistant Secretary General of CARICOM, Colin Granderson.
The team later produced a report, in which the constitutional make-up of the Turks and Caicos Islands came in for much criticism. An excerpt from the July 2013 report reads: “The observation was made that the present constitutional arrangements did not amount to democracy even though, paradoxically, representative democracy was said to be functioning well. “Consequently, there was need for early constitutional reform to get rid of the restrictions on government action.” It is the Government and the Opposition’s hope that this reform will come about when the recommendations are submitted to the UK, following the public consultations and subsequent debate in the House of Assembly. The CARICOM report was submitted to the UK Government last year, but to date, there has been no official word on how it was received or perceived. (DELANA ISLES)
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
September 13 - 19, 2014
A Weekly News column that puts you on the spot for your opinions on the issues of the day
East Caicos cruise port LAST week the Government revealed that a new deep water port is set to be built in East Caicos allowing a second point of access for cruise ships in the TCI. Cash from a multi-million dollar European Union fund for development will go towards construction of the facility details of which have yet to be finalised. Is a cruise port the best option for East Caicos? Or do you think the cash should be spent on developing infrastructure and an airport to encourage resort development?
More details please
As usual the Government has supplied no details about exactly where this new cruise port will be situated, or how big it will be and how much land/water will be damaged by it. Hate to go on about it but East Caicos may be all that we have left in terms of pristine country/water and a cruise port might be the death of it. From conversations with folks in Grand Turk - the cruise port has brought them a bit more $$, but they are “owned by the cruise port”. Kind of a company store situation. So perhaps you should actually speak to those who have benefitted but become enchained by it. Cruise ship clients are cheap and setting up a business on East Caicos probably won’t be. Washington’s financial record is hardly stunning and I am thinking his take on this is flawed. East is a national treasure. A more
ecologically sensitive development might be in order.
A world of possibility
If the deep water port includes a freight facility, and more money is spent on land transportation across the Caicos Islands, our cost of living could drop dramatically here, due to increased shipping efficiencies. With a system of causeways from Provo to East Caicos, it would open up a world of development possibilities for our country. No need for more international airports, a safe, consistent supply line between all the Caicos Islands, lowered cost of living for us all and opportunities for employment on people’s home islands. The resort development would come naturally. There are spectacular sites on North, Middle and East, just difficult to develop right now.
A big promise
This kind of story from this Finance Minster indicates concern over a coming election and smacks of the big promise also known as the big lie. Does Washy want to replace Rufus who has disappointed his supporters? Look behind you mister minister we see a young Saunders with a good management record coming on strong.
Rare and precious
What they are hiding from us, as was highlighted on the BBC a few weeks ago, is that East Caicos is one of the rarest and most precious environmental assets in the Atlantic.
What about South?
I hate the fact that we are not preserving our natural environment. Don’t see the need for a cruise port in East Caicos where there is so much wildlife. South Caicos desperately needed the investment. I think it would be better suited there. Nothing should be done without the public’s consultation.
Who’s the developer?
Wonderful! Finally a PNP Government doing something for East and just possibly Middle Caicos. Let us pause and examine who is leading this. The one term former Chief, now minister, has managed a local bank with promise and $24 millions of our pension funds straight into the ground. His own resort in receivership is now in
New Testament church attains autonomy and appoints new officials By Daisy Handfield THE NEW Testament Church of God attained the distinction of being granted autonomy by the International Office of the Church of God in the United States during a convention in Florida last month. The ceremony was held on the evening of August 1 at the Orange County Convention Centre in Orlando. Aside from that achievement, the church was also delighted to announce the recent appointment of Bishop Austraham Hamilton as the first Administrative Bishop and National Overseer of the church in Providenciales.
Hamilton said that he was a living witness of the growth of the work in the Turks and Caicos Islands, from one congregation in Grand Turk to ten all over the country along with one mission. “I have had the fortune of serving in various capacities in the church, from Sunday School teacher to District Overseer and also a member of the National Council of the Church of God Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands. “I also had the privilege of attending various pastoral and leadership conferences of the Church of God, which helped to prepare me for this new assignment.”
He said that the appointment as the first Administrative Bishop for the New Testament Church of God is indeed a privilege, a most humbling experience and also an awesome responsibility to serve the Kingdom of God which he does not take lightly. Some of the future intensions of the church include the establishment of a Bible College, a very vibrant chaplaincy ministry throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands, scholarship programs to the Church of God owned universities, a result oriented youth and evangelistic outreach programme and programmes
for men and women that will minister to their spiritual, social and physical needs. Officials from the church also announced the appointment of Bishop George Fulford in South Caicos and Bishop Reuben Johnson in Providenciales as members of the first National Council of the New Testament Church of God, Turks and Caicos Islands. An installation ceremony for the new Administrative Bishop on Providenciales will be held on September 12 at 6pm at the Salem Baptist Church auditorium and the general public is welcome to attend.
Beaches buyout gun-sights. What PNP sponsored anything is up and running for the peoples benefit? Who will dredge, build and own the port? What will the cruise ship passengers see in unoccupied East Caicos? Dried up sisal plants? Who will pay for and build the causeways to Joe Grant Cay, Middle or even South Caicos?
Just a dream
Dream on voters and dream on mister minister. Our last Financial Minister put his wife in the Grand Turk welcome centre number one front store. Is Washy dreaming about Mrs Washy fronting a welcome centre number one store built with the granted EU $19 million? We think we should spend the grant on what PNP has ignored for 11 years, our young people’s future; education. Without lower taxes and massive investments plus massive concessions which are now impossible Mike’s brother needs to go to sleep on this because this is really only a dream.
Treacherous waters
Even if a second cruise port is envisioned for the Turks and Caicos Islands, definitely the partially developed island of South Caicos is definitely preferred over the undeveloped East Caicos, strategically for proximity and connectivity reasons. And besides, in the winter times, currents, winds and sea-swells make the waters in that area un-manageable at best, and treacherous and much risk to life and cruse-lines. Available funds can be best spent to benefit the entire country by developing and envisioning an industrial economic bridgeway to prosperity in support of sustained development, education, and ancillary industry. East Caicos is a one-off, one island, disenfranchised effort for profiteering investors, and if property planned, must be in the best interest of all the TCI. An East Caicos choice, covert, still will be, as desired, out of the reach of the real and true beneficiary stakeholders, the Turks and Caicos Islanders!
Feeling in the dark
More destruction of our unique environment. Who comes up with all these hair-brained plans? Why is there not a committee of local and expat businessmen to make a long term practical plan? What we are seeing now is just some guys feeling in the dark. Same thing with the value added tax and other taxes. This place could be a paradise on Earth if it weren’t spoiled by people.
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
September 13 - 19, 2014
NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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Premier takes a swipe at Kathleen Wood By Delana Isles PREMIER Rufus Ewing has struck back at former Director of the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA), Kathleen Wood, stating that if was left up to her, the people of the TCI would not be able to walk on the ground for fear of damaging the environment. Ewing’s statements followed Wood’s contention that the Turks and Caicos Islands does not value and respect the environment, which is responsible for the country’s livelihood. On the heels of her August 15 resignation, Wood came out with guns blazing against what she sees as the lack of concern and attention to environmental issues displayed by the Government and people of the country. She said that the frustrations of doing her job in this climate of unconcern convinced her not to renew her contract with the Government. On Wednesday (September 10), the Weekly News solicited the Premier’s views on the former director’s publicised criticisms.
“The Government’s official response is that we do take environmental concerns seriously; it is just that everything can’t go the way of the environment every time. “We will weigh the pros and cons and there needs to be a sense of balanced development in this country.” He added that if Government were to take the views expressed and go totally on the side of the environment in everything it does, there would never be any development in the TCI and no benefit to the people of the Islands. “In going forward and developing this country, we will be developing in a sensible manner but at the same time looking at the people for the greater good, looking at ways that we can mitigate against the negative impacts that it would have with regard to the environment.” One of the concerns Wood had raised was the dolphinarium project, but her statements were related more so to the negative impact it would have on the local economy in
Cabinet talks poverty and immigration ON THURSDAY (September 11) Cabinet met in the Hilly Ewing Building in Providenciales. Below is a transcript of decisions and actions taken by the body which chaired by the Acting Governor, Anya Williams. At the last meeting Cabinet: • Received a presentation from representatives from the Caribbean Development Bank (CBA) setting out the results of the Turks and Caicos Islands Country Poverty Assessment (CPA). The CPA has been a joint undertaking of a National Assessment Team including members from Government Agencies and NGOs and a team of consultants funded by the CDB. The report provides a general overview of the historical, economic and social context of TCI as it affects current and potential future levels of poverty and describes the current extent of poverty in the country. Cabinet welcomed the report; • Advised HE the Governor to approve the Immigration Regulations 2014. The regulations supplement the 2014 Immigration Bill which had its first reading at the August 28th siting of the House of Assembly. The regulations will proceed to the House of Assembly; • Noted the recommendations of the Procurement Board on award of the following contract: Refurbishment of the existing rented Detention Centre; • Noted a report from the
Minister Border Control and Labour updating Cabinet regarding the repatriation of British Overseas Passport issuance and the costs associated with this. From May 2015 all applications will be received, examined and agreed in TCI. The finished passport will be issued to the applicant by Her Majesty's Passport Office (HMPO) in the UK; • Advised HE the Governor to agree the Ministry of Border control and Labour revised policy for dealing with the immigration process regarding persons with matters pending before the courts and the labour tribunal. The new policy will be published by the Minister for Border Control and Labour in due course; • Advised HE the Governor to approve amendments to the Schedule of Ports Authority (Stevedores, Fees and Charges) Regulations 2008 to enable a variation of tariff in accordance with Regulation 15 of the aforementioned regulations. The increased fees represent a 2.54% increase over the September 2013 tariff and will take effect on 1st September 2014; • Received a proposal from the Ports Authority to introduce scanning facilities to scan containers entering and leaving the country via seaports for customs and security purposes. Cabinet welcomed the proposal and agreed that the Ports Authority should lead on its further development and revert to cabinet again in due course.
Former Director of the DEMA, Kathleen Wood
Premier Rufus Ewing
Grand Turk and the tourism industry, in addition to the environment concerns. The Premier noted that the project, in spite of all the criticism from environmental proponents and some residents, is one of the things that Government went ahead with as a policy decision. “It is something that is in development; they (investors) are going through the ropes and submitting their various applications to planning. “As far as we are concerned we have no reason to stop it at this point, and the process will continue.” He added that they would weigh it for what it is and put the regulatory framework in place that will regulate the operations. “I know there will always be opposition to anything we do, especially as it relates to the environment, so Ms Wood cannot say that we haven’t taken her concerns
seriously,” the Premier stated. He added: “But if it was left up to her we wouldn’t be able to walk on these islands, for fear of damaging the environment because of walking.” Recently, the Jamaican Government moved to suspend new approvals on dolphinariums until a market and ecosystems survey is undertaken. The proposed policy makes provisions for surveys to be conducted before new approvals are granted so as to first determine how many can be sustainably created in the country. The move means that decisions on further development of dolphin attractions will now be based on research and scientific data. Asked about this and the TCI’s position to go ahead with the dolphinariums, the Premier stated that that decision is related to Jamaica, which already has three,
Under the tree
and is to determine if they can or should create more. “They have about three dolphinariums in Jamaica and we don’t have any, and all they are trying to do is to see to what extent they need more than three, so they want to put regulations to decide if they don’t need anymore.” He added that that decision is not comparative to the argument against dolphinarium in the TCI. “Because if they really were to go the route of what people want to do here then what would happen in Jamaica, they would say we don’t want any more dolphinariums and would scrap them all, but that is not the route they are taking,” Ewing pointed out. He stressed that the Jamaicans are concerned about the proliferation of dolphin aquariums; as such, they putting in place regulations that are more stringent for the approval of new ones.
By Benneth Williams
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NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
September 13 - 19, 2014
Part built luxury resort to be redeveloped By Rebecca Bird A PARTLY built resort that has long been an ugly scar on the picturesque Grace Bay landscape is set to be redeveloped, according to Government officials. The Toscana resort in the Bight, Providenciales, was touted to be a luxurious Italian style village featuring five buildings on a 4.3 acre beach front plot. But the credit crunch led to a sudden halt in construction and forced the developers to sell. Now the land has been rebought and the multimillion dollar development is set to begin again – with a whole new set of design plans. The project rebuild was first hinted at during Premier Rufus Ewing’s ministerial address to the House of Assembly in April. He mentioned that Toscana’s new developers were readying themselves to restart construction. Then in July during his budget speech in the House of Assembly, Minister of Finance Washington Misick announced that they had signed a memorandum of understanding. He said that the project would cost $40 million and would contain “54 keys”. However to date no further details have been provided. HISTORY OF TOSCANA In March 2008 a launch reception was held at a five acre plot of land to the west of Coral Gardens resort in Grace Bay. The Toscana development team gathered to tell media of their plans for a Tuscan inspired resort with a subtle Caribbean flavour. They explained that the multimillion dollar development would comprise of 74 luxury residences in five buildings, each five storeys tall, ranging in price from about $505,000 to $1.9 million. The units would include studios, one and two bedroom apartments and penthouse suites and feature wrap around balconies, Travertine marble flooring and vanishing glass wall systems. Residents would also be able to enjoy a spa, tennis court, oceanfront bar, fitness centre and an Italian restaurant, which executive chef Waldy Malouf claimed would “compete with any restaurant in the world.” Leading the huge project were City Bay Developers, headed by four principal partners, each with extensive experience in real estate development. Projetech Construction and Management Services, which boasts numerous successful builds across Providenciales, were employed to carry out construction.
Netta Architects, an award winning architectural and design firm located in New York, designed the immense project. Witkin Design Group headed by Andy Witkin and located in Miami, Florida, and the Caribbean carried out resort landscape and architecture. And Prestigious Properties – the TCI’s largest broker of real estate services – were responsible for real estate while TWA, Marcelin and Wolf provided legal services and guidance. At the reception architect Nick Netter said: “We believe we have created something that will react very favourably to the market. “Toscana will combine architecture, food, beverage, service and top management staff to create a luxury European experience.” Construction soon began on the resort but within a year, with one building barely erected, the project came to a grinding halt. City Bay Developers were no longer able to fund the construction and struggled to scrape together the cash to continue. However at least 28 apartments had been sold with large payments made, leaving buyers concerned about the future of their property and investments. According to local media the main lenders put the property up for auction twice before opting for private sale. Real estate agents NW Hamilton Realty labelled it the development as a “Grace Bay part completed resort”. The price of the 4.332 acres of land and part built building was not listed but available upon request. A blurb on their website read: “Great opportunity for someone to pick up and complete a planned resort located on the beach of Grace Bay. “The property is a fantastic location and although there are plans available from the past developer, the project would also offer someone the flexibility of changing the plans to suit the current market conditions, such as a hotel or something of a similar nature.” It went on to say that the current planning permission granted a total of 74 units in five buildings. “With the type of zoning for this type of project, there would be a possibility of increasing on the number of units on the site together with adding a further floor or floors on some of the buildings (subject to planning permission).” PROJECT FUTURE Projetech principle David W Hartshorn told the Weekly news on Thursday (September 11): “We have been and continue to be in continuous discussion with the new
The Toscana resort was touted to be a luxurious Italian style village
The credit crunch led to a sudden halt in construction
principle owners. “We have in fact successfully worked with a number of the key participants in the past and are of course extremely hopeful to be involved in the new build.”
He went on to say that Projetech will be celebrating its 18th year in business at the end of 2014. “It would be a great start to its 19th year by remobilising the completion of this project and
in the process put many Turks Islanders back to work.” Minister of Finance Washington Misick and Premier Rufus Ewing could not be reached for comment before press time.
September 13 - 19, 2014
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
NEWS
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Strategic plan on tourism to be developed – Tourism conference to be held this November By Delana Isles KPMG has been recruited to carry out a three-month consultancy exercise to look at how to develop the Turks and Caicos Islands tourism brand and maximise its potential. The exercise is being conducted ahead of the development of a TCI tourism strategic plan that will serve to guide the country’s tourism industry over the next several years. Premier Rufus Ewing made this disclosure during a press conference at the Hilly Ewing building on Thursday (September 11). “Tourism in the TCI is our number one industry and it has served us well over the last several years. “And for us to remain competitive with a sustainable tourism product it is important that we continue to look at our policy as it relates to
our tourism product to be able to keep what we have that is good, to strengthen and to introduce new product and diversify our tourism economy,” he told the media. He noted that as part of the Government’s mandate, they approved the consultancy exercise to be conducted by KPMG, headed by Gary Brough, the company’s Managing Director in the TCI. Brough and his team will be engaging people in the tourism and hospitality sectors as well as other stakeholders to get their views on what the Government needs to do with regard to expanding on and taking advantage of the TCI’s full potential. “They are certain things that we do well, major resorts, low density high end quality, at the same time we are well known for our cuisine
(restaurants), sun sea and sand, but there are a number of areas that we have not yet maximised on their potential,” Ewing said. These are areas such as eco tourism, heritage and culture based tourism, also looking at the TCI as a potential shopping hub, and as a conference or event based destination. “We have to be able to diversify within the tourism industry while still holding own our as to what serves us well, as an industry based, high end product,” he added. He explained that the team would also be looking at ways to enhance already developed and thriving tourism opportunities within the Islands. “We need to make sure they are well coordinated, well thought out and what policies we need to put in place
to maximise on those particular areas.” The team will also focus ways to maximise on the potential of all of the islands. “They will be establishing what each island has to offer, also how do we promote and market especially the Caicos islands, and how we can take what is natural for them and make it an important part of the tourism product,” Ewing stated. At the end, they will put together a report for consideration for the development of strategic objectives and a plan of action, he added. Meanwhile, Brough, also present at the briefing, expressed his company’s commitment to the Government funded project. “We at KPMG are very much aware of the critical importance of the tourism industry to the TCI and we are delighted to carry out this engagement.” He said that with more than 100,000 employed with KMPG
No charges for brutal North Caicos murder TO DATE no one has been charged with the murder of Quincy Gardiner whose body was discovered in North Caicos this summer. The 31-year-old was found dead alongside a road leading to Kew on the morning of Saturday, July 26. A police officer made the shocking discovery at about 5.28am and officers from multiple units were called to the scene. Initial investigations revealed that the body was that of Quincy Gardiner and that he had sustained several injuries. He was later removed from the scene and a post-mortem exam to determine the exact cause of death was conducted. The results of the post-mortem have yet to be released due to a family dispute on accuracy. A man was later arrested and
questioned in connection with the incident but was not charged. In addition no charges have been made in the case of Robert Been, who was murdered in Providenciales on March 4, 2014, or Jocelin Odisse, who was killed in Providenciales, on December 31, 2013. Commissioner Colin Farquhar told the Weekly News on Wednesday (September 10): “The three matters are still under active investigation. “The deputy is meeting with investigators to provide leadership and guidance.” Anyone with information about any of these incidents is asked to call Crimestoppers on 1-800-8477 or at www.crimestoppers.tc. The call will be answered in Miami, Florida, and only the information provided will be passed on. (DH)
Car collision causes extensive damage to vehicles TWO motor vehicles collided in the vicinity of the 7/11 variety store on Leeward Highway in Providenciales on Monday morning (September 8). The collision involved a blue Audi A4 and a grey Dodge Dart.
The driver and passenger of the blue Audi sustained minor injuries and were taken by ambulance to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre where they were treated and later discharged. Police investigations are being carried out. (DH)
Motor vehicle incident on Leeward Highway in Providenciales
in 176 countries, this will allow the team to tap into the KPMG’s extensive network. “I am delighted to say as part of the team, my role as heading the tourism group in the Caribbean I’ve been fortunate to come across some excellent individuals that I’m delighted to say are forming part of our team. “It’s a very big mandate, but we are very excited,” Brough said. The Premier also revealed that a tourism conference would be held in the first week of November. This will form part of the TCI’s November tourism activities. He noted that the conference will run for about two days and will broaden dialogue that will further inform the consultancy exercise and ultimately the strategic plan. Various guest presenters (international and local) and panellists from various sectors will be invited to make presentations during the event.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Just two months to go on Man struck with health insurance amnesty crowbar during By Rebecca Bird
AN AMNESTY for employers and self-employed people who have defaulted on health insurance contributions is in full swing. Interest payments, which amount to several million dollars, are set to be struck off over the coming months in exchange for full payment of owed fees. Several people have already taken advantage of the break but those that have not yet come forward should do so soon, urged health plan officials this week. Zaneta Burton, CEO of the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB), said that a “steady stream” of people had visited the offices to set up payment plans. But she warned that time is running out for the remaining defaulters as October 31 is the final date for registration for the amnesty. Those that make themselves known then have until December 31 to make payments, but the longer it is left the less time they have, Burton said. A massive $3.3 million in penalty fees may be struck off during the three month amnesty, which began on August 1. Now the NHIB is seeking to collect just the $2.4 million in outstanding contributions. In July the National Health Insurance (Amendment) Bill and the National Health Insurance (Amnesty) Bill 2014 were laid before the House
of Assembly in Grand Turk. Minster for Finance, Investment and Trade Washington Missick presented the bills and they were approved by members. The amendment to the first bill reduced the interest accrued on outstanding payments from 10 percent to three percent of the cost owed while the second bill set conditions for the amnesty. During the committee stage of the bill Opposition members moved two amendments that they deemed crucial. Representative for Wheeland, Delroy Williams, called for a longer period for payments to be made. The amendment saw an extension for payments until December 31, although residents must still register before October 31. The second amendment was moved by the Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson who proposed to have benefits reinstated once a plan is entered into and obligations are met. “This means that those who avail themselves of the amnesty will be able to access health benefits once their payments are made in full or kept current,” a PDM statement read. FACT AND FIGURES During the debate Missick revealed that 933 people had missed payments to the scheme including 452 from the private sector and 481 self-employed people.
Employers owed $1,483,000 including $852,000 in penalty fees while the self-employed owed $4,307,000 including $2,474,000 accrued interest. Between the two this accounted for a huge $5,790,000 owed to the NHIB before the start of the amnesty and just $2,464,000 when interest of $3,326,000 is deducted. During a press conference on July 1 Ewing said that the Government is “not too much concerned” about how much money it is losing through the penalty waiver. “We are more interested in how much we can potentially get from persons being registered with the National Health Insurance Plan (NHIP) and also more importantly the benefit that people will get from being registered with NHIP in getting healthcare. “And that is our main focus in getting persons who deserve to be registered, who should be registered, who want to be registered but are hampered from being registered simply because they can’t afford to pay their penalty for a number of years.” In 2009 the NHIP was established to gather funds for both the 24 year hospital mortgage and healthcare provision. Hundreds of people pledged to boycott the plan but the Government went ahead with it despite the strong continued
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violent burglary A TOURIST was struck over the head with a crowbar as he attempted to protect his sister from burglars last week. His distraught father told the Weekly News that he has vowed never to return to the country following the violent incident. At about 3am last Friday (September 5) two masked men dressed in black broke into a property in Long Bay, Providenciales, where a family of four were vacationing. The burglars entered through the building’s screened in porch and used a crowbar to smash through a sliding glass door into the 24-yearold man’s bedroom. He ran towards his 28-year-old sister’s bedroom in desperate bid to protect her, but one of the thugs struck him over the head with the crowbar, knocking him to the floor. The commotion woke their parents who were asleep in an upstairs bedroom. “As we came downstairs the thugs demanded to know where our money was and attempted to kidnap us to take us to a bank to withdraw money for them,” the young man’s father, 61, explained. “Rather than cowering, we encouraged them to leave before the situation escalated. “They did so taking my wife’s purse with all of our identification,
cheques and credit cards.” The men also took a backgammon set, laptop and a silver watch, and left in the family’s brown Chevrolet rental car. The father, who asked to remain anonymous, said that he believed the thugs had prior knowledge of the property. “Please ask folks to be careful as desperate people do desperate things,” he said. “Unfortunately because of this experience we will not be back to your beautiful waters.” The 24-year-old was left with several scalp lacerations following the attack but declined medical treatment. Police searched the area, however the two masked men were not located. Detectives of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) are conducting further investigations. Anyone with information about this incident can call CrimeStoppers on 1-800-8477 or use the CrimeStoppers online reporting page www. crimestoppers.tc. Information will be treated in the strictest of confidence. All calls are answered by Miami Dade Police and no one from the TCI police force will know who called. Only the information received will be provided to local police. (RB)
COMMENTARY
Behind the curtain
WHEN I read about the possibility of a cruise port coming to East Caicos I had yet another vision of one of the later scenes in the movie ‘The Wizard of Oz’. In this scene the Wizard’s magnified face is projected overhead with smoke and mirrors. However it turns out the Wizard was a fake hiding behind a curtain. Revealed by a small potcake pulling the curtain back. Has the countdown to the next election begun to loom? It is said we are primed to get $19 million from the European Union. After the EU takes on Russia and the Islamic terrorists we wonder if that money will be forthcoming. We must also remember years ago EU awarded TCI $10.8
million dollars to build the causeway. The award coming to the PDM government 75 days before the PNP took over in 2003. The EU sponsored causeway was started four long years later and finished at year five. The then government said it cost $5.2 million. Year six saw it washed away by little hurricane Hanna. Years later it was doctored up by the interim government with one of several prescribed culverts for $2 million more. The next culvert was due to be built right now but somehow this has gone unfunded. We believe the 2003 to 2009 Government had plans to do something in East Caicos. This belief comes from the Middle Caicos Government building which now looms like a giant incomplete
haunted house in Conch Bar. Then there is the Middle Caicos West land scam and the sale of Joe Grant Cay. Property given to favourites near Lorimers. Someone then believed that an East Caicos cruise port was a possibility. When you see the price of land on East Caicos you have to wonder who would fund this? Carnival Cruise Lines? Will they put up $250 million to build and own this project? We do not believe this is possible because other sources were being explored. Our former leader was venting the possibility in Venezuela and Qatar. The problems with this thinking now revealed. Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez, arch
By David Tapfer
David is a retired mobile hydraulic engineer and business executive. He has been married to Middle Caicos native Yvette Robinson Tapfer for 25 years and has lived in Conch Bar, Middle Caicos, since 2002. David formerly served as branch chairman of the PDM from 2008 to 2011
enemy of the USA, is dead. Qatar now busy funding the Hamas war against Israel. The man behind the curtain today replaces his brother wizard but unless we learn otherwise this may be only the beginning of another election ploy. The proof is seen in the broken ceilings, walls and furniture of Clement Howell High Sschool.
The proof is the claim of $45,000 spent on mosquito fogging chemicals. So few foggings. I wish the cruise port could go forward and people come home to Middle Caicos which has paid a terrible price for years of supporting the people behind the curtain.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Mad rush to complete school repairs – Children forced to put up with below par facilities By Rebecca Bird STUDENTS have had to put up with mess and mayhem this week as school repairs continue to take place during the start of term. Maintenance work, which was due to be completed last week, is being carried out in Government schools across the country in order to bring them up to a suitable standard for teaching. According to Government officials, the delay is down to the recent tropical storm Cristobal, the late budget allocation and the sheer volume of work needed. But the excuse has done little to ease the concerns of parents, several of whom have voiced their complaints on social media. One hit out: “My son just came home from fifth form at Clement Howell High School and sadly his first day of school brought no desk, no chair, no fans, door broken and they did nothing all day.” Another wrote: “My daughter also who’s in fifth form came home complaining about no furniture and how filthy the school is. “And she said today still no furniture and they had to sit outside on benches with the mosquitoes!” Officials from the Ministry of Education and Government Support Services seem unaware of the outcry from distressed parents and students, and instead have praised their staff for a job well done. Russell Cox, Deputy Permanent
Secretary of Government Support Services, conducted a site visit to the Providenciales public schools on Monday (September 8) – the first day of term. During the visit he said: “I am very proud of my team over these past few weeks. They rose to the challenge of recovering from the storm and have also delivered a substantial work programme in our schools. “I am sure that students, parents and teachers will welcome the repair and maintenance works conducted and will play their part in looking after our schools estate.” Deputy Premier Akierra Missick, Minister for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture, joined Cox during Monday’s visits. She said: “It is great to see the staff and students returning to their classrooms after the one week delay caused by tropical storm Cristobal. “The country is really bouncing back from the flooding, and the way that the parents and private companies around our public schools have joined in the effort to get things ready for the new term is very inspiring.” Cheryl Ann Jones, Permanent Secretary of Education, Youth Sport and Culture, and Director of Education Edgar Howell were also part of the site visit team. They attended Clement Howell High School, Ianthe Pratt and Enid
Just two months to go on health insurance ... continued from
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opposition. Enrolment in the NHIP is mandatory for all those who are employed or reside in the TCI including Belongers and expatriates. At the launch of the plan all legal residents in work had to contribute 2.5 percent of their wage while their employers contributed a further 2.5 percent. In 2012 it increased to three percent. Meanwhile the Government agreed to pay the remaining amount owed to healthcare providers InterHealth Canada for services. In exchange participants are eligible to receive primary care, outpatient services, outpatient specialty care, day surgery and
hospital care, diagnostic services, maternity care, ambulance services and outpatient drugs for chronic conditions. However those that miss payments have, until now, been liable for a penalty of 10 percent per month. Drexwell Seymour, chair of the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB) which runs the plan, previously described it as a “comprehensive reform of the healthcare system”. However former Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Hugh McGarel-Groves in June 2013 said the health plan is an absolute scandal and the biggest financial mess the interim administration had to deal with. Anyone needing additional information on the health insurance plan can visit tcinhip.tc.
Trash litters the front drive at Oseta Jolly Primary School in Blue Hills
Capron Primary Schools and plan to go to public schools on the other inhabited islands before the end of this month. Media were not invited to attend the visits. CAUSE OF DELAY Just two weeks ago Missick told the House of Assembly that many contracts for repair works were awarded late, due mostly to the late passing of this year’s budget. The minister added that despite contractors previously confirming they were on track, the passing of tropical storm Cristobel set them back. However she went on to describe maintenance work at the Government’s run-down schools as an “exercise in futility”. Missick said that the school maintenance programme continues to be challenged by acts of irresponsibility in many cases and vandalised by the children. “I witnessed first-hand the classrooms listed for repairs at our
various schools, and noted with dismay how those rooms which had repair works conducted last year, are on the list for the same if not similar repairs this year.” Island-wide PTA meetings will walk through the zero tolerance policy with parents, guardians and caregivers, she explained. This will not only address deviant behaviour on Government compounds but also destructive behaviour to the physical buildings. “We again encourage parents to urge their children and even community members who sneak in to school compounds, use water and other resources and those who deface property to help us keep our community resource safe and in good condition. “We need the cooperation of all to help upkeep our schools.” Members from the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) and the People Progressive Party (PPP) both voiced their anger at the Government’s alleged inaction last month
They said that improvements to the shabby facilities would not be completed before the new term began causing a huge disruption to the students’ learning. In July during his budget speech to the House of Assembly, George Lightbourne, Minister for Government Support Services, spoke about upkeep of Government buildings. He said that the Estate Management Department will be implementing a more efficient maintenance system. This will be guided by a new TCIG Estate Policy, which will include a review and survey of all the Government’s fixed assets, he said. “The intended privatisation of TCIG janitorial services will certainly reduce the current expenditure and strengthen the small and medium enterprise sector throughout the Islands especially Grand Turk, through the creation of small and medium cleaning business opportunities.”
Light fittings hang from the ceiling at Ianthe Pratt Primary School in the Bight
12 NEWS
September 13 - 19, 2014
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Pothole in the Bight area in Providenciales
Potholes are some of the most dangerous in the Bight area
Giant potholes a danger to motorists HUGE potholes have sprung up across Providenciales following the strong winds and heavy rains of tropical storm Cristobal. The giant hollows in the tarmac are often difficult to spot and are a risk to both public safety and to vehicles.
Roads in the Bight and Kew Town are some of the most seriously affected by the hazards. A TCI mechanic told the Weekly News this week said that potholes must be mended soon to avoid serious damage to vehicles.
Ramon Aracena said that if a car strikes the holes at any speed it risks steering system misalignment, engine damage, premature wear on shocks, wheel rim damage and exhaust system damage. Aracena encouraged residents to be
very vigilant when driving roads where there are potholes and to get vehicles fully inspected if they strike a hole. George Lightbourne, Minister for Government Support Services, said on Wednesday (September 10) that he was informed by his staff that works
on the potholes were scheduled to commence this weekend. According to potholes.co.uk the holes cause as many as 1 in 10 mechanical failures on UK roads and cost motorists an estimated £730 million every year.
Monet Collymore
Judith Noel
Lamuela Forbes
Frankie Missick (aka TCI’s James Brown)
2. Monet Collymore “They are definitely unsafe and they do pose a safety hazard to persons driving. “They certainly need to be maintained to minimise any sort of incidents, especially road or vehicular incidents.”
these potholes because last night I almost destroyed my vehicle dodging one pothole and running straight into another. “I am tired of buying tires and I have to fix my shocks and the front CV joint. “This is costing me a lot of money so they really need to do something about these potholes.”
is something that Government really has to pay close attention to.”
3. Judith Noel “They need to do something with
4. Lamuela Forbes “I think it is an issue that has been
going on for a very long time and then I also think that it is affecting people who are driving on the road constantly every day. “It messes up their vehicle in terms of their shocks and their tires. I think it is something that the Government really has to look into and I think it is getting even worse since we had rain for a couple of days. “Every time they fix it just keeps opening up again so something really has to be done and I think it
YOUR VIEWS
Arnold Simmons
1. Arnold Simmons “They need to rectify it, not tomorrow, not later… now! It only takes a little bit of something to put in the road and get it sorted out for a smooth sailing until they do the proper work on the roads. “That’s how I feel about it and that’s how I see it. We need more management skills and people who have more concern to do these things. “Everybody gone to sleep, like a bunch of idiots… sorry to say it like
that!”
5. Frankie Missick (aka TCI’s James Brown) “The potholes are very dangerous because you have tourists coming here and they are not aware of these potholes. “When we had Michael Misick in charge we had nice roads… we need Mike Misick back! “These potholes need to be fixed; they need to be cut out and patched.”
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September 13 - 19, 2014
Parents take control at Government high school By Rebecca Bird PARENTS and well-wishers fed up with Government apathy and inaction have vowed to join forces to raise funds for school repairs at Clement Howell High School. The group plans to take the situation into their own hands in order to see much needed improvements take place at the Government’s largest educational facility. The idea was suggested on a social media site on Thursday (September 11) and dozens of supporters quickly jumped on board. The popular Facebook public forum Speak Your Mind TCI welcomes suggestions and comments on all things related to the Turks and Caicos Islands, and education is often a topic of much debate. Concerned mother Chevette Capron wrote: “This is just something that ran on my mind this morning. We, who have children in Clement Howell High School, why don’t we begin to donate if only $10 to the repair of the school, or buy a gallon of paint, or some ladies buy some cleaners.” She said that she would get the ball rolling by buying two gallons of brown paint the same day. “I am sure they need toilet seats, maybe one bag of cement. What do you guys think?” Within hours scores of people had supported the idea and offered their own suggestions. One wrote: “I think this is a good idea, buy the items and donate them, or give the money to the school's treasurer for the cause of repairs to the school.” Another suggested organising a weekend or day on the weekend to visit the school and do a clean-up or paint. “Maybe some contractors would also join in so we’d have the knowhow and tools to do repairs,” they wrote. A former student joined the conversation: “That’s a great idea. When I was going to school there, a group of us came together and painted the school and the parking lot over the course of the weekend. It was really fun. “You should let the principal know and get the kids involved too. I bet they’ll have tons of fun like I did.”
Others agreed that having the children involved would be a great idea and would be good for their selfdevelopment, sense of ownership and responsibility. “I gather that some damage is caused by some children, having them involved is a great legacy.” While support was wide ranging for the initiative some contributors expressed their upset at the Government for allowing it to come to this. “I cannot help but think that we are paying taxes in the form of customs, licensing fees etc to have had absolutely nothing done with the only Government high school in Providenciales,” a parent wrote. “Why are we not calling out the powers that be for this gross neglect? “I would rather much protest to bring real awareness and expose the Government for its lack of commitment to education in this country, as we have been noticing over the few weeks in this forum. “I see it as we are paying them for not doing their jobs period. This administration has left me just bewildered.” STATE OF SHAME In June the Weekly News exposed the shocking conditions at Clement Howell High School (CHHS) in Blue Hills, Providenciales. Filth, mould, exposed wires, peeling walls, shattered tiles and broken furniture were just some of the major problems that inflicted the school. Former principal Gerald Persaud said that the deplorable condition of the school had been raised with the Ministry of Education many times and Government officials were “well aware” of it. The Ministry of Education, Youth and Library Services said at the time that the condition of all of the Government schools is a “serious concern”. “…and it is for this reason that we are addressing these issues as much as possible within the severely restricted resources that we have.” It went on to say that the ongoing maintenance issues at school would be looked at during the summer works programme – which is still going ahead. The Public Works Department, a department within the Ministry of
Government Support Services, has a schedule of all the works needed to upgrade the current building and infrastructure. This will be done over the next two years, the statement read. Earlier this year Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robsinson called for immediate action to address ongoing issues at the school.
“Clement Howell High is the largest high school in the Turks and Caicos - that’s over 1,000 of our youth. “We really need to show them some appreciation, some love, some attention. If we allow it to linger on it’s only going to become worse.” She said that action will cost money but it calls for a sacrifice from the Government. “Sacrifice your travel for Christ’s
sake. Look at your budget. Make it a priority. “Approach the private sector, say that these are our needs. Enter a joint venture. I don’t care what it is. It has to get done.” According to Government figures there are currently 934 pupils being educated at the school which was originally built for about 300 students.
Students asked to purchase their own desks and chairs By Daisy Handfield AN UNDISCLOSED number of students at Ianthe Pratt Primary School were asked to purchase their own desks and chairs for the new academic year. On Tuesday (September 9) the Weekly News was informed by a parent, who asked to remain anonymous, that a teacher told her child that the Bight school was short on equipment. The teacher went on to advise the pupil to purchase a desk and a chair so that they could be properly accommodated. Director of Education Edgar Howell said that no student should be asked to purchase their desks or chairs and added that
administration at the school were scolded on the situation. Several attempts were made to contact school principal Neekimo King to gain clarification on the matter but there was no success up to press time. Reports were also made to the newspaper that students at Oseta Jolly Primary School in Blue Hills were experiencing the same situation. However principal Rachel Handfield clarified that the school was prepared for the school year, for the most part. “We were equipped with the necessary furniture based on our calculations at the end of last year,” she said. “At the end of last year we had
about 537 students and everybody was sat with additional furniture because we had a project last year where we purchased over 200 chairs and 100 desks.” This year the school was assigned about 30 additional students who they were able successfully accommodate. Amanyara resort sponsors Oseta Jolly Primary School as part of its Education Outreach Programme. During a school visit on Monday (September 8) Akierra Missick, Minister of Education, Youth, Sport and Culture, said: “The way that the parents and private companies around our public schools have joined in the effort to get things ready for the new term is very inspiring.”
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New principal aims to change school’s negative image By Daisy Handfield ONLY a week into the new academic year, Kadean Cunningham, new principal for the Clement Howell High School (CHHS), promised a number of notable changes. On Thursday (September 11) in an interview with the Weekly News, Cunningham said that she has four main objectives. They are to change the negative image that society had portrayed of the school, change the way students portray themselves inside and outside of school, incorporate more parent involvement and ensure that the media is more involved in the positive activities that the school offers. “Before I came here and when checking up on some information about the school I was very concerned about the negative publicity that the school gets,” she said, “and this is
something that I have to change. “A lot of times people thrive on the negatives to get the public to listen.” Cunningham promised more involvement with the media going forward. The new principal said that she was also going to work on the way the students wear the uniform, making sure that they take pride in how they act. She said that for a school to be effective, there must be an administration with the students, teachers and the third arm which are the parents. “If the parents are not involved in the life of the school and continuing with some of the things that we are instilling in the children then we are not going to have a successful school.” Cunningham is a native of Jamaica, where she served as vice
principal of a prominent school in Kingston. Among some of the positions she held in the education sector are lecturer at the University of Jamaica and school inspector in Jamaica where she went around and assessed schools. She is the wife of an Anglican priest and has no children. The CHHS principal emphasised that she takes her job very seriously. “I do it with all that I am able to and I like to get all persons working with me on board because I feel like if you do it on your own, when you have persons that you are supervising sometimes you may not get the results. “When everybody works together on a particular goal then you can get better results. “This is why I like working as a team; I like a challenge as well and I
New Principal of the Clement Howell High school (CHHS) Kadean Cunningham
like to explore new things.” Cunningham said that on coming to the Turks and Caicos Islands she saw it as a challenge and a stage in her development. She hoped to make an impact on
another set of young people as she would have done in Jamaica. Former principal of the school, Gerald Persaud resigned after serving at the school for two academic school years.
Community College gives out scholarships for new academic year BY DAISY HANDFIELD FOURTEEN students were awarded scholarships and grants to continue their studies at both of the Community College branches in the Turks and Caicos Islands during an awards ceremony at the Gansevoort in Providenciales on Friday (September 5). The money allocated for these scholarships was raised by the college’s foundation over the course of about a year and a half, conducting fundraising initiatives. About $50,000 was raised and more than 50 percent, $27,300 was awarded in scholarships on the day. During the ceremony, nine scholarships were awarded for Associate’s degrees and five grants for Bachelor’s degrees. Four were awarded in education, three in business design, four in business, two in hospitality and one in law. Among donors were Islandcom, Gansevoort, Airport Inn and Scotiabank. Scholarsip recipients were Kazz Wilson, Llodeka Handfield, Latavia Williams, Shantal Jasmin, Aldrieko
Harvey, Jennifer Moore, Orinnica Stubbs, Aaliyah Carmichael, Daleovaun Hardware, Jalayah Francis, Joneil Blair-Williams, Keisha Forbes, Bernadya Smith, and Angelique Garland. Claudette Munroe Clare, chair of the TCI Community College Foundation Board, said that it was a celebration of hard work because raising funds in these times was difficult. “The fact that we were able to raise closed to $50,000 is testimony to the commitment of this community. “It is a testament to this community’s interest in seeing that the college’s doors remain open.” In a past interview in early May prior to choosing recipients, Clare spoke on the criteria for the scholarship awards. She said that a full scholarship will cover the cost of tuition and $200 worth of books, while partial will only cover tuition. Munroe Clare said that high school graduates who have completed secondary education were the focal point for the scholarships. Students who had at least four CXCs or GCSE subjects, two at a
Students receive scholarships to continue studies at the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College
General Two or equivalent B grade or higher and two at General Three or C grade or higher, and students whose area of study falls between the priority areas that were outlined by Government. Students needed evidence of acceptance by the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College and
students had to produce a letter of legal status. Application requirements included two forms of identification, two letters of reference from old school community leaders, proof of parents or guardians’ annual income and a personal statement outlining why the Community College was
their choice for studies. Those who received scholarships must maintain a GPA of at least 2.75 and an attendance level of minimum 80 percent. The chair said that they initiated the income criteria so that they could focus and perhaps more objectively help students.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Church holds drug awareness and education session IN AN effort to bring awareness and educate to the public on the dangers of drug addition, the Saint Monica’s Anglican Church hosted a public session in partnership with the Drug Prevention Foundation. Monday evening’s discussions on this topic of growing concern in the community saw a very personal presentation from Lizzy Courey. She discussed issues relating to the disease of addiction; both for the addict and loved ones around them, along with recognising alcoholism and other drug addictions, and how to cope and get help.
Courey emphasised that the problem affects both adults and youths and is one that can trigger a cycle of addiction and pain that can continue through generations. Gerilane Rigby, former president of the Drug Prevention Foundation, said that the problem of addiction “is increasing and the more we [the community] develop, the more we are going to see it, so we have to make ourselves aware of what the drugs are and their symptoms.” She said that there is no reason to be unaware of the issue since much information and help is available.
One of the mandates of the non-profit foundation is to create awareness and provide aid to the drug unit; to supplement as an outreach arm. Throughout the years they have raised more than $100,000 for a much needed drug rehabilitation centre, she said. They also bring awareness to the community about the dangers of drug abuse by going into schools since she says that prevention and getting children knowledgeable very early is key. Jamell Robinson, the church’s
awareness and education coordinator, said that ever so often the church examines the needs of the community and hosts discussions on topics of relevant issues affecting the TCI. He said that it is part of their role to educate the public to make better
choices and get help if necessary. Previously, topics discussed included health and finance management, and violence; all to equip the community with information needed to enhance their lives and those around them. (KH)
Obituary
RIP Synthaia Saintil Young, beautiful and brave
Church’s education and awareness coordinator Jamell Robinson is flanked by members of the Drug Prevention Foundation
Health officials visit UK on fact finding mission SIX top Government health officials jetted off to the United Kingdon recently to learn about the role of the National Health Service (NHS). They spent ….days in London visiting medical facilities and finding out about managing the costs and values associated with public private partnerships. Porsha Stubbs-Smith, Minister for Health and Human Services, led the team on what she described as an “excellent learning experience”. She said: “It is the responsibility of TCIG to explore all options in regards to our healthcare system, and through our special relationship with the UK, we were able to
visit these medical facilities around London. “We were able to visit mental health, elderly and special needs facilities that successfully outsource management through public private partnerships. These were just two of many examples that could potentially be implemented in TCI.” The other members of the group were Desiree Lewis, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Human Services, Athenee Harvey, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, Dr Nadia Astwood, Director of Health Services Development in the Ministry of Health and Human Services, Zaneta Burton, Chief Executive Officer of the National
Health Insurance Board and Stephen Batts, adviser to Permanent Secretary, in the Ministry of Health and Human Services. During the trip they attended meetings at the Department of Health in North Middlesex University Hospital and Queen Mary’s Hospital with representatives from the National Audit Office, NHS National Property Services, NHS Contracting and the Public Finance Unit. The discussions focused on clinical services performance management, contract management and proper touring of the facilities. The group returned to office on Monday (September 8).
THE TURKS and Caicos Diabetic Association would like to express sincere condolences to the Saintil family (North Caicos) on the death of Synthaia Saintil. We are very saddened to hear that Synthaia went into a diabetic coma and was flown off island to seek additional medical attention and God saw fit to call her home. Our hearts go out to her family at this difficult time and we were blessed to have been graced with her as a young member of the association. The Turks and Caicos Islands Diabetic Association introduced nine-year-old Synthaia of North Caicos this year March. Synthaia was born with Diabetes and diagnosed in 2010. She joined the association in Providenciales all the way from North Caicos to attend the March 2014 diabetic monthly meeting. Her passion, dedication and drive in the meeting were beyond words. Synthaia was very keen throughout the
meeting as she attentively took notes. She also shared her heartfelt story with the group. After being diagnosed, Synthaia’s eating habits had to be adjusted. Her mother began to teach her more about diabetes and how to manage and treat it effectively. This included but was not limited to monitoring and testing herself on a regular basis and giving herself regular insulin shots. The Turks and Caicos Islands Diabetic Association would like to let parents and children know that you are never too young or too old to be diagnosed with diabetes. The incorporation of regular exercise and healthier eating habits into your lifestyle and the lifestyle of your children is recommended as it minimises your risk. The Turks and Caicos Islands Diabetic Association meets every first Tuesday of the month at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre conference room at 6pm.
September 13 - 19, 2014
NEWS 17
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Government appoints new senior staff SIX new senior managers have been appointed within the Turks and Caicos Islands Government. They will be working across several departments including education, information technology and finance. Deputy Governor Anya Williams made the announcement in a press release on Tuesday (September 9).
She said: “During the last year we have worked to fill several key vacancies across Government and have already begun to reap rewards from these appointments. “Several of the new senior appointments have come from within the civil service, while others are returning former civil
Alexia Durham, Charlene Higgs, Deputy Governor Anya Williams, Shonia Thomas Been and Andre Mills
servants and also some new candidates.” The appointees are deputy
Top police officer to attend FBI course ONE of the TCI’s most senior officers will be attending an intense leadership course hosted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) next year. Superintendent Kendal Grant, who is the Divisional Commander for Providenciales, North Caicos, and Middles Caicos, was selected from a long list of candidates. In a press release on Thursday (September 11) he said he was excited to the ten-week Senior Executive Strategic Leadership course in Quantico, Virginia, USA. “This is not just an opportunity to increase my knowledge to better fight crime but also an opportunity to network and build partnerships with our overseas colleagues.” Commissioner of Police Colin Farquhar nominated Grant to attend the FBI’s National Academy. He was then interviewed by Bill Nicholson, FBI’s assistant legal attaché from the Bahamas, before being accepted. The FBI National Academy is a professional course of study for United States and international law enforcement leaders. It serves to improve the administration of justice in police departments and agencies and to raise law enforcement standards, knowledge, and cooperation worldwide. Following graduation, Superintendent Grant will have the opportunity to join the FBI National Academy Associates, a dynamic organisation of more than 16,000 law enforcement professionals who actively work to continue developing higher levels of competency, cooperation, and integrity across the law enforcement community. The academy, which has been in operation since July 29, 1935, is specially geared for leaders and managers of police departments, military police organisations, and federal law enforcement agencies. Participation is by invitation only,
secretary of finance Shonia Thomas-Been, director of information technology Andre Mills, principal at Eliza Simons Primary School Juliette ArthurThadwell, supervisor at the Wellness Centre Alexia Durham, health educator Charlene Higgs and assistant District Commissioner in Middle Caicos Shamara Parker Williams said: “I would like to both welcome and congratulate these persons that will fill critical roles within the TCIG and would
like to wish them much success as they embark upon this new journey. “Together with their respective teams I believe that there is much that can be accomplished and look forward to positive results from their respective areas. “We aim to continue attracting great talent to the civil service and look forward to these new appointees taking part in our 21st Century Manager and other training programmes.”
The Towers of Babel Art is our language
For more information email towersofbabel101@gmail.com or visit www.towersofbabel.weebly.com
TheBy Twis WORD Flo Superintendent Grant will attend an FBI course next year
through a nomination process. They are drawn from every state, including
USA territories, and more than 160 international partner nations.
WIV goes digital FROM the end of this month all WIV Cable TV customers will have a digital television signal. The company will be upgrading all of its customers during September in order to provide better image and sound quality. The transfer will involve WIV technicians visiting all analogue customers to install digital set-top boxes at no additional cost. Digital television is a new
transmission standard offering advantages over analogue television. Customers can get more channels through a digital service and the same signal problems experienced with analogue signals do not occur. WIV was acquired by Digicel Turks and Caicos in April 2014 and is currently undergoing numerous upgrades to its broadband and digital cable TV infrastructure.
We live in a lie We living a lie We lie on our backs and think it’s protected Guns, bombs and knives are not the only weapons Everything is a weapon just look at passive aggression Feel free to think you’re free, with your chains coloured in gold Yeah you got two chains but they’re shackles linked to your soul Every form of art is a form of empowerment But tell me where is the art when you look at the Government Art is the physical form of an inner expression So express yourself UNSHEATHE, COCK and PRIME your weapons express yourself
SLICE, SHOOT and DETONATE express yourself MAIM, RELOAD OBLITERATE express yourself
and
Let’s get back to the art of creativity Bring your weapons of real destruction.
Lifestyle... 18
September 13 - 19, 2014
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
GARDENING
How does your garden grow
Prepare your garden in case of a tropical storm
LOTS of folks talk about hurricanes and tropical storms at this time of the year because of the heavy rains we had, and the chances of a tropical storm or a hurricane hitting us. I don’t like to be pessimist about it but I stand a risk of losing plants, and I most likely will if something happens. Safeguarding your garden from strong storms means taking both long-term and last-minute preparations. Long-term preparations are actually a combination of common sense and good tree care.
Much of the hurricane damage to homes is caused by trees that either break apart or are uprooted. Make sure the trees you plant are species that have proved themselves wind-resistant. Ficus for example, have a great chance of falling down during hurricanes. Where you plant your trees is important, too. Don’t plant large ones too close to buildings, or under or near power lines. And be sure to keep an eye on them as they grow. Regularly inspect any mature or over-mature trees on your property for structural weaknesses,
Weekly Recipe Katherine Withers Green, 27, is a mum of one 15-monthold avid pasta lover. She knows from experience that finding meals that are nutritious, quick and easy to make, and that can be frozen for a later date is tough. These recipes are aimed at mothers looking to make the transition from baby food to ‘real’ food.
general health and vigour. Large, mature trees, especially the ones that are diseased or weak, because they have great potential to cause damage during a hurricane or tropical storm. There are some others things you can do to better prepare your plants for a storm. Here are some steps you can take to better prepare yourself for a storm: 1. Know when the storm is likely to hit and plan on preparing a couple of days before. Do not attempt to go out in the storm and move stuff around. This will also give you ample time to clean any messy areas that could be hazardous. 2. Best to have any trees or leggy plants trimmed, this should be done as we enter storm season and not when storm is on way. Don’t do large trimming right before a storm. Those branches are now heavy projectiles.
BY DENIS Belanger - NATURE SPLENDOR
Denis is a passionate landscape architect who enjoys the creative process and his clients’ joy when projects come to life. Contact Denis at Nature Splendor for your landscaping, installation or garden maintenance needs. For more information call 332-3381 or email denis@naturesplendor.net.
3. Turn off irrigation; if possible shut down the main line or power. If a tree goes down and breaks the pipe, water will run and add more flooding. 4. Bring in delicate plants if possible. Any plant that has delicate leaves or stands tall will most likely take a hit. 5. Plants that you can’t bring in should be tucked into a corner. You can also use an entrance way, screen room, or garage to protect plants (careful not to block access). Large hedges can also make a good anchoring point as well. 6. Tall plants and trellises should be laid down (if possible). If too tall
YOUR DIET Tamika has a Master’s Degree in Dietetics and Nutrition from Florida International University and is a registered dietitian with the American Dietetic Association (ADA). She is currently executive director of Nutrition in Demand, a non-profit aimed at increasing awareness to health and healthy eating. For more information email tamikahandfield@yahoo.com or visit www.nutritionindemand.com. Call 242-3978 or 442-3978.
Chicken and apple balls This is a great favourite with my family. Grated apple adds a delicious flavour to these chicken balls, which makes them appealing to young children, and they are tasty hot or cold. Makes: 20 meat balls INGREDIENTS • 2 tsp light olive oil • 1 onion, finely chopped • 1 large granny smith apple, peeled and grated • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into chunks • ½ tbsp fresh parsley • 1 tbsp fresh thyme or sage, chopped, or a pinch of dried mixed herbs • 1 chicken stock cube, crumbled (for kids one year and up) • 50g fresh white breadcrumbs • Plain flour for coating • Vegetable oil for frying
METHOD • Heat the olive oil in a pan and sauté half the onion for about three minutes. • Using your hands, squeeze out a little excess liquid from the grated apple. • Mix the apple with the chicken, then add the cooked and remaining raw onion, herbs, stock cube (from one year) and breadcrumbs and roughly chop in a food processor for a few seconds. • With your hands, form into about 20 little balls - older kids will love helping with this bit! • Roll in flour and fry in shallow oil for about five minutes until lightly golden and cooked through. • You can freeze them after they have been cooked and you can then re heat in the microwave!
and heavy maybe try and anchor with rope and stakes. If trellises are staked in the ground, just pull them up and lay them on the ground with plant attached. 7. Pick any fruit that is close to being ripe; it will most likely get ripped off anyhow. 8. Bring in garden furniture. If garden furniture cannot be brought in, stack in a corner, by a fence, under a tree or in hedges, and tie it together and tie to fence, tree, or hedge. A child’s playground will also work as a good anchor point, unless it is smaller, then it must be moved and tied down as well. Try to lock furniture together by turning chairs upside down on each other and laying them down, then stack the table on top and tie. 9. Bring in the grill or tie it down as well. It’s not as heavy as you think. 10. Scan your yard for anything else that could turn into a projectile in heavy winds, ie. signs, gnomes, pots, the dog and other decorations. 11. Close all doors and windows on sheds, and reinforce if possible.
BY TAMIKA HANDFIELD
Making the most of your food dollars ONE of the most popular barriers to people eating and buying healthy foods is the myth that healthy foods are more expensive than junk food. This is not necessarily always true; however, if you feel like you can substantiate your claim by pointing out how a meal of fried chicken and fries cost less than a rotisserie chicken, think about the amount of money you can eventually spend in doctor visits and on medications. Ok, so I get that money is tight and sometimes it’s all you can do to make sure you and your family don’t go to bed hungry. However, I still believe there is a place where health and necessity can happily coexist. Below are a few suggestions that will hopefully help you spend less at the grocery store or at least get you thinking about ways you can save on groceries:
PLAN AHEAD It is important that you take a few minutes out of the week and plan what you would like to feed your family during the upcoming week then make a list of all the needed ingredients and go shopping for those things. This helps you to save time as well as prevent those impulsive grocery store stops that usually end in you buying much more than you originally stopped for. LOOK FOR SALES I know you are probably laughing and saying: “Is this a joke?!” Sales are few and far between but they do exist in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Many grocery stores in Providenciales (I am unsure of the other islands) offer their patrons sales to help them save money. A word of caution though, ensure
that you read all sale flyers, shelf tags and check and double check your receipt to guarantee you are getting the price that is being advertised. BUY IN BULK A normal progression of having a sale is so that you can afford to buy more things for less money. A sale is a good time to stock up on items that you do not need to buy every week; things such as toothpaste, soap and other toiletries even food items like rice and canned goods can be bought in bulk. You can also buy meats in large quantities; however, only do this if you are certain you can use it all before it goes bad and have the space to properly store it. These are just a few of the many options that you can choose to help you make healthier food choices even when the money is looking funny.
September 13 - 19, 2014
Lifestyle... FASHION AND BEAUTY
19
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
ECO Tip By Easher Parker
Easher is a Turks and Caicos Islands native with a natural talent for writing and a love for all things beauty and style. If you have any questions or suggestions for a topic email easherparker@gmail.com. To find out more visit itseasher.com or follow twitter or Instagram @itseasher for fab instant updates.
Mastering the black and white palette IF YOU ask me to recommend two colours that would make a trendy, sophisticated pallet for the fall season, I’d say “noir avec blanche”. That’s foreign for “Black and white? So in!” Now you may be thinking or have heard at some point that black and white are effortless colours. There is a popular assumption that they can be worn in any fashion. Wrong, wrong and wrong. It is very easy to turn out looking like chaos and discord personally dressed you for the occasion with this colour combo. Luckily this basic guide that you now have at your fingertips will help to steer you clear from the local fashion police. Although who pays attention to them anyway?
GET SOME RHYTHM
Rhythm or movement is one in the same thing on the list of elements and principals of design. This is information I had to familiarise myself with as an art student and if you’re a real style enthusiast like me this will become something much like a favourite Bible verse or one of your ten commandments. Visual movement is used by artists to direct viewers through their work. In this case, our art work is a stellar outfit. This can be done through the use of lines, edges, and shapes. You also have texture to play with. The whole point of rhythm is to move the eyes easily. You don’t want any awkward stops. They’re the kind that would make you say “something isn’t quite right with this”. This piece of knowledge is essential for the remaining points of this guide.
ACCESSORIES AND SHOES
You can use your accessories to add a pop of colour or focal point to a limited colour scheme such as this one. Focal point, another principal and element of design term, pairs beautifully with movement. Think how your eyes would navigate across an outfit that’s paired with red shoes, a black bottom and jewellery with hints of sapphire or a daring turquoise hue. You can even add something as classic as a flower to turn your black and white into a stand-out piece. MAKE UP AND HAIR Black and white is a perfect palette for elegant up dos or dramatic make up. If you and I have anything in common, this is the part where you leap for joy. On the flipside black and white has the potential to wash out your natural tone. This combination would work well in the evening time. It welcomes smoky eyes, a rich lip hue and a mani to die for. A simple look featuring a sultry brow and a tinge more blush topped off with your favourite lip colour would be enough for daytime. Of course I always recommend getting to know your body and what flatters your figure the most if you really want to set things on fire. Also remember to have fun while discovering or exploring your own personal tastes. Remember, information like this can give you the edge you’re looking for but don’t take it too seriously. Isn’t dress up supposed to be fun? Don’t hesitate to share your looks with me via email. You can also find me on Twitter or Instagram, simply tag @itseasher!
Lynn Robinson has lived in the Turks and Caicos Islands for 12 years and works at Big Blue Unlimited as a diving instructor, eco guide and boat captain. She is passionate about the environment and does regular beach clean ups while walking her three potcakes. Her other passion is running and can often be seen training for marathons and ultra-marathons.
By Lynn Robinson
Cleaning with white vinegar ASIDE from baking soda, another favourite and safe cleaning product is good old white vinegar. Vinegar has been around for years and is most commonly used as a condiment for a variety of foods. However, there are many more uses for this cheap and safe alternative around the home and garden as it cleans, sanitises, deodorises, gets rid of ants and other insects and also kills weeds. Vinegar is a weak form of acetic acid that is produced through the fermentation of sugars and starches and has been used throughout history. Legend has it that even as far back as 5000BC the civilization of ancient Babylonia discovered that grape juice left unattended formed wine which eventually turned into vinegar. The Babylonians later discovers that using vinegar as a preservative slowed and stopped the action of bacteria that spoils food.
You can make your own safe, cheap, antibacterial cleaning solution by adding orange or other citrus peels to a quart of white vinegar and leaving for two weeks in a sealed container. Then drain the vinegar/citrus solution and add to the same amount of water in a recycled spray bottle and use for cleaning worktops, tiles, floors, showers etc around the home. The many other uses of vinegar, aside from putting on your fish and chips, include - Cleaning windows. Instead of expensive and toxic window cleaning products, simply spray vinegar onto windows and glass and rub off with newspaper for a streak free clean. - Remove stickers by moistening with vinegar. Let sit for 10 minutes then remove. - Deter ants by spraying vinegar around doorways, countertops and windowsills. If you find an
ant trail, clean with vinegar. - Soak showerheads in vinegar overnight to remove corrosion and build up. - Remove stains from the toilet bowl by spraying with vinegar and rinsing off (this can also be done with the not so healthy drink, cola!). - Make your laundry brighter by simply add half a cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle. The acetic acid will dissolve the soap residue and also acts as a fabric softener, reduces static and inhibits mildew. - Many stains such as coffee, ketchup, wine, and chocolate can be removed from fabrics by gently rubbing the stain with vinegar prior to washing. - Prevent mildew in the shower by spraying vinegar onto the walls, tiles and shower curtain. So start saving money, saving the environment and avoid toxic cleaning products around the home.
POLICE SAFETY TIPS
Think like a burglar BURGLARS are not fussy where they break into. They look for the easy options. It is therefore important to make your property look less appealing to burglars. But can you make your property look harder to break into? It is time to start thinking like a burglar. Here is a surprisingly effective way of spotting the vulnerabilities in your property’s security. Lock yourself out of your property and then think about how you’d break in. Faced with this challenge, you will start to think creatively about how a burglar might gain entry. You may spot open windows. You may see walls and trash cans as being props for gaining entry. If it’s dark, you may notice that certain areas of the property are unlit. You may even notice access points that you had forgotten existed! Burglars look for the weak link - the ‘chink in your property’s armour’. By simply spending five minutes looking at your property from a burglar’s point of view, you can identify your property’s weak spots.
By Audley Astwood Audley, a former police detective and broadcaster, is currently the press officer for the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. His main focus is on crime prevention and community policing. For more information call 941-4448 or visit www.tcipolice.tc.
When you go away for a few days, don’t leave clues. Also, ask a trusted neighbour to check on your property daily. Lights on timers can give the illusion that someone is in the property. Another thing to look for is safe havens. Are there any parts of your property that could allow an intruder to work undetected? For example, ensure that a garage is fitted with secure locks, and that any door leading from the garage is particularly secure. Electronically protected upand-over garage doors can provide good security. Also, be aware that high hedges and bushes can screen a burglar from the road or from neighbours. Make sure sheds are securely padlocked and possibly alarmed. Tools in the shed could be used against you: for example, a hammer could be used to break glass, or a spade could be used to lever open a
window. Keep ladders locked away because a burglar could use nearby items as props. Ladders are particularly useful to burglars, so make sure you keep yours locked up. If a ladder must be stored outside, padlock it to the wall with special brackets. Accessible windows. Burglars hate broken glass. Although they often gain entry via a window, they usually do so by breaking the glass then opening the window using the handle. Fit locks to all windows, especially those with easy access for example, ones that are near flat roofs - or that could be accessed by climbing a drain pipe. Of course the tips offered each week are just a small part of what needs to be done to secure your valuables. Share these tips with your neighbours and get proactive in the fight against crime.
20
Regional News
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
September 13 - 19, 2014
“Marijuana tourism” a key topic at upcoming Caribbean conference THE deputy chief executive officer of Jamaica’s first medical marijuana company, Richard Kildare, will lead of debate on the notion or reality of marijuana tourism during the Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s (CTO) State of the Industry Conference (SOTIC) later this month. The September 17-19 conference will be held in the United States Virgin Islands and apart from Kildare, presentations will also come from Dr. James Hospedales, the executive director of the Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), and Josef Woodman, the chief executive officer and founder of Patients Beyond Borders. Rory Johnston, a PhD student at the faculty of health sciences at Simon Fraser University in Canada, will present on the ethical and legal implications, as well as the risks associated with medical tourism. “This presentation will provide an overview of the key challenges that medical tourism poses to the operation of equitable health systems – those that are accessible to local populations and responsive to their needs. “Examples will be drawn from both established medical tourism destinations and projects being pursued in the Caribbean to explore how negative health equity impacts can emerge and ways in which they might be anticipated and minimised,” Johnston said. The CTO said that the debate surrounding marijuana tourism has taken a sharper focus in recent months following its legalisation for
Tourism Minister Obie Wilchcombe said the government could not avoid moving forward with regularising number houses because the Central Bank of the Bahamas warned that unregulated web shops were expected to harm the financial services sector.
Bahamas proposes sweeping changes to gaming industry
Legislators will argue that if “marijuana tourism” is implemented it will bring a lot of funds to the region.
recreational use by two US states, including Colorado. Uruguay has also become the first country in the world to make it legal to grow, sell and consume cannabis. Since it became legal to smoke marijuana in Colorado at the start of the year, there have been several reports of a boom in arrivals from both within and outside the United States. The Colorado office of state planning and budgeting reported US$19 million in tax revenue from recreational marijuana during the first half of the year, although it didn’t say how much of that was from tourism versus local buyers. “The Caribbean has an interest in this subject, the Caribbean has an interest in attracting visitors to our shores, and so medical tourism,
including the discussion about marijuana, is going to be one of the parts of the debate that we have,” said CTO secretary general, Hugh Riley. “One of the interesting aspects of that particular debate is looking at the medical evidence because it’s important that we do not look at one particular aspect. At the end of the day we have to make decisions that are in the best interest of the people of the Caribbean,” Riley added, noting that now is an opportune time to have a debate on the issue. “We can pretend it doesn’t exist and the rest of the world isn’t talking about it or we can deal with it head on, debate it, look at the facts and then move on to the next action,” he said.
US Virgin Islands gets federal grant for tsunami preparedness THE United States Virgin Islands’ Territorial Emergency Management Agency will soon be receiving a $263,072 grant for tsunami preparedness. The grant is coming from the United States’ National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, aiming to help carry out tsunami preparedness and warning activities in the territory. “I would like to commend the dedicated staff at VITEMA and Director Elton Lewis for their hard work in promoting awareness of the dangers of tsunami and other natural disasters, as well as the upgrades to the alert and warning system,” USVI Congresswoman Donna Christensen said in a statement. The funds will support VITEMA’s Territorial Tsunami Preparedness and Education Initiative.
The grant will include the implementation of warning activities, including information distribution and the installation of evacuation signs throughout the territory.
That will include the implementation of warning activities, including information distribution and the installation of evacuation
signs throughout the territory. The USVI already has 14 tsunami warning signs in the territory. (Carib Journal)
THE GOVERNMENT of The Bahamas has decided to go against the result of referendum and press on with the proposed comprehensive legislation aimed at regularising the gaming industry in the country. The referendum to legalize gambling for citizens in January 2013, which cost taxpayers $1.2m, resulted in a ‘no’ majority vote. Nevertheless, Tourism Minister Obie Wilchcombe said the government could not avoid moving forward with regularising number houses because the Central Bank of the Bahamas warned that unregulated web shops were expected to harm the financial services sector. Casinos on the islands have applauded the proposed regulations, claiming they would help to expand The Bahamas’ international tourism industry, which accounts for approximately 55 percent of all Bahamian jobs and nearly half of the country’s gross domestic product. Wilchcombe introduced the relevant legislation in the House of Assembly on 3 September. “I am pleased today to bring to Parliament a new cutting edge comprehensive Gaming Bill, Gaming Regulations and Gaming House Regulations, which are designed to more effectively control and revolutionise Gaming in The Bahamas for the greater benefit of the economy and people of our country,” he said. The proposed new regulations would allow casino licensees that are licensed on or before 1 February 2015 and are part of a resort hotel to operate remote wagering and proxy wagering systems. Players would also be able to place a bet without physically being on site, via proxy and technical aids. They could also wager online and via mobile gaming devices from anywhere on the campus of a licensed casino facility. The law would also introduce a streamlined process for enforcement of all debts incurred by gaming activities at a licensed casino and expedite the process by which licensed operators can collect debts from patrons once they leave the jurisdiction. Casinos would also be able to accept wagers on a sports event after the game has started and remains underway. Mega-resort Baha Mar said the changes also would help the $3.5 billion integrated gaming resort
become a greater driver of the Bahamian economy after its grand opening in late spring 2015. “These regulatory updates would provide The Bahamas and Baha Mar with a sustainable competitive advantage, which is vital for an economy driven by international tourism,” Sarkis Izmirlian, Baha Mar’s chairman and chief executive officer, said. “The Bahamas has long been known as a stable gaming jurisdiction, and these new regulations would put us on a level playing field with the world’s most successful casino markets such as Las Vegas, Singapore and Macau. The regulations also would allow us to offer private VIP gaming salons, enhanced lines of credit, gaming junkets and other amenities vital to attracting affluent international casino customers.” Paul Pusateri, Baha Mar’s chief operating officer, said, “The new regulations and laws would enhance Baha Mar’s ability to generate strong gaming revenues. Technology-driven amenities such as internet gaming, mobile gaming and in-play sports betting will help differentiate The Bahamas in the highly competitive gaming sector. They definitely will help Baha Mar attract players from the Eastern United States, Latin America, Asia and other markets that will be important to our success.” Although voter turnout was said to be low, Bahamian voters rejected a referendum to legalize gambling for citizens on Monday, 28 January 2013. The two-part referendum asked whether the gambling shops should be legalized, regulated and taxed, and if the government should create its own national lottery. Noting that the government owed the public “an appreciative apology”, Wilchcombe told reporters last week, “But when the Central Bank raises a red flag and says a problem is developing we have to, because of our financial services sector being in jeopardy (and) facing difficulties, then we had to make a decision and the best decision was to regulate (the sector). We had the Attorney General travel around the world and talk to individuals to ensure that we were putting the legislation the way it needed to be done and it could stand up to scrutiny. We think we have done a good job.” (CNS)
September 13 - 19, 2014
Regional News Caribbean politicians win in Democratic Party Primaries A HAITIAN American candidate has created history by becoming the first politician of Haitian descent to win the Democratic Party Primary election for a seat in the New York State Legislature. Rodneyse Bichotte, who was born and raised in Brooklyn to Haitian immigrants, handsomely defeated Jamaican-born economist and accountant Rickie Tullock by 20 percentage points to win the Primary in the 42nd State Assembly District in Brooklyn, according to the preliminary figures released here on Tuesday night. Since New York is heavily Democratic, winners in the Primary elections are considered shoo-ins to win the general elections in November. With 100 per cent of the Polling Precincts reported, Bischotte, who was the District Leader of the 42nd State Assembly District, received 47.4 per cent, or 2,669 votes, to Tulloch’s 29.7 per cent, or 1,592 votes. The other candidates in the race were Haitian Michele Adolphe, who received 800 voters, or 14 per cent and Guyanese Victor Jordan, who received 306 votes, or 5.7 per cent. “We did it!,” exclaimed Bichotte to jubilant supporters at her campaign headquarters. “I am humbled and exceedingly grateful to have received the confidence of the people of the 42nd Assembly District to serve as their next
Assemblywoman in the New York State Assembly. “Our success…at the polls would not be possible without the support and effort of a dedicated team of volunteers, campaign staff, and supporters who came together to make (the) victory possible,” she added. Two other Caribbean American candidates were also successful in the Primary Elections. New York State Senator John L. Sampson, whose father is Guyanese, survived a challenge as three other candidates split votes for the 19th Senatorial District in Brooklyn. Sampson is under US federal indictment on charges that he embezzled more than US$400,000 from the sale of foreclosed homes. He said he is vigorously fighting the charges. “We had the governor, the mayor and some of my colleagues in the Assembly who didn’t want to see this happen,” Sampson told supporters. “Prosperity breeds friends, adversity proves it. It is going to be a different John Sampson.” In Queens, voters in the 14th New York State Senatorial District turned against State Senator Malcolm A. Smith, who is accused of bribery in his bid for the 2013 New York City mayoral ballot. Smith lost by a landslide to former New York City Councilman Leroy Comrie, of Jamaican parentage.
India among top recipients of remittances from Cayman Islands
CAYMAN Islands may be widely known as a ‘tax haven’ and a major route for overseas investment flows, but India has surprisingly emerged as a top destination of ‘worker remittances’ from that British Overseas Territory. An estimated $2.5 million has been sent via worker remittances to India by Cayman Islands licenced entities since 2011, according to official data released by CIMA, the primarly financial services regulator of the offshore financial centre situated in the Caribbean sea. These remittances came through over 3,500 transactions. As per Reserve Bank of India’s Liberalised Remittance Scheme, resident individuals may remit up to $125,000 per financial year (April-March) for any permitted capital and current account transactions or a combination of both. The Cayman Islands economy is mainly fuelled by tourism sector and
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financial services sector. These two together represent 70-80 per cent of the country’s GDP. Jamaica is the top recipient of remittances from Cayman Islands by a wide margin as it received over $350 million between 2011 and March 2014. It is followed by Philippines, Honduras, United States, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Columbia, Guyana, among others. These have received remittances in the range of $2-20 million each fiscal. The data has been collected by Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA) from about half a dozen licenced Money Service Providers (MSPs). Cayman Islands is among nations that are in the radar of Indian regulators as these tax-neutral destinations are often used for round-tripping Indians’ money back into the capital market in the form of overseas funds. (India Times)
The Bahamas: ‘Increase minimum wage before VAT’ – Says FNM shadow finance minister Turnquest FNM Shadow minister for Finance Peter Turnquest on Sunday said it was critical for the government to address minimum wage concerns before the implementation of Value Added Tax (VAT). Mr Turnquest also renewed concerns over the government’s haste to implement the new tax in comparison to other jurisdictions, adding that attempts to “do a million things all at once” was a recipe for disaster. “It’s critical,” he said. “You don’t want people in the hole per se and then have to figure out how to get them out. We need to have all of these conversations before VAT is implemented.” “As we look at the increase in cost of living as a result of this VAT, and all of the taxes that this government has put on the Bahamian people, we have to consider whether we are putting ordinary Bahamians at a disadvantage in terms of falling below that poverty line.” National statistics released in June revealed that 12.8 per cent of the population are living in poverty, with a 3.5 per cent hike in the annual poverty line since the last recorded study in 2001, from $2,863 to $4,247. The annual minimum wage for public servants increased from $10,700 to $11,500 in July with the promise to renegotiate further increases if the government generates greater revenue from natural resources.
FNM Shadow minister for finance
However, the wage minimum for the private sector remains at $150 weekly/$4 per hour – an estimated $7,800 annually. Labour Director Robert Farquharson told The Tribune last month that he was optimistic that there would be an increase in the private sector minimum wage. Mr Farquharson said private sector consultation was on track to present recommendations to Labour Minister Shane Gibson for deliberation in Cabinet before the end of the year. He added that while he could not speak for stakeholders, the initial research phase of the consultation process was moving forward amicably. His comments came days after Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation chairman Robert Myers renewed concerns over the dangers of a minimum wage increase. Mr Myers warned that it was “dangerous” for the Christie administration to promise a
minimum wage increase without any empirical data to assess the consequences, especially given that business operating costs in the Bahamas were already too high. The government plans to implement VAT at a rate of 7.5 per cent on January 1. This weekend, the Ministry of Finance released updated guidelines on the new tax and transitional arrangements. Mr Turnquest said: “I’m understanding that the VAT implementation team and the department is still in the process of being set up that they have not gotten all of the organisation in place yet or the people in place yet. We’re trying to do a million things all at once, it’s a recipe for disaster. Hopefully, we’ll get it together but in my mind it’s a little quick.” “If you go back to the experience of all of the other countries that have implemented VAT, there was almost two to three years between the time that they passed the legislation and actually did the implementation. We’re trying to do it in less than four months, that is incredibly ambitious.” He said: “I don’t believe that we have done enough study and analysis of the economy to be able to determine whether in fact we need to look at things like wage adjustments and if we’re going to give social service, what level of social services need to be done and how we’re going to do it. “ Mr Turnquest noted that the Free National Movement has not held a caucus meeting on the issue of minimum wage; however, he said that the party’s position was in support of Bahamian workers.
Famed US Hindu palm reader killed on vacation in Trinidad TRINIDAD police say they are working on the theory that a United States resident was shot and killed during a botched robbery in San Fernando, south of Port-of-Spain, earlier this week. Media reports said that famed Hindu palm reader Mahadeo Jerrybandhan, 74, a resident of Key West, Florida, who was on vacation, was shot and killed at his son’s home on Monday night. He was shot once to the head in a bedroom and his daughter-in-law, Sharlene Mootoo, said she last saw him with his two nephews preparing for Pitri Paksh, an auspicious period in the Hindu religious calendar. “When we looked we saw someone
Media reports said that famed Hindu palm reader Mahadeo Jerrybandhan was shot while on vacation in T&T.
running out of the front gate. We went to the front bedroom and saw him (Jerrybandhan) lying in the bathroom of the front bedroom. He had one gunshot wound to his head,” she told reporters. Mootoo said Jerrybandhan, a retired secondary school teacher, came to Trinidad annually to observe the religious period. “This is weird. Just out of the blue this happened. We are still in shock. He was a man who exercised, did yoga and ate healthy all the time. I believe he knew his attackers and in a panic they shot and killed him because he would have been able to identify them,” Mootoo said. So far this year, 292 people have been murdered here. (CMC)
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September 13 - 19, 2014
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Entertainment
September 13 - 19, 2014
Man Booker Prize: Howard Jacobson makes shortlist FORMER Booker winner Howard Jacobson is among the three British writers, two Americans and an Australian to make this year’s shortlist. The other writers are Neel Mukherjee, Ali Smith, Joshua Ferris, Karen Joy Fowler and Richard Flanagan. It is the first year the prize has included US writers, having previously included those from the Commonwealth, Ireland and Zimbabwe. The winner of the £50,000 prize will be announced on 14 October. The shortlisted authors each receive £2,500 and a specially bound edition of their book. AC Grayling, the chair of the judges, said they “just chose the books which were the best”, adding “there was no question of tokenism”. “As the Man Booker Prize expands its borders, these six exceptional books take the reader on journeys around the world, between the UK, New
The books were whittled down from a long list of 13.
York, Thailand, Italy, Calcutta and times past, present and future,” he said. Judge Sarah Churchwell said the books carried modern themes, adding: “These novels are very engaged with the contemporary world. “It is striking when we look at the books selected in the recent past how strong historical fiction was. Although we got many wonderful historical novels we felt with these six, that there were some very interesting
books here about the 20th and 21st Century.” She later added that Smith’s novel does feature the Renaissance era, but from a modern perspective. Previous winners of the prize have included Hilary Mantel, whose 2012 winner Bringing up the Bodies, was about Thomas Cromwell, an adviser to King Henry VIII, and charted the bloody downfall of Anne Boleyn. It was the sequel to Wolf Hall, which won the prize in 2009.
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Middleton cancels more engagements due to morning sickness during second pregnancy
Kate Middleton has been suffering from a second go-around with hyperemesis gravidarum, the extreme form of morning sickness that she experienced while pregnant with Prince George over a year ago.
THE Duchess of Cambridge has canceled at least two more public appearances due to her severe morning sickness. Kate Middleton, 32, will miss brother-in-law Prince Harry’s launch events for New Zealand’s Invictus Games on Wednesday and Thursday, Us Weekly reports. “The Duchess of Cambridge will not attend the Opening Ceremony of the Invictus Games this evening or the Athletics event tomorrow,” a statement from Kensington Palace read, according to the magazine. She may also cancel her upcoming solo trip to Malta, but a decision has not yet been made, the Palance reportedly said.
“The Duchess’s attendance on the forthcoming visit to Malta will be kept under review and a decision taken closer to the time.” Middleton has been suffering from a second go-around with hyperemesis gravidarum, the extreme form of morning sickness that she experienced while pregnant with Prince George over a year ago. Prince Harry offered condolences for Middleton, speaking to media Monday about his brother Prince William’s growing family. “It’s very exciting news,” he said. “(Prince George) will be over the moon.” “I can’t wait to see my brother suffer more. If it’s a girl, he’ll suffer even more. I’d love to see him try and cope with that.” Prince Harry, 29, added that he hopes Middleton “gets better soon.”
“The last time I saw her, she was okay,” he said. “Feeling pretty poorly, but I think that’s to be expected. Luckily I’m not a woman so I don’t have to go through that. It’s a pretty horrible thing.” News of the Duchess of Cambridge’s second pregnancy came Monday in a statement from Clarence House. “Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are very pleased to announce that The Duchess of Cambridge is expecting their second child,” it read. “The Queen and members of both families are delighted with the news.” The announcement came as explanation for why Middleton would be missing an engagement in Oxford scheduled for that day. (NYdailynews)
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U2 band members joined Tim Cook (left) onstage at the Apple event in Cupertino, California.
New U2 album given away for free to iTunes users THE first album in five years by veteran Irish rock band U2 has been offered for free to the 500 million users of Apple’s iTunes service. The surprise announcement was made at a California event where Apple CEO Tim Cook unveiled the firm’s latest iPhone and a new smartwatch. The band also performed live at the event. U2 lead singer Bono described the release of the 11-track album, Songs of Innocence, as “kind of mindblowing”. “The most personal album we’ve written could be shared with half a billion people - by hitting send,” Bono said. “If only songwriting was that easy.” U2’s last album, No Line on the Horizon, hit the top spot in the UK charts in 2009 and eventually surpassed the five-million-sales mark worldwide. However, Bono
was quoted as saying that he was disappointed with the response and told the Guardian that year that he feared the concept of an album was “almost an extinct species”. The Irish band is famed for producing some of the landmark albums of the 1980s and early 1990s, including The Joshua Tree and Achtung Baby. There had been some speculation this year that the band were planning a new album. However, the free release at the Apple event had not been anticipated. Several prominent artists including Beyonce - have released surprise albums recently, although the practice remains a novelty. Free album releases by major artists are a rarity. Radiohead initially released In Rainbows in 2007 as a pay-whatyou-want download.
September 13 - 19, 2014
Entertainment
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Richard Kiel, James Bond villain Jaws actor, dies at 74
Jamaican recording artistes Chronixx and Tessanne Chin will vie for the Bob Marley Award for Entertainer of the Year at the upcoming International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA).
Chronixx and Tessanne Chin lead IRAWMA nominations INTERNATIONALLY acclaimed Jamaican recording artistes Chronixx and Tessanne Chin will vie with each other, Sean Paul, Jimmy Cliff and Soja for the Bob Marley Award for Entertainer of the Year at the upcoming International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), to be staged at the Coral Spring Center for the Arts in Florida on Saturday October 4. Reggae sensation Chronixx copped three other IRAWMA nominations in the shape of Male Vocalist of the Year, Best Song for “Smile Jamaica” and Best Music Video for “Here Comes Trouble,” making him the man to match at this year’s edition of the annual awards.
Meanwhile, Tessanne Chin, who has been riding a wave of popularity since winning season five of American talent show The Voice, bagged a second nomination for Female Vocalist of the Year. Earning three nods each were crossover stars, Sean Paul and Shaggy, with Paul’s nomination for Entertainer of the Year joined by nods for Best Caribbean Entertainer and Best Crossover Song (alongside Arash), while Shaggy is in the running for Best Song (“Fight This Feeling” alongside Beres Hammond), Best Album (“Out of Many One Music”) and Best Male Disc Jockey/Rapper.
Katy Perry is a lady in red inside Harper’s Bazaar’s October issue.
Perry wants a boyfriend who won’t be ‘intimidated’ by her KATY Perry has learned to love herself first. The 29-year-old singer, who has gone through very public breakups over the last few years, opened up to the October issue of Harper’s Bazaar about how she turned to therapy. “What I’ve learned is that if you don’t have the foundation of selflove first, you really have nowhere to pull love from to give it away,” she
told the magazine. “I had to learn about taking care of myself before I could take care of others. I want to ‘mommy’ everyone. I want to take care of them. I want to save them, and I forget myself in the meantime. I learned that through therapy.” Perry said in her past relationships, she was faced with people who were “intimidated” by her success.
ACTOR Richard Kiel - who played steel-toothed villain Jaws in two James Bond films - has died in California aged 74. The towering American star, who appeared in The Spy Who Loved Me in 1977 and Moonraker in 1979, died in hospital in Fresno on Wednesday. A spokeswoman for Saint Agnes Medical Center confirmed Kiel’s death, but did not reveal the cause. The 7ft 2in (2.18m) actor also appeared in the sports comedy Happy Gilmore, starring Adam Sandler, in 1996. Kiel made his name as cablechomping henchman Jaws opposite Roger Moore as 007. Sir Roger said he was “totally distraught” at the death of his co-star. “We were on a radio programme together just a week ago,” said the former Bond star, adding “[I] can’t take it in”. Kiel and Sir Roger were guests on BBC’s Radio 4 programme The Reunion, which aired on Sunday, along with Bond actress Britt Ekland, recalling their roles in the spy series. During the programme, Kiel said he initially thought playing Jaws - a man who killed people with his teeth - could appear “over the top”. “I was very put off by the
Sir Roger Moore (right) said he was “distraught” at co-star Kiel’s death, a week after they reunited for a radio show
description of the character and I thought, well, they don’t really need an actor, he’s more a monster part,” he said. “So I tried to change that view of it... I said if I were to play the part, I want to give the character some human characteristics, like perseverance, frustration.” Born in Detroit, Michigan, Kiel had the hormonal condition acromegaly, which was said to have contributed to his height. His first break came in 1959 when he played the alien Kanamit in
Twilight Zone. He published an autobiography in 2002, called Making It Big In The Movies. His many other acting roles included deadly assistant Voltaire in the 1960s TV series The Wild, Wild West; playing opposite William Shatner in the 1970s TV sitcom Barbary Coast; taking on the lead character of Eli Weaver in the movie The Giant of Thunder Mountain; and spoofing his most famous role as “Famous big guy with silver teeth” in the movie version of Inspector Gadget.
LaBeouf pleads guilty in Broadway meltdown, must get more alcohol help ACTOR Shia LaBeouf has settled charges related to his summer meltdown on Broadway by agreeing to get more alcohol abuse treatment. LaBeouf appeared at a Manhattan court Wednesday to plead guilty to one count of disorderly conduct under a deal that drops his trespass and harassment charges. The sentence requires LaBeouf, who has been getting outpatient alcohol treatment since his arrest, to continue treatment for another three months. The disorderly conduct conviction will be withdrawn if he completes the treatment and does not get arrested in the next six months. The “Transformers” actor was initially arrested by New York police on June 26 “for refusing to leave a theatrical performance when asked, for creating unreasonable noise and using obscene language outside of Studio 54, and for spitting at a police officer at the Midtown North police precinct,” Assistant District Attorney Alyssa Russell said in court Wednesday. The criminal complaint said LaBeouf was sitting in the audience in a theater at Studio 54, watching a performance of “Cabaret,” when he yelled “loudly at the actors onstage” and refused to leave. As a police officer escorted the
The sentence requires LaBeouf, who has been getting outpatient alcohol treatment since his arrest, to continue treatment for another three months. The disorderly conduct conviction will be withdrawn if he completes the treatment and does not get arrested in the next six months.
actor out of the theater, LaBeouf allegedly said, “ “F--- you. This is f--ing bull---. Do you know my life? Do you know who the f--- I am? Do you know who I am,” the complaint said. At the police precinct, the actor spat in the direction of the officer and cursed at him, according to prosecutors. “We appreciate the thoughtfulness of the resolution by the district attorney’s office,” LaBeouf’s attorney Robert Gage told CNN after
the hearing. LaBeouf must return to court on November 12 to prove he has completed the alcohol treatment. He rose to fame at age 14 as the star of the Disney series “Even Stevens.” He has stayed busy with regular movie and TV roles, including starring in three “Transformers” films. Of late, he has played in films with a more literary appeal, such as “Nymphomaniac” and “The Necessary Death of Charlie Countryman.” (CNN)
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September 13 - 19, 2014
Scottish independence:
Cameron, Clegg and Miliband make Scotland ‘No’ vote plea THE leaders of the main UK parties have travelled to Scotland to urge voters to reject independence in the referendum. Prime Minister David Cameron said he would be “heartbroken” in the event of a “Yes” vote, while Labour leader Ed Miliband said the case for the Union came from the “head, heart and soul”. Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond said the leaders could not be trusted. Meanwhile, a new opinion poll has suggested 47.6% of voters back “No”, 42.4% “Yes”, with 10% undecided. The new poll, by Survation for the Daily Record, was conducted before the Westminster party leaders announced their campaign visits. Mr Cameron and Mr Miliband abandoned their usual Prime Minister’s Questions session in the House of Commons to head north, after other recent opinion polls suggested the referendum race was now neck and neck. Although the three leaders campaigned separately, they each called on voters to keep Scotland in the United Kingdom. The three leaders have backed a plan of action spearheaded by former prime minister Gordon Brown,
The bank said in a statement that it believed it would be “necessary to re-domicile the bank’s holding company”.
Scottish independence: RBS confirms London HQ move if Scotland votes ‘Yes’ Ed Miliband speaks to a packed room in Cumbernauld, Scotland. (Photograph: Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
which they have said would see work begin on the handover of new powers on 19 September, the day after the referendum. Speaking in Edinburgh, Mr Cameron - who Downing Street has confirmed will return to Scotland on Monday - said he was often asked whether his party would find it easier to win UK elections without Scotland, which currently has one Tory MP. He responded: “My answer to that is, I care far more about my country than I do about my party. “I care hugely about this
extraordinary country, this United Kingdom that we’ve built together. “I would be heartbroken if this family of nations that we’ve put together - and we’ve done such amazing things together - if this family of nations was torn apart.” Mr Cameron also said the referendum result was irreversible, adding: “Because it’s a ballot, I think people can feel it’s a bit like a general election, that you make a decision and, five years later, you can make another decision, if you’re fed up with the effing Tories, give them a kick and maybe we’ll think again.
ROYAL Bank of Scotland has confirmed it will relocate its registered headquarters to London if Scotland votes for independence next week. The bank said in a statement that it believed it would be “necessary to re-domicile the bank’s holding company”. In a letter to staff, the bank’s chief executive said there was no intention to move operations or jobs. Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond has accused the Treasury of leaking sensitive market data about RBS. Meanwhile, Scotland’s largest fund manager’s boss said an independent Scotland would be a huge success. Martin Gilbert, chief executive of
Aberdeen Asset Management said: “I think an independent Scotland would be a big success, but it is a secret ballot and I will abide by that. “Most sensible people now accept that Scotland would be prosperous with either outcome in the current constitutional debate.” RBS chief executive Ross McEwan sent a letter to staff on Thursday morning, which said he did not believe moving the bank’s registered headquarters would have any impact on its everyday banking services. The letter stated: “It is my view as chief executive that any decision to move our registered headquarters would have no impact on our everyday banking services used by our customers in Scotland.
Juncker gives key EU economy jobs to UK and France The UK will oversee financial services in the new 28-strong European Commission - a surprise move that delighted the UK’s PM David Cameron. The job goes to Jonathan Hill, former leader of the House of Lords. France also got a powerful post - ex-Finance Minister Pierre Moscovici, a socialist, will run EU economic policy. There has been intense national rivalry over the top jobs. There are seven vice-presidents for key areas such as growth, better regulation and energy. Three of the seven powerful new posts have gone to women. Commission President JeanClaude Juncker announced the details, saying the new team was “geared to give Europe its new start”. The team includes five former prime ministers, four deputy prime ministers and seven returning commissioners, appointed for a new five-year term. The Commission is seen as the most powerful EU institution, as it drafts EU laws, ensures compliance
France’s Pierre Moscovici will also run EU taxation and customs affairs.
with EU treaties and negotiates far-reaching trade deals with international partners. It is the target of much hostility from Eurosceptics, who accuse Brussels of wasting taxpayers’ money and creating too many regulations, handicapping businesses. EU officials say that having a detailed common rulebook, enforceable EU-wide, helps the single market by reducing national
barriers. On the appointment of Lord Hill, Mr Cameron said during a trip to Edinburgh “I think that is a great piece of news because 40% of Europe’s financial services industry is in the United Kingdom, a lot of it here in Scotland. “And I think it would be great for the United Kingdom to have someone right at the heart of the European Commission, the European Union, making sure that financial services industries... can go from strength to strength.” The City of London dominates financial services in the EU, despite the UK being outside the euro. The appointment of Lord Hill is likely to please the City, as the UK pushes for far-reaching reforms in Brussels. Lord Hill said “there is much work to do... to ensure we have stable and well-regulated financial markets”. His job could help anchor the UK in the EU ahead of a UK in/out referendum on membership, which Mr Cameron says will take place in 2017 if the Conservatives are reelected. (BBC)
Last year, a group of drivers staged a similar protest and got their jobs back after weeks nailed to crosses.
Paraguayan bus drivers in crucifixion protest THREE Paraguayan bus drivers have had their hands nailed to a cross in a protest at being sacked. One of the men also sewed his mouth shut with wire to demand his job back. The men lost their jobs after the companies they worked for cut their routes. They want the government to help out by reassigning their routes to other companies. Last year, a group of drivers staged a similar protest and got their jobs back
after weeks nailed to crosses. The men involved in the latest protest work as long-distance drivers between Paraguay’s biggest cities - Asuncion, Ciudad del Este, Encarnacion and Concepcion. Driver Elvio Cristaldo submitted to crucifixion nine days ago. “I’m bearing up, but it’s painful,” he said. He has since been joined by two of his colleagues - Eligio Martinez and Clemente Lovera.
September 13 - 19, 2014
World News
U.S. may have identified masked man in James Foley execution video U.S. law enforcement officials believe they may have identified the masked man seen in the ISIS video of the killing of American journalist James Foley, two U.S. officials told CNN. “They have a pretty good idea of who it may be,” a U.S. official said. But the official cautioned that “it’s not 100% yet.” Neither official, who spoke to CNN on the condition of anonymity, was willing to identify the suspect, citing the ongoing investigation. The official said, “We’ve been using all means to identify the person.” That includes voice analysis and analyzing metadata from the video as well as other methods, according to the second U.S. official. The official declined to elaborate on what those other methods were. In late August, British Ambassador Peter Westmacott said his country was close to identifying the ISIS militant. Westmacott didn’t elaborate about the identity in the August 26 interview, which aired on CNN’s “State of the Union” with Candy Crowley. “We’re putting a great deal into the search,” Westmacott said at the time, referring to the use of sophisticated technology to analyze the man’s voice. The subject is believed tied to a group of extremists based in London, the officials said. FBI agents have been working with British authorities to nail down who the subject is, a priority for both governments. The same U.S. official said the United Kingdom has investigative interest because the masked man
The US might have a “pretty good” idea of who the killer in the video is.”
is believed to be a British citizen who traveled overseas to engage in conflict. The United States has investigative interest because he killed an American. Authorities are still trying to determine the identity of the militant speaking in the video of American journalist Steven Sotloff and determine if it is the same person in the Foley video, according to one of the officials. The source said “it’s too premature” to know with any certainty just one week since the video of Sotloff’s death was published. The source said British and American authorities would work together to find the masked man, who is believed to be in Syria. “This person is in an environment that’s highly dangerous. He could meet his demise on the battlefield,” the official said, though the sources did not rule out bringing the suspect back for trial in British or American court.
Human rights group accuses Israel of war crimes in Gaza
A LEADING international rights group on Thursday alleged that Israel committed war crimes during this summer’s Gaza war, saying it reached that conclusion after investigating three attacks on or near United Nations-run schools housing displaced Palestinians. Human Rights Watch said it investigated the strikes at the schools in three separate locations in the warbattered Gaza Strip, attacks in which at least 45 people were killed. According to its investigation, based on field research and interviews with witnesses, the New York-based group said no military targets were apparent in the area of the schools and that some of the attacks were indiscriminate. “The Israeli military carried out attacks on or near three well-marked schools where it knew hundreds of people were taking shelter, killing and wounding scores of civilians,”
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Fred Abrahams, special adviser at Human Rights Watch, said in a statement. “Israel has offered no convincing explanation for these attacks on schools where people had gone for protection and the resulting carnage.” Israel argues that the heavy civilian death toll during the 50day summer war was Hamas’ fault, accusing the Islamic militant group of launching rockets — and drawing retaliation — from school yards, residential areas and mosques. On Wednesday, the Israeli military announced it had launched its own probe into cases involving Palestinian civilian casualties during the war, including the shelling of a U.N school. The announcement was apparently meant to send a signal that Israel can police itself as it faces the specter of international war crimes probes. (NYdailynews)
Father believed to have killed his five young children TIMOTHY Jones Jr. allegedly went on a three-state, 700-mile journey that began in South Carolina with the bodies of his five young children wrapped in a garbage bags in the back of his SUV, authorities said Wednesday. Jones, a 32-year-old computer tech and University of Mississippi graduate, had told neighbours last week that he was moving his children from their home near Lexington to another state. The father of five was being held Wednesday in a Mississippi jail in connection with the deaths of his children, ages 1 to 8, whose bodies were dumped in Alabama. It’s still unclear how or why Jones allegedly killed his children, but acting Sheriff Lewis McCarty of Lexington County told reporters that Jones drove for several days with their decomposing bodies in the back of his SUV. It is believed he killed the children at the same time, and that the crime happened in Lexington County, McCarty said. “I don’t understand why he did it but yes these children were in the car, deceased, in garbage bags for some period of time,” McCarty said. When Jones was picked up Saturday at a police checkpoint in Mississippi, he seemed “very strange, maybe somewhat disoriented, a little bit on the violent side,” McCarty
Law enforcement officials believe that Jones drove for several days with their decomposing bodies in the back of his SUV.
said. In the car, police later found “cleaning material, they saw blood, they saw children’s clothing but no children.” McCarty said Jones, who was in possession of synthetic marijuana and a drug called “bath salts,” faces five counts of murder when he’s returned to South Carolina. The sheriff said Jones led investigators in Alabama to the trash-bag-wrapped remains believed to be those of his children. The remains have been returned to South Carolina, where autopsies will be performed.
“I’m a father and I’m a grandfather and in all of my years of law enforcement I have never seen a case like this,” McCarty said. “We all see things in our careers that have an impact. This case has impacted every person ... who had anything at all to do with it.” Child welfare authorities said they had received an abuse complaint involving at least one of the children on August 7 but interviews with Jones, the children and neighbors determined there was no imminent danger, said Jackie Swindler, a representative of the South Carolina Department of Social Services. “DSS did not see any visible signs of abuse,” he said, adding that the agency planned to follow up within 45 days. “At the time, there was nothing to alarm them.” Authorities said Jones picked up the children at school and daycare on August 28. According to an affidavit for the child endangerment charges against him, he admitted that he forced the five children out of his car that day near a Wal-Mart store in Lexington County. Parts of the affidavit are blacked out. The children’s mother, who shared custody of the children with her exhusband, reported them missing on September 3 after not being able to contact Jones. He was supposed to bring the children to stay with her the day before. (CNN)
Relief efforts in India and Pakistan hampered by destroyed infrastructure A HUGE relief operation is continuing across northern India and into Pakistan amid devastating floods that have killed hundreds of people and left tens of thousands more stranded. Authorities in Pakistan, anticipating further rainfall and the passage of floodwater to more populous areas, have warned that the worst is yet to come. The death toll is more than 400. Pakistan reported 257 killed, and India has reported at least 150. Hundreds more in each country have been injured. The count is expected to rise as rescuers regain access to areas cut off by floodwater. The capital of Indian-administered Kashmir, Srinagar, was also deluged, with residents perched on rooftops and other high ground awaiting rescue. Many buildings in the old part of the city have collapsed, local media report. Key infrastructure, such as bridges and roads, has been destroyed, hampering the army’s relief efforts. Indian soldiers in the heavily flooded area rushed to erect
The death toll from the flood has reached over 400. Pakistan reported 257 killed, and India has reported at least 150.
temporary crossings in order to reach people cut off by rapidly rising waters. The focus of the Indian relief effort will remain on Srinagar and areas of south Kashmir because of the number of people still stranded without food and water, Lt. Gen. D. S. Hooda, chief of the Indian Army’s Northern Command, said at a news conference.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the region at the weekend and immediately declared it a “national-level disaster.” He said everything would be done to provide aid and restore bridges and communication links washed away by the incessant rains. Modi, who was elected this year, also offered to help Pakistanis affected by the huge floods. (CNN)
30
Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate
Brama Kumaris
Raja Yoga
Classifieds
Meditation Centre Turks and Caicos Islands
Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101
www.bkwsu.com Email: bkpadma@bkwsutci.com
FOR SALE
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
September 13 - 19, 2014
946-4664 Fax: 946-4661
Email: tcnews@tciway.tc
Website: tcweeklynews.com
FLOWER GIRL
Is looking for a Part-time
delivery driver With own transportation who is interested in making extra cash.
Contact: 231-3788
Construction scaffold and roof tiles for sale CONTACT: 431-1591 OR 231-3788
September 13 - 19, 2014
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
CLASSIFIEDS 31
PRICED FOR Amazing Value! QUICK SALE Lot for Sale
Beautiful hillside, water front lot in Paw Paw Joe, North Caicos South
$50,000
(or nearest offer) Also additional seven acres plus in Kerr Mount (inland) contact Veronica at 1-242-327-8011 or 1-649-232-3508, (242) 676-3592
In Gated/Planned Community in Long Bay. Flamingo Crossing lot comes with full set of House Plans, all underground utilities, etc.
$49,999 o.b.o. Call 231-3788
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! The largest readership in the Turks & Caicos
PRICE SLASHED
PRICE SLASHED $175,000 FOR QUICK SALE
$180,000 CASH! House and ½ Acre land Richmond Hill 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Fully furnished
Call: 231-3788
32 CLASSIFIEDS
A G CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a
Masseuse REQUIRED FOR RESORT PROPERTY
Stain Remover To work 5 days per week salary $6.50 per hour.
10326
contact: 346-3907
September 13 - 19, 2014
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
• Must have certificate/ diploma in Massage Therapy • Must be willing to work evenings and weekends • Must be honest, hardworking and reliable • Ability to read, write and communicate in English • Salary $7.00 per hour
Email to: alliedmanagement@ usa.net or 946-5866
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
ALPHA OMEGA
Allied Management Services
Is looking for a
Is seeking a qualified
Technician
sales person To work 5 days
To provide technical support within the properties it manages interested person can email resumes to: alliedmanagement@ usa.net
per week salary $5.50 per hour contact: 344-6661
10337
10336
LISSETTE PARKER
WANTED
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
Is looking for a
Blue Parrot is looking for a
domestic worker
The successful applicant will have to work from Monday to Friday and some weekends and holidays when called upon. Salary is $5.00 per hour.
2) KITEBOARDING INSTRUCTORS
PASA or IKO Kite boarding Instructor(s) required to provide kite instruction, lead kite board excursions, and conduct all required kite equipment maintenance. Base salary of approximately $1800 per month, 6-days per week for a minimum of 6hrs per day. Only experienced and qualified instructors need apply. Send resumes to info@ bigblueunlimited.com The deadline for applications is 30th Sept 2014. Positions start in November 2014.
3) MARINE BIOLOGISTS / ECO-TOUR GUIDES
Looking for persons with experience and qualifications in the field of Marine Biology to join Big Blue’s team of eco-tour guides and dive instructors. Applicants must have experience in tropical waters and be able to lead educational kayak, paddleboard, snorkel and sightseeing eco-adventures. Applicants must have a first aid and CPR certificate and have the personality for sales, public relations and education. Applicants with boat driving experience, and STCW’95/TCI boat captain’s license preferred and will enjoy a better salary. Starting salary of approximately $1800 per month. Please drop resume and cover letter to Big Blue at the Leeward Marina between the hours of 8am to 5pm or e-mail to info@bigblueunlimited.com You will be contacted for an interview if required and the deadline for applications is 31st October 2014. Positions start in late 2014 or early 2015.
contact: 344-1504
Engineering AutoCAD Technician The successful applicant must have the following: • Associate degree in construction (with Structures & Building subjects) • AutoCAD Training certificate, (test may be requested). • 10 (ten) years’ experience in the construction industry. • Min 5 years TCI experience in structural engineering field. • Experience of Engineering & Construction throughout the Caribbean. • Strong detailing skills are essential.
Knowledge of reinforced concrete, composite construction, use of timber and steel also required. • Ability to read & Interpret MEP Drawings. • Computer skills (MS office excel & word, photo editing, etc), and General IT awareness, (test may be requested). • All applicants must be capable of working unsupervised to achieve target deadlines. • English Skills (Written & speaking) are essential. Candidates are required to directly liaise with clients, design teams & Contractors.
Contact information: please send resume via e-mail: info@bowdens.tc, include mailing address, e-mail address and phone number. Please include references with contact information & details of relationship. Deadline for applications is 5th Aug, 2014. Only Applicants with all minimum requirements will be interviewed. 10314
BARBARA ADAMS IS LOOKING FOR
FLOWER GIRL
Wanted urgently
Floral Designer
4) SALES PERSON
10334
LABOuRER SALARY: $5.00 / HOUR
CONTACT: 244 8820
10344
Looking for a sales person to work in a thriving Tourism Adventure Company. The applicant must have a minimum of 3-years of experience with sales & reservations in the tourism industry and have superior PR, computer, and organizational skills. Applicants that are able to speak and write French will be considered first. All applicants must be presentable, articulate, and be able to work long and flexible hours under pressure. Weekends mandatory. Starting salary of $1500 per month plus sales commissions. Please drop resume and cover letter to Big Blue at the Leeward Marina between the hours of 8am to 5pm or e-mail to info@bigblueunlimited.com. You will be contacted for an interview if required and the deadline for applications is 31st October 2014. Positions start in late 2014 or early 2015.
10348
Resume can be fax to 946 4564
To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.
10341
1) DIVE INSTRUCTORS
Looking for SCUBA Diving instructors with experience in the Turks and Caicos Islands dive industry to conduct dive courses, lead dives and snorkel trips, and assist on other eco-adventure activities at Big Blue. Applicants must be a current PADI dive instructors and have the skills and personality for sales, reservations, & public relations. Starting salary of approximately $1800 per month. Please drop resume and cover letter to Big Blue at the Leeward Marina between the hours of 8am to 5pm or e-mail to info@bigblueunlimited.com. You will be contacted for an interview if required and the deadline for applications is 30th Sept 2014. Positions start in November 2014.
Babysitter
Must have thorough knowledge in the floral business with 3-5 years experience.
Call: 231-3788
10327
Salary $5.50 per hour contact: 241-5922
Is looking for a
Is looking for a
IS LOOKING FOR
REQUIRED FOR A BUSY DIVE SHOP
Nail
Missionary To work 7 days
Technician
contact: 343-4618
contact: 345-8282
per week salary negotiable.
EXPERIENCE SCUBA INSTRUCTOR
to work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.
COCO BISTRO RESTAURANT
Must be willing to work 6 days per week including weekends and public holidays Salary based on experience and qualifications
Is looking for a live-In
Caretaker LABOURER To work 6 days
Please contact: 946-5029 10331
contact: 342-1465
CAICOS AUTO WORLD
DEE’S HAIR SALON
Is looking for 2
in Grace Bay is looking for a
SALARY: $5.00 / HOUR
per week salary $5.50 per hour.
CONTACT: 231-2307
10345
Air Condition Helper
DBELLE BEAUTY SALON
10328
Seeks to employ an
CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY
10335
C & S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
CLASSIFIEDS 33 DR. ANNIEST HAMILTON GARNET JOLLY
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
10339
September 13 - 19, 2014
LUC ST. JEAN SHOP
Is looking for a
Is looking for a
COOK
10330
In Grace Bay is looking for a
Head Chef
including nights and holidays • Be a team leader and work well under pressure • This is a hands on job • $40,000/annum Applicants must be able to understand and speak English, physically fit and hard working
All resumes/ Cv’s , letters of reference along with a clean police record must be forwarded to fax: 649-946-5368 Belongers Only need apply Please reply by September 15th, 2014 10329
PM INDUSTRIAL GAS LTD. TCI Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for the following positions:
PLANT WORKER & DELIVERY DRIVER Requirements include: • Relevant experience • A clean police record • Group 3 driver’s license • Successful drug screen • Excellent health and mobility allowing for the handling and delivery of heavy cylinders at least a high school diploma • Customer service skills • Industrial or auto mechanical repair
contact: 344-8753
per week salary $6.00 per hour.
contact: 241-4070
CAICOS CAFÉ LTD.
COCO BISTRO RESTAURANT
• Must have the following qualifications: • At least 10 years experience in an upmarket restaurant • Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Publisher • Culinary Degree • Willing to work on the line daily and do any job required • Must be able to work 6 days per week
per week salary $6.00 per hour.
and maintenance experience or knowledge • Experience with retail and front-line sales • Working experience and proficiency in QuickBooks • Inventory control would also be an asset and at least 1 year experience in proper handling of hazardous materials Starting wage $5.00 per hour
Applications comprising of a letter, resume, reference, police record, drug test, etc. should be sent to: PMI GAS LTD, P.O. Box 1026, Providenciales, South Dock Road, 649-242-9094
10323
SOMMELIER/ WINE SPECIALIST
• Must have a Sommelier Certification who specialize in all aspects of wine services and food pairing, coordinates all service beverage of the restaurant and work with the management team and chef regarding food and beverage cost. • Must be able to work weekends, nights and holidays • Must be able to work 6 days per week and have at least 8 years experience • Must be able to speak and write English • Must be physically fit, dependable and hardworking
per week salary $5.00 per hour.
contact: 241-7995
10350
All resumes/Cv’s letters of reference along with a clean police record must be forwarded to fax: 649-946-5368
Hairdresser labourer labourers To work 6 days To work 6 days To work 6 days 10347
and weekends including holidays • Be a team leader and work well under pressure • This is a hands on job • $30,000/ annum Applicants must be able to understand and speak English, physically fit, dependable and hardworking
10358
• Must have the following qualifications: • At least 6 years experience in an up market restaurant • Proficient with Microsoft Excel and Publisher • Culinary Degree • Willing to work on the line daily and do any job required • Must be able to work 6 days/nights
Is looking for
MAITRE D’HOTEL
• Must be able to work weekends, nights and holidays • Must be able to work 6 days per week and have at least 6 years experience • Must be physically fit, dependable and hardworking • Must be able to train the wait staff • Must be able to organized restaurant staff and service • Must be able to prepare working schedule, coordinate all services of the restaurant and work with head chef for menu planning and a good knowledge of wine and food pairing Salaries are paid on experience and quality of work
All resumes CV’s letters of reference along with a clean police record must be delivered at Caicos Café, Grace Bay 10340
WANTED
Trainee Warehouse Assistant
Bonded warehouse facility handling secured, fragile as well as hazardous materials is seeking a Trainee Warehouse Assistant. If you are a male who is: • Between the ages of 18 – 24 years old • Energetic with a passion for new experiences • Able to work 6 – 8 hours daily in a non-climate controlled environment • Physically able to climb, bend, twist or reach in order to access cargo • Willing to learn the operation of several machines used in transporting cargo indoors and outdoors • Knowledgeable in Microsoft Office • Excellent in writing & speaking the English Language • Able to compute basic mathematical problems
We invite you to send us your resume including two character references by October 3, 2014 Email: cargoexp@tciway.tc or fax to 649-941-5525
10357
34 CLASSIFIEDS
Island Getaways
GRANTS PETROLEUM
BLUE HORIZONS RESORT MIDDLE CAICOS
IMMACULA C. DOR
Is looking for a
Property Management Account Executive Qualifications and experience: - At least 4 years of experience in Property Management and/or hotel management. - Advanced computer skills. In particular: Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher and PowerPoint. - Knowledgeable in Accounting with an advanced level in QuickBooks Accounting software. - Fluent in English, Spanish and Italian, as company operates worldwide. - Proactive and knowledgeable in creative sales maximization. - Possess own car and have a valid driver’s license. - Possess own computer.
Some of the responsibilities include:
- To coordinate and execute all operational and related matters of Property Management including building, maintenance and tenancy management among others. - Liaise with contractors, consultants and authorities in relevant matters. - Monitoring servicing, rectification and installation works carried by contractors or in-house maintenance. - Providing professional assistance to tenants and consulting services to property owners. - Answering all emails and inquiries. Creating and updating reservation calendars, operational schedules, and other related duties.
10354
Domestic Worker Pump Attendant is looking for a
To work 6 days per week salary $7.00 per hour Send resumes to: reservations@ bhresorts.com or contact: 649-946-6141
10363
GOLDSMITH Is looking for the following persons
HOT SPOT CAFÉ/ LIQUORS Is looking for a
Salespersons Domestic Worker General Worker To work 6 days per week.
contact: 332-4101
10345
Is currently looking for a
This position requires to be on call 24/7, work evenings, public holidays and all weekends. Salary: commission based only.
September 13 - 19, 2014
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Public Statement
sales clerk To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.
contact: 332-5262
Must work weekends Salary $5.25 per hour Please respond to P.O. Box 477, Providenciales 10324
Is looking for a
live-In Nanny
To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour. contact: 946-8308 10340
GRAND TURK LIQUORS Is seeking to hire a
Sales Clerk To work 5 ½ days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour. Hours: 8:30am6:30pm . Some extra hours maybe required
Contact: Joey Missick on 946-2262
10364
10355
Position: Paymaster
Re: Grand Palm Ltd
Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands, BWI – 5th September 2014 – As an update to the public statement issued on August 28th, 2012 in relation to Grand Palm Ltd, The Turks and Caicos Islands Financial Services Commission (TCIFSC) considers it necessary to issue this public warning in order to protect the public interest, and the interests of any of the customers and creditors of Grand Palm Ltd, and further to make the general public aware that Grand Palm Ltd. is not a licensee of the TCIFSC.
Reporting To: Assistant Director of Finance Function:
;; Oversees day to day payroll processing and liaising with all departments and Human Resources. ;; Processes the monthly Travel Agent commission payments.
The details are:
Must have a minimum of 3 years experience in a similar role. A 1st degree in Accounting would be asset.
1. Grand Palm Ltd. was issued an Investment Dealers License pursuant to the Investment Dealers (Licensing) Ordinance. 2. Grand Palm Ltd. attempted to surrender its license in March 2012. 3. The TCIFSC was unable to accept the surrender of Grand Palm Ltd.’s license due to Grand Palm Ltd.’s failure to comply with Section 9 of the Investment Dealers (Licensing) Ordinance which establishes the procedure for surrender of a license under the Ordinance. 4. The TCIFSC has been attempting to have Grand Palm Ltd. comply with the said Section 9 of the Investment Dealers (Licensing) Ordinance to ensure the lawful surrender of the license. 5. Grand Palm Ltd has failed to lawfully comply with the legislative procedure for surrendering its license. 6. The TCIFSC considered all options open to it to either, ensure Grand Palm Ltd.’s compliance with the Section 9 procedure or take other necessary action, legal or otherwise. 7. Grand Palm Ltd was struck from the Register of Companies, and on August 31, 2014 its license under the Investment Dealers (Licensing) Ordinance was revoked pursuant to Section 34(1) (b) of the Financial Services Commission Ordinance.
1. Maintains the payroll system of the hotel and time clocks with proper documentation and filing including adherence to standard operating procedures. 2. Ensures that all invoices, bills, credit notes and other accounting information are correctly updated to the accounting and PMS systems for travel agent commissions. Keep commission payments current and monitors open balances. 3. Issues the weekly payroll forecasts and updates with actual costs. Informs management with any problems/issues. 4. Ensures that the payroll is prepared accurately and timely. Prepares all payroll tax returns and reconciling all differences. 5. Other such duties as determined by the company from time to time. 6. Interacts in courteous and professional manner with all guests, staff and community member. Qualified Belongers need only apply. Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience
The TCIFSC further advises that appropriate due diligence should be conducted before engaging in any business arrangement with Grand Palm Ltd. and/or any of its Principals. This Public Warning was issued pursuant to Section 39 of the Financial Services Commission Ordinance. 10349
Interested persons can contact our Human Resources Department no later than September 19th @ (649) 946-5050 Ext. 1050 Email: humanresources@gracebayclub.com Fax: (649) 946-5758 P.O. Box 128 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, British West Indies
10359
September 13 - 19, 2014
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
CLASSIFIEDS 35
HERZOG CARIBBEAN LTD. is seeking to employ a
ASPHALT LUTE OPERATOR Responsibilities • Help with basic job layout • Ensure uniform thickness of mat in accordance with job specs • Operate other construction equipment • Assist Forman in various construction activities Qualifications • Minimum 3 years asphalt crew experience • Must have own vehicle to travel to work
SALES!!!
Skills • Able to recognize drainage issues • Good physical strength • Good physical stamina • Good manual dexterity • Great attention to detail • Works well as part of a team
Due to change of season we are selling lots of items at discount prices. Towels, curtains, bathroom sets, bathroom coordinates, napkins, cups and glasses, canisters, mixing bowls, serving trays and much more for your house.
Compensation • Based on Experience Position Type • Full-Time
Please submit applications to main office at C 5-6 Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales TCI.10334
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
General Manager Position
the largest readership in the turks & caicos
The Blue Horizon Resort Ltd, Middle Caicos, is looking for an energetic manager, or managing couple, to run this small boutique hotel, consisting of 5 studio cottages, 3 villas, and onsite restaurant. The role is ideally suited for someone with a varied work experience within the hospitality and property management industries, who is looking to live and work in a remote Caribbean location.
WINE CELLAR
The candidate must:
Is looking for:
A MERCHANDIZING & SALES CONSULTANT
• To consult sales team on promoting products carried at our wholesale and retail operation • To consult team on visiting our wholesale customers in the trade on a regular basis in an effort to increase sales and awareness of our products • Consult sales team in helping to grow retail sales by doing in store promotions and assisting customers • Assist in streamlining inventory in an effort to maximize inventory turnover ratio while maintaining adequate products to service the trade efficiently • Consult in the coordination and assist in devising and implementing various sales and marketing strategies for the Wine Cellar retail and wholesale division along with similar programs for all other affiliated businesses within the group • Consult in liaising with suppliers/vendors to determine, learn and implement various product campaigns within our markets • Consult sales team in the provision of regular Swot Analysis reports to management on the progress or detriments of each account, in order to determine appropriate strategies for account success • Consult where necessary the sales and marketing team of existing and future business ventures of the group • Must have 5 or more years experience in the beverage industry Salary based on commission Application must be submitted via email or fax to:
The Operations Manager @ discount@ tciway.tc or fax: 649-946-4871
10346
• • • • • •
Have prior experience in Property Management Have at least 5 years’ experience as a manager within the resort industry Have experience working within the food and beverage industry Be interested in working specifically in a boutique hotel environment Have a diverse background of “hands-on” skills in all areas of hotel operation Have experience using Quick Books Pro, Excel, POS Systems, Reservation Systems • Have marketing experience and be familiar with online social media including Facebook, Twitter & Instagram • Be committed to the role and all that it entails. This is a full time role that requires dedication 24/7 The General Manager would be responsible for the following: • Overseeing all Restaurant and Resort Operations • Daily Accounting using Quick Books Pro • Monthly Report Analysis: Profit and Loss, Balance, Year to Date • Regular conference calls with owner do discuss month end reports and resort operations • Bank Reconciliation • Daily management presence at the restaurant • Print and analyze End of Day Reports from POS System at Restaurant • Regular Inventory Recording and Analysis for Restaurant • Purchasing Stock for Restaurant • Paying bills and liabilities monthly and annually, as they are due • Handle all paperwork for Insurance, Licensing and Registration for the businesses, property and vehicles • Handle all Work Permit applications & renewals • Management of all staff of the resort and restaurant (10 staff), including regular staff evaluations & recruitment • Bi-Monthly Payroll • Efficient Staff Scheduling • Hands on Management of Maintenance & Housekeeping • Handle all Resort Reservations • Handle all Local and Online Marketing • Handle all “Front Office” responsibilities including Check-ins, Check-outs, Concierge Services, Room Checks. Salary based on experience
Send resumes to: reservations@bhresorts.com or contact: 649-946-6141 10361
September 13 - 19, 2014
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
TIKI HUT
T C INDUSTRIAL SERICES LTD.
LANDSCAPING DESIGNER
Is looking for a
is looking for a
Is looking for a
Tire Repairman Must work weekends Salary $5.00 per hour Send resume to P.O. Box 477, Providenciales
Bar Supervisor/
Contact: 231-1205
Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $6.50 per hour. Contact: 941-5341
Must be skilled in Wallpaper, Venetian Plaster, Inter/Exterior stucco finish, Color mixing. Must be willing to work 6 days per week Salary $600.00 per week
10356
CONTACT: 432-6633
10347
TO WORK 5 DAYS / WEEK. SALARY: $5.00 / HOUR
10325
1 LABOURER
Paint Specialist
Private Chef
10352
10355
The Windsong Resort Is seeking suitable qualified applicants to fill the following positions:
• Front Desk Agent • Housekeeper • Houseman • Cook
A luxury villa is currently seeking a private chef to cater for high-end guests. The successful applicant should have the following skills: • 7 years experience as a Villa chef or running a commercial kitchen for a caterer or highend fine dining restaurant or hotel • Knowledge of commercial level food prep safety and hygiene • Menu planning and costing, including preparation and printing • Ability to manage other chefs and servers • Ability to match and select wines to complement menu • Fluent in English (written and verbal) • Able to communicate in Spanish/Creole with other staff • Able to cater weddings, cocktail parties and special events • Excellent variety of menus of worldwide cuisine including desserts, pastries, hors d’oeuvres and chocolates
• Pool and Beach Attendant • Waiter
Requirements: • Minimum of 3 years in the specialized field • Excellent written and communication skills • Must be willing to work holidays and weekends • Only qualified applicant will be called in for an interview
Additionally, the position requires: • Working long hours (breakfast, lunch & dinner), public holidays, weekends and back to back rentals • Shopping for food and beverage supplies • Maintaining an inventory and billing clients for supplies and services • Clean driving and police record, own insured car • Ability to maintain complete confidentiality about guest identity
Please drop your resume at the Windsong resort
Sunny Reef Ltd
Business Coordinator
Salary $3,000 per month Only Belonger need apply. Application should be submitted by September 20th, 2014 either by email to: markpankhurst@hotmail.com or by post to Stargazer Villa, P.O. Box 196, Providenciales. 10333
Please include a current resume and a few sample menus of dinner entrees of items you regularly prepare. Also include a contact email address and phone number.
Manager
Applications must possess a minimum of seven (7) years’ experience, with knowledge on plants/chemicals and fertilizer sprays Free hand drawing CAD, Tropical & desert landscaping knowledge Commercial/resort landscape design management. Commercial/residential irrigation & drainage design & implementation, Commercial/residential native ecological design and conservation Applicants is expected to work outdoors, holidays and weekends with flexible schedule Belongers given preference Salary commensurate with experience Please drop all applications to: Trail Enterprises Ltd, Unit J101, The Regent Village, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands or email to: info@trail.tc.
10361
36 CLASSIFIEDS R & B TIRES K. KIDIK & AUTO ZONE IS LOOKING FOR
NOTICE Regulation 7 of the Physical Planning (Development Permission) Regulations, 1990
3-5 years experience in a upscale restaurant, must be hardworking, dependable with a passion for hospitality. Ability to demonstrate planning, organizational and implementation skills for the successful completion of goals by a specific due date. Qualifications in hospitality and restaurant is necessary.
Salaries are based on experience and qualifications. ALL qualified applicants are kindly requested to respond to the following address below: Sunny Reef Ltd, PO. Box 811, Providenciales. 10342
Tiki Hut Bar and Grill
Chef looking for a
An application registered PR: 11984 for the development of a building with SIX OFFICES/ STORAGE (6) SPACES have been submitted to the Department of Planning for consideration of Detail Development Permission by BEEN MEP CO. LTD. The location is PARCEL 60716/75, which is in the Cheshire Hall Area of Providenciales.
;;Belonger only need apply. ;;Seeking Well Trained Chef’s with a remarkable attitude and at least 7 years experience in restaurant and kitchen management. ;;Applicants must be organized, skilled in technique, knowledgeable in food costs and running a budget. Must have certification in food safety and sanitation, as well as a University Degree. ;;Someone with a creative mind and experience in casual Caribbean and American dining a plus. ;;Able to work weekends, nights and holidays during high season. ;;Fluent in English with a secondary language of Spanish or French. ;;Salary to commensurate with Experience.
Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Downtown, Town Center Mall, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of publication of this notice. Respectfully 10351
10332
September 13 - 19, 2014
MY DEE’S NORTH CAICOS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
ISLAND SOLUTIONS
CLASSIFIEDS 37
JUDY MINI BAR IS LOOKING FOR
Is looking for 2
1 CASHIER – $6.00 PER HOUR
Labourer 1 BARTENDER Salary: $5.00 / hour
WILFREY & TONY
Caribbean Place Owners Association
Is looking following positions:
Gardener The position is for a
Complete Company
Labourer 231-0337 Marie
Labourer 345-5305
Must be willing to work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour 10356
RELIABLE CLEANING SERVICES
Nail Technician Hairdresser Salary $5.00 per hour. Contact: 231-0882
Is looking for the following positions:
2 Female Cleaners 1 Male Cleaner
Is looking for a
Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.
contact: 341-8806
labourer To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.
contact: 244-7033
The Regent Palms
Seeks Food & Beverage Manager Requirements: • Minimum of 6 years management experience in food and beverage, including dining • Post-secondary degree or equivalent by experience • Strong knowledge of a variety of cuisines and wines/beverages • Strong understanding and proven track record of operational controls and sales • Excellent organizational skills • Computer skills( Word, Excel, PowerPoint) plus knowledge of POS system • Must be able to works shifts and days
Duties include: • Supervises, trains, and coaches staff to meet Regent standard of luxury food and ensure Regent Experience for guests. • Participates in development of business strategies for food and beverage outlets aligned with business objectives for maiming revenue and guest satisfaction. • Participates in development of budgets and monitors status regularly to ensure achievement of financial targets. • Works closely with culinary team to create and implement menus consistent with guests’ expectations and Regent standards of luxury and quality. • Starting salary $20,000 per annum not including service charge.
All applications can be faxed to 941-4034, Deadline for applications is September 18th 2014.
Delivery Coordinator (Based in Turks and Caicos)
The successful candidate will maintain on-going and effective delivery of day-today relationships with the external point of contact and LIME internal partners Main Accountabilities are:
• Proactively support activities to ensure that priorities in the MSO are aligned to business needs and ensure effective participation. • Monitor the day-day activities and deliverables within the LIME/Ericsson work stream. • Work with the Manager-MSO to translate the MSC service deliverables into operational input. • Build effective and efficient liaisons within the LIME/Ericsson work stream, e.g. team members, Ericsson counterparts and other internal stakeholders. • Maintain adherence to all established and agreed processes, SLAs and Working Level Agreements (WLAs); reporting all non-compliance to the appropriate person. • Provide timely follow-up with internal stakeholders when SLAs are at risk of being missed. • Work closely with the Manager-MSO to develop project schedules, process flows and timelines; delegating tasks to relevant individuals to meet deliverables. • Monitor and provide updates on the status of outstanding issues, process improvements. • Work closely with the Ericsson counterpart on service delivery topics and look to identify ways to improve processing and delivery of service across the work stream. • Track and monitor change progress; escalating issues to appropriate stakeholder Minimum Experience and Qualifications:
• BSc in Electrical Engineering or relevant Telecommunication discipline • Diplomas Management/Business Administration or related field • 5 to 7 years’ experience in the telecoms industry in a service delivery or operations capacity. • Project Management experience • Knowledge of commercial terms of trade • Understanding of dealer and company parts systems and procedures • Strong knowledge of recognised project management methodologies • Knowledge of JOS/SAP • Microsoft Office Suite • Strong technical skills/background
To explore this exciting career opportunity please send your application and resume no later than September 12, 2014 to recruit@lime.com or fax to: 1-876-920-9336 10342
The Food & Beverage Manager will oversee the daily operation of the restaurants on property.
Are you a high performing, result driven Professional? If so, we would like to speak with you to join our dynamic team in the capacity of:
Applications are invited from individuals with a solid background to assist in the planning and coordinating of delivery activities within Managed Services Operations (MSO) team.
TROPICANA UPHOLSTERY
10351
NATASHA CONSULTANCY
Acting on behalf of our clients:
10350
To work 5 days a week and the salary is $400.00 per week.
The contact number is 941-3082
CONTACT: 2416431
10348
Contact: 346-5064
– $7.00 PER HOUR
10365
10343
contact: 243-2344
Mason
Salary: $6.50 / hour
10353
salary $5.50 per hour must be able to do heavy lifting, must be able to keep surrounding clean.
Is looking for
10343
Male Labourers To work 6 days per week
September 13 - 19, 2014
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
C & J CONSULTANCY
Job description: This role is responsible for providing strategic planning, guidance and implementation of high impact digital projects across the organization. This person will align with corporate priorities and participate in setting a strategic plans for digital marketing and manage the implementation of digital assets (Web, GDS, Mobile, Tablet etc.) with a keen focus on B2C and an overview to B2B applications to ensure brand, digital & user consistency and excellence. Key Duties and Responsibilities: • Participates in planning, developing and executing all digital marketing programs and campaigns with the team; including online brand awareness advertising, email, search engine marketing (SEM), search engine optimization (SEO), social media, web, tablet and mobile experiences and ensure alignment across all disciplines. • Responsible for ensuring continued site refreshes including homepage, email, content and copy updates. Ensure all content, copy, policies, product within partner extranet sites is current and accurate. (i.e. Leading Hotels of The World, AMEX Fine Hotels & Resorts, Virtuoso, Signature, Ensemble, Tzell Travel Group etc.) • Conducts daily/weekly website quality control checks; coordinate solutions within team. • Maintains and updates Grace Bay Club, The Residences, Grace Bay Resorts & West Bay Club website and tracks performance monthly and generate detail reporting for management reviews. • Works collaboratively with PR agency on Digital PR plan and integration • Provides inputs/insights based on historical information, current trends & experiences to help evolve company’s digital footprint and make informed decisions based on data trends that drive digital efforts. • Connects analytics insights to real-time quick fixes and solutions to on-going campaigns and initiatives. • Coordinates direct to consumer digital marketing tactics including but not limited to email, paid search, SEO and online advertising to support seasonal campaigns. • Works with company’s senior leadership to define and develop action plans to increase direct business mix. • Continued training and education • Maintains and controls the master content calendar for all online initiatives, ensuring deadlines are met. • Integrates new projects with team for based on promotions, marketing and brand initiatives. • Participates in the full launch process of digital projects/campaigns including strategic planning, experience design, development and testing. • Works with sales teams on consumer marketing initiatives and product launches to ensure cross platform alignment. • Updates team with front-line knowledge and innovation of trends in the social media landscape applicable to company. • Frequent travel may be required, therefore a valid driver's license is required. • Oversee Co-Op Marketing Plans and Partner Brochure Content Experience Required: • Bachelor's degree in marketing or equivalent experience • 3+ year's in depth experience working with digital marketing initiatives preferred • Well versed in Google Analytics and deriving meaningful/valuable trends from mass data • In-depth knowledge of industry's leading strategies and methodologies • Prior experience with search engine tools and Sabre highly preferred • Previous experience with a large online travel company or search engine site preferred • Prior experience with a Content Management System is highly preferred • Prior experience with User Interface/User Experience and A/B testing is preferred Consults with: • COO & Principal / VP S&M • Group Director of Sales & Marketing • Group Director of Operations & General Manager • Marketing Team • Sales Team • Public Relations Team Location: New York, Miami or Turks and Caicos - package based on location Weekly Schedule and Compensation: Monday through Friday during normal business hours, nights and weekend and holidays may be required to meet project deadlines and to attend industry related trade shows and events Compensation: Salaried and exempt role; compensation commensurate with experience Benefits: 2 weeks paid vacation, 10 paid holidays, paid sick/personal time, monthly reimbursement for health insurance. Submit resume to: Ric Graham, Group Director of People Development GRACE BAY RESORTS ric.graham@gracebayresorts.com
10358
SEA FEATHERS LTD.
Working hours: 8 hours per day Wages: $5.50 per hour
Acting on behalf of our clients:
• Household cleaning, laundry and daily household upkeep • Must be able to prepare meals for large family • Must be fluent in Italian and Spanish • Flexible to work long hours, on holidays and weekends
Gold Straw Nail Center & Beauty Salon
Sales Person F.R.S. TIRE SHOP
Domestic Worker
Contact: 347-6642
10375
DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL MARKETING
DOMESTIC WORKER
Contact: Neon Holding Ltd.
Tel: 649-941-7923 During working hours
GARDENER NEEDED Must be hardworking and good with dogs salary $5.00 per hour.
Contact: 244-2644
10733
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! the largest readership in the turks & caicos
TURKS AND CAICOS AGGRESSOR II
Head Chef
REQUIREMENTS AS FOLLOW:
• Min of 3 years experience as head chef, at least one years experience onboard a boat • Be prepared to carry out other duties onboard as directed by the Captain • Computer Literate • STCW95 Complaint, current or within six months • Be prepared to live onboard & work long hours including weekends & holidays • Experienced in the Hospitality industry Belongers need only apply Starting salary $400.00 a week
Please send emails to tcaggressor@express.tc or call 941-7825
10366
38 CLASSIFIEDS
September 13 - 19, 2014
39
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Science & Technology
Blood group ‘link to memory loss’ THERE may be a link between a rare blood type and memory loss in later life, American research suggests. People with AB blood, found in 4% of the population, appear more likely to develop thinking and memory problems than those with other blood groups. The study, published in Neurology, builds on previous research showing blood type may influence heart risk. A charity said the best way to keep the brain healthy was a balanced diet, regular exercise and not smoking. A US team led by Dr Mary Cushman, of the University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, analysed data from about 30,000 US citizens aged 45 and above. It identified 495 participants who had developed thinking and memory problems, or cognitive impairment, during the three-year study. They were compared to 587 people with no cognitive
problems. People with AB blood type made up 6% of the group who developed cognitive impairment, which is higher than the 4% found in the general population. They were 82% more likely to have difficulties with dayto-day memory, language and attention, which can signal the onset of dementia. However, the study did not look at the risk of dementia. The study supported the idea that having a certain
blood group, such as O, may give a lower risk for cardiovascular disease, which in turn protected the brain, the researchers said. “Our study looks at blood type and risk of cognitive impairment, but several studies have shown that factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes increase the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia,” said Dr Cushman. “Blood type is also related to other vascular conditions
SENIOR COMMERCIAL & CONVEYANCING LAWYER Please send applications toEmail reception@savory-co. com or Fax 946 4848 10359
CARIBBEAN BUILDER Is looking for a
Ricardo Fulford Consultant Services on behalf of his clients: TCI Waste Disposal is seeking employment for the following:
1) Waste Collector 1) Labourer
labourer To work 6 days
per week salary $5.50 per hour. Contact: 244-0065 10371
JUDITH GUERRIER
Interested candidate may contact 431-7889 for further details regarding employment. Interested candidate must contact the number advertise for further details regarding employment. Ricardo Fulford Immigration and Labour Consultant President of Ricardo Fulford Consultant Services ricardofulford@gmail.com (649) 346-1125 10368
SID PRESCOTT ROBINSON IS LOOKING FOR
WARDS CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients: Vila Del Mar, J & W Construction is looking for the following persons:
Is seeking a
is needed to confirm these results.”
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 61113/57 Long Bay Hills, Providenciales.
Three story with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, dining room and laundry room on the main floor. Second level with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen and living room. Third level has one bedroom, one bathroom and a kitchen on approx. 0.49 acre. Registered Proprietor: Shunaven Selver
2. Parcel 60400/101 Chalksound, Providenciales.
Single storey with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, living /dining room and laundry room on approx. 0.63 acre. Registered Proprietor: Delthia Felicia Francene Russell
3. Parcel 60811/17 The Bight and Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales.
Single storey with two bedrooms, one bathroom, kitchen and living/dining room on approx. 0.28 acre. Registered Proprietor: Kirkley George Rigby
4. Parcel 60807/170 & 171 The Bight and Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales.
Single storey with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, kitchen, living/dining room and laundry room on approx. 0.26 acre. Registered Proprietor: Thoshena Terrell Adderley
5. Parcel 50500/255 Whitby Cove, North Caicos.
Unfinished single storey with four one-bedroom apartments with bathroom, kitchen and living/dining room on approx. 0.27 acre. Registered Proprietor: Paul Anthony Gardiner
6. Parcel 60003/34 North West and North Central, Providenciales.
Phase one of the Priton Homes: two bedrooms, one bathroom, laundry room, kitchen, living/dining area on 0.25 acre. Registered Proprietors: Leighton Cailo Green and Vanessa Pauline Green
7. Parcel 60807/172 & 173 The Bight and Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales.
Two storey apartment building, main level with two one- bedroom apartments with kitchen and living room and second level with one two-bedroom, two bathroom, kitchen and living room on approx. 1.00 acre. Registered Proprietors: Jacqueline Edna Brown and Latasha Makalia Delancy
Single storey with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, kitchen and living/dining room and two one- bedroom guesthouses with bathroom, kitchen and living/dining room on 0.65 acre. Registered Proprietor: Jacqueline Edna Brown
LABOURER SALARY:
$5.00 / HOUR
CONTACT: 231-2621
10346
10370
between vascular issues and brain health. More research
8. Parcel 60900/187 Leeward Going Through, Providenciales.
Human Hair Wefter Must have experience in hair wefting. Must be able to use machinery at a fast pace. Must meet industrial standards which is quality control and no shedding. Salary is $10.00 per hour Interested applicants can email resumes to: guerrier_j@hotmail.com
like stroke, so the findings highlight the connections
9. Parcel 51212/24 Bottle Creek Central, North Caicos.
Vacant lot on King’s Road, approx. 0.74 acre overlooking Bottle Creek. Registered Proprietor: Wilbert Ebenezer Handfield
Housekeeper Carpenter
Salary $5-$8 per hour.
Contact: 345-7512
10354
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 19th day of September 2014. A reserve price will be fixed on all parcels. A deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids.
40
September 13 - 19, 2014
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Science & Technology
Soy could speed up spread of breast cancer – study EXPERTS have cautioned that eating soy, in the form of tofu or milk, could speed up the rate at which breast cancer cells spread in women already diagnosed with the disease. The warning came after scientists at the Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre in New York studied 140 women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Between seven and 30 days before the women had surgery to remove their tumours, half of them were given soy protein powder containing genistein, while the other half received a placebo. The researchers compared tumour tissues from before and after the operation. In the women who had taken the soy supplement, changes were found in the expressions of certain genes that are known to promote cell growth. These findings suggested that soy protein could potentially accelerate the progression of the disease. In the words of the study, which was published in the September 4 edition of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute: “These data raise concern that soy may exert a stimulating effect on breast cancer in a sub set of women.” Participants in the study had recently had breast biopsies, were diagnosed with stage one or two breast cancer, and were scheduled to have a mastectomy or lumpectomy in two to three weeks. According to co-author of the study Jacqueline Bromberg: “Although the genes were being expressed,
Findings from a new study suggested that soy protein could potentially accelerate the progression of breast cancer.
it is not clear that this will translate into actual tumour growth. But the concern is that there may be the potential. “Only 20 percent of those patients who took the soy had really high levels of the genistein metabolite.”
Dr Bromberg said the reasons behind the disparity are unclear, adding that there is no way to predict who would have this reaction after consuming soy. She went on to explain that of the women with high
Demand for agricultural products drives ‘shock’ tree loss in tropical forests AROUND five football fields of tropical forest have been illegally cleared every minute between 2000 and 2012 according to a new report. The authors say that consumer demand in Europe and the US for beef, leather and timber is driving these losses. The vast majority of this illegal deforestation for commercial agriculture took place in Brazil and Indonesia. The authors say the practice
Degraded lands like these in Indonesia are often the result of illegal clearances.
is spreading rapidly in Asia and Africa. The research has been
Y.A.3.B. CONSULTANCY
ANGELA WILLIAMS
Domestic Worker
Nanny
Salary $5.50 per hour B’s Beauty Box
Nail Technician Salary $6.00 per hour
Salary $5.50 per hour Mark Lightbourne
Labourer
Salary $6.00 per hour
Contact: 344-4540
10369
Is looking for a
to work 6 days per week with the ability to care for a special need child salary $500.00 per month, 4 weeks vacation plus benefits. Contact: 232-1473
10374
Acting on behalf of our clients: Tripple S Rigby Boutique Construction Sales Clerk Salary $6.00 per hour Gardener Salary $5.50 per hour Esperanza Simmons Tile Layer Domestic Worker Salary $7.00 per hour Salary $5.50 per hour Danneirs Hall Israel A. Forbes
Cleaner
genistein levels, a few of them experienced changes in a specified set of genes that are known to affect breast cancer cell growth, death, or some aspect of breast cancer pathology. Women who consumed around 51.6 grams of soy, the equivalent of about four cups of soy milk a day, exhibited the changes. It was thought likely that those who eat soy regularly could “reasonably consume that amount” daily, particularly vegetarians and those who do not eat dairy products. The scientists cautioned that women living in Asian countries could be especially at risk, due to the high levels of soy and tofu in traditional diets. The research did not address the question of whether soy would have any effect on women who have not already been diagnosed with breast cancer. (Caribbean360)
carried out by Forest Trends, a US based, non-governmental organisation that includes environmentalists, industry and the financial sector. Their report focuses on the question of illegality. While the cutting down of tropical forests has been an issue of global concern for several decades, knowing what’s legal and illegal has been much more difficult to ascertain. This new study argues that in the first 12 years of this century, 49% of tropical deforestation was due to illegal conversion for commercial agriculture. The authors say consumer demand in the EU and elsewhere for agricultural commodities is the main driver for these clearances that have seen more than 200,000 sq km of forest laid bare.
The class of drugs known as benzodiazepines is mainly used to treat anxiety or insomnia.
Anxiety and sleeping pills ‘linked to dementia’ Long-term use of pills for anxiety and sleep problems may be linked to Alzheimer’s, research suggests. A study of older Canadian adults found that past benzodiazepine use for three months or more was linked to an increased risk (up to 51%) of dementia. NHS guidelines say the drugs should be used for eight to 12 weeks at most. The French-Canadian team says while the link is not definitive, it is another warning that treatments should not exceed three months. “Benzodiazepine use is associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease,” lead researcher, Sophie Billioti de Gage of the University of Bordeaux, France, and colleagues wrote in the BMJ. “Unwarranted long-term use of these drugs should be considered as a public health
concern.” The study involved about 2,000 cases of Alzheimer’s disease in adults aged over 66 living in Quebec. All had been prescribed benzodiazepines. They were compared with about 7,000 healthy people of the same age living in the same community. While an increased risk was found in those on benzodiazepines, the nature of the link was unclear. Dr Eric Karran, director of research at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “This study shows an apparent link between the use of benzodiazepines and Alzheimer’s disease although it’s hard to know the underlying reason behind the link. “One limitation of this study is that benzodiazepines treat symptoms such as anxiety and sleep disturbance, which may also be early indicators of Alzheimer’s disease.”
About 90% American Children eat too much Salt THE Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has come out with a new report, which shows that sodium level is too high in American kids. According to the report, children are consuming too much salt which could harm their future health. CDC report shows that about 90% of American youngsters consume too much salt that can lead to health issues such as high blood pressure. Agency has found the condition in one of every six children in the United States. American children consume most sodium through processed foods, CDC report says. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, lowering salt in children’s diet today can
prevent diseases tomorrow. Agency said that children who are overweight should consume lower amount of sodium. CDC officials wrote, “The taste for salt is established through diet at a young age. Parents and caregivers can help lower sodium by influencing the way foods are produced, sold, prepared, and served”. CDC officials have advised parents to feed their children the snack which are healthy and contain lower amount of sodium. They have also encouraged parents to feed kids vegetables and fruit. According to CDC officials, parents should consult nutrition labels to choose healthy and low salt foods for their kids.
September 13 - 19, 2014
41
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Sports Interational Oscar Pistorius trial: Murder verdicts ruled out THE judge in the Oscar Pistorius trial has ruled out murder charges, but has left it to Friday to announce whether he is guilty of culpable homicide. Judge Thokozile Masipa said prosecutors had failed to prove the Olympic athlete killed his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp deliberately in the toilet after a row, prompting tears from Mr Pistorius. But she said he acted too hastily and his conduct had clearly been negligent. Adjourning the trial, she said a reasonable person would not have fired. Judge Masipa had earlier described Mr Pistorius as an evasive witness but said this did not mean he
was guilty. Clearing him of murder charges, she said he could not have foreseen killing whoever was behind the toilet door. The South African Olympic sprinter had denied murdering Ms Steenkamp on Valentine’s Day last year, saying he thought there was an intruder. Mr Pistorius, 27, has pleaded not guilty to all the charges he faces, including two counts of shooting a firearm in public and the illegal possession of ammunition. ‘FACTS WRONG’ Judge Masipa began by detailing the charges against the athlete and
repeating extracts of his testimony, reading in a slow, measured way. She then moved on to a summary of the trial. A tense-looking Mr Pistorius looked on from the dock, and wept several times during the proceedings. The judge questioned the reliability of several witnesses who apparently heard screams and gunshots at the time of the incident, saying most of those who said they had heard the incident had “got facts wrong”. The prosecution had used these witnesses to try to prove that Mr Pistorius had killed Ms Steenkamp with premeditation after an argument. Later in her judgement, Judge Masipa concluded that the prosecution had failed in this. “The state has not proved beyond reasonable doubt that the accused is guilty of premeditated murder,” she said. “There are just not enough facts to support such a finding.” The judge added that the accused believed his life was in danger and therefore could not be found guilty of a lesser charge of murder. “How could the accused reasonably have foreseen that the shot he fired would kill the
The South African judge said that there is not enough evidence to convict Oscar Pistorius of premeditated murder. He could still face a lesser charge of culpable homicide for killing his girlfriend.
deceased?” she said. “Clearly he did not subjectively foresee this as a possibility, that he would kill the person behind the door, let alone the deceased as he thought she was in the bedroom at the time.” But Judge Masipa then adjourned for lunch before moving on to the charge of culpable homicide, or manslaughter, which suggests negligence without intention to kill and which could still mean a jail sentence. Most of the trial, which began on 3 March 2014, has been televised and attracted worldwide attention. Before the fatal shooting, the
27-year-old athlete was feted in South Africa and known as the “blade runner”. He had won gold at the London 2012 Paralympic Games and also competed at the Olympics. The judgement at his trial is likely to be well over 100 pages. The judge went through each charge, summing up the prosecution and defence cases and analysing the evidence. Ms Steenkamp, a 29-year-old model and law graduate, was hit three times by bullets shot through a toilet door by Mr Pistorius at his home in the capital, Pretoria, in the early hours of 14 February 2013. (BBC)
Spain lose in World Cup quarter-final shocker Michael Schumacher, 45, sustained severe head trauma in a skiing accident at the French Alps resort of Meribel on December 29.
Schumacher discharged from hospital, ‘difficult road’ still ahead FORMER F1 champion Michael Schumacher has been discharged from a Swiss hospital and is returning to his home, where he’ll continue his recovery from head injuries suffered in a skiing accident last year, his spokeswoman said Tuesday. “Considering the severe injuries he suffered, progress has been made in the past weeks and months,” said Sabine Kehm. “There is still, however, a long and difficult road ahead.” Schumacher, 45, sustained severe head trauma in a skiing accident at the French Alps resort of Meribel on December 29. His investigative team said it
thinks the experienced skier hit a rock hidden beneath the snow while traversing an area between two marked pistes, which catapulted him face-first onto another rock. He was treated first at a hospital in Grenoble, in France, and then in June moved to a hospital in Lausanne, Switzerland, near the Schumacher family home. Kehm appealed, as she has previously, for the privacy of his family to be respected as Schumacher continues his recovery. The German national is a seven-time FI world champion. (CNN)
SPAIN centre Pau Gasol has doubts about his future with the national team following the hosts’ shock quarter-final defeat by France at the basketball World Cup on Wednesday. The Spaniards, packed with NBA talents and joint favourites with the United States, were expected to reach the final but the contest against France which began with fans in festive spirits ended with calls for coach Juan Antonio Orenga to resign. The defeat could well mean the end of an era for a successful Spanish side who lifted the 2006 World Cup, bagged silver medals at the last two Olympics and won two of the last three European Championships. “You never know when it is your last game or your last tournament,” Gasol told reporters after the 65-52 loss. The Chicago Bulls player has been the talisman for the side but he, like several others in the squad, are approaching the end of their illustrious careers. “I would like to play until I am 50 but I doubt I will. It is an honour to play for my country but you never know...We have great young players coming through and I am sure that we will have a strong side for the future,” said the 34-year-old. “It is a painful defeat. We had big hopes and up until now had been playing very well. The 50 rebounds
Chicago Bulls’ centre Pau Gasol has hinted about
that they took compared to (Spain’s) 28 is a massive difference. They dominated this area and we didn’t move the ball around. “I am proud of the team and my team-mates. It reminds me of Athens 2004 (Olympics) when we won all the games and we lost in the quarter-finals. It is very painful but it is part of sport.” Gasol, who faced France carrying an injury, was one of the few players to come out of the game with some credit but was unable to lift the team. His brother Marc Gasol had travelled back to Barcelona the previous day for the birth of his
daughter and looked disorientated and lost in both defence and attack. Serge Ibaka also had a poor match as he continually failed to find the basket with throws from distance and was unable to hold France back with his usual intensity in defence. Spain guard Juan Carlos Navarro felt his team mates were complacent. “Everyone thought we were in the final before we played the games. It is clear that we did not prepare well for the game as we should have done and now the final has passed us by,” the 34-year-old told reporters. (Reuters)
42
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
September 13 - 19, 2014
Sports Interational
Mayweather wants two more fights after Marcos Maidana FLOYD Mayweather said he intends to have two more fights after Saturday’s rematch with Marcos Maidana in Las Vegas before retiring in 2015. However, the 37-year-old Mayweather quashed reports that he is in talks with Philippine legend Manny Pacquiao. Mayweather, who is unbeaten in 46 professional fights, earned a majority decision over Argentine Maidana in May. “I’ve only got two more fights left [after Maidana],” said the welterweight and light-middleweight world champion. Asked about the possibility of fighting seven-weight world champion Pacquiao, who defends his WBO welterweight title against Chris Algieri on 22 November, the American responded: “Not true. “I can’t say what the future holds but [Pacquiao’s promoter] Bob Arum and Pacquiao are trying to sell tickets for the Algieri bout.” If Mayweather is successful in his three remaining contracted fights with American broadcaster Showtime, he will be level with heavyweight great Rocky Marciano, who retired with 49 wins and no defeats. And the idea of going one better than Marciano and reaching 50-0 could alter Mayweather’s retirement
If Mayweather won his remaining fights, he will be level with great Rocky Marciano, who retired with 49 wins and no defeats.
plans. The return bout with Maidana at the MGM Grand is only the second rematch Mayweather, who will be defending his WBC and WBA welterweight and WBC lightmiddleweight belts, has granted since he turned pro in 1996. Mayweather won a controversial unanimous decision over Jose Castillo in 2002 before outpointing the Mexican again eight months later. Maidana, who has won 35
and lost four of his 39 pro fights, provided a surprisingly stiff test for Mayweather in their first meeting, landing 221 punches, more than any other opponent. “I am very well prepared but this time around I already know him,” said the 31-year-old Maidana. “I am going to pace myself this time. I am not going to waste punches.” Meanwhile, Mayweather courted more controversy by springing to the defence of American footballer Ray Rice, who was sacked by the Baltimore Ravens and suspended indefinitely by the NFL after a video emerged of him punching his partner. The NFL initially suspended Rice for two games in July but increased the punishment once the more damning evidence became public. “They had said they suspended him for two games,” said Mayweather, who served two months in jail in 2012 after being found guilty of battery on an ex-girlfriend. “Whether they’d seen the tape or not, I actually believe a person should stick to their word. If you tell me you’re going to do something, do what you’re going to say you’re going to do. “I think there are a lot of worse things that go on in other people’s households, also. It’s just not caught on video.” (BBC)
Netherlands suffer shock loss to Czechs in Euro qualifier NO one in the Netherlands will be panicking just yet but this isn’t how the Dutch wanted to start their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign. The Netherlands -- fresh off an uplifting third-place finish at the World Cup in Brazil -- lost their first Euro or World Cup qualifier since October 2011 after a slumping Czech Republic overcame Guus Hiddink’s weakened side 2-1 in Group A thanks to an injury-time effort. It stemmed from a defensive blunder, as Daryl Janmaat’s header intended for his keeper Jasper Cillessen went past Cillessen, hit the post and gave Vaclav Pilar an easy finish. Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s Sweden topped the Netherlands three years ago when the visitors had already locked up first place in their Euro 2012 qualifying group but the last time the Netherlands lost a meaningful qualifier came seven years ago against Belarus. It wasn’t the start Hiddink wanted in his second stint in charge as national team boss, especially after he saw his team fall 2-0 to Italy in a
Borek Dockal, right, scored for the Czech Republic in its 2-1 win over the Netherlands in a Euro qualifier.
glamor friendly last week. Hiddink has been quizzed about formations since he took over from Louis van Gaal, though the absence of winger Arjen Robben might be the biggest reason why the Netherlands only managed four shots on target against the Czechs in Prague. Robben sparkled in Brazil, and the Netherlands’ mediocre display Tuesday will strengthen claims that when he’s not in the lineup, it’s a different -- and less potent -- Oranje.
Borek Dockal handed the Czechs, who were winless in four games and lost 1-0 to the U.S. at home last week, the lead in the 22nd minute with a fine effort off the post. Stefan de Vrij leveled in the 55th on a header and it appeared as if the teams would share the points. But in the first minute of injury time, Pilar struck to deliver the Czechs’ first win over the Netherlands since a 3-2 result -- that match was a classic -- at Euro 2004. (CNN)
Pollard named Mumbai Indians captain KIERON Pollard has been named Mumbai Indians captain for the Champions League Twenty20 after Rohit Sharma was ruled out with injuries. Pollard has been with Mumbai since 2010, but has not led the team before this tournament. He had been captain of Barbados Tridents, winners of the Caribbean Premier League this season. Anil Kumble, the Mumbai team mentor, welcomed the appointment. “I am confident that Kieron with his varied experience and impressive track record, will rise to the occasion, and align the Mumbai Indians for a competitive performance,” he said. (Cricinfo)
Kieron Pollard was victorious with his Barbados Tridents team at this year’s Caribbean Premier League.
Serena Williams is now fourth on the all-time list of major winners alongside Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert.
Williams “felt good” after winning 18th Grand Sla title SERENA Williams said she had felt the pressure of chasing an 18th Grand Slam title until Sunday’s US Open victory. The American beat Caroline Wozniacki 6-3 6-3 to go fourth on the all-time list of major winners alongside Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert. Williams, 32, admitted it had been on her mind all year, and was the first thing she thought of upon victory. “I’ve been trying to reach it for so long,” she said. “I didn’t really think I would get there. I felt so good.” Navratilova and Evert joined Williams for the trophy ceremony and presented her with a bracelet carrying the number ‘18’ to make her achievement. “It means a lot to me,” said the world number one. “I just could never have imagined that I would be mentioned with Chris Evert or with Martina Navratilova, because I was just a kid with a dream and a racquet. “Living in Compton, this never happened before.” It was Williams’s sixth US Open and 18th Grand Slam title, but her
first in a year that, before New York, had seen her fail to get past the fourth round at any of the other majors. “I definitely did not think I was going to win a Slam this year,” she added. “And I even said, ‘I’m ready to start next year already. Let’s put this behind me.’ “I’m grateful to win a Grand Slam this year. It feels really good.” Williams has now won six US Open, five Wimbledon, five Australian Open and two French Open titles over the course of 15 years - a record span of years between winning Grand Slams. Both Navratilova and Evert won their 18 titles over the course of 12 years, and Williams’s longevity is something that John McEnroe, a four-time US Open winner, believes makes her the best ever. “She won her first US Open at 17, she’s about to turn 33 - that’s a pretty good run she’s got going there,” said the American on CBS TV coverage. “It’s pretty hard to argue with the fact that if she’s playing the way she’s capable of playing, she’s the greatest female player of all time.
September 13 - 19, 2014
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Sports Interational
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U.S. Open: Marin Cilic crushes Kei Nishikori to win men’s title
Saeed Ajmal is the No. 1 ranked bowler in the ICC ODI rankings and is among the top ten in Tests and Twenty20 internationals. He is the highest wicket-taker across formats in the last three years.
Pakistan’s spinner Ajmal banned from bowling IN a huge blow to Pakistan, offspinner Saeed Ajmal has been banned from bowling in international cricket by the ICC after his action was deemed to be illegal for all deliveries. Ajmal, who has been Pakistan’s lead spinner in all formats in recent years, was reported after the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle last month. The decision to ban him was taken after an ICC accredited team of bio-mechanics experts tested his action at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane. Ajmal can apply to the ICC for a re-assessment at any time after modifying his action. “An independent analysis has found the bowling action of Pakistan’s offspinner Saeed Ajmal to be illegal and, as such, the player has been suspended from bowling in international cricket with immediate effect,” the ICC said. “The analysis revealed that all his deliveries exceeded
the 15 degrees level of tolerance permitted under the regulations.” Ajmal, however, was hopeful that a medical condition - the natural bend in his arm because of an accident would work in his favour when the appeal is made to the ICC’s bowling review group. “I am positive about this and not worried because I believe I can make the World Cup,” Ajmal told reporters in Faisalabad. “They are yet to consider my medical reports and once they do it I am sure there shouldn’t be any problem. If one has a medical problem then what can he do? So I am 100% positive and hoping for the best.” Ajmal is the No. 1 ranked bowler in the ICC ODI rankings and is among the top ten in Tests and Twenty20 internationals. He is the highest wicket-taker across formats in the last three years.
Nations Cup 2015:
Cameroon hit form to thrash Ivory Coast CAMEROON continued their resurgence as they hammered Ivory Coast 4-1 in their 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Yaounde. Having put their disastrous World Cup campaign behind them to beat DR Congo last weekend, the Indomitable Lions made it two wins out of two games in Group D in their quest to reach next year’s tournament in Morocco. Cameroon striker Vincent Aboubakar and Clinton Njie (on the right above) both scored twice as the hosts ran out comprehensive victors. Both forwards were also on target in the Indomitable Lions win on Saturday over DR Congo, in what was Njie’s international debut. A deflection off a defender helped Njie put Cameroon ahead on 15 minutes only for Yaya Toure to level for Ivory Coast 10 minutes later
when he slid in to convert a cross. Aboubakar intercepted a headed back-pass to fire past veteran goalkeeper Boubacar Barry and give the home team a 2-1 half-time lead. A loose ball was hammered home by Aboubakar on 54 minutes and he set up Njie to score with an closerange shot 14 minutes from time. In Group D’s earlier match, DR Congo picked up their first points of this qualifying phase by beating Sierra Leone 2-0. In Group A, Congo defeated Sudan 2-0 while South Africa drew 0-0 with Nigeria. In Group B, Malawi defeated Ethiopia 3-2, while Algeria won 1-0 over Mali. Group C’s Burkina Faso whip Angola 3-0 while Lesotho and Gabon drew 1-1. In Group E Ghana beat Togo 3-2, while Uganda got past Guinea 2-0.
GRIGOR Dimitrov and Milos Raonic have often been talked about this year as being part of the next generation of players who can break up the dominance of tennis’ Big Four. But judging by his display at the U.S. Open, Marin Cilic could be the most likely candidate. Cilic became only the third men’s player outside Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray to win a grand slam title since early 2005 when he crushed Kei Nishikori 6-3 6-3 6-3 in under two hours in New York on Monday. Few, however, would have seen it coming -- last year the 25-year-old Croatian didn’t play at the season’s final major because he was serving a drug suspension. Cilic felt aggrieved when he received his nine-month ban after testing positive for a banned stimulant he said got into his system accidentally. It was later reduced to four months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, which ruled that the initial punishment handed out by the International Tennis Federation was too severe. He returned late last year with extra gusto -- and a serve made even better by his charismatic coach, countryman and idol, Goran Ivanisevic. Ivanisevic himself was one of the biggest servers in the history of the men’s game. “In this last year my team has brought something special to me,
Cilic became only the third men’s player outside Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray to win a grand slam title since early 2005.
especially Goran,” Cilic, who pocketed $3 million, told the crowd. “We’re working really hard, but most important of all the things he brought to me was enjoying tennis and always having fun. “I think I enjoyed my best tennis over here and I played the best ever in my life. “One of the biggest pieces of advice Goran gave me this tournament was to not think too much,” he later told Britain’s Sky Sports. “Toss the ball, hit it, play
your game, be aggressive. Try to be relaxed.” The 6-foot-6 Cilic overpowered Federer in the semifinals in straight sets and did the same against the diminutive Nishikori, firing 17 aces and winning 80% of his first-serve points. In the sixth game of the second set, Cilic hit four straight aces to hold to love. And when it wasn’t his thunderous serve, it was his heavy ground strokes that pinned back his Japanese opponent. (CNN)
2015 World Cup: FIFA defends synthetic turf decision A FIFA executive is sympathetic to players protesting about synthetic turf at the 2015 Women’s World Cup but says hosts Canada had the best bid. Nearly 50 top players have signed a petition and threatened legal action if matches are not played on grass. “Of course I have sympathy with players who want to play in the best conditions,” said Fifa’s Moya Dodd. “But the important thing is to ensure that the tournament will be played in the best facilities available.” The Australian, who was voted onto FIFA’s executive committee in 2013, added: “Certainly, the World Cup is being played in the country with the best bid.” The petition has been signed by the 2012 and 2013 FIFA Players of the Year, Abby Wambach of the United States and Germany’s Nadine Angerer, as well as former England captain Faye White. Lawyers for the group have accused FIFA and World Cup organisers of sex discrimination,
with the group calling on global football chiefs, including Uefa’s Michel Platini, to intervene. The players also allege they were misled by Fifa into believing that traditional surfaces would be provided if there was significant opposition to the artificial pitches, proposed for all six venues in Canada. US attorney Hampton Dellinger says he is representing nearly 50 players from countries including the United States, Brazil, Germany, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. “Despite reported pressure to stay on the sidelines, players from around the world are unified in this effort,” he said. “The players are frustrated and say this is a step backwards. Every previous World Cup - men and women - has been played on grass. “We are talking about a couple of million dollars, a tiny fraction of Fifa’s annual budget, to fix the fields in question to bring them to a level worthy of the tournament. “Because it is so easily resolvable,
I remain hopeful that talks will begin soon but if they don’t, I suspect we will see them in court.” The world players’ union Fifpro said it understood the concern about next year’s World Cup. “Players prefer to play on natural pitches and it’s unthinkable that FIFA would choose an artificial pitch for the men’s World Cup,” said Tijs Tummers, the organisation’s director of player services. But former Australia international Dodd said artificial surfaces could have benefits. “In some countries, [synthetic turf] is the best or only viable option in order to host a World Cup, so I don’t think you can exclude it on that basis,” she said. “I’ve played on synthetic turf and it’s been better than a lot of the grass pitches I’ve played on. It’s easy to generalise around the quality of turf, and those generalisations aren’t always accurate. It’s important to be open to technological advancements that make football better and more accessible.” (BBC)
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Sports National
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
September 13 - 19, 2014
Josh for Sports
The demise and despise of a native sporting legend IN penning this special column, I’m encountering a tremendous amount of mixed emotions. It is extremely difficult to write a sports column about oneself and remain totally objective. However, I feel compelled to share some of my frustrations with you, my loyal fans. Because, in simple truth, I don’t know long I’ll be around to encourage or entertain you with the historical facts about sports in the TCI as is documented all over the world. DENYING YOUR HISTORY BRINGS STAGNATION AND REGRESSION When a country does not build on the positive aspects of its historical accomplishments and continuously (for selfish reasons or jealously) ignore the facts, then that country walks in total bliss of ignorance, especially if those calling the shots don’t have the technical knowhow, expertise or practical knowledge or vision. Unfortunately in my opinion that is the mindset of the elected government and their close circle of detractors with whom they commiserate.
team, but I’ve helped to pave the way for Olympic and World champions and coaches (also numerous other international medallists)—all happened after being diagnosed with MS symptoms. I was between 23-25 years old.
By Joshua Gardiner
EXITING THE ABSTRACT Not caring to bore you, let me come to the meat of the dilemma that confronts me. Forty years ago I was diagnosed by the CDC as having all the symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). I should have been dead many years ago, but God had a plan for me to pass on my sporting knowledge to my fellow TC Islanders. Along the way I fell down, got up and ever since I have been determined to give my all to my country. INTERNATIONAL ACCLAIM In the Bahamas and Jamaica you will find that I am a legendary athlete and coach (Bahamas). Not only have I never coached a losing
THE TCI REJECTION Finally in 1977 I returned to TCI, to place my country of birth on the sporting map—but it was not what I had expected. In fact it was a rude awakening. In Grant Turk, many people despised me and called me a Bahamian. Some even told me to go back to the Bahamas. When they discovered that I was a born Bottle Creeker they said: “Oh, you from Corkus—west of the Buoy.” Even with that mental backdrop, I steeled myself and with a determined zeal, in eight months I had literally put the TCI on the global sporting map—as I guided athletes to win four international medals, three in the USA (gold, silver and bronze) and a bronze at the CARIFTA Games in Nassau. We also went to the Commonwealth Games in Canada, where I was overthrown by the
conspiracy of certain persons—all from GT. So great were my accomplishments that the government made commemorative stamps and coins to mark this historical milestone. Plus the National Film Board of Canada came here to do a documentary of our sports leap. I was still suffering from the symptoms of MS, but blocked it out of my mind. No one in the entire TCI could beat me in sprints, playing table tennis or volleyball (having played internationally for the Bahamas). Some of my students in 1977/8 became politicians: Mike Misick, Jeffrey Hall, Floyd Hall, Floyd Seymour, Lillian Boyce, Samuel Been, Amanda Misick, Art Robinson and a few others. MY MEDICAL DILEMMA These people refuse to give me a job in sports—not even on the ground to pick up garbage. They refused to exploit my expertise as a consultant from 2006 to 2014. Thus we only knock our heads in the dark because we refuse to utilise the talents that lie among us. Not once have I heard my name mentioned in the House of Assembly. I have not worked in eight years, I
am almost 75% crippled. My condition is extraordinarily grave. I fall down every day. The interim government paid rent for me for 14 months—no food or funds. The elected government has paid for me since May of 2014. I have to beg for food and force myself to try and sell newspapers. Many times I fall down several times a day. National Insurance refuses to give me invalidity benefits. Anyone that sees me knows that I am practically crippled and can hardly walk. The Hon. Minister for Social Services promised me from December 2013 that once the budget was passed that she would make sure that I receive some assistance. I have been refused by the people of GT. The people of Cheshire Hall have been most rude to me as a patient to the extent that I have become fearful and apprehensive. Thus I’m trying to seek medical attention abroad, on my own. A LOAD OFF MY CHEST At any rate, I’ve offloaded my stress. Give me my flowers while I live. Thank you all for your love and kind words. Love forever Josh!
Blue Haven Resort Mixed Tag Rugby League starts next Thursday THE Mixed Tag Rugby League, which will see both males and females competing in one competition, will start next Thursday according to information from the Turks and Caicos Islands Rugby Football Union (TCIRFU). The event this season will be sponsored by Blue Haven Resort. TCIRFU’s PRO Paul Collis said that the objective was to place the participants in eight teams in the eight-week battle. “The league is open to men and
women and is a ‘social’ event but also competitive.” When the league was held earlier this year (under Pizza Pizza sponsorship), the BCB Wahoos defended their titles with a 12-2 win over the Vix Tipsy Turtle in the Cup final at the Meridian ground. Along with Pizza Pizza, BCQS, The Vix Bar and Grill, Trail Enterprises, British Caribbean Bank and Construction Advisory Services Ltd had all contributed in making the league a success.
The BCB Wahoos will look to defend their title when action bullies off next Thursday.
September 13 - 19, 2014
Sports National
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Burant returns as rugby president
KEITH Burant was re-elected president of the Turks and Caicos Islands Rugby Football Union (TCIRFU) last Thursday. At the local body’s AGM and elections of office bearers at the TCIRFU’s Club House on Meridian Field, Burant was voted in for his seventh consecutive term. Nik Hight returned as secretary while Paul Collis was voted back in as public relations officer (PRO) whereas Callis Jones was elected as the youth development officer. Former vice-captain Joe Ryan
was promoted to national senior captain, a role that Sean O’Neill opted out of prior to elections. Gareth Butler, who served as the PRO for many years, is now the new treasurer (replacing Fiona Donaldson) while Ranald Schulz replaced Claire McAvinchey (who opted out for personal reasons) as women’s representative. Simon Taylor was elected social secretary while Bjorn Griffith is the new vice-captain and Franco Mompremier the youth representative.
The 2014 TCIRFU Executive: (l-r) Gareth Butler, Paul Collis, Franco Mompremier, Simon Taylor, Bjorn Griffith, Keith Burant, Callis Jones and Ranald Schulz. Missing are Joe Ryan and Nik Hight.
Provo Church Co-Ed Slow Pitch Softball League:
Jericho and Catholic Church shock title favourites LAST year’s runners up Jericho Baptist Church and new comers the Roman Catholic Church will battle from Monday in the Provo Church Co-Ed Slow Pitch Softball League championship series. The duo swept title favourites: defending champions St. Monica’s Anglican Church and former champion and the 2014 number one seeded playoff team Bethany Baptist Church respectively at the National Stadium in their best-in-three series earlier this week. On Monday night the Roman Catholic Church defeated Bethany 8-5, while in a tense battle and rematch
from last year’s championship series Jericho prevailed over the defending champions 12-9. On Tuesday night Jericho’s late surge resulted in another 8-5 win after the teams were almost even for four innings. Bethany attempted to force a game-three against the Catholic Church and the battle was on. Great defence left the game scoreless up to the top of the third, but at the bottom of the third Bethany made errors which unleashed the Catholic Church and they hurried in eight runs. That innings took the sail out of the 2014 top preliminary round side as the game ended 11-2.
Second PABA Junior camp tips off next Saturday The Provo Amateur Basketball Association (the TCI’s most active) will tip off its second Junior Basketball Training programme from Saturday, September 20th, 2014 at the Graceway Sports Centre. The programme caters for young players between the ages of 4-12 years old. Players will learn the fundamentals and rules of the game
in a fun atmosphere. Mr. Ira Taylor. Toriano Williams, Jody Harvey, Keith Cox and Sydwell Glasgow will instruct the course. The programme will run for 12 weeks. Registration fee is $15 per child. Glasgow said that: “The (previous) camp produced many promising players, some of whom are now attending high school.” The camp will run from 8:30h to 10:30h on Saturdays.
Jericho Baptist Church, who placed second in the 2013 Provo Church Co-Ed Softball League, will either repeat the feat or win the league this year.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
September 13 - 19, 2014
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.46 acres overlooking the creek, spanning King Road and Windsor Road
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September 13 - 19, 2014
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September 13 - 19, 2014