Turks & Caicos Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 26 | No. 05 | February 4 - 10, 2012

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inside



BBC uncovers the truth on

Ashcroft

– Links to Johnston International ‘proved’

LORD Ashcroft was secretly in control of TCI’s largest construction firm, UK’s Panorama programme revealed this week.

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AG says several local lawyers under scrutiny on alleged tax evasion In the wake of the Emerald Cay judgment, authorities have widened their investigations, bringing under scrutiny several local lawyers, according to Attorney General Huw Shepheard.

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ON THE WEB tcweeklynews.com

Filipinos were right – says forum chair Lillian Missick lashes out at “disingenuous” Forum Members

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TCIG wins $9.3M on Emerald Cay Claims The Turks and Caicos Government, has been awarded judgment of $9.3M against Emerald Cay Limited and Worldwide Commercial Properties Limited, arising out of the underpayment of Stamp Duty on the acquisition of Emerald Cay ...

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The Filipinos’ meeting at Grace Bay Sports Complex was disrupted by irate TC Islanders

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 4 - 10, 2012

February 4 - 10, 2012

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 4 - 10, 2012

NATIONAL

BBC uncovers the truth on Ashcroft

– Links to Johnston International ‘proved’ LORD Ashcroft was secretly in control of TCI’s largest construction firm, UK’s Panorama programme revealed this week.

Following an in depth two year investigation the show has disclosed that the Conservative peer was heading Johnston International years after he sold it.

‘Panorama: Secrets of the Tory Billionaire’ presented by Declan Lawn was broadcast on UK television’s BBC One on Monday.

In it Ashcroft was accused of misleading the stock market and the media about his links to the construction company that eventually went bust with debts of around £19m.

In 1999 he announced on the London Stock Exchange that he had sold Johnston International, and said that he no longer had any “economic beneficial or legal interest” in the company.

But the programme obtained evidence that showed he had continued to secretly control the company long after that date.

Panorama spoke to 14 former employees, who all said they were told, long after 1999, that Lord Ashcroft was their boss.

One former employee, who did not want to be identified, said that Lord Ashcroft was often mentioned during meetings in the Johnston office.

“They used to refer to him sometimes as Michael Ashcroft and they would also refer to MAA,

which are his initials.

“And they would refer to running things past MAA. And no-one was under any illusions as to who that was. It was very clear that that was Lord Ashcroft.”

The programme also obtained dozens of faxes that were sent to Lord Ashcroft by the Johnston chief executive Allan Forrest for seven years after the 1999 sale.

The faxes update Lord Ashcroft on company business and ask for his instructions on major building projects.

Following which he wrote his instructions on some of the faxes and sent them back.

One fax said: “Dear Michael, a short note to thank you for the salary increase. Much appreciated.”

Another refers to Johnston International’s parent company, Oxford Ventures.

Mr Forrest wrote: “The perception in Belize is that you are still in full control of Oxford’s assets (which you are of course).”

Johnston was one of the largest construction companies in the Caribbean, until it closed down without warning in June 2010.

It was responsible for building corruption accused former Premier Michael Misick’s luxury home valued at $16m, Leeward Marina, the Alexandra and Ocean Club resorts among others.

Creditors are owed around $30m (£19m) following its collapse as well as many former employees who have

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

been left out of pocket.

At a creditors’ meeting last September, Johnston’s liquidators warned creditors that there was very little cash left in the company.

They also said that $2m should have been paid to the workers but had been transferred instead to the British Caribbean Bank, Lord Ashcroft’s bank.

British Caribbean Bank denies that this money should have gone to the workers.

The programme-makers said that “there is no suggestion that Lord Ashcroft is corrupt”, but suggested that the alleged secrecy in which he has wrapped his business affairs is “hardly in keeping with the Government’s demand for greater

Lord Ashcroft was secretly in control of TCI’s largest construction firm, UK’s Panorama programme revealed this week.

corporate transparency”.

According to the BBC Lord Ashcroft’s lawyers said that he stood by every statement he made to the programme.

They also claim that he did not have any kind of interest in the ownership of the Johnston group of companies.

Michael Ashcroft was made a life peer in 2000 on the recommendation of William Hague, the Foreign Secretary, who was then leader of the Conservative Party.

The peer is believed to be one of the biggest political donors in British history, having given around £10m to the Conservatives.

TCIG wins $9.3M on Emerald Cay Claims The Turks and Caicos Government, has been awarded judgment of $9.3M against Emerald Cay Limited and Worldwide Commercial Properties Limited, arising out of the underpayment of Stamp Duty on the acquisition of Emerald Cay in 2006.

Chief Justice Goldsborough handed down the ruling on Wednesday, following a hearing to assess damages held on 29 and 30 November 2011.

On 21 June 2011, Chief Justice Martin, a visiting Chief Justice at

the time, awarded the Government an interim payment of $1.25M after entering judgment on liability in the case. He ordered a full assessment of damages that have now taken place. The judgment for $9.3m replaces the interim award of $1.25m given last June.

Emerald Cay Ltd, a company owned

by US timber baron Tim Blixseth, acquired a nine-bedroom, private island property in August 2006 from Worldwide Commercial Properties for $28M. Some $2.7M in duty should have been paid to the Government,

however, the sale was recorded on land documents as just $10M and Blixseth paid only $975,000.

Attorney General Huw Shepheard in a comment said, “We are delighted to have obtained this judgment, which underlines the commitment the Government has to ensuring stamp duty is paid, and to pursue those who do avoid stamp duty. It is another very good result for the civil recovery team and very tangible evidence of the progress being made by them.”

Emerald Cay Ltd, a company owned by US timber baron Tim Blixseth, acquired a nine-bedroom, private island property in August 2006 from Worldwide Commercial Properties for $28M.

February 4 - 10, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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NATIONAL

Filipinos were right says forum chair Lillian Missick lashes out at “disingenuous” Forum Members

BY VANESSA NARINE The Filipino meeting that caused a stir among Islanders, last Thursday, was convened through the proper channels, according to Chair of the Consultative Forum Lillian Missick.

Missick made it clear that the Pathways to Citizenship consultations are not restricted to TCI Belongers.

“The Filipino community requested a meeting and that meeting was granted…the Filipinos went through the proper channels to hold their meeting,” she told the Weekly News in an invited comment on Thursday.

The Filipinos’ meeting at Grace Bay Sports Complex was disrupted by irate TC Islanders, who contend that the matter of Citizenship should be left in the hands of the local people.

Missick acknowledged this and

noted that people are entitled to their opinions, but stressed that there are no restrictions on who can contribute to these consultations.

“People can object, but if groups go through the proper channels and make their request, why shouldn’t this be accommodated,” she said.

TWO MEETINGS On the question of having two meetings at the same time, Missick explained that a schedule is made up for these consultations and is circulated among all members of the Forum, so that there can be adequate planning and there are no clashes.

She made it clear that the downtown meeting at the Gustavo Lightbourne Complex was not on the schedule of consultations; rather a Forum member informed her that the meeting would be addressed in the private capacities

Ashcroft fights Independent in court

– Billionaire denies profits from corruption LORD Ashcroft fought The Independent in court this week in a bid to clear his name after he was publically accused of profiting from corruption.

In 2009 the British newspaper printed two articles which claimed that he knowingly benefited from “a culture of immorality” in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

However the billionaire Conservative peer says the stories about his alleged business links in the TCI are inaccurate.

This week The Independent’s former publisher Independent News and Media (INM) battled with Lord Ashcroft’s lawyers in the UK Court of Appeal.

They are appealing against Justice Eady’s ruling which prevents them from seeking to prove that the allegations made in the original articles are true.

During the case Lord Ashcroft’s lawyers argued that allegations in the paper were so vague they were impossible to refute.

However, David Price representing INM told judges that it was illogical for Lord Ashcroft to claim he could not understand what was being alleged about him and still demand damages.

He described Mr Justice Eady’s decision to strike out the entire defence of justification as “draconian”.

During the case Mr Price repeated the newspaper’s claims that Lord Ashcroft had profited through Johnston International and through the British Caribbean Bank, run by his son, Andrew.

He told a panel of judges that the former Tory deputy chairman knew that companies he controlled were doing business with corrupt politicians on the Turks and Caicos Islands but did nothing to stop them.

“What is being stated about him is that he funded this boom, he constructed this boom, through Johnston, knowing this boom was being created through systematic corruption,” Mr Price said.

“He is not the corrupter. The corrupter is Michael Misick,” he added, before accusing Lord Ashcroft of being “party to a culture of political corruption”.

Lord Ashcroft denies being the ultimate boss of Johnston International and is demanding damages on the grounds that the articles are defamatory.

The hearing was scheduled to end on Thursday, February 2.

of some Forum Members.

“The request made by the Filipino community was channeled properly and that request was copied in an email to all Members of the Forum so they knew there was going to be a meeting that Thursday,” Missick said.

According to her, any contrary disposition being peddled by Forum Members on the matter is because they did not read the email or they are being simply disingenuous.

The Chairperson added that Forum Members had taken to engaging the community groups since that was the more proactive approach to solicit the public’s feedback, particularly since a less than an enthusiastic response was received form the local people.

When asked about other meetings with the expat community, she noted that there have been no requests from the Haitian or Dominican communities to have similar meetings.

In an invited comment, Forum Member Sharlene CartwrightRobinson, who chaired the meeting at the Gustavo Lightbourne Complex, said, she is unaware of any mandate to engage the expatriate community in the consultations.

“We were told go engage local civic and church groups, not other nationalities,” she said.

However, Missick maintains that she has publicly said more than

once that the Pathway to Citizenship consultations are open to everyone.

APOLOGY Chair of the Filipino Organizing Committee, Mr. Erwin Panga, in a press statement, said, “We consider our participation in this process as a privilege and not a right for us to demand, solicit or to duly exercise.

“I would like to state further that we will not in any way initiate any involvement in the legislative agenda of the Consultative Forum unless we were offered and our participation is being sought.

“Our only purpose was to take part, contribute and comply with what the Consultative Forum expects from us and we found it as a proper venue as well where we could also voice out our concern particularly on the “pathway” per se; on the road to citizenship and not much on the destination itself. Because along the way to citizenship, there are issues about labor and immigration where we are more concern which we believe will be part of the agenda that will be clarified as we go along the discussion.”

Panga explained that Organizing Committee was unaware of the town hall meeting at the Gustavo Lightbourne Complex.

“We were asked to select our schedule between the slots provided

Chair of the Consultative Forum Lillian Missick

which was either January 26 or January 27. We decided to choose the former since the said date was still open and more convenient to us.

We never thought that by selecting such schedule, it will put us in a much bigger trouble,” he said.

Panga, on behalf of the Filipino Community, has since expressed apologizes to all those who were affected particularly the attendees and the members of the Consultative Forum and guests for the turn-out of event.

“We did not expect that there would be disapproval inside the sports centre that suddenly changes the mood of the crowd. However, we do respect the emotions, concerns and principles of the very people who spoke in our midst, as this is their own right. All we looked forward to was a peaceful and friendly interaction inside the sports centre that will result to a healthy and productive discussion,” he said.

Panga added that the Filipino Community will continue to participate in any or all social and economic activities of this country and would still cooperate with the Consultative Forum whenever we are called for as long as it is not against the will of the TCI people.

AG says several local lawyers under scrutiny on alleged tax evasion

BY VANESSA NARINE In the wake of the Emerald Cay judgment, authorities have widened their investigations, bringing under scrutiny several local lawyers, according to Attorney General Huw Shepheard.

The AG, in an invited comment on Thursday, said the two lawyers involved in the Emerald Cay Claim, where the judgment was made on Thursday in favour of the government, are still under investigation.

“I expect to have a report soon,” he said.

The AG added that the investigation has widened beyond the Emerald Cay Claim and several other local lawyers have come under scrutiny for alleged tax evasion.

“A number of allegations are being investigated in the evasion of stamp duty…at present I am not at liberty to disclose the particulars, but investigations are underway,” he said.

Following a ruling in June by Chief Justice Martin, a visiting Judge at the time, an investigation into the actions of the two local lawyers involved in the Emerald Cay deal was recommended.

Justice Martin, at the time said, “On any assessment of the facts this was a carefully crafted scheme of tax evasion. It would not have been possible without the assistance of attorneys.”

Martin noted that he found that papers relating to the deal were “fraudulent devices to hide the true consideration being paid”.

On August 31, the AG announced

he had paid heed to Justice Martin’s words and had asked Helen Garlick’s Special Investigative Prosecution Team (SIPT) team to probe the profession.

Shepheard came under fire last year by the local Bar Association who accused him of tarnishing the image of the TCI legal profession.

They have reacted furiously to a statement Shepheard announcing a probe to determine whether attorneys habitually assist in stamp duty fraud; a statement the Bar Council called “reckless”.

At the time, Bar Council president, George Missick, said, “Although it does not say so, it has led many to believe that the entire profession is to be investigated with the effect that it has diminished the reputation of attorneys and the practice of law in these islands.”

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 4 - 10, 2012

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

Is NIB $10m transfer right?

Governor Todd insists on the transfer of $10m from NIB into the NHIP. This is according to estimates he has made of health costs not reported which he claims are the responsibility of NIB. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson of the Consultative Forum has spoken out against this and so has Floyd Seymour of NIB. Do you believe Governor Todd is just trying to prop up the NHIP as a temporary measure until an elected government has to face the short falls of the health plan or is Todd correct in his estimates?

Cartwright-Robinson has said NHIP ought to die a natural death. If NHIP is unaffordable what can be done to save health care in the TCI?

No right

The movement of funds from NIB to NHIP is an illegal one.

The Governor has no right to move the people’s pension money to do with as he pleases.

However, this new breed of English Dictators rather than adhere to the law, they simply change our laws to suit their purpose.

This is a modern day IRAQ. Too bad the US cannot save us from the Brits!

Something fishy

Something smells fishy including the last press release on the need to move the $10m.

The British decided that direct rule was needed to make sure TCI operated according to law.

If the standing laws since 1992 indicate that NIB owed less than the $10m then the real question is why override the law with estimates?

Governor Todd it seems is in a hurry and is determined to get at tens of millions of NIB funds just because it is there and because the National Health Plan is continuing to be a major cause of the unplanned budget deficits.

Unplanned by his predecessor Governor Wetherell who approved the NHIP, which the public did not seem to want.

To just make up a law without public debate or representation by the people it seems to me to be dictatorship of the same type taking several former elected ministers to court next week.

International Attorney Hall said we needed to boycott the tax before it began and John Smith who has his feet in two camps threatened us with huge fines if we did boycott. Who was right?

Real health issues

If NHIP has proven itself unaffordable after less than two years of operation that needs to be addressed.

We must recall we paid six months in advance with the new health tax and that slush fund was instantly used up.

We must also remember that the former Financial Minister was found lacking in ability in the inquiry and he and the now resigned Chief Medical Officer as well as the lady Health Minister who also is heading to court dreamed the health plan up.

Governor Wetherell is gone so why is Governor Todd not consulting and debating what to do with NHIP, which now is an economic noose around the TCIG budget’s neck.

At best, the $10m transfer is only a temporary solution. Let us admit NHIP was a mistake put in by allegedly corrupt ministers and an ill-informed Governor. Let us scrap it and start over.

Right now primary care is so poor that some real health issues will soon be with us.

Hardworking persons must pay

There should be no transfer because owing to the losses and the many unanswered questions huge doubts on the reason for the transfer remain.

The first question that comes to mind is this, is this transfer of funds justified?

It would seem that the hardworking persons of the Turk and Caicos Islands must pay endlessly to a national insurance fund and when some government department or related entity hits hard times they raid the NIS. At best this development ought to

provoke some meaningful, responsible and mature debate on where to go with the fund.

Too many hardworking people of the TCI are threatened, prosecuted and harassed when they cannot pay into the NIS fund.

The previous board of the NIS laughed at the people and declared there was ‘nothing’ wrong with losing a $10m here or a $10m there in respect of the fund; so one must agree that the questions of the Honourable Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson and the Honourable Seymour are pertinent questions.

As a fund itself, there are too many audit reports in respect of the NIS, wherein it was found that the bank accounts of the NIS could not be reconciled, so the NIS board simply adjusted or ‘cooked” the books to make reconciliation.

There are too many reports about former ministers raiding the NIS fund.

Most of all is the alleged $20m of NIS funds moving to the ill-fated TCI Bank only to be lost.

Not to forget the $5m moved just in time for the bank to collapse and to get lost in the rubbish of bad management, bad accounting and a huge $50m loan portfolio of unsecured loans.

The interim government, granted, came into office and met the PNP Government creating a hospital scam and a National Health Insurance Plan.

Persons who welcomed the interim government thought that there would have been an investigation into this scheme, which was orchestrated on the people to take five per cent of their salaries and to avoid proper accounting to the people.

The NHIP was badly planned because there were no proper statistics then when the PNP government passed that law and there are no proper statistics now to support a finding that there is a wide enough population base to support the NHIP. If the aim was to take care of the people the NHIP and the Interhealth deal would have been a good deal.

The result has been rich carpetbaggers are benefitting from it and without reason or explanation.

As soon as Johnston International Limited finished building this “$125m project” they declared bankruptcy leaving the employees unpaid.

Next we know that this 25 year loan will yield the true lenders, whoever they are, some $2.5bn.

It also seems that no one wants to investigate this scam even though evidence is coming out daily that it is a scam and replete with all manner of insider dealings.

Most embarrassing is the need to keep the Interhealth contract secret and off the internet.

This is so wrong. It is against this background ie. the questionable manner of maintaining finances at NIS, the cloud of doubt over NHIP and Interhealth Canada, that we must ask whether this proposed transfer is justified.

Is this band aid to cover deep wounds to the integrity of the NHIP? Cartwright Robinson is so right and one must have pent up anger over this scam.

Let the NHIP scam die because it is not truly benefiting the people of the TCI. It should not be saved because it never should have been.

The former PNP government never brought the deal to the people, they worked with Interhealth Canada to keep the deal secret, signed that agreement and made it all law in the NHIP ordinance.

An elected government has better things to do than to carry the load of the former PNP regime and this assumed load of the interim government.

At best it is a drain on the people, it is taking huge monies out the people of the TCI and in fact none of this for such a small country should ever cost this much.

Unfair question

If everyone, including the press, actually read the full government press release, you probably would not have asked this question.

If people are now keeping records and actually sending invoices, this won’t occur again.

As for NHIP dying a natural death - I wonder how that would affect our contract to pay Interhealth?

Take recommendations

NHIP would save enough money to run an efficient pharmaceutical claims processing service for patients filling prescriptions from a pharmacy perspective if they and the Ministry of Health actually took the time to read and implement the many letters and statements issued collaboratively by the pharmacists in the TCI. One such letter is in a bullet point easy to read format that explains exactly what needs to be corrected in order to save money for NHIP and benefit pharmacies and patients, despite the initial prediction of pharmaceutical health care expenditure per capita being grossly underestimated in comparison to other countries.

For example, the estimated pharmaceutical expenditure per person in UK was $381 and Canada was $684.

What was the estimated expenditure here - $65 dollars per person? Uh oh.

 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

February 4 - 10, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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NATIONAL

Governor reiterates commitment to South Caicos Governor Ric Todd made his second official visit to South Caicos last Friday (January 27), a visit during which he reiterates his commitment to visit each of them on a quarterly basis.

Todd, according to a news release, said, “I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to South Caicos last Friday. I much appreciated the warm and friendly welcome.

“I am committed to maintaining a close connection with the Island, its community and the individual issues they face.

“I would like to thank the local school children for greeting me at the airport, for entertaining me with their songs and for engaging on issues of mutual interest.

“When speaking to the school children I highlighted that empowerment is something you can only do for yourself, for example by study and hard work. I encouraged the children to work hard to deliver a positive future both for themselves and for TCI. “I was interested to hear about the varied and valuable work of DECR and view the facilities at the Medical Centre and I much appreciated the open, lively and constructive discussion at the “town hall meeting” and the opportunity to hear citizens views and concerns.”

The release added that the Governor was accompanied by his wife and was hosted by the District Commissioner Miss Emily Malcolm.

The main elements of the Governor’s programme were: • A one- on-one meeting with Miss Emily Malcolm where the District Commissioner briefed the Governor on the key issues on the Island • A visit to Marjorie Basden High School. The Governor toured the school’s facilities, made a speech and answered questions from the students on a range of issues including the Milestones, schools, tax and independence.

• A visit to Calvary Christian School where the children performed a series of songs for the Governor.

• A visit to DECR where the Governor met staff and was briefed on the work carried out by the Department.

• A tour of the Medical Centre and a chance to meet and thank the staff.

• A tour of, and briefing on, the High point/ Caicos Beach development.

• A visit to Iris Stubbs Primary School where the Governor spoke with children and answered questions.

• A public meeting where the Governor spoke about the prospects for TCI in 2012, the Milestones, his and the TCIG’s priorities, and held a Q&A session with the local community.

The statement noted that the visit reinforced the importance the Governor places on the family islands.

Sufficiency hearings postponed Defence lawyers of the 11 persons who were expected to appear in court on Friday for the sufficiency hearings have requested additional time to prepare for the hearing, citing the need for time to review the many documents involved.

The 11 persons, however, made an appearance to sort out preliminary matters including bail extensions.

Those charged, following a probe by the Special Investigative Prosecution Team (SIPT) into the wrong doings of the disbanded locally elected government, include.

1. Former PNP minister Floyd Hall; 2. Former PNP minister Jeffery Hall; 3. Former PNP minister Lillian

Boyce; 4. Former PNP minister Samuel Been; 5. Floyd Hall’s wife, Lisa Hall; 6. Floyd Hall’s brother, Quinton Hall; 7. Lillian Boyce’s brother, Earlson Robinson; 8. Developer Richard Padgett; 9. Developer Jak Civre; 10.

Jeffery Hall’s attorney, Melbourne Wilson; and 11. Thomas Chalmers ‘Chal’ Misick, brother of former Premier Michael Misick.

Attorney-at-law and leader of the PNP Clayton Greene, who was arrested earlier this month, is expected to return to the SIPT offices on February 7th.

Viewpoint

Selling tripe for prime rib

By Ben Roberts (Ben Roberts is a Turks & Caicos Islander. He is a newsletter editor, freelance writer, published author, and member of TC FORUM. He is the author of numerous articles that have been carried by a variety of Internet websites and read worldwide. He is often published in Turks & Caicos news media, and in the local newspapers where he resides. His action adventure novel, Jackals of Samarra, is available at Amazon.com, and at major Internet book outlet sites. Contact him at: grandt730@aol.com)

I

s it not absolutely astounding how dodgy and disingenuous the British are in their governance of Turks & Caicos? They use a combination of Napoleon’s ‘Animal Farm’ brook-no-dissent tactics to push through what they want in some cases, while in other situations they pass themselves off as reasonable ‘enlightened despots’ who are altruistic and accommodating in allowing us citizens of this Territory to chart our own path as they selflessly assist, having our prime interests at heart. If we buy the latter of this two-faced personality then we are doomed to buy anything. And if we sit down and allow them to hammer us down with the former ‘because-I-say-so’ style then we do not deserve to call Turks & Caicos our home. Period! In centuries past Boadicea fought the machine-like Roman Legion for her British homeland, Andrew Jackson and his ragtag army of misfits fought and destroyed the impressive British Redcoats in the Battle of New Orleans that was crucial to American independence, Osceola and the Seminoles in Florida went undefeated battling the US army, the maroons in Jamaica went undefeated battling the British Redcoats, and right next door to us Toussaint defeated the most impressive force of its time in Napoleon and the French army. So what is it we are prepared to fight for? Will we do what we always do? Sit around, talk up a storm, gripe about our situation, give someone ’a piece of our mind’ anonymously, and undermine each other while manipulative men in suits from across the ocean come to tell us, and force down our throat, what is ’in our best interests.’ Can we allow this?

Granted, we are not talking about physically violent ‘wait-till-you-see-the-whites-of-their-eyes’ classic battles anymore, as in centuries past. The battles are now in, and between, the minds. These battles are based on ‘who we are‘, ‘what we are,’ and ‘what we will stand for.’ The Arab spring shows this. By the way, during the ‘Arab Spring’ uprising in Egypt’s Tahrir Square, British Prime Minister David Cameron demanded that Mubarak provide more democracy and freedoms to his people. Yet ‘agents’ from his same British Government, called ’advisors and ‘Overseers,’ are in T&C and London talking nonsense about ’milestones’ and deciding on our right to free choice and ability to chart own our future. What a total lack of credibility. Here’s some of the tripe being sold to citizens of T&C: • That the SIPT corruption prosecutions and investigations stand alone and are not controlled or influenced by the Executive arm of the UK or T&C Interim Government. If this is the case then how is it that with the recent arrest of Mr. Clayton Greene it was the Governor’s Office and its spokesman who provided the particulars in a press release. What a dumb slipup! Or is it that the British could care less who sees through their fog of deception. The editor of TCIPOST was beside himself in correctly and sharply pointing this out in the January 17, 2012 article titled: ‘Leader of one of the political parties in TCI arrested by SIPT.’ T&C citizens should take note.

• Hon Henry Bellingham in Parliamentary questioning on the matter of T&C revealed that there had been allotted something like $6 million dollars of discretionary spending for our Territory and about $4.5 million of that had been used to date for the SIPT prosecution efforts. What a rip-off! At the outset it was made clear that Britain would pay for the prosecution expenses in this corruption debacle. So then Britain tells the world, with trumpets blaring that they are helping their ‘Dependency’ with set-aside aid worth millions. Only the money does not go to the Territory.

No. It goes as payment and accrued expenses to their people sent there to conduct the investigations that they agreed to underwrite. In other words back to the UK. And this is transparency? And this is high principle?

Highway robbery! Mrs. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson rightly pointed this out. T&C citizens should take note of what she said.

• The British are proposing to absorb NIB into their Trojan horse creation called NHIP. NIB was an agency created by T&C and it citizens alone, to ensure a retirement/health/welfare safety net for its population for their later years. It did quite well. At times it was foolishly dipped into by previous governments and, if reports are correct, was used most recently to shore up T&C Interim Govt in periods of shortfall when it was unable to pay Civil Servants. Now the British are proposing to absorb this locally grown, fairly healthy financial entity into their foreign, suspect, and underperforming NHIP, that no one wants? Absolutely not! ‘It should die its own death,’ as Mrs. CartwrightRobinson also rightly stated. T&C citizens should take note. If we allow this con then we have no one to blame but ourselves if we have nothing at day’s end.

• Presently we see British Parliamentarian Hon Andrew Rosindell calling for a revised relationship between Britain and its Territories. His novel idea is that these Territories be represented in the British Parliament. A very thoughtful, progressive, and ground-breaking idea that is long overdue. Hats of to the good Hon MP right? But wait. Hold your horses!

Suppose it was found out that the idea is not Hon Rosindell’s, and that he most definitely got it from somewhere else? From a lowly citizen from one of those Territories? Maybe from a Turks & Caicos Islander? Well no more guessing. Place your cursor over the highlighted link and hold CTRL button while left clicking your mouse to see the article: Serious concerns regarding Turks & Caicos following British intervention. It is a document that was sent all the way back in 2010, during the period of March 5 thru 25, to the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) and Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee (FAC).

The email lists the recipients. All top decision-makers in the FAC and FCO. It most definitely ended up in the hands of T&C All Party Chair, Hon Rosindell, who now seems to champion it is an original idea. The piece clearly makes the call, in point#1 of the longer term issues section, that Turks & Caicos be represented in the British Parliament. Here we see who the idea author is. Is there not something called ‘proprietary information’ and ‘intellectual property?’ Please read!!

How disappointing. While claiming to want improved relations with their Territories, the British cannot even bring themselves to rightfully acknowledge progressive ideas and thoughts of their counterparts in those Territories. How can we have any kind of relationship with an Overseeing Power and its lead decision-makers who think in this stifling manner? T&C citizens should take note.

Though it might be difficult, it is high time the British were made to understand that their concept of Governors in Territories ruling by decree, British Overseers and representatives in these locales who cannot be found to be at fault no matter what, and subjects of those Territories who are always suppar, suspect, and have next to nothing to add to the colonial relationship, are about as outdated and useless as the Magna Carta and, like this document, should be tossed on the trash heap of history once and for all.

8

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 4 - 10, 2012

NATIONAL

Permanent Secretaries’ profiled – Professionals who bring much to their posts The qualifications of the five newly appointed Permanent Secretaries were release by the TCIG earlier this week; the appointments having been made by the Interim Government to improve the efficiency of the public service.

served as a member of the Ten Year Development Plan Working Group and the National Health Insurance Plan Working Group.

Williams holds Masters and Bachelors degrees in Accounting and an Associate degree in Law, English and Accounting.

a Bachelor of Science Degree, a Certificate in Public Administration and an international Baccalaureate Diploma.

Susan Malcolm

Judith Campbell

Anya Williams

Anya Williams has been assigned to the Ministry of Finance and Economics.

Williams brings to the position effective management, communication, leadership and interpersonal skills; ability to prepare and present clear and concise reports; strong presentation skills; and excellent team-working and multitasking ability. She has a successful track record with completing given assignments on time, works well on her own initiative, welcomes the challenge of problem solving and is versatile and adaptable.

Since 2003, she worked as Budget Director in the Ministry of Finance where, among other things she is responsible for the preparation of the Government’s annual budget and the implementation and monitoring of that budget through monthly analysis of revenue and expenditure. She also oversees the management of 84 functioning departments’ revenue, expenditure and other operations; and ensures the effective utilization of resources as it relates to investment opportunities, repositioning of funds to meet priorities, and program performance. She is one of the principal advisors to the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands on all policy and financial related matters.

Additionally, Williams has also worked as Accountant with Torrin’s Surveys on Grand Turk and Intern with the Turks and Caicos Islands Financial Control Unit Office, also on Grand Turk.

In her career, her major accomplishments include undertaking a successful operations review of the Government, which led to the cancellation, review and re-tendering of services resulting in cost savings in a one year period of over $80 million in 2008/2009.

She also played an active role as a Member of the Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board and through critical review and re-negotiations, was able to rid the body of $8 million in outstanding debt. She also

Clara Gardiner

Ms.Clara Gardiner has been reassigned to Ministry of Border Control and Labour.

She first took up the position as Permanent Secretary in this Ministry in August 2009. This after a six-year stint as PS in the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture.

Gardiner had earlier served for one year, from 2002, as the Under Secretary in the Education Ministry.

She worked with the Department of Education from 1999, first as Education Officer and then from early 2002 as acting Deputy Director.

Ms Gardiner has also worked as a Graduate Teacher and Head of Department at the HJR High School.

A long list of major achievements include, joint coordination for construction of the National Stadium for hosting the 2007 CARIFTA Games.

She also worked on development of the Scholarship Policy and Scholarship Database System, and the production of Strategic and Development Plans in the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture.

In her current Ministry, Ms Gardiner has led its almost completed Business Plan and change programme, the coordination of the Radar Station Project Working Group (targeted for a summer 2012 completion), coordination of the Irregular Migrant Contingency Plan Working Group, clearing of the Permanent Residence Certificate (PRC) backlog and the public consultation on Pathway to Citizenship.

She is also affiliated with the Higher Education Advisory Board, the Culture and Arts Commission, TCI Community College Board of Governors, CXC Administrative and Finance Committee, National Trust and Immigration Board.

Gardiner holds a Master of Science Degree in Training and Human Resource Management,

Simons Primary Schools.

She holds a Masters Degree in Human Resource Management, a Bachelors Degree and a Teaching Diploma.

Judith Campbell has been assigned to the expanded Ministry of Health and Education and brings to this position 20 years of public service management, with particular emphasis on: communication, problem solving, leadership and vision, resource management, service delivery and team building.

She is qualified in Environment Impact Assessments and boasts 10 years experience in reviewing and assessing EIAs for tourism development projects, including the EIA for Carnival Cruise Cruiseship port on Grand Turk and about 50 percent of the hotels on Providenciales.

Her experience also includes development and management of terrestrial and marine parks which involved preparation of management plans, cost recovery and revenue and managing stakeholder relationships.

As the PS in the Ministry of Health and Human Services Campbell is responsible for the management of the TCI health care system, financial and performance management, project development and business cases, and providing high quality advice to the CEO and the Advisory Council.

She also served, between 2006-2009 as PS in the Ministry of Natural Resources, where she provided oversight for the TCI environment, lands and fisheries.

She also served as Director in the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources, providing strategic direction to staff, and managing fisheries, national parks and environment in general. Prior to that Ms Campbell worked as the DECR’s Chief Scientific Officer responsible for design and implementation of resource monitoring plans and appraisal of development projects and EIAs. Ms Campbell also worked as Director of National Parks and Biology Teacher at the Clement Howell High School.

Campbell has Masters degrees in Environmental Law and Policy and Marine Resource and Environmental Management, and a Bachelors degree in Biology.

Assigned to the Ministry of Environment and Home Affairs, Susan Malcolm brings to her new role indepth knowledge of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government and the Policies, Procedures and Guidelines governing the Public Service, having served Government for over 36 years in key strategic positions and having obtained tangible outputs in each area.

Also, Malcolm is well versed in the area of Organisational Development, Strategic Planning, Route Cause Analysis, Process Reengineering, Policy Formulation, Implementation and Evaluation. She has a proven track record of making prudent financial and budgetary decisions and to effectively manage, oversee, coach and mentor staff and delegate authority. She is a devout advocate for Situational Leadership and Emotional Intelligence.

Ms Malcolm is able to conceptualize, propose, develop, implement and evaluate sustainable projects for TCIG. She can also assess and utilize financial, technical and human resources to ensure maximum outputs, and is knowledgeable of the principles of Project Management to plan and organize work for special assignments, projects as well as to meet deadlines.

As Permanent Secretary and Head of the Public Service Commission Secretariat/Office of Public Service Management, she oversees all Human Resource related matters affecting the Public Service and handles grievances as well as provides recommendations, supports the Governor, the Chief Executive Officer, Permanent Secretaries and other staff members on such issues.

She served as Under Secretary in the Ministry of Health from 2002 to 2007 and acted a number of times as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry.

She also worked as Under Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources where she managed the Departments of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) and the Coastal Resources Management Project (CRMP).

Malcolm was an Education Planner in the Ministry of Education where she helped develop a five year Education Plan and Education Database Programme in the 1990’s, and also contributed to the development and production of the first Social Studies Book for the Turks and Caicos Islands. She also worked as Head of the Public Service Commission Secretariat; was a Graduate Teacher at the Helena J. Robinson High School; and a trained teacher at the Ona Glinton and Eliza

Wesley Clerveaux

Wesley Clerveaux has been assigned to the Ministry of Government Support Services which brings together a number of departments currently under the OPSM and Ministry of Works.

Clerveaux is a results oriented, high-energy, hands-on professional with a successful record of accomplishments in Natural Resource Management, Fisheries, training and public relations. He also brings to the position experience in fiscal management, legislative development, strategic planning, policy formulation, ambassadorial relations and customer service with a strong focus on providing the general public, local businesses and international partners with the highest quality of service.

His major strengths include strong leadership, commitment to the principles of good governance, project management, resource mobilization, excellent communication skills, being a strong team player, attention to detail, dutiful respect for compliance in all regulated environments, supervisory skills, budget management and other administrative tasks. He has a thorough knowledge of the current Government structure, roles and practices, and a clear vision to accomplish the Turks and Caicos Government goals.

Since 2005, he has been Director of the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources, where he oversees the overall management, planning and deployment of human and other resources throughout the Department and coordinates the review and development of Strategic Plans for the effective management of Protected Areas across the TCI. Clerveaux also worked as Deputy Director and Chief Conservation Officer, charged primarily with management and development of the fisheries resources and coordinating implementation of surveillance systems and the scientific monitoring programme for fisheries.

In the early stages of his career, Mr. Clerveaux also worked as Scientific Officer in the DECR and Technical Assistant in the Fisheries Department.

He holds a Masters degree in Natural Resources Management, a Bachelors degree in Biological Science and a wide range of specialized certificates.

February 4 - 10, 2012

& CrimeCourt

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Glass Shack man fined for drugs RICHARDO Forbes of Glass Shack was arraigned in Providenciales Magistrates’ Court on January 31 on drug charges and was ordered to pay a fine of $5,000 with an alternative nine months prison term.

He appeared before Chief Magistrate Clifton Warner on the allegations that on January 27 he had 363 grams of cannabis in his possession and that he intended to supply it to others. The drugs carried a street value of $3,630.

It was said that on the date, police officers saw Forbes at Heavin Down Rock with a red duffle bag in his possession.

They approached him and asked what was in the bag.

“Nothing,” Forbes replied.

The officers searched the bag and found the illegal drugs wrapped in plastic bags.

He was arrested and charged.

The charges were laid indictably, which meant that Forbes had a right

to be tried in the Supreme Court by a judge and jury.

However, he also had the option to elect trial in the Magistrates’ Court.

Forbes opted to have his matter dealt with in the lower court and told the Magistrate he was guilty with explanation.

The defendant explained that he had quit smoking two years ago and was just doing someone a favour when they asked him to carry the bag for them.

He tried to lessen his sentence and said that he cooperated fully with the police during their investigations.

He told them that it was not his drugs and even supplied them with the name of the owner.

The accused spoke of his girlfriend and her two kids whom he takes care of.

Forbes said that he is a pest controller but the job does not pay much.

He agreed to pay $150 per week until the fine was paid in full.

Royal Bank of Canada suspects remanded

THREE young men who were fingered in the January 13 robbery at the Royal Bank of Canada on Leeward Highway were arraigned and remanded to jail.

Daniel Been Jr, 22, Odessa Williams, 19, and Darrison Nash aged 20 all appeared before Chief Magistrate Clifton Warner on January 27 in the Providenciales Magistrates’ Court.

They were charged with attempted murder, robbery, conspiracy to rob, carrying firearm with intent to rob, discharging firearm, and discharging ammunition.

The charges were all indictable and so the young men were not called upon to enter a plea.

Been and Williams were represented by attorney Arthur Hamilton while Nash was represented by attorney Mark Fulford.

Attorney General Huw Shepheard

stood for the Crown.

He opposed bail and made an application for non-intimate and intimate DNA samples to be taken from the three defendants to be sent for analysis.

Magistrate Warner agreed and Been, Williams and Nash were escorted to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre where their DNA was collected.

They were then returned to the courthouse where they were remanded to prison without bail until Friday, March 9, when they are scheduled to appear in the Grand Turk Supreme Court for a sufficiency hearing.

Police spokesman Inspector Calvin Chase revealed that another man was charged in connection with this incident and that he is scheduled to appear in court today Friday, February 3.

Hijacked yacht with a dozen men found in TCI waters A COLLABORATIVE effort between members of the TCI Police Marine Division and the US Coast Guard led to the capture of a yacht and its apparent hijackers on February 1.

Marine officers aboard police launch ‘Sea Defender’ worked in conjunction with the US Coast Guard to intercept the blue and

white yacht named ‘Yasmin’ within the territorial waters of the TCI. The yacht had been reported to be the subject of a hijacking in Haitian waters earlier in the day.

Upon intercepting the yacht, 12 males were found aboard and they were all detained pending police investigations.

9

Burglary is the number one crime in the TCI – ways to prevent it

By Samantha Dash DESPITE the TCI police force’s continual battle to stamp out the activities of criminal elements and work toward ensuring safety for all in the islands, burglary remains high on the list of committed crimes in Providenciales.

This can be seen in the frequent police crime recap reports as published by police liaison officer Inspector Calvin Chase.

Between January 26 and February 1, there have been 19 burglaries in Providenciales and one attempted burglary in Barrack Hill Road, Grand Turk.

Did you know that the average burglar will spend less than five minutes trying to break into a residence and even longer to get into a business place?

These facts should encourage persons to employ certain measures to make their home or business a harder target and less enticing to would-be burglars.

Unlike on TV, most burglars do not wear a mask and strike in the dead of night while you are home.

Unless of course, they are armed, then the crime becomes aggravated burglary.

Criminals who are after your property do not want to be caught,

hurt, or identified.

Most burglaries happen during the daytime, and most entries are made through a door and second place is a window.

Remember the greatest weapons in the fight to prevent burglaries are light, time, and noise.

Learn how to protect yourself from burglars. Get a dog. You do not need a large attack dog; even a small dog creates a disturbance that burglars would prefer to avoid.

Remember to license and vaccinate it.

Install some motion-sensitive security lights and alarms if possible.

Inexpensive alarms can be found onisland.

Make sure that all exterior lights are mounted out of reach, so that burglars cannot easily unscrew the bulbs.

Always ensure you lock all doors and windows securely before leaving the premises. Never leave things of value in plain sight, especially in your vehicle.

Make it time-consuming for a burglar to break into your premises by installing deadbolt locks on all exterior doors and iron bars on the windows.

Try to think like a burglar and scout your premises the way a burglar would and look for easy

ways to enter.

Do not leave ladders and tools around your premises, which burglars could use to break in.

However, sometimes our best efforts would not stop a determined burglar. You should always have a back-up plan.

It is wise to take precautions that will help you get your property back should a criminal successfully break into your home.

Make a list of your belongings and be sure to keep receipts, especially for expensive items. Make a habit of updating this list periodically.

Photographing and/or videotaping your possessions are a convenient way to keep a record of what you own.

You can also engrave your valuables with an identifying mark to deter burglary and to prove ownership should the article be stolen and recovered by the police.

And, if you have not done so as yet, purchase a house number.

Display it conspicuously and have it well illuminated. This will help police and emergency personnel find your home quickly.

“Criminals are opportunists and if you create the opportunity then they will react on it,” Inspector Chase said.

Crime is everyone’s business. It could happen to anyone. Do not wait until it happens to you before you do something about it.

Paediatrician donates new wheelchair to disabled boy A KIND and thoughtful gesture by a paediatrician at Cheshire Hall Medical Centre saw a young disabled TC Islander boy sporting a brand new wheelchair.

Nine-year-old Javon McIntosh received the gift at the National Stadium on Thursday, February 2, during the Oseta Jolly Primary School’s sports competition.

The child’s paediatrician Dr Helen Leonard noticed that his wheelchair was very old, broken and dangerous.

The tyres were worn away and the child was forced to push himself by gripping the metal wheels, which had become sharp.

In addition, the seat and wheels were broken and he had outgrown it.

So, she embarked on a mission to secure a new wheelchair for the boy and approached the charitable foundation One World for assistance.

They funded the cost of the wheelchair.

Visiting speech and language expert, Deborah Venditti, ferried the wheelchair in from Canada and it was presented to the child in the presence of his beaming mom, Blonie McIntosh.

“I feel so great. So happy that he

Dr Claire Richardson, Dr Helen Leonard, Blonie McIntosh and Deborah Venditti share a smile with new wheelchair recipient Javon McIntosh

get his wheelchair,” she gushed.

The child was wheelchair bound from the age of six when he was diagnosed with Wilms Tumour, a kidney cancer that typically affects children.

McIntosh attends the Oseta Jolly Primary School and his proud mother revealed that “He is doing

good in school”.

Dr Claire Richardson, a visiting occupational therapist said that One World had a special interest in the TCI for many years now and are funding projects for people to come down, identify and assist children with special needs.

10

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 4 - 10, 2012

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

Good news from government Dear Editor, Given all of the negativity about taxes, unneeded increases, tax increases that have no moral basis, there is some good news coming out of the interim government (will get back to the immorality of tax increases later).

The Labour Department of the Turks and Caicos Islands has now released a new requirement for businesses with employees of over ten persons to detail staff outlines on key positions, list positions held by expat staff and show succession plans for qualified Belongers.

The interesting thing about this is that under the former PNP regime such proactive steps in favour of the people of the TCI was not possible and in fact what the Labour Department is doing now would be outlawed under the PNP regime of Mike Misick.

This step by Michelle Fulford Gardiner, the PS Immigration, Clara Gardiner, is a right move in the right direction.

It means also that instead of Turks and Caicos Islanders, in positions of direct responsibility, wringing their

hands, crying over things that they can cure; these persons are actually doing something.

It was alleged that certain resorts under the former regime were off limits to Labour Department officers.

This development here is critical to the future of the TCI and its people; because now TCI’s can look to the job market with an element of confidence.

The more we see in the revelations that came out in the 2009 public hearings of the commission, one can be convinced that the former government was bought in such a way to sell the people out.

The job market was flooded with cheap labour from all over the world, at wages below the TCI minimum wage, slavery in real terms, cheap and squalid housing.

Over a long term there needs to be a project to bring TCI’s people back into the job market.

One must advocate for a hotel training school and the training of vocational skills.

The reality is that if the Belonger is not trained he or she will not be able to compete for the job market.

The TCI’s job market is globalised because TC Islanders are competing with skills from all over the world.

The reality is that TCI’s people cannot ignore the admonitions from flowery graduation speeches to work hard, be dedicated, have the right attitude, develop a mind-set of perfection, diligence and go that extra mile.

These are words, ideas and concepts that go through one ear and the next. For better or for worse this is no longer possible.

Employers, demands, deadlines, the market place are all seeking skilled, hardworking, training and dedicated workers.

It means that the flowery speeches are relevant and must be heeded.

It is also true that Belongers will not get the job if they are not prepared for the job.

The steps taken by the Labour Department should now go to police the system where non-Belongers are preselected for the job and there is now confidence that they are trying to create a level playing field.

Taxes are coming back to bite us all. It hurts the most those persons

who have lived here under the former regime and did not really make anything.

Part of this was owing to the selling out of TCI residents in the job market for monies under the table going to former ministers.

The taxes are also bad because at this point the census has just begun and the numbers will now come in to enable the government to have information to “plan” with.

It meant that in the absence of census numbers, government was not in a real position to make labour policy, plan tax measures etc, because at best no one in the government could gauge their impact.

One can only say that the taxes are being imposed to pay for stupidity committed by the former government in selling the TCI out, running up the huge debt and handing this country over to developers.

In all of that mix, the labour market and the TCI residents were severely compromised.

At these measures of creating something for the Belongers by the

Ask for forgiveness Dear Editor, I was shocked when I read the response form Mrs Lillian Misick regarding the cancelled meeting at the Grace Way Sports Centre.

First of all the chairlady of the Consultative Forum should ask the people of the TCI for forgiveness instead of siding against us in this matter.

Secondly Mrs Misick was blatantly reckless in her statement and woefully ill-informed of the true nature of what happened.

It is quite sad and discouraging that Mrs Misick is so busy trying to insult locals that she is unable to find time to come up with a comprehensive solution to empower Belongers and protect the indigenous population of these islands for government debt shackling.

The statement made by the chairlady underscores two characteristics that continue to manifest throughout her tenure in the interim administration.

The chairlady has certainly lost her way, and this tirade proves that she is out of touch.

Since her appointment Mrs Misick has never fully managed to put the good of this nation before her own self-promotion.

What has she done so far to help the people of the TCI? What has she done to elevate the standards of housing and healthcare and provide jobs for the people of these islands?

What has she done to amplify the cry of the weak and helpless?

What has she done for the poor and oppressed?

The majority of the faces of our indigenous people are marred with hopelessness and despair.

Decent hard working TCI men have been reduced to hustling from odd job to odd job, begging for an opportunity to keep roofs over their family’s heads.

LETTERS SHOULD BE KEPT TO A MAXIMUM OF 450 WORDS

Single mothers cry out in anguish as they must decide between lunch for their children or a jitney fare to get them to school.

Every day scores of families are plunged into darkness because there is no money to pay the ever rising utility bills.

Let’s face it if madam chair does not know our people are broke, our pockets are empty and our standards of living are steadily declining, the ankles of the people of the TCI are shackled to despair.

Our feet are being re-shackled to slavery, not physical slavery but financial and governmental slavery.

Under the interim government our people have lost their importance in society and our children have lost their promise.

The belligerent mob the chairlady spoke of included, a former ELECTED Speaker of the Legislative Council (the Council is

now deceased), a former ELECTED Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Education, teachers, accountants, business owners and a major contractor among others.

The group she called a mob represented a hardworking cross section of our society.

The chairlady has never held elected office; she has never served this country via the expressed will of the majority.

She is a selected leader and has absolutely no moral authority to call distinguished former politicians belligerent; she has never enjoyed the authority that these men had.

The very process of her appointment was tainted and goes against every democratic principal known to men.

My position on the expansion of the franchise, which has been cleverly renamed Pathway to Citizenship, is that we, the Belongers, must be the ones and the only ones to chart the

Labour Commissioner and the PS is good.

So despite these silly, unneeded, patchwork taxes, the decision to have businesses in excess of ten employees show staffing plans is good.

Businesses can also show the government what their issues, their problems and challenges are in real predictable format where results can be reached.

Truly some of the businesses do not just want to hire non-Belongers.

They would prefer the Belongers because of their savings, in housing, plane tickets, work permit fees etc, and the greater injection to the economy would expand most businesses keeping buying power local.

Where these problems persist, both sides now can meet and the Labour Department can now get a real grasp of what it takes to make a dollar in this country.

This forum should be continued and enhanced for the future because only good can come out of this new dialogue.

Samsune Taylor

way forward. And that’s that.

Like the process of the chairlady’s appointment, the very process of Pathway to Citizenship is seriously flawed and dangerously tainted.

The only proper way to determine the process of enlarging our franchise is via a referendum on citizenship.

For far too long our people have been beating their gums in vain at the sports centre while the real decisions are being made in Grace Bay. To my fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders, especially those who stood with me on the night of January 26, 2012, I leave you with the encouragement found in Psalm 23: “Yea though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we fear no evil, for the Lord is with us.”

May God’s blessings ever flow and may our people ever know that he is God. Amen.

Devon Williams

Please note that all submissions are subject to editing in keeping with defamation laws and newspaper style. Letters should be accompanied by the author’s full name, location and phone number. Names will be withheld if requested.

February 4 - 10, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Letters

Violation of labour and immigration laws Dear Editor, A number of well-established Indian businessmen came to these islands from different parts of the Caribbean, but originally from India.

The American tax-free dollar, the legal currency of the Turks and Caicos, attracted them to these peaceful, beautiful by nature islands, like the Hindu Goddess Lakshmi (Goddess of wealth).

These magnetic islands caught some and from rags they came to riches.

According to Turks and Caicos Immigration Laws, two thirds of the work force must be from the Belonger population in foreign business establishments, train the local work force for middle management posts within the three years, but not a single TCI is in those work forces.

What is happening to our labour and immigration laws? Where are the law enforcement officers to check how laws are enforced?

Without a single Turks and Caicos Islander on the work force, how will they train local people for middle management positions?

Myself and Mr Clifford Wilson of Salt Cay, a created, gifted writer

and poet and a high school graduate of Turks and Caicos High School in Grand Turk visited those Indian establishments to find employment for him.

He is an active and able person having various skills who is able to do the sort of work in those establishments, but he might not work more than eight hours a day.

Mr Wilson was denied, refused and turned down the opportunity because he is not Indian.

Unfortunately he is born a Turks and Caicos Islander and he only speaks English. I only speak the truth and the truth is always bitter.

I strongly hope that the His Excellency, Governor Damian Roderic Rodd, the Attorney General, Mr Huw Shepheard and Chairman of the Consultative Forum, Mrs Lillian Missick and other members, as well as the Human Rights Commissioner and the labour and immigration enforcement authorities can understand the present dire employment situation.

Yours sincerely, Dr G M Rao TCI’s first Hindu and Indian Belonger

11

Must We Keep the Pressure on the Governor? A resounding yes!

TCIs, Readers and Friends, Turks and Caicos Islanders forget so easily! Or, are we such a forgiving country, that it is assumed whatever is done to us, TCIs, it does not matter, and life goes as usual.

For instance:

• The closing of the bank, status, nothing; • Closing of EMS, status, nothing; • White/Right-sizing of civil servants, status, unreasonable proposals, now nothing; • Improperly selection of the PSs, status, Fab Five now appointed, and now nothing; • Closing of TCInvest, status, nothing; • Proposed selling-off/closing of airport , status, withdrawn, now

nothing; and • New knowledge of TCIG being UK financed to tune of $417 million, status, new Newly announced further postponement of elections, status, uncertain and, nothing.

Did I hear the AG will manage “lands”? Status, nothing.

An all out attack on all of our infra structures it seem, status, nothing Can we afford to allow this form of destruction to continue?

No, but we are doing anything about it? Yes, one-liner add-on complaints. All talk and no walk.

Throwing the stone and hiding the hand, to ensure identity is preserved.

But that mode can not continue, we must re-act and enact, now!

The Governor has taken TCIs

for granted, and he thinks we are all smoke and no fire. TCIs, we must show him better; and show him, now!

Do individuals know that, “government” stamp employees can work only one job, and that is for the government; full-time or part-time, only one job! There are countless number of workers on jobs with their work-permits being held by another.

So if the Governor wants to help TCIs, that is a good place to address!

Must We Keep the Pressure on the Governor?

A resounding yes!

For and on behalf of, We Must Stand Now Signed, but request that name with-held

Let justice prevail At its annual session held in 2011, in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, The Bahamas/ Turks & Caicos Islands Conference expressed its grave concern about the welfare of all our brothers and sisters in the Turks and Caicos Islands, in light of developments in the political, economic, social and moral spheres of human activity.

We stressed the urgent need for the return of Representative Government by giving a more definite time line for meeting the targets set by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Great Britain.

Regrettably, the situation has worsened. We therefore again note the following:

1.

The negative impact on the financial situation; 2. The negative impact on the social services causing hardship on the under privileged, marginalized, children and elderly; 3. The escalation of tension and the increase in crime; and 4. The negative perception of the country as a whole.

We reiterate our call upon the powers that be to work with the church and community to ensure that justice prevails throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.

We note that elections are scheduled for both The Bahamas and the Turks & Caicos Islands this year.

We pray that they are peaceful and

conducted in keeping with the rule of law and democratic principles.

Violence and character assassination should be discouraged at all costs.

When the elections are over, the peoples of these islands must live in love and unity under God. “Let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream.” (Amos 5:24) Bishop Derek C.O. Browne Rev. Edward J. Sykes President of the Conference (The Bahamas/ Turks & Caicos Islands Conference)

COMMENTARY

Rocket science and immigration

Let me acknowledge up front I was not born in the TCI but Yvette, my wife was, in the heart of it all, Middle Caicos. I was born in Ohio the heart of America. My family was tenant farmers we did not have electricity or paved roads.

Dad plowed with a horse and my family fondly remembered those years on the farm decades after we moved to the city. Caicos Islanders fondly remember farming and fishing but they now live in Provo or Grand Turk. We do share similar backgrounds.

When I attended high school the school was proud to be full of immigrant students from 45 different nations! We flew all their flags on special occasions.

By David Tapfer Despite the diversity we all spoke English and the student’s families tried extra hard to be assimilated into the American culture.

America needed those people, the immigrants. They legally arrived according to quota, displaced by the world war to become contributing citizens

of an American nation full of manufacturing jobs.

Inward immigration set in motion the building of roads, houses, schools and more business. Boom years.

Socialist politicians of later years borrowed money by the trillions, raised taxes and over regulated business Now, when I visit Ohio we see abandoned houses, business and manufacturing facilities now empty as the tumble weeds blow through.

Cleveland and Detroit, the engines of an economy that needed immigrants now look like Lorimers.

Empty buildings everywhere.

TCI under Bigger-Better had it backwards. Borrow money, grow government to unsustainable levels and fill the private sector

with foreign workers not immigrants. If all those foreign workers were immigrants settling here they would not be sending their wages home to build up a stake for when they depart our shores. If the laborers were immigrants they would be building houses, buying building materials, TVs, cars and gas. The economy would be growing. Now to nail the coffin shut Britain introduces the British social model, high taxes and regulations. Bureaucrats hard at work eroding an economy in stress.

My wife Yvette contributed to the American economy as a nurse.

After 10 years she was invited to become a US citizen. She was examined for her knowledge of US history and was accepted. We

have numerous foreign teachers in TCI who do not know TCI history and have every intention of going home.

The path to citizenship must not be hindered with exorbitant fees and prejudices. That is what the socialists thrive on. It must not be easy either. In life whatever is worth while is not easy.

Creating rules for the path to belongership is not rocket science. Look at what works and what does not. We have had 7 consultations and numerous debates and its time to stop the socialcratic bureaucratic nonsense and just get it done.

Lillian, Sharlene, Dr.Linda, Ethlyn and Courtny you are fully able to put rules together without further consultation.

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February 4 - 10, 2012

NATIONAL

Righting the wrongs – Mangrove restoration and the battle to combat climate change

BY VANESSA NARINE

having lost up to 80 per cent.

The expected 4.2-degree rise on global temperature during the first half of the century will raise sea levels by 15 to 30 cm by 2040 and estimates from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) indicates that global sea levels are expected to rise by at least 1.5 metres by 2100.

Some estimates give a higher figure for the Caribbean region, which means no good news for the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI).

The Caribsave Climate Change Risk Atlas (CCCRA) study, published last December, uncovered that even the smallest rise in sea level could wipe out a large proportion of TCI’s beaches, with Grand Turk’s sea fronts being most at risk.

According to the study, a sea level rise of 0.5m would see more than half of the beach area in Grand Turk lost; the West Shore would be reduced by 53 per cent and the historic Cockburn Town by 65 per cent The impending devastation of lives and economy that is mainly tourism based draws attention to the vulnerability of tropical ecosystems and the dangers of undermining the services these provide to humankind.

This is where the mangroves come in and the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR), which collaborated with the CCCRA on their latest study, has undertaken massive restoration of TCI’s mangroves.

Curator of the DECR’s Environmental Centre, Ms. Lormeka Williams, told the Weekly News that the department is attempting to right the wrongs in the eco-system with the restoration of the mangroves.

Official reports indicate that mangrove ecosystems currently cover 146,530 km of the tropical shorelines of the world. This represents a decline from 198,000 km of mangroves in 1980, and 157,630 km in 1990. These losses represent about two per cent per year between 1980 and 1990, and one per cent per year between 1990 and 2000.

An estimated 35 per cent of the world’s original mangrove cover has already gone, with some countries

Mangroves serve to:

• Shield inland areas since they dampen wave action; • Trap sediments and break down pollutants; • Serves as a source of food for fish, shrimp and crabs that live in shallow areas of the ocean; • Provide homes and nurseries for many animals, primarily fishes and other marine life; • Link sea-grasses and coral reefs through chemical, biological, physical and migratory activities; and importantly • Have the potential to sequester tonnes of carbon per hectare annually, increasing their importance in the climate change fight.

“What we do is grow the mangrove seedlings and transplant there where development has damaged the mangroves or where they are wilting on their own,” Williams said.

Ongoing for a number of years now, the mangrove restoration effort has been done near Venetian Road and Wheeland Pond, among other locations.

The Curator noted that as it relates to the sustainability of the mangroves, the response from the community has been encouraging.

“They know the importance of the work we do, especially the coastal communities,” she said.

Williams explained that schools and other non-governmental organizations have also been involved in the restoration effort.

“Students have come to the department and have worked with us as part of internships where they study matters connected to mangrove restoration…we have had groups like MerAngel that have also contribute significantly to the overall restoration effort,” she said.

Marine Biologist and founder of MerAngle, Marsha Pardee, explained that some 236 mangroves were planted around the perimeter of the spoil pile known as ‘Star Island’, an undertaking that has been successful.

The group worked in collaboration with the Caribbean Wildlife Foundation (CWF), which is currently rolling out the ‘Adopt a Mangrove Climate Change and

Prep work prior to transplanting from the trays included using moistened clothes to wrap around the root bundles to keep them from drying out.

Volunteers planting mangroves on the southern side of Star Island Spoils (photos courtesy of the CWF)

Restoration Campaign’.

Under that programme, the approximate 200 small mangroves that have been planted on Star Island are up for ‘adoption’ by persons interested in supporting

the restoration effort who, with a donation of $25, will assist in supporting the continuation of the restoration effort.

The Turks and Caicos Islands economy relies primarily on tourism

and fisheries and these sectors, being intrinsically linked to the natural environment, will ultimately suffer if the wrongs are not righted and the battle to combat climate change is ignored.

February 4 - 10, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

13

NATIONAL

Rotary District Governor, Dr. Guy Theodore, left, with President of Provo’s Rotary Club, Owen Hamilton

Rotary Board Members in discussions with the District Governor, Dr. Guy Theodore, left.

Community must be able to identify with local clubs, Rotary District Governor – Urges Providenciales Rotary Club to prepare for the future Rotary District Governor, Dr. Guy Theodore, during a visit to Provo’s Rotary Club last week, stressed the need for communities to be able to identify with the local group and urged that membership makeup be used to inspire a keener sense of belonging among more people in the community.

Speaking to the Weekly News, Theodore said, “The challenge is to have some new members…

Rotary is a group of professionals, not elites and we must be open so that the community does not see us that way. Anybody in this community, a person of respectability, can become a

member.”

The District Governor stressed that this is the only way for the community to be able to identify with the local Rotary Club.

He said, “Doing service is not enough. Getting the people in the Rotary Club, that is when they people will feel part of what is happening and take ownership of the initiatives undertaken by the Club.”

Theodore added that this is part of the many moves being addressed by the Club’s leaders to ensure that the Rotary Club becomes more vibrant and is able to better fulfill its mandate.

HIV/AIDS 14th Annual Inter- High School Debate The youth got a chance to have their say on the ongoing threat of HIV/AIDS when the National AIDS Program/HIV Prevention Unit hosted its 14th annual HIV/AIDS Inter High School debate, last Thursday, under the theme ‘Getting to zero, Community participation towards Eradication’ at the Felix Morley Community Centre.

The six participating schools were British West Indies Collegiate, Champions for Christ, Helena Jones Robinson High School, Maranatha High School, Marjorie Basden High

School and Turks and Caicos Institute for Professional Studies (TCIPS) Comprehensive High School.

The moot debated was ‘Be it resolved: It is the Community’s Civic Duty to participate in the Eradication of HIV’.

This year’s winning school was the TCIPS Comprehensive School, followed by Helena Jones Robinson High in 2nd place and the Marjorie Basden High School in 3rd place. The Best Speaker award went to Tochukwu Otuonye of the Helena Jones Robinson High School.

New Face According to him, in 2013 the Rotary Club will change its face.

“We want to attract more young people…we want to make use of the technological age and use the means that are out there to bring in the young people. For example, if you are in Grand Turk and there is a meeting in Provo then you can still participate in that meeting,” he said.

The District Governor maintains that times are changing and the Rotary Club must change too, it must adapt to fulfill its mandate in an everchanging environment.

“The Provo Rotary Club, they are doing well…the Club’s mandate

is to serve the community and they are doing that. They are doing a lot of projects that pertain to the advancement of the community; in schools and beaches and the bus stop,” he said.

In an invited comment, President of Provo’s Rotary Club, Mr. Owen Hamilton, stated that 2011 was a difficult year, particularly in terms of recruiting members due to the economic downturn.

“We had a hard year with our membership, some people left Provo and others stopped attending…this year what we have been doing is strengthening the club by raising our membership,” he said.

According to him, meetings that have been held so far this year have been well attended by members who are contributing to the club’s

advancement.

When asked about the impending changes to further improve the Rotary Club, Hamilton stated that some moves have already been made in advancing to the technological age.

“We have now what is an e-Rotary Club, where members can log on and fellowship there…if you weren’t able to attend a meeting you log on and you will be able to still feel like you contributed,” he said.

Hamilton maintains that this year’s watchwords are ‘Reaching Within’ and much effort is being put into the overall improvement of the local Rotary Club.

The Object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise, among other ideals.

A great experience The Turks and Caicos National Trust launched a campaign Thursday, which highlights Eco-tourism in the country, particularly, enticing our guests, visitors and residents to explore our wetlands and diverse wildlife.

The World Wetlands Day is an annual recurring event that provides attention on the benefits and fragility of the world’s wetlands and every February 2nd, activities are organised worldwide to raise public awareness of wetlands’ value and benefits and promote the conservation and wise use of wetlands.

A news release noted that brochures entitled ‘Turks & Caicos Islands: An Ecological Haven’ and leaflets, were be distributed to the

different hotels and at the arrival section on Provo Airport starting Thursday.

The leaflets will include information on the different activities guests can engage in, such as kayaking, bird watching tours and visiting national parks.

The statement noted that while activities commence on February 2nd, the ecological experience will be highlighted for a whole month, culminating on March 2nd.

“The National Trust is grateful to the support extended by the Turks & Caicos Tourist Board and the Turks & Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA). The Tourist Board generously donated the brochures and TCHTA is helping to

promote our wetland adventures,” the release said.

This year’s theme is ‘Wetlands and Tourism, a tie-up which, could bring immense benefits - stronger economies, sustainable livelihoods, healthy people and thriving ecosystems’.

World Wetlands Day is about appreciating the vital role wetlands play in our ecosystems and protecting them. It is worth noting that tourism is only one of the services that wetlands deliver. Ensuring well-managed tourism practices in and around wetlands and educating tourists on the value of wetlands contributes to the health of the world’s wetlands and the long-term benefits that wetlands provide to people, wildlife, economics, and biodiversity.

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February 4 - 10, 2012

NATIONAL

Health sector’s major stride The announcement of a major Joint Replacement programme on Grand Turk last week is

being hailed as a major step forward for the TCI health sector and Permanent Secretary

Congratulations Naromie

We would like to congratulate Naromie Sagesse, for completing her course at the Magsaysay institute of culinary arts in the Philippines.

With diplomas in: Pastry making, International Cuisine, and F&B Management.

Coming from your family & friends We are proud of you and pray you continue to soar and follow you dreams. Only you can stop you.

TeAnn Thomas along with President & Vice-Chancellor of Mount Saint Vincent University Dr. Ramona Lumpkin (left) and Chancellor of Mount Saint Vincent University Sister Donna Geernaert (right).

Congrats TeAnn

Best wishes to TeAnn Thomas who graduated from the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College as the ‘Most Outstanding Student in 2010 and is a recipient of a TCIG scholarship.

In January of 2011, she enrolled in Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, Canada to pursue a degree in Economics.

In November of last year, TeAnn was recognized by the Committee on Undergraduate Admissions along with other Mount Saint Vincent University Scholars at the Annual Scholars Luncheon, where the President and faculty of Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, Canada recognized her for scholarly achievements along with other recipients. Scholars were also pinned with Mount Saint Vincent University Scholar pins. This came as a result of her performance in the 2011 Winter semester where she attained a 3.75 GPA. TeAnn currently has a GPA of 4.0.

TeAnn has made her family proud and by extension the Ministry of Education. Her parents Blythe Clare and William Thomas would like to publicly CONGRATULATE their daughter on a successful year at Mount Saint Vincent University.

‘TO God Be the Glory!’

Send your special occasion to: Weekly News, Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, PO Box 52, Providenciales or email to tcweeklynews@gmail.com. Free of Charge!

Please limit your messages to 150 words.

in the Ministry of Health Judith Campbell lauded the effort.

In a news release, Campbell said, “This initiative is consistent with solutions being put forward to address some of the challenges in the TCI health care system. A recent assessment of Health Care Funding Challenges by the Ministry identified high cost of overseas medical treatment among the major concerns. These operations demonstrate the high quality treatment which can be provided right here in these islands; and also allows persons to recuperate in comfort of their home and family.”

The statement added that the Ministry congratulates the management of Interhealth Canada, adding that it will continue to build on this advance with the aim of making the TCI a major medical treatment centre for overseas clients and to develop its revenue potential in health tourism.

The programme was launched as a pilot to gauge TCI’s potential to develop Medical Tourism in Orthopedics and Major Joint Replacement. This initial batch of patients are however all TCI residents who would have been treated overseas before this initiative, expanding the range of health services to residents and helping the health sector realize it cost saving goals.

According to the statement, Chief executive of InterHealth Canada (TCI), Dr Roger Cheesman, said, “The provision of total knee replacement surgery within the Turks and Caicos is another example of the efforts of many to bring on shore what had previously only been available overseas.

“This is a very cost efficient way of providing high caliber treatment to islanders and ensuring that the surgery is conducted in their homeland and close to family and friends.

“The project has been in planning for some considerable time and has involved not just InterHealth and surgeons, Global MedChoices, but also the NHIP team and TCIG representatives. Our thanks go to all who have contributed to this programme.

“Our best wishes go to those patients who are now able to be more mobile as a result of the work that has been conducted in both the background and in theatre.

“Special thanks to all those who have worked with Dr Bresch and his team and cared for the patients pre and post operatively as well as during the course of surgery.”

autism awareness

By Nicole Cox, a mother living with autism

Josiah, aged four

“Say that again?”

Once children get to a certain level of understanding, there is no greater irritation than having to issue the same directive over and over again.

Last week I probably stepped on a few toes (including my own) by emphasizing the importance of following any directive with action if the directive is not followed. This may mean a whole lot of walking after the talking in the course of a day! Hey, at least you will lose about 5 lbs from all the action you will get with the kids, right? Well, it gets better! Just because you followed this procedure today, does NOT mean you won’t have to do it again tomorrow. Or the day after! The challenging aspect in this method of teaching compliance is when your child does not seem to get it (or want to get it)! How many times to do you have to repeat this before it sinks in?

The answer is that there is no telling how many times or on how many different tasks you will have to apply this method. When you are dealing with a child with a developmental delay or even a neurotypical child who is just stubborn, I have found it most beneficial to assume from the moment you give the directive that they WILL NOT comply. I have already planned in my head that I am going to have to follow this up. I have already calculated the levels of resistance I may receive and have come up with my contingency plans. From teaching a new skill to reinforcing an old one, the parent/teacher must be prepared to contain a situation before it happens. Now, I know that may sound a bit pessimistic to some. But it is far from that! It is simply assuming that anything I ask of the child will have to be taught or reinforced. It is assuming that I will have to work for the result I want from the child.

The goal is to repeat the action with the child so that the directive need only be issued once.

This mentality can do many things for the adult/child relationship.

It lowers the adult probability for frustration if the child cannot or will not comply. It establishes a means by which the adult can objectively measure the child’s progress. It simplifies the process for the adult when they have already established what responses will or will not be accepted and what will be done about them. All that leads to a more manageable time. For the child, the fact that the adult has a plan establishes an environment of boundaries. Boundaries build trust. The child will realize that no matter what is thrown at the adult, that adult is always in control and is consistent. The child will come to rely on that dependability, especially since the thoughts and emotions of a child (disability notwithstanding) fluctuate so rapidly. They will also develop lower stress levels at being asked to perform new skills as they KNOW you will teach it to them if necessary. Not to mention realizing that even the tasks they despise MUST be done. That builds character.

Wow! There’s a plus! Many don’t think about their special needs child building character. But, it can be done. It must be done. This is not a kind world to the imperfect. The more obvious the imperfection, the more cruel society can be. For both you and your child unbreakable character will be needed to face the challenges of tomorrow. With each level of learning mastered there is a level of character responsible for the learning. This is the burden and the blessing of the ABA lifestyle.

For more information on autism email: DawnProgram@gmail.com Next Week: “Why Madame! Is That a Bribe?”

February 4 - 10, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

15

NATIONAL

this week

Friday, February 3 to Friday, February 11 Friday, February 3  Danny Buoy’s is Provo’s premier live music and sports destination, serving lunch and dinner daily from 11:30am.

It is the perfect place to escape from the heat and hang with friends, all in smoke free air-conditioned comfort.

Happy Hour specials from 4-7pm Monday-Saturday

are held every Saturday at Graceway Sports Centrefor mothers and their little ones.

Mothers, bring your little ones to dance, jump, twist and shake! Children have fun learning movement basics to fun music and mums get a light exercise while spending quality time. Mums and Tots classes begin at 10am and cost just $10. Dads are welcome!

Call Shara Bowen on 244-1103 for more details.

Thursday, February 9

From left, Laurence Campbell, Mark Parrish, Danny , Sarah, JD, Philip Shearer, Susan Butterfield and Cardinal Arthur

Keeping TCI’s distinct tourist attraction alive – Big Blue awards locals for going the extra mile

BY VANESSA NARINE Tourists are forever being enticed by that distinct feature that pulls them to a particular destination and Big Blue, at the end of January, awarded six locals who have been instrumental in keeping that TCI’s distinct attraction alive – its culture.

Laurence Campbell called ‘Mac’, Cardinal Arthur, Johnston Dee Thomson called ‘JD’, David Forbes, Sarah Kaufman and Susan Butterfield were recognized for going the extra mile to couple the attraction of eco-tourism and local culture.

The eco-tourism company’s Mark Parrish told the Weekly News that the services tourists are able to access is largely owing to a team effort and the locals have contributed significantly by providing tourists with a cultural experience.

“This is an invaluable aspect of our tours,” he said.

Distinct Parrish explained that each awardee is a part of a process that gives tourist that a taste of what makes the Big Blue tours as distinct as it is.

“Mac and Cardinal are our guides and they handle transportation, but what they do is more than just take the tourist around and show them the sights. They get immersed and excited about what they do as they

tell the people about the island’s history and culture,” he said.

He pointed out too that Mac is currently training others to act as guides.

“JD handles our bikes and kayaks and that sort of thing; things that are low impact on the environment, but still give tourists what they are looking for,” Parrish said.

JD has been supporting Big Blue’s remote and roving eco-tourism base in North Caicos for over a decade.

Parrish noted too, the enterprising persistence of Sarah Kaufman, who is with the Middle Caicos Co-op, has yielded much success.

“What she does is help keep handicraft on the island alive because she makes a guaranteed market available for the local products,” Parrish said.

According to him, the Co-Op takes the craft items from the locals, which they pay up front for; rather than pay when the producers after the items are sold.

“What would happen is that stores would buy from US producers and have to pay in front, but when it comes to the local producers they want to pay after the craft items are sold. That is not fair,” he said.

Parrish maintained that the CoOp, which is not self-sufficient non-profit group, contributes in a major way to the socio-economic development of the community.

“For many people the income

they get from handicraft is the only income they can depend on,” he said.

Turning his attention to a key feature in the company’s award winning ‘Heart of the Islands EcoTour’, Parrish pointed out that Susan Butterfield’s contributions are invaluable.

“What she does is takes people into her home and give them a meal. Its more than just a meal because this is not a restaurant, it is her home, so what tourists get is a genuine feel of life on the TCI… Susan is always bubbling with stories about her family, her many grandchildren and lots of other interesting bits,” he said.

Parish stressed that put together these individuals add that touch that makes TCI’s distinctness appeal to tourists.

“Many of these people have been here for years before us…Big Blue has been here about 14 years now and some of the locals have been in this field for 20 years or so,” he said.

Parrish added that the awards recognized contributions made towards ensuring eco-tourism is sustainable, low-impact on the environment and contributes to the overall socio-economic development of the community.

“This is the first time we had these awards, but we may have them annually,” he said.

The Turks and Caicos Islands economy relies primarily on tourism.

 Get into the weekend mood with the intense and electrifying Tae-Bo class at Graceway Sports Centre from 6pm to 7pm. Free for fitness members, $12 for non-members.

Visit www.gracewaysports.com for more information or call 442-6349.

 Craig Archibold gets the party started at the Regent Palms from 7pm on Friday nights with the sound of classic Caribbean and Motown tunes. Call 9468666 for details

 The Tasting Table begins a brilliant new year with an associated event at one of the most beautiful resorts on the island, The Regent Palms. Chef Eric Vernice of The Palms has put together a spectacular menu paired with wines from Champagne, Burgundy and Beaujolais.

Morgan Delacloche from Maisons and Domaines Henriot joins us as a special guest to enliven the discussion about still and sparkling wines from France.

The evening begins on the Sunset West Boulevard at 5:30 p.m., then progresses to Parallel 23 Restaurant for what will prove to be a palate explosion of flavors. The cost for the dinner is $80 per person.

Saturday, February 4  The Weekly Community and Farmers’ Market organised by TCI Red Cross is on at the organization’s headquarters, opposite Lime on the Leeward Highway in Providenciales, from 10am to 2pm.

Persons will be able to purchase freshly grown produce and locally sourced items.

For more information on the Weekly Community and Farmers’ Market call (649) 247-8911. With regard to the TCI Red Cross’ services or how you can volunteer or donate, contact our Provo office on (649) 941-8056 or email redcrossprovo@tciway.tc OR for Grand Turk call (649) 946-2761 or Email:tciredcross@tciway.tc

 Weekly Foreign a Fare night every Thursday at the Bohio Dive Resort (Grand Turk) from 6:30 p.m. Each week different dishes from a different region in the world.

Previous nights have included: Italian, Spanish, English, Indian, Chinese, Moroccan, South African and Thai.

For details, call 946-2135 or go to www.bohioresort.com946-2135

Saturday, February 11

 If you’re looking for a serene and relaxed way of starting your weekend, bring your yoga mat at Graceway Sports Centre every Saturday at 9am and let David Bowen lead you into the wonderful world of yoga!

Amazing fees for an amazing class!

More info at 442-6348”  Mums and Tots Dance Party classes

• Hopelessly Romantic II, Saturday, Feb. 11, at 7 p.m. Stargazer Villa.

The Turks and Caicos Friends of the Arts Foundation (TCFAF) will host this fundraiser, and all monies generated will go back into TCFAF programs and workshops.

The evening will enchant guests with music from the islands’ most beautiful voices, delicious culinary delicacies prepared by local chefs and a hopelessly romantic atmosphere at the beautiful Stargazer Villa. Bring your dancing shoes!

Tickets $40 at the Unicorn Book store and Saltmills Diner.

Secure parking at Scotiabank, Cherokee Rd, with regular shuttle service to and from the Villa. More details www.tcfaf.com, 941-4617.”

Got an event you wish to advertise?

Call us on 946 4664 or email tcweeklynews@ gmail.com for a free listing.

Lifestyle...

16

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 4 - 10, 2012

The Dentist and you 

Good dental care from day one – Caring for your baby’s teeth

One of the key points of healthy teeth is getting into good habits early. This way children will grow up always following the basic steps of good dental care and seeing their parents and siblings all following the same good practices.

It’s important to know that if you follow the correct steps, dental disease is largely preventable. And preventing dental disease means preventing dental pain, complex dental procedures or potential tooth loss for your child.

Three Melon Smoothie

So, let us start at the beginning...

Even before a baby has teeth there are certain good practices that should be followed. When bottle feeding infant formula, expressed breast milk or cooled, boiled water should be used. Sugar water, sweetened milk, chocolate milk or juice should not be given to an infant. These liquids are unsuitable both from the general health perspective of the child as well as a dental perspective.

They also encourage a sweet tooth which means an infant will be more inclined to favor sweet drinks and food as they grow older.

An infant’s first tooth comes through at around 6 months. This is an average so if your child starts teething at 4 months or shows no sign of teeth at 10 months there is nothing to worry about. The first teeth are usually at the bottom.

Teething is a common cause of discomfort for a baby and can result in sleepless nights for both the baby and the parents. Babies who are teething may dribble excessively, be

Dr Mark Osmond

irritable and restless, have a raised temperature or have a red or slightly swollen face. If your baby is unwell for any length of time, or shows more severe symptoms such as stomach upset, it is advisable to take them to see a doctor.

If you baby is teething, you can help by • Giving you baby something hard to bite on, eg. a teething ring (some can be chilled in the fridge) • Massaging the gums with a clean finger • Using teething gel which helps to gently sooth the pain • Using sugar-free, acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) to help the pain (always follow the manufacturers instructions or consult with your dentist or pharmacist) When the teeth are through it is important to limit the amount of time that they are in contact with any liquid that can cause tooth decay (this includes milk). Prolonged and frequent contact of sweet liquids

from a bottle can cause what is known as ‘bottle caries’. This is dental decay identified specifically in young children caused by the sugary liquids drunk from a bottle damaging the enamel on the tooth surface. This is particularly likely if a baby is in the habit of going to sleep with a bottle in his/ her mouth. If your baby does this, encourage them to take a pacifier instead. (Do not dip it in anything sweet.)

As the parent, you should start brushing a baby’s teeth daily as soon as they are fully through. Use a small, soft toothbrush and a small amount of suitable fluoride toothpaste.

A child’s first trip to the dentist is usually around 18mths- 2 years. This will just be a very simple checkup where the dentist will exam the child’s teeth and gums, and gently polish the teeth. I aim to make it very relaxed and friendly to ensure that the experience is a positive not a scary one! Ideally, mum or dad will have been bringing the baby with them before this age when they are

attending their own regular dental check-ups. Having previously seen a parent in the dentist’s chair helps the child to feel comfortable and is therefore more likely to be happy and cooperative when it is their turn.

Do not see your child’s baby teeth as unimportant just because they will be replaced by adult teeth when the child is older. They play a vital role in enabling a child to eat, speak clearly, smile confidently and be healthy. If a child is not used to caring for their baby teeth it is almost guaranteed that they will not care for their adult teeth, which can result in decay, gum disease, fillings and tooth loss.

Starting those good habits from day one is not difficult but will undoubtedly pay off with healthier teeth and happier children!

Due to their high water content and combination with potassium, honey dew melons are helpful in: maintaining healthy blood

pressure levels. They also provide several key nutrients that are particularly beneficial for healthy skin.

(Mark Osmond Dental Clinic: 432 3777. If you have any questions about this article or any other dental concerns please email me on drmosmond@gmail.com or post on my Facebook page, MarkOsmondDentalClinic)

health Tip 

Refreshing honey dew melons (This smoothie featuring watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew is very refreshing on hot summer nights!)

Ingredients: • 2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed • 1 cup honeydew melon, cubed • 1 cup cantaloupe melon, cubed • 1/2 cup ice cubes • 1/2 cup lemon-lime soda pop Directions: • Place the watermelon, honeydew, cantaloupe, and ice in a blender.

Pour in the lemon-lime soda and puree until smooth.

(Nutritional Information: Amount Per Serving Calories: 65 | Total Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 0mg)

Readers, the joy is mine when writing from research to make available to you what I am reading about, and I say thanks to you for your undivided attention to all of the columns that you’ve read so far for 2012.

By no means least, I must give thanks to the one who made all that I do possible, He is the Almighty Creator.

Ok, let’s take a trip to our backyard garden or to the farm, and see what are some of the benefits we can receive form HONEY DEW MELONS. According to research, HONEY DEW MELONS - have similar

By Phillip Simmons nutritional benefits of summer and winter squash. Honey dew melons are low in calories and high in their water content. They provide an excellent source of Vitamin C and are aslo a very good source of potassium, copper and B Vitamins (including thiamine, niacin, B6 and panthotenic acid).

February 4 - 10, 2012

Lifestyle...

GARDENING 

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

How does your garden grow

Medicine of the bush (part one) Turks and Caicos is renowned for its brand of bush medicine. The Islanders people have long preserved an age-old system of herbal and natural healing that dates all the way back to the African heritage of the slaves who were brought to these islands centuries ago. Throughout the years, on the Islands that were remote from civilization and devoid of doctors, hospitals and pharmacies, it was the homeopathic knowledge and expertise passed down from generation to generation, that would end up promoting health, curing disease and saving lives.

While recent times have shortened distances and brought an influx of modern medicinal practices and practitioners to these countries, still to this day, some TCI people rely heavily on the herbal wisdom and natural remedies that they’ve been taught by those nearest and dearest to them. For that reason, naturopathic healing based on indigenous herbs and remedies, continues to thrive across the length and breadth of the region.

Although some might be tempted to scoff at these ancient, natural medicines, it might come as a surprise to learn that over 25% of the world’s commercial drugs derive from plant-based chemicals found in the tropics. Also, in the laboratories and research departments of several pharmaceutical giants and cutting edge universities, a vast amount of time and resources are currently being poured into studying many of the same herbs and combinations that have long been preached about and administered by the indigenous Caribbean population. Possible cures for cancer, HIV and a whole host of diseases and disorders may one day emerge from the studies of these humble and homely island remedies.

Here are some of the Caribbean’s most popular and widespread herbal curatives: Lignum Vitae (Guaiacum Officinale) A stunningly beautiful tree, which blooms in vibrant shades ranging from a rich purple to a vivid blue, Lignum Vitae (aka the “tree of life”) has a very long history as a source of healing. All the way back in the 1700s, this species of flora was considered to be the penicillin of the day. In our modern era, every part of the tree—from its bark and flowers to a resin it produces—is put to use in making teas, baths and ointments that will be implemented

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YOUR DIET

ASK TAMIKA

BY TAMIKA HANDFIELD

Tamika graduated from Florida International University in Miami with a Masters degree in Dietetics & Nutrition. She is a registered dietitian with the American Dietetic Association (ADA) and licensed to practice medical nutrition therapy in the state of Florida.

Email Tamika via tcweeklynews@gmail.com or tamikahandfield@yahoo.com with your healthy eating questions.

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

National Heart Month

Bush Medicine

to treat everything from body pains to weakness of the back.

Periwinkle Proving that sometimes the most powerful things can come from small and unassuming packages, the reputed properties that this little shrub offers, with its lovely fivepetal flower, includes possible cures for leukemia, eye infections and lung congestion. Famed throughout the Caribbean, from Jamaica and the Bahamas to Turks & Caicos and St. Lucia, this diminutive and pretty plant packs a spectacular punch.

Soursop (Annona Muricata) An unusual-looking fruit, whose leathery green skin is covered with knobby spikes, the Soursop not only offers amazing healing qualities, it also tastes delicious. A truly versatile member of the plant family, the Soursop is reputed to have had success curing the following:

insomnia, inflammation, sores, wounds and even drunkenness.

Yet what has many scientists sitting up and paying attention to this seemingly innocuous fruit is its possible efficacy in destroying certain cancer cells.

Aloe Vera Native to Africa, aloe vera is commonly cultivated elsewhere.

The clear gel found inside the plant’s leaf and the crystalline part found alongside the leaf blade, which contains aloin, are both used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes.

The clear gel is a remarkably effective healer of wounds and burns, speeding up the rate of healing and reducing the risk of infection. The brownish part containing aloin is a strong laxative, useful for shortterm constipation. Aloe is present in many cosmetic’s formulae because its emollient and scar preventing properties.

It seems like we can still hear the countdown to New Years; yet, we are looking at February already. To say January has flown by is an understatement! When February rolls around, we start seeing red for many reasons—still trying to regain financial stability after the holidays, Valentine’s Day but most importantly February is celebrated as National Heart Month.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC), diseases of the heart are the number 1 killer of Americans. Why is this important to us? It’s important because unlike many other developing countries, we in the Turks & Caicos share a very “Americanized” lifestyle in terms of many of the foods we eat and our sedentary lifestyle. Additionally, the AHA also rank heart diseases as the number 1 killer of women—yes, it beats out breast cancer or any other gynecological cancers!!

Many of the risk factors that contribute to heart disease are within our control; the AHA estimates that 80% of all heart disease is preventable.

So, what can you do? There are simple behavior modifications we can make to help our heart: • Don’t smoke or quit smoking • Drink in moderation or don’t drink at all • Increase physical activity • Reduce your stress levels • Get yearly blood pressure checks • Get standard cholesterol checks every 5 yrs • Eat heart healthy foods The above list suggests behaviors that many of us know already but heart disease is still the number 1 cause of death. This suggests a disconnect between the knowledge and the application of that knowledge. There may be a variety of reasons why persons are not applying their knowledge, one of which could be a lack of confidence or a feeling of being overwhelmed with so many health changes and recommendations. If this is the case, here are some ideas that you may find helpful: • Know that you are not alone in this struggle • Choose one behavior that you would like to change and focus on how you will make those changes • Become a part of a group of like-minded persons such as the Turks & Caicos Heart Foundation • Educate yourself on how you can become the healthiest you—there are many helpful resources that can offer assistance to you • Find fun activities that you enjoy doing which can help you be more physically active These are just a few suggestions to get you making those necessary changes. Continue reading during the month of February for more heart health related topics.

‘Like’ my page, ACCU Medical Nutrition—Nutrition in Demand, on Facebook and receive up to date nutrition information.

ACCU Medical Nutrition is based in Graceway IGA Plaza, Providenciales.

Call 946 8308, 242 3978 or 442 3978.

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Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

UK tax threatens Caribbean tourism THE CARIBBEAN is the most tourism-dependent region in the world - but a big drop in visitor numbers is being blamed on Britain’s air passenger duty.

The region has seen a 16% drop in arrivals from the UK over the last five years which has had an impact on the local economy where it is estimated that one in nine people work in the tourist industry.

The Caribbean Tourism Organisation is joining the country’s politicians and the leading UK airlines in calling for the tax to be reformed or scrapped ahead a planned rise in April of 8%.

The tax has also become an issue for many Jamaicans with relatives in the UK as it is making it more expensive for them to visit each other.

Josef Forstmayr, president of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourist Association said: “It is a total negation of colonial history and responsibility. Many of our people have helped to build the economy of the United Kingdom.

“Families with children and larger families are just not able to travel because it puts it out of reach for them to buy the ticket.

“It is an average of £75 ($118) per ticket which is going to go up to £83 ($130) per ticket in economy.”

There were originally two bands for APD, one for European destinations, and one for all nonEuropean destinations, which included the Caribbean.

But this was later replaced by a four-tier banding system based on the distance between London and the destination country’s capital city.

COMPETITIVE DISADVANTAGE The Caribbean was placed in band C, a decision that Caribbean governments argue places them at a competitive disadvantage to, for instance, holiday destinations in the US which have been placed in lower bands.

South Florida and the Florida

Taxing times for air travellers - Air Passenger Duty can reach £170 ($267) from some flights and is set to rise by 8% in April

Keys are in a lower tax band despite being further away from London.

The former tourism minister for Jamaica, Edmund Bartlett said the decision to set the tax based on the distances between capitals worked against the interests of the Caribbean. Hawaii - which was one and half times the distance from London as Kingston - was treated more favourably than Jamaica.

He said: “The Caribbean is the most tourism dependent region on earth - pretty close to 40% of the foreign exchange generated in the region is from tourism.

“We are disappointed. We see it as a slap in the face for the Caribbean.”

He has argued for parity in taxation with other North American destinations.

The duty was originally introduced for environmental reasons, a way to tackle climate change and combat greenhouse gas emissions from the airlines.

Passengers whose journey originated in the UK paid between £5 ($7.80) and £40 ($63) per ticket.

They now have to pay from £24 ($38) to £170 ($267).

Falling visitor numbers have prompted hotels to discount their room prices.

Coach on carnal abuse rap granted bail THE COACH of a St. Catherine-based high school, who is facing charges of carnal abuse and indecent assault, was Wednesday morning granted bail in the sum of $200,000.

His application was upheld by the Crown and bail granted on condition that he stays away from the complainant.

The businessman has also been instructed to surrender his travel documents and return to court on April 24, when the matter will again be mentioned.

His appearance in court arose from five counts of sexual impropriety committed against a 14-year-old student.

He is said to have had sex with the child on three occasions and has been accused of fondling her on two occasions.

The man was arrested and charged, after the teenager told a relative about the matter. (Jamaican Gleaner)

The tourism industry is also looking for new markets closer to home such as South America.

TOO EXPENSIVE The tax also hits people in the Caribbean who want to visit the UK. Many Jamaicans have relatives in Britain.

Jeff and Randi Lewis, who run a small printing business in Kingston, have family in London but can’t visit them.

They say taking their children Emma and Joshua to Britain is now beyond what they and friends can afford.

Randi said: “It is practically impossible right now with all the expenses that we have.

“We can’t afford to take a family vacation and go to the UK to visit family or friends. It is just too expensive.”

Their cry has been heard by some of the world’s biggest airlines.

British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Easyjet and Ryanair have called on the UK government to hold an independent review of the tax.

Willie Walsh, the chief executive of International Airlines Groups said: “I am surprised that more people have not campaigned against this because the level of the taxes that the UK applies are way in excess of the levels that other governments apply and indeed in the case of Europe there are 22 countries that don’t apply any tax.

“I believe this is creating a major problem for the tourist and aviation industries.”

But for now the tax seems here to stay and is being extended to private jets.

A Treasury spokesman confirmed the rise would go ahead as planned.

“The government has always said that the aviation sector must play its part in reducing the deficit and restoring the public finances.

“We took action for air passengers and airlines at the last budget by freezing APD for 2011, postponing an APD rise until April 2012,” said a Treasury spokesman. (BBC)

February 4 - 10, 2012

Clico impasse may be far from over BARBADOS has been warned that it cannot afford to dig deep to bail out CLICO. Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) president Dr Warren Smith is warning that the country cannot afford to bail out its own operations much less those in the Eastern Caribbean. “I don’t think that the Government of Barbados is in any position to be able to dig deep to come up with resources to bail out either their own or the Eastern Caribbean countries, and the Eastern Caribbean countries can’t afford to do that.”

In fact, he went as far as to say that he did not see any solutions to the CLICO situation that were either practical or affordable.

The CDB is a part of a

committee trying to seek a solution to the situation which unfolded when CL Financial in Trinidad collapsed in 2009, and has tabled numerous solutions to resolve the British American Insurance problem.

But, Dr Smith warned, the solution to the problem will be a very expensive one, and the committee is recommending a burden-sharing approach between Trinidad and the Eastern Caribbean countries.

However, he also made it clear that any attempt by countries to bail out all CLICO and British American policyholders and investors using state funds will be a dangerous undertaking.

(Caribbean 360)

Canada flays Caribbean over anti-gay laws CANADA has pointed a finger at Barbados, Jamaica, Grenada and their Commonwealth Caribbean neighbours, accusing them of being behind the times by keeping antihomosexual laws on their statute books.

The complaint came from Canada’s Foreign Minister John Baird, who said in London that laws in the region criminalising homosexual activity were a “hangover” from a bygone age and urged the islands to follow in the footsteps of “progressive countries” like his own and Britain and abandon laws which stigmatise

gays and trigger violence against them.

Without calling any country in the region by name, Baird told a meeting of the Commonwealth Society the laws in the English-speaking Commonwealth Caribbean needed to be changed because they encouraged gay bashing.

“Throughout most of the Commonwealth Caribbean, colonial era laws remain on the books that impose draconian punishment on gay people simply for being gay.

This contributes to social stigma and violence against gay people.”

(Barbados Nation)

Christie claims PM ‘desperate’ THE PRESSURE of the upcoming general election seems to be getting to Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham and showing him in a new light, his challenger claimed this week.

In an exclusive interview with The Tribune, PLP leader Perry Christie branded the Prime Minister’s latest comments as desperate, and claimed his lack of civility has brought politics in the Bahamas to a new low.

Responding to Mr Ingraham’s speech at the FNM’s unveiling of its full slate of 38 candidates at the Wyndham Nassau Resort on Sunday, Mr Christie said: “For the first time I see desperation, where he is almost beseeching and begging people not to vote for the PLP - I have never seen that in him before.

“I thought the Prime Minister’s speech was most regrettable in so far that he resorted to language that had no boundaries when it comes down to the civility that should be in public

Leader of the PLP Perry Christie said the current PM is desperate.

life.”

During his address Mr Ingraham labeled Mr Christie as a leader of talk and promises, “too weak and too scared” while in office to deal with members of his own administration who fell out of line.

February 4 - 10, 2012

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Baby Doc must pay for abuses: UN FORMER Haitian dictator Jean Claude (Baby Doc) Duvalier should be tried for torture, rape and killings committed during his rule, not merely on corruption charges as proposed by a Haitian judge, the United Nations human rights office said on Tuesday.

The judge handling the case, Carves Jean, told Reuters in Port au Prince on Monday that Duvalier will face trial for corruption during his 15 years in power, which ended in 1986, but not for human rights abuses.

But the office of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay, voiced deep disappointment and called on Haitian authorities to ensure he is prosecuted for international crimes.

“Very serious human rights violations including torture, rape and extrajudicial killings have been extensively documented by Haitian and international human rights organizations to have occurred in Haiti during the regime of Duvalier,” UN human rights spokesperson Rupert Colville told a news briefing in Geneva.

“Impunity for such serious crimes cannot be allowed to prevail and we urge the relevant authorities to ensure that justice is, albeit belatedly, delivered to the many victims of human rights abuses committed under the government of Mr. Duvalier,” he said.

Pillay’s office had repeatedly reminded judicial authorities in Haiti of their “absolute obligation” to investigate the violations and prosecute those responsible, he said.

“It is clear under international law that there is no statute of limitations for such crimes,” Colville added.

Jean told Reuters that he did not find enough legal grounds to retain human rights and crimes against

Former Haitian dictator JeanClaude (Baby Doc) Duvalier is facing corruption charges.

(Photograph by: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters file)

humanity charges against Duvalier and that a 20-page ruling had been delivered to the government prosecutor’s office on Monday.

Duvalier is alleged to have embezzled between $300 million and $800 million of assets during his rule, stashing some of it in Swiss coffers before fleeing to exile in neighbouring France.

Colville, asked why Duvalier would not face charges of violating human rights, replied: “We’re puzzled too, because under international law it is the very serious crimes such as crimes against humanity, war crimes, genocide, serious violations like torture which can also be a crime against humanity, these have no statute of limitations.

“In Haiti, our understanding is that under the constitution, international law is given supremacy so it does seem rather bizarre that financial charges appear to be possible but not international crimes,” he added.

Belize going to polls in March MARCH 17, 2012 is Election Day in Belize.

Prime Minister Dean Barrow made the announcement yesterday, making the country the first in the Caribbean to face the polls for 2012.

During a lengthy announcement to the country, Mr. Barrow also announced that the National Assembly will be dissolved on Friday, February 3 and Nomination Day will be on February 17.

The announcement also means that the upcoming elections will be held simultaneously with the municipal and city elections around the country.

During his address, Mr. Barrow sought to give an account of the ruling United Democratic Party’s stewardship after coming into power in February 2008. “We have accomplished much in this first term.

Acting always for the people and with the support of the people, our

overall record is a stellar one,” he said during his address.

The prime minister stated that the government’s track record included it being able to maintain consistent economic growth, give income tax relief to employees on fixed salaries and write off almost 15, 000 mortgages allowing those families to own their homes free and clear.

However, he told citizens that despite government’s achievements there were those who still continued to assault its policies and efforts.

“We reject that and know they are wrong. But as proof we want a clear reaffirmation now of the mandate for us to continue and expand our mission.

We want you to arm us and support us so we can tell the world that there will be no turning back,” he urged.

Mr. Barrow told the electorate that he was confident his government had done well and therefore deserved their trust.

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More protection sought for Caribbean coral reefs THE ecological niche of algaenibbling reef fish has become evident in recent years. By grazing aquatic vegetation, the fish enable healthy coral growth.

Environmental advocates say that, in order to maintain and restore coral reef health, species like parrotfish need greater protection, and this week went to federal court to try force the National Marine Fisheries Service to safeguard elkhorn and staghorn corals in the Caribbean, both protected under the Endangered Species Act since 2006. The corals have declined by more than 90 percent since the 1970s.

“The Caribbean’s coral reefs are already in deep trouble, and reducing the parrotfish that help them stay healthy only makes matters worse,” said Miyoko Sakashita, oceans director at the Center for Biological Diversity. “If we don’t take steps now to safeguard the creatures that keep these vital reefs alive, we risk losing all of it.”

The lawsuit claims the agency ignored science showing that parrotfish and other grazing fish play a key role in promoting the health of coral reefs; the government’s authorization of targeted fishing for parrotfish poses a risk to the endangered corals.

According to the lawsuit, the National Marine Fisheries Service violated the Endangered Species Act by finding that the targeted fishing for parrotfish would not jeopardise already imperiled corals or “adversely modify,” i.e. damage, their critical habitat.

Endangered elkhorn coral, one of the key reef-building species in the Caribbean. (photo courtesy NOAA).

Excessive algal growth threatens the health of Caribbean reefs, choking out corals and degrading the habitat that other reef creatures — such as fish, sea turtles and lobsters — depend on.

Fish populations in the Caribbean have been overfished, including the parrotfish that are the subject of this lawsuit; managing the overfishing of parrotfish will help corals recover and become more resilient to other threats, including global warming and ocean acidification.

“Restoring healthy populations of elkhorn and staghorn coral is critical to restoring the health of Caribbean reefs as a whole,” said Andrea Treece, an attorney with Earthjustice. “These corals provide shelter, nursery grounds, and hunting grounds for

an incredible array of fish, lobsters, sea turtles and other species. Without better protection, we risk losing the entire reef community.”

“Corals are competing with algae, and without a robust population of parrotfish, the algae are going to win,” said Sakashita. “But wise management of our reefs can keep algae in check and promote both healthy corals and healthy fish.”

Elkhorn and staghorn corals were once the dominant reef-building corals in the Caribbean but they are perilously close to extinction. Corals suffer from a variety of threats, including pollution, global warming and ocean acidification. A key threat to corals, however, continues to be overfishing and competition with algae.

St Vincent PM welcomes regional ferry service ST VINCENT and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves has welcomed plans announced by Transport Minister Devant Maharaj to fast track the regional ferry service between this country and four southern Caribbean islands.

He said he was even happier about the proposed prices— between US$25 and US$35 a person for the trip which will start in Trinidad, go to Grenada, St Vincent, Barbados and return to Trinidad.

He said he does not see the initiative competing with either Caribbean Airlines (CAL) or LIAT. However, he said it provides and opportunity for the discussion on one Caribbean air carrier.

Maharaj announced at last Thursday’s post-Cabinet meeting that the Government had moved one step closer to making the ferry service a reality by contracting the services of FCL, a Barbados-based consortium.

Gonsalves, flew into Trinidad

The ferry service will travel between St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados.

on Friday morning to visit Patrick Manning, who is recovering from a mild stroke at the San Fernando General Hospital (SFGH).

Addressing the issue of interisland transportation, Gonsalves recalled that the study for this project started when Colm Imbert was Minister of Works and Transport.

“I called a meeting of transport ministers in St Vincent and we had discussed air and sea transport.” He said the Government did commit to undertaking the study and initial financing.

“I am overjoyed to see the new administration not just continuing, but developing further and to a higher level this particular policy, to have a practical meaning and invitation to the people of the region.”

Gonzales said with the initiative coming on stream, arrangements must now be worked out with the two regional air carriers, CAL and LIAT. He said it will be discussed when LIAT shareholders meet today.

“We have to get to the bottom of CAL and LIAT working together.

Patrick Manning had a vision for one Caribbean airline, Panday had a vision for one Caribbean airline, and I know there are people in the Government of T&T who have that vision. “We have to turn that dream into a reality and we have to do it in a practical way,” he said.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Entertainment

February 4 - 10, 2012

Vybz Kartel trial date set for May 8 JAMAICAN Dancehall artiste Vybz Kartel will go to trial on May 8 to answer to the charges of conspiracy to pervert the course of justice and attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Kartel is also before the court for on two murder charges.

The date was scheduled when Kartel appeared in the Half Way Tree RM Court this morning.

Vybz Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, is charged jointly with fellow Portmore Empire artiste Vanessa Saddler, more popularly known as Gaza Slim and his associate Andre Henry also known as Pim Pim. They too are to go on trial on May 8. The duo also had their bail extended. Pim Pim, however, had the condition of surrendering his travel documents removed, because his passport cannot be located.

Vybz Kartel is also on two murder charges.

The charge of conspiracy to pervert the course of justice arose after it was alleged that Kartel and Gaza Slim, were a part of a plot to undermine a police investigation into the murder of Clive ‘Lizard’ Williams.

Kartel is accused of killing Williams.

Saddler had filed a report with the police claiming that

Williams assaulted her during a robbery in Havendale, St Andrew.

She claimed that the incident occurred on October 29, five days after Kartel was charged with William’s murder.

It is alleged that Sadler and others made up the story to help Kartel with his defence.

(Jamaican Gleaner)

February 4 - 10, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 4 - 10, 2012

Leslie Carter (l.), with brother Aaron Carter, died Tuesday in upstate New York.

Tragedy has struck the Carter clan

Pitbull has had a good year.

Pitbull to receive top Latin gong

US RAPPER Pitbull is to receive the prestigious president’s prize at this year’s BMI Latin Awards, organisers have announced.

The top award is presented to artists who have “distinctly and profoundly influenced the entertainment industry”.

Last year the 31-year-old had a string of hits including Give Me Everything, Shake Senora and Rain Over Me. Previous recipients of the award

include Taylor Swift, Gloria Estefan and Willie Nelson.

Born in Florida to Cuban parents, Pitbull’s real name is Armando Christian Perez.

His music incorporates a wide range of genres, from reggae and hiphop to dancehall and Miami bass.

Although his lyrics are often bilingual - in Spanish and English he refuses to be pigeonholed by his background.

“I’m not a Latin rapper,” he told

one interviewer at the start of his career. “I’m a rapper that happens to be Latin, you feel me?”

Pitbull hit number one in the UK last April with Give Me Everything, which went on to become the sixth best-selling single of the year.

His album, Planet Pit, went to number 11 later in the year.

The BMI (Broadcast Music Inc) Latin Awards take place on 30 March at the Encore Wynn in Las Vegas.

(BBC)

Leslie Carter, sister of Backstreet Boys member Nick Carter and singer Aaron Carter, died Tuesday in upstate New York. She was 25.

“Our family is grieving right now and it’s a private matter,” a spokesperson for the family said in a statement to the Daily News. “We are deeply saddened for the loss of our beloved sister, daughter and granddaughter, Leslie Carter.

“We request the utmost privacy during this difficult time.”

The cause of death has not yet

been revealed.

Carter, like her brothers, was a singer who had reportedly signed a deal with DreamWorks Records in 1999, but never released an album.

Her single “Like Wow!” was included on the soundtrack for “Shrek” in 2001.

The aspiring singer also appeared in the family’s 2006 reality show, “House of Carters,” with her four siblings.

Carter is survived by her husband, Mike Ashton, and a daughter, Alyssa Jane Ashton. (Nydailynews.com)

Authorities: ‘Soul Train’ founder dead of gunshot wound DON Cornelius, the founder of the “Soul Train” television show, was found dead of an apparent selfinflicted gunshot wound to his head Wednesday, authorities said. He was 75.

Cornelius died of a gunshot wound at a house on Mulholland Drive, said Los Angeles police Officer Tenesha Dodine. Police responded to the call about 4 a.m. (7 a.m. ET), Dodine said.

Cornelius was pronounced dead at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, according to Lt. Larry Dietz of the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office.

Los Angeles police investigators reported to the coroner that Cornelius died from a “self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head,” coroner’s Assistant Chief Ed Winter said.

The coroner’s office will perform an autopsy to confirm the cause of death.

Cornelius created a pilot for “Soul Train” using $400 of his own money, according to the website biography. com. The show was named after a

Elephant man is charged with sexually assaulting a 31-year-old woman.

The founder of ‘Soul Train’ has died.

promotional event he put together in 1969, the site said.

Gladys Knight, who performed on the pilot of the show more than four decades ago, said Cornelius “opened up so many avenues for AfricanAmerican artists.”

In an interview with CNN Wednesday, Knight said he appeared in ill health when she saw him recently.

“Last time I saw him, he was

pretty sick,” Knight said. “He had lost a lot of weight, but he still had that thing about him.”

Singer Aretha Franklin called his death “so sad, stunning and downright shocking.”

“Don Cornelius single-handedly brought about a melding and unity of brother and sisterhood among young adults worldwide and globally with the unforgettable creation of ‘Soul Train,’” Franklin said.

Elephant Man granted bail on rape charge

DANCEHALL deejay Elephant Man, was granted bail in the sum of $400,000 when he appeared in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate’s Court this afternoon.

Elephant Man, whose real name is Oniel Bryan, appeared in a black outfit and appeared to be in an upbeat mood as he chatted with his attorney

Linda Wright.

He is charged with the rape and sexual assault of a 31-year-old woman. The incident happened at his St Andrew home, police say.

He was arrested on Monday and will reappear in court for a preliminary hearing on May 21.

(Jamaica Observer)

February 4 - 10, 2012

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World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Twins born in Brazil with two heads, one heart

CONJOINED twins have been born in Brazil with two heads, two functioning brains and two backbones - but a single heart.

The rare condition is thought to have occurred when one of the pair failed to fully develop in the womb.

Doctors say separating the twins, named Jesus and Emanuel, is not currently an option because there is only one set of organs, Reuters reports.

They are being monitored by specialists to see how they develop.

Dr Neila Dahas, who is treating the newborns, said surgery was not being considered at the moment.

But she said separating the boys would be impossible because of the single set of organs - and that it was difficult to choose which head to remove because both brains were functioning well.

“What we know statistically is that the children who undergo surgery and survive are the children who have less organs in common,” she added.

“What we’ve got to think about at this moment is to maintain the children in good condition and see how they will develop.”

‘NO SCANS’ The condition, known as dicephalic parapagus, is rare.

However there have been other known cases, notably Abigail and Brittany Hensel who were born in the US in 1990. They aim to live as

Dozens killed in football clash AT LEAST 79 people have been killed in fan clashes following a football match in the Egyptian city of Port Said, reports from Egypt say.

Reports said the deaths occurred after supporters invaded the pitch following a match between top-tier clubs Masry and Ahly on Wednesday.

A number of people were also said to be injured in the violence.

Some of the dead in Wednesday’s clashes were security officers, the Associated

press quoted a morgue official saying.

The BBC’s Jon Leyne in Cairo says there are fears that the death toll could rise as scores were injured - some, reportedly, as a result of knife wounds.

Our correspondent says the lack of apparent security might have contributed.

Police in Egypt have been keeping a much lower profile since last year’s popular protests that ousted President Hosni Mubarak from power. (BBC)

Officials: Mexico’s ambassador to Venezuela kidnapped, freed Jesus and Emanuel share a heart.

normal a life as possible, even taking their driving test when they were 16.

Jesus and Emanuel were born by Caesarean section weighing 9.9lbs (4.5kg) on Monday morning in a small hospital in the northern state of Para.

Patrick O’Brien, a spokesman for the UK’s Royal College of Obstetrician and Gynaecologists who has been involved in several conjoined twin cases, said no decisions were likely to be made

about Jesus and Emanuel’s future for some time.

“A lot of work is needed, in terms of scans and tests, before doctors will know if they can separate them or not, and just how organs and blood vessels are shared and linked.

“It takes quite a while before they can decide how feasible it is.”

Mr O’Brien said dicephalic parapagus affected around one in 100,000 pregnancies, but that around half do not reach full-term. (BBC)

Europe freeze: Heavy snow across continent

HEAVY snow has caused disruption across Europe, carpeting much of Italy to the south and Turkey to the east.

The freeze that has swept south through the continent has caused at least 80 deaths, mainly in Ukraine and Poland.

Temperatures were so low that some areas in Romania along the shores of the Black Sea froze.

In central Italy, heavy goods lorries were barred from motorways and several top-flight football matches have fallen victim to the wintry conditions.

Ukrainian officials reported that the number of deaths attributed to the freeze had risen to 43, with 13 people falling victim to hypothermia in the past 24 hours.

Schools and colleges in the capital, Kiev, were shut on Wednesday because of the severe cold.

School closures were also reported in northern Greece, where temperatures of -16C (3F) were recorded.

In Turkey, three crew-members from a ship that sank during a storm

February 4 - 10, 2012

MEXICO’S ambassador to Venezuela and his wife were freed early Monday after armed men kidnapped them and held them hostage for hours, officials said.

Ambassador Carlos Pujalte and his wife were unharmed, Venezuela’s interior ministry said in a statement.

Venezuelan police helped free them four hours after they were captured, authorities said.

Armed men kidnapped the couple around midnight Sunday after they left a reception in Caracas, Venezuelan investigators said in a statement.

Investigators did not indicate whether they had apprehended any suspects or uncovered a motive for the kidnapping.

Mexico’s foreign ministry said in a statement Monday that Pujalte and his wife were “in good health”

after their release, calling on Venezuelan investigators to conduct an “exhaustive investigation” into the abduction.

Pujalte, 58, became Mexico’s ambassador to Venezuela in 2010, Mexico’s state-run Notimex news agency said. He also has served as Mexico’s ambassador to Costa Rica and its consul general in Toronto, Canada.

As Venezuela’s economy has stagnated in recent years, crimes such as kidnapping and murder have risen.

According to the National Institute of Statistics, 16,917 people were kidnapped between July 2008 and July 2010, or about 23 kidnappings a day.

Chile’s consul general in Caracas was kidnapped, shot and wounded after leaving a hotel there in November. (CNN)

London Stock Exchange bomb plot admitted by four men

The freeze that has swept south through the continent has caused at least 80 deaths, mainly in Ukraine and Poland.

in the Black Sea were pulled out alive by coastguard near the north-western port of Eregli but eight others were missing.

The bulk carrier Vera, with a crew of 10 Ukrainians and a Georgian, had been carrying a cargo of scrap metal from Rostov in Russia to Izmir in western Turkey.

Snowfalls were recorded as far

south as southern Italy and Corsica, where at least 20cm of snow covered the centre of the Mediterranean island.

Italian rail services were reduced because of the wintry conditions. In Sicily, a one-year-old boy was fatally injured when his mother’s car went into a stream swollen by torrential rain.

FOUR men inspired by al-Qaeda have admitted planning to detonate a bomb at the London Stock Exchange.

Mohammed Chowdhury, Shah Rahman, Gurukanth Desai and Abdul Miah pleaded guilty to engaging in conduct in preparation for acts of terrorism.

The men, from London and Cardiff, were arrested in December 2010 and were set to stand trial at Woolwich Crown Court.

Five other men have pleaded guilty to other terrorism offences and all nine will be sentenced next week.

The men, who are all British nationals, had been inspired by the preachings of the recently-killed radical extremist Anwar Al-Awlaki.

It emerged that those who admitted

planning to target the London Stock Exchange wanted to send five mail bombs to various targets during the run up to Christmas 2010 and discussed launching a “Mumbaistyle” atrocity.

A hand-written target list discovered at the home of one of the men listed the names and addresses of London Mayor Boris Johnson, two rabbis, the US embassy and the Stock Exchange.

The conspiracy was stopped by undercover anti-terror police before firm dates could be set for attacks.

The terrorists met because of their membership of various radical groups and stayed in touch over the internet, through mobile phones and at specially arranged meetings.

(BBC)

February 4 - 10, 2012

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Village that stood up to Chinese authorities holds election

RESIDENTS of a fishing village in southern China voted Wednesday, asserting their right to participate in local decisions after a tense standoff last year where they drove out authorities over land rights and corruption.

The election in Wukan comes after the violent confrontations in December forced villagers to expel government officials and set up barricades to prevent police from entering.

“We are now having an election reflecting the villagers’ own will, that’s a good thing,” said Yang Semao, one of the protest leaders who has served as the head of the village after the standoff.

Yang said by telephone that the vote Wednesday was to appoint an electoral committee that will in turn hold elections for village representatives in March.

He said the aim was to get more people involved in the village’s decision-making process.

Villagers clashed with the Chinese

authorities last year after grievances over land rights and corruption by local officials.

Residents of the village in Guangdong province claimed local governments have seized land illegally for the past decade and sold it to developers.

News of a sale of nearly 1,000 acres of land to developers prompted violent protests by villagers who said they had not received any compensation even though they relied on the land for their livelihood.

In December, the villagers drove out government officials and set up obstacles to prevent the police from entering the village.

With the international news media drawing worldwide attention to the situation, the Chinese authorities trod carefully to defuse the standoff.

Zhu Mingguo, the deputy party secretary of the province, held talks with a village representative to negotiate a deal that included the release of villagers detained by the authorities during the protests. (CNN)

$23 million bond set for teacher accused of ‘bondage’ photos of kids BOND was set at $23 million Wednesday for a Los Angeles elementary school teacher who allegedly took bondage photos of more than two dozen students in his classroom -- $1 million for each of the 23 counts he faces of lewd acts on a child.

The 400 photographs collected by investigators include some showing suspected semen-filled spoons at the children’s mouths, a sheriff’s investigator said.

Mark Berndt, 61, appeared briefly before a Los Angeles judge for his initial court appearance Wednesday morning, represented by a courtappointed public defender.

His next court appearance was set for February 21.

Authorities arrested Berndt at his home Monday, and charged him with the 23 felony counts.

“I feel for those parents and for those babies -- those helpless babies,” Wanda Mosley, a resident who lives near Miramonte Elementary School, told CNN affiliate KABC.

The 400 photographs collected by investigators include some showing suspected semen-filled spoons at the children’s mouths, a sheriff’s investigator said.

The chilling accusations were a stunning betrayal for many parents.

“I’m angry. I’m disgusted. I’m sad,” Kimberly Kirklin told the station.

The probe started when a film processor gave investigators “over 40 photographs depicting children in

Argentina slams Prince William’s Falklands deployment ARGENTINA’S foreign ministry slammed British officials Tuesday over Prince William’s upcoming deployment in the Falkland Islands.

“Prince William is coming...as a member of the armed forces of his country,” the ministry said in a statement. “The Argentinian people regret that the royal heir is coming to the soil of the homeland with the uniform of the conqueror and not with the wisdom of a statesman who works in the service of peace and dialogue between nations.”

Argentina invaded the Falklands in 1982, prompting a war in which more than 600 Argentinian and 255 British troops died. After the war, the United Kingdom retained control of the islands, which are off Argentina’s coast in the South Atlantic.

Politicians from both countries have ratcheted up their rhetoric over the islands this month, with Prince William’s scheduled February arrival in the territory looming.

The Duke of Cambridge will be one of four Royal Air Force pilots deployed to the Falkland Islands military base next month, the British Ministry of Defence has said.

News of British plans to deploy the destroyer HMS Dauntless to the region did nothing to stymie the war of words Tuesday.

“The Republic of Argentina rejects the British attempt to militarize a conflict that the United Nations already has said on numerous occasions both nations should resolve in bilateral negotiations,” Argentina’s foreign ministry said in its statement, titled “More Diplomacy Less Weapons.”

Prince William at the controls of a Sea King helicopter during a training exercise at Holyhead Mountain on March 31, 2011.

British officials have said the ship’s deployment is routine, Britain’s ITN news network reported.

But Ernesto Alonso, an Argentinian veteran of the 1982 war over the islands, told ITN that the move was “a new provocation.”

“We’re peaceful. We want to talk.

Sending this ship sends a different signal,” he said.

British Prime Minister David Cameron has criticised Argentinian officials for their renewed claims to the island.

“We support the Falklands’ right to self-determination, and what the Argentinians have been saying recently I would argue is actually far more like colonialism, because

27

these people want to remain British, and the Argentinians want them to do something else,” he told lawmakers earlier this month.

Cameron’s comments about colonialism have roiled Argentinian politicians and protesters alike.

Demonstrators marching outside the British Embassy in Buenos Aires earlier this month burned British flags and urged Argentina to sever ties with London.

Argentinian President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner last week slammed the British presence on the islands, which are known as the Malvinas in Argentina.

“They are preying on our natural resources, our oil, our fish,” she said.

Fernandez’s campaign has won over several neighbouring countries.

Last month, members of the Mercosur trade bloc -- which includes Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay -- said they would stop ships bearing the Falkland Islands flag from entering their ports.

That move angered British officials.

“It is unacceptable to engage in an economic blockade of the Falklands,” Foreign Office Minister Jeremy Browne said.

About 2,500 residents live on the islands, in addition to 1,700 people stationed at the British military’s Mount Pleasant Complex there, according to the islands’ government website. (CNN)

a school classroom, with their eyes blindfolded and mouths covered with tape,” a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s statement said.

“Investigators learned that some of the photos depicted suspect Mark Berndt with his arm around the children, or with his hand over their mouths,” it said.

Some photos show female students with “what appeared to be a blue plastic spoon, filled with an unknown clear/white liquid substance, up to their mouths as if they were going to ingest the substance,” the statement said.

Other photos showed “children with large live Madagascar-type cockroaches on their faces and mouths,” it said.

Investigators, who interviewed more than 80 current and former students and school employees, identified 23 boys and girls then between the ages of 7 and 10 years old as alleged victims in crimes that are believed to have been committed between 2005 and 2010, it said.

The young students “didn’t realize they were victimised,” sheriff’s Sgt. Dan Scott said.

“They thought they were being blindfolded and gagged as a game,” he said. “And they were rewarded with cookies or spoons full of sugar (but) they did not realise the spoon contained semen.”

The photographs also showed “a large 3-inch cockroach that would crawl on their face,” Scott said.

A search of Berndt’s home found more than 100 more similar photographs depicting children and a video depicting adult sexual “bondage” activity “which mirrored the bondage-type photos of the children,” investigators said.

The film processor later gave investigators an additional 250 photographs, authorities said.

About 10 children seen in the more than 400 images have not yet been identified, they said.

The investigation began more than a year ago, officials said. (CNN)

Auto sales real estate

Classifieds

LOUIDERS JEANS

GRACE BAY SUITES

Is seeking a

Is looking to fill the following positions:

FAST SALE

• Cleaners • Maids • Life guard • Masseuse • Beach/ Pool Attendants • Bartenders • Front Desk Manager • Part-time & live-in positions available immediately

Watchman/ Labourer To work in the yard salary starting at $5.00 per hour must be able to work 5 days per week.

Contact: 344-9516

6142

FOR RENT/

Is looking for a

Fully furnished three bedroom two and a half bathroom house located in Long Bay, Providenciales.

Cosmetologist To work 6 days per

Rent $1200.00

Contact: 244-4445 or 242-0200 6219

contact: 241-5564

6180

week salary $5.50 per hour must have at least 4 years experience in all hair care needs.

a month

Priced very low for sale.

$300,000 o.n.o.

CONTACT: 231-3788

Contact: 231-3788

is looking for a

SALE

DONTE WILLIAMS

GEORGE FORBES

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Labourer Worker Labourer To work 6 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 345-9911

6181

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

Contact: 442-6220

IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR

Assistant Manager Of Operations • 10 years or more of experience as the operations manager of a building company with projects of increasing complexity • 5 years or more of field experience with increasing responsibility from carpenter to project manager • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Affiliation with A.I.A. and NAHB preferred

Please forward resume and salary requirements in confidence to

Human Resource Manager Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI Email: info@atlanticinternational.tc Tel: 432-6100 6225

FOR SALE

DOMESTIC

WORKER

NEEDED To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per week.

Email info@misickstanbrok.tc or fax: 649-946-4734 6228

GRANT’S PETROLEUM Is looking for a

Domestic

ATLANTIC INTERNATIONAL LTD.

Applicant must be able to demonstrate suitable management experience on high-end commercial and residential building projects. Minimum qualifications and experience required: • Four Year College Degree in related field (Construction Management or Architecture) • High computer proficiency in MS Office, Excel, AutoCad, QuickBooks, Illustrator, and Scheduling Software

Website: tcweeklynews.com

$650.00 per month Gated Community Furnished

ATLANTIC CONSTRUCTION

DEBBIE DELANCY

Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

STUDIO APARTMENT FOR RENT

1.3 Acres Of Land Ocean Drive, Turtle Tail Semi-Hilltop

Please deliver resume with salary expectations to Front Desk by February 4th, 2012 preference will be given to qualified Belongers 6100

946-4664

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 243-6890

Supervisor Must be able to service and maintain pumps salary $6.00 per hour Pump Attendant must be able to work weekends and holidays salary $5.25 per hour.

Send resume to P.O. Box 477

6213

Services

February 4 - 10, 2012

6226

Job Listings

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

6215

28

GARDENER/ HANDYMAN/ LABOUR REQUIRED

• Daily include raking, cleaning, small repairs, gardening, painting, etc • Must have valid driver’s license.

• Belongers need only apply. Hourly rate is $6 per hour.

CONTACT JOHN AT 941- 4634OR FAX TO 941-4664

6223

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

February 4 - 10, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664 EDWARD WATKINS Is looking for a

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

ESTEL PLUMBING

Is looking for a

GEE HANDFIELD

Is looking for a

Labourer LABOuRER Labourer To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour Belonger will be given first preference.

contact: 241-0397

6183

contact: 343-1205

6182

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

29

To work 3 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 243-9688

6177

NEEDED FOR DIVE OPERATION Experienced PADI Dive Instructor & PADI Divemaster • Must have valid insurance & certification • Must have a good personality to work around people • Must have mechanical maintenance experience • Flexible hours a must- Holidays & Sundays Required

ETS wishes to recruit a

Technical Coordinator Duties include coordinating the technical operations of a multifaceted, three-pronged consultancy firm, assisting in developing operational procedures and logistics, drafting contracts, assisting in the orderly operation of activities in line with established procedures and budgets, assisting with preparation and review of project implementation and reports, and liaise with clients both locally and internationally etc. Applicants must have a First-degree in Business Management, minimum 5 years post qualification experience in technical operations, accounting management experience, must be computer literate especially in Microsoft Word, Access and Excel, must be punctual, responsible and have the ability to work on your own initiative, have a valid TCI driver’s license, own transportation, willing to work weekends and holidays, & clean police record.

Salary between $21000- 22000 commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Please forward resume to the

Please contact Donna at Caicos Adventures: 941-3346 for interview All applications must be submitted by February 10th, 2012 Salary starts at $350.00 per week

FAX: (649) 946-4661

Manager, ETS, Long Bay, Providenciales or email them to consult@ets.tc.

6188

6220

30

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

WANTED

labourers

Who will be responsible for the daily maintenance of the building, stocking of the shelves and any other duties that may be assigned to you.

This individual must posses the following: • Adequate tools to perform his duties • Must be able to work with little or no supervision • Must be computer literate • Must be able to work weekends • Must posses a valid drivers license Please submit all application between the hours of 9am-5pm (Monday-Friday)

Bayview Motors Ltd. P.O. Box 619.

Leeward Highway, Providenciales

MISICK AND STANBROOK

6178

contact: 232-7317

@@The successful Candidate must have at least twelve years experience in a range of complex commercial matters. @@Salary range $90,000 to $108,000 commensurate with experience @@Closing date for applications: March 28th, 2011

Maintenance/Handyman Applicant must be able to drive, able to complete minor repairs and construction projects. Own transportation a plus. $5.00 per hr

Applicants should please send detailed CV with the names of two referees to Deveraux Malcolm, Misick and Stanbrook, via fax (649) 946 4734 or e-mail to info@misickstanbrook.tc.

Contact: 246-4556 or 342-7222

6192

Coxco Construction Ltd Coxco Construction Ltd. have the following positions available for suitably qualified Belongers with building experience on high end commercial and resort hotel building projects.

VACANCY Looking for suitable qualified person to fill the following positions:

Who should have a minimum of 20 years supervisory experience on a large commercial project and be able to effectively manage labour of different nationalities. Must be able to read drawings and be conversant in the use of basic surveying instruments. Ideally the candidate with be conversant in Creole and Spanish in addition to English. Salary range 40k to 55k depending on experience.

Construction Worker-Supervisor Who should be time served joiners with at least 15 years experience working with tropical hardwoods to achieve the very highest standards of finish. Must be willing to undertake a test to ascertain ability to work to the highest standards. Hourly rate $14 per hour.

Labourers

2 Farmers

Salary $5.00 per hour

• Cook

1 Steel Man

Salary must commensurate with qualifications

Salary $8.00 per hour Interested persons can

Catch The Wave

TIKI HUT

2 Labourers

Salary $5.00 per hour

Upstairs Bar & Grill

contact: 242-0439

CHARLES TIPTON

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Is looking to fill the following positions:

1 Domestic Worker

• Kitchen Helper • Waitress

Resumes can be faxed to 941-3425 and the Labour Department, Providenciales as soon as possible

TERRENCE TAYLOR

Salary $6.00 per hour

Hole in the Wall Restaurant

Supervisor

6184

Applicant must have pleasant disposition, able to solve and/or work through problems related to guest(s) or property. Working geographical knowledge of popular island locations including restaurants and hotels.

Applicant must be able to maintain the highest form of discretion and professionalism, computer literate and well spoken. Must be able to work weekends and holidays.

COMMERCIAL ATTORNEY

per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 243-5138

Property Manager/ Concierge

is seeking to fill the following position:

Labourers To work 5 days

6190

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour

6189

6179

Labourer

6187

Serious inquirers should contact:

Is looking a

Is looking for a

Is currently looking to employ 4

To attend and care for properties in Providenciales and Grand Turk.

Must have a Pastoral reference.

Salary $5.00 per hour Bishop Clarence N. Williams Downtown, P.O. Box 685 Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands

JESSICA CAMPBELL

BAYVIEW MOTORS

1 Gardener/ Handyman

LEW & JAN CONSTRUCTION NORTH CAICOS

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

6191

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

February 4 - 10, 2012

Is looking for a

Who must be responsive and committed to hard work Hourly rate $5.50

Truck Driver

6155

Contact: 941-5341

6185

Apply to Mervin Cox at Coxco Construction Ltd., Cherokee Road, Telephone 946-5754, Fax 946-5166

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 941-3047

Labourer To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 244-7929

6195

Cleaner Handyman To work 6 days To work 6 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

All salaried persons must be ‘hands on’ and be willing to work long hours, weekends and public holidays to meet project objectives.

6193

Applicant must have a valid Turks & Caicos driver’s license. Must be able to operate forklift. Willing to pickup workers and drop to site, pickup incoming cargo from freight forwarders and purchases from on Island suppliers/ vendors. Deliver goods to site and off load manually or with forklift. Clean, inspect and service trucks as needed. MUST BE A TEAM PLAYER. Hourly rate $8 per hour.

February 4 - 10, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664 Tabitha’s Magic Mirror Is looking to fill the following positions:

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

WANTED FOREMAN

COSMETOLOGIST – 5 days at $7.00.00 per hour Please contact Stewart Howard @ 941-5028

EMMA SELVER

JACQUELINE SMITH Is looking to fill the following positions:

Is looking for 2

Contact: 243-4214

6212

contact: 241-8729

6211

Must be able to work 6 days per week Salary $5.00 per hour.

To work 4 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

6210

Job Requirements & Responsibilities:

LATINO’S CONSTRUCTION

• Responsible for overall management of product distribution and revenue of sales • Oversee the day to day management of wholesale department personnel to maximize sale productivity • Oversees and manages the Supermarket growing wholesale accounts • At least five (5) years Sales or Marketing experience.

• Five (5) years Chef Experience.

• Good knowledge of wholesale foods, liquor, wines and beers.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Competence in the use of Microsoft Word and Excel.

• Good negotiation and interpersonal skills.

• Must have a personal vehicle and a valid Driver’s License.

• Must have pervious managerial experienced working in a supermarket retail environment • Applicant will be required to work weekends and holidays

Is looking to fill the following positions:

Barber Hair Braider Domestic Worker

Farmers

Wholesale Food & Sales Manager

Carpenter

– salary $8.00 per hour

Secretary

– salary $5.00 per hour Must be willing to work 6 days per week.

Contact: 347-0779

6213

6224

Contact: 247-7951

Graceway IGA Supermarket is seeking suitable qualified applicants to fill the listed positions:-

– 5 days a week at $7.00 per hour

years experience Salary $5.00 per hour.

FAX: (649) 946-4661

vacancies

An Individual is needed for the following:

Beautician Nail Technician Must have at least 5

31

Salary range: $36,000.00 - $42,000.00 annually.

General Manager Summary of Duties

Kwatcha Holdings is seeking applicants to fill the position of an

ACCOUNTANT Requirements/Duties:

Required Specifications and qualifications

• Over ten (10) years experience in supermarket retail and wholesale management with a minimum of five (5) years in a senior management position to include management of individual departments.

• Experience in company expansion projects with the ability to lead and develop new store concept, design, layout, format and operations.

• Proficient in the understanding of retail and wholesale accounting and good business practices related to documentation and record keeping.

• Strong current product knowledge of the retail industry and a proven record in the ability to achieve the budgeted financial and operating results, including sales, profitability, and wage percentage.

• Experience managing and developing the human resources activities, maintain and develop organizational culture, values and reputation in market and with all staff, customers, suppliers, partners and governmental bodies.

• Must have the ability to identify, develop and direct the implementation of business strategy and report to shareholders on organizational plans, financial disclosure and operational performance.

• Ability to work extended hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.

1. CPA/ACA qualified with a minimum of five years experience in management accounting.

2. Budgeting, management accounts, preparation of consolidated financial statements.

3. Process Re-engineering Project experience 4. Development Accounting.

5. Knowledge of international accounting standards 6. Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to deal with diverse audience.

7. Attention to detail and flexibility to manage multiple projects Salary ranges from $48,000.00 – $55,000.00/annum.

Qualified applicants are kindly requested to send applications before February 16th 2012

Salary rate will commensurate with experience and ranges from $60, 000.00 $72,000.00

To the attention of:

Edith Cox Group Finance Director Graceway House, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

The position is responsible for the management of all aspects of Graceway Gourmet Supermarket. This includes providing leadership and motivation to promote the consistent execution of standard practices, policies and procedures. Setting the tone and leading the stores culture/environment to ensure success in all aspects of customer service, profitability, operations, people development, merchandise presentation and merchandise assortment.

Deadline for submission of applicants is February 12th 2012

Submit to: Graceway IGA Supermarket main office complex or email: hr@gracewayiga.com 6197

Please note: only short-list applicants will be contacted to attend interviews

6196

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF RECEIVER TURKS AND CAICOS SPORTING CLUB AT AMBERGRIS CAY LTD. Stanfield Greene Suite 205 Graceway House Leeward Highway Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands

Barber with at least 3 years experience must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact: 241-6694 ECO CONSTRUCTION

I, Dean Charles Boyce, of Governor’s Road, Leeward, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands hereby give notice that:

Dated the 16th day of December 2011

6217

FAX: (649) 946-4661 Caicos Café Bar & Grill

KITCHEN HELPER @@Must be hardworking, honest and reliable @@Must have knowledge of kitchen work @@Salary will be based on experience

Contact: 946-5278 FLOWER GIRL

Is looking for a

On the 16th day of December, 2011 I was appointed receiver of your property, assets and undertaking under the powers contained in an Instrument of Appointment dated the 16th day of December, 2011 issued

by British Caribbean Bank Limited of Governor’s Road, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands.

____________________ Dean Charles Boyce Receiver and Manager

Is looking for a

6218

TO:

PABLO BARBER SHOP

Is looking for a

Jointer/ Carpenter With at least 10

years experience

contact: 247-0347

6175

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

February 4 - 10, 2012

6206

32

Flower CoOrdinatoR • Must know different kinds of flowers • Must know how to treat flowers • Must know how to arrange and take care of flowers

Contact: 231-3788

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

POSTIONS AVAILABLE Grand Turk Cruise Center LTD is currently seeking qualified applicants to fill the following position:

Carpenter @@ Applicants must be able to demonstrate proficiency in both rough and finish carpentry and be familiar with the safe and efficient operation of most commonly used power tools. @@ Shape or cut materials to specific measurements using hand tools, machines or power saw. @@ Interpret sketches or basic plans to prepare project layouts and determine dimensions and materials required. @@ Build and repair wooden bridges and buildings. @@ Build or repair fixtures and fittings used in buildings. @@ Erect scaffolding and ladders for assembling structures above ground. @@ Repair or replace damaged or defective parts or sections of structures using hand tools. @@ Finish surfaces of woodwork or wallboard in buildings using paint, hand tools and paneling. @@ Inspect ceiling, floor tile, wall coverings, siding, glass or woodwork to detect broken or damaged structures. @@ Knowledge of plumbing and/or masonry would be an asset.

Applicants must be willing to work nights, weekends and holidays. Must be able to lift min. of 50lbs, speak English and able to work well as part of a culturally diverse team.

SALARY / WAGES BASED ON QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE.

Interested persons should contact: GTCC Human Resources Fax: (649) 946-1041 or E-Mail: admin@grandturkcc.com

6140

February 4 - 10, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES North Caicos is looking for a

Is looking to hire

2 Painters

Is seeking suitable qualified applicants to fill for the following positions:

Applicant must have at least 5 years painting experience, be able to work on weekends as needed. Tasks are not limited to painting only required to assist in other areas of construction sites including cleaning up must be able to work with little or no supervision Salary $6.00 per hour

Labourer To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 246-4769

6205

Deadline for application is February 23, 2012

(3) Labourers / Gardeners

6194

Contact: 649-231-6089 or fax: 649-946-4084

Core Resources Ltd.

DRIVER NEEDED

The Director Suzie Turn Plaza Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands All applications must be sent by January 31st, 2012 to coreresources@gmail.com Persons selected for interview will be contacted by February 6th, 2012 Contact: 649-946-5387

6203

Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty

Seeking Real Estate Sales Associate

• Minimum 3 years experience in landscape maintenance • Responsible for weeding, pruning, trimming all plants on property, sweeping walkways, • Cleaning windows, restrooms and removing of trash and solid waste • Must have good knowledge of gardening techniques and ability to apply pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers properly • Responsible for the upkeep and general look/maintenance of entire grounds • Ability to maintain and repair irrigation systems • Willingness to perform numerous laborious tasks, heavy lifting involved • Willingness to perform all other tasks in relation to general cleaning and or labor • Self motivated and industrious applicants need only apply

(2) Refrigeration Technicians 5 years experience in industrial refrigeration for supermarket storage as well as commercial air conditioning systems. Must hold certificates for both • Experience in repair and diagnostics’ of digital scales and scanning equipment • Technical knowledge in plumbing, electrical and mechanical works, certificates preferred • Installation of new equipment including gas fitting, ability to repair all supermarket equipment • Supervision and development of daily routines of maintenance staff • Development and production of maintenance budgets, including parts and equipment orders • Development and implementation of preventative maintenance schedules • Ability to complete tasks swiftly, problem solving skills a must • Experience in the supermarket maintenance industry preferred • Required to be on call 24 hours Salary: $18,000 per year

Diagnostic - Hydraulic Mechanic

• Fostering good relations with companies in the real estate business and their employees and agents • Participate as a practicing member of the Turks & Caicos Real Estate Association (TCREA) • Keeping proper and organized records of activities and of the properties with which you are associated with • Sales and listing reports • Required to work after hours and weekends as necessary

Qualifications and Responsibilities: • Ten years of successful mechanical repairman experience of a comparable industrial setting.

• Knowledgeable and capable of performing basic welding techniques including out-of-position angles and various fabrication welding.

• Ability to read, understand and apply information from technical manuals, prints, and schematics for trouble shooting and repair.

• Technical College Diploma Hydraulic Mechanic.

• Working knowledge of Computer based record keeping and planning/ scheduling.

• Perform maintenance on fork lifts, pallet jacks, garbage compactors and other equipment • Perform maintenance, troubleshoot and repair hydraulic, electrical and pneumatic systems.

• Willing and able to work weekends, holidays, rotating shifts and both scheduled and unscheduled overtime at a 24 hour/day, 7 day/week, 365 day/ year operation. Must be able to work with minimal supervision.

Applicant Requirements • A minimum of 7 years in Real Estate Sales • Business Degree from a recognized University • Sales Training Courses • Multi Language Skills an asset • Microsoft Computer application knowledge

Salary $18, 000 to $20,000 per annum.

Closing date for applications is February 16th 2012

Interested persons may apply to the Director of Finance Premier Contracting Services Ltd • Graceway House Leeward Highway • Providenciales • Turks & Caicos Islands

Commission Based Remuneration – Application Closing Date – February 15th, 2012.

Please submit CV to: Joe Zahm, Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty, P.O. BOX 279, Venture House, Providenciales, Telephone: 649-946-4474 or Fax: 649-946-4433

Qualification and Responsibilities includes

Salary: $7.00 per hour

Application are invited from suitably qualified and experienced person for a fulltime position as Delivery Driver • Must have a valid driver’s license • Must be able to work on weekends and public holidays Applications with copies of qualifications, two character references, a police record and a testimonial from the most recent place of work must be sent to:

Responsibilities Include • Assist clients in the sale, purchase, letting or leasing of real estate • Introducing new clients and promoting real estate sales and new listings • Promptly notifying the Employer of the particulars of any new listing secured by the Employee, and of any potential listing or potential buyer coming to his/her attention • Performing such administrative functions as the Manager or acting Manager for the time being of the Employer (“the Manager”) may from time to time assign to the Employee • Participating in such meetings, workshops, seminars, conferences, events and functions connected with real estate • Assisting in the preparation and publication or promotional material and media

FAX: (649) 946-4661

PREMIER CONTRACTING SERVICES LTD.

AGNES SWANN

SOUTHERN CONSTRUCTION LTD.

33

6200

Please note: only short-list applicants will be contacted to attend interview

6198

34

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

Baggage Handler contact: 946-8550

6216

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

BEATRICE CASIMIR Is looking for a

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Is looking for an

• Cleaners • Maids • Life guard • Masseuse • Beach/ Pool Attendants • Bartenders • Front Desk Manager • Part-time & live-in positions available immediately

Assistant Manager • Must have at least 10 years experience in restaurant management • Must know Revention Point of Sales System • Must have experience in QuickBooks, Word, Excel Spreadsheets, Public Relations, Advertising, Human Resource, Events Planning for large groups

Please deliver resume with salary expectations to Front Desk preference will be given to qualified Belongers 6229

WAYNE GARLAND

TIKI HUT

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Kitchen Helper To work 6 days

Labourer

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour

6227

contact: 344-6072

HORSE EYE JACK RESTAURANT

Is looking to fill the following positions:

Labourer To work 5 days contact: 441-2808

GRACE BAY SUITES

contact: 231-5074

EXECUTIVE TOURS LTD. Is seeking

LABOURER To work in and around a body shop Duties include: • Greasing of equipment, changing tires, springs, cleaning of shop and compound Starting salary $6.00 per hour (44) forty-four hours per week

AUTO MECHANICAL SHOP SUPERVISOR

Contact: 339-1100

6240

The Turks and Caicos Islands Civil Aviation Authority

Job Opportunity Airworthiness Inspector Base - Grand Turk

Line Authority:

Applications are invited from suitably qualified and experience persons to fill the post of Airworthiness Inspector in the Turks and Caicos Islands Civil Aviation Authority.

6222

Is looking for a

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

6231

WBC MANAGEMENT LTD.

February 4 - 10, 2012

Duties

• Supervising all civilian aircraft maintenance operators and promotion of airworthiness of aircraft.

• Researching and reviewing airworthiness information to ensure international standards of airworthiness are met by aircraft operators within Turks and Caicos Islands.

• Inspecting (annually) all aircraft registered in Turks and Caicos Islands and reviewing licences.

• Authority to inspect any aircraft operating in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

• Annual auditing and re-certification of approved maintenance organizations.

• Carrying out ramp checks on foreign registered aircraft.

• Liaising and working with international airworthiness and flight operations agencies and auditing teams.

• Managing Occurrence Investigations • Examining of Candidates for the issue of TCI Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Licence.

Functional Authority

In line functional authority with the flight Operations Inspector, Airworthiness Inspector and Air Traffic Service Regulator concerning processing, and preparing the application for the executive action.

Preferably ASE certified, ability to speak a second language will be an advantage Duties include: • Trouble shooting & repairs to all electrical & computerized systems • Trouble shooting and repair of transmissions, manual and automatic • Repair suspension and carry out wheel alignment • Maintain daily activity log and liaise with customers Starting salary is $2,400.00 per month, (44) forty-four hours per week

Qualifications

• A High School Graduate with at least 3 CXC/GCE passes including Mathematics and English.

• Aircraft Maintenance Engineer’s Licence issued by an ICAO Contracting State.

• At least 5 years experience as an aircraft maintenance engineer, experience should include: • Knowledge of Civil Aviation and Civil Aviation Law • Airworthiness of aircraft • Working knowledge of flight operations procedures • Knowledge of auditing and administrative experience • A reasonable level of tact, firmness, impartiality and integrity • The personality to win the professional respect and confidence of the operators.

HEAVY DUTY DIESEL MECHANIC Preferably ASE certified Duties Include: • Trouble shooting & repairs to all buses and coasters • Trouble shooting & repairs to all electrical & computerized systems • Trouble shooting & repair of transmissions, manual & automatic Salary starting at $2,200.00 per month (44) forty-four hour per week

Salary payable

• $50,868.00 – 57,888.00 per annum. Starting salary is dependent on qualification and experience.

2 EXPERIENCED AUTO BODY REPAIR & PAINT MAN

Applications giving full details of qualifications and experience should be sent to the

Managing Director Civil Aviation Authority, Hibiscus Square, Grand Turk, facsimile 649-946-1659 or email tswann.caa@tciway.tc or awilliams.caa@tciway.tc

Certified also in chassis repair • Must have 10 years experience • Must work 6 days per week Starting salary $1,200.00 per month, (44) forty-four hours per week

Email: jt_exectours@msn.com or 231-2358/946-4524 6221

to reach no later than 17th February 2012.

6230

February 4 - 10, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664 GLOBAL SERVICES Is looking to fill the following positions:

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

WARD CONSULTANCY

B.E.S.T. INSTITUTE

Acting on behalf of our clients: Complete Construction, Grace Bay Club, After 5 and Carl Jolly

Is looking for a

Is looking to fill the following positions

Cook

Carpenter

– $5.00 per hour

@ $8.00 per hour 7-5pm

Cleaner

2 Labourers

Worker

Catering Supervisor @ $9.50 per hour

Cottage Technician – $7.00 per hour

Room Attendant

Contact: 649-332-5533

6204

@ $5.50 per hour shift work 6186

Contact: 331-1809

Domestic

@ $5.00 per hour 7-5pm

– $5.00 per hour Seamstress $4.50 per hour

35

To work 5 days per week salary negotiable contact: 941-4802 deadline February 17th, 2012

6208

SPA TROPIQUE Is looking for a

Part-Time Assistant to the owner Duties will include but are not limited to: Answering telephone, running errands, inventory, supporting staff, office clerical work, must have own vehicle with clean drivers license, able to work weekends and holidays and nights where needed, applicants must be fluent in speaking, reading and writing English have excellent phone and customer service skills, be willing to learn and absolutely be a hard worker.

Please do not apply unless you have all of the above requirements.

Email resumes to: meryl@spatropique.com Salary commensurate with experience

6207

Positions Available A beachfront Estate on Providenciales is inviting applications for the following positions:

FAX: (649) 946-4661

TCI Waste Disposal

job vacancies Solid Waste Collector/Driver

TCI Waste Disposal Services Ltd is seeking suitable qualified applicants to fill the listed positions as follows:

Operations Manager Main Duties Responsibilities: • Improve the operational systems, processes and policies.

• Manage operational logistics, route planning, maintenance schedules.

• Liaise with customers over projects and ensure services are provided in a timely fashion.

• Oversee overall financial management, planning, systems and controls.

• Manage day to day processing of accounts receivable and payable using QuickBooks, producing reports as requested.

• Payroll management • Contribute to short and long-term organizational planning and strategy.

Skills required: • Experience in waste management operations.

• Strong background and work experience in Finance.

• Excellent computer skills and proficient in excel, word, outlook, and access.

• Excellent communication skills both verbal and written.

• 3 plus years experience in bookkeeping.

• Knowledge and experience in organizational effectiveness and operations management implementing best practices.

• Demonstrated leadership and vision in managing staff groups and major projects or initiatives.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and a collaborative management style.

• Budget development and oversight experience.

• A demonstrated commitment to high professional ethical standards.

• High comfort level working in a diverse environment.

Salary will be compensated base on experience and qualification

Marketing Manager

Sommelier

• Knowledge and Skills: • Must have extensive knowledge of fine wines and will be required to assist the Chef.

• Requirements: Prior work experience in luxury villas; possess a clean driver’s license and will be required to live on property. Salary range is: $12000.00 per annum.

Live in Housekeeper

The applicant must have prior experience as a Housekeeper and will be required to live on property. Salary payable is: $12,000.00 per annum Submit applications by February 14th, 2012 to:

Misick & Stanbrook Leeward Highway Providenciales Tel: 946-4732 Fax 946-4734 Email info@misickstanbrook.tc

Responsible for developing and maintaining marketing strategies. Evaluates customer research, market conditions, competitor data and implements marketing plan changes as needed. Oversees all marketing, advertising and promotional staff and activities.

Main Duties and Responsibilities: • Develops annual marketing plan, which will focus on meeting organizational objectives.

• Manage the marketing budget.

• Manage all aspects of print production, receipt and distribution.

• Manage frequent, timely and positive media coverage.

• Specifying market requirements for current and future products by conducting market research supported by on-going visits to customers and non-customers.

Skills required: • Experience in all aspects of developing and maintaining marketing strategies to meet organizational objectives • Strong communication, excellent written presentation, oral communications and interpersonal skills.

• Strong leadership skills, be able to motivate and influence others.

• Individual must be able to think creatively and strategically and have excellent judgment.

• A demonstrated commitment to high professional ethical standards.

• Excellent people manager, open to direction and collaborative work style and commitment to get the job done.

• High comfort level working in a diverse environment.

Salary will be compensated base on experience and qualification

6202

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Closing date for application is: February 16th 2012 PLEASE SUBMIT APPLICATIONS TO

TCI Waste Disposal Blue Hills Back road Providenciales Turks and Caicos Please note: only short-listed applicants will be contacted to attend interview 6199

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

February 4 - 10, 2012

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Compliance Officer

KITEBOARDING INSTRUCTOR NEEDED

Compliance Officer requires to perform this role within varying industry types locally and globally.

PASA Kite boarding Instructor required to provide kite instruction, lead kite board excursions, and conduct all required kite equipment maintenance.

Base salary starts at $350 per week, 6-days per week for a minimum of 6hrs per day. Only experienced and qualified instructors need apply.

Send resumes to bigblue@tciway.tc And follow-up by phone to 946-5034.

Deadline is the 10th February 2012.

6236

Accounts Assistant

Qualifications: • Degree in Finance, Commerce or Accounting (or equivalent) • Excellent written, verbal and communication skills • Previous experience in automotive dealership preferred • Duties & responsibilities: • Daily input of transactions to accounting software • Preparation of financial statements and in-house reports • Bank, A/R, A/P Reconciliations, bank deposits, petty cash management • Purchases and billing audit Salary commensurate with experience

Compensation based on experience and qualifications.

Send applications to reach by the 15th February to

info@karammissick.com

Candidates can forward a detailed resume to mariec@bayviewmotors.com or drop off at the reception desk at Bayview Motors.

6238

Bayview Motors Is in need of filling the position of

General Manager Successful applicants must possess the following qualifications:

• Previous experience in managing a similar size automotive dealership • Must be familiar with all facets of the management of an automotive dealership • Experience in managing a busy automotive service department • Experience with collision estimation

Please send resumes via email to: mariec@bayviewmotors.com

6261

Public Notice The public is advised that the office of

J.S. Johnson Insurance Agents & Brokers

• Experience in automotive sales, including vehicle purchasing, and manufacturer pricing negotiation • General knowledge of automotive mechanics a definite asset • Excellent communication, writing, and computer skills Starting salary approximately $50k/ year, but commensurate with experience

has moved to

6237

Those applicants with required qualifications will be contacted for interview. BELONG ONLY NEED APPLY

FOR SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION TITLE 60904/128 LEEWARD GOING THOUGH, PROVIDENCIALES

• A 0.62 ACRE RESIDENTIAL BUILDING LOT IN A QUIET SECTION OF LEEWARD LOCATED JUST OFF PRINCE OF WALES ROAD ON SEAGULL ALLEY WITH APPROXIMATELY 100 FT. OF ROAD FRONTAGE WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OF PELICAN BEACH. POWER AND WATER SUPPLY AVAILABLE TO LOT LINE. • PROPERTY OF ANTONIA ZENDBIA KEMP • THE AUCTION WILL BE HELD AT THE OFFICES OF TWA, MARCELIN, WOLF, CHANCERY COURT, 1276 LEEWARD HIGHWAY, PROVIDENCIALES AT 10:00 A.M. ON FRIDAY MARCH 2, 2012.

FOR FURTHER PARTICULARS PLEASE CONTACT TWA, MARCELIN, WOLF AT: tmw@tmwlaw.tc reference “Auction” or call 649-946-4261

Responsibilities • Develop and revise compliance programs (for our clients) and ensure compliance with the appropriate laws and regulations as well internal policies and procedures; • Ensure clients timely communication of changing laws and procedures and work proactively to implement as soon as reasonably practicable; • Provide periodic reports as well as risk assessments in a timely and accurate manner; • Provide compliance training sessions in accordance with the regulations; • Certify clients files for KYC requirements and perform due and enhance due diligence on a risk based method; • Perform all functions of compliance as expected with the profession including transactions reviews, disclosures obligation and liaising with the authorities.

Requirements • CAMS certified or equivalent a must; • Post graduate degree in finance, risk management or banking; • Minimum of five years experience in compliance and at senior management level; • Knowledge of local and international applicable laws and best practices including all aspects of compliance programs plus understanding of financial services industries compliance requirements; • Strong research skills, organized, proactive, auditing skills and attention to detail as well as strong communication skills; • Work well under pressure and ability to meet deadlines at short notice.

BAYVIEW MOTORS

Only qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview

FAX: (649) 946-4661

6209

Unit B103 Graceway Plaza (IGA) Leeward Highway, Providenciales.

We continue to provide all classes of Insurance:

@Commercial @ @Marine @ @Accident @ @Aviation @ @Homes @ @Health @ @Motor @ @Life @ Call us today: 946-4761/ 941-5624/941-3412 Get the “Peace of mind” that comes with every policy.

6232

36

February 4 - 10, 2012

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports International

37

Milan lose ground in Serie A title race; Barcelona held in Copa del Rey

Shane Williams

Shane Williams, Wales and Ospreys great, to retire SHANE Williams will retire from all rugby at the end of this season, BBC Sport Wales understands.

Wales’ record try scorer quit Test rugby in December, with 58 tries in 87 games for his country and two in four Tests for the British and Irish Lions.

Wing Williams, who turns 35 this month, has a contract with the Ospreys until the end of the 2012-13 season.

The Welsh region had also offered Williams a year extension, but he has decided to hang up his boots for good.

Williams signed off from the

international stage in typical fashion, scoring a last-gasp try in the 18-24 defeat to Australia in Cardiff on 3 December.

“He has been amazing for Wales, Ospreys and the Lions,” Wales skills and kicking coach Neil Jenkins said.

“He is a huge player, a Welsh rugby great, and he will be sorely missed.

“It is difficult - and I have done it myself - when you come to the end of your international career.

“That is what you have played for all your life and Shane is no different to me. He feels the time is right, and only he knows. (BBC)

AC MILAN’S Serie A title hopes were dealt a blow as they lost 2-0 at Lazio Wednesday while city rivals Inter shared eight goals in a thriller against Palermo.

Milan trail Juve by a point at the top but the leaders have a game after their match at Parma on Tuesday night was called off due to snow.

Third-placed Udinese took advantage to cut the gap to three points with a 2-1 win at home to Lecce while fourth-placed Lazio are now just two points behind after their fine win.

Milan’s match in the capital saw them force the early pace but in the second half Lazio came more into the match and 14 minutes from time Hernanes was put through and he hooked the ball home.

Tommaso Rocchi’s late second sealed the three points for Lazio to boost their title hopes.

Diego Milito scored all four Inter goals at the San Siro, but his team could not seal the three points as Fabrizio Miccoli grabbed a hat-trick for the visitors.

The snow-covered pitch made for an exciting game and Milito twice put them ahead in the second half only for Josip Ilicic to play in Miccoli to complete his treble and equalize for the final time.

Tommaso Rocchi celebrates after scoring their second in the 2-0 win over AC Milan.

In the Copa del Rey, Barcelona were held 1-1 at Valencia in their semifinal first leg tie in the Mestella.

Lionel Messi had a penalty saved after Carlos Puyol had leveled Jonas’ opener for the hosts. Valencia went ahead in the 27th minute when Jeremy Mathieu pulled the ball back for Jonas to sidefoot home.

But defender Puyol headed Barcelona level in the 35th minute.

Messi’s penalty miss came after 56 minutes as Alvez pushed his shot away.

Barca substitute Dani Alves hit the post but they could not find a

winner.

In the English Premier League, Newcastle moved up to fifth spot and kept up their challenge for Champions League football with a 2-0 win at struggling Blackburn.

Ryan Taylor’s shot took a huge deflection off Scott Dann to put Newcastle ahead before the home side created a deluge of chances to level.

Danny Simpson cleared off the line and Leon Best headed against his own bar before David Dunn saw his penalty saved by Tim Krul in the visiting goal.

Mali qualifies behind Ghana after 2-1 win over Botswana

Is looking for a qualified

Is looking to fill the following positions:

T & R ELECTRONICS RENTAL & SALES SERVICES Is looking for a

Cashier

Contact: 344-4540

6234

Salary $5.50 per hour Cosmetologist salary $6.00 per hour. Must be able to work 6 days per week.

Cosmetologist Salary $200 per week

contact: 334-5550

Electronic Technician – Salary $8.00 per hour

Must be willing to work 6 days per week 6233

Cashier

– salary $5.00 per hour

Contact: 244-9984 or 342-5989 6235

Mali players surround Seydou Keita after he scores the winning goal in their 2-1 victory over Botswana.

ALBERT MUSGROVE

TROPICANA UPHOLSTERY Is looking for a

Domestic Worker To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 241-4070

MANGO REEF

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Labourer Waitress To work 6 days To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 231-0271

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 941-6602

6243

P J’S BARBER SHOP

Dembele to volley home.

Mali substitute Ousmane Coulibaly hit the crossbar with an effort before Tidiane Cheick Diabete set up Keita to net from close range with 15 minutes left.

The Mali players had to wait until the Ghana-Guinea game had finished to make sure they went through, at the result celebrating wildly their passage to the last eight.

6243

MAJOR’S BEAUTY SALONG

It earned Mali, reaching this stage for the first time in eight years, a match against their coach Alain Giresse’s former team, co-hosts Gabon.

Botswana opened the scoring in Libreville six minutes into the second half with Moemedi Moatlaping converting after a fine move.

Mali leveled after 56 minutes when Abdou Traore crossed for

6239

MALI beat Botswana 2-1 Wednesday to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals from Group D of the competition.

Goals from Garra Dembele and Barcelona star Seydou Keita with the winner secured the runners-up spot from the group behind Ghana, who were held 1-1 by Guinea in a match played at the same time in Franceville.

38

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 4 - 10, 2012

Mohammad Amir served only three months of his sentence.

Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Amir released from jail

Footballers trying to get away from the wild crowd.

Egypt football riot: Club coach saw ‘fans die’ after pitch invasion AN EGYPTIAN club coach has told how he was “beaten with fists and sticks” and saw fans killed during a pitch invasion which left 79 people dead.

Manuel Jose, coach of Cairo club al-Ahly, has returned home to Portugal following the riots which erupted at the end of the game against al-Masry in Port Said on Wednesday.

“I was beaten with fists and kicks to the neck, head and feet,” said Jose.

“I saw our fans die before us and we were unable to do anything.”

Many fans suffocated after becoming trapped in a narrow corridor as they fled the violence, according to reports.

Some people feel the police and security forces did not do enough to

intervene.

Al-Ahly assistant coach Pedro Barny said: “What happened was an unspeakable catastrophe.

“From the beginning of the game, the fans of the opposing team were allowed to fire rockets and stones at us without any intervention.

“In the end, it turned into a state of madness without any role for the security in the stands.

“We tried to save the lives of some of the fans, but many died before our eyes.”

Jose, 65, has played for and managed Benfica in a long managerial career, but says this experience has changed his life.

He told the al-Ahly club website: “Nothing happened to any of the players but we feel overwhelming

sadness and the return flight [home to Portugal] was made in silence, full of respect for the lives of our fans who died.

“I have to think about my life differently now. Although everybody loves me greatly here, this experience has changed my life completely.”

The Egyptian Football Federation has suspended all leagues in the country.

A statement read: “The Egyptian federation has decided to stop the football leagues in all four divisions for an indefinite period after the violence that occurred in the game between al-Masry and al-Ahly, which represented a tragic shock to the centre of sport in general and the football family in particular.” (BBC)

source.

Reading’s Jason Roberts has said that Terry should not play at Euro 2012.

Roberts, who is also a pundit for BBC Radio 5 live, has warned that Terry’s presence at the tournament would have a “toxic” effect on the England dressing room.

The tournament runs between 8 June and 1 July, before the start of Terry’s trial. (BBC)

players for a tournament.

Majeed promised him that Asif and Amir would deliver three noballs at specific points during the Test between Pakistan and England at Lord’s on 26-29 August, and claimed to have been fixing games for over two years, with seven Pakistan players working for him.

At the trial, judge Mr Justice Cooke, said Amir was “unsophisticated, uneducated and impressionable” and “readily leant on by others”.

Amir, who admitted bowling two intentional no-balls at Lord’s, was named player of the series, and many cricket commentators said they hoped the teenager would be given a second chance in his career. (BBC)

The super-fight between Mayweather and Pacquiao would not take place in May.

Floyd Mayweather to fight Miguel Cotto in May

John Terry ‘will not stand down as England captain’ JOHN Terry will not resign as England captain despite facing trial over racial abuse allegations, according to a source close to the player.

The Chelsea defender is due to face charges on 9 July after an incident involving QPR’s Anton Ferdinand in the teams’ Premier League match in October.

“He won’t stand down. He is sure of his innocence and thus feels it would be wrong to do so,” said the

PAKISTAN cricketer Mohammad Amir has been released from jail after serving half of a six-month sentence for his part in a fixing scam.

The 19-year-old was released from Portland Prison in Dorset on Wednesday morning.

In November, Amir and teammates Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif were jailed for a plot to bowl deliberate no balls in a Test match against England in 2010.

All three players were also given five-year playing bans.

The fixing scandal came to light when an undercover News of the World reporter approached sports agent Mazhar Majeed, who was also jailed for his role, pretending to be a wealthy Indian businessman seeking

John Terry says he is sure of his innocence.

FLOYD Mayweather will step back up in weight to fight Miguel Cotto for his WBA light-middleweight title on 5 May at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

The fight ends speculation that Mayweather would fight Manny Pacquiao in a super-fight in May. “It will be a challenge for me to compete with him at this weight, but this is the type of test I thrive on,” said Mayweather, 34.

Cotto responded: “On 5 May I will convincingly beat Floyd Mayweather.”

He added: “I am here to fight the

biggest names in boxing. I’ve never ducked anyone or any challenge in front of me.”

Mayweather is due to serve an 87-day prison sentence for a domestic violence conviction but the Las Vegas authorities have deferred his sentence until 1 June and granted him a one-fight licence to allow the Cotto fight to take place.

“Miguel Cotto is a world-class fighter who can never be taken for granted and continues to prove he is one of the best in boxing,” added Mayweather.

February 4 - 10, 2012

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

39

Angelo Dundee helped a young Cassius Clay transform himself into the world heavyweight champion. Here he tapes the renamed Muhammad Ali’s hands as a training session ahead of a 1966 bout with British champion Henry Cooper.

Famed boxing trainer Angelo Dundee dies

LEGENDARY cornerman Angelo Dundee, the man who helped motivate Muhammad Ali and many other boxing champs, died Wednesday, a source close to Ali said.

He was 90. Dundee died Wednesday in Florida from natural causes, Dundee’s son Jimmy Dundee told CNN affiliate WFTS. Dundee, known for being a supreme motivator, was inducted in the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1992. His biography on its website reads like a who’s who list of boxing royalty.

He was hired to be Ali’s trainer and cornerman in 1960 back when the brash-talking, quick-jabbing boxer went by the name Cassius Clay. Dundee was there through Ali’s historic name change, his brawls with George Foreman, “Smokin” Joe Frazier, Ken Norton and Leon Spinks.

He was there all the way toward the end of Ali’s career in his punishing loss to Larry Holmes in 1980. After watching Ali get battered for round after round, Dundee stopped the fight after the 10th round fighting off objections from others in the corner and the bruised and puffy-eyed Ali. Loquacious sports analyst

Howard Cosell described the scene in the corner this way.

“This fight should be stopped.

Angelo is telling the referee to stop it. He would not give in. Angelo Dundee. He cared about his fighter too much.”

Dundee was also in the corner of Sugar Ray Leonard giving sage advice during some of Leonard’s most memorable fights.

During Leonard’s 1981 battle with Tommy Hearns, Dundee uttered the emphatic phrase that some say spurred the listless boxer to a dramatic comeback. Sensing that Leonard was behind on the judge’s scorecards before the 13th round, Dundee leaned close to Leonard and said in a fatherly tone: “You’re blowing it now son! You’re blowing it.”

Leonard snapped out of it and knocked Hearns out in the 14th round to gain another welterweight championship.

Dundee started his career training Hall Fame boxer Carmen Basilio and also trained champs Jimmy Ellis, Luis Rodriguez, Sugar Ramos, Ralph Dupas and Willie Pastrano.

“Dad lived a great life, and he did a great job living it,” Jimmy Dundee told WFTS. (CNN)

Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button are ready for the new season.

McLaren team reveal new car for 2012 Formula 1 season MCLAREN have unveiled the car Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button hope will win one of them the drivers’ title.

Hamilton described the MP4-27, unveiled at the team’s Surrey base, as “the finest-looking car we’ve had for some time”.

The car features a notably tightly packaged rear end, after the fashion of the Red Bull that has dominated Formula 1 for the last two seasons.

“We’re excited. I’m sure every team is a little apprehensive,” Button said.

Among other notable features, the car does not have the platypusstyle nose that is expected to feature on many designs this year as a result of a change in the rules requiring a lower nose height.

Lewis Hamilton won the drivers’ world title in a McLaren in 2008, with Jenson Button winning the championship in a Brawn a year later.

But Red Bull have won the last two constructors’ championship, with Sebastian Vettel securing the

drivers’ title in both seasons .

McLaren have not won the constructors’ title since 1998.

Button added: “This is a beautiful car - many you will see will not be.

“There are some good rule changes giving the engineers and aerodynamicists something to really think about.

“Everyone seems positive, we will see how it is when we get out on to the track.”

McLaren have also abandoned the distinctive L-shaped sidepods that distinguished the 2011 car, reverting to a more conventional shape.

Hamilton said: “The back of the car is much neater, it’s much tighter.

The focus was on getting it as tight as possible for aerodynamics.

“It’s about dropping drag and we have tried to get as much downforce back as possible with the banning of the blown diffuser [where teams directed exhaust gases along the rear floor of the car even when the driver was off the throttle].”

He said that the rule change had made an obvious difference

to the way the car feels, having already driven it in the team’s simulator.

Hamilton added: “It’s a lot trickier to drive now than it was but I’m sure, as we get into the season, we’ll get that back.”

Both men said they were looking forward to the challenge of the new season, which features six world champions for the first time in F1 history.

Kimi Raikkonen has returned to F1 with the Lotus team after two years in rallying, to join fellow champions Michael Schumacher, Fernando Alonso, Sebastian Vettel, Hamilton and Button.

“We love to have the competition and we love to have the great drivers out there,” Hamilton said. “We hope there are no world champions added to [the list].

“It’s great for the fans and the sport and hopefully we’ll be able to put on a good show. We do have a good looking car and, when a car looks good, it generally is good.”

(BBC)

Former No. 1 Wozniacki fires coach after two months

Caroline Wozniacki slipped to fourth in the WTA rankings.

FORMER world No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki has fired Spanish coach Ricardo Sanchez after just two months and decided to return to working with her father Piotr.

The Dane slipped to fourth in the WTA rankings after a quarterfinal exit at the recent Australian Open, where she once again failed to secure

a first grand slam title.

Troels Christensen, a journalist with the Danish newspaper Ekstra Bladet, told CNN how Sanchez had struggled to penetrate the close bond Wozniacki enjoys with her Polandborn father.

“Caroline and Piotr are mentally very tight,” Christensen said. “It’s

very hard to break into the circle. He is not the first one has experienced that.

“It was more Piotr’s idea than Caroline’s and I don’t think she ever got used to him. They had agreed that they should sit down after the Australian Open and discuss the situation.” (CNN)

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Only world record holder Yelena Isinbayeva of Russia has gone higher, with a clearance of 5m.

Asafa Powell and Usain Bolt and fellow Jamaican Yohan Blake (not in picture) can take the first three places in the 100M at this year’s Olympics.

Powell predicts Olympics 100m clean sweep for Jamaica ASAFA Powell won the 50m at the US Open - then predicted a Jamaican clean sweep of the 100m medals at London 2012 .

Powell has run the most sub 10-second 100m races in history, while Usain Bolt is the world record holder and Yohan Blake ranked world number one.

“Yes, it is very possible. Surely it can be done,” said Powell after clocking 5.64 seconds on Saturday.

“We have some amazing runners.”

He beat compatriot Nesta Carter (5.67) and American Trell Kimmons (5.68).

Justin Gatlin, also from America, finished fourth (5.71) in the rarely contested event.

The world record - 5.56 seconds is held jointly by Canada’s Donovan Bailey and American Maurice Greene.

“Nothing’s ever certain, not even for Usain Bolt,” added Powell, who was making his first indoor appearance since 2004.

“To run this well this early in the season is very promising. I’m very fit right now. But I’m still not fast.”

Powell, the former world 100m record holder, is due to make his British indoor debut at the Birmingham Grand Prix on 18 February.

The 29-year-old, who will be based in Birmingham with the rest of the Jamaica squad ahead of the Olympics , has a 100m personal best of 9.72 seconds. (BBC)

Bleasdale smashes own British pole vault record POLE vaulter Holly Bleasdale smashed her own British indoor record and moved to second on the all-time world list with a clearance of 4.87m in Lyon.

The 20-year-old improved her record by one centimetre in going over at 4.72m, and managed 4.80m at the first attempt.

She then cleared 4.87m at the

third attempt to win the event and assume the lead in the world rankings.

Only world record holder Yelena Isinbayeva of Russia has gone higher, with a clearance of 5m.

In attempting to beat that record, Bleasdale failed to clear 5.01m, but was nonetheless satisfied with what she achieved in France. (BBC)

Nash passes KJ into first on Suns dish list WHEN Steve Nash began his NBA career back in 1996, he was the third point guard on the Suns’ depth chart.

Now he’s officially the best passer in franchise history.

As a rookie, Nash looked up to Suns legend Kevin Johnson, who he backed up in the club’s rotation.

Fast forward to the present, and now Johnson is looking up at Nash, literally.

En route to a 30-point and 10-assist Wednesday night that saw the visiting Suns defeat the Hornets, Nash surpassed Kevin Johnson’s mark of 6,518 career assists, moving into first place on the Suns’ all-time assists list.

“To be honest, it pales in comparison to getting the win,” Nash told the Associated Press after the game.

“The things that really matter about (the record) is: One, to be up there with Kevin, who was a great, great player and deserves a lot of credit for what type of player he was. And then the other one, just I love the city and organisation and to do it for the Suns is a real honour. But other than that I’m just glad the team got the win.”

When the two-time MVP reminisces about his early days in the NBA, he recalls the competitiveness

Mo Farah is a complete athlete according to UK athletics head coach Van Commenee.

Olympics 2012: Van Commenee hails ‘complete’ Mo Farah Steve Nash is now ranked sixth on the all-time NBA assist list.

that Johnson played with and the belief that the current Sacramento mayor instilled in him. Johnson encouraged Nash, reminding him that he was just as talented as anyone else in the league.

“Kevin was great to learn and watch from,” Nash said. “I got a lot of confidence from being around him. It was a great opportunity to learn from him.”

Johnson has held the record since April 2, 1993, when he passed Suns great Alvan Adams, the franchise’s previous all-time leader. But after standing unbeaten for nearly 19 years, the Suns assist title now lies in

Nash’s hands.

To put his excellence in perspective, no player since the start of the 2004-05 season has more assists than Nash: nor does any player since the beginning of the 2005-06 season, the 2006-07 season, the 2007-08 season, the 2008-09 season, the 2009-10 season, the 2010-11 season or this season.

And not only is he writing himself into the Suns’ record books, the club’s co-captain is also etching himself into the league’s. Nash now has 9,441 assists in his NBA career, which ranks sixth all-time in the NBA.

UK ATHLETICS head coach Charles van Commenee believes 5000m world champion Mo Farah is “a complete athlete”.

Farah, 28, won Saturday’s 1500m event in Glasgow after outsprinting Augustine Choge - the fastest man in the world over the distance indoors in 2011.

“In the 2011 World Championships 10km, he was taken by surprise but he is warned now - he’s a complete athlete,” said Van Commenee.

“Mo at the moment is the number one, but there are a few who can take over.”

Farah had only arrived back in Britain two days before the race, having spent five weeks’ altitude training in Kenya.

His victory at the weekend helped Great Britain and Northern Ireland

seal victory in the five-team event.

“We’ll remember that race for a while,” added Dutchman Van Commenee. “It was fantastic.

“Beating the world leader is quite special. It’s not his distance, so it’s very pleasing to see the world champion over 5000m beat the best athlete over 1500m.

“That’s very encouraging.”

Mark Lewis-Francis (60m), Danny Talbot (200m), Margaret Adeoye (200m), Joe Thomas (800m), Jeanette Kwakye (60m) and Yamile Aldama (triple jump) also claimed victory at Kelvin Hall.

“It was very pleasing to see we had a new name like Margaret,” said Van Commenee.

“Danny and Joe are not new but they made a mark here.

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Provo Hockey League:

Gators beat Lobsters, draw with Owls

THE GANSEVOORT Gators edged past the Sailrock Lobsters 7-6 before drawing with the Gracebay Car Rentals and Sales Owls, 6-6, in the latest Mini Division games of the Provo Hockey League at the Graceway Sports Centre.

Carson Greatrex scored four goals to lead the Gators in their victory, while support came from Dylan Ayer (two goals) and Zachary Scholar (one goal).

The Lobsters were lead by Joe Canham who scored three goals and made an assist and Joshua Saunders who added two with an assist. Khalid Fulford supported with a single successful strike.

Greatrex and Ayer scored twice and made two assists each against the Owls. Dylan Brubaker led the Owls’ attack with four goals and an assist while Tristan Grandsire added a pair.

BANTAM DIVISION The Pearl Residences at Gracebay Beach Ltd Sharks suffered mix fortunes after they lost 5-7 to the Saunders and Co. Hurricanes before defeating the Coco Bistro Lightning 6-2.

Livingston Ferdinand continued his fine scoring for the Hurricanes after he beat the opposing goalie six times. Liam Delancy added the other while there was one assist each for Benjamin Saunders and Bradley Ayer.

For the Sharks Darius Coackley Jr. scored twice while Cole Nickson (also two assists), Kyle Cox and

The Gators’ Carson Greatrex scored four goals against the Lobsters.

Orrin Campbell scored one goal each.

In the second Bantam Division game Nickson had four goals and an assist while there was a goal and assist for Cox, a goal for Darius Coackley and an assist each for Campbell and Amory Chesterson.

Ricaldo Valcin and Javiera Bovell had a goal and an assist each for the Lightning.

MIDGET DIVISION The Twa Marcelin Wolf Pirates defeated the J&W Construction

WIV Provo Premier League:

Cheshire Hall FC defeat Pedagogue FC 3-0 CHESHIRE Hall Football Club defeated the Pedagogue FC 3-0 in the lone game of Week Two, last Saturday, in the WIV Provo Premier League at the TCIFA’s Academy ground after Yohan Grant dominated the attack.

The first half was a tight affair with both teams creating chances, however Cheshire Hall who were making their first appearance of the season were more on the front foot and were managing to get more players forward than their opponents.

Having said that, Carlington Smith and Ian Chang seemed to be creating a few chances and Chang will be ruing missed opportunities during a couple of breakaway one on ones.

Cheshire Hall opened the scoring with a fine far post header from Lenford Singh from an equally good

corner from Grant. The first half continued in this vein, but Cheshire Hall re-organised and no further goals were scored.

In the second half the Pedagogue players began to tire more than the Cheshire Hall FC (who have mostly played together in other competitions this year); the more energetic side capitalised with more attacks, one such foray resulted in a goal for Grant from a Navar Cumberland cross. The last goal was unusual, directed from yet another dangerous corner from Grant, one of the best players on the field; but this time he managed to put it straight in.

Grant was later named the President’s Player of the week for at least three great corners, one of which surged past the goalie.

Flames 7-4 and the Carib Gaming Panthers 8-3 last Saturday.

Against the Flames Miguel Malcolm scored three goals and made two assists while Gabriel Diotte-Joly had two goals and one assist. Myrhon Pereira also scored two goals. The Flames were led by

Dylan Brubaker scored four goals and made one assist for the Owls against the Gators.

Quinn Higgs who scored three times and made an assist; Kennon Higgs added a goal while Kaylam Pratt made an assist.

In the clash against the Panthers, Malcolm again led the attack with five goals and three assists for the Pirates while Diotte-Joly scored

twice and made three assists. JJ Affleck scored the other goal while Maya Saunders made an assist.

For the Panthers Rajhan Munnings scored twice and made an assist while Christian Robinson scored the other goal and Jeffrey Been made an assist.

Girls’ rugby important to the TCIRFU GIRLS’ RUGBY is essential to the development of the Turks and Caicos Islands Rugby Football Union says President Keith Burant.

Burant, who along with Sandra Shaw launched the programme in 2011 for females 8-18, said that the sport is growing in the region at the female level.

“Women’s rugby is an area that is getting a lot of attention in the Caribbean region and we want to harness that attention and grow the sport here. Rugby is a great test for everyone taking part that requires speed, strength and skill to succeed.”

Burant said that the introduction of girl’s rugby had been a great success in 2011 and that the TCIRFU hopes that it would continue to grow in 2012.

Shaw thanked Rebecca Hingston, Nik Hight and Paul Dempsey who have given their time to help with the girl’s programme. “We’re particularly happy to have Franco Mompremier and Kalem Pratt from the boy’s rugby passing on what they have learned to the female players.”

The 2012 Girl’s Rugby season will be launched on Saturday February 11th at 10.30h with a registration day and BBQ at the Meridian Field at the Village at Grace Bay where the girls will also have an opportunity to watch a number of the Under 19 teams play in league matches. New players are always welcomed.

Girls rugby is important to the development of the TCIRFU.

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Church softball coming soon

– Marjorie Basden girls take high school title, senior league starts in April THIRTEEN churches in Providenciales have already indicated their interest to take part in the Turks and Caicos Softball Federation’s Church League.

Information from the federation indicates that a date for the league will be set soon, so other churches still have a chance to register. Already the body has held a successful High School Female Softball Championships with Marjorie Basden taking the spoils. Players are also preparing for the senior league which will start on April 6.

HIGH SCHOOL ACTION In the High School Softball Championships last week Marjorie Basden High had to overcome a pumped up Clement Howell team in the final clash at the Downtown Ball

Park.

With two outstanding pitchers in the mix: Angena Monher from the Providenciales school and one of TCI’s most decorated junior female field athlete Dujuana Fulford from South Caicos the game was always going to be a ding-dong battle.

The Clement Howell girls were down by five at the top of the seventh inning and came back to tie the game, which forced it into the eighth.

In this inning the eventual second place finishers were up by one run, but Marjorie Basden showed their superiority to walk away as female champs.

Fulford was named the most valuable player and the best pitcher.

British Collegiate took the third place trophy with a 17-10 run victory over Raymond Gardiner.

Dujuana Fulford, who was named the MVP and Best Pitcher, receives her trophy from Director of Sport Alvin Parker.

Second place finishers Clement Howell High School.

Winners of the High School Female Softball Championships, Marjorie Basden.

PABA All Star Weekend:

East vs. West expected to be scorcher THE most dominant athletes in the Provo Amateur Basketball Association’s (PABA) League will battle each other in a clash of supremacy when the All Star Weekend pits the East vs. the West showdown next Saturday at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex.

The players were selected according to the geographic location of their teams.

Players from the Predators, Police, Knights, Flyers and Cobras will make up the West while South Caicos, Kingston Lions,

Steelers, Customs and the Filipinos make up the East.

The All Star Weekend activities tips off with the PABA Annual General Meeting for all players and coaches at 19:00h on Monday February 6th, while the action bounces off next Friday night with the international clashes: Haiti will battle the Dominicans while the Bahamas will play the Turks and Caicos Islands. This will be followed by the three point shootout and slam dunk competition.

Action tips off with a fun day on Saturday from 10:00h with games starting in the evening. At 19:00h Pastors will play Coaches, WIV will challenge PTV and LIME will tackle Digicel.

The feature clash: East vs. West is scheduled for 21:00h (9: PM).

The East players are as followed: South Caicos: Duran Dean, Jonathon Paul and Kirk Adams, Lions: Damion Seymour, Harry Taylor, Arvi Adams; Customs: E. Taylor and D. Hanna; Steelers: Devin Cox and Cameron

Henry; Filipinos: Jai Cabrera and Andrup Macalino; Coaches are: Duval Penn and John Williams.

The West will include: Flyers: Rudy Fulford, Chad Campbell and Anthony Cash; The Predators: Troy Saunders, Roger Martinez and Micheal Taylor; the Knights: Saundro Jermain and Dubois Evans; the Police: Kjuana Doughty and Denzil Smith; the Cobras: Gino Agenor and Rico Claire.

The coaches are: Keith Cox and Kevin Harvey.

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