Turks and Caicos Weekly News by TC Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 26 | No. 51 | December 20 – January 11, 2013

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I will not back down from a fight, Premier Ewing PAGE 5

Sloop avoids detection

Of 100 illegal migrants 46 apprehended

PAGE  5

Development agreement to restart works on West PAGE  7 Caicos signed No official communication to Gov’t on Mike Misick’s condition, Ewing PAGE  5

ON THE WEB tcweeklynews.com

SKIPPINGS VOTED OUT Cartwright-Robinson is new leader, Astwood is deputy leader OSWALD Skippings was voted out as leader of the Peoples’ Democratic Movement (PDM) and Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson and Sean Astwood were unanimously nominated as the new leader and deputy leader, respectively. To all our readers from the Weekly News. We wish you all the best for the season and the New Year. Our next publication will be out on January 11, 2013

Christmas at Kids Camp

In the spirit of this joyous season and in anticipation of a visit from Santa Claus, cheerful children at the Graceway Sports Centre Kids Camp gathered around the Christmas tree to wish all a Merry Christmas.

PAGE 5

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Cartwright-Robinson new leader, Sean Astwood is deputy leader BY VANESSA NARINE OSWALD Skippings was voted out as leader of the Peoples’ Democratic Movement (PDM) and Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson and Sean Astwood were unanimously nominated as the new leader and deputy leader, respectively. Both nominations were uncontested at a Special Convention held at the party’s headquarters in downtown Providenciales on Saturday, December 15. When the Weekly News contacted Skippings, he declined to comment on the outcome of the Special Convention. He said, “I do not wish to comment, but I will say that I wish the party well.” The new party leader, commenting on her new role, noted that her team will work to ensure that the plans outlined in PDM’s blueprint are achieved. According to her, the other area of focus is the three election petitions that are currently before the courts, which could result in the PDM

becoming the Government in the very near future. The newly elected leader stated that she wishes to see all former leaders of the party playing an active role in the People’s Democratic Movement as they all have made significant contributions to the party. Cartwright-Robinson recently became the Leader of the Opposition in the House of Assembly, making history as the first female in that post. She makes history again by becoming the first female leader of any political party in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Like the new leader, Sean Astwood belongs to the party’s team of seven elected members of the Opposition in the House of Assembly. Astwood told the Weekly News that part of the Opposition’s main goal and responsibility is to keep the government of the day accountable. He said, “Our manifesto includes sound policies for country and we will carry out our function to ensure that governance is built on just that. “The PDM and PNP have similar

Oswald Skippings

Sean Astwood

manifestos, so right now it is a matter of methodology, but we will work with the government and will not be an Opposition just for the sake of opposing.

“Our aim has been, as always, to develop in the interest of bettering the Turks and Caicos Islands.” According to him, the PDM will be ensuring stronger than normal

representation on House committees to ensure accountability and transparency, in the interest of good governance. Astwood held the post of deputy leader before, from 2004 to 2007.

I will not back down from a fight, Premier Ewing

Of 100 illegal migrants 46 apprehended

This was just one of four attempted sloop arrivals over the weekend. Three other vessels containing 137 individuals were intercepted. The US Coast Guard intercepted one vessel north of Haiti with 87 persons on board. The US Coast Guard and the Royal Bahamas Police and Defence forces jointly interdicted two Haitian vessels near Georgetown, Great Exumas, carrying more than 50 persons. Information is still being developed which indicates that more sloops are on their way to the Turks and Caicos Islands. According to the police, a joint effort is being undertaken involving enforcement agencies both internally and externally. The enforcement agencies of the Turks and Caicos have requested that anyone with information concerning the whereabouts of any illegal migrants who came off the sloop or the planned arrival of other sloops to contact the police anonymously on 911 or CrimeStoppers anonymously on 1-800-8477. Tips can also be submitted anonymously in English, French or Spanish on either www. crimestoppers.tc or on Facebook as a fan of CrimeStoppers Turks and Caicos.

PREMIER, Dr. Rufus Ewing, maintained that he will not back down from a fight with the British to push through an agenda that is in the best interest of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Ewing was speaking on the ‘Expressions’ radio show on Monday, where he addressed the challenges of transitioning from an interim administration, as well as his focus for 2013. According to him, his government is focused on prioritising the legislative agenda for the New Year, looking at areas in the legal framework that need to be amended or repealed. He acknowledged that the Governor’s veto powers will be a challenge for an elected Government, but stressed that his government is prepared to put up a fight in this area. Last week, the Premier committed to repealing Value Added Tax (VAT), if the United Kingdom does not budge on the request to delay its implementation. And he said if VAT is not deferred and the House of Assembly votes to repeal the new tax regime, any veto of a repeal will not be received well by the international community, as it relates to the UK’s administration of its Overseas Territories – a fact he has communicated to Simmonds. STRONG PARTNERS The Premier said the Turks and Caicos Islands has strong partners in the Caribbean Community and its closest neighbour, the Bahamas. He said, “We have to lean on our allies in the region.” Ewing stated that his government will be making representation to the United Kingdom to communicate its

No official communication to Gov’t on Mike Misick’s condition, Ewing THERE has been no official communication with the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Government to date on the condition of former Premier, Mike Misick. This was according to Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, on Monday, who was responding to public queries, while he was a guest on the popular radio show ‘Expressions’. According to Ewing, the hope is that Misick is not being mistreated in

party’s manifesto, prior to coming into office. On the note of development, he said the new investment policy, currently being reviewed, outlines the direction the Government wants to take development, and includes initiatives to support small and medium sized enterprises in the TCI.

BY VANESSA NARINE

Sloop avoids detection A SLOOP was successful in landing at Sapodilla Bay, Providenciales, on Sunday (December 17). The 911 centre received calls indicating that approximately 25 people believed to be illegal migrants were spotted in the Chalk Sound area around 1am. The event went undetected by the Coastal Radar Station, which was not operating at the time due to technical difficulties. The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Marine unit were also on station at the time, but the sloop was able to avoid detection. The abandoned sloop was located at 3.45am by officers of the Marine Branch just west of Sapodilla Beach, Chalk Sound area. A joint Royal Turks and Caicos Island Police and Immigration Task Force operation was undertaken immediately and is still on-going into today. Indications to date are that there were in excess of a 100 persons on board. The operation has led to the apprehension of 46 unlawful entrants, comprised of both men and women. These persons are currently being processed at the Five Cays Detention Centre. The operation is still underway in the Chalk Sound, Five Cays area.

Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson

any way. He acknowledged that the conditions of Brazilian prisons were a concern. Like the Premier, local supporters of Misick have expressed concerns over the conditions of Brazil’s prisons – a concern that have been echoed in exposes done on the country’s justice system by major news agencies, including the BBC. Brazilian Federal Police arrested

Misick on December 7, at the Santos Dumont Airport, Rio. He was interrogated, and then sent to the Ary Franco prison, pending extradition. As Misick was born in a British Overseas Territory, reports are that he is receiving British Consular Assistance. The former Premier was a fugitive since 2009, accused of corruption and embezzlement. (VANESSA NARINE)

Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing

wishes in moving forward, as well as to hold them to their responsibilities for the TCI as its Overseas Territories. He noted that the UK’s responsibility for border security is the major issue. The Premier said TCI will be communicating to Under-Secretary of State, Minister Mark Simmonds, the country’s needs to ensure that the police’s Marine Branch is properly funded, that the Radar Station is functioning, that the detention centre is maintained and that repatriation fees are covered by the UK. Ewing added that his government will make the UK accountable for its responsibilities. He stated that there are many other issues that his government is looking at, including staffing for key departments, such as Labour, and tackling the unemployment scourge. Health and Education also feature prominently in the 2013 plan, Ewing said. The Premier pointed out that the things being addressed currently reflect the priorities outlined in his

CHALLENGES According to Ewing, his government’s start after November 9 was the beginning he expected. He pointed out that after three years of interim administration rule the transition to Government was difficult. The Premier noted that incoming ministers had to be briefed on a host of issues that occurred during the three years that democracy was suspended, so that they have a clear picture going forward. He added that the second challenge is finances, more so with the question of VAT looming over the TCI. However, Ewing said his government is pushing forward and is looking at preparing the Budget for the next financial year. “We have to prioritise spending,” he said. According to him, education is important, but so is addressing immigration issues and border security, among other pressing needs. The Premier maintained that being in office is an “awesome responsibility” and one that he does not take lightly as his government works to ensures they move the TCI and its people to better days.

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

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

Development agreement to restart works on West Caicos signed THE Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG), last Friday, announced the completion of the development agreement enabling the recommencement of the Molasses Reef development, a luxury hotel and condominium resort on West Caicos, which has been stalled since 2008. The development agreement was completed on December 6, while the remaining arrangements necessary for recommencing the project will be completed this week. West Caicos measures nine square miles and is currently uninhabited. Development of the island began in 2001, but with the credit crisis in 2008 and the collapse of main creditor to the project, the development came to a standstill in the same year. A group of European investors advised by Kew Capital reached agreement with the previous developers, Logwood Development Company, to buy most of their interest in the project, and with the administrator of the original creditor to buy its interest in the land and other assets including the partially built hotel and associated infrastructure. The project will re-mobilise as

soon as practicable and after the new development team has carried out a detailed review of the existing infrastructure and buildings. Subject to this review, the developer looks to start work in 2013 with a view to opening the hotel as soon as possible. The development agreement, initially signed by Governor Ric Todd, on behalf of TCIG , was under negotiation between TCIG, the owners of the development and the new investors for nearly 12 months, and will bring significant benefits to the government and people of the islands. The development is a multiphased development, which will be a source of construction activity and employment on the island for many years to come. Other benefits include enhanced government revenues through ongoing duties, licence and other fees, as well as a 25 per cent share of proceeds from the sale of leasehold interests of land located in the southern part of West Caicos. Also the agreement reached with the new investors yielded the government $7.6 million including stamp duty, through the completion

An aerial view of the West Caicos Resort

of land sales that had previously been agreed but not completed. The original project employed 500 people at its peak and was expected to create hundreds of jobs on an on-going basis once the hotel opened; the government expects similar levels of employment under the new development. The additional phases of the development include luxury villa and

Premier Ewing reports tangible takeaways from JMC PREMIER, Dr. Rufus Ewing, maintained that there were tangible takeaways for the Turks and Caicos Islands following the United Kingdom’s Joint Ministerial Council (JMC), held earlier this month. At a press conference last Thursday, December 6, Ewing said the UK’s Caribbean Overseas Territories agreed to meet once a year. He added that one area identified as a common challenge was the major discrepancies in the Caribbean Overseas Territories. According to him, together the Caribbean Overseas Territories are looking to modernise the legislative framework so that it is more uniform. At the end of the JMC’s twoday session a joint communiqué, which sets out priority issues and a comprehensive action plan for joint work in the coming year, was issued. Ewing stated that the priorities

Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, in the UK at the JMC

are reflective of the goals of the Overseas Territories. He pointed out that for the TCI, the identification of capital works, in the interest of seeking public/private partnership was addressed, as well as the country’s goal of economic diversification.

The Premier stated that collaboration was sought not only between the UK, but with other Overseas Territories to advance economic diversification, a development that would include agriculture, deep sea fishing and offshore financial services. Ewing said while there are useful policies which the other Overseas Territories have tried and tested that can be adopted by the TCI, the country will still seek out other regional partners, such as the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) for needs such as advancing agriculture. “Most helpful was the networking between other Overseas Territories,” he said. This month’s meeting was the first meeting as the new Joint Ministerial Council, which succeeds the Overseas Territories Consultative Councils. (VANESSA NARINE)

UK has to keep an eye not two hands on the TCI, Leader of the Opposition PARLIAMENTARY UnderSecretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth (FCO) Affairs, Mark Simmonds, last Monday, updated the Minister of State for International Development, Alan Duncan, and the United Kingdom House on developments in the Turks and Caicos Islands. And he made it clear that the UK will keep its attention turned on the TCI. However, Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene CartwrightRobinson, stressed that the UK has to keep “an eye, not two hands” on the affairs of the TCI. She said, “As much as they have had a part to play in what has happened. It is an embarrassing situation. We have more embarrassment to endure with the trials coming up. “It is understood that it is in their

PDM Leader Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson

best interest to not just watch the finances, but the whole image of the Turks and Caicos Islands. “At the end of the day, if we are unable to perform; first thing first with the loan guarantee, it becomes their taxpayers’ bill; and they also

have a responsibility for many other aspects of the TCI. “If there is anything negative then it shines a bad light on their governance and oversight of their Overseas Territories.” According to the Opposition Leader, she is in favour of the UK keeping an eye on the affairs of the Islands. “In fact if they had kept an eye on the TCI before, we would not be in the position we are in today,” Cartwright-Robinson said, “I encourage them to keep an eye on the TCI.” However, she reiterated that oversight for a nation that has a democratically elected government must be “an eye, not two hands.” Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, was unavailable for comment, according to head of his Secretariat. (VANESSA NARINE)

condominium developments, which will create further construction work and hospitality industry employment. The investment group expects that hundreds of millions of dollars will be invested in the island over the lifetime of the project. The new development team has ambitious plans for making an environmentally sustainable development on West Caicos and will work closely with the various government agencies including the Planning Department and Department of the Environment and Costal Resources among others. A key part of the development agreement designates much of the island as a nature conservancy, which the project team has undertaken to maintain, preserve and protect. Governor Todd, commenting on

the development, said, “I am glad that the government and the various parties involved in this transaction have reached a deal that will enable this project to re-start. “The project will add to the range of tourism and hospitality offerings, which already make these islands such a leading tourism destination. “This luxury resort development will deliver considerable economic and employment benefits to TCI, and has been very carefully structured so as to preserve the unique environmental and marine heritage of West Caicos. “The re-start of the development is a further vote of confidence in TCI and in the current investment policy of the TCIG.” A spokesman for the investment adviser, Kew Capital, said, “We are very pleased to have advised on this investment in TCI. “We have worked hard along with the government to bring it about, and we look forward to the project recommencing with the new development team. “The investment reflects our conviction that TCI has a great tourism base and has enormous further tourism potential. “We know this project comes with a great deal of responsibility; West Caicos is a beautiful island and we are determined to ensure that the new development is sensitive to its environment and to this end we will work closely with the various government agencies as well as the newly elected government.”

Sandals Resorts responds to false assertions ASSERTIONS indicating that Sandals Resorts International (SRI) challenged statements made by Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing, over the timing of his notification of the company’s acquisition of the Veranda Resort are false, according to the company. Reports recently posted on TCI News Now and other local portals, said the Premier recently travelled to Grand Turk aboard the Sandals Resorts International’s corporate airplane as a guest of SRI chairman Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, and was aware of the deal. A release from the company said that Premier Ewing has never been a passenger on any of the company’s airplanes and Stewart has not been a visitor of Grand Turk for more than a year. Another contentious issue was the claim that Ewing had problems with the company’s employment of some 750 Jamaican workers who reside in Beaches-owned accommodation and do not rent from locals. In response, the company made it clear that this is “wholly inaccurate”. According to SRI, the accurate number is far less than 400 and only 67 reside within staff housing, while the vast majority of overseas staff choose to rent from the local market to the benefit of the local economy. The company in its release said, “Beaches Turks and Caicos currently operates one 208-room staff housing facility on Venetian Road, which was built following a request from the then TCI government, to ease their housing

concerns and it is only partially occupied. “The other 26-room complex on South Dock Road has been closed for long-term refurbishment work. “We are happy to say that both the resort and its employees contribute fully to all aspects of economic activity in the Turks and Caicos Islands including housing.” Earlier this month, Premier Ewing said his government was pursuing the development of a MOU, which is expected to revisit the 2006 Beaches Development Agreement to: improve the immigration provisions and concessions in TCIG’s favour; and seek additional benefits to the TCI that will ensure greater employment protection, and development of a skills training unit at the TCI Community College. As it relates to the timing of his notification of the acquisition of the Veranda Resort, Ewing acknowledged that the transaction is a private matter between the owners of Beaches and Veranda and as such outside the business of government. He also gave his assurance to Turks and Caicos Islanders that the government will continue to monitor the situation, well after the sale has been completed, with a view to ensuring that those who are currently employed with Veranda will be afforded an opportunity to continue their employment with the new owners and that the people of the TCI will benefit from the opportunities presented by the acquisition.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

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

ON MIKE’S ARREST

EMBATTLED former Premier, Mike Misick, was arrested in Brazil on December 7, but the timeline for his extradition to the TCI is still unknown. The poor conditions of the Brazilian prisons have been a focus for many exposés by major news agencies, including the BBC. What are your thoughts?

Karma

If he had done the right thing and turned himself in to begin with, he would not be there. It is just karma.

Long awaited

This arrest has long been awaited. We thought that the British knew all along where the former Premier was, but since he was removed and could not cause trouble they left him until they were ready to bring him to justice. The results of the election may have been affected by his advice. He issued his election message from Rio, as he also issued instructions to the leader he selected, along with his brother and other relatives.

PDM’s opportunity to regroup

The government is loaded with civil servants Misick installed for his parties benefit. The PDM under Skippings was unable to marshal a proper campaign and this was unbelievable given the massive mess the PNP made. Had it not been for Sharlene, Josephine, Sean Astwood and Derek Taylor, the only oldster with a proper legacy, the party would have failed. Now it is time for the PDM to reform and create a proper organisation; bring back their bright stars and prepare for by-elections.

Mike will sing like a canary

The nasty prison conditions will loosen the

former Premier’s tongue and he will not fight extradition. Governor Todd said “no let-up” and Misick said “they will all go down with me”. How many more heads will roll in 2013? Helen Garlick had predicted up to 150.

A blue side

Mike brought this on himself

Michael Misick did not have to be a fugitive from justice. As a matter of fact he was asked to come home some time ago and chose not to. I guess what I am saying is that he brought this on himself. He could have stood and faced the music with his colleagues and been on bail eating lobster and drinking DP, but instead he chose to be a coward and abandon ship.

Mike situation smaller than our other problems

This was amazing news, but also had a blue side. How could a man with such promise be so corrupt? How could the people elect the same group who worked side by side with this coward and fugitive? Even his brother, who managed to lose all our money in the bank and who is on the verge of personal bankruptcy, was selected by 3,000 voters. Not to mention the ‘Doc’ that gave us the health mess; amazing.

It is clearly in Mike's hands whether he stays in a Brazilian prison awaiting extradition. If that is what he wants in order to garner sympathy then so be it. He has made his bed, now it is time for him to lie in it. Who cares, we are too busy trying to keep our heads above the poverty line.

TCI embarrassed once again

I hope the process of getting out of that prison takes a long time, as long as it is taking the Turks and Caicos to recover from his mess.

It is sad that this former Premier or former leader of the TCI finds himself in this situation. The islands are once again embarrassed. It is better, however, that he be taken out of those conditions as soon as possible. I do believe Mike Misick's problem is bigger than the charges he faces. There are bigger, badder, worse persons in the UK House of Lords with more to lose, more to go down for that have an interest in Mike Misick remaining where he is and/or never coming home to defend himself. It is like somebody had an idea to collect untold billions off these islands and its people, funded Misick's election and Misick himself, got the biggest deals ever in the history of these islands and Misick did this person's bidding.

Mike has to pay his dues

A fair hearing

Misick should be home here to face the charges and the people. Concerns here raise international human rights issues at best and as such we may join the global crusade against conditions of this nature. It would be better if he came home. What does he do, fight extradition and prolong the incarceration or say what he knows so he could be freed or dealt with. If he talks he will be prosecuted and sentenced. If he remains silent he stays there and suffers at the hands of a weak system when it comes to human rights.

What does he do? But even though he sold our people out, destroyed our country, let him face the music and charges at home in a fair and humane manner.

Embarrassed

Many questions arise on this issue. As an imperial dictator Misick is getting a taste of his own medicine. He carried out the imperial mandate of the British government to oppress those that did not support him. More so we as TC Islanders are embarrassed to have a former so-called leader in chains and in Brazil of all places. Maybe we need to seek an update from the SIPT on how the extradition proceedings are going. The worst prison system in the world calls out for human rights action. Well the former premier is alleging this. Maybe the Human Rights Commissioner Doreen Misick Quelch should submit a formal report on how Misick was deprived of his rights in the TCI to help him come back or fight extradition.

Not a god

It is about time that he experiences something that makes him see that he is a man. . .never a god! If he did not want to be in a Brazilian prison, he should not have run there. I have no pity or wish to see him treated with kid gloves. . .it is what it is. If you ask me, I'd say just take the money back from him and leave his hip down there in jail, he disgraced home like no other before.

 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

Constitution review will come, Premier Ewing Elections Office begins CONSTITUTION review will come, according to Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing. He told the Weekly News that while this is an issue that will be addressed after the first 120 days, a review of the 2011 Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Constitution will occur. The Premier said, “It is something we will get to once we get over the transition and the challenges we have right now.” Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, noted that the call for constitution review will be that of the Premier and his government. She pointed out that it is an issue that needs to be addressed as there are “problematic areas” that “dilute” the powers of an elected government. However, the Opposition Leader said that if there are personalities who are willing to sit down and work with the TCI Government, then the problematic areas will not be as problematic. Cartwright-Robinson said, “At the end of the day the timetable for constitution review is set by the UK. “I think this is something an elected government has to seek to address, because at the end of the day the priorities of the UK government are not necessarily those of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ Government. “The UK’s priority right now is

2013 Voter Registrations

Premier Rufus Ewing

AG Huw Shepheard

paying a debt and ours is employment and addressing social issues of our country. “You really do not want that level of veto power that the Governor has right now. Every Governor has had veto powers, but right now some of the new ordinances put in place give the current Governor greater powers.” She maintained that constitution review is something that needs to be at the top of any government’s agenda. Days after the new constitution came into effect, political leaders voiced their criticisms over various provisions made in the legislative framework. However, the Attorney General (AG), Huw Shepheard, commenting on the criticisms, said, “It must be

remembered that the new Turks and Caicos Constitution was very much a joint product of both then Turks and Caicos political leaders, representatives of civic society here and the United Kingdom government in the summer of 2011…it is, therefore, not entirely new, nor an imposition. “As well as it being jointly agreed by Islanders’ representatives, it is also typical of election legislation all around the world: most countries expect their politicians to have no allegiance but to that nation where they were elected. In this, the TCI is really no different to anywhere else.” The AG maintained that the new constitution was a joint product of the UK government and the political and civic leaders of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

THE Turks and Caicos Islands Elections Office will begin updating the present Register of Electors in the New Year. And voter registration is an ongoing process to ensure that the Register is kept up-to-date. The new Register will be available from March 31, 2013 as required in the Elections Ordinance. Eligible voters on the present Register of Electors do not need to re-apply for the next one. They will be automatically included in the 2013 Register, unless they notify the Elections Office that they have changed their name or place of residence or no longer meet the eligibility criteria. The eligibility criteria include living in the TCI for a minimum of 12 out of the last 24 months. The Supervisor of Elections is also encouraging anyone 18 years or older who satisfies the criteria but who did not apply to be included in the 2012 Register to apply. These include young people who turned 18 years old after March 1, 2012. An elector’s status as a Turks and Caicos Islanders must first be verified by the Ministry of Border Control through the process of obtaining a TC Islander Status card. Anyone without a status card should apply for one at the offices of the Ministry of Labor and Border Control using

the forms and guidance notes that were published during the month of April of this year. As in the last round of voter registration, the Elections Office will await the completion of the TC Islander status verification process before it will consider an applicant for addition to the Register of Electors. Potential new electors should complete a voter registration application form. The form can be obtained from the Elections Office in Grand Turk (Waterloo Plaza, above Scotiabank) or Providenciales, Butterfield Square) or the District Commissioner’s Offices in Salt Cay, South Caicos, Middle Caicos (Conch Bar) and North Caicos (Bottle Creek). The application period will be from Monday December 17, 2012 and will run until Friday 25th January, 2013, Monday to Thursday between 8am and 4:30 pm and on Fridays 8am to 4pm. Applicants are also encouraged to collect and submit any or all of the relevant personal documents (e.g. birth certificate, marriage certificate, naturalization details, photo identification etc) with their various applications to verify their TC Islander status. Prospective applicants are asked to note that registration if free, however Status Cards cost $50.

December 20 – January 11, 2013

FacetoFace

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Back to basics

LAST week, I noted that the negative impacts of corruption are not merely financial, but are also economic, moral, and social. Feedback since the publication of that article has shed new light on the issue – a wide view of the entire dynamic of the problem that has held the Turks and Caicos Islands in its eroding grip. What I was told was that the age old problem of the Caicos Islands being treated as separate from the Turks Islands created

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

a need for empowerment of Caicos Islands’ residents, which was done. However, somewhere along the line, the availability of opportunities to persons who worked hard to get it, a merit-based system, withered down to opportunities for work and study abroad being given on a shallower basis. After the holidays have ended and the New Year begins its approach, people begin making their resolutions. As a country, what is becoming

clearer is that after another Commission of Inquiry, three years of interim administration rule and the final return to democratic rule, the Islands and its people need to get back to basics. Leader of the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM), Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, told the Weekly News that her party will soon be pushing a campaign called ‘Back to Our Roots’. She said, “There needs to be that understanding, especially among our

with VANESSA NARINE

A series that seeks to engage the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands on issues and act as a medium through which they can hear from prominent personalities on current concerns, including on politics, development and the environment, among others.

young people, that Turks and Caicos Islanders have always had to work hard, from the salt industry to the fishing industry. “Our children have been exposed to a ‘get rich quick’ mentality that will take forever to reverse, but it is something that we will have to do.” The impacts of such a campaign, hopefully positive, are still to be seen. Acclaimed philosopher Aristotle’s claim that living things having “a principle of change and staying unchanged” (cited in Wiggins, 1980, p.88- 89) is a natural paradox of human life. Over the course of development, individuals must come to understand the inherent contradiction that we

are “as we were, and yet different” (Hermans & Salgado, 2005, p.10). The understanding of this paradox is a personal and collective imperative: without links to who you were and who you will be, life would lose meaning, future planning would make no sense, and because no one could be held accountable for their past actions, society would cease to function (Chandler, Lalonde, Sokol, & Hallett, 2003). What is clear is that while some people need to get back to their roots, there are many Turks and Caicos Islanders who never left them.

Send feedback to vanessanarine@gmail.com

Little Water Cay gets new visitors’ centre LITTLE Water Cay now has a new visitor’s centre, compliments of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) National Trust, in its continued effort to protect and preserve the natural,

historic and cultural heritage of the Islands. Executive Director of the Trust, Ethlyn Gibbs-Williams, told the Weekly News that visitors will now

Premier expressed condolences after Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting PREMIER, Dr. Rufus Ewing, this week, expressed his condolences following the shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. He said: “As Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, as a friend of the United States and as a father, I speak for my Cabinet, the people of my country and my family in expressing heartfelt condolences for the heartbreaking suffering inflicted on those who must now struggle with the losses that came at the Sandy Hook Elementary School, in Newtown, Connecticut. “We are deeply saddened, our consciences are shocked and we are outraged by this assault against innocence and the prospects of an ordinary day; the pain of which

echoes across the ocean, in the words of President Obama: “Our hearts are broken”. “We stand with the people of Sandy Hook in Newtown; we stand with goodhearted Americans who have been the friends of Turks and Caicos for over 200 years – in their hour of unimaginable sorrow. “And as we are a praying people, we make and send our prayers and our affection, and we look ever forward, driven by that inspiring hope which, for so long has been America’s great gift to the world.” Twenty children, ages five to 10, as well as six adults were killed in last week’s shooting. The shooter, identified as Adam Lanza, took his own life after the massacre.

TCI awarded World’s leading Beach Destination THE World Travel Awards upped its year-long search for the most popular tourism brands around the globe with its glittering Grand Final Gala Ceremony, on December 12, in New Delhi, India, bestowing upon the Turks and Caicos Islands ‘World’s Leading Beach Destination’. Hailed as “the Oscars of the travel industry” by the Wall Street Journal, WTA is recognised worldwide as the ultimate travel accolade. Its 2012 Grand Tour featured regional heats in Dubai (UAE), Turks and Caicos Islands, The Algarve (Portugal) and Singapore, with the winners from these competing headto-head at the Grand Final. The award follows Grace Bay Beach being named the Caribbean’s Leading Beach Destination in the WTA’s regional heats held on Providenciales in September. The Islands held off stiff competition from Cancun, Mexico, Cape Town in South Africa, Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana in Brazil and even the Maldives.

Commenting on the award, Director of Tourism, Ralph Higgs, said, “Along with our tourism partners and stakeholders we are delighted to accept this award as World’s Leading Beach Destination. This is further testament to what we here in the Turks & Caicos have known all along and the world is beginning to find out.” Graham Cooke, World Travel Awards president and founder, said, “The Turks & Caicos continues to build its reputation as the definitive low-key luxury hideaway, offering stunning beaches away from the public glare.” The Turks and Caicos Islands were also recently named as the number one Beach destination in the World as voted on in the Travelers Choice 2012 category by readers of the popular online site, Trip Advisor. Established 19 years ago, World Travel Awards is committed to raising the standards of customer service and overall business performance throughout the international tourism industry.

have access to facilities that support their exploration of history of Little Water Cay and its link in the history and culture of the Turks and Caicos Islands on a whole. She said, “What we intend to do is to develop and display panels that will help visitors learn more about the Islands. “Right now Little Water Cay is a nature reserve, protected under law. It is also home to about 3,000 plus iguanas and other wildlife.” The total cost of the construction was placed at just over $100,000. When asked, the Executive Director said funding for the

project was provided, in part, by the European Union (EU). She said, “This is just part of the Trust’s overall management of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ sustainable economics project, which is cofunded by the European Union.” According to her, visitors will continue to be charged the same fee on visiting and touring the Island, which is a means of ensuring the continued management of the Island. Gibbs-Williams added that the visitor turnout to the Island has been fair for 2012, but not better than 2011. She said, “We intend to beef up

on marketing of the services offered by the Trust, in terms of tours to protected sites in the Turks and Caicos Islands. “The whole aim of what we do is to raise awareness of what we have in the Turks and Caicos and also to strengthen the capacity of the National Trust to manage the heritage sites.” The centre will also provide better accommodations for wardens on the Island, during their time there. The construction of the new centre was done by T. Holdings and completion took two months. (VANESSA NARINE)

Contractor, Trevor Musgrove, in front of the recently completed visitor’s centre

Tourist given a guided tour of Little Water Cay

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

We welcome letters from all members of the public on a variety of topics Please note that all submissions are subject to editing in keeping with defamation laws and newspaper style. Letters should be accompanied by the author’s full name, location and phone number. Names will be withheld if requested.

Open letter to the History director of Dolphin Cove can bite us Dear Mr. Burrowes, You say that ‘certain scuba diving/ snorkelling companies oppose the dolphinarium. Damn right they do, but not for reasons you would know nor care to understand. You have never lived on these islands, never contributed anything to them. You clearly show that you know nothing about, nor care about the Turks and Caicos by saying that your dolphinarium would “promote the island more to a wider range of visitors”. Well, let me tell you exactly what you would be getting us into. The only extra attention you would bring would be that of the Sea Shepherd, the Ocean Defender and the Greenpeace. International media would report about petitions against our new dophinarium and protesters coming to the Islands from around the world. WE are aware, even if you are perhaps not, that there are millions of people on this planet who fight against people like you and against the unimaginable cruelty you inflict to JoJo’s brothers and sisters. These people know that hundreds of animals are captured, and that most of them die.

These incredibly intelligent animals with brains bigger than humans’ live in families – you take the young from their parents and so separate these families. In nature, they roam freely, they swim hundreds of miles. In captivity, they live in dirty stagnant water. They are terrified, they are lonely, they are bored. They harm themselves on the sides of their enclosure till they bleed. They are fed antidepressants and punished if they refuse to do the

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tricks. Need I go on? Our islands have a wonderful motto: ‘Beautiful By Nature,’ and a very concise brand which we have been working hard to promote. We have carefully and lovingly established ourselves on the market so that our brand clearly says we cater to a clientele who come here to enjoy the tranquility, unspoiled reefs and natural beauty. There is nothing natural about what you do. You are clearly out there to add yet another notch on your belt, and to make yet more money. You do not care about the animals nor the permanent damage caused to reefs around your proposed site, should it be dredged for your dolphinarium. Well, we do. We live here. We care. We protect and keep pristine our reefs and beaches. We dive and swim with free animals. And no, your reference to the “dangers of swimming with free dolphins” will not cut it either. Because we care, we make sure that no harm comes to them. We don’t want your dolphinarium here, and we will also continue to oppose the others you already have. Concerned citizens

Dear Editor, The Late Hon Clement Howell was a distinguished statesman, a gentleman, a man of the people, and served as PDM leader and Leader of the official Opposition in the 1980s until he joined the interim Government of 1986. You see owing to the career malfeasance of the PNP regime, petty crimes, corruption at the Public Works Department, the fire at Bascombe House, Front Street, Grand Turk, the British took over and created an interim Government. The official PDM opposition, its NGC, supporters all thought and supported the need for the PNP government to call general elections in 1985 and 1986 and to seek a new mandate from the PNP instead of persisting with a PNP government. Instead, following the arrests of Norman Saunders, Stafford Misick and Aulden Smith on drug charges, the PNP elected the late Hon NJS Bops Francis as Leader and Chief Minister in 1985. The Hon Robert Hall moved in to support that Government as Minister of Education, Alden Durham moved in as Minister of Works and the Hon Ariel Misick moved in as Minister of Development. Well Hall, Francis and Durham were later declared as unfit for public office. Hon Carlos Simons moved in as unopposed representative for Salt Cay and Manny Misick moved in as unopposed member for Bottle Creek. But Simons, Ariel Misick and Manny Misick soon found out how corrupt the PNP was, denounced them and joined the interim Government after the British government had to suspend the constitution in 1986. The PDM refused the join the interim Government but the Hon Clement Howell broke PDM party ranks and joined. As a result, the PDM like they have planned now, called a special convention for the removal of the Hon Clement Howell because he defied a party position and joined the interim Government instead of

COMMENTARY

Ghosts of Christmas past THE holiday season is upon us once again and Middle Caicos will lose a large portion of its population as residents leave to visit their children and relatives living elsewhere, somewhere, anywhere which has employment. Almost all seeking employment to support themselves and their families have had to leave. The population has been reduced down to those who love this beautiful place in the center of the Turks and Caicos and those who can survive here. We came together for the Christmas tree lighting and for the school party. With these events

By David Tapfer behind us, more will be leaving but only for the season. We wonder what it was like in the 1930's when Lorimers had over 700 residents. People came here to visit.

SPACE IS LIMITED!

It seems to me we have distilled our population and the best have survived and remain. Christmas is a time of reawakening when we celebrate the birth of Jesus and Christianity. Christians are now under attack everywhere in the world except here. Middle Caicos also anticipates a rebirth. There is nowhere but up for this the largest and most beautiful of the islands. As a senior, I now often reflect on the holidays of the past. Those days long ago when we were a child and then later when we had children growing up. How the world has turned around time and again.

As a child on Christmas eve I spent the day with my grandparents, my father’s parents. Grandpa Tapfer was a union organizer and a barber. They lived in an apartment. Dad had been their only child. Their Christmas tree was a small ceramic affair that had one light bulb inside which shown through simulated tiny colored bulbs. During the day, while I was with my grandparents, Santa Clause, (my parents), came to our house and set up the family tree. It was a natural cut tree, long needled scotch pine and certainly not made of plastic. Later my Grandparents took me home and there it was, the tree with tiny houses underneath.

insisting on general elections. It came down to a 50/50 vote and the party chairman, Wendal Swann, nephew of the Hon Howell held the casting vote. Voting on the grounds of the party’s official position, what some may call ‘principle’; he voted to remove his uncle and supported the leadership of the Hon Oswald Skippings who later led the PDM to a 13-2 victory in 1988. Despite taking this “principled position” the PDM paid a heavy and final price. 1. It may have won the 1988 elections by a convincing majority. 2. The party was able to restore these islands 3. However this vote albeit on principal created a lasting and enduring rift in the party tow which it cannot heal to this day even though winning subsequent general elections and doing exceptionally well at the polls except when the British helps the PNP to cheat. Despite this principled decision, the PDM lost many members of many families, friends, supporters, well-wishers etc. It goes into convention tomorrow on the voice of certain bad apples in the local media, lies and a head line which was spun to suit the PNP’s agenda. Will the PDM learn from history or allow its mistakes of the past come back to hurt it by repeating similar type mistakes? The PDM is best advised to leave good alone and to work out the issue with the Hon Skippings and to throw away its play book on how to lose again. There are many ways to deal with a situation. Removing the leader is not one of them and should not come at a time when they are looking to win bielections, remove the PNP and face the possibility of a general election. PDMs please sit at the table and work this out. Yours truly, Patti Forbes

Later as a parent we tried to buy the largest real tree and load it with lights, ornaments and tinsel. This year Yvette and I now have a small ceramic tree complete with tiny houses, ghosts of those past Christmases. We have come full circle. There will be a few youngsters left in Middle and they will spend some time with us this holiday season. I suspect we will watch “Its a Wonderful Life” that iconic Christmas movie on PTV 8 Turner Classic Movies. In the movie the central figure leads what he believes is an everyday rather mundane life. When trouble visits him so does an angel who illustrates how much poorer his town would had been without him. He discovers he really had a 'wonderful life' doing what was less exciting but always right.

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

December 20 – January 11, 2013

Governor Ric Todd’s Christmas Message AT Christmas we celebrate a joyful occasion. It is also a time when a year closes. So it is natural to look back over 2012 and to look forward to what 2013 might bring. We can all agree that 2012 was an historic year for the Turks and Caicos Islands. That elections could take place on 9 November, and that so many voters went to the polls to choose TCI’s new government should be a source of pleasure and pride for us all. We should give thanks to all those on the Turks and Caicos Islands, and their peers and colleagues from the UK and elsewhere, whose hard work and commitment enabled our return to local democracy. And we must say a heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in the elections. TCI can look forward to 2013 with optimism. TCI has a growing economy and there is significant inward investment planned. This country now has modernised laws, a reformed public service and independent institutions for good governance. The focus is now rightly on a new government which will take forward policies and deliver services in the best interests of the islands and its people in accordance with the framework of the constitution and the law. I would also like to thank all of the public servants of the Turks and Caicos for what they do each and every day to serve these Islands. Over the past year I have had

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Governor Ric Todd

the honour and pleasure to meet many of them. We should all be proud of our teachers, health workers, our uniformed services, officials in Ministries and our tax collectors. They are committed to delivering the best services they can, and do so for all of us. At this holy time we also pay tribute to church and community leaders; those who work tirelessly in the voluntary sector, often in difficult circumstances. In a very practical way they sustain the values which nourish our communities while we take time to celebrate the birth of Christ. I have also had the honour and pleasure to meet many people from across the Turks and Caicos private sector this past year. The businesses, both large and small, that deliver the prosperity which we all enjoy and benefit from here on TCI deserve special appreciation. Finally, may I take this opportunity to wish you, your friends and family, a Holy and Merry Christmas, and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Premier Ewing's Christmas Message My fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders, I am very happy to express my warmest greetings and best wishes to all who are celebrating Christmas. This year, Christmas is unique and dear to my heart because it marks my first Christmas as Premier of the Turks & Caicos Islands and our first Christmas since the restoration of our new Constitution and Ministerial Government. I therefore join with you in celebrating this momentous occasion, recognizing the sense of renewed hope and comfort it brings to us as a people and a community. I again reiterate our commitment and pledge to you that my government and I will do our utmost in ensuring that we will hold fast to all of our promises to you. Christmas season is a time when our thoughts turn to the real source of joy, love and hope who was born in a humble manger more than 2,000 years ago; and as we join others worldwide in celebrating this single life that changed the world, may we also strive to be a positive influence to those around us for the betterment of our Turks and Caicos Islands. Customarily, we celebrate the birth of Christmas with Church Services, family gatherings, feasting and great merriment; but this year I would encourage us to be filled with

Premier Rufus Ewing

thanksgiving to God for how He has protected us from storms, pestilences, wars, riots and other evils that could have befallen us. Additionally, as we celebrate remember those who are not as fortunate as we are, it could be our neighbor, family, friend, visitor or even a stranger and let us do our best in sharing our Christmas cheer with them. Right on the heels of Christmas celebrations comes the New Year and I believe that as we look forward to 2013 there are genuine reasons for hope, joy, love, faith and optimism. Some of these reasons include increasing government revenue, reprioritizing

spending towards schools and primary health care, economic growth, new investment, increasing tourism, good governance and many others. Remember that faith overcomes doubt; hope conquers despair; and love triumphs over hate. Remember that faith is present when men and women of sound leadership bring love and understanding to the hearts of their fellow man. Therefore, let us as a people resolve to honor the Spirit of Christmas; strive to keep it throughout the year 2013 and give thanks for Christ's message of love and mercy. Also remember our responsibility and calling to freely and reverently serve our fellow men. This is our charge and this is our purpose and may the joy of the holidays renew our commitment to working together for a future of peace, opportunity, and hope. On behalf of my family, my Government and myself, I wish you a Merry Christmas, Good Health and a Prosperous New Year. May God bless you and may God bless these beautiful Turks and Caicos Islands. Rufus Ewing Premier Turks and Caicos Islands

continued

Open letter to the Governor

Dear Governor, I write you again concerning matters of impartial justice and judgment within your realm the TCI. As I look back over the years the British Crown who you represent has been brought to task twice over this matter by those who have been the greatest benefactors’ of the land of England. The first time the Nobles and Barons of England revolted against the abuses of King John and at Runny Meade compelled the king to execute the Magna Carta which established the recognition of rights for both nobles and English men and it clearly established the principle that no one including the king or a lawmaker is above the law. In point 20 and 21, the basic right to trial by jury was enshrined and in point 40 the Crown confirms to the freemen of England that to this day: “to no one will we sell, to no one will we delay or deny justice or right”. Sir when Kate Sullivan was sent down here to draw up the new constitution I went to the public meetings and remained her of these unalienable rights, that the Barons of England and the men of America had fought for and demanded of the Crown. I explained to her that I did this because I had suffered at the hands of judges who did not follow the rule of law and I provided documents to prove what I had said was true. At that time there was big riot and the people who attended the meeting

burned the draft constitution that was being drawn up by Ms. Sullivan. I have never heard back from Ms. Sullivan. At this point in time the drafted constitution has been implemented and the people of this nation have been as the Declaration of Independence states, “’deprived of,’ in many cases, of the benefits of trial by jury”. To add to this your government has brought the very judge that first presided over my most political case that went all the way to the British Privy Council, to preside over some very political non-jury trials in this nation. Now it is not like I have been silent about this matter. I have written and provided a book about the matter to yourself, our past Governor, the SIPT investigators, to the police, and others. I have yet to get one written response to these documents, which show that I was condemned as fraudster in the very case I paid in part to bring and to this day no one can tell me who the defrauded party is and how much I defrauded them off so I can work it out and clear my excellent name. In the light of these facts my conscience demands that I openly write you asking that you reconsider the appointment of Judge Paul Harrison, to this position. Yours truly, John Wildish

Some of the children who performed at the tree lighting service

Middle Caicos’ Christmas tree lighting a success BY DAVID TAPFAR THIS year’s Middle Caicos Christmas tree lighting service was conducted by the Mount Moriah Baptist Church on Saturday, December 8, and was a huge success drawing a large crowd from Middle and North Caicos including high ranking government officials from Provo. Using all the chairs from the local school and church there was standing room only. Present was Opposition leader Sharlene Cartwright Robinson her husband and two children who were front row participants in the outdoor service which had approximately 100 attendees. Also present was Honorable Donahue Gardiner the currently elected representative for North and Middle Caicos as was his

competition in the election, attorney Ashwood Forbes. The affair was hosted by Mistress of Ceremonies Julia Harvey. Speeches by Mrs. Robinson, , Pastor Shirley Smith of the local Church of Gods Prophesy, Christmas Hymns and a short presentation by music students from local Doris Robinson Primary School were features. While giving his Christmas greeting Donahue Gardiner admitted the Middle Caicos affair out drew the one in North Caicos. Baptist Deacons Garnet Outen, Carlyn Forbes and retired Deacon Elton Higgs also gave Christmas greetings. Pastor Williams spoke last with a message about yearlong Christmas giving. Rev Williams got the crowd’s attention when he insisted that Donahue sit next to Ashwood

Forbes. “This is how I picture you in my mind’s eye” he said. The actual lighting of the tree was performed by Mount Moriah long term member Mrs. Emerald Johnson of Conch Bar who signaled the lighting from her wheelchair. Three days later Doris Robinson School conducted their Christmas service on the school grounds. Present were parents, grandparents and residents. The children provided recitations and music. Principal Kiesha Mills and teacher Brenda Lee Harvey sang two selections and gave Christmas messages. The proceedings were conducted by Mary Forbes, Mistress of Ceremonies. The students donned aprons and delivered meals to the audience cooked in the schools kitchen.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Governor Ric Todd greets a young entrepreneur from ‘Premium Quality’

December 20 – January 11, 2013

The ‘Essence of the Islands’ trade booth

Young Enterprise officially launched BY VANESSA NARINE YOUNG Enterprise was officially launched on Saturday, December 15, and is the Island’s first national effort to encourage the entrepreneurial spirit among the country’s youths. It is an initiative of the Department of Youth and Director, Angela Musgrove, explained that it is one that has been two years in the making. According to her, she contacted Young Enterprise International with a feasibility study two years ago, but due to a regional review being done, the project was stalled. She noted that in January the Youth Department partnered with the local Chamber of Commerce and in November career mentors in Providenciales and Grand Turk benefited from training that saw them playing a better role in advising youths on career options. The participants of the workshop included advisors and LINK teachers who work in four schools: Raymond Gardiner High, Clement Howell High, HJ Robinson and Champions for Christ. The LINK teachers are those who are with the students regularly and provide the ‘link’ between the business world and the business advisors. Musgrove said that since then a local board has been established to oversee the efforts of the young entrepreneurs. The Youth Director stated that to date some 92 students have registered with the programme. She maintained that the impacts of being involved in this initiative are vast and studies have shown that youths involved with Young Enterprise are twice as likely to become business owners. They develop vital employability skills, as well as develop selfdisciple and are encouraged to show

The Chamber of Commerce’s Wendy Hills with entrepreneurs from ‘Unique National Island Treats’

Minister Akierra Misick falls for the marketing skills of ‘Pryo’ and buys the hand-made jewellery she is wearing

initiative. At Saturday’s launch, the young entrepreneurs had their trade booths set up to display their business and market their products. The young entrepreneurs will be involved in running their businesses for a year, until July 2013 when all businesses will be liquated. The ultimate aim of the enterprise experience is to engage youths, mentored by advisors or teachers, and set up and run their business for a year. Students aged 15 to 19-yearsold are eligible to register.

clear that those in the position to do so must assist in any way they can to give an opportunity to TCI’s youths, as they are the future of the Islands. “There are all different ingenuities and it is really great to see when given the opportunity, the ideas that our young people can bring to life,” she said. According to her, when the first year of the programme comes to an end, the top entrepreneur will receive a cash reward, as well as a trip to the United Kingdom to participate in Young Enterprise global event. Scotiabank is the local Young Enterprise’s premier sponsor.

INVALUABLE SKILLS On hand for the official launch was Governor Ric Todd who stressed that skills learned through the project will be invaluable for those involved. According to him, it was a good sign to see that the initiatives that the young entrepreneurs involved themselves in were in the manufacturing and production sector, a plus given that the TCI is

largely a service-based industry. Todd said no one self-skill is important more than the fact that the youths learn that they are capable of doing more than they thought they would in the past. Minister of Education and Youth, Akierra Misick, hailed the programme for it merits and long lasting impacts. She pointed out that those involved will have the opportunity to expand their skills and grow as individuals. The Chamber of Commerce’s Wendy Hill, who is also a Business Advisor with the programme made it

Youth Enterprise, founded in the United Kingdom in 1963, forges links between schools and businesses. The organisation’s mission is to inspire and equip young people to learn and succeed through enterprise and help students develop the attitudes and skills for enterprise, personal success, lifelong learning and employability. The organisation also provides real support for young entrepreneurs with programmes designed to assist in market research, developing business plans and managing company finance, among others.

Scotiabank gives to less fortunate IN TRYING to make the Christmas season special for everyone, Scotiabank presented gift bags full of food items to 35 individuals in need on Tuesday (December 18). The donations were made in a merry little ceremony at the bank’s Cherokee Road branch. Scotiabank’s managing director Cecil Arnold said that the initiative, which began last year,” was just to give a little bit back to the community…whatever we can do to help somebody have a better

Christmas”. He said that last year the bank donated to residents on North Caicos but focused on those less fortunate individuals on Providenciales this Christmas. The bank partnered with the Social Services Department and the Salvation Army to come up with a list of names of people that would benefit the most from the items, which included chicken and nonperishable foods like rice and canned goods. (KH)

Scotiabank’s managing director Cecil Arnold presents bags of food items to individuals in need

December 20 – January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 17

Christmas message from the Leader of the Opposition and pdm party

Funding a major challenge in 2012 for National Trust

– Sharlene Cartwright- Robinson

BY VANESSA NARINE

But if we hope for what is still unseen by us, we wait for it with patience and composure. Romans 8: 25 2012 has been a year of serious challenges and many new ones continue to present themselves for us a country and as individuals. If we allow these challenges to, we can easily lose focus on the reason we celebrate Christmas. Christmas is the season just before we turn over a new page and enter into a New Year. Both seasons remind us of something that we so desperately long for at this time and that is HOPE. It would be rather unfortunate if at this time and place in our country’s life and as individuals if we do not embrace the spirit of HOPE that ought to dominate these remaining weeks in 2012 and usher us into 2013. As much as hope is perhaps the more dominant theme of my Greeting to you, I wish to remind us that as a result of the first Christmas morn, this doomed world received the greatest gift, the greatest act of love and the greatest source of joy. The first Christmas was the sum total of several important messages wrapped into a single message of HOPE. Let us recall these lessons and let this spirit prevail in all we do this season. Let us also remember those who are less fortunate and share a smile, a hug or a plate of food – let us help to meet each other’s needs. Let us remember those whose freedoms have been suspended or taken and let us offer them the message of hope. Let us remember our children and remind them that this season is all about Jesus. Let us remember those who are broken in spirit and body and pray that God’s healing will visit them this Christmas. Let us remember those who this year lost loved ones and as we remember them, let us offer up our prayers that the Jesus born on Christmas Day will be born into their hearts and that they will allow His Spirit to comfort them. Let us spread the spirit of cheer, love, joy, giving, hope and gratitude. Let us remember as a people and as individuals, our worse day is some other country’s or someone else’s best day. No we do not delight in someone else’s sorrows but we are grateful that God shows us His mercy. I say to us as a people let us look forward to 2013 with a great sense of Hope knowing that Jesus who was born the first Christmas came so that

Hon. Sharlene Cartwright- Robinson

He can die and rise again to offer us HOPE and that even now He is making intercessions on our behalf. We are at a crossroads as a people and we have a unique opportunity to shape the best little country in this hemisphere. We can do this if allow the right spirit to prevail and it is my prayer that we will set our plans and desires before the God of this nation and allow Him to guide us as we move ahead in the right direction. I wish to thank you, the people of these Islands for the successes of the PDM at the Polls on November 9th and we pledge as individually and collectively as an Organisation to work feverishly, diligently and honestly on your behalf. I personally want to thank you for the many gifts you have given me as a people and the history making posts that you have ushered me into. I pledge to you my unwavering support for your best interests and your honest and sincere representation. We as a people have weathered many storms and we have remained strong and resilient. I ask that as we leave this year, God’s willing that we will anchor ourselves solidly for the storms ahead and that we will also lay wait with hearts of gratitude for the good and bad times ahead. From my family to yours and on behalf of the entire PDM family, I say a Blessed Merry Christmas and a Christ filled New Year. Sharlene Cartwright- Robinson LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION AND PARTY LEADER

Youth Centre gives back

YOUTHS from the Edward Gartland Youth Centre paid it forward on Saturday, September 15, when they embarked on a thorough clean-up of Coral Gardens Beach, bagging ten sacks of trash. Director of the centre, Roxann Wake- Forbes said, “The whole idea is for them to do something for other people rather than just focusing on themselves. “As the holidays approach it is important that we remember to do something for others.” The group discovered that the beach itself was not a mess but the surrounding areas were littered

with garbage and what looked like a dump site. Wake-Forbes pointed out that Coral Gardens Beach is one of the main beaches where tourists go for snorkelling and the team certainly made a big difference in cleaning up the area. Somewhere Café and TCI Waste supported the youths in their clean-up venture. Additionally, the members of the centre will be volunteering in other events including the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Drive and the Rotary’s Senior Citizens food drive. (KH)

THE Turks and Caicos Islands National Trust continues its effort to protect and preserve the natural, historic and cultural heritage of the Islands, but its executive director, Ethlyn Gibbs-Williams, maintained that funding was this year’s major challenge. She said, “Funding has been a serious issue for the National Trust, which is why we have been encouraging people to come out to our events to see what we are doing because we are guardians for TCI’s heritage. “I am not seeing the support we would like from both the local base, as well as from the government. “It is a struggle. It takes money to do what we are doing.” According to the executive director, the trust will be making representation to the newly elected government in 2013 for increased support. Gibbs-Williams said, “I prefer the one-on-one meeting with the government to present the plans that the National Trust has, as well as the budget to see how we can work together to move the National Trust to another level.” She noted that with support from the Caribbean Natural Resources Institute, the trust was able to put together a work plan to realise the goals of its strategic plan. GREATER AWARENESS The executive director added that in the New Year the institute will also be stepping up its marketing to encourage more locals to be involved with its activities. “We are planning a workshop early next year between January and February, get the schools involved, as well as the civic groups and churches and engage the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA). We cannot go this alone,” she said. Gibbs-Williams stated that community meetings to shed light on the trust’s work are also on the cards for next year. She said, “The National Trust

National Trust’s executive director, Ethlyn Gibbs-Williams

not only protects the natural environment or the wildlife, but also presents programmes to boost public awareness of the culture and the history of the Turks and Caicos Islands.” Over the years, the National Trust has served as guardian for the TCI’s natural and historic sites and continues to educate and promote awareness of these special places. Several projects including Wades Green on North Caicos, Conch Bar caves on Middle Caicos, Little Water Cay and Cheshire Hall on Providenciales are maintained by the trust as natural and heritage sites. Currently, the National Trust is supported by membership fees, private sponsorship and project grants and fulfills its mission by implementing a range of sustainable projects and initiatives, some of which are revenue generating and used to finance new programmes. PARTNERSHIPS The Executive Director said, “We are now working with the Nature Conservancy, which has an office in the Bahamas, to receive both technical and financial. According to her, staffing is a problem and the technical support from the Nature Conservancy will go some way in helping the organisation. She noted that partnerships are an

area of focus to assist the challenges faced by the Trust. Gibbs-Williams said, “The major focus going forward for the Trust will be to step up our marketing and public awareness. “We have some Committees and in the New Year we will look to make those work better for us.” The Turks and Caicos National Trust was launched in January, 1993 after passage of the National Trust Ordinance 1992 by the TCI Government. A prime mover behind its formation was Patricia Bradley, wife of former TCI Governor Michael Bradley. The National Trust was established as a membership-based, non-governmental organization. It is governed by an elected Council which includes representatives from all of TCI’s inhabited islands and three government-appointed members. The National Trust was originally led by a director recruited from abroad with a strong background in environmental non-profit organizations. However, there was available on-island someone who had focused her career along a similar course and in 1996, Ethlyn Gibbs-Williams took over the leadership role. The Trust’s primary task is to preserve areas of cultural, historic or natural significance, with the power to hold property in perpetuity for the people of the TCI. At the same time, it is expected to act as an advisory and support agency to government on conservation issues. The National Trust works in partnership with the Turks and Caicos Islands government, international conservation organizations, local businesses, boards, schools and most importantly, the Turks and Caicos Islands people. The National Trust is the only statutory, independent organization in the TCI responsible, bound by its mission statement “to safeguard the natural, historical and cultural heritage of the Turks and Caicos Islands for present and future generations and for the enjoyment of all.”

Members of the Youth Centre clean up Coral Gardens Beach area

Lifestyle... 18

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Recipes

Cherry Bomb

December 20 – January 11, 2013

fitness Tip  Dr. Joe LeMoine, is an Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine physician. He has worked with many international athletes and at many sporting events on the world stage. He currently practices in Providenciales, at Prime Sports Medicine.

Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine physician Dr. Joe LeMoine

This is a wonderful rum drink with lime and grenadine. It's great for any occasion. If this recipe seems too easy, well it is, but the drink is incredibly enjoyable and worth the lack of trouble! Ingredients 4 fluid ounces rum 1 liter lime soda 4 fluid ounces grenadine syrup 1 lime, juiced 1 lime, sliced 4 maraschino cherries

Directions 1. In a mixing glass combine rum, lime soda, grenadine and lime juice. 2. Mix well and pour into chilled glasses. 3. Garnish with lime slices and cherries.

Eggnog Custard Pie Ingredients 1/2 (15-ounce) package refrigerated pie crust 1 cup sugar 4 large eggs 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk 3/4 cup water 1/4 cup light rum 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon Whipped cream, for garnish Powdered sugar, for garnish Directions • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. • On a lightly floured surface, unroll pie crust. Roll pastry into a 12-inch circle. Press pie crust into a 9-inch deep dish pie plate, crimping edges, if desired. Lightly poke holes into the bottom of the dough once it's fitted firmly in the plate. • In a large bowl, beat sugar and eggs at medium speed with an electric mixer until well combined. Add evaporated milk, water, rum and salt. Beat at low speed until combined. Pour mixture into crust. Sprinkle top of pie with nutmeg and cinnamon. Place pie onto a rimmed baking sheet with a depth of 1/2-inch. Add hot water to baking sheet. • Bake for about 55 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted near center comes out clean. • Cut into desired sizes and garnish with whipped cream and powdered sugar.

Roasted pork and potatoes with creamy apple sauce Ingredients 1 1/2 pounds small red-skinned potatoes, halved 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces 2 teaspoons fresh thyme 1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper 1 cup applesauce 1/4 cup light sour cream Dash of freshly grated nutmeg 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 pounds pork tenderloin, cut into 4 pieces Directions • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Toss the potatoes and bell pepper with the thyme, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste in a shallow baking dish. Transfer to the oven and roast until the potatoes are slightly tender, about 20 minutes. • Meanwhile, mix the applesauce, sour cream and nutmeg in a small bowl and set aside. • Pat the pork dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork and sear until browned on all sides, about 6 minutes. Transfer the pork to the baking dish with the vegetables and continue to roast until a thermometer inserted into the center of the pork registers 145 degrees F, 15 to 20 more minutes. Transfer the pork to a cutting board and let stand 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with the roasted vegetables and creamy applesauce.

Top ten fitness trends for 2013 FITNESS, just like everything is constantly evolving. When looking at trends we want to filter out fads. Trends are the evolution of fitness as the science of Sports Medicine continues to push the limits and achieving maximum results. Some of the trends are new ideas and some are revamped old notions. The American College of Sports Medicine base these trends on a survey of 3,346 Health and Fitness Professionals. 1. Certified Fitness Professionals: For many years the number of College Programs and Graduates continues to increase. As insurers and employers realize the value of fit and healthy individuals, the demand is expected to increase. 2. Strength Training: Weight rooms used to be thought as exercise for body builders. Over the years strength training has been

more and more incorporated into global fitness and weight control programs. 3. Body Weight Training: Part of the back to basics movement. Body weight training has been used for centuries. Training using one’s own body weight allows for inexpensive and portable exercise. 4. Children Obesity Programs: Obesity continues to be a prevailing preventable health problem in children. With schools facing cutbacks sports programs are often the first to go. More and more community efforts need to continue. 5. Exercise for Weight Loss. Weight loss programs are less often relying on diet alone. Studies have shown that exercise not only burns calories but can modify eating habits and metabolism rates. 6. Fitness Programs for Older

Adults. With baby boomers getting older and the health benefits of exercise have been proven at all stages of life, more programs are being adapted to keeping over 50s active. 7. Personal Training: Continues to remain popular over the last 10 years. 8. Functional Fitness: Programs adapted to improve balance, coordination, power and endurance to facilitate normal life activities. 9. Core Training: With emphasis of strengthening the trunk leads to a strong balanced platform for the extremities to work off of. 10. Small Group Training: An evolution of the personal trainer is expanding to small groups of two or three, which allows continued personal attention at less cost. Have a blessed New Year!

health Tip 

Cherries CHOPPED cranberries, cherries, mangoes and even melons are used up in creating multi-colored tasty Christmas cakes. Christmas fruits are used up in bringing a special flavor to special recipes that includes the names of pudding, custards, ice creams, juices, cookies, salad dressings, desserts and breads. That said, this week we will look at cherries. Cherries are certainly one of today’s most popular dessert fruits, but they have been recognized for their medicinal purposes since the 1400’s. One cup of sweet cherries has just 90 calories and is a good source of fiber and vitamin C. With these great attributes, it’s no wonder why many

nutritionists, dietitians, and other health professionals often refer to cherries as a superfood. Some of the many “super-powers” of cherries include: Ranking among the top 20 foods with the highest concentration of antioxidants; Their melatonin content, which plays a key role in regulating the body’s internal clock and helps determine when we fall asleep

and when we wake up, so eating a handful of cherries just before bed is a great way to naturally regulate your sleep cycle; and Their role in alleviating pain and inflammation associated with arthritis and gout, the most severe Continued

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December 20 – January 11, 2013

Lifestyle... GARDENING 

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

How does your garden grow

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.

Eugenia EUGENIA is an evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to 30 feet high and is part of the myrtle family. The Eugenia plant, which is also known as brush cherries, is a shrub that is most often grown in pots indoors but can also be planted in the garden. The Eugenia plant is a wonderful addition to any home. If you are considering growing your own, you should learn how to properly care for it. Several are grown as ornamental plants for their attractive glossy foliage, and a few produce edible fruit that are eaten fresh or used in jams and jellies. Eugenia is a group of plant that consists of about 1,000 species of slow-growing plants, broadleaf, evergreen shrubs and trees that occur in the New World tropics, especially in the northern Andes, the Caribbean, and the Atlantic Forest (coastal forests) of eastern Brazil. Other centers of diversity include New Caledonia and Madagascar. The entire, egg-shaped leaves grow from one to three inches long. The young leaves, which are winecolored and covered with a few reddish hairs, contrast pleasantly with the older, dark green foliage. The young stems are also covered with a few red hairs. When you decide to plant your Eugenia make sure to select a

Cherries Continued

form of arthritis; among others. Research studies also suggest that tart cherries are help body to fight against cancers, aging and neurological diseases and pre-diabetes. Russians enjoy cherry preserves in their tea; Germans distill cherries into their brandy. Many people use them in cakes and pies, over ice cream, dried and diced into salads, as a garnish in cocktails, sprinkled over soft cheese, soft and warm on pancakes or in the middle of an indulgent chocolate bonbon. The question, really, isn’t what you can do with cherries— but what you can’t.

BY DENIS 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

location that receives a good mixture of full sunlight and partial shade. If you want to grow the plant in your house, a room with a good full spectrum light will suffice. However, Eugenia's can nonetheless tolerate a low amount of light indoors. Eugenia plants generally will not do well with too little water and times of drought. Watering should be done on a regular basis, and make sure to administer a good amount during the summer. You should also take the time to mist the plant with distilled or rain water in a bottle, as Eugenia plants prefers humid conditions. If you are growing it indoors, make sure to keep it in a room that receives a good amount of humidity. Another thing to keep in mind is the soil on which a Eugenia plant grows. Soils should be at least somewhat acidic, and you should

give it plant food once a month during times of heavy growth. During the winter, feed your Eugenia plant four to five times. The Eugenia is often shape as a topiary plant, used for shaping into different configurations such as 1, 2, or 3 ball topiaries or cone shapes. These topiaries make attractive container plants that can be used to frame an entrance to a home or office as well as serving as a focal piece in a special garden. Topiary cone shape can also make a small Christmas tropical living tree. For starting or continuing a family tradition, a live tree offers a distinct advantage over the cut variety. You can look at it every year and think, “Remember when we did that?'" Happy holidays!

Holiday Drinks DURING the Christmas holidays, there is lots of socializing, eating and of course drinking. Many people are concerned with the kinds of food they eat and the amount of food they eat during the holidays because they do not want to gain any extra weight. This is important and should be encouraged; however, watching how much we drink is equally important. Drinking alcoholic drinks in moderation is important and should be encouraged for many reasons. Too much alcohol (1) decreases our inhibitions which can cause us to overeat or overindulge in festive foods (2) makes driving a very dangerous event for everyone involved and (3) adds excess calories to our meals. These are just a few of the many reasons why it is important that we consume alcohol moderately, if at all. Many of us get so caught up in watching how much we eat, that we forget all about the excessive amounts of calories that are in the holiday drinks. I know that you do not need anything else to stress over so part of my job is to help you enjoy the holidays and be stress free. While I am not a drinker and wish it were so for everyone else, I know that is not likely to happen; so, I did some research and with the help of fellow Dietitians at Cooking Light was able to come up with a list of “skinnier” and healthier drinks. The recipes that I found add in pomegranate, cinnamon and cranberry. These ingredients have had much scientific research done and proved they are some of nature powerhouses—filled with antioxidants and natural health benefits. Cranberries have long been known for helping to prevent urinary tract infections but they are also excellent sources of Vitamin C, manganese and flavonoids—an antioxidant which helps to protect against cell damage. Cranberry Cosmopolitan: 1/2 cup Cranberry Liqueur 1/4 cup Cointreau 2 tablespoons lime juice Mix with 1 cup crushed ice; strain into martini glass. Pomegranates are rich in Vitamin C, B6, and potassium. Plus they are full of cancer fighting phytonutrients. Cooking Light helps you add some holiday cheer with this sparkling pomegranate cocktail. Simply mix pomegranate juice, sweet grenadine, and chilled, dry sparkling wine for a refreshing cocktail. Cinnamon is currently being researched for its role in regulating and maintaining normal blood sugar levels which is good news for persons with diabetes. Cinnamon can be added to coffee, apple cider drinks as well as sprinkled onto foods for a sweet, spicy finish. As you can see, being healthy during the holidays is intentional; it just doesn’t happen. Search for drink recipes that are lower in calories and fat but add in healthy ingredients. Also, be mindful of the amount you are drinking; 1-2 cocktails is plenty. So this holiday, follow these tips and raise your glass to your health and festivity. Merry Christmas!

ACCU Medical Nutrition is based in Graceway IGA Plaza, Providenciales. Call 946 8308, 242 3978 or 442 3978.

20 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

Christmas message from the Bishop of the Bahamas and the TCI

“A Child has been born for us, a Son given to us; authority rests upon His shoulders; and He is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6) One common feature of the modern world is cynicism, the view that nothing matters any more, nothing is important, everything is a waste of time, nothing is worth fighting for. Many people actually approach life from this perspective. The dictionary defines cynicism as the distrusting of the motives of others, having contempt for standards of honesty and morality, being bitter and sneering toward what others

regard as good and wholesome. Many people are cynical because they have been hurt, disappointed or betrayed by someone, because they feel overwhelmed by life or by their circumstances, because they get no enjoyment out of life any more, or because life is simply not turning out the way that they expected it to turn out. What a space to live in!! If you feel this way, then Christmas is for you because Christmas is about the love of God for the world and God sending His son because of that love. The only way to counteract cynicism is with love. Love heals

The Bishop of the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands

wounds, Love mends broken hearts. Love reconnects what and been divided and restores trust. 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 The Love of Christ at Christmas can change lives and circumstances. The love that we show to others can do this. The love that others give to us can heal our own hurts and

Two more robberies reported in Leeward Palms Following two separate robberies in Leeward Palms last week, two more incidents were reported on Friday, December 14, at 7:56pm. A 34 year male resident of Leeward Palms, Providenciales contacted 911 Centre and reported that about 7:30pm he was at home in Leeward when he saw two male subjects walking around near his home. The victim became concerned, so he exited his home and approached the two male subjects to determine why they were walking around the area at night. It was at this point that one of the males told him to be quiet and both of the male subjects ran towards him and placed what

appeared to be pistols at his head. The two male subjects then taped his arms and mouth. One of the male subjects who was described as sixfeet tall and wearing a Black T-shirt and Blue Jeans with a red bandana around his mouth then went into his home. The other male subject remained with victim. A short while later, the male subject who went into the victim’s home, exited carrying various items. Both male subjects fled the scene at this point, leaving the victim taped and bounded on the ground unharmed. Both male subjects had local accents and are believed to be between the ages of 15 to 18 years. Police officers responded to the

Man attacked and robbed in Kew Town

A male resident of Kew Town, Providenciales contacted 911 center and reported that five (5) males where fighting in a public place. The man told Police that while he was inside a bar located in Kew Town, he was attacked by three males that were known to him. He was dragged outside at

which time he was relieved of his Blackberry Bold cellular phone. The victim was transported to the Cheshire Hall Medical Center where he was examined and released with non-life threatening injuries. Police are currently in search of the said three males for questioning into this incident.

Three separate Blue Hills robberies under investigation

A robbery in Blue Hills on December 13 at 6:00pm is being investigated. A 27 year old female resident of Blue Hills, Providenciales, reported that she secured her home earlier that morning and upon returning at 6:00p,, discovered that her home had been broken into. Missing are numerous electronic items. The investigation is being continued by the Criminal Investigations Department. On Saturday, December 15, at 12:45pm a female resident of Blue Hills, reported that she secured her home at 10am and upon her return at 12:45pm, discovered that her home had been broken into. Missing is a Black HP Laptop Computer.

Also on Sunday, December 16, at 7pm a 20 year old female resident of Blue Hills, reported that she was walking along Bay Road, Blue Hills in the vicinity of the Old Smokey’s when an unknown male subject jumped out of the nearby bushes and attacked her from behind. The male subject began punching her and then pushed her down to the ground. The male subject took her Blackberry phone and ran off into the nearby bushes. The Blue Hills resident who was bruised about her body told police that her attacker was wearing all black clothing. Police officers immediately searched the area but were unable to locate the male subject or recover the Blackberry phone. The investigation is continuing.

report and set up a containment area, but the two male subjects were not located nor were the stolen items recovered. The male subjects in this incident are considered armed and dangerous. The public area urged to report suspicious persons seen in their neighborhood and not approach or confront them. On Tuesday, December 18, at 12:48am a 66 year old male resident of Leeward Palms, , reported that he was in his bed when he heard a strange noise being made in his residence.

Upon exploring the cause of the noise, he saw a dark skin male dressed in a long sleeve shirt and tan colored pants on his hands and knees creeping through his bedroom door. The complainant then observed what appeared to be a gun in the hand of the male subject, who then stood to his feet and escaped through the bedroom door saying “I got a gun”. The male subject fled from the home on foot without stealing anything. Further investigation is being conducted by the Criminal Investigation Department.

disappointments. Ask God to plant that love in your heart and then live out that love in the way that you live each day. It is my earnest prayer that you experience the love of Christ at Christmas in some small way, and then that you pass it to someone. After all, “a Child has been born for us, a Son given to us; authority rests upon His shoulders; and He is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6) The Anglican Diocese of The Bahamas and The Turks and Caicos Islands wishes one and all a Blessed Christmas and a Peaceful New Year.

Turtle Creek woman robbed

A 36 year old female resident of Turtle Creek reported a burglary on Friday, December 14. She told police that her husband secured their home at 9:30am and upon her return at 12:50pm, discovered that their home had been broken into. Missing are numerous electronic items. The investigation is being handled by the Criminal Investigations Department.

Gunshots Domestic dispute under investigation heard from

THE Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police are also investigating a domestic dispute in which it was alleged that a woman was attacked with a hammer. A 38 year old female resident of The Bight reported that she and her ex-boyfriend got into a heated argument which led to her being

assaulted and many of her personal belongings being destroyed. She was taken to Cheshire Hall Medical center where she was later discharged and currently recovering from non-life threatening injuries. Further investigations are being carried out by the Sexual Offences/ Domestic Violence Unit.

Electrical supplied stolen off utility pole The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police are also investigating the theft of various electrical supplies. The report was made on Monday, December 17, at 8:56am. A male resident of North Back Salina, Grand Turk reported that someone stole his electrical supplies off his utility pole. The North Back Salina resident

told officers that he last saw the missing electrical supplies on Sunday, December 16, at about 8:00am and on his return the next morning, he discovered them missing. Further investigations are to be carried out by officers from the Beat and Patrol Unit.

Kew Town resident robbed in Five Cays THE Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police are investigating a robbery which was reported on December 13 at 1:20pm. A resident of Kew Town, Providenciales reported that while walking in Five Cays along the South Dock Road, he was approached by a

black male who threatened to shoot him and demanded he give him his vehicle. The vehicle which was stolen is a black Toyota Corolla with the registration number 25044. The suspect in this incident is considered armed and dangerous.

Kingstown

AT 11:45pm on Saturday, December 15, the 911 Center received a report that multiple gunshots were being discharged in the Leeward Highway area in the Vicinity of Kingstown. Officers from the Tactical Unit attended and determined from numerous persons that there were gunshots were heard but the person responsible was not seen. There has been no report of injuries or damage.

Donahue Bassett sentenced for assault ON Sunday, November 16, Donahue Bassett was arrested for Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm. It was reported that on the same date that while at the Jam Rock bar located on the Airport Road, Bassett asked a female to dance, to which she refused. He then slapped and hit her in the face with a bottle. Bassett, who was formally charged and cautioned for the said offence, and pleaded guilty in the Magistrates Court on Monday morning, December 17. He is currently serving six months imprisonment for assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

December 20 – January 11, 2013

Insights for your Innerspring

Organizational Architecture

(Part One)

LET US build a house! It will have beautiful furniture, state-of-theart appliances and all the creature comforts; and that’s all there is to my house; it’s finished…welcome to my home! Wait – I know; we’ll build a company! It will sell great products, have striking uniforms and make a lot of money; and that’s all there is to the company…welcome to my business! Hey, let’s form a church! It will meet three times per week, sing soulstirring songs and have a rocking choir; don’t worry about anything else; this is all we need … welcome to my church! Without thinking about it too much you can already see that there are many questions that come to mind about this house, this business and this church. Where are the walls and roof, where are the departments, policies and procedures, where is the governing body or steering committee; in short where is the structure? For the first few editions of this column we focused on ‘The Magic of Thinking BIG’; however, I would like to take a brief detour to fix your focus toward a needful exercise that far too many organizations fail to do - create structure. I call it ‘Organizational Architecture or OA.’ Over the years, I have been associated with a number of businesses. Many of these businesses (whose fiscal year follows the calendar year) use the start of the fall season to forecast what their next year will look like. They make short and long-term goals; they make financial projections, orchestrate their talent and resources, identify areas for improvement and take note of new innovations and opportunities

Message from TCI’s Catholic Mission By Whitney Bain

On behalf of my brother priests, Fr. George Klybus, Fr. Bruno Sammarco, Fr. Giuseppe Fedele, Fr. Rafael Velazquez and the Catholic Community in the Turks and Caicos Islands, I take this occasion to express best wishes for the Christmas Season and throughout the New Year to all people of good will. May the God of infinite goodness scatter the darkness of sin and brighten our hearts with holiness. May He grant us every grace and blessing and keep us safe throughout the coming year. Monsignor Peter Baldacchino

Pastor and Chancellor Our Lady of Divine Providence Roman Catholic Church Leeward Highway Providenciales.

this week

Friday, December 21 to Tuesday, January 1 on the horizon. Simply put, these organizations align themselves. Such organizations are like a powerful locomotive carrying precious cargo to a destination; they are on track and continue to press ahead, gaining momentum at every crank of the engine, until they reach their goals. On the contrary, what good is there to have a powerful locomotive loaded with precious cargo but it has no tracks on which to move? With all its strength, power and capability, it will never realize its potential because it has no means of moving forward in an organized fashion. In this analogy, the tracks

represent the structure needed by the train in order to reach its goal. So when one considers my opening statement, it is clear to see that the house will need a solid foundation and framing (among many other things), the company will require stronger framework and the church will need greater structure in order to stand a chance at being successful. No wonder so many people in groups, businesses and churches are frustrated. Despite all the potential and talents they possess, they are stuck in mediocrity because of the absence of an intentional design and a structured roadmap towards success - they have no tracks on which to progress.

Spectrum of Hope – By Nicole Cox

Do you know what I know? (pressure on joints and muscles), vestibular (motion) and tactile (touch) input is VITAL! Clearly a new bike or a minitrampoline would be a source of endless adventure. AND rewarding homework sets of 1015 minutes with 15-20 of outdoor play can work WONDERS to shape behavior! The trick is to stay in motion. For extended periods of time when he or she must sit in school, perhaps buying a power band (like what is used in yoga or pilates) and tying it around the chair legs to give the child something to kick while in class will help reduce the urges to get up or fidget inappropriately. Also, talk up auditions for the school play. The dramatic arts can be a wonderful outlet for kinesthetic learners. Encourage exploring outside the classroom. If she’s walking along the beach, feeling the sand in her toes, touching shells, she is learning. Encourage him to take notes, draw diagrams, and make models. Quiz her on her vocabulary during a walk around

Friday, December 21

the block, or review spelling while kicking a soccer ball back and forth. Repetitive physical activity is key. Try to send your child to a school that has mandatory physical education. Many schools are cutting P.E. programs, and it is the kinesthetic learners who suffer most. Talk to your child’s teacher about what types of physical outlets may be possible for your child during the academic day. They do not have to be long. A three-minute session with the bouncer seat may be used to reinforce an entire day of appropriate behavior if spaced out over the course of daily academic activities! A stress ball on a key ring may be a great way to keep hands busy while teaching is going on! Consult with your child’s teachers and find ways to give him or her room to “wiggle” so that there are fewer “outbursts” of hyper-activities during the day. Maybe the best gift you can give is a strategy for a successful school year in January!

 Christmas Eve

Tuesday, December 25

 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 airconditioned comfort. Happy Hour specials from 4-7pm Monday-Saturday  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 4426349.

autism awareness

THE Kinesthetic Learner knows EVERYTHING! At least that is what he will want to show you!! “Look at this!”, “Watch me!”, “Can you do this?” are about all the conversation you can get from this kid! “Why take instructions when you already know how to do it?” is his life mantra! Does your child jump right into an activity without thinking twice about asking how to do it? Is he unusually coordinated for his age? Perhaps he’s a Kinesthetic Learner. They MUST: Touch, feel, and handle things, try it themselves first, they will not want to see a demonstration, move their bodies in order to learn something new. For example, this type of learner may read a book with his left hand while bouncing a basketball with his right. Show rather than tell. Unfortunately, some kinesthetic learners are mislabeled as ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), when all they need is a sprint down the hall and back again to regain their focus. For this learner proprioceptive

NEWS 21

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

 Craig Archibold gets the party started at the Regent Palms from 7pm on Friday nights with the sound of classic Caribbean and Motown tunes. Call 946-8666 for details

Saturday, December 22  If you are 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 are held every Saturday at Graceway Sports Centre for mothers and their little ones. Mothers, bring your little ones to dance, jump, twist and shake! Children have fun learning movement basics to fun music and mums get a light exercise while spending quality time. Mums and Tots classes begin at 10am and cost just $10. Dads are welcome! Call Shara Bowen on 244-1103 for more details.

Monday, December 24

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OUR READERS, MAY THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON TAKE YOU THROGH TO THE NEW YEAR

Wednesday, December 26  3rd Annual Maskanoo Celebrations The Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) and the Cultural & Arts Commission (CAC) Maskanoo will be held in the tourist capital of Providenciales, following a route along Grace Bay Road between the Regent Village and Salt Mills Plaza. Persons attending the event will enjoy the street parade, local music, island food, arts, & entertainment.

Monday, December 31  Old Year's Night Old tradition for bringing good luck in the new year. All night service in churches, everyone rings out old year and rings in New Year with bells, church gatherings and community greeting. New Years Eve Parties Ports of Call, Providenciales Live Music - No Cover

Tuesday, January 1

 HAPPY NEW YEAR’S TO ALL OUR READERS! Jump Up! Junkanoo takes place from midnight to sunrise, New Year's morning on most islands.

Got an event you wish to advertise? Call us on 946 4664 or email tcweeklynews@gmail.com for a free listing.

December 20 – January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

The Story behind Christmas Day A little thing that most people don’t know is that the word ‘Christmas’ translates to ‘Mass Of Christ’. More interesting is the way people the world celebrate the holiday. In China persons celebrate Christmas by decorating their homes and trees with paper lanterns, paper flowers, and paper chains. In Iran people refrain from eating any animal products from December 1st until after Christmas church services on December 25th, after which they have a traditional feast of chicken stew. In Venezuela, the folks there attend daily morning church services between December 16th and December 24th. In the capital city of Caracas, it

is customary to roller skate to these services. People in Northern Brazil celebrate Christmas with a traditional play called “Los Pastores”, or “The Shepherds”. In the Brazilian version of this play, the shepherds are always women, and there is a scene where a gypsy attempts to kidnap the Christ child. All across people ‘Do Christmas’ differently. Christmas is a Christian holiday on December 25 that commemorates the birth of Jesus. The history of Christmas dates back over 4000 years since many of our Christmas traditions were celebrated centuries before the Christ child was born. The 12 days of Christmas, the bright fires, the yule log,

the giving of gifts, carnivals (parades) with floats, carollers who sing while going from house to house, the holiday feasts, and the church processions can all be traced back to the early Mesopotamians. Many of these traditions began with the Mesopotamian celebration of New Years. The Mesopotamians believed in many gods, and as their chief god - Marduk. Each year as winter arrived it was believed that Marduk would do battle with the monsters of chaos. To assist Marduk in his struggle the Mesopotamians held a festival for the New Year. This was Zagmuk, the New Year's festival that lasted for 12 days. The Mesopotamian king

would return to the temple of Marduk and swear his faithfulness to the god. The traditions called for the king to die at the end of the year and to return with Marduk to battle at his side. To spare their king, the Mesopotamians used the idea of a "mock" king. A criminal was chosen and dressed in royal clothes. He was given all the respect and privileges of a real king. At the end of the celebration the "mock" king was stripped of the royal clothes and slain, sparing the life of the real king. The Persians and the Babylonians celebrated a similar festival called the Sacaea. Part of that celebration included the exchanging of places, the slaves would become the masters and the masters were to obey. Early Europeans believed in evil spirits, witches, ghosts and trolls. As the Winter Solstice approached, with its long cold nights and short days, many people feared the sun would not return. Special rituals and celebrations were held to welcome back the sun.

In Scandinavia during the winter months the sun would disappear for many days. After thirty-five days scouts would be sent to the mountain tops to look for the return of the sun. When the first light was seen the scouts would return with the good news. A great festival would be held, called the Yuletide, and a special feast would be served around a fire burning with the Yule log. Great bonfires would also be lit to celebrate the return of the sun. In some areas people would tie apples to branches of trees to remind themselves that spring and summer would return. The ancient Greeks held a festival similar to that of the Zagmuk/ Sacaea festivals to assist their god Kronos who would battle the god Zeus and his Titans. The Roman's celebrated their god Saturn. Their festival was called Saturnalia which began the middle of December and ended January 1st. With cries of “Jo Saturnalia!” the celebration would include masquerades in the streets, big

festive meals, visiting friends, and the exchange of goodluck gifts called Strenae (lucky fruits). The Romans decked their halls with garlands of laurel and green trees lit with candles. “Jo Saturnalia!” was a fun and festive time for the Romans, but the Christians though it an abomination to honor the pagan god. However, early Christians wanted to keep the birthday of their Christ child a solemn and religious holiday, not one of cheer and merriment as was the pagan Saturnalia. As Christianity spread they were alarmed by the continuing celebration of pagan customs and Saturnalia among their converts. At first the Church forbid this kind of celebration. But it was to no avail. Eventually it was decided that the celebration would be tamed and made into a celebration fit for the Christian Son of God. Some legends claim that the Christian "Christmas" celebration was invented to compete against the pagan celebrations of December. The 25th was not only sacred to the Romans but also the Persians whose religion Mithraism was one of Christianity's main rivals at that time. The Church eventually was successful in taking the merriment, lights, and gifts from the Saturanilia festival and bringing them to the celebration of Christmas. The exact day of the Christ child's birth has never been pinpointed.

wishes

Happy 27TH Birthday Garnique Happy birthday to you, The number of candles you blew, And the number a years that flew All the strength that you drew And the happiness you knew All the old things and new The love you found so true The dreams you did pursue All these makes you get through Happy birthday to you We love you and pray many more Birthdays Love from your adorable kids: Michael III & Tranique, parents & the entire family circle! We Love You G!

Happy Birthday Straudia

I’m wishing you another year Of laughter, joy and fun, Surprises, love and happiness, And when your birthday’s done, I hope you feel deep in your heart, As your birthdays come and go, How very much you mean to us , More than you can know Happy Birthday from: The Entire Family Circle esp. your little ones: Avion, Kaeson & Tranique

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December 20 – January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

Christmas in the Islands

One of the first to begin spreading the Christmas cheer, the owner transforms his vehicle in grand style

Staff from KB home, all ready for the holidays

Well known television and radio personality, Deandre Hamilton, on site for a shoot that talks about the season

The Regent Village lights up for the holiday season

Getting ready for the Christmas tree lighting in Grand Turk

Walter ‘Bobby’ Morris favours not moving with the crowd and as he does every year, this year the local toymaker introduced his ‘Slow Fast Boat’.

Scores of cheerful children at the Regent Village’s third annual street lighting

A sale attracts this customer as she shops for toys for her loved ones

Ready for the holidays, smiles and all

Nothing like a new bike to add some cheer to the holidays

Santa Claus giving treats to excited children at Seven Star’s Christmas tree lighting

Eyeing a big prize for the holidays

A big TV for a big Christmas

These children dive right in and seize what catches their eye

December 20 – January 11, 2013

The last present under the tree There is one last present under the Christmas tree, I wonder whose it is? Is it for the little girl with the rocking horse,

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS Or is it for Grandma or Aunt Liz? It looks so lonely, Sitting there by itself; It’d certainly be an awesome addition On "somebody’s" shelf.

"Who does it belong to?" Keeps rattling in my head; I decided to snatch a peek, And see whose name is on the card; It’d only take a second, It won’t be very hard.

The ribbon is gold, The paper is paisley red;

When no one was looking, I reached under the tree,

25 Carefully handling the package, "Who knows, it may be for me!" But when I read the card, But when I read the card, I thought it was extraordinarily odd, Because the message read: “Love and blessing,” God. (Joel Bjorlin)

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

With Appreciation at the Holidays With best wishes from our family to yours for a most memorable, magical holiday season. Thanks for giving us so much to celebrate this year!

Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales

Telephone: 946-4898

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December 20 – January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Happy Holidays

December 20 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

One of the real joys of the Holiday Season is the opportunity to say Thank You and to wish you the very best for the New Year.

Turks and Caicos

From all of us here at the

Weekly News C h r i s t m a s

e d i t i o n

Merry Christmas From our entire team

With appreciation for your business and with warmest wishes for a happy Holiday Season and a prosperous New Year

Connolly Kia Ltd. Tropical Plaza, Grace Bay Road. Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands. Tel: (649) 941-7264, (649) 946-5300. Fax: (649) 941-7265, (649) 946-5456. Email: tropical@tciway.tc

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May Faith be Your Guide And may our gratitude and best wishes follow. Merry Christmas and many thanks!

Nell's Gift Shop Leeward Highway. Providenciales. Tel: 941-3228

VISIT OUR CHILDREN SHOP FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR KIDS

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December 20 – January 11, 2013

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Bermuda opposition party wins election ends 14 years of labour rule (TDN) THE One Bermuda Alliance (OBA) defeated the ruling Progressive Labour Party (PLP) by 19 seats to 17 in the December 17,2012 general elections in Bermuda. Outgoing Premier and finance minister Paula Cox lost her seat as the PLP’s 14 year reign came to an abrupt halt. The OBA reversed the PLPs 24 seats to its 10 seats in the current Parliament to take over the reins of power in the country. Other prominent candidates within the PLP who lost their seats are Education Minister Dame Jennifer Smith, who steered the PLP to its first election victory in 1998, and Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Patrice Minors. None of the 15 independent

candidates won their seats. The new Premier will be OBA leader Craig Cannonier, who is a relative novice to the country’s political scene. His party won 52 percent of the vote to the PLPs 47 percent. Turnout was relatively high with over 90 percent of the 43,767 registered voters participating in the poll. The OBA campaigned on a platform of choice and change even as unemployment reached historically high levels of 10 percent and the domestic debt ballooned to US $1.4 billion. In commenting on his party’s victory, Canonnier said that it was a new day for Bermuda and that he was anxious to get to work to restore the country’s economy.

MPs agree to oust Mac (CNS) LAWMAKERS in the Cayman Islands passed a vote of no confidence on Tuesday ousting embattled Premier McKeeva Bush from office one week after he was arrested on suspicion of corruption. Members of parliament voted 11-3 with one abstention to remove Bush as the head of government in the British territory, a major financial center and offshore home to more than half of the world's hedge funds. Five UDP members of parliament, earlier, signed a letter along with the opposition calling for a no confidence in the government debate, which will see Premier Mckeeva Bush ousted from office before the end of Tuesday. With no agreement among

the United Democratic Party on how to handle the crisis of their leader’s arrest, Juliana O’Connor Connolly, Rolston Anglin, Mark Scotland, Cline Glidden and Dwayne Seymour have put their names on a letter along with all of the opposition members, forcing a sitting of the House, after the speaker failed to respond to the opposition leader’s request Monday. Ezzard Miller, the independent member for North Side, confirmed to CNS Tuesday morning that the letter from the opposition benches had been submitted to the speaker with eleven signatures -- four more than the seven required to trigger the emergency meeting, which was done later in the day.

St. Lucia’s net foreign direct investment has risen by 81.6 % this year.

St Lucia sees Caribbean’s biggest increase in net foreign direct investment Net foreign direct investment in St Lucia has risen by 81.6 this year percent compared to 2011, the largest increase in the Caribbean this year, according to estimates from the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean. Net foreign direct investment is defined as direct investment in a country’s economy after deduction of outward direct investment by residents of that country. It includes the reinvestment of profits. Net FDI in St Lucia reached $138 million in 2012, up from $76 million in 2011. St Lucia was one of seven Caribbean countries that saw an increase in Net FDI in the period, along with Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, the

Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago. In terms of raw volume, the Dominican Republic saw the largest increase, with an increase of $1.4 billion. The Dominican Republic led the region with a total of $3.78 billion in Net FDI. While Haiti’s Net FDI increased in 2010 and 2011, the country saw its number fall in 2012, from $181 million to $124 million. Haiti’s growth projections were lowered in 2012 due in part to the impact of a series of storms, but it’s not clear whether that had an impact on the country’s FDI. St Kitts and Nevis suffered the largest drop-off in foreign investment, falling 51.4 percent to $69 million.

Cayman Islands premier points accusing finger at Britain EMBATTLED Cayman Islands Premier McKeeva Bush says he has no intention of stepping down from office despite his detention of alleged corruption and pointed to Britain as being behind his efforts to weaken him politically. Bush, who addressed graduates of the University College of the Caribbean (UCC) on Thursday, was released on bail until February next year. He accused British Governor Duncan Taylor and other political opponents for playing a role in his arrest earlier this week on suspicion of theft, in connection with financial irregularities relating to the alleged misuse of a government credit card. In a statement released after Bush’s arrest, the British Governor’s Office said that Cayman police will “carry out a robust, fair and comprehensive investigation regardless of the individual concerned”. The authorities said Bush was also being held on breach of trust, abuse of office and conflict of interest, contrary to S13, S17 and S19 of the Anti-Corruption Law 2008 respectively. He was also detained in connection with the alleged importation of explosive substances without valid permits on or before February 2012. “We are a British overseas territory and as such it is run by the governor and the commissioner of police. And

McKeeva Bush was arrested on Tuesday and held for two days of questioning.

so I can’t miss that it is nothing but a political, very vindictive political witch hunt,” said Bush, 57, who came to power in 2009. Bush said he wanted to reveal the “whole story” behind his arrest but his lawyers advised him not to speak specifically about the allegations. But he was confident he would be vindicated. “I have been told by my lawyers to be careful of what I say and I have to go by that,” he said, adding “I would just say that I have done nothing wrong. I have made a lot of friends and I have made a lot of enemies. There are a lot of jealous people in a very small island. “I have been in government a long

time; I think this is a political witchhunt and a very vindictive one by a petty and jealous governor,” Bush told journalists after the ceremony. Bush had been scheduled to receive an honorary doctorate for public service from the UCC, but the school’s chancellor, Herbert Thompson, said school officials decided to wait on the outcome of the investigations. In his address to the graduates, Bush, advised them to be tenacious, always play by the rules and tell the truth. “A reputation takes a lifetime to build and a moment to dismantle,” he said, adding, “you can only be a person of integrity if you are and you can only apply leadership of integrity if you apply it and follow it”. He said that integrity in leadership brings challenges. “I know that all too well this week; those of you who desire to take the career of political leadership ought to do so as it is an admirable career if we do it right. “As you observe these rules and pack them in your pockets, if you ever need them when you leave here to begin a new chapter of your life, remember you are the sole author of your story. Make it count. Each word you utter, and each smile you impart matter. If you live your lives well, it will be passed down in the hands of the people you love, do good and good will follow.

Guyana-born UN official seeks billions in Caribbean aid A GUYANESE-born United Nations official is seeking US$8.5 billion to fund emergency response programmes for humanitarian aid to millions of people in the Caribbean and around the world in 2013. “There is no let-up in humanitarian needs in the world,” the UnderSecretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Valerie Amos, told reporters here after she and other senior UN and humanitarian aid officials launched the appeal. “They are displaced from their homes, hungry, unprotected and vulnerable, living with the consequences of natural disasters and violent conflict,” she added. The funding call is made under the annual Consolidated Appeals Process (CAP) that, since its launch by the UN General Assembly in 1991, has become a central tool used by the world body and other aid organisations to plan, coordinate, fund, implement and monitor their activities. Amos said the appeal is directed

Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Valerie Amos, said the appeal is directed at governments, private individuals and businesses.

at governments, private individuals and businesses, among others, as she called on them to “contribute to saving lives in 2013.” She highlighted that 520 UN agencies, non-governmental and other aid organizations have come

together to launch the call with the aim to “deliver aid in an effective and coordinated way.” The Under-Secretary-General also noted how international responses both buttress and enhance local efforts, which she saluted, saying that communities, civil society organizations, businesses, local and national governments were the “first responders, and, throughout a protracted crisis, important providers of support and help.” Amos said that last year’s CAP appeal for US$7.7 billion to help 51 million people in distress remained 40 per cent underfunded. “This means that people in need in some parts of the world have not been able to get the help they would have had we got the money,” she said, adding that it was too early to tell how the global financial crisis might affect funding levels this year. She stressed that a “unified response can save lives and help communities become more resilient.” (CMC)

CCJ to sit in Jamaica for Shanique Myrie case THE Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) is to sit in Jamaica for the first time from March 4 – 12 to hear the Shanique Myrie case. Myrie has taken the Barbadian Government to the CCJ on allegations that she was assaulted by an immigration officer last year. The court had a case management hearing today and the trial dates were set. Myrie’s lawyer Michelle Brown asked for the first part of the trial to be held in Jamaica because it will be too costly for Jamaican witnesses to travel to Barbados and Trinidad. She says the CCJ’s panel of

judges will be coming in March and the hearings will be held either at the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal. The attorney says the second part of the hearing will be from March 18 – 22 in Barbados and that lawyers will make oral submissions in Trinidad from April 8-9. She also says the court is anxious to have matter heard and completed early. Myrie has accused Barbadian border officials of assaulting her during a cavity search at the Grantley Adams International Airport on March 14 last year.

Shanique Myrie has taken the Barbadian government to court over allegations that she was assaulted by an immigration officer last year.

She also claims that she was subjected to forceful and brutish language by airport officials on her arrival.

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

Obama delivers emotional speech and vows gun reform after shooting PRESIDENT Obama comforted the nation and gave solace to Newtown’s inconsolable families Sunday — and strongly hinted he would seek a legislative solution to the wave of mass shootings that has haunted America on his watch. Saying he was tormented by the massacre of 27 victims in Connecticut and the paroxysm of mass slaughter that has brought him to console grieving communities four times during his presidency, Obama signalled that in the weeks ahead he will deploy “whatever power this office holds” to seek reform of gun laws. “Can we say we’re truly doing enough to give all the children of this country the chance they deserve to live out their lives in happiness and with purpose?” a somber Obama asked as audience members wept openly. “If we’re honest with ourselves, the answer is no,” he said. “We’re not doing enough, and we’ll have to change.” He also made a heartbreaking personal connection with the infant granddaughter of slain Sandy Hook Elementary School Principal Dawn Hochsprung, the martyred 47-yearold who died while lunging at the gunman in a heroic and doomed effort to overpower him. Cradling the adorable child in his arms, with his jaw set and his face a portrait of grief and resolve, the comforter-in-chief tried to lift the boundless pain of a picture-postcard

The deputy prime minister blamed the “tribal” nature of both the Conservative and Labour parties for what he sees as their inability to remain on the centre ground of British politics.

President Obama poses with family members of victim Emilie Parker.

New England village that overnight has become a gruesome national symbol of unspeakable evil. “My mom would be SO proud to see President Obama holding her granddaughter,” tweeted Cristina Hassinger, the principal’s brave daughter. “But not as proud as I am of her,” she added. All was hushed at Newtown High School as Obama took the stage barely one mile from the elementary school where 12 first-grade girls and eight first-grade boys — all of them only 6 or 7 years old — and six adult women were cut down. “We have come to remember 20 beautiful children and six remarkable adults,” Obama told the mourners at

the interfaith service. “We have come to a school that could have been any school — in a town that could have been any town in America . . .“Newtown — you are not alone,” Obama proclaimed. His voice was even, but he was emotionally vested in the audience of more than 1,500, and at one point, he appeared to brush away a tear with his index finger. “Are we prepared to say that such violence visited upon our children year after year after year is somehow the price of our freedom?” the President asked. “No single law or set of laws can eliminate evil from the world,” the President proclaimed . . . . But that can’t be an excuse for inaction.”

Death toll from Typhoon Bopha tops 1,000 in the Philippines THE grim toll from a typhoon that devastated southern Philippines earlier this month continues to climb, with 1,020 reported dead as of Sunday morning, authorities said. Officials fear the toll from the December 4 storm will rise further. Because while rescue crews continue searching, the chances of finding people alive dim with each passing day. With 844 still missing and 1.2 million families displaced, Bopha is the strongest and deadliest storm to hit the Philippines this year, according to the country’s emergency management agency. Among the missing are hundreds of fishermen who went to sea before the storm hit. Officials hope that they could yet be found sheltering on small islands out at sea. If the death toll continues to rise, Bopha could eventually prove deadlier than Tropical Storm Washi, which killed 1,268 people a year ago. But its toll would still remain far below that of Tropical Storm Thelma, the country’s most lethal

Residents gather their belongings after their house was destroyed by strong winds brought about by Typhoon Bophal earlier this month.

storm on record that left more than 5,000 people dead in 1991. The worst of the death and destruction from Bopha took place on the southern island of Mindanao, where the storm hit first and hardest with gusts as strong as 220 kph (138 mph).

The storm, known locally as Pablo, was the most powerful typhoon to hit Mindanao in decades. It set off flash floods and landslides that engulfed people sheltering in their rickety houses in remote, unprepared regions of the island. (CNN)

Ukraine murders: puzzle over Kharkiv beheadings Police in Ukraine are investigating the unexplained beheading of a judge and his family. The headless bodies of Judge Vladimir Trofimov and his wife, as well as their son and his girlfriend, were found at their home in the eastern city of Kharkiv. The heads were missing. Ukraine’s interior minister and general prosecutor flew to Kharkiv

on Sunday. Police said the murders might be connected to the judge’s work, or to his extensive collection of antiques. Mr Trofimov, 58, was well known for collecting rare coins, World War II medals and china statuettes. Some antiques were reportedly missing. The other victims were Mr

Trofimov’s wife Irina, 59, their son Sergei, 30, and his girlfriend Marina Zoueva, 29. The case recalls the murder of Georgy Gongadze, an investigative journalist, in 2000, says the BBC’s David Stern in Ukraine. Mr Gongadze, an active critic of the government, disappeared and his headless body was found in a forest outside Kiev. (BBC)

Clegg hits out at ‘draconian’ wing of Conservative Party DEPUTY Prime Minister Nick Clegg has criticised “siren voices” among Conservatives for seeking to impose “draconian” cuts on the welfare system. In a speech marking his five years as Lib Dem leader he claimed his party curbed plans for an extra £10bn in welfare cuts, and had “anchored reform in the sensible centre ground”. Ministers had a duty to ensure that “further reforms” were fair, he added. But Labour accused him of trying to distance himself from broken pledges. His speech marks the eve of the fifth anniversary of his election as Liberal Democrat leader but comes at a time when some opinion polls suggest his party has slipped to fourth, behind UKIP. BBC political editor Nick Robinson said the deputy prime minister believed “it is time the public understood that policymaking in government is like a kitchen in which all sorts of recipes are suggested but only some make it onto the menu”. “He wants voters to know which ingredients the Lib Dems added and, just as importantly, which they insisted were left out.” ‘TRIBAL’ Mr Clegg conceded that changes to the welfare system had at times been “painful and controversial”. His party “agreed £3.8bn of benefit cuts” in negotiations on the content of the Chancellor George Osborne’s Autumn Statement, he said, with benefits going up by 1% - below inflation - in line with public sector pay increases. But, he added, the Lib Dems had blocked “more extreme” plans to “penalise families with more than two children by taking away child benefit” and “penalise young people who want to move away from home in search of a job by denying them housing benefit”. The deputy prime minister blamed the “tribal” nature of both the Conservative and Labour parties for what he sees as their inability to remain on the centre ground of British politics. “There are some on the right who believe that no-one could possibly be out of work unless they’re a scrounger,” he argued. ‘TOTAL COLLAPSE’ “If you can’t find a job you must be lazy. If you say you’re too sick to

work you’re probably pretending. “The siren voices of the Tory right who peddle this myth could have pulled a majority Conservative government in the direction of draconian welfare cuts.” By contrast, he said, the Lib Dems were “a centre-ground party” delivering “centre-ground reforms”. He indicated his support for means-testing of benefits such as winter fuel payments and free bus passes for pensioners, saying he would “support fairness by making clear that money should not be paid to those who do not need it - looking again at universal benefits paid to the wealthiest pensioners”. In the question session after the speech, he explained: “We have a coalition agreement commitment to maintain those universal benefits for all pensioners, so I’m not asking the prime minister to re-open that during this Parliament. “What I’m saying... is in the future, as we make further savings... I just don’t think it’s justifiable or sustainable when so many other people are tightening their belts, that multi-millionaire pensioners still receive universal benefits across the board.” In his address to the Centre Forum think tank, Mr Clegg acknowledged that his party had acquired a “harder edge” since going into coalition with the Conservatives, but the alternative was “a retreat to the comfort and relative irrelevance of opposition”. He described the welfare system designed by the former Labour government as both badly designed and financially unaffordable. “When two -thirds of people think the benefits system is too generous and discourages work then it has to be changed, or we risk a total collapse in public support for welfare existing at all,” he said. “We need welfare protection for people who fall on hard times. Of course. But you cannot ask low-income working people to pay through their taxes for people who aren’t in work to live more comfortably than they do.” Labour’s deputy leader Harriet Harman commented: “Nick Clegg will try every trick in the book to distance himself from the record of his government. “But as ever, with the Lib Dems, they say one thing whilst doing another - resulting in a record of economic failure, trebled tuition fees, nurses cut, police axed and millions paying more while millionaires get a tax cut.” (BBC)

December 20 – January 11, 2013

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

India ‘gang-rape’: Student, friend attacked on Delhi bus The Scottish population rose at its highest rate in a century.

Census shows ‘highest’ Scottish population ever THE first set of results from the 2011 Census in Scotland have shown that the population of the country was at its highest level ever. The population on Census Day was 5,295,000 - up 5% (233,000) since 2001 and the highest rise between two censuses in the past century. The number of people aged over 65 grew by 11% but the number of children between five and 14 fell by 11%. Combined with other census figures, the total UK population was 63,181,775. The census was carried out on 27 March 2011. More details of the Scottish results will be released next year.

The first release of the data showed population estimates by sex and five-year age bands, as well as the total population estimates for each council area in Scotland. The figures showed that the Scottish population was made up of 2,728,000 women and 2,567,000 men. For the first time ever, the number of people aged 65 and over was higher than the number aged under 15. The number of over-65s has increased by 85,000 (11%) since 2001, and now represents some 17% of the total population. There were 230,000 people aged 80 and over in 2011, an increase of 19% on the figure of 193,000 in 2001. (BBC)

A 23-year-old Indian student has been allegedly gang-raped inside a bus in the capital, Delhi, police say. The woman was travelling with a male friend on Sunday night when they were attacked. They were brutally beaten, stripped and thrown out of the vehicle. Both have been admitted to hospital. The condition of the woman is reported to be “critical”. Delhi is often called the “rape capital of India” - police recorded more than 550 cases in the city last year. Correspondents say Delhi can be a very difficult city for women, with sexual harassment commonplace and rapes and abduction all too frequent. The capital’s rape figures are higher than for other Indian cities of comparable size, they say. Police have registered a case and Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit has promised “strict action” against those responsible. The woman and her friend had boarded the bus from Munirka area and were on their way to Dwarka in south-west Delhi. They were returning after watching a film in a mall in south Delhi, police said. The couple were attacked by “at least four men”, police said. Some reports said the attackers included

Delhi has one of the highest rates of crime against women in India.

the bus staff (the driver has since been arrested). On Monday, senior police officer Chhaya Sharma appealed to the public to help identify the owner of the bus. At a press conference, police showed camera recordings of a white luxury bus which they said could have been the one used in the crime. Reports say the alleged rape took place on a “white line” bus - such services run by private operators have higher fares and fewer stops. They employ more upmarket vehicles to supplement the city’s public bus network.

Shooter was burning self with lighter before fatal day Philippines House passes LESS than a week before her son would launch his horrifying attack on Sandy Hook Elementary School, gun-loving mom Nancy Lanza knew “she was losing him” and that “he was getting worse.” A drinking buddy of Lanza’s told the Daily News that her son Adam had long been troubled and rarely came up in conversation. “She just looked down at the glass and said, ‘I don’t know. I’m worried I’m losing him,’” said the bar pal, who asked not to be named, of the ominous conversation at the watering hole My Place in Newtown, Conn. “She said it was getting worse. She was having trouble reaching him.” Adam, who killed Nancy Lanza, 54, before unleashing a nightmarish attack that killed 20 children and six others at the school Friday, was prone to hurting himself, the drinking buddy said. “Nancy told me he was burning himself with a lighter. In the ankles or arms or something,” he recalled of a conversation they had about a year ago. “It was like he was trying to feel something.” Authorities say Adam, 20, shot himself as police stormed the school that had become one of the most horrifying crime scenes in recent memory. In hindsight, the conversation last week over craft beers could not have been more foreboding, the friend said. “It was weird. She never really talked about (Adam),” he said. “She mainly talked about her oldest kid (Ryan). I knew about the other one, but she never spoke much about him. “She looked disturbed. She was looking down at her glass and kind of talking slowly,” he added. Nancy’s morose disposition could not have been more was totally out of character. “You have to know Nancy to

reproductive health bill

Adam Lanza, seen here in 2005, earned a 3.26 GPA at Western Connecticut State University while enrolled at age 16.

know how weird that was,” he said. “She was just always so full of life.” As she lamented her son’s deteriorating mental state, the drinking buddy took a phone call. When he started chatting with her again, the subject had changed and Nancy was acting her normal, happy self. Lanza’s anonymous pal had nothing but fond memories of the die-hard Red Sox fan who had season tickets to Fenway Park. “She was a country girl” who loved to hunt with a falcon that would scare game she’d blast out of the sky, he said. She had “at least a dozen” firearms — mainly larger rifles,” the friend added. He said he didn’t know anything about the pistols. “Adam learned how to shoot a rifle by the time he was 9 years old,” said the friend, who added that he never met the disturbed kid. “They would go to the range.” But she was no reckless gun nut. “Nancy was a responsible gun owner,” the friend said. “It was important that she teach her son how to responsibly use a firearm.” Her relationship with her exhusband, Peter Lanza, was strained. “She didn’t talk about him a lot, but I knew they didn’t get along,” the friend said. (NYdailynews.com)

LAWMAKERS on Monday approved legislation calling for government-funded contraception and sex education classes in the Philippines, a first in the heavily Catholic nation. “Our legislature took an historic vote today for women and families as it successfully passed the Reproductive Health Bill. We thank our senators and congressmen who voted for access to information and care,” said presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda. A reconciliation committee must now work out differences in the versions of the legislation passed by each house before it is sent to President Benigno Aquino, who is expected to sign it. Legislative leaders hope to finish their work and send the bill to Aquino by Wednesday before going on Christmas break, the official Philippines News Agency reported. Despite widespread popular support, the Catholic Church has

opposed the measure, saying it will destroy marriage and morality in the Philippines. More than 80% of the Philippines’ 96 million residents are Catholic. Gabriel Reyes, bishop of the diocese of Antiopolo and chairman of the Episcopal Commission on Family and Life, said the passage of the bill marked “a sad day for the country.” But Lacierda said the legislation will help the country’s citizens to raise families in a “just and empowered” way. “The passage of the Responsible Parenthood Bill signals not only a new chapter in our agenda of inclusive growth; it also begins a process of healing for the wounds that may have been opened by an often feisty democracy,” he noted. Sen. Edgardo Angara, who voted for the measure, called the bill “an affirmation of human rights,” according to CNN affiliate ABSCBN.

The incident has led to outrage in the city. “This is a shocking incident. I hope that the guilty are punished for the heinous crime,” Delhi’s Women and Child Development Minister Kiran Walia said. The chairperson of the National Commission for Women, Mamata Sharma: “Such incidents are increasing in Delhi. Police and government should be really alert. “We will get an inquiry done and will also inquire with the police as to what action has been taken so far.” (BBC)

Landmine kills 10 girls collecting firewood TEN girls were killed in eastern Afghanistan on Monday when a landmine exploded as they were out collecting firewood -- the latest casualties in one of the most mined countries in the world. Two other girls were injured in the incident in Nangarhar province, said Ahmad Zia Abdulzai, the spokesman for the province’s governor. Landmines -- those planted by insurgents and those left over from the Soviet occupation -- continue to kill dozens of Afghans every year. “Naturally curious, children are likely to pick up strange objects, such as the infamous toy-like ‘butterfly’ mines that Soviet forces spread by the millions in Afghanistan,” according to UNICEF.

Police stop mass shooting on same day of Connecticut shooting HOURS after the bloodshed at a Connecticut school, police stopped what would have been a second mass school-shooting on Friday, arresting an Oklahoma teenager plotting to kill dozens of his classmates. Sammie Eaglebear Chavez, 18, told friends at Bartlesville High School that he wanted to lure their schoolmates and teachers to the gym and then open fire, according to officials. He also claimed to have explosives he planned to detonate once police arrived. A classmate overheard Chavez scheming on Thursday and cops arrested him early Friday before he

could carry out his plan. A judge in the small city of Bartlesville, which lies about an hour north of Tulsa, ordered that Chavez be held on $1 million bail. Investigators believe Chavez owned a Colt .45 handgun and had been researching how to obtain explosives and higher-powered firearms. He also frequently discussed the 1999 shootings at Columbine High school. The motive for the plot was not immediately known. Investigators do not suspect the scheme was linked to or inspired by the shooting in Newtown, Conn., that left 20 children dead. (NYdailynews.com)

Sammie Eaglebear Chavez is accused of plotting a mass shooting in his Bartlesville, Okla. high school. He was arrested Friday, the same day 20 children were murdered in Newton, Conn. at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Flashback: Sarah Cenary, who scored nine goals in three games for the TCI Select team, is seen here with the TCIFA’s Technical Director Matthew Green.

December 20 – January 11, 2013

Our young girls were no babies on the sand. They played well and made TCI very proud.

Women’s International Beach Soccer Tournament:

TCI Select make history with inaugural victory – Local U-16 footballers also outstanding THE local supporters left the first ever Women’s International Beach Soccer Tournament (December 14-16) as a proud group since our Women’s team (the TCI Select) walked away with the spoils for having played undefeated to championship honours. They were also celebrating because our young girls (U-16) held their own against seasoned international teams: The Bahamas’ national women side and the Minneapolis United from the USA. The TCIFA’s Technical Director Matthew Green called the achievement tremendous and he was on the ball since not only did we show that we can facilitate a high level tournament (the first in the Caribbean), but more importantly we proved that TCI can become the regional powerhouse in this version of the sport owing to a string of young talent. In fact the Women’s team was relatively young, with five players still in their teens. On the opening day, at the TCIFA’s new Beach Soccer venue, the eventual champion edged past the Bahamas 3-2 in a thrilling encounter after the younger girls had whipped the US team 11-3. The younger girls would however lose to the Bahamas on the second day. Despite a competitive clash the game ended 4-1 in the visitor’s favour. Our women’s team ended the day on a high note when they dispatched the US team 8-1 despite trailing 0-1 in the opening minute. The TCI Women just needed a win over their country side to take the title and the win came with relative ease at 8-1 while the Bahamas took second place with an 11-4 win over Minneapolis United. BRING FUTURE Green opined that the future is bright for the sport. “Our TCI Women’s

team won the event and our U-16 team did exceptionally well and we have had hardly any time at all to train the players and make them fully aware of all the rules and tactics involved, so who knows how far we can go if we invest more time in training our Beach Soccer players.” REGIONAL BEACH SOCCER POWERHOUSE Green added: “The Bahamas have been playing the sport longer than us, but if we can beat them it suggests that we can beat many other teams in the region that we would struggle to compete against in regular football. This could be the future of football in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The passion, enthusiasm and skills shown by our players were clear for all to see, they have been tremendous in the last week. They cannot be faulted for their commitment, attitude and conduct – this bodes well for the future. FIFA is keen to develop Beach Soccer and clearly by staging the first international Beach Soccer tournament in the region we aim to be at the forefront at the development of the sport.” DREAM START In the opening clash TCI U-16 got a dream start as Kadine Delphin opened the scoring after just four seconds and Shinaydine Pluviose doubled the lead after 17 seconds with a long range effort. The hosts were soon three up as Yarileny De la Cruz scored the first of her six goals on the two minute mark. The game then settled down and both teams had several chances before Yarielca De La Cruz scored a great individual goal and Fiona Donnelly scored for the visitors. However, there was one more goal before the half as Yarileny De La Cruz dribbled around the goalkeeper to give the U-16 TCI team a comfortable 5-1 lead after the first period. The second period was a low

Clement Howell crowned High School Basketball Champions – After Marjorie Basden forfeit championship game CLEMENT Howell High School are the 2012 High School Basketball Champions. They did not break a sweat in the final clash owing to the historically powerful Marjorie Basden forfeiting the championship clash. Raymond Gardiner finished third with one of their players J. Fulford finishing with a tournament high 60 rebounds and

12 blocks. His team-mate Wooden Corvil led the assist category with nine while Reicko Smith from Maranatha tallied 25 steals. It was however Peterson Sylain from the winning school who had a better overall performance over the five earlier games. He scored 74 points, 19 rebounds, 13 steals, four assists and three blocks.

scoring affair as only one more goal was scored through Yarieny De La Cruz, but the final period produced seven more goals as Andrea Franck scored twice for Minneapolis and Yarileny De La Cruz added three more with support from Yarielca De La Cruz and Monae Gooden who also found the back of the net to round of an impressive performance. In the second clash the TCI Select team was the stronger side and should have dominated the game more, but they were let down by some poor finishing. The opening period was an even affair as both teams fought hard for breakthrough which did not come until halfway through the second period when Simone Smith pounced on a loose ball to give the locals the lead. However the score was soon level as Janae Francis scored from the penalty spot after she was harshly judged to have been fouled. Sarah Cenary however found her scoring touch as she turned and shot late in the second period to give the hosts a well deserved lead. The TCI team started strongly in the final period and should have had the game safe but Jancillia Cox, Simone Smith, Cenary and Jacinda Alfrena all wasted good chances to score. Another moment of controversy almost turned the game on its head as Marie Dorelus, who was superb in goal was adjudged to have fouled Bahamian forward Shagerra Edgecombe despite the fact that Dorelus touched the ball with her hands before contact was made. Edgecombe finished well and a tense finale was set up as both teams pushed hard for a winning goal. However, it was the home team that handled the pressure better and Cox finally got the goal her hard work deserved. The Bahamas were able to extract revenge on the locals with a win against the younger girls on the second day. Neither team could break the deadlock in the opening minute. Chrystal Stirling made some fine saves for the home team and despite creating many chances the young TCI players failed to find the target. Bahamas opened the scoring against the run of play as Edgecombe’s shot managed to just cross over the goal line. This seemed to spur the home team on and Yarielca De La Cruz scored a fine goal to level the scoring. However, immediately after came one of the two controversial incidents as the Bahamas scored directly from the kick off despite having a player standing in an illegal position. Despite protests the goal stood and the local team fell further behind when Janae Francis’s shot was deemed to be a goal despite that the whole of the ball did not seem to

have crossed the line. Losing 3-1 the TCI team had no choice but to go “allout attack”, but sadly they wasted too many scoring chances as well as a missed penalty. The Bahamas added a further goal to ensure victory although Pluviose was clearly fouled in the build-up play. However, the young girls had given 100% against a team that was far bigger, stronger and more experienced. The older team had a better day in the sand as they bounced back from a goal down to score eight consecutive shots, five of which was scored by Cenary. After the first two periods Cenary had completed her quotas of goals while Patrice Senior had scored the other owing to a long range effort. In the final period Gaya Smith got her reward for another strong performance in defence with a goal of her own and Kerrine Rousseaux scored from the penalty

spot to secure the emphatic win. Cenary was again in the thick of things when the two local sides met. She scored a hat-trick with additional goals coming from Cox, Alande Rosima, Senior, Smith and Vanessa Joseph. The U-16 team never gave up and had just as much possession as their opponents but struggled in front of goal. However Crystal Stirling eventually scored for the young team. The day ended with Edgecombe scoring six goals in the Bahamas’ win over the US team. Her six goals took her tally to 10, one ahead of Cenary. Several awards were given out after the final games. Smith and Stirling picked up the MVP awards for the TCIFA teams and the most coveted award went to Pluviose whose determination, strength and skill ensured she was voted the tournament MVP.

Charlie’s Corner:

What I love about Christmas Hi Fans, I asked my mate CJ here what he loves about Christmas. CJ: “You know what I love about Christmas Charlie? Snow. I just love the snow”. Charlie: “Snow? What snow? What are you on about CJ? Have you been drinking?” CJ: “Reindeer then. How about reindeer? I just love the reindeer Charlie”. Charlie: “What? Reindeer? CJ when did you last see a reindeer round here? Have you gone bonkers?” CJ: “Well what about elves then? I just love elves! Tiny little green fellows. Lovely little elves!” Charlie: “Elves! Are you crazy? What have you been eating? Elves round here? Are you insane? They’d need work permits. You won’t get any elves around here matey!” CJ: “Well how about some figgy pudding! I just love a good figgy pudding!” Charlie: “You what? Figgy

flaming pudding! Have you lost your marbles? Are you daft? Have you been out in the sun? When did you last see a figgy pudding round here? Certainly not at the IGA that’s for sure! No. No figgy pudding mate! Try again Sunshine!” CJ: Alright wise guy. Go on Charlie. What do you love about Christmas? Charlie: Well it has to be something real for a start. None of your snow, reindeer, elves rubbish. None of that figgy pudding nonsense either. It has to be something real! CJ: Go on then, what? Charlie: Why Father Christmas of course! A big fat man with a big white beard wearing a big red coat and a big red hat flying through the air in the middle of the night on a big red sleigh dropping presents all over the big wide world. Now that’s what I love about Christmas! Something real CJ! CJ: Wow! And so do I. Merry Christmas everyone!

December 20 – January 11, 2013

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Josh for Sports

The final column for 2012 – General reflections

THERE are times when I sit down and wonder and pose to myself the question where will it all end? I often wonder how many persons will benefit from this column that I have been persistently writing for the past seven years (with the exception of about six months). I wonder if the ants will bring me the news after I’m long gone the route that my fore-fathers have trod and left me to follow. I wonder if my legacy would have a positive impact upon the country of my birth, but that in general despise me so much. I wonder if one day us natives would have discarded that perpetual “Black Crab Mentality” that have stagnated our progress nationalistically, socially, culturally and sport-wise on a national and international level. There are times when I ask myself the question if it was worth it all to dedicate my whole life (unselfishly) to sports as it relates to passing on to and helping persons achieve and recognise their full potentials as they relate to sports and reaping the attending benefits thereof. MY ADDICTION As I said before, at a tender age I was addicted to sucking my thumb (until six years old). I analytically discovered that I did this because I lacked the attention that every child naturally yearned for. I don’t recall ever being held by my mother as kids should be held. I did not experience what emotional affection was, thus I sucked my thumb to find pacification and became addicted. Because I was physically punished for sucking my thumb, I discovered that participating in sports became a place of refuge for me. I was so hooked. NON SUPPORT Not one single day did my parents watch me participate in sports. That hurt me even up to this day.

The Sailrock Lobsters are leading the Mini Division.

Provo Hockey League: By Joshua Gardiner MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS I had an obsession of becoming a World and Olympic champion. At age 16, I unofficially broke the triple jump age group world’s record at my then school Munro College. When in January of 1974 I was diagnosed with all the symptoms of MS my world imploded and that is when I became obsessed with realising my dream through other persons by coaching. Because I was on a mission to accomplish my dream, I became a world class coach, perhaps the youngest ever. Through me many careers began and many of those individuals went on to become Olympic champions as well as World champions and regional champions. I have also inspired several of my past athletes to also take up coaching at the highest level. They in turn have produced several champion of their own. Among these persons include: Rupert Gardiner, Norbert Elliot, Foster Dorsette, Pedro Valdez, Hubert Umbler, Sam McKinney and a host of others, too innumerable to remember. MY UNFINISHED MISSION I have one last dream/vision yet unaccomplished. The unfinished dream that I have is for me to help produce a TC Islander to become an Olympic and World champion the likes of Usain Bolt—that’s a tall order, but not impossible. THE TALENT IS HERE There is no doubt in my mind that we have troves of hidden talent/ treasures here in the TCI, but they are buried. We need to discover, polish and expose all of our talents in all sports to the nation and the world.

TCICA T20 Cricket Competition:

Clair tames Jaguars with 5-19 LEON Clair delivered a superb bowling performance against the Guyana Jaguars to propel Jam Turk to an eight-wicket win when action in the Turks and Caicos Islands Cricket Association (TCICA) T20 Cricket Competition continued last Saturday at the Downtown Ball Park. The Jaguars, who had called correctly, could not get their feet planted at the wicket as Clair sent back five batsmen for 19 runs in 3.5 overs. When the dust had settled and Jeffrey Bascoe had also done his share of the damage with 2-13 from three overs, the Jaguars were left in a penetrable position at 100 all out in 15.5 overs. It took 27 (5X4s) from Walter Henry and 22 (4X4s) from Sean Khan to push the Jaguars to the

Clair took five wickets for Jam Turk

three-figure mark. Jam Turk proved that there was absolutely nothing wrong with the wicket as Bascoe led the charge with an unbeaten 34 (6X4s) with support from Douglas Brown (27).

Lobsters, Sharks and Flames lead at Christmas break MIDGET team the Saunders and Co. Flames enter the Christmas break of the Provo Hockey League with the best record so far this season. They have only lost one game, while the Sailrock Lobsters lead the MiniDivision and the Scotiabank Sharks are slightly ahead in the Bantam Division. The Lobsters are four points clear of opponents the Gansevoort Gators and the Gracebay Car Rentals and

Sales Owls, who are on eight points each. The Lobsters have won six of their nine games while the Gators are at three wins in 10 games and the Owls at three wins in nine games. The Sharks are also in the lead owing to six wins for the first half of the season. Their 13 points were tallied from 10 games while the J & W Construction Hurricanes are just behind on nine points. The Coco

Bistro Lightning are third on four points with just two wins in their nine games. In the Mini Division the Flames who lost just one game, but tied three others, are on 13 points from nine games, while the TCBC Pirates are not far behind on 10 points (three wins in 10 games). The Carib Gaming Panthers are in third position with five points from one win and three ties.

Bin Hammam handed life ban after resigning from FIFA roles MOHAMED Bin Hammam has resigned from his roles within FIFA and will never be active in organised football again, soccer’s world governing body has announced. The Qatari was president of the Asian Football Confederation between August 2002 and August 2011 and had a place on the FIFA Executive Committee. Bin Hammam was accused of issuing bribes to members of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU), including former North American soccer head Jack Warner, in exchanges for votes during his illfated FIFA presidential campaign against current chief Sepp Blatter. He denied the charges and vowed to clear his name. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) subsequently annulled his lifetime ban from FIFA based on a lack of evidence, though the body stressed the 63-year-old had not been found innocent. But FIFA said Bin Hammam has resigned with immediate effect from

Bin Hammam would never be active in football again.

all his roles in a letter dated December 15 and that his life ban was based on a report by Michael Garcia, chair of their Ethics Committee. A statement on FIFA’s website read: “Mohamed Bin Hammam, FIFA Executive Committee member and AFC President, has resigned from all his positions in football with immediate effect and will never be active in organised football again.

“In view of the fact that under the new FIFA Code of Ethics, the FIFA Ethics Committee remains competent to render a decision even if a person resigns, the Adjudicatory Chamber decided to ban Mohamed Bin Hammam from all footballrelated activity for life. “This life ban is based on the final report of Michael J. Garcia, Chairman of the Investigatory Chamber of the FIFA Ethics Committee. “That report showed repeated violations of Article 19 (Conflict of Interest) of the FIFA Code of Ethics, edition 2012, of Mohamed Bin Hammam during his terms as AFC President and as member of the FIFA Executive Committee in the years 2008 to 2011, which justified a life-long ban from all football related activity.” Bin Hammam emerged as the only challenger to Blatter in FIFA’s presidential elections back in June 2011 but withdrew 24 hours before the ballot after being provisionally suspended by the organization.

Cuba win their first Caribbean Cup Cuba celebrated their first Caribbean Cup title with a 1-0 victory over Trinidad and Tobago in St. John’s, Antigua on Sunday. A long range Marcel Hernandez goal in the 22nd minute of extra time gave the Cubans a 1-0 victory over the eight-time Caribbean champions. In a largely cagey encounter, Carlyle Mitchell went close for Trinidad and Tobago in just the sixth minute, hitting the post with a header from a corner. Cuba could have taken the lead in the 61st minute but Jaine Colome Valencia blasted a penalty over the crossbar. But the extra-time winner gave

Cuba celebrate their first Caribbean Cup title.

Cuba revenge for their 2-1 loss to the Soca Warriors in the 1999 final. As well as crowning the champion of the Caribbean, the tournament also served as a qualifying for the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2013

which also features teams from Central and North America. Beaten semi-finalist Haiti and Martinique also qualified for the tournament to be held in the United States in July.

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

Bolt wins BBC Overseas Sports Personality of the Year Sprinter Usain Bolt has been named the BBC Overseas Sports Personality of the Year after winning triple Olympic gold for the second successive Games. The 26-year-old Jamaican starred at the London 2012 Games as he claimed 100m, 200m and 4x100m titles.

Bolt became the only man to have retained both individual sprint golds and helped his team become the first to run under 37 seconds in the relay. His sixth Games gold made him the most decorated Olympic sprinter of all-time. It is the third time in the

past five years he has been given the BBC honour. “It was a great Olympics, a great year and I worked really hard,” he said. Bolt triumphed despite hamstring and back problems that had placed his participation in doubt.

After winning the 200m title, he said: “I’m a living legend. I was fast, but I was not fit enough.” Following the relay victory on the final day of action in the Olympic Stadium, he traded celebrations with Britain’s 5,000m and 10,000m gold medallist Mo Farah.

Usain Bolt starred in this year’s Olympics.

December 20 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

MerryChristmas to all our readers

Weekly News C h r i s t m a s

e d i t i o n

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; January 11, 2013

OPENING HOURS Mon 24 December (Christmas Eve) Tues 25 December (Christmas) Wed 26 December Thur 27 December Fri 28 December Sat 29 December Sun 30 December Mon 31 December Tues 1 January (New Year)

8am - 3pm Emergency Only Emergency Only Regular Hours Regular Hours 8am - 1pm Emergency Only Regular Hours Emergency Only

December 20 – January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

Classifieds

December 20 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; January 11, 2013

Services Auto sales real estate

contact: 946-4664

HEALTHY TREATS

Meditation Centre Turks and Caicos Islands

Gardener 7558

contact: 244-3183

to keep the hotel grounds clean. Must be able to work weekends and holidays. Salary $5.00 per hour. Only Belonger need apply Contact: Sandra MacLeod at 946-4203

FOR SALE

7560

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

per week. Salary $200 per week.

www.bkwsu.com Email: bkwsu@tciway.tc

Is looking for a

Cook To work 6 days

Hairdresser To work 6 days

Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101

The Turtle Cove Inn Hotel

RESTAURANT & DELI Is looking for a

Website: tcweeklynews.com

is looking for a

Raja Yoga 3-bedroom apartment $1100.00 per month it will be available May 1st.

Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

MISSICK SKIN CARE & BEAUTY AID

Brama Kumaris

FOR RENT

946-4664

Contact: 242-9472

7553

Job Listings

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

LESLIE BLACKBURN

DESTINATION GUIDE AGENCY

Is looking for a

Is in need of a

Domestic

Worker Labourer To work 5 days To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour must be able to do household chores.

contact: 332-1444

7556

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 241-9730

7559

Sales Agent

For selling advertising. Commission only basis Please email resumes to:

Earlene Roberts Smith at earleneguide2turksandcaicos@ live.com 7547

Construction scaffold and roof tiles for sale CONTACT: 431-1591 OR 231-3788

46 CLASSIFIEDS

TIKI HUT

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Is looking for a

Cook

To work 6 days per week. Salary $7 per hour.

Contact: 941-5341

December 20 – January 11, 2013

Amazing Value! Lot for Sale

In Gated/Planned Community in Long Bay. Flamingo Crossing lot comes with full set of House Plans, all underground utilities, etc.

$49,999 o.b.o. Call 231-3788

PRICE SLASHED $175,000

PRICE SLASHED FOR QUICK SALE $180,000 CASH!

House and ½ Acre land Richmond Hill 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Fully furnished

Call: 231-3788

December 20 – January 11, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS 47

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION

TIKI HUT

Is looking for a

Cook

To work 6 days per week. Salary $7 per hour.

Experienced Insurance Analyst

Contact: 941-5341

The Financial Services Commission, a statutory body of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government responsible for the licensing and regulation of financial services businesses, is seeking an Experienced Insurance Analyst:

7519

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES The Analyst is responsible for assisting with the planning and conducting of off-site and on-site reviews of insurance entities, including reviewing the financial and operational systems of insurance businesses, to determine the entities’ financial status and level of compliance with their own internal policies and standards and relevant local and international standards, ordinances and regulations

JOB VACANCY

Specific duties include: • • • • • • •

Assist in developing annual plans for onsite inspections/reviews of insurance entities Perform off-site and onsite reviews of insurance organizations Carry out rigorous analysis of financial statements, business plans etc. Monitor and report on trends in the financial performance of insurance entities Assist in evaluating and processing applications for insurance licenses Collect, collate and analyze statistical information relating to the insurance industry and licensees Investigate, as directed, complaints by the public or queries in respect of the policies, practices and procedures of insurance entities • Develop and recommend and, upon approval, implement standards and procedures for the administration of the Insurance Dept. • Any other duties as set out in the Job Descriptions for Insurance Officer/Analyst or as assigned by the Head of Insurance.

Graceway IGA Supermarket is seeking a suitably qualified applicant to fill the following position:

Wholesale Food Service Driver Main Duties and Responsibilities:

@@ Drives vehicles for the purpose of transporting foods, condiments and supplies to designated sites @@ Shall assist with loading of goods and supplies in accordance to purchase orders and or invoices @@ Shall assist with unloading of goods and supplies at delivery locations @@ Shall obtain customer signature for goods delivered @@ shall follow all road safety regulations and precautions @@ Shall keep truck clean inside and out @@ Performs other related work as required @@ Job Requirements and Qualifications:

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE • Preferred qualification is a Degree in Accounting, Economics, Business Administration or equivalent professional qualification such as ACII or equivalent. • Four (4) to Six (6) years related working experience in the insurance industry or insurance regulation. Management experience would be an asset.

SPECIFIC KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED: • Sound knowledge of financial and statistical analyses; • Sound knowledge of the operations of insurance entities and the insurance industry; • Good knowledge of local and international insurance regulations and standards, and generally of insurance law.

• • • • • • •

COMPENSATION RANGE Depending on the level of professional qualification, experience level and number of years in the industry, the salary range offered is $35,701 to $42,651 per annum.

OTHER INFORMATION APPLICABLE TO THE POSTS The duties for the posts may be carried out at either of the Commission’s offices in Grand Turk or Providenciales.

Applications should be received no later than December 31, 2012 and may be emailed to dmorrison@tcifsc.tc or dstrose@tcifsc.tc or faxed to 1-649-941-8379.

Must have a clean driving B class license 2 + years experience in driving, dump trucks, trailer trucks or similar vehicles Must speak, read and write fluent English Must be customer service oriented Must be able to lift product boxes and equipment up to 75 1bs + Must be able to bend, stoop and reach Must be able to drive and or stand for extended periods of time

Salary Range: $9.00ph - $9.50 ph – Belongers only need apply Deadline for submission of applications is December 28th 2012

7567

Submit resumes to: Graceway IGA Supermarket main office complex or email: hr@gracewayiga.com

7567

VACANCY

Meridian Trust has the following job opportunity:

Business Development Officer

Duties: • Provide assistance in preparing financial plans/statements for MTCL and/ or MMFL clients. • Develop insurance tax planning business for high net worth clients. • Liaison with clients to assist in the management of their companies and or trusts. • Develop new business through contacts in the local and international community • Plan, build and grow new business lines organically Skills/Qualifications Required: • Master’s degree in Commerce/Accounting/Finance/Business • 3-5 years professional experience with a Big Four accounting firm/ consulting firm/private equity/investment bank • Previous business development experience working with high net worth individuals in an international environment • Strong technical knowledge of the revenue generation process • Previous experience working in the leisure/tourism/sport industry • Possess very strong communication skills • Excellent PC skills Please send covering letter and resume by December 30th, 2012 to: Human Resource Manager Attn: Barbara Virgil Meridian House, Caribbean Place Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands

7555

48 CLASSIFIEDS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

STABLE HAND WANTED

MARINA VIEW BEAUTY SALON Is looking for a

Full-Time salary $7.50 per hour

Applicant must have a minimum of 10 years experience in all aspects of stable maintenance this includes: • Riding and horse handling (grooming, tacking up, cleaning tack, cleaning stalls, and lunging) • Equine nutrition • Teaching adults and children (mainly tourist) basic riding skills • Trimming hooves and basic equine veterinary care including IV/IM shots • Experience in breaking and training young horses

• Must be able to guide and supervise inexperienced riders on trail rides • Must have a valid driver’s license • Must have own transportation and telephone • Must weigh less than 160 pounds • Must speak English fluently, second language an asset • Applicant must have own knowledge in basic accounting, QuickBooks, Excel • Further computer experience is an asset will work weekends and holidays

Contact: 946-5252

THOMPSON COVE (1) 3 BEDROOM 3 ½ BATHROOM WITH POOL $3,800.00 PER MONTH

Cosmetologist to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

7563

FOR RENT

contact: 243-1018

7552

(1) 2 BEDROOM 2 BATHROOM WITH POOL $1,800.00 PER MONTH

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: 341-1471

7561

CBQ

is looking for a

Labourer

To pick up and clean, stock blocks on crates salary $5.00 per hour must be willing to work from 7am-5pm send resume to Labor Department or stop by Dock Direct

PUBLIC NOTICE

BELONGER STATUS APPLICATION

Take Notice that I, RIC TODD, Governor of Turks and Caicos in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 3(2) of the Immigration Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to POOSHA CAMELITA MCBEANVALDEZ a national of Guyana by virtue of marriage to a Belonger. RIC TODD

Take Notice that I, RIC TODD, Governor of Turks and Caicos in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 3(2) of the Immigration Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to ANTONISE JN BAPTISTE-FORBES a national of Haiti by virtue of marriage to a Belonger.

PUBLIC NOTICE

BELONGER STATUS APPLICATION

Take Notice that I, RIC TODD, Governor of Turks and Caicos in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 3(2) of the Immigration Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to VERGINA PAISLEY-DEAN a national of Jamaica by virtue of marriage to a Belonger. RIC TODD

Take Notice that I, RIC TODD, Governor of Turks and Caicos in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 3(2) of the Immigration Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to EUNIS AGUSTAS GRANT a national of St. Vincent by virtue of marriage to a Belonger. RIC TODD

PUBLIC NOTICE

BELONGER STATUS APPLICATION

Take Notice that I, RIC TODD, Governor of Turks and Caicos in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 3(2) of the Immigration Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to VONNE MARIA BETHEL-HAMILTON a national of USA by virtue of marriage to a Belonger. RIC TODD

Take Notice that I, RIC TODD, Governor of Turks and Caicos in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 3(2) of the Immigration Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to RAQUEL DE LOS SANTOS ROSARIO-FRANCIS a national of Dominican Republic by virtue of marriage to a Belonger. RIC TODD

(Section 3 (5) of the Immigration Ordinance)

RIC TODD

(Section 3 (5) of the Immigration Ordinance)

CLASSIFIEDS 49

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Cashier

Applicants must – • have at least one year’s experience as a Cashier • be willing to work on weekends/holidays and shift duties when required • have basic knowledge of computers • have excellent communication skills • have good typing skills • have good interface with clients • produce a clean Police Record BELONGERS ONLY NEED APPLY Please send applications to:

Stanfield Greene Graceway House Building A, Suite 201 Leeward Highway Providenciales

MAID/ HELPER

GILLEY’S ENTERPRISES LTD. Is looking for the following

Labourer To work 5 ½ days per week salary $6.00 per hour

To work 6days a week including weekends and holidays.Salary is $200 per week.

Interested person contact Josephine at 946-5300

Dishwasher To work 5 ½ day per week salary $5.50 per hour

Fax applications to 946-4871 between the hours of 9:00am-4:00pm

PUBLIC NOTICE

BELONGER STATUS APPLICATION

Take Notice that I, RIC TODD, Governor of Turks and Caicos in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 3(2) of the Immigration Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to REBECCA LYNN CAIN-VIRGIL a national of Canada by virtue of marriage to a Belonger. RIC TODD

Take Notice that I, RIC TODD, Governor of Turks and Caicos in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 3(2) of the Immigration Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to MARIE LEONNE NEREUS-FORBES a national of Haiti by virtue of marriage to a Belonger. RIC TODD

PUBLIC NOTICE

BELONGER STATUS APPLICATION

Take Notice that I, RIC TODD, Governor of Turks and Caicos in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 3(2) of the Immigration Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to AVIS DONETTE DOUGLAS-LOGAN a national of Jamaica by virtue of marriage to a Belonger. RIC TODD

Take Notice that I, RIC TODD, Governor of Turks and Caicos in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 3(2) of the Immigration Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to DAMAIN ANTHONY TAP a national of Jamaica by virtue of marriage to a Belonger. RIC TODD

(Section 3 (5) of the Immigration Ordinance)

PUBLIC NOTICE BELONGER STATUS APPLICATION (Section 3 (5) of the Immigration Ordinance)

Take Notice that I, RIC TODD, Governor of Turks and Caicos in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 3(2) of the Immigration Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to GEORGES-MACK LUNEAS a national of Haiti by virtue of marriage to a Belonger. RIC TODD

7568

International Transfer Company Limited (C.A.M.) In the Turks and Caicos Islands) seeks to employ a

7566

December 20 – January 11, 2013

(Section 3 (5) of the Immigration Ordinance)

POSITION AVAILABLE

We are currently redeveloping a boutique hotel in the Turks & Caicos Islands, with new F&B operations planned for mid 2013. To make it happen, we’re looking for candidates for the position of

GENERAL MANAGER The applicant must possess the following: ;; Preferably 5 years experience as an international Hotel General Manager ;; Experience managing hotels, resorts or marina operations for different target groups ;; Extensive F&B operations ;; Extensive business development experience ;; Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management or equivalent required MBA degree desired ;; Fluency in four languages Belongers need only apply.

Please Submit Detailed Application to: P.O. Box 270 Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

7554

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Entertainment

December 20 – January 11, 2013

Rihanna ranks third on Forbes’ highest-earning women in music list FORBES recently issued its annual ranking of the highestearning women in music, and placing third, with a whopping US$53 million, Barbados’ pop princess Rihanna can easily afford to add a king’s ransom of jewels to her crown. Ranking behind Britney Spears and Taylor Swift, in first and second position respectively, the Unapologetic girl edged last year’s winner Lady Gaga into fourth spot and shot ahead of Katy Perry who holds the record as the only musician besides Michael Jackson to have five No. 1 singles from the same album. Rihanna’s millions were generated by a hectic touring schedule and an impressive string of hits including We Found Love and Diamonds, as well as endorsements with Vita Coco and Nivea, and sales of her popular fragrance Reb’l Fleur. The 24-year-old recording star has come a long way since last year when she was ranked

Rihanna is ranked only behind Britney Spears and Taylor Swift. 25th on the world’s highest paid musicians list with $29 million. Britney Spears headed the list with $58 million from May 2011 through May 2012 outranking all others. She nevertheless earned about 30 percent less than the $90 million that Lady Gaga hauled in the previous

year to top the magazine’s 2011 roster. Spears generated most of her $58 million from her “Femme Fatale” concert tour and album, along with additional revenue from her Elizabeth Arden fragrance line and other product endorsements.

She barely overtook Taylor Swift, at No. 2 with $57 million, which doesn’t include her blockbuster “Red” album released in October. Swift was still on her “Speak Now” tour during the ranking period and also benefited from deals with Cover Girl and Sony, according to Forbes. Rihanna’s $53 million was closely followed by Lady Gaga at $52 million and Katy Perry at $45 million. Rounding out Forbes’ top 10 are Beyonce ($40 million), Adele ($35 million), Sade ($33 million), Madonna ($30 million) and Shakira ($20 million). Forbes bases its calculations on figures from Pollstar, the concert industry-tracking publication, the Recording Industry Association of America, and interviews with managers, lawyers and concert promoters. Gross income figures come from record and concert ticket sales, merchandise sales, product endorsements and other business ventures. (Caribbean 360)

Adele has had an outstanding year

Adele named Billboard top artist of 2012 ADELE has been named Billboard’s top artist of 2012, while her hit record 21 was named top album of the year in the music magazine’s annual review. The 24-year-old is the first to receive both accolades two years in a row. Londoner Adele was also named top female artist, with hip hop star Drake named top male artist. Former X Factor contestants One Direction rounded off a successful year of US invasion after being named top new artist

and Maroon 5 were top group. The honours for Adele come in a year which saw her win six Grammy awards and dominate the US charts. Her second album 21 went straight to number one when it was released in March 2011 and did not leave the top 10 until the beginning of September this year. During that time, it spent 24 weeks at the top spot. The year’s top three songs were Gotye’s Somebody That I Used to Know, Carly Rae Jepsen’s Call Me Maybe and Fun’s We Are Young. respectively.

TV episodes dropped after US shootings EPISODES of US comedy series Family Guy and American Dad were dropped on Sunday in the wake of Friday’s shootings in a Connecticut school, which left 26 dead. Fox TV instead showed repeats of the shows to avoid broadcasting any potentially sensitive content. The billed Family Guy episode had featured a retelling of the nativity while in American Dad, a demon punished naughty children at Christmas. Meanwhile, director Quentin

Tarantino has defended violence in movies. Tarantino’s latest film, spaghetti western Django Unchained, features graphic violence, including buckets of blood exploding from characters as they are shot. He said at a press junket in New York for the film on Saturday that he was tired of defending his films each time the US is shocked by gun violence. “I just think you know there’s violence in the world, tragedies

FOR RENT

Family Guy was one of the shows that did not see a new episode aired last Sunday. happen, blame the playmakers,” he said, adding: “It’s a western. Give me a break.” Django Unchained is nominated for five Golden Globes at next year’s awards. The Oscar-nominated director, whose work includes Inglourious Basterds and the Palme d’Or winning Pulp Fiction, said blame for violence should fall on those guilty of the crimes. But lead actor, Jamie Foxx,

said he believes big-screen violence can influence people. Foxx said: “We cannot turn our back and say that violence in films or anything that we do doesn’t have a sort of influence. It does.” Foxx stars as the protagonist of Django Unchained, a slave living in the Deep South who sets out to rescue his wife from a brutal Mississippi plantation owner, played by Leonardo DiCaprio.

1 BEDROOM 1 BATH RICHMOND HILLS FULLY FURNISHED WASHER & DRYER $750.00 PER MONTH

3 BEDROOM 2 BATHROOM FULLY FURNISHED WASHER DRYER 1,200.00 PER MONTH SECURITY SYSTEM FOR SALE OR FOR RENT

1 BEDROOM 1 BATHROOM HOUSE CUSTOM DESIGN KITCHEN $800.00 PER MONTH

2 BEDROOM 1 BATH NEWLY RENOVATED $900.00 PER MONTH

CONTACT: 231-7388

Martin Freeman stars as Bilbo Baggins in “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.”

‘The Hobbit’ breaks December record with $84.8 million weekend AS expected, “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey,” crushed the competition at the box office in its debut weekend, setting a new December record in the process. The Middle-earth-set film grossed $84.8 million over its first three days, handily surpassing “I Am Legend’s” $77.2 million bow, which has held the record for best December debut since 2007. “The Hobbit” earned that $84.8

million from 4,045 theaters, giving it a powerful $20,958 per theater average. Included in that theater count were 326 IMAX locations, which accounted for $10.1 million of the weekend gross, as well as 461 locations that showed the film in the controversial 48 frames per second rate — those screenings, thankfully, had no surcharge. About 49 percent of “The Hobbit’s” weekend take came from 3-D showings.

Trey Songz gave a woman a black eye after throwing money in her face.

Trey Songz arrested for assaulting woman in strip club

HIP-hop artist Trey Songz tried to throw money at a problem at a Queens strip club — and got busted on an assault rap. The 28-year-old musician allegedly tossed a bundle of cash at Donna McIntosh-Inoe, 36, after she snapped a cell phone picture of him during a party at Club Perfection in Woodhaven about 4 a.m. on Aug. 22. “He chucked a wad of cash at me,” McIntosh-Inoe told the Daily News. “A wad of cash.” The Staten Island woman, who went to the club with her

husband to see the “I Gotta Make It” star, said the knot of bills struck her so hard that it left her with a black eye. “I didn’t even know I had a bruise on my face until after I left the club,” she said. “I had to walk around a whole week with a black eye.” Her husband said the couple paid $700 to sit with the musician — whose real name is Tremaine Neverson — in the VIP section of the club, where he held a release party for his fifth studio album “Studio V.”

Kelly Clarkson and Brandon Blackstock.

Kelly Clarkson is engaged

KELLY Clarkson shared some exciting news with her fans over the weekend. The 30-year-old singer posted on Twitter Saturday that her boyfriend of roughly one year, Brandon Blackstock, popped the question that day. According to People magazine, Clarkson and Blackstock, a Nashville-based talent manager, began dating in late 2011.

“I’M ENGAGED!!!!! I wanted y’all to know!! Happiest night of my life last night!” she posted Saturday. “I am so lucky and am with the greatest man ever.” For the curious, Clarkson also shared a photo of her engagement ring, which features a sizable yellow canary diamond in the center and smaller diamonds surrounding it.

December 20 – January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013

Brahma Kumaris Raja Yoga M editation

C entre

Meditation/ Raja Yoga with mind. Positive Thinking Conducted by Yoga Teacher

Wrightfully Fit will be opening a second location in Grace Bay at the Salt Mills Plaza! (Formerly the Athletic club)

P.O. Box 55, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands. Tel: (649) 332-4101, 946-4760 Email: bkpadma@bkwsutci.com

Join during our pre-sale Grand opening and become a diamond member with rates GUARANTEED to never increase. This also will give you benefit to use both locations (Turtle Cove and Grace Bay) with Aerobic classes included and use our crystal pool. That’s “Wright” TWO gyms for the price of one!!! This will sell for limited time only! Don’t miss out!

Registration start Dec. 10th 2012 at the gym in Turtle Cove Membership active Monday Feb. 5th 2013 Just in time for the New Year and the new you! Annual $900.00 (save $300.00) Six months $450.00 (save $150.00) This great deal is also available to current members. (excluded spinning and boot camp)

Great employment opportunities for qualify fitness instructor

For more info

Call 941-3311 Website: www.wrightfullyfit.com

Great Christmas

gift!

Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year from Wrightfully Fit

December 20 – January 11, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 20 – January 11, 2013