TCWN February 7 - 13, 2015

Weekly News Volume 29 | No. 06 | February 7 - 13, 2015

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Turks and Caicos

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TCI IN GOOD

position

With an operating surplus in excess of $60 million for just three quarters of the 2014/2015 financial year, it is no surprise that the economic performance of the Turks and Caicos Islands is causing international lenders to come knocking.

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The body of Rosita Butterfield was carried to the state funeral in a coffin draped with the Turks and Caicos Islands flag

Hundreds attend state funeral for Rosita Butterfield PAGE 

Government supports healthcare investigation PAGE  4

Skippings’ party named Progressive Democratic PAGE  6 Alliance

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Williams’s PAGE run breaks  45 Bolt’s 2008 meet record

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 7-13, 2015

February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 7-13, 2015

Government supports healthcare investigation A THOROUGH investigation into the provision of the country’s secondary healthcare is set to take place soon.

A private member’s motion that called for an in depth look at the costly public service was carried in the House of Assembly last week.

Among the issues that will be examined are the clinical and financial hospital audits, oversight committees, the healthcare contract, medical services, costs and general care.

Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson moved the private member’s motion at the House of Assembly meeting in Grand Turk on Tuesday, January 27.

The motion, which was seconded by member for Grand Turk South and Salt Cay Edwin Astwood, said that in 2006 the Turks and Caicos Islands Government embarked upon an ambitious process that it termed a ‘health services renewal programme’.

In 2008 after what it termed an open and rigorous bidding process, representatives of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government travelled to London to sign a project contract with InterHealth Canada in what was to be a public private partnership.

The contract was to design, build, equip, maintain and operate two new hospitals in Grand Turk and Providenciales.

It was held as fully confidential until the document was leaked and confirmed as true and correct.

“The people of these Islands have had serious reasons to be concerned

about the contract specifically the more public terms that of the exorbitant costs of the contract, the cost plus arrangement versus capitation, the required audits, the functioning and importance of critical oversight committees, the timing of the contract review, the limited medical services offered and consequent increase in referrals overseas as well as the general care at the facilities,” the motion read.

“The Government has not been forthcoming with information or taken any action to address the concerns of the people and the high costs of the operation of this contract.

“This honourable House recommends to the Governor that a thorough investigation be carried out into the pre-operating costs including but not limited to the construction costs and the operation of this contract.”

Cartwright Robinson told the House of Assembly that the motion was extremely important and in the best interests of the TCI. “The hospitals were a long time coming and there was an air of excitement and anticipation for the promised state of the art facilities.

“Not long after, the people of these Islands recognised that there were problems,” she said.

She spoke of the secrecy of the contract between InterHealth Canada and the Government which caused “even greater suspicion” and quoted the former Chief Financial Officer who called the healthcare contract an “albatross

Published by Turks & Caicos News Company Ltd. Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales P.O. Box 52, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI W. Blythe Duncanson - Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Rebecca Bird - News Editor Delana Isles - Senior Reporter Daisy Handfield - Staff Reporter Faizool Deo - Sports Editor (At Large) Cord Garrido-Lowe - Graphics Consultant (At Large) Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams - Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com Follow us on: Facebook: facebook.com/tcweeklynews Twitter: twitter.com/tcweeklynews1

Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson wants an examination of hospital “horror stories”

around our necks”.

The Opposition leader spoke of the “increasing, unchecked” costs of undocumented people gaining access to healthcare and added that the financial and clinical audits have yet to be confirmed as completed.

“We are particularly concerned about the horror stories that we have been hearing of care at the facility.”

She said that she has asked Turks and Caicos Islanders to record both good and bad experiences so that they can be directly involved in the future of the country’s healthcare.

Among the worries are lack of attention, people being turned away, wrong diagnosis, wrong medications and procedures, and wrong cause of death, she told the House.

A high turnover of doctors is another concern along with the huge costs for clinical services.

SUPPORT FOR MOTION Third all island elected member Derek Taylor spoke next to express his concerns about the number of interns used for healthcare in the TCI. “I don’t want it to appear that our people are being used as guinea pigs,” he said.

Governor’s appointed member John Phillips then spoke on behalf of the business community - employers and employees.

“We’ve been underwhelmed so far by the success of the InterHealth Canada project. We are very concerned.”

He told the assembly about his personal experiences with sickly employees and said that an operation “of this scale” should have audit information.

Phillips said it is correct for the House to call for InterHealth Canada to provide all of the audited statements which is important to the Government consolidated fund

and the national health insurance programme.

“If it is to function it has to be something that is seen as beneficial by the business community and by the workforce of this country.”

He added that it must be clear that the assembly wishes to bring InterHealth into line and disclose “honestly, openly and in a transparent manner” that they are doing their best to provide a service.

Opposition appointed member Clarence Selver said he also supported the motion adding that the country has been “short changed” by the healthcare provider.

He said that the country has been left with a huge financial burden from a contract that has been kept under a “cloud of secrecy”.

Selver added that processes to reduce costs are taking far too long to implement.

Member for Grand Turk South and Salt Cay Edwin Astwood agreed that the bill is very timely.

“It’s shameful to see that a lot of people are dying over simple things that could have been prevented.

“Families are losing loved ones.

Something has to be done,” he told the assembly.

Governor’s appointed member Lillian Misick said that she believes there is sufficient concern by the general public about healthcare that warrants an investigation.

“I think it is only right that persons be afforded the kind of information that would allow them to make informed decisions and allow them to express their concerns when those are warranted.”

She spoke of concerns over an increase in deaths in the TCI, the quality of care and secret settlements.

“I think a proper heath investigation needs to take place and I think the time has come where

a patients’ bill of rights ought to be placed on the agenda of this house to protect the wellbeing and health of the people in this country.”

Premier Rufus Ewing, Minister of Health and Human Services, told the House that the delivery of healthcare is a very complex, emotional subject.

“It’s incumbent upon us to ensure that the level of healthcare delivery in these Turks and Caicos Islands can stand toe to toe or rise above what is delivered anywhere globally.”

He said that it is difficult to say the country is paying too much for healthcare, it is more a matter of affordability.

Ewing added that it is important that the quality of care is good and people are getting value for money from the secondary care facilities.

He stressed that the cost of overseas care has reduced and that the Government has seen a preliminary financial audit.

However he is not satisfied that the people are getting value for money as he continues to hear of TC Islanders who have been turned away, met with complications or died as a result of negligence.

He urged the public to report any incidents they are not happy with to enable the provider to make improvements.

There is room to decrease the expenditure of the hospitals, he added, where it would not compromise care.

And capitation should not be rushed to put in place as more reductions could be made in the future.

The premier also revealed that the Government is committed to bringing healthcare regulations before the House to oversee delivery in the TCI. During a subsequent vote all members supported the motion.

Tourist dies from apparent drowning THE BODY of a man was discovered lifeless in the ocean in front of Grace Bay, Providenciales, on Monday (February 2).

The 67-year-old tourist from the United States is thought to have drowned while out for a swim.

Audley Astwood, press officer for the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, said: “Tourists nearby discovered the

body and tried to resuscitate the man but were unable to do so.”

A press release from InterHealth Canada said: “On Monday at around 1.17 pm, a 67-year-old male tourist was transported to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre via ambulance by the Emergency Medical Services after an apparent drowning.

“He was pronounced dead on arrival.”

February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Strong growth in visitor arrivals recorded for the third quarter of 2014/2015 financial year.

Pictured are self-check-in kiosks at the newly renovated Providenciales International Airport

NEWS

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Minister of Finance, Washington Misick updates the media on the Government’s financial position

Lenders rush to refinance TCI loan – Finance Minister

BY DELANA ISLES

WITH an operating surplus in excess of $60 million for just three quarters of the 2014/2015 financial year, it is no surprise that the economic performance of the Turks and Caicos Islands is causing international lenders to come knocking.

This was according to the Minister of Finance, Washington Misick during a press conference at the immigration and arrivals section of the Providenciales International Airport this past Wednesday (February 4).

He was at the time updating the press on the third quarter financial report of the TCI Government.

“We are now in a situation where based on all the hard work this Government has done, lenders are knocking themselves over, jockeying for position, putting themselves in line to refinance whatever debt that is left in 2016.

“I think that is a very enviable position to be in when you look at what is happening over the world.”

The year to date shows an operating surplus of $60.6 million for the first three quarters of the financial year, compared to the $39.4 million for the same period last year.

This figure is about $21.2 million above the budgeted figure for this period, the minister stated.

He reiterated earlier statements that the economy is rebounding very well, adding that the Government is making a serious inroad into reducing the debt and sending a positive signal to the financing community and the capital markets.

The sinking fund balance currently stands at $60 million, indicating that net public debt outstanding at the end of December 2014 is $132.6 million.

“We have banks and other institutions that are pushing at the door to get inside in order to fund the Government debt in 2016,” the minister said.

He noted that the debt target for 2016 is probably going to be significantly less than what was projected two years ago.

“Until we have a better grasp of

what that is going to be, we are not even able to decide what kind of an approach we are going to take. But I think we would have a lot of options by now and 2016,” Misick stated.

For the third quarter (October to December) the operating surplus was $16.7 million.

This surplus was well ahead ($11.5 million) of the budgeted $5.2 million and is accounted for largely by the strong growth in visitor arrivals to the Islands.

Recurrent revenue for the quarter was $55.9 million, some 15 percent above budget, and 23 percent above the $45.4 million revenue received in the same period in 2013/2014.

Year to date recurrent revenue is $178.3 million, which is $25.5 million or 17 percent above the budgeted collections of $152.8 million.

This figure also represents 28 percent or $39.2 million above the results for the same quarter last year.

Recurrent expenditure came in at $37.5 million, which is nine percent or $3.8 million below budget and

lower than the $39.2 million spent at the same time last year.

Non-recurrent expenditure is recorded at $2.1 million. This figure represents a 31 percent or $900,000 above the budget, while being above last year’s out turn by 14 percent.

The year to date recurrent expenditure is $114.3 million, which resulted in a favourable variance of $12.4 million or 10 percent when compared with the budgeted output of $126 million.

Revenue streams There were six major areas of revenue collection for the quarter, of which import duties recorded the highest figure at $16.8 million.

Customs processing fee recorded $7.5million; $7 million from the new hotel and restaurant tax; $6.8 million from stamp duty on land transactions; and $4.7 million from work permits and residency fees.

These figures together accounted for 33 percent of revenue.

The major areas of Government expenditure were personnel costs

at 42 percent of total expenditure, while transfers to NHIB and hospital provisional charges together accounted for a further 24 percent of total expenditure.

Government’s outstanding debt as of December 31, 2014 is $192.6 million, when the sinking fund is not taken into account.

During the year the $9 million term loan facility with Scotia bank, which was due for repayment in February 2016, was repaid in full, resulting in total debt repayments for the year to date of $14.9 million.

“It is satisfying that our revenue performance has exceeded expectations while the costs of Government are below budget,” Misick stated.

He added that special recognition must go to the hard work of people in the Ministry of Finance and across the public sector, in implementing enhanced compliance measures and continued reinforcement of the Public Finance Management and the Public Procurement Ordinances.

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February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

More cash for leadership

MINISTER of Finance Washington Misick is to receive tens of thousands of dollars in back pay after serving for four years as Chief Minister of the TCI. A new piece of legislation has been approved that will allow him to boost his retiring allowance to meet that of other former leaders.

He will receive the equivalent of $56,741 per year for the period from January 2005 to November 2012 – a total of more than $400,000 from public funds.

What are your thoughts?

He deserves it

When Washy was Chief Minister, he didn’t have a car most of the time, but he still made things happen here.

Grace Bay Club for one, the beginning of our fabulous luxury destination reputation.

With no hint of corruption. Oh sorry, I once heard he accepted a leather case as a gift (empty).

Think of how much of the people’s money Mike Misick spent on his homes, pool, parties here and in the USA, and the shady deals he cut, which are now costing us millions and millions and millions.

Give Washy his money. He deserves it for what he did back then. And take Mike and the boys to court, please.

Money man

Of course he will ensure that he gets paid!

I wonder if he recused himself from deliberations on the said piece of legislation.

What he’s owed

I would say that given the amount of progress

set up to be made and eventually made because of Chief Minister Washington Misick the least that could be done is to pay him what is owed by others who might not have done as much.

Imagine working for no salary for seven years?

Highly suspect

Any action to retroactively compensate any entity or individual in the absence of a clear and existing contractual obligation to do so is highly suspect.

An action of this nature could only find its authority in the contractual arrangements which existed at the time of Mr Misick’s service.

Such an action does not demonstrate prudent financial management nor does it demonstrate ethical behaviour in governance.

To the extent that the good governance principles exist it is inconceivable that this action could pass the smell test of any such principle.

In the absence of a contractual obligation, which existed at the time of service and clearly this level of contractual obligation did not exist at the time of service, otherwise there would not be a need for special legislation, then this

action under further examination should be nullified and the Governor should not endorse its adoption.

Legislation which ensures the benefit of any single person or entity should have no place in a well governed society.

him a decent pension?

Where is the compassion from our elected and public official? Can we not all spread the wealth?

Entitled to it

The question should be asked, why was Washington not being paid the same as the other Chief Ministers all this time?

The reality is he is entitled to it. He served as Chief Minister of this country and should have been paid accordingly as every other Chief Minister has been.

Forget the petty politics or the individual and let’s be real, if you were entitled to it you’d expect to be treated fairly and receive it.

Due to him

If it is owed to the man, pay him! Present and future leaders will benefit from this as well.

Washy, although you may not agree with his politics, spent his time and effort in the service of our country and deserves whatever is due to him.

Wake up

This is ridiculous! It’s another rip off! Seems as though only in the TCI can one have money blunders or questionable acts and still be made Minister of Finance. What an insult to us.

Pension and gratuity for people who are working (much harder than many politicians) are unsatisfactory at present.

If they are servants of the people they should address what’s happening to the people first before passing laws that will benefit themselves first.

This administration - ‘no better beef, no better barrel’.

We see who will be benefiting from the surplus. Only some decisions that benefit the powers that be are retroactive.

This society sure needs a spectacle. Wake up people of the TCI!

Spread the wealth

Damn! What can one say?

At least he is looking out for himself and retirement, but who is looking out for the common man who daily struggles to feed his family and who may have voted for this same person to occupy this office which now affords

Question it Ridiculous

More fat cat mentality. Washy our esteemed Financial Minister and CEO of the failed bank and failed resort went year after year without noticing his retirement was short huge amounts.

Is he qualified to run the country’s finances?

We have poor folks living on $200 or $300 per month while he needs another ½ million of the people’s money.

Remember Washy and the PNP National Chairman took a machete to $25 million of the National Insurance Board funds to finance his mismanagement of the banks funds.

The ridiculous retirement paid to failed Chief Ministers, Norman, Skippings and now Washy who failed at everything they touched.

It might be interesting to count the number of votes these failures received in their tiny election districts then lead the county into embarrassments.

Reality of poverty

This is the PNP watchword - greed!

We are waiting for the first PNP Chief Minister to work for less to save our country some of the huge salaries.

Washy is so out of touch with the reality of the poverty his party has brought to his people.

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Skippings names his party the Progressive Democratic Alliance VOTERS in next year’s general elections could put their X in the box next to candidates for the Progressive Democratic Alliance (PDA), the just announced name of Oswald Skippings’ new political party.

Skippings made the announcement during a local radio programme this past week and confirmed to the Weekly News on Wednesday, February 4.

He said he is still in the formulation process of the party but that the public will be kept up to date on all new developments.

As for the response so far to his new party, the former Chief Minister said, during the radio show on 88.1fm, that it has been “comparatively great”.

“I found that there are many people who are silent and saying that they are not going to vote anymore because they are fed up with both sides.

“So they look at this [new party] as a breath of fresh air and a fresh opportunity.”

He added that his record speaks for itself; as such the voters know

who they are dealing with.

Acknowledging that forming a new party is “no fun”; Skippings noted that his first choice is to see a purging of the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM), his former party.

Last year, the former PDM leader made his feelings clear on the PDM, stating that it needs an overhaul and that members need to focus more on the people who voted for them and not only on party.

He said that the ability of the PDA to win votes is good as they will be focusing

on a number of fundamental issues.

“It has to do with the ideology of the party, the vision and I think people need to look carefully at what the other parties stand for and what they don’t stand for, and who are the persons in line standing out,” he added.

He further stated that the PDA will be structured so that it will be democratically run, and members will ensure that they adhere to the principles, practises and policies of the party. (DELANA ISLES)

Oswald Skippings of the Progressive Democratic Alliance”

February 7-13, 2015

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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Bahamian police officer dies on his way to Butterfield convoy

Finance Minister to receive retirement back pay

A POLICE officer sadly died in the Bahamas this week when he crashed his motorbike as he was on his way to assist with the transfer of the body of Rostia Butterfield to the TCI. Officer Latorio Demeritte of the Royal Bahamas Police Force met his untimely death in Nassau on Monday morning (February 2).

The news of the accident was delivered to members of the Cabinet during their third meeting in Grand Turk just hours later.

Premier Rufus W Ewing paused to offer his condolences to the friends and family of the officer.

“The death of Officer Demeritte is extremely unfortunate and I am terribly saddened by this news,” he said.

“Death is never an easy thing to bear, and death of a colleague or loved one from most illnesses, often gives us time to reconcile or say our goodbyes.

“But tragedy comes so swiftly and unexpectedly, leaving us shocked, heartbroken and with many unanswered questions.

“Our thoughts are with the Government, the Commissioner and members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force and the family and friends of Officer Demeritte, and I want them to know that they are not alone in mourning his passing.

“We are eternally grateful for the selflessness of Officer Demeritte, the Bahamas government and police force for their profound generosity, and while we lay to rest our Hon Dr Butterfield, we will forever remember and revere the life that was given in service to her and to our country.”

According to the Nassau Guardian 25-year-old Demeritte was killed

FORMER Chief Minister and current Minister of Finance, Washington Misick is to receive back pay owed to him following the 2004 increase to the retiring allowances for Chief Ministers, which he did not receive.

On Wednesday (January 28) the House of Assembly passed the Retiring Allowance (Legislative Service) (Special Provisions) Ordinance 2015.

The purpose of the bill is to ensure that every Chief Minister who retired from office before 2003 or prior to the enactment of the retiring allowance (legislative service) (amendment) ordinance of 2004, and who did not benefit from the increase provided under the amendment, will receive the back pay due.

Attorney General Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, who presented the bill to the House, explained the need for the 2015 legislation and the money to be paid to Misick.

She said that the difference to be paid to Misick is for the period January 2005 to November 2012.

“That calculation would be a formula of two thirds of $39,888 for seven years and nine months and two thirds of $125,000 for seven years and nine months.

“Taken a different way it is $56,741 per year for seven years and nine months,” the AG said.

She further explained that Misick has never received a pension as a former Chief Minister, that he only even received a pension as a member

Officer Latorio Demeritte of the Royal Bahamas Police Force died this week

when his motorcycle crashed into a utility pole on John F Kennedy Drive on Monday morning.

He was on his way to Odyssey Aviation where the body of Rostia Butterfield was being handed over to Turks and Caicos Island authorities for her flight home.

Demeritte had served with the Royal Bahamas Police Force for over seven years.

On the Royal Bahamas Police Force website a statement read: “It is with a deep sense of sadness and regret that the Commissioner of Police and the Royal Bahamas Police Force record the death of Constable #983 Latorio Demeritte, who died tragically while on duty on Monday, January 2, 2015.

“At the time of his passing, Constable Demeritte was attached to the Traffic Division of the Force.

“Condolences are extended to his relatives, friends and colleagues.”

Stray dog problem a matter of urgency for Government ON THURSDAY, January 29, the Ministry of Environment was directed to step up its campaign for the control of stray dogs as a matter of urgency.

This is according to a post Cabinet update from the Governor’s office on Friday, January 30.

Arrangements for the campaign will be announced shortly, the release read.

Also at that meeting, the continued positive financial performance of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government was acknowledged.

This is for the period October to December 2014, as submitted to Cabinet in the third quarter financial report by the accountant general.

Cabinet also noted the

recommendations of the procurement board on the award of the contract for the splitting of the Clement Howell High School and development of Long Bay High School.

Additionally, Governor Peter Beckingham was advised to approve the grant of a 99 year lease to TCI Toscana GP, Limited, over a portion of the accreted land lying seaward of parcel 60812/37 and 38 subject to survey and planning restrictions.

He was further advised to approve TCI Gazette subscription fees to one standard rate of $200 for email and hard copy subscriptions.

Electronic copies of the Gazette will be available to the general public free of charge on the TCIG website.

or former legislator of the House.

She noted that in 2004 the Legislative Council passed the Retiring Allowances Amendment Ordinance 2004 as well as the Retiring Allowances (Increase) Ordinance 2004, which provided for a more favourable computation of retiring allowances payable to retired legislators.

The Retiring Allowances (Increase) Ordinance 2004 increased the rate of retiring allowance paid to a retired legislator if he was awarded a retiring allowance prior to 1995, she added.

The amendment ordinance, which came into operation on January 3, 2005, provided that the retiring allowance payable to a member who has held the office of Chief Minister shall be two thirds of the rate of salary of the sitting Chief Minister (now Premier) on the date on which he becomes entitled to receive a retiring allowance.

She noted that the combined effect of the changes meant that a former Chief Minister who, from 1995 to 2005, became entitled to receive a retiring allowance was not eligible to have his retiring allowance calculated in accordance with the 2004 amendment ordinance.

Instead, the retiring allowance payable to such a legislator was calculated at the rate of two thirds of the highest annual rate of basic salary payable at any time to that person as a legislator.

The Retiring Allowances

Under the tree

Amendment Ordinance 2004 was not given retrospective effect and thus did not apply to a Chief Minister who was awarded a retirement allowance prior to its enactment.

She stated: “It has come to the attention that all Chief Ministers, except Washington Misick have benefited from the joint enactment of the aforementioned ordinances.”

A review of former Chief Ministers who have reached retirement age reveals that all former Chief Ministers who reached retirement age prior to Misick are captured under the increase ordinance 2004.

Additionally, all former Chief Ministers who have retired since Misick are captured under the Amendment Ordinance 2004.

The Attorney General added that Misick is the only former Chief Minister who did not benefit from an increase in retiring allowance.

She stated that it was not the intention of the Legislative Council that a former Chief Minister falling within the specified category should not benefit under the amendment ordinance 2004.

The matter was sent to the Integrity Commission for consultation, and they responded favourably to the request.

She stated that the commission confirmed that they looked at the matter broadly as an anomaly and disparity which the Government sought to correct, and to this end, the proposed amendments are legitimate and proper.

By Benneth Williams

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NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 7-13, 2015

New construction, jobs promised for 2015/2016

BY DELANA ISLES

DUE to the strong performance of the economy in the current financial year particularly, the PNP Government believes it is now in a position to make the trickle-down effect a reality.

Finance Minister Washington Misick this Wednesday (February 4) promised that job opportunities within the public sector and even in the private sector will see a major improvement in the upcoming financial year (2015/2016).

He told the media during a press conference at the Providenciales International Airport that while the economic growth has not trickled down to the extent that the Government would like it to have over the past two years, they are on their way to making this a reality over the next 12 months.

“As the public spending increases in the upcoming budget I think you will see that significant new jobs will be added to the economy in the public sector and construction areas,” the minister said.

This increase in public spending is due to the rollover of some $6 million from the capital budget of the current financial year 2013/2014 that will not be spent when the financial year comes to an end on March 31.

He said that the Government has made provisions so that this money

will not be lost.

“It will be added to the capital budget for 2015/2016 which will take our overall capital expenditure/ development fund budget to somewhere close to $20 million for the upcoming financial year.”

He noted that the reason the Government has had issues with drawing down on the capital budget in previous years is because of the planning cycle of the budget.

“That means that the budget is being delivered late, and then we have also had capacity issues within some of the ministries,” the minister added.

At the first press conference for the year, Premier Rufus Ewing had promised that the always late budget will be delivered in a timely fashion this year.

Last week, the United Kingdom ministers formally agreed to the annual Fiscal Strategy and Policy Statement (FSPS) which shapes the budget negotiations.

The FSPS outlines the key policy objectives for the Government for each financial year within the agreed framework of efficient economic planning, affordability and use of public money between the TCI and the UK. The detailed budget is currently being prepared and will be presented soon to the House of Assembly.

One of the significant achievements of this FSPS is the UK’s

Finance Minister Washington Misick this Wednesday (February 4) promised that job opportunities within the public sector and even in the private sector will see a major improvement in the upcoming financial year

agreement to allow the rollover of the $6 million from the development fund account in 2013/2014 into the 2015/2016 account if the budget is committed before the end of March 2015.

“One of the things we are looking at doing in the upcoming budget is to make provisions for a project management team or a section/group to operate within the ministry of what used to be GSS [renamed the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning] so that we could be able to draw down on our capital projects more rapidly,” the minister

stated.

He added that the Government is currently working to ensure that key departments are properly sourced, including both technical and financial resources in order to build up the capital projects.

The capital projects planned for this year include roads, the erection of and major refurbishment to several buildings, the minister said.

“These will obviously create public sector jobs.”

He added: “Generally speaking the economy of the Turks and Caicos, I would say with certainty

that the economy has rebounded, and from where I am standing I see a lot of new construction [coming].

“We may not have seen much as yet. Apart from the Shore Club, we haven’t seen any major resort construction taking place as yet, but Government is still working to ensure that one or two of these happen within the next 18 months.”

However, he noted that the level of private villas, private homes and other construction activities taking place is having a profound effect on the Government’s budget.

Wage boost for civil servants kicks in soon

BY DELANA ISLES PUBLIC servants can count on any changes to their income due to Government’s re-grading of salaries to be reflected in their pay packets from this April.

This assurance was given by Minister of Finance Washington Misick during a press conference at the arrivals terminal at the Providenciales International Airport on Wednesday (February 4).

“Public servants will see the change reflected in their salaries from April 1.

“The whole exercise is already done. So persons would already know where they are in the grading system,” Misick said.

He added that people like the immigration officers and customs officers at job entry level will be getting a far better income as a result

of the regarding.

“In terms of some new posts in the re-grading itself we are spending an extra $9 million on public service salaries.

“This is a total increase to public service remuneration,” the minister stated.

He added that the Government is at a stage now where they are able to focus on the people who work in the economy. “…The public sector (workers) who are responsible for collecting revenue and who are responsible for helping Government to function, they would finally be recognised by having their pay scales re-graded.”

He said the reason he chose the airport to host the press conference is to show recognition to the immigration and customs officers and all of the front line people who have had a lot to do with driving the economy.

Minister of Finance Washington Misick greets an immigration official at Providenciales International Airport following a press conference

“Tourism is the engine of growth, it’s the driver and those people who work in the airport, at the seaports, who are frontline people, it is very important that they are appreciated and this is just a small token by coming here,” the minister stated.

He added: “I realise the difficulties that they have actually had to endure over the last several years in order to help us to build a strong economy.

“And I think Government is going to start to recognise that in the regrading exercise.”

He stated that the reason the

exercise was not done before is because the Government did not have the money, until now.

“Now that the economy has rebounded and the Government has the money a decision was made to implement the re-grading exercise,” he added.

February 7-13, 2015

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9

‘Loved by everyone’ A “happy, conscientious and beloved” young man sadly died on Monday afternoon (January 19) in Providenciales after complaining of chest pains.

Shamiko ‘Miko’ Penn, 17, was found struggling to breathe in a bathroom at the TCI National Stadium and taken to hospital where he passed away.

Friends and family have expressed their sadness at his untimely death this week with condolences and tributes.

Clement Howell High School principal Kadean Cunningham sent a tribute to the Weekly News on behalf management, staff and students in which she described Shamiko as an “adorable student with a winsome personality”.

“He had the warmest smile. As he entered a room, his radiant smile brightened the room along with his jovial presence.

“He made friends very easily

with his caring nature and he always guided them, supported them and made them happy.

“He loved people and was loved by everyone. He enjoyed making everyone around him laugh.”

She said that Shamiko loved to cook and his goal was to become a sous chef as well as a comedian.

“Shamiko loved school; a conscientious student who was never late nor absent. He took his academic life seriously always aiming for the highest.”

He was actively involved in sports where he threw the shot put, discus and javelin and was also a rugby player.

“Clement Howell High has lost a beloved son, student, classmate, colleague and friend,” Cunningham said.

“Shamiko is gone but his memory and spirit is still alive in our hearts.

We hold on to his memory as we remember the words of the poem: ‘Don’t cry for me now that I have

Shamiko ‘Miko’ Penn, 17, was a much loved son, student, classmate, colleague and friend

died, for I’m still here I’m by your side. “‘My body’s gone but my soul’s here, please don’t shed another tear. I am still here I’m all around, only my body lies in the ground.’

“Shamiko you are gone but will not be forgotten.

“The management, staff and

students of Clement Howell High wish to express sincerest condolences to the family of Shamiko.”

The news of Shamiko’s sad death reached members of the Cabinet during their Monday session in Grand Turk.

Akierra Missick, Deputy Premier and Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Library Services, paused to offer her thoughts.

“Shamiko’s death is unfortunate and my thoughts and prayers are with Shamiko’s family, and the staff and students of the Clement Howell High School,” she said.

The ministry, through the guidance department of the school and in collaboration with the school’s chaplain, the Department for Social Development and the Mental Health Department, arranged for pastors and counsellors to be at the school to provide grief counselling for teachers and students this week.

A press release from the ministry said: “This is an emotionally difficult time for the staff and students of the school as they try to make sense of Shamiko’s death.

“Your thoughts and prayers will help them to get through this time of grief and sadness.”

A press release from Interhealth Canada on Tuesday read: “On Monday at approximately 2.15pm, an adolescent male age 17 years was transported to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre via ambulance by the Emergency Medical Services after he complained of feeling unwell at the National Stadium.

“His condition worsened suddenly upon admission to the Emergency Department and all subsequent efforts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful.

“The matter has been referred to the Coroner’s Office for determination of the cause of death.”

Is the TCI any different?

MILLS MUSES

Tim O’Sullivan

Gordon Kerr

Lawyers O’Sullivan and Kerr for June trial ATTORNEYS Tim O’Sullivan and Gordon Kerr are to appear before Judge James Bruce Robertson for trial this June.

But the exact day for the commencement of the trial, which was initially set on June 9, 2014, has not been set.

Senior Deputy Registrar of the Supreme Court, Nayasha Hatmin told this publication that the day will be decided when the lawyers appear for their pre-trial review hearing sometime soon.

The one year delay in the trial was due to reports by a media house of details of the case that could have possibly been prejudicial to the defendants receiving a fair hearing.

The men are to receive a trial by jury.

Kerr and O’Sullivan are alleged to have cheated the public revenue on or about August 14, 2006, of approximately $1.5 million in stamp duty by falsely representing the value of the property and land transaction in respect of the sale Emerald Cay. They allegedly represented the price as $11 million (including $1 million for chattels) when in fact and in truth the real value of the transaction was approximately $28 million.

Another charge alleges that

between January 1, 2005, and March 31, 2007, the two lawyers conspired with Timothy Blixseth, Andrew Hawes, Angelina Morron, Gary Di Silvestri and others to cheat the collector of stamp duty and the public revenue of stamp duty due and payable upon the sale by a company known as Worldwide Commercial Properties Limited to Emerald Cay Limited of land and real property known as Emerald Cay by falsely representing the value of the transaction as mentioned in the previous charge.

The third count alleges that between January 1, 2005, and August 31, 2006, Kerr and O’Sullivan conspired with Blixseth, Hawes, Morrone, Di Silvestri and others to falsely represent documents required for accounting purposes by the collector of stamp duty with a view to cause loss to the public revenue and for the gain of Blixseth, Hawes, Morrone and Di Silvestri by a false declaration of the value of land and property known as Emerald Cay. O’Sullivan, originally of Ireland, has lived in the TCI since 1986, and is a partner at law firm Miller Simons O’Sullivan.

Englishman Gordon Kerr is a partner at Misick and Stanbrook, and has been living in the TCI since 1987.

POLITICS is about growth, development and opportunities.

But whenever you browse through any Caribbean newspaper you barely find evidence of politics delivering for the people.

Rather you read about the top bananas looking out for themselves, the growing gap between the haves and the have nots, and the poor performance of economies.

This happens despite independence which was supposed to bring milk and honey.

An article with these themes recently appeared in a top Caribbean newspaper. It expressed the need for a new leader of the Government and the Opposition for the concerned country.

It claims the economy has not grown appreciably, the national debt accounts for the largest share of the budget, healthcare leaves much to be desired, the majority of high school students cannot achieve five CSEC subject passes at one sitting and the road networks have deteriorated.

The writer observes of the Opposition leader, that there is infighting and that there is no difference between the governing party and the Opposition.

Is the TCI any different?

BY Oliver Mills

Oliver Mills was born in South Caicos, acquired a diploma in article writing from the Writer’s Digest School in the United States, and worked as training manager for the Turks and Caicos public service.

He is currently an adjunct lecturer in the Business and Hospitality Departments at the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College.

When you listen to the talk shows you hear of complaints regarding healthcare of the political ‘have gots’ and their lifestyles, in comparison with that of the ‘have nots’, and the state of many of our roads.

Some say particular islands have been forgotten, and that there is a bias towards others. And of course, the Government and Opposition come in for their share of blame.

Is there an underlying motive here?

Is the TCI therefore any different from what the writer mentioned in the Caribbean newspaper?

And how does all this tie into how we manage things here? How many of our students pass more than five CSEC subjects at one sitting with good grades?

How many are accepted into institutions without having to do make-up programmes?

Has our economy grown at a respectable pace? And who benefits?

We boast of surpluses. But how were

these obtained?

Is it by denying some islands the benefits of development, and steering our institutions into the pockets of the usual suspects? Or through foreign investment?

Does our national debt account for a significant share of our budget, and isn’t it so that every country is indebted to institutions?

But do we need a new political directorate, and Opposition leader? What is happening that we would need to change our leaders?

Is our economy not rated one of the best performing in the Caribbean, and do we not enjoy political stability at home?

And doesn’t every society have groups with different views that enrich democracy?

So are we then really different from how the journalist describes his society? Or are we on balance the same?

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Doctor follows in footsteps of father

BY DAISY HANDFIELD DAUGHTER of Dr Hugh Malcolm, Marcela Malcolm, has recently moved to the TCI from the Bahamas to work as a paediatrician at her father’s clinic, Carolina Medical Clinic.

On Wednesday (February 4) Malcolm told the Weekly News that she previously worked at the Princess Margaret Hospital in the Bahamas.

“I rotated through all the departments including medicine, surgery and OBGYN, but fell in love with caring for children and working in the paediatric department,” she said.

She just recently started working with her father as of January 2015, dealing with babies and children at the clinic.

Malcolm received her BSc in biology from North Carolina Central University on a full scholarship from the TCI Government.

She then attended the University of the West Indies School of Medicine in Trinidad and in the Bahamas.

She said: “The population in the Bahamas is well over 300,000 and the public and main hospital (PMH)

Dr. Marcela E Malcolm

is responsible for the majority of the population, besides Doctors Hospital that is privately own.

“My experience there was extensive.

“Other than that, living in the Bahamas I was never bored, the social climate there was vibrant.”

Malcolm explained to the Weekly News that she resigned her job at the hospital in the Bahamas to study for board exams to further her qualifications in paediatrics.

With her current job at the clinic, she now has more time to study for these exams.

The 30-year-old doctor said that her plan is to finish off her studies and then permanently work in the TCI as a paediatrician.

Born in Colombia to Neffer Malcolm and Dr Hugh Malcolm, she grew up on the island of Grand Turk.

She graduated from Christian Academy Primary School where she was taught by both the Attorney General Rhondalee Braithwaite and her sister Dr Denise Braithwaite.

Later attending the Clement Howell High School in Providenciales.

Volunteer staff workers and management at FortisTCI

Power staff put energy into volunteer work STAFF from FortisTCI committed over 1,600 hours to volunteering in 2014.

The top five volunteers were Mervin Forbes with 241 hours, Devon Cox with 173.5 hours, Ladonna Bassett with 167.5 hours, Roxie Williams with 155.5 hours, and Callis Jones with 129 hours.

In total, FortisTCI staff surpassed their 2014 target ending the year with 1,647.5 hours - over 400 hours more than the company’s goal.

Mervin Forbes earned his 241 hours serving as the president of the TCI Rising Stars Basketball Club.

It is a non-profit youth outreach programme that he founded as a result of his personal passions and desire to give back to his community.

He also regularly volunteers as a basketball coach and mentor at a

local high school in Providenciales.

Devon Cox donated a large portion of his hours to his church’s youth ministry and used a significant portion of his vacation time to assist with annual programmes abroad with his mentees.

Roxie Williams and Ladonna Bassett both volunteer with the TCI Rising Star Basketball Club and serve as key members of the association.

They too gave time to other community projects mainly assisting with children’s programmes.

Callis Jones donated his time helping with rugby training across the Islands and volunteering as a coach for youth and woman’s rugby, in addition to helping out in other community sports activities.

According to a press release on

Monday (January 26), FortisTCI continues to support community initiatives and remains devoted to being a responsible corporate citizen across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“FortisTCI believes that embracing the community in which you live and work is an integral part of what the company and its employees are here to accomplish.

“Recognising top volunteers is a small way in which FortisTCI aims to say to these major contributors: ‘Thank you for your selfless and tireless work. You make a difference.’

“With increased volunteerism within the organisation over the past three years, FortisTCI employees are looking forward to another record-breaking year in 2015, giving back to the community through volunteering.”

February 7-13, 2015

continued

Facts about Islanders and other mammals – Part two

Dear Editor, Last week I submitted half of a long list of facts against captive dolphins in the TCI. Here is the rest: -More than 80,000 people have already signed online petitions against a dolphinarium in the TCI. In today’s world the news has travelled around the world lightning fast, and more and more people are saying they will NOT visit a country with such an ‘attraction’.

We cannot afford losing visitors this way!

-Our motto is ‘Beautiful by nature’ - there are countless letters/posts on pages like ‘Stop dolphinarium on Grand Turk’ and ‘TCI Dolphin Defence Fund’ which show that our current and potential visitors strongly oppose such a show here, saying that it’s not beautiful and it is not natural.

-Building this ‘attraction’ would require dredging. Dredging will damage the pristine environment of Grand Turk.

This could have enormous impact on our future generations' income, if they wish to continue living off tourism.

We are talking about your kids being unemployed on a ruined island.

-Blackfish, the Cove and similar films show the unimaginable cruelty during capture, and are rapidly and consistently swaying public opinion to not buy tickets to these shows.

Blackfish alone played a major role in SeaWorld’s significant loss of profits. Washington and Ontario announced closing their dolphinaria this week.

-International media have shown the world connection between dolphinaria and dolphins brutally slaughtered - 23,000 dolphins were murdered in Japan alone. This has caused global public outrage.

-Ric O’Barry, the father of dolphin ‘attractions’ turned animal rights activist is now touring the world and showing people how harmful these actually are. And people are listening.

-Trainers have been injured and killed by captive dolphins and orcas. We simply cannot afford the headlines like this - ‘A little girl bit by a captive dolphin in the Turks and Caicos Islands’.

-We are courting Brazil for our low season tourism: our low summer season is their winter.

Brazil is one of the first countries that banned dolphin ‘attractions’.

India went even further, they proclaimed dolphins to be ‘nonhuman persons’.

Yes, we are talking entire countries being against us.

-Many celebrities tweet messages of their dislike of these ‘attractions’.

Just to name a few - Joakim Noah, Tommy Lee, Aaron Paul and Jessica Biel. Twitter has enormous impact on the young generation.

-Eight out of 10 bands cancelled their scheduled concerts at Sea World last year.

-Children around the world are posting videos in which they protest dolphin ‘attractions’. How many families will our hospitality industry lose?

-And last, but not least important, dolphin ‘attractions’ use buses, not taxis in the other coves.

But there is good news!

We can help animals AND build a prosperous community at the same time.

Think about it. Imagine being known as the most animal friendly nation on the planet.

Instead of creating a show that would destroy our reputation of being ‘Beautiful by nature’, we could boost it by taking care of those animals ordered to be set free from dolphinaria that were closed by courts.

Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the TCI Marine Mammal Rescue Facility.

We could very well market ourselves as Mother Nature’s protectors while ensuring sensible and long lasting jobs for large numbers of Islanders.

We could attract those celebrities, who, like Ricky Gervais, Richard Branson, Gwyneth Paltrow, Matt Damon, or Sean Penn would be happy to get, or already are on board.

They already support the Institute for Research and Rehabilitation of Marine Animals (IPRAM) in Brazil and so we could team up with these organisations for support, guidance and funds.

I can already see the National Geographic crew filming in Grand Turk!

There are people here, both local and expat, who care, really CARE for animals.

Those who work at the TCSPCA, the vets and volunteers who spend endless hours rescuing and rehabilitating dogs, cats, dolphins, donkeys, horses.

Please talk to them, they will tell you the truth about how much we would all profit from being world leaders in nature protection.

Consider the positive publicity, the jobs, the popularity while doing something really, really good.

It is a win-win situation!

Sara Skye Long Bay Providenciales

February 7-13, 2015

Court will review Justice Paul Harrison’s appointment THE SUPREME Court has allowed an application for a judicial review to be conducted of Justice Paul Harrison’s latest appointment to hear the corruption trial.

The application was filed in court last week by former Premier Michael Misick.

It challenges Governor Peter Beckingham’s November 27, 2014, decision to extend Justice Harrison’s term in office from January 2015 with no specified term limit.

Harrison was first appointed in 2012 by former Chief Justice Edwin Goldsbrough for a two year term that ran from July 10 to June 2014.

It was then extended to December 2014 by Beckingham.

The Jamaican jurist is presiding over the trial of Misick and several others who face a slew of corruption related offences committed during the former Premier’s two terms in office between August 2003 and March 2009.

The plaintiff wants the court to quash Beckingham’s decision to indefinitely extend Harrison’s time and declare it as unlawful.

Misick claims that the Governor exceeded his authority when he made that decision and that it is contrary to the provisions of section 85 of the 2011 Constitution of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

He is further asking the court to order that Harrison’s tenure as a judge in the TCI Supreme Court came to an end last December.

Harrison’s advanced age is also in contention, as at the time of his initial appointment he was reportedly 75-years-old.

However, at that time, the Governor (Ric Todd) by virtue of the 2006 Constitution which was then in

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Justice Paul Harrison

force was entitled to appoint a judge regardless of age, for a specified term.

The 2011 Constitution subsequently came into force on October 15, 2012.

According to Misick’s application, Governor Beckingham was authorised under the 2011 Constitution to extend Harrison’s appointment in June 2014 to enable him to carry out any proceedings already started before him.

However, he was not authorised to extend the judge’s tenure in November for an indefinite period and because he had long attained the age of retirement by virtue of the constitution.

Misick claims that it was not necessary for Harrison to continue in office in order to do any act in relation to the sole case which he had conduct and that there is no basis within the 2011 Constitution on which his term could be extended.

REAL TALK

Do we really love our country?

WHAT is love? Baby don’t hurt me, don’t hurt me, no more.

If this country could speak for itself, I believe those would be the words it would say.

I have heard many of my fellow citizens proclaim their so-called love for this country especially when some of them are seeking an office of power or trying to defend a position of importance to them.

Can I shoot straight? Many Turks and Caicos Islanders today, do not understand what it really means to love this country.

What is love?

Love is feeling affection and kindness towards a person place or thing. However, real love is like real talk: it is real because it has no preconditions and no ulterior motives.

Moreover, I learnt in grade two in Mrs Annie Williams class that love is an action word, it must be demonstrated.

If you love me: show me!

Saying that you love this country but doing everything to hurt it is contradictory. If we truly love this country, we would stand up for what is right.

If we truly love this country, we would stop being black crabs to each other and learn to support each other in our struggles and successes.

By Jas Walkin

BIOGRAPHY: Jas was born with a physical disability and diagnosed with a mild form of muscular dystrophy. His early childhood was characterised with trying to fit in in a regular school environment unequipped to cater to special needs students. With support from family, teachers and the community he graduated as valedictorian of Raymond Gardiner High School and has been a graduate teacher for the past last nine years.

If we loved this country, the representatives we elect would have more passion for people and serve our interest rather than theirs, we would not let political opinion to separate us from a common goal, we would not encourage political nepotisms and cronyism.

If we had love for country, we would not sit silently when we witness crimes and refuse to testify when justice needs to be served, we would not celebrate when guilty people are set free and turn a blind eye when innocents and poor people are convicted because of a lack of due process and competent representation.

If we have love for country we would not seek ways to enrich ourselves dishonestly at the expense of poor struggling people.

If we love this country, when political leaders get beside themselves and think they are better than the people who elect them, we

would send them a clear message of rejection and humility, reminding them of why we sent them to parliament.

If we love this country, when people among us develop a God complex and believe that these 40 islands belong to them, and somehow they should reign over us, determine our faith and control the dreams of our posterity, we would kindly remind them that one man or woman has no right to be a God in this country and we already have a God and his name is Jehovah.

He rises up men and women and also sits them down at his leisure.

Finally, true love comes from God. If you don’t know him, you would not truly know what it means to love.

Therefore, you cannot truly love this country if you don’t fear Jehovah God.

COMMENTARY

The great unsaid WHILE the Turks and Caicos Islands is awash with promises and obvious deceptions, it is shortages in funding for a logical operating budget that haunt our daily lives - killing taxes pushing prices higher now are obvious.

However it is what has not been said or admitted that may be more important.

The PNP has yet to admit that their policy of raising taxes is due to their continued unrestrained, unmanaged spending that requires the payback fuelled by reckless taxation levels.

Unsaid is that the financial commitments to a flawed medical system by the present Premier

will be destructive for decades to come.

It goes without saying that those huge thank yous aka medical honorariums, paid in increments of $10,000 to certain PNPs, in other venues be known as kickbacks.

Unsaid is the reasons behind short lived police, ambulances and Government vehicles.

Untrained divers and zero fleet management. A fleet of broken down young Government vehicles. Fixing a flat tire, a major challenge.

Unsaid is why in the midst of all the growth experienced from the approved developments of the PDM years, a trade school to train our own people to perform technical jobs saving public money

and providing employment for our youngsters is not anywhere in the works.

Some youngsters are more technically than academically inclined.

Unsaid is why the Government has switched over to Digicel costing the public at large, huge phone bills because they hold Lime phones.

Who made that no bid decision and who benefits?

Also unsaid is why the present Governor has the smiling face and the benign activity of former Governor Tauwhare.

Recently revealed is Tauwhare will testify in coming court case against the previous PNP Government. Think about it!

By David Tapfer

David is a retired mobile hydraulic engineer and business executive. He has been married to Middle Caicos native Yvette Robinson Tapfer for 25 years and has lived in Conch Bar, Middle Caicos, since 2002. David formerly served as branch chairman of the PDM from 2008 to 2011

Is the early release of David Smith and coming turnover to USA justice a signal of things to come?

Unidentified people putting up $12 million in now frozen assets to bail out our extradited former premier.

How long will those assets remain frozen is yet to play out.

Now revealed is Oswald Skippings. In my opinion Skip is has clearly not acted for the PDM for decades but possibly is closer to the PNP from whom he now draws

support.

Neither the PNP nor Skip ever completed a four year term.

As one PNP said: “We may not know how to govern but we do know how to win elections.”

This is an indictment of our supposed untainted election system and 11, 17 and 30 plus voters who cannot say why they voted PNP. Unsaid is why the TCI Integrity Commission avoids a real investigation to find out why.

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February 7-13, 2015

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14 NEWS

February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

The coffin is covered in a Turks and Caicos Islands flag

Hundreds of people at the state funeral at the Downtown ballpark

‘A life lived with purpose and charisma’

– Hundreds attend state funeral for Rosita Butterfield A SEA of people adorned in black, white and red gathered at the Downtown ballpark in Providenciales on Thursday morning (February 5) to celebrate the life of Dr Rosita Beatrice Butterfield MBE. The former speaker of the House of Assembly, who died in the Bahamas last month aged 78, was awarded a state funeral for her tireless work in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

It was an uplifting and wellorganised formal affair filled with music, prayer and kind words of affection, admiration and respect.

On Monday (February 2) Rosita Butterfield’s body was transported from Doctor’s Hospital in Nassau to Odyssey Aviation.

From there she was taken on a Caicos Express chartered flight to JAGS McCartney International Airport in Grand Turk.

Her body then lay in the NJS Francis Building until midnight and then again on Tuesday morning.

That afternoon she was taken to JAGS McCartney International Airport and flown to Providenciales International Airport before being escorted to Faith Tabernacle Church on Leeward Highway.

On Wednesday evening a lengthy memorial service was held at the church for friends and family and loved ones.

Scores of people offered praise, condolences and tributes to the trailblazer, icon and leader during the

There was rousing music throughout the service

moving service.

Among them were members of the TCI’s various churches, family members and former colleagues, all of who gave thanks for being touched by the life of a great woman.

On Thursday morning the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force transported Dr Butterfield’s body along the highway to the Downtown ballpark.

The police force band played rousing tunes as officers stepped slowly in unison down the road.

Walking behind the coffin, which was draped in a Turks and Caicos Islands flag, were Governor Peter Beckingham, Premier Rufus Ewing and Speaker of the House of Assembly Robert Hall.

They were followed by members of the religious community, family members and former colleagues.

When they arrived at the ballpark they were met by crowds of people

Dr Rosita Beatrice Butterfield

Speaker of the House of Assembly Robert Hall speaks fondly of Dr Butterfield

February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Premier Rufus Ewing reads the obituary

It was a sea of black, white and red under the tents

seated underneath huge white tents were they were shaded from the hot sun.

Dr Butterfield’s body was taken to a large stage where it was laid before the Reverend Emanuel Rigby.

The Reverend Julia Williams took to the podium next to welcome everyone to the service and introduce speakers.

The audience then stood to sing the hymn Victory in Jesus before being bowing their heads as Pastor Kenneth Chukwu delivered a rousing opening prayer.

“We thank you for the good life you lived and the legacy that you left behind,” he said as his words echoed across the green field.

Governor Peter Beckingham then read psalm 46 and following another hymn Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson read from the epistle.

After the hymn ‘I’ve anchored in Jesus’ Speaker of the House of Assembly Robert Hall spoke fondly of Dr Butterfield who he called “a wonderful person and lovely human being”.

“Our dear sister Butterfield has now ceased from mental fight but thanks be to God she through his grace and through her family’s support has certainly helped to build Jerusalem in this green and pleasant

“As I look at her life I say she has fought a good fight, she finished her race,” he said.

“It is finished, the battle is over, there’ll be no more wars, it is finished, the end of the conflict.

“Sleep on my sister, we’ll meet you on the other side.”

Father Bernard Been then offered a prayer for the family.

The audience sang one last hymn before benediction by the Reverend Emanuel Rigby and a rendition of the national song.

land.”

He described a dedicated and giving woman who was proud to speak of her convictions.

Hall then adapted a Shakespeare quote to describe Dr Butterfield: “She was a lady, take her for all in all, I shall never look upon her like again.”

The Turks and Caicos Islands Mass Choir sang an upbeat selection before Premier Rufus Ewing read Dr Butterfield’s obituary.

He described a teacher, a nurse, a long standing member of parliament, a businesswoman, a preacher and a philanthropist.

She lived a long and fruitful life that touched many people and raised a large and successful family, he said.

Attendees sang another hymn ‘Just over in the glory land’ before Bishop Vernel G Clarke read the eulogy.

“We are confident that God has took home one of his finest,” he said.

He described Dr Butterfield as “transparent, a woman of excellence, a nation builder, a woman of boundless energy and outstanding work ethics, competent, influential, loyal, trustworthy”.

He said that she allowed nothing to destroy her passion for living life with purpose and charisma.

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force brass band

After the service hundreds of people followed the coffin as it was then taken back to Faith Tabernacle Church where over the past week a mausoleum has been built for Dr Rosita.

Friends and family gathered in the parking lot and lined the roads to pay their last respects to the much loved woman.

There was further prayer, hymns, the national anthem, a fanfare of trumpets, a gun salute and the handing over of the flag. Her

The coffin is led to the mausoleum at Faith Tabernacle Church

Mourners lay red roses on the coffin of Dr Butterfield

NEWS 15

body was then committed to the mausoleum.

Wails of grief could be heard from the crowd as Dr Butterfield was laid softly in her final resting place.

An usher handed out roses to leading police officers, dignitaries and family members to lay on the coffin before everyone parted from the site.

The Weekly News offers its condolences to all those who knew and loved Dr Rosita Beatrice Butterfield MBE.

Lifestyle...

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February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

How does your garden grow 

BY DENIS Belanger - NATURE SPLENDOR

Denis is a passionate landscape architect who enjoys the creative process and his clients’ joy when projects come to life. Contact Denis at Nature Splendor for your landscaping, installation or garden maintenance needs.

For more information call 332-3381 or email denis@naturesplendor.net.

Aliens in the garden THE OTHER day my friend David send me a picture on my phone of some sort of plants growing in his garden and he was wondering what it was.

Looking at the picture I thought, what the heck is this?

But I automatically thought of a sort a rare fungus, and that was what is was, although not that rare.

After some research I found out it was a Clathrus crispus.

Clathrus crispus appears

sometimes in the Islands, especially after some rain.

It is an outlandish and exotic looking stinkhorn reminiscent of a red-pink wiffle football on the exception of the God-awful stench that results from the slimy brown goo that covers the inside of the lattice.

There is also a Clathrus ruber, but that appears in California and Mexico - it is similar but lacks the ‘coronas’ that define it.

Each of the holes created by the

lattice appear radially grooved.

The two species also differ on microscopic features.

It grows alone or in group often near woody debris, in lawns, gardens, cultivated soil, and so on.

Up to four by six inches, shaped like a round, oval, or irregular ball.

The glistening, greenish-brown, very stinky, pasty goo inside the pores.

That stuff’s stench attracts insects such as flies who wander into the pores looking for putrefying flesh, mellowing manure and the like.

The gunk gets on the insects’

legs, they fly away and spread it on whatever they land on.

That’s good for the fungus since the slime has spores in it, and those spores can germinate to produce new fungi.

This friendly fungus is saprobic, feeding on already dead organic matter, and not attacking anything still living like some other types of fungi may.

That’s why it’s so often being found on mulch - mulch is dead wood after all, where the stinkhorn’s spores may be present.

It appears first as an egg-like

structure, covered in a white veil, which grows until it splits open in slimy, stinky glory.

As it grows out of the egg stage (the eggs are said to be edible, but no, just no don’t do it), the white disintegrates, leaving the red lattice structure to grow up into an oval, almost bulb shape.

The sickly green areas open eventually to complete the hollowness of the fully formed fruit body.

If you find this wonder fungus, you want to avoid breathing through your nose.

POLICE SAFETY TIPS

Domestic violence affects your kids CHILDREN don’t escape the impact of domestic violence.

Living in a relationship with abusive behaviour puts children at risk of harm, either directly by being abused or indirectly by witnessing the abuse of the parent or guardian.

The continuation of abuse and even exposure to such abuse could result in serious problems impacting on the child’s personal, health, education and social development.

Parents who remain in a relationship with a perpetrator must understand and accept that the abuse and violence they are experiencing is also having a significant impact on their children, whether they are physically hurt or not.

Children can be directly or indirectly affected by being present when they witness an assault occurring, smashing of property, witnessing ongoing harassment and intimidation or hearing the victim parent constantly crying from the trauma.

By Audley Astwood Audley, a former police detective and broadcaster, is currently the press officer for the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. His main focus is on crime prevention and community policing. For more information call 941-4448 or visit www.tcipolice.tc.

Some children may react by copying the perpetrator and begin hitting the victim parent or their brothers and sisters.

These children may frequently engage in bullying at home and at school as a direct result of learned behaviour from the perpetrator.

The impact on all children living

in this situation will result in some change in their behaviour.

They could become aggressive or withdrawn and become overly anxious in situations, become depressed, develop low self-esteem and a range of other reactive or repressive behaviours.

Many children continue to live in

an environment of abuse and violence and don’t receive help to understand why this behaviour is wrong.

Many will go on to repeat this violent behaviour in their adult life within their own relationships and families or, in the cases of a child victim, may later choose a partner who is violent. In either case, this is repeating the ‘cycle of violence’.

If this is your situation and, you are staying for the sake of the children then, STOP and consider all the longterm consequences of your decision.

For the sake of the children, you must get help, now!

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force will respond to all reports of domestic and violence and pursue the perpetrators to hold them accountable for their criminal

behaviour under Turks and Caicos law, by placing them before the courts.

Often time if not always, these cases are tried in closed court away from the public.

Even as the press officer for the police, will I have knowledge of your matter before the court.

No press release is given to the public detailing your matter. The police force respects your privacy and we do our part that enables you to move forward with your life with dignity.

For further domestic and family violence information, please contact your local social services office or www.tcipolice.tc or www. facebook.com/RTCIPF for more information.

February 7-13, 2015

Lifestyle...

ECO Tip 

YOUR BODY 

Lynn Robinson has lived in the Turks and Caicos Islands for 12 years and works at Big Blue Unlimited as a diving instructor, eco guide and boat captain. She is passionate about the environment and does regular beach clean ups while walking her three potcakes. Her other passion is running and can often be seen training for marathons and ultra-marathons.

17

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

By Lynn Robinson

Dr Craig Zavitz is a Canadian chiropractor registered in the Turks and Caicos Islands. He specialises in gentle manual therapies, activator, therapeutic laser, and smoking cessation.

To make appointments call 941-5252 or email craig@gracebaychiro.com. For more information visit www.gracebaychiro.com.

BY Dr Craig Zavitz

Don’t let a fall Homemade citrus bring you down vinegar cleaner WITH growing concerns about the safety of our household cleaning products, many people are looking to alternative solutions and one of the simplest recipes involves just three ingredients - citrus peels, white vinegar and water.

On their own, citrus and vinegar have many benefits, so combined they make the ideal safe and ecofriendly cleaner for any home.

Citrus is a natural degreaser, stain remover and freshener while vinegar helps tackle mould, bacteria, grease and mineral deposits.

All you have to do is save the citrus peels from oranges, grapefruit and/or lemons then place in a large glass jar and cover with white vinegar.

Seal the jar and let it sit for two weeks. After two weeks remove the rinds and strain the liquid through

a sieve then dilute with an equal amount of water.

Place in a recycled spray bottle and use around the home, especially in the kitchen and bathroom.

Not only does it smell good it’s antibacterial and also safe for you and the environment.

“Individually, we are one drop.

Together, we are an ocean.” – Ryunosuke Satoro.

Weekly Recipe Helen Barkworth-Knight is a teacher and qualified baker with a lifelong love for cooking for friends and family.

She is a mother to Owen, almost two, who has very particular tastes in all things, especially food.

Hence she has become an expert in hiding vegetables in all sorts of dishes!

Buttery shortbread cookies INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup of unsalted butter at room temperature, but not melting • ½ cup of caster or extra-fine sugar (plus extra for sprinkling) • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour • ¾ cup corn starch • Pinch of sea salt

METHOD

• Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

• Beat together the butter and sugar in a bowl until pale, creamy and fluffy.

• Sift the flour and corn starch into the bowl, then add the salt and mix until combined. Use your (clean) hands to bring it together into a soft dough.

• Turn out the dough out onto a piece of baking parchment and cover with a second piece. Roll out between the

•

• • • • • •

sheets of parchment until the dough is a quarter inch thick. This avoids the dough sticking.

Remove the top piece of parchment and cut into shapes using a knife or any cutter you like. You can reroll the offcuts, but the dough will toughen if you do it too many times.

Carefully lift the unbaked cookies onto the lined baking sheets and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

They don’t spread too much when baking, but leave a bit of space around each cookie.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 340°F. Once chilled, bake the cookies in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until the edges just start to turn golden.

Leave on the baking trays for a few minutes to crisp up, then remove to a cooling rack and dust with extra sugar.

Yields around 30, but it depends on the size of cutter you use.

A SENIOR who’s suffered an injury from a fall knows the dramatic impact it can have not just physically, but psychologically.

Falls can swiftly take away the sense of independence and confidence that allows a senior to fully enjoy their life.

Unfortunately, falls are all too common in our aging population, one in every three people over the age of 65 will experience a fall, with hips, wrists and pelvic fractures being the most common injuries.

However there are some easy tips and techniques anyone can use that help reduce the risk of injury as a result of a fall.

Reduce clutter in the home Maybe it’s time for some cleaning.

Getting rid of loose articles such as rugs prevents you from slipping or tripping in your home.

Reducing clutter can make for a

adjustment that can minimise your chances of slipping and falling on a wet floor.

Wear supportive footwear Many of us wear slippers around the house, especially during the cooler months.

Making sure your slippers have traction and are non-slip can safeguard you from falling in your home.

much safer environment.

Ensure easy transfers in and out of the bath The combination of water and tile can be drastic. Installing grab bars in your bathroom to help with getting in and out of the tub is an affordable

Have your eyesight and hearing checked every year Having your vision and hearing checked regularly is vital.

If hearing or vision is impaired, you can miss important cues that help maintain your balance, resulting in a fall.

Exercise regularly Although it can be a daunting task, exercising to improve strength and coordination helps to prevent your chances of losing balance and falling.

Have your medications evaluated It is possible for a patient to receive several prescriptions from multiple doctors.

By evaluating the medication you are on, you can decrease the chances of side effects and keep your sensory functions that help you stay balanced and upright intact.

Have your strength and balance tested A person with low mobility levels and poor balance is at a higher risk of falling.

Being mobile and continuing to improve balance is vital to helping prevent falls and injuries.

By following these falls prevention tips, you can reduce your chances of experiencing a fall that may lead to additional injuries down the road.

Visit a doctor of chiropractic or other qualified health professional to test your steadiness, balance and strength and give you additional information on falls prevention.

Zavitz is in Providenciales from Monday, February 9, to Wednesday February 18. He will also be in Grand Turk on Saturday, February 14, and Sunday, February 15.

18 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 7-13, 2015

Miss TCI 2014 speaks about Miss Universe experience

BY DAISY HANDFIELD ALTHOUGH Miss TCI 2014, Shanice Williams did not secure a placing in the top 15 at the 2015 Miss Universe pageant in Florida, she was still optimistic about her overall experience.

In an interview on Wednesday (February 4) she described her involvement in the pageant as life changing.

“I got the chance to see what it is really like to be responsible and take care of myself fully without that extra help.

“I also got the chance to see what it is really like to compete on an international stage; that was the most interesting aspect of my experience.”

Williams added that she has always heard other queens talk about the ‘biasness’ of the pageant and having to be able to do everything on their own, but when she arrived there it was so much more than that.

“You had so much fun because you were doing things constantly, your whole mind wasn’t on just

winning.

“It was about taking up the opportunities that you were given and just using them positively into making you into a better person.

“I think it was better than what I expected, I really enjoyed it.”

When asked to describe her routine while there, she said that organisers of the pageant expected them to arrive prepared.

“They didn’t give us much training per say, we at least had to have something to start with.

“We spent the majority of our time making appearances and only the last week of the pageant we did runway and dance rehearsals.”

Prior to and following the pageant Williams received positive reviews over social media.

She was considered a queen in the eyes of all of her supporters.

Williams encouraged aspiring beauty queens to be prepared for anything when competing in these types of competitions.

“Miss Universe provides you with

a schedule of events, don’t go by it,” she said.

“Go prepared for any and everything because things come up and it’s not like a matter of them doing it on purpose.”

She also encouraged people on a whole to maintain a positive attitude in life.

What’s next for this beauty queen? She revealed that she plans to pursue her master’s degree in finance abroad.

“I’m working alongside the Government to see if I can get a scholarship, if not I would have to use other means.

“I don’t see a future for modelling here in the TCI, but my plan is once I go off to do my degree I’ll just do it on the side possibly.”

On Sunday (January 25) millions of people across the globe were tuned into their television sets to watch 88 girls compete for the title of Miss Universe 2015.

The coveted crown was won by Miss Colombia Paulina Vega.

Miss TCI 2014 Shanice Williams holds up the TCI flag prior to her departure to Florida

Freezer donation for food drive A KINDHEARTED lawyer donated a chest freezer worth $1,050 to a church recently to assist with its daily food drive.

Attorney Finbar Grant handed over the vital piece of equipment to Apostle Kenneth Chukwu of Faith Tabernacle Church at Kischo Furniture in Providenciales on Thursday, January 29.

It will be used to store food for the Good Neighbours Purse Network TCI project which feeds people across the country who cannot afford three meals a day.

At the presentation Grant said: “Pastor Kenneth has been helping the community for a while now by donating food to those who may not be in a position to get any.

“We take pleasure in presenting this [freezer] so that it can help him with his working feeding the poor.”

He added that it is a very worthy cause and Apostle Chukwu is a reputable person who has a good heart.

Grant urged others to support the organisation by donating, food,

money or a little of their time.

Good Neighbours Purse Network TCI is a non-profit company founded by missionaries Apostle Kenneth Chukwu and Itohan Kenneth Chukwu who came to the TCI from Nigeria in 2008.

They believe in preaching the gospel by ministering the whole man – spirit soul and body.

Chukwu explained that he began giving up his lunch to feed the hungry when he was fasting.

Since then he has sourced food and used his time and money to deliver it to schools, churches and welfare departments across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“This is what the Lord has put in my heart to do,” Apostle Chukwu told gathered media.

As well as providing food, water, clothes and other basic necessities, the group also teaches people how to budget and manage their finances.

Volunteers are welcome and can find out more at 245-8728 or by email at apostlekennethchukwu@ gmail.com.

Attorney Finbar Grant donates a freezer to Apostle Kenneth Chukwu and his food drive

February 7-13, 2015

NEWS 19

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Industry leaders to be awarded during annual event

BY DAISY HANDFIELD THE TURKS and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) is preparing for the seventh annual Star Awards on February 26 at the Tropicana Supper Club in

Providenciales.

A press conference was held at the Regent Palms on Tuesday (February 3) to announce that this year there will be 15 categories, including the addition of two new categories.

Volunteers welcome at children’s home RESIDENTS with a little time to spare could make a huge difference to the lives of a group of children in Providenciales.

Tanis Wake-Forbes, chair of the Providenciales Children’s Home (PCH) Board, spoke to the Weekly News this week about the joys of volunteering.

“We are so lucky in that our community is filled with people from all walks of life and different experiences and skills,” she said on Monday (January 26).

“To be able to pass on your knowledge to children who are eager to learn is very rewarding.”

Those skilled in English, mathematics or science and an ability to teach small groups or individuals are highly sought after for after school tutoring.

But most skills or talents can be of use at the home, said Wake-Forbes.

Reading programmes, computer and IT training, cooking classes, arts and crafts, are all great projects to be involved with.

Drivers that can spare time in the mornings, afternoons or weekends would be a great help for the school run or escorting the children to activities.

The home is also in need of gardeners who can work with the children and staff planting and growing vegetables that often find their way onto the dinner table.

Volunteers only need to give up a few hours of their time but it is important that they are able to commit to at least three months at a regular day and time.

This will provide a sense of stability to the children and enable them to build a rapport with the visitors, Wake-Forbes explained.

Those who can spare a full day each month are encouraged to take part in the Friends Day Out programme.

“That will be an adult or an adult and their family, that has been vetted, and they will take one child, one day of the month for a fun day out.

“They will go out with this family, experience their lifestyle, go to a barbecue, the beach, to a pool or kayaking, and spend that day with them.

“The idea is not to buy them things but instead let them be the focal point of attention for that one day and enjoy a family outing.”

Provo Children’s Home, based in Chalk Sound, was established in January 2010 as a sanctuary for orphans or children in need - not to be confused with juvenile delinquents.

Since then 63 children have been given shelter, food and care within its walls – ranging in time from a single overnight stay to several years in residence.

Those wishing to volunteer at the home or find out more can contact Tanis Wake-Forbes on 231-5012 or email buildgroup@pch.tc, or manager Ashley Adams at 242-7197 or email ashley@pch.tc.

The first addition is the Hospitality Hero, where anyone in the community can nominate anyone to win.

Karen Whitt general manager for the Regent Palms said nominations do not have to come from the tourism sector, they can actually come from any sector, and be anyone that the public feels plays a role in impacting hospitality in the country.

The second is Fan Favourite where fans will also have the opportunity to vote for their favourite overall winner online.

She said: “It is really amazing because we have grown from strength to strength every single year.

“Not only in terms of the community support, the sponsorships, the criteria, but the competition has gotten much stiffer as the years go on.”

Whitt said that when she reflects on each event, she can tell that year after year each event has something special.

“Being in the hospitality world, you’ve got to give your heart and your soul.

“It’s the type of industry that requires a certain type of passion and

dedication.”

MCs for the event will be Takara Bain and E Jay Saunders.

Nicholette Thomas, office manager for TCHTA, said that there are from 100 to 130 nominees annually for the competition.

“We have a criteria that is sent to our members because Star Awards is mostly for our members.

“Some categories are chosen by judges and some are voted by the members.”

Nominations will be taken online and there will be an online voting poll.

The cost for tickets will be $75 per person. More information is available on the TCHTA Facebook page.

Among judges are Colin Sterling

from CSC Insurance Brokers, Sean Brathwaite from Scotia Bank, Michelle Hosten, head of hospitality studies at the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, and Tremmaine Harvey, Attorney at Law for Misick and Stanbrook.

TCHTA represents a wide range of members from hotels and resorts to insurance companies and financial service providers, from watersports operators to catering outlets, from taxi drivers to human resources.

The association aims to assist the organisations through networking opportunities, training, promotional activities and representation at all levels of decision-making in the Turks and Caicos Islands and the region.

The Towers of Babel Art is our language For more information email towersofbabel101@gmail.com or visit www.towersofbabel.weebly.com

The deaf poem Poetry is an art, Poetry is an expression, Poetry has the ability to alter reality to create mental satisfaction, Poetry is food for the soul, Poetry has the ability to gather every microscopic piece of a broken man and make him whole.

Poetry is vent.

Poetry gives you the ability to descend to the deepest basement of a woman’s heart, To find the love within her after being stripped apart.

Poetry is the gateway between what we see and what we want to see, I’m here to testify how poetry opened my eyes made a believer out of me.

Poetry is vent.

Do not take for granted, the intimate feeling you get, When you read an intriguing poem in which your hormones are set, Free from the mental captivity in which your body is kept.

Poetry is like walking through a garden and setting your five senses free, It's like smelling a rose grown in the summer’s eve.

Poetry is vent.

Poetry is one of the supporting beams on the great Towers of Babel, Poetry is a distinctive language in which only the gifted and chosen will learn to unravel.

Hopeless are those who are born deaf, To the poetry in which my mind is set, FREE. Poetry is vent.

20

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 7-13, 2015

Amnesty casts doubts over child immigration law in the Bahamas NEW immigration restrictions for children could violate international law, a regional campaigner for Amnesty International said earlier this week.

Robin Guittard, Amnesty International (AI) Caribbean campaigner, expressed concerns over the government’s plans to require all non-Bahamian students, even those born here (in the Bahamas) to immigrant parents, to have a student permit for the fall semester or a passport with a residency stamp.

He said it was likely that the nonprofit organisation would seek formal communication with the government to request clarification over Foreign Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell’s announcement last week.

The issue has also caught the attention of Florida lawmaker Daphne Campbell, who was born in Haiti. She wrote a letter to Prime Minister Perry Christie on Tuesday about the new requirement for non-Bahamian children, calling it a “deeply disturbing” change that is “not only discriminatory” but violates a United Nations’ declaration and this country’s Education Act. “The information provided by the minister regarding new rules for foreign children or children born in the Bahamas of foreign parents to access schools could violate the Bahamas’ international obligations,” Mr Guittard said.

“International law is clear that primary education should be compulsory and free for all.

Discrimination based on nationality

or migration status, any cost imposed on access, or any other obstacle to access is unlawful,” he added.

The United Nations’ Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is a human rights treaty that outlines the rights of all children under the age 18. Once ratified, countries are bound to uphold the convention by international law.

UNCRC Article 2 mandates that all children are free from discrimination on the grounds of ethnicity, gender, religion, language, abilities or any other status, whatever they think or say, or family background. Article 28 outlines the right to education and specifies that primary education should be free.

The Bahamas became a signatory to the CRC on October 30, 1990; however, the treaty was signed with a reservation over the provisions of Article 2.

The reservation read: “The government of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas upon signing the convention reserves the right not to apply the provisions of Article 2 of the said convention insofar as those provisions relate to the conferment of citizenship upon a child having regard to the provisions of the Constitution of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.”

Meanwhile, Mrs Campbell called on Mr Christie to reverse the “negative” policies implemented by Mr Mitchell and fire him as foreign affairs and immigration minister.

“I know you as a decent man of God; who is described as a ‘man who is always quoting scriptures

in Parliament,’ you certainly, cannot agree to such a regressive immigration policy which will create a large population of illiterate people in a country that you lead,” she wrote.

Mrs Campbell said the Bahamas’ Education Act mandates that all minor children must attend school and has penalties for parents who do not enrol their children.

“So as you can see, sir, this policy seems to be aimed at creating criminals of parents who cannot afford to pay for student visas/ permits now. It also targets those electing not to send the children to school,” she wrote, adding that many Haitians make the minimum wage and will not be able to afford the student permit.

She added: “What will the future of the Bahamas be like when you have 25 to 30 per cent of your population consisting of frustrated people, who cannot read and write, cannot comprehend and have the necessary logic and wisdom; who cannot provide for their families, what will this do to the fabric of the Bahamian society? Or please tell me, are you hoping that more slaves are created under your leadership with this policy?”

Last week’s announcement has come under scrutiny from political observers, local human rights activists and was highlighted as a “tough” policy in the Saturday edition of The New York Times. Some observers have said the requirement will make it harder for children of immigrants to get an education.

People pass a burning barricade during oil price protests.

Haiti: Three wounded in high oil price clash Three people have been wounded by gunfire as violence erupts between demonstrators and Haitian police amid demonstrations over high oil prices.

Police forces used live ammunition and teargas to disperse protesters blocking roads in the Haitian capital Port-au-Prince on Monday, AFP reports.

Haitian trade unions have deemed the new elected government’s recent gas and kerosene price cuts as insufficient.

“We demand that oil prices drop by 100 gourdes (about $2) per liter,” said union leader Anderson Desroches.

The government recently announced a small decrease of 15 gourdes ($0.32) per liter of gas and

10 gourdes ($0.21) on kerosene.

The three-people were shot in a neighborhood south of the capital as violence broke out between protesters, who were smashing car windows, and police.

On January 17, Haitian police forces clashed with demonstrators calling for the resignation of President Michel Martelly.

The peaceful demonstration turned violent after police arrested two protesters they accused of being thieves in Port-au-Prince.

Haiti’s new government was sworn in on January 19 at the National Palace in Port-au-Prince.

The new government is headed

by Prime Minister Evans Paul, and is consistent of twenty ministers and 12 secretaries of state. (SRK/NT/AS)

Money lenders ‘have created modern day slaves’ in the Bahamas PRIME Minister Perry Christie on Tuesday chastised lending institutions for breeding a culture of “modern day economic slaves”.

Mr Christie further accused those institutions of “cajoling and sweet talking” customers to sign on to personal loans for things that they cannot afford.

The prime minister said banks and other lending institutions were getting richer by imposing excessive interest rates on customers driven by a high volume of employees with salary deductions.

To combat this, Mr Christie appealed to bank executives to work with the government to bring a new Consumer Lending Act to the Bahamian Parliament. He said successive administrations had failed to pass the legislation, despite promising to do so.

He was speaking during the Royal Fidelity Bahamas Economic Outlook Conference in the Crown Ball Room at the Atlantis Resort.

“We are now in an age of growing economic slavery,” Mr Christie said, “driven by excessive unmanageable personal debt. There is simply too much personal debt that is being taken on by too many people in our country.

“We need to break out of that because it can’t go on much longer like this.”

“Banks and other lending institutions are getting richer, particularly with the excessive interest rates that are being charged by some. It is turning too many people in our country into, what I characterise while I am making the point, into modern day slaves.”

He added: “Indeed with the prevalence of salary deductions you have a whole bunch of folks who are taking home literally just a few dollars every month, hardly enough to feed their families, to keep the lights on and keep the water running.

The rest of what they earn is going towards personal debt service.”

Bahamian PM Perry Christie accused money lenders of “cajoling and sweet talking” customers to sign on to personal loans for things that they cannot afford.

Mr Christie said he was disappointed that banks would not support young entrepreneurs, but choose to lend money for vacations and furniture among other things.

“You can borrow money for a car or fridge or stove or furniture. But you can’t borrow a dollar if you are a young entrepreneur with a small idea who has a solid business plan to start

a new venture that will end up hiring people.

“Today we have people taking out loans for vacations that they will end up taking seven years to pay back or taking out loans for large weddings or for cars that they really don’t need to change right now. They are taking out loans for this and loans for that.

“They are piling up these loans and piling up their credit cards and pay at 18, 20 or 22 per interest and whatever other charges that might exist.”

Mr Christie insisted that there is now a compelling urgency to address this issue. He said the amount of salary deductions for loans should be limited.

He added that banks and lending institutions should also take steps to encourage saving with a view to lessening the appetite for personal debt. Mr Christie encouraged banks to lead the way in refraining from charging excessive interest rates.

(Tribune242)

February 7-13, 2015

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Martinique to join OECS IN a major move for the region, Martinique will be joining the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) as an associate member.

The OECS announced the move this week. Martinique, the first-ever French territory to join the OECS, will officially join the grouping on Wednesday in a ceremony at the Bateliere hotel in Fort de France.

“The involvement of Martinique in the OECS; while there are limitations because of their status in relation to France, opens up great potential and certainly widens the demographics from an economic perspective,” said OECS Director General Dr Didacus Jules. “We have seen the relationship grow between Martinique and Saint Lucia and between Guadeloupe and Dominica for example. What that does now is widen this to the whole OECS. The use of Martinique as a tertiary health facility centre for the OECS is something under discussion so there are a lot of opportunities.”

The decision comes about two years after a report commissioned

by the government of St Lucia urged OECS integration for both Martinique and Guadeloupe.

Martinique and Guadeloupe (along with French Guiana) are also seeking associate membership in CARICOM. “It’s not enough to just grow the economy if you are growing it and only the existing players benefit, it has to be the type of growth that leads to a widening of opportunity for smaller persons; trickle-down effect; a spread of the benefits and community tourism we think will do particularly well with the engagement of Martinique and Guadeloupe,” Jules said. “So we are expecting that this will yield great benefits in terms of weekend travel, bed and breakfast arrangements, community sporting activities, and so on.”

The President of Martinique’s regional council, Serge Letchimy, has been a major proponent of strengthened relations with France’s neighbours in the region.

Martinique is joining Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands as associate members of the regional grouping. (Caribjournal)

Three of those, who lost their lives in the Essequibo River, were children.

Guyana: Four drown following ritual for dead relative FOUR people, including three children, drowned Monday while returning from a ritual for a woman who died last year, police have said.

They said the bodies of Radika “Nadira” Persaud, 53, Rovin Persaud, 14, Billy “Anil” Narine 12 and nine-year old Annatina Persaud were recovered close to the drainage sluice near the East Bank Essesquibo village at Vergenoegen.

Police said that Danwantie Persaud took her grandchildren, Annatina and Billy to the home of her sister, where they were preparing for a religious function for Danwantie’s mother who died on January 2, last year.

Relatives said that the quartet went to the river side to “throw away flowers” and failed to return.

(Caribbean360)

21

Jamaica ganja decision could impact Caribbean islands -Cayman police chief warns

JAMAICA’S decision to decriminalise cannabis could have negative consequences for Cayman and other Caribbean islands where the drug is still illegal, Police Commissioner David Baines has warned.

Mr. Baines believes the Cayman Islands should consider treating lowlevel cannabis possession offences with a police caution rather than a criminal charge.

But he said he did not support full decriminalisation and warned that Jamaica’s decision would have a knock-on effect throughout the Caribbean.

The Jamaican Cabinet, in January, approved a bill that would legalize the possession of small amounts of marijuana, and set a legal framework for the cultivation, sale, and distribution of the drug for medical and therapeutic purposes.

Mr. Baines fears that could mean a relaxation of enforcement on Jamaica’s borders when it comes to the import and export of the drug.

“Jamaica is awash with ganja,” he said. “They are the biggest exporter, so guess what? They have decriminalised it.

“What is that going to mean in terms of border security issues?

Does it mean they are going to cut down on border security, so it is our problem?”

He said there was a clear risk that responsibility for enforcement would be transferred to places like Cayman and the rest of the Caribbean, where possessing, consuming and selling marijuana remains illegal.

Citing similar issues in the U.S. where states bordering Washington and Colorado are facing issues

Police Commissioner David Baines believes the Cayman Islands should consider treating low-level cannabis possession offences with a police caution rather than a criminal charge.

with cannabis bought legally in those states coming across the border, he said Cayman Islands law enforcement officials would need to keep an eye on what was happening in Jamaica.

He said he did not support Cayman following the example set

by Jamaica, though he did suggest that small possession offenses could, in some circumstances, be treated with a caution.

“I think there is an issue at first offense that junior individuals with low levels of simple possession they get a warning or caution so they are not criminalized. Once they have had three chances, that should be it, gone, but there is no need to criminalize them at that early stage ....

“I have not asked for nor suggested that drug possession be decriminalized. I have said that officers should have other options to use their discretion, rather than just progressing for prosecution.

“This would include the ability to formally caution or warn an offender for simple possession, therefore negating the need for the individual to have a criminal record, let alone clog up the court and prison system.”

Such a move would require amendments to the Criminal Code to allow officers a formal process to seize and dispose of the drug without bringing criminal charges.

Michael Myles, the government’s at-risk youth officer, agreed it was important to keep young people out of the criminal justice system if possible. “However, we must be cautioned that many of our young people are becoming addicted to the drug,” he said.

Mr. Myles believes widespread use of cannabis among Cayman’s youth is a symptom of a wider problem.

“The use of ganja is not the problem I am concerned most about. Ganja is normally used to mask the root cause of many issues our youngsters are faced with. For example, there are many children struggling with mental health issues, abuse and neglect, lack of parenting, and poverty.

“Many of our children are using ganja as an escape to mask these issues. If we don’t address these issues, simply decriminalizing ganja will not have an impact. It will contribute to a larger social issue.”

Commissioner Baines said results from countries like Portugal, which has begun treating drug use as a health issue rather than a law enforcement issue, were mixed.

He added, “My wish would be that law enforcement outcomes should include caution and warnings and softer options than merely criminal conviction and affecting young people’s futures for a judgement call that is questionable.

Jamaica Cabinet approves 330MW power projects CABINET has given approval for two energy-generation projects, totalling 330 megawatts, which will increase the country’s electricity generation capacity and reduce the cost to consumers.

The aim is 380 megawatts, however, the 50 megawatts expected from JAMALCO is now uncertain following the Noble Group’s takeover of Alcoa’s shares in the company’s operations last December.

Approval was given to the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) for the replacement of its 292 megawatts of heavy fuel oil power plant at Old Harbour in St

Catherine with a 190-megawatt gas turbine generation plant, while Alpart got the green light to build a 140-megawatt gas turbine cogeneration facility at Nain, St Elizabeth.

“It (JAMALCO) is still included in the equation that we are considering (but) we cannot be definitive about that equation this morning because of the change in ownership at JAMALCO,” chair of the Electricity Sector Enterprise Team (ESET) Dr Vincent Lawrence told Tuesday’s Jamaica House press briefing.

Lawrence disclosed that the ESET’s appraisal of the JAMALCO

project has been set back as Noble wants to review the proposals left by the previous owners and devise its own plan.

“Noble Group has indicated a definite interest in energy solution but they want to review and analyse and make their own decisions.

They are leaning very heavily towards what ALCOA had recommended, but they are also re-analysing and ensuring that it’s best for what they would want to do as the new majority partners,” Lawrence told journalists. Noble is expected to make its decision known by the end of this month.

(Jamaica Observer)

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February 7-13, 2015

Entertainment Brown’s last texts reveal lasting misery over mum’s death MERE days before she was found unconscious in a tub filled with water, Bobbi Kristina Brown reportedly sent a series of anguished texts revealing her lasting grief over her mother Whitney Houston’s tragic drowning.

The pain, the late pop diva’s only child confided to a family friend, left her feeling “like your heart has been ripped out of your chest,” Radar Online reported.

“I was ALLLLL my mother lived for,” Bobbi Kristina allegedly wrote in one of her final texts before Saturday’s accident. Radar didn’t identify the recipient.

“Despite the fame, the fortune, the power — any and everything, my mother has done FOR ME lady,” she added.

“She was and is my everything ma’am.”

The 21-year-old remained in a coma in an Atlanta hospital, five days after she was pulled from a bathtub in an emergency eerily similar to her famous mother’s drug-overdose demise.

Another batch of messages contained some happier news; she and her lover, Nick Gordon, were reportedly trying to have a baby.

“My husband and I are trying now,” she allegedly wrote in a message weeks ago.

She also revealed how she hoped live up to the standard set by her superstar mother, whose golden voice ruled the pop charts during her ‘80s and ‘90s heyday.

“Living on my own with MY

Robin Williams married his third wife Susan in 2011.

Williams’s family fights over comedian’s estate

Bobbi Kristina Brown, 21, remained in a coma in an Atlanta hospital, after she was pulled from a bathtub in an emergency eerily similar to her famous mother’s drug-overdose demise.

husband and working my a-- off in the studio and acting and doing as my mother taught me to do...” she said, according to Radar.

“She would want me to be independent,” she said.

News of the Bobbi Kristina’s fateful final messages comes as a family vigil entered its fourth day

at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, where the 21-year-old was reportedly hooked to a ventilator.

Gordon, 25, and a friend, Maxwell Lomas, discovered her face down in an upstairs tub at her suburban Atlanta home Saturday, the victim of what some outlets have reported was an accidental drug overdose.

ROBIN Williams’ widow and children have gone to court in a dispute over the late comedian’s estate.

In papers filed in December in San Francisco Superior Court, Williams’ wife Susan accused his children of taking items without her permission.

The children - Zachary, Zelda and Cody - argued that Susan Williams was “adding insult to a terrible injury” by trying to change their trust agreement.

The dispute involves items Williams kept at two homes and in storage.

Susan Williams has requested

that the contents of the home she shared with her husband be excluded from the jewellery, memorabilia and other items her husband said his children should have.

Williams’ children have taken issue with this suggestion, saying there should be no limits placed on the items to which they are entitled.

Items in dispute include the actor’s collection of watches and the Oscar statuette he won in 1998 for Good Will Hunting.

The star committed suicide at his home in Tiburon, California, in August 2014. (BBC)

Knight taken to hospital after court hearing FORMER US rap music mogul Marion “Suge” Knight has been taken to hospital shortly after pleading not guilty to murder and attempted murder in court.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said Mr Knight was seen by doctors after complaining of chest pains.

His earlier court appearance came five days after he was involved a hit-and-run incident in which one man died.

Prosecutors claim he intended to run over two men after an argument, but his lawyer has said it was an accident.

The 49-year-old faces a total of four charges under his real name Marion Hugh Knight and faces life in prison if convicted.

A truck Mr Knight was driving hit and killed his friend Terry Carter, 55, in the incident in the suburb of Compton last week.

Another man, Cle “Bone” Sloan, 51, was injured.

The former record label boss’s

Tim Farriss has thanked fans for their “outpouring of love”.

INXS guitarist Tim Farriss severs finger in accident Mr Knight founded Death Row Records in the 1990s but later declared bankruptcy and the company was sold at auction.

lawyer said his client was trying to escape an attack at the time.

At a brief court hearing in Compton, the judge set a bail hearing for Monday and Mr Knight was remanded in custody.

On Monday, a court commissioner revoked the $2m (£1.3m) bail after police said the defendant had a

violent past and could intimidate witnesses.

Mr Knight founded Death Row Records in the 1990s but later declared bankruptcy and the company was sold at auction.

He helped launch the careers of artists including Dr Dre, Tupac Shakur and Snoop Dogg.

INXS guitarist Tim Farriss has said he may never play the guitar properly again after severing his finger in a boating accident.

Farriss, 57, caught his left hand while operating a winch on his boat in Sydney last month, severing his ring finger.

He has undergone surgery twice to try to reattach the finger but has been left with permanent hand damage.

In an email to his brothers and bandmates he reportedly said the

situation was “horrific”.

“I don’t know if I will be able to play properly again,” local media quoted him as saying.

The band’s manager, Chris Murphy, said Farriss was now home and undergoing physiotherapy to help him regain some movement “He is getting the best possible care and we hope with time he will regain movement in his finger. This was a terrible accident, we are all here to support him.”

February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Entertainment Scherzinger, Hamilton split after dating for seven years: report NICOLE Scherzinger is back on the market.

The former “X Factor” judge, 36, and her on-again, off-again boyfriend Lewis Hamilton, 30, have called it quits, sources confirmed to Us Weekly.

“She wanted to get married now, he didn’t,” a source told the mag. “It was a problem caused by their age gap, not because he didn’t want to be with her.”

The Pussycat Doll singer and her British Formula1 racing beau have broken up and gotten back together several times since they began dating in 2007.

During their last reconciliation, rumors began to surface that the two were engaged although it seems the lack of a ring was actually the reason for the split.

In an interview with Cosmopolitan last June, Scherzinger explained that maintaining a long distance relationship was difficult since she’s based in L.A. and Hamilton is based in Europe.

“Relationships are hard and having to hold a long-distance relationship is even harder. It’s kudos to us for growing and trying – there’s so much love there,” she said at the time.

“It’s just the distance; it’s not natural for anyone. But I’m good and I’m happy.”

Lewis Hamilton and Nicole Scherzinger have broken up and gotten back together several times since they began dating in 2007.

Scherzinger is currently starring in Andrew Lloyd

Webber’s “Cats” in London as Grizabella. (NYDailynews)

Five Monet works sell for £55m in one hour FIVE paintings by Monet sold across one hour have contributed to Sotheby’s “highest ever” sales record in London.

Tuesday’s impressionist and modern art sale, which also included other famous artists’ works, fetched a total of £186m.

The five Monet pictures sold for a collective £55.7m.

The French impressionist’s Le Grand Canal from his celebrated Venice series was the night’s top earner, achieving £23m.

The 271-year-old auction house said buyers originated from 35 countries.

But it was collectors from Asia and Russia that asserted themselves “as a continued force in the market,” Sotheby’s Helena Newman said.

One of the five Monet pieces sold included Les Peupliers a Giverny, which was on offer for the first time from the

Sotheby’s staff with Le Grand Canal by Claude Monet which sold along with four other of the artist’s works.

collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York, and sold for £10.7m.

Other works featured in the auction included Matisse’s Odalisque au fauteuil noir picture, a portrait of the great grand-daughter of the last Sultan of Turkey, fetching £15.6m.

An owl sculpture called

Chouette, which was handpainted by Pablo Picasso and inspired by his own pet owl, also sold for £1.2m.

The £7.7m paid for a drawing by Georges Seurat - which was a study for his oil painting Une baignade, Asnieres - was a record for a work by the artist on paper, Sotheby’s said.

February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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February 7-13, 2015

February 7-13, 2015

Entertainment

27

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Jenner ‘explicitly’ explained transition into a woman to his children: report

Harper Lee, 88, is said to be hard of hearing and almost blind.

Lee dismisses concerns she was ‘pressured’ into book release AUTHOR Harper Lee has dismissed concerns that she is being pressured into releasing a “lost” novel.

The new book, entitled Go Set A Watchman, is her first since 1960’s To Kill A Mockingbird, which sold more than 40m copies around the world.

But some have suggested the reclusive 88-year-old is being manipulated into releasing the decades-old manuscript.

Lee responded in a

statement, saying: “I’m alive and kicking and happy as hell with the reactions to Watchman.”

News of the author’s second novel was greeted with astonishment on Tuesday.

Written before To Kill A Mockingbird, it features many of the same characters, with an adult Scout Finch returning to her native Alabama from New York to visit her father.

BRUCE Jenner left out no details.

The former Olympian, who is reportedly in the midst of transitioning into a woman, was very straight forward with his children about his gender news, according to this week’s issue of People magazine.

“Bruce told them everything — where things stood, what his plans were for the future, and what everyone could expect,” an insider told the mag.

“Everyone basically knew what was up, but it was still a shock to hear it outlined so explicitly.”

So how exactly did his six children Burt, Casey, Brandon, Brody, Kendall and Kylie along with his stepkids react?

“They all came all around pretty quickly, but each of them had to process it in their own way,” the source continued.

“All they want is for him to be happy.”

Kim Kardashian reportedly

Bruce Jenner with sons Brody Jenner and musician Brandon Jenner in April 2013.

checked in with mom and Bruce’s ex Kris Jenner before coming to terms with Jenner’s changes.

“Kim went to Kris and asked her how she felt. They had a very long conversation about it,” the insider said.

“Once Kim was satisfied

that Kris was emotionally OK, she was able to give Bruce her unconditional support.”

Kim’s husband Kanye West allegedly accepted everything right away while Kourtney Kardashian’s boyfriend Scott Disick “didn’t react very well.”

Disick is now allegedly “on board” and West “believes in live and let live, and he took it all in stride.”

While Jenner hasn’t confirmed his journey into becoming a female yet himself, his mother, Esther, recently spoke out about it.

“Right now I am more proud of him for what he’s allowing himself to do,” she told Radaronline.com in an interview.

“I am more proud of him now than when he stood on that podium and put the gold medal around his neck. He deserves all the respect.”

“I just learned about” his transition, she noted. “Bruce filled me in, and we had a very long, long, long talk about it.

“I support him wholeheartedly,” she said. “I just love him like I always have. (NYDailynews)

Valentine will be celebrating two days this year, Friday February 13th and Saturday 14th February 2015. Please place your order now to avoid the rush at the Flower Girl located on Leeward Highway, we have the ideal Gift Baskets and Floral Arrangements at unbeatable prices.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 7-13, 2015

World News

UK to lead ‘high readiness’ NATO force THE UK will play a lead role in a “high readiness” NATO force that will be established in Eastern Europe, Defence Secretary Michael Fallon has announced.

Britain will send up to 1,000 troops and four RAF Typhoon jets for “air policing” in the region, he said.

The multinational force is the biggest reinforcement of NATO’s collective defence since the end of the Cold War. BBC correspondent Jonathan Marcus said the move aimed to deter a perceived Russian threat to the Baltic states.

It comes as French and German leaders headed to the Ukrainian capital Kiev to try to negotiate an end to escalating fighting in the east of the country.

Mr Fallon said NATO’s credibility in the face of the security challenges depended on “everyone playing their part” to implement decisions taken to bolster its forces at a summit of member states in Wales last year.

“Strong words must be backed up with firm action,” he said.

NATO defence ministers have gathered in Brussels to discuss the details of the “Very High Readiness Joint Task Force” (VJTF), which will form NATO’s first response in the face of aggression.

It is expected to be made up of about 5,000 troops from NATO countries, with its lead units able to deploy at two days’ notice.

The UK will be the force’s lead nation in 2017 and then on rotation

The UK will deploy four RAF Typhoon jets for “air policing” in the Baltic States.

thereafter, Mr Fallon said.

He said the UK would contribute manpower to two regional headquarters in Poland and Romania, and to force integration units in Poland, Romania and Bulgaria.

The UK will also send four RAF Typhoon jets to support the NATO’s Baltic air policing mission in 2015, he confirmed.

The Typhoons will operate alongside Norwegian aircraft between May and August 2015, with the aim of securing NATO’s airspace over Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania, which do not have their own air defence fighters.

They will operate at NATO’s request from Amari Airbase in Estonia, he said.

BBC diplomatic correspondent Jonathan Marcus said the move was aimed to reassure Nato countries

in eastern Europe and deter what is perceived as a potential Russian threat to the Baltic republics or other NATO members.

He said it was also a signal that the alliance’s political leaders and military planners now see Russia’s seizure of the Crimea and military forays into eastern Ukraine as much more than just a temporary crisis between Moscow and the West.

Fighting in eastern Ukraine began last April, when separatists seized government buildings after Russia annexed Ukraine’s southern Crimea peninsula.

More than 5,000 people have been killed in the conflict.

NATO secretary-general, Jens Stoltenberg has said that Russia continues to violate international law as fighting continues in Ukraine.

(BBC)

US anchor Brian Williams apology for Iraq helicopter story ONE of America’s most famous news anchors has apologised after a story he repeatedly told about coming under fire in Iraq was revealed to be untrue.

NBC’s Brian Williams said he was on a helicopter forced down in 2003, but veterans have now disputed his account.

Mr Williams, the most-watched network anchor in the US, has often recounted his experience but now blames the “fog of memory”.

“I made a mistake in recalling the events of 12 years ago,” he said.

“I want to apologise. I said I was travelling in an aircraft that was hit

by RPG [rocket-propelled grenade] fire. I was instead in a following aircraft.”

He said his account was “a bungled attempt by me to thank one special veteran and by extension our brave military men and women, veterans everywhere, those who have served while I did not.”

Mr Williams repeated the story as recently as Friday, describing his ordeal on TV while paying tribute to

Mr Williams, the most-watched network anchor in the US, has often recounted his experience but now blames the “fog of memory”.

a retired soldier who helped protect the grounded aircraft and crew.

His apology came after veterans who were on the helicopter that was hit posted comments on the broadcaster’s Facebook page.

Flight engineer Lance Reynolds, who was on the helicopter that was

hit, wrote: “Sorry dude, I don’t remember you being on my aircraft.

I do remember you walking up about an hour after we had landed to ask me what had happened.

In a later posting he wrote: “The place we were shot at was a long ways away from where we even saw him and his crew. “ Replying to the criticism, Mr Williams said that “constant viewing of the video showing us inspecting the impact area - and the fog of memory over 12 years - made me conflate the two”.

Mr Reynolds told the military newspaper Stars and Stripes: “It was something personal for us that was kind of life-changing for me. I know how lucky I was to survive it.”

“It felt like a personal experience that someone else wanted to participate in and didn’t deserve to participate in.”

The hashtag #chopperwhopper has now appeared on Twitter, with many contributors criticising Mr Williams and questioning whether he should stay in his job.

Don’t humiliate us, Greek finance minister tells Germany GREECE’S new finance minister Yanis Varoufakis has urged Germany not to humiliate the country over its debts.

Mr Varoufakis compared Greece’s plight with that of interwar Germany, speaking ahead of a meeting with his German counterpart.

Germany was burdened with massive debts after World War One and threatened by hyperinflation, crippling its economy.

Mr Varoufakis has been touring European capitals this week to win support for Greece’s plan to restructure its debt.

In an interview with German ARD television, Mr Varoufakis said: “I think of the countries in Europe, the Germans understand best this simple message.

“If you humiliate a proud nation for too long and subject it to the worry of a debt deflation crisis, without light at the end of a tunnel then things come to the boil.”

The comparison is likely to send a clear message to German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schauble ahead of his meeting with Mr Varoufakis on Thursday.

Germany is seen as the strongest opponent among eurozone countries to any reduction of Greece’s 323bn euro (£242bn/$369bn) debt.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has ruled out any cancellation of the debt, which is about 175% of Greece’s GDP, saying lenders had already made concessions. (BBC)

Mary Finch, a 77-year-old Alabama resident, said she used a hammer to fend off an armed intruder early Tuesday morning.

Alabama woman, 77, fights off armed home invader with hammer THOR’S got nothing on Mary Finch.

The 77-year-old Alabama woman has recalled the moment she armed herself with only a hammer while defending herself against an armed intruder this week.

The Birmingham resident said she was asleep in her home early Tuesday when she woke to a young man trying to force his way into her bedroom, WVMT reported.

Instead of cowering in fear, Finch said she moved to block her bedroom door. When that failed, she picked up a nearby hammer and got ready to fight. “’Where your money at? Where your money at? Where your money at?’” she recalled the suspect’s demands to WVTM. “I told him, ‘I don’t have any money.’”

She said she then raised the hammer to his view.

“I said, ‘If you’re going to shoot, you better shoot.’ I said, ‘I’m going to get you,’” she recalled.

Finch said she asked the man, whom she described as 17- or 18-years of age, three times whether or not he was going to fire.

When he finally made a move toward her, “I hit him on his hands, hit him on his fingers,” she said.

The coward reacted by hitting her in the side of her head with his gun.

After fleeing her home police said he tried to carjack a neighbor’s car. A struggle between him and the owner resulted in the burglar shooting the man in his leg.

That injury left Finch with one deep regret.

“I could have gotten him on the side of his head. Would have been no problem,” she said.(NYDailynews)

February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

World News

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Man accused of raping women Arizona AG’s office says prison teacher raped during fake sleep study by inmate knew the dangers of her job POLICE say around 100 women in Japan who thought they were participating in a sleep study were actually drugged and raped, their attacks recorded and sold to porn sites.

Authorities arrested 54-yearold Hideyuki Noguchi, after one of the women saw herself in a video.

Police investigated and arrested Noguchi, who now faces charges of incapacitated rape in some three dozen cases.

Authorities say Noguchi has told them the number of victims is about

100.

The assaults allegedly began in 2012 when police say Noguchi took out an ad seeking participants for a sleep study. The ad sought women from their teens through their 40s.

But authorities say Noguchi has no medical training and the study was merely a ruse to isolate women, drug them, assault them and film the attacks.

Police say Noguchi sold the videos to porn sites, making around $100,000. (CNN)

US boy, three, shoots both parents in New Mexico A THREE-YEAR-OLD American boy has shot his mother and father with the same bullet after pulling a gun from her handbag, police say.

The incident took place in a motel room on Saturday afternoon in Albuquerque in the state of New Mexico.

The toddler was apparently reaching for an iPod. The bullet passed through his father’s buttock and hit his mother, who is eight months pregnant, in the arm. Both parents are said to be recovering.

The boy’s two-year-old sister, who was also in the room at the America’s

Best Value Inn, was unhurt.

Justin Reynolds told NBC News station KOB he and his girlfriend Monique Villescas were about to order a pizza when he heard the shot.

“The next minute I realised my girlfriend was bleeding. Then I sat down and realised I was shot too.”

He called emergency services and tried to staunch Ms Villescas’s bleeding with towels.

He said: “I was more worried about my girlfriend than myself and anything else that was going on. And my son because I didn’t know if he had shot himself or not. He was shocked and crying. It was traumatising.”

THE Arizona Attorney General’s office claims a prison teacher who was brutally beaten, stabbed and raped inside a prison classroom knew that the job carried inherent risks, including being assaulted.

In seeking the dismissal of a lawsuit filed by the woman, state prosecutor Jonathan Weisbard wrote “by being placed in a classroom at the complex, the officers were not placing Plaintiff in any type of situation that she would not normally face,” according to The Republic newspaper.

“The risk of harm, including assault, always existed at a prison like Eyman,” the deputy attorney general wrote of the prison complex in Florence.

The woman claims prison staff failed to protect her in January 2014, when she was told to give a highschool equivalency test to seven convicted sex offenders in a room with no windows and no guards.

As the test-takers filed out at the end of the session, rapist Jacob Harvey lagged behind, then grabbed the teacher from behind, stabbed her repeatedly with a pen, then drove her to the floor and raped her while

Jacob Harvey, seen here with the victim’s bloood on his clothes, raped and stabbed a prison teacher at Arizona’s Eyman prison complex in January 2014. (Arizona Department of Corrections/AP)

slamming her head, she said.

She said she screamed for help several times, but no one came.

Harvey has been charged with rape and assault in the attack and is awaiting trial. Meanwhile, he continues to serve a 30-year-sentence for raping a young mother in front of her toddler.

This 10-year-old boy was given the Fredrick’s special—an old man cut.

The plane hit the transmitter tower of KCBD knocking both the station off the air and power out in the surrounding neighbourhood, before crashing into a field.

One person dead after plane crashes into Texas TV tower ONE person was killed Wednesday night when a small plane crashed into a television station’s transmitter tower in Lubbock, Texas.

The plane, a single-engine Piper PA-46, crashed about 7:30 p.m. as it approached Preston Smith International Airport, according to a statement from the Federal Aviation Administration.

The plane hit the transmitter tower of KCBD, knocking both the

station off the air and power out in the surrounding neighbourhood, before crashing into a field. Lubbock fire officials feared the tower, located just north of the station’s studio, was unstable and had the studio evacuated, CNN affiliate KCBD said.

“It is unsafe to stay in the building,” said Steve Holland, a spokesman for the Lubbock Fire and Rescue Department.

‘Old man’ hair cut for misbehaved children NEVER has a single haircut caused such a fuss.

Some call it the “Benjamin Button Special;” others the “old man” cut.

In either case, it’s supposed to be the cure for a misbehaving boy. A little bit of shame to get him back on track.

“So you wana act grown...well now you can look grown too,” Russell Fredrick posted on the Facebook page for his A-1 Kutz barbershop in Snellville, Georgia, near Atlanta.

The mother of a 10-year-old took Fredrick up on his offer. The ‘after’ photos show a boy who looks like a little old man with a pronounced bald spot.

Fredrick’s post has gone viral on

Facebook and Instagram, generating worldwide media coverage -- both cheers and jeers.

“If my kid’s grades fell, I’d do this to him, too,” said a Facebook post by Marla-Eyvette Massie.

But Samuel Thomas Duncan was not amused. “I’d rather punish a child at home and keep it a private matter than let someone else humiliate that child publicly,” he said.

Fredrick said he’s not surprised by all the attention the new coif is getting.

“Because a lot of people are at a loss of how to discipline kids, you can’t whup ‘em anymore, like we used to, as children,” the barber said.

“It works.”

U.S. District Judge Susan Bolton pointedly questioned Weisbard this week, asking how he could claim the warden and other prison officials hadn’t placed the teacher in a dangerous position.

The woman was a teacher, and was not responsible for her own security, the judge said.

“Didn’t she just do what she was required to do for her job?” Bolton asked.

The woman said she normally administered the GED exam in an open room monitored by guards. But on this day, she said, an event at the prison caused her class to be bumped to another room.

She was given only a radio, and told to summon help if she needed it.

When she tried to use it after the attack, it was not tuned to the proper frequency. Her attacker eventually let her use a phone to call for help.

(NYDailynews)

Brazilian youngster eaten by piranhas A SIX-YEAR-OLD girl has been found dead in Brazil after being surrounded and devoured by a large shoal of piranhas.

Family members said she was with her grandmother and four other children in a canoe, which capsized in a storm.

Her grandmother managed to bring the other children back into the boat, but was not able to reach the victim, named by local media outlets as Adrila Muniz.

A group of townspeople in the northern state of Para helped to search for the girl, but found her unresponsive.

The incident happened in the Maicuru River near the town of Monte Alegre on the afternoon of 27 January.

Family members told some local media that the girl may have drowned shortly after falling into the river, and could have been dead prior to being set upon by the piranhas.

Her body was taken to the morgue at a hospital in Monte Alegre, and graphic postmortem photographs show that virtually all the flesh was stripped from her legs.

Piranhas are freshwater fish with razor-sharp teeth, and travel in large shoals for protection from predators. While attacks on humans are extremely rare, they can be deadly.

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Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Brama Kumaris

Raja Yoga Meditation Centre Turks and Caicos Islands

Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101

www.bkwsu.com Email: bkpadma@bkwsutci.com

FOR SALE

February 7-13, 2015

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

FLOWER GIRL

Wanted urgently

Floral Designer

Must have thorough knowledge in the floral business with 3-5 years experience.

Call: 231-3788

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

CLASSIFIEDS 31

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Acting on behalf of Williams Construction

To work full-time salary $5.00 per hour 5 days per week accommodation and utilities provided must have an understanding of plants.

Kitchen helper

ELITE GAMING

LOOKING FOR 1

Is looking for a

IT TECHNICIAN To work 6 days per week salary $10.00 per hour.

11020

contact: 331-6076

11006

contact: 232-1473

Salary $5.00 per hour Contact: 232 1025

MECHANIC Required needed for mechanic. Must have a valid driver license from A-H. Must be able to work holiday and weekends.

Must be able to understand computer systems and programs. Ability to speak French a plus.

Applicants must call 649 946-5919 Monday to Saturday 7.45 to 5pm Pay set @ $13.00 per hour

PHARMACIST REQUIRED PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

• Bachelors Degree from a recognized University eligible to register with TCI Health Practitioners Board • Willing to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays if required • Must be highly computer literate with previous experience using dispensary management software and retail POS • Evidence of active continuing education required • Must have a pleasant outgoing personality, reliability and ability to work well under pressure • Salary commensurate with experience ranging from $35k-$40k Please email Cv to: islandpharmacy@ tciway.tc or fax: 649-946-4942 11017

laboUrers waitress To work shift.

Salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 347-6642

HENRY ONEAL WILSON IS LOOKING FOR A

CONTACT: 332-7196

KEYSE’S VARIETY STORE Is looking for a

sales person To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

events

11004

If you possess all of the above, please contact: 946-5306.

Is looking for a

Nail Technician

to work 6 days per week salary $1,200.00 per month plus commission.

contact: 231-5170

YARD MAN needed for an apartment complex in Grace Bay Must be able to speak English and be able to understand instruction tasks including maintaining sewage treatment plant only those legal residents need apply in person at Island Club Grace Bay

11024

Latoya Paul Looking for a

Labourer $6 an hour.

Cleaning and do handy work.

email: maculenebaptiste@ gmail.com 10995

E & V EQUIPMENT LIMITED

Milestone Tci is looking to hire

skilled workers

For the following specified works all worker must be able to read drawings Plumbing works fire protecting system pipe welders (copper & black steel) Hvac system/ duct works Hdpe pipe welder salary $10.00 per hour . contact: 332- 3300 between the hours of 10am-3pm 11030

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

contact: 941-8494 ISLAND SOLUTION Is looking for a

Tile Layer To work 6 days per week salary $8.00 per hour.

contact: 649-346-5064 11029

NATASHA CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients is looking to fill the following positions:

Jean Roland Estimond Domestic Worker

Salary $5.50 per hour Contact: 242-3631 or 342-4275

Johnny Phanor

Labourer

Salary $5.50 per hour Contact: 232-9578

Complete Construction Labourer Salary $5.50 per hour Contact: 231-0337

11026

Job Opportunity SENIOR SOLICITOR

A senior solicitor is required for a busy firm based in Providenciales. The successful candidate will be a qualified solicitor with at least ten years (minimum) post qualified experience primarily in litigation disciplines— commercial, corporate, construction, contentious probate, negligence, property, partnership and shareholder disputes and related matters. In addition, the successful candidate must have experience drafting and advising on commercial contracts. Excellent communication skills and ability to manage files and work independently is essential, together with requisite experience in preparation of cases to instruct counsel and direct client relationships. Experience in mediation /A.D.R will be a considerable advantage.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE • Prior experience in managing a team of minimum 10 kitchen staff and catering background • Previous experience with controlling food and labor cost, demonstration cooking, menu pricing and creation • Must be able to work flexible hours, catering events, nights, weekends and holidays Salary will be based on qualifications.

11028

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Oversee daily food preparation team, inventory control and ordering • Qualified to ensure equipment operation /maintenance • Organize special event catering

Contact: 241-5922

SALARY $5.00 PER HOUR

EXECUTIVE CHEF The Executive Chef will manage a select team achieving the highest standards of food production, while developing an appetizing menu of recipes, using quality fresh ingredients. Candidates must possess an accredited Food Handler Certification Certificate.

Salary $5.00 per hour

LABOURER

contact: 941-3016

Is looking for a

Act on behalf of 3 Brothers restaurant. Seeking a

is looking for 2

11002

Labourer

CREATIVE NAIL CARE

11024

Is looking for

C&S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

11005

Is looking for a

C & J EMPLOYMENT

Bay bistro restaurant

11009

ANGELA WILLIAMS

11025

February 7-13, 2015

Please send applications in writing with full CV to the Managing Partner, Miller Simons O’Sullivan, P. O. Box 260, Regent House West, Regent Village, Providenciales or email to mslaw@tciway.tc.

32 CLASSIFIEDS

Is looking for a

is looking for a

contact: 244-7519

contact: 246-4769

contact: 342-8360

11012

Is looking for a

HANDYMAN/ GARDENER

Must be willing to work with. Little or no supervision. Keep the building an it’s surrounding clean at all times. Hr are Monday to Friday 7-5pm

11045

11160

Bayview Motors Is currently looking to employ a

Mechanic

The individual must possess the following: . Adequate tools to perform his duties . Must be able work with little or no supervision . Must be experience using computerized diagnostic equipment . Must be a holder of automotive repair certification ASE or Equivalent . Salary commensurate with experience Please email all application to

syrmondg@bayviewmotors.com Only qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview.

Bayview Motors Ltd, P.O Box 619, Leeward Highway, Providenciales

BITE ME SPORTS FISHING

C & S PROFESSIONAL

Is looking for a

Acting on behalf of our client Leon Williams is looking for a

CASABLANCA CASINO Is looking to fill the following positions:

Waitress

contact: 231-0366

FOOTPRINT ON THE BEACH

Must be willing to work 7 days per week plus public holidays salary $6.00 per hour

Singer / Entertainer Must be able to provide entertainment service to high end guests. Must be able to sing Opera and modern songs, have their own equipment and transport. weekend work mostly.

ar@griffithsandpartners

Surveillance Manager

contact: 241-5922

Please send CV’s to: Casablanca.hr@hotmail. com or drop off at the Casablanca Casino

per week salary $6.00 per hour

T.C. INDUSTRIAL Is looking to fill the following positions:

Hernandez Employment Agency Is looking of behalf of our clients. Brennan K. Missick, BLD Group Construction, Rigby Builders, J & D Construction.

Plumbing Technician Welder Salary $16.00 per hour.

contact: 231-1205

– Salary $18.50 per hour

All candidates should have at least 3-5 years experience. Must be willing to work weekends and holidays 10994

10994

to work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour

Dealer

– Salary $12.50 per hour

Sales Lady to work 6 days 11069

laborer

Domestic Worker

11040

contact: 241-9411

11003

is looking to fill the following positions:

contact: 941-3047

To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

– Salary $9.00 per hour

Who will also Perform other Domestic chores. Salary $6.00 per Hour

To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour

Must be able to work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

STRATA PLANN

Ground keeper

SANDRA E. GARLAND

Contact: 431 4022

contact: 244-2907

Labourer

11065

TEACHER

Mrs. Martha Harris Provo Christian School P.O. Box 305 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands or email: provochristianschool@hotmail.com Deadline for applications is February 28th, 2015

week salary $5.00 per hour interested applicants can.

Is currently looking for a

Successful applicants must: • Be a committed born again Christian preferably of Baptist faith • Have a minimum qualification of a bachelor’s degree in the appropriate area • Have a degree(s) from a recognized college or university • Have a valid teacher’s certificate or diploma in education • Applications must be made in writing, along with a recent coloured photograph, current police record, health certificate and names of at least three (3) references, one being that of your church pastor to:

laboUrer

ANNIEST HAMILTON Is looking for a

laborer yardman

Invites qualified applicants for the position of:

Is looking for a

is looking for a

Domestic Worker

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

PROVO CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

CATCH THE WAVE

ARIUS JONCKA

11026

contact: 332-6502

11018

Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

AGNES SWANN is looking for the following

domestic worker HOUSEKEEPER to work 6 days per 11010

Tile Setter Maintenance Man Labourer

SPOTLESS CLEANERS

11011

is looking to fill the following positions:

PROFESSIONAL ISLAND LOOKS

11041

PASCAL REMI

February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

1 Carpenter 2 Mason 1 Painter 1 Steel Welder 1 Maid / Sitter 2 Labourer To work 6 days a week @ 5.00 USD per Hrs.

Belonger only may apply by sending a resume to:

hernandezemploymentservices.8@gmail. com dead line. January 16, 2015 10999

February 7-13, 2015

CLASSIFIEDS 33

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

General Manager

DUDLEY LIGHTBOURNE

EL RANCHO RESTAURANT

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

- Food & Beverage for immediate employment.

To work 6 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour.

CULINRIA LTD.

DIVE PROVO

contact: 331-9854

and help prep. $6 an hour.

email: maculenebaptiste@gmail.com 10997

FLAMINGO PHARMACY VACANCIES

Vitamins and Sport Nutrition Specialist - Bachelor’s degree in science, nutrition, -

Please email résumé and covering letter to info@jakarah.com Deadline for applications Feb 15, 2014. Interviews to be held for successful applicants Feb 16, 2015.

- 11067

Remuneration package commensurate with experience and qualifications

to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour

11055

contact: 246-6237

Kitchen Helper to clean dish

Waitress

Barmaid

Qualifications/Experience needed: • Degree in Hospitality Management.

• At least 6-8 years previous experience operating high end multi outlet food & beverage operations (5 star hotel experience preferable) • Preopening / Renovation / Concept Design experience in Food & beverage desired • International cuisine experiences a must (Asian Cuisines preferable) • Sound international food, wines and beverage knowledge (Food & Wine Pairing) • Menu Planning, Menu design and menu setting experience in the past is preferred • In depth knowledge of food service and handling along with hygiene knowledge • Must have experience of managing multicultural teams • Responsible for training restaurant staff • Strong Leadership Skills and Process Change experience • Experience in quality improvement and efficiency initiatives desirable • Responsible for ordering and receiving all necessary operating supplies • Maintain food and equipment inventories, and keep inventory records • Marketing skills crucial for planning, coordinating and executing various F&B Promotions for this position • Computer proficiency • Ability to review and comprehend all necessary documentation • Willingness to work any and all shifts on any and all days

Ho Meli Restaurant

11064

CH Ltd is seeking a

D.N.Y. RESTAURANT Is looking for a

- - -

health promotion or related field from an accredited university.

Ability to train and educate other team members to improve product knowledge and grow sales.

Must be a personal advocate of healthy living through nutrition and exercise.

Ability to manage social media, marketing, advertising and promotions.

40 hours per week including most Saturdays.

Basic salary from $32-40K plus performance related bonus.

Senior Pharmacist - Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in pharmacy from recognised university.

- Eligible to register with the TCI Health Practitioners Board and MPS. - At least 8 years post qualification experience.

- Proven ability to manage a busy community pharmacy.

- Experience training and managing a team of at least 8 staff.

- Excellent IT skills including use of POS and Kroll.

- Willing to work long shifts including weekends and holidays.

- Salary commensurate with experience ranging $70-75K plus performance related bonus.

Please send resume and copies of qualifications to jobs@flamingopharmacy. com. Closing date 16th February 2015. Only Belongers need apply.

11042

Kitchen helper Email us your resume culinariatci@gmail.com

11000

Salary: $5.50

Salary $20,000 $24,000 contact: Alan Jardine 946-5029

11022

Scuba Instructor

Full time maid needed

Kitchen Helper to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour

contact: 332-0771

11071

is looking for an Experienced

TANGLED

Experience Restaurant Industry. Ability to read, speak and write English must be able to remember & recite. Promote a Pleasant personality, ability to communicate with others. Must be a team player.

Waiter

– 3-5 years’ experience

Busser /Dish washer – 3-5 years’ experience

Kitchen helper/Labourer – 3-5 years’ experience

for work with Tranquility PM Ltd. Car required. Weekend and evening work a must.

Salary $6.00/hour.

Hairstylist To work 6 days

Please send CV via email to TranquilityTCI@gmail.com or drop off to PO Box 433, Providenciales.

contact: 432-1390

Is looking for a

per week salary $5.50 per hour.

11022

11044

Sunny Reef Ltd

Cook/pastry chef

– 5-7 years’ experience Must be a good team player, handle working at a fast pace. Must know how to prepare French & Indonesian cuisine.

Drop resume to Mango Reef

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

10997

34 CLASSIFIEDS WC SECURITY WILLIAMS

CONSTRUCTION

IS LOOKING FOR

February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Is looking for

BACI RISTORANTE

Y.A.3.B. CONSULTANCY

Is looking for a

Acting on behalf of our clients is looking to fill the following positions: TONY PLACE

Cosmetologist

GOLDSMITH CARIBBEAN OUTPOST LA PARAFUMERIE

Bartender Waitress

TEQUILLA BAR

SECURITY Mason OFFICER 1To work 6 days per CONTACT: 231-0242

11001

week. Salary $6.00 per hour

Contact: 347-6642

11002

SALARY $600 PER HOUR

Kitchen Helper To work 6 days per week Duties include: Dishwashing, pot washing and any other general cleaning Salary $7.00 per hour

11036

Kitchen Helper Waitress

JID BARBER SHOP

Waitress

WINKY’S CATERING

2 barbers

J.C. BEAUTY SALON Cosmetologist Salary $6.00 per hour

TRAGOS Waitress

Contact: Contact: 649-344-4540 Is looking for a

THE HELP DESK

Is acting on behalf its clients to fill the following clients. 241-7734

Barmaid To work 6 days

per week. contact: 241-5922 11037

SUMMIT CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

Clifford Ashton

- extensive tennis playing experience at league/club level (minimum) - sound knowledge and passion for the game - good all round health and fitness

Gardener To keep the hotel grounds clean. Must be able to work weekends and holidays.

Salary $5.00 per hour. Only Belonger need apply

Hours and pay: 20 - 25 hours per week, mornings and afternoons/evenings including weekends @ $9 per hour.

Contact Rey to arrange an interview on rey@tcitennis.com

IVAN BARBER SHOP

THE TURTLE COVE INN HOTEL

11014

Requirements:

THREE BROTHERS SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

Cosmetologist Barber

2 hairdressers Nail Technician

Part time Tennis Assistant Job description: - setting up and controlling equipment - collecting balls - organizing children and groups - hitting partner

Store Attendant

B’S BEAUTY BOX

TCI Tennis Academy is looking for a

Location: Provo Golf & Country Club

J & C INTERNET CAFÉ

IMPRESSIONS BEAUTY SALON

Nail Technician Cosmetologist

Contact: 941-3044

Acting on behalf of our clients Beverly Fulford and Julianna Pierre is looking for a

Sales Clerk

Waiter DJ

PEOPLE’S TELECOMS COMPANY LTD.

Contact: Ceely Rigby at 649-946-4203

11019

2 labourers

C & S PROFESSIONAL

Carpenter/Joiner – $8.00 per hour

Island Painting Painters - $8.00 per hour

Rigby Builders

Mason – $8.00, Carpenter $8, Labourer – $5.50 11032

mason

To work 6 days per week salary $7.00 per hour contact: 342-2155 11007

POSITION AVAILABLE

Audio/Video Editor Field Technician Has a vacancy for a

Main Purpose of Job:

Responsible for Preparing programs for television, advertisements, titles and graphics

QUALIFICATION AND SKILLS • Bs Mechanical Engineering. BS Information Technology. Advanced formal training in Telecommunications • Must be competent and knowledgeable and able to maintain the infrastructure – hardware and software - integral to a complex Wireless Communications Network • Must have a working knowledge of Communications, Electronics, Digital Radios, Satellite Systems, 802.xx Systems, Vehicle Location Equipment, Customer Premise Equipment, Marine Radio, Specialty Telecommunications Personal Devices

RESPONSIBILITIES: • Use measuring and diagnostic tools to test, adjust, and repair Electronic Equipment.

• Read Work Orders that describe equipment failures • Must be able to liaise with Equipment Manufacturers/Operators to resolve equipment related problems inclusive of the ability to read schematic drawings and other written specifications.

• Visit nodes and sites within a network to identify and resolve network performance issues or outages to ensure such unforeseen issues are resolved in the quickest possible time to ensure the network up-time is maintained at or near 99.999% • Perform regular maintenance work on clients Communication Devices as well as periodic work to maintain the wireless networks.

• Must be able to build and maintain secure websites and mail server systems.

• Candidate must be able to work long hours and on demand • Salary negotiable

Turks and Caicos Islander Applicants preferred.

Stubbs Diamond Plaza #66 Sibonne Rd. Unit #3 Email: kay@acltci.tc

11015

Essential Duties:

• Editing film/footage to the exact final length • Responsible for creative materials liaising with the creative team, graphic designer and the Marketing Director to ensure smooth and efficient delivery.

• Responsible for accuracy and consistency of written, visual and web materials.

• Work with various offices to produce production schedules for creative proofs and liaise with international offices.

Experience, Qualifications and Skills:

• Certificate or Diploma related to video editing • Eight or more years experience in Television Broadcasting (must possess relevant certification) with good production/trafficking skills and be able to work in a fast paced environment.

• Skilful operator of Audio/Video Editing Systems working on both online and offline materials as well as on special communication projects • Knowledge of TV, Camera, and Lighting for Quality Control, Animations • Production experience, good interpersonal skills and creative ability, good storytelling skills, a methodical mind, and ability to communicate well.

• Ability to meet deadlines and have strong organizational skills as well as an eye for detail.

• Management skills would be an asset.

• Required to work evenings, weekends and holidays Salary commensurate with experience.

Send Resumes to kay@acltci.tc or P.O. Box 230 Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. No telephone calls please.

11016

February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

ISLAND VIBES TOURS

Ideal Petroleum

Is looking for a

is looking to fill the following positions:

CLASSIFIEDS 35 JUDITH SWANN J.B.S. SALON Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Seeks to Employ:

Pump Attendant LaboUrer Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $6.00

Contact: 946-5663 11058

KITEBOARDING INSTRUCTOR REQUIRED

Applicants must be pleasant, honest, reliable and computer literate. Applicants must be willing to work on a shift basis, holidays, weekends and evenings.

Salary $6.00, $5.50 and $5.00 per hour respectively.

QUANTUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY is looking for the following persons:

Carpenters Plumbers Electricians Masons Labourers Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $6-$12 per hour.

11068

Contact: 345-8450

11046

nail technician labourer To work 6 days To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 341-9177

contact: 242-3868

NEPTUNE VILLAS Is looking for a

TCI FINANCIAL CONSULTING

11059

Seeks 1

Accountant Carpenter laboUrer To work 6 days

11058

Email Resume: petroplustci@gmail.com

contact: 231-8423

Is looking for a

To work 5 days per week salary $8.00 per hour.

per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 241-7995

RAFAEL CASTILLO Is looking for a

Domestic Worker To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

contact: 343-9537

11039

contact: 946-5306

11051

Must have at least 5 years experience salary commensurate with experience interested person should.

contact: 432-0221

11075

References must be furnished upon request. We will accept emails only of resumes with proof of certification. Must be submitted by February 20, 2015. Please also submit a copy of your resume to the Labour Department. Email: info@karammissick.com.

11073

CASHIER, PUMP ATTENDANT and CLEANER POSITIONS AVAILABLE

To work 6 days per week salary $120.00 per day

LUC ST. JEAN

The successful candidate must be IKO certified at least at Level One and must have a minimum of three years teaching experience in this area, as this individual will be actively involved in training and providing lessons in Kiteboarding to adults and children. Must also possess the ability to speak either French or Spanish, hold a valid driver's license and be in good health. Will be required to assist with assembling and lifting Kiteboarding equipment to and from the beach everyday for lessons. Must be personable, able to work unsupervised and trustworthy. Assistance will be required in website maintenance and social media administration. Salary will commensurate with experience.

PETRO PLUS/ CAICOS PETROLEUM

Captain

11050

Email resume to: evt@tciway.tc or Contact Us: 649.946.5414. Apply before: April 11, 2014

11056

To perform daily maintenance duties; light electrical, plumbing and sheetrock repairs; Painting, Light yard work, cleaning gutters and construction site. Work six days a week; including holidays and weekends. Clean Police Record and three character reference required

11054

Maintenance Worker

Richmond Hill Preparatory

Needs a kitchen helper

To cook meals for the students. The applicant should have at least 5 years' experience in preparing meals for children and be able to work under pressure.

Contact the Principal at 946-4958.

11062

TCMillwork ltd.

The Green Energy Trail Ltd. is seeking applicants for the following position:

Creative Designer

Solar Photovoltaic Installer

Architectural woodworking, Cabinetry and Design, South dock road, P.O. box 238, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

Skills Required for creative designer: Applicant must have a B.F.A in design or similar field. Individual must have ten years professional experience in interior decorating or design.

Knowledge of carpentry, joinery, cabinetmaking, faux finishing, and wood types are essential. Individual should have familiarity with island construction, importing processes and paperwork, all PC computer applications as well as proficiency in Auto-Cad, Adobe Photoshop, and Google Sketch.

Salary: $10.00 per hour

Duties: Design cabinetry, furniture, and other millshop products. Provide repair, refinishing, and faux finishing for required items. Provide custom mural and painted artworks. Consult and advise clients in a professional and courteous manner. Create on site measurements, sketches, and photography. Provide renovation and remodeling plans and carry out work needed.

Prepare all advertising and marketing materials. Style, photograph, and catalog finished projects. Prepare orders for materials in a timely and prudent manner.

Assist with daily millshop operations as needed. Must be professional and courteous.

Please send application to: tcmillwork@tciway.tc contact person: Stephan 231-4537

Applicants must be able to assemble, install, or maintain solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on roofs or other structures in compliance with site assessment and schematics. May include measuring, cutting, assembling and bolting structural framing and solar modules.

May perform minor electrical work such as current checks.

At least 5 years "hands on" working experience and NABCEP Certification is preferred although consideration will be given to candidates who have completed USSI PV-301 and up. These qualifications are requisite to be considered a suitable candidate.

Belongers only need apply. Salary commensurate to experience and qualifications.

Please send CV's to info@trail.tc 11043

11076

36

February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CEDRIC SELVER Is looking for a

MERCEDES BEAUTY SALON

Is looking for the following

NORTH CAICOS CAFÉ Is looking for a

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS GOVERNMENT

VACANCIES

The following vacancies currently exist within the Turks and Caicos Islands Public Service:

Investigative Officer (Complaints Commission)

– Grand Turk (Deadline: January 26, 2015) Salary: $48,000 per annum The Investigative Officer is responsible for receiving, investigating and resolving complaints made against Government entities. He/she will also identify potential maladministration and refer complaints to other avenues where appropriate and seek early resolution where possible and make recommendations for improvements in administration.

Nail Technician labourer Hair Dresser Must be able to

Waitress

work weekend salary $6.00 per hour.

Must be willing to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact: 241-2316

contact: 343-4440

contact: 346-3918

11035

11008

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

11038

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Director of Public Prosecutions

– Providenciales (Deadline: January 26, 2015) Salary: $125,000 per annum The successful applicant must be able to provide legal advice to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police and other Statutory Bodies in the investigation and prosecution of the full range of criminal offences, and, in particular, direct investigations, prosecutions and related proceedings in connection with serious fraud and money laundering cases.

He/She must also be experienced in the conduct of major criminal trials, including preparatory hearings and appearing as prosecuting attorney before criminal courts at all levels. The successful candidate will also be expected to procure restraint/freezing orders, tracing and recovery of property as well as conduct civil recovery proceedings under the Proceeds of the Crime Ordinance. As Director of Public Prosecutions, he/ she will be Accounting Officer for the Department and will take full responsibility for the management, development and training of the legal and support staff in the Department.

District Commissioner

– North Caicos (Deadline: January 29, 2015) Salary: $35,040 per annum The incumbent in this senior position will act as the Central Administrator for the island by ensuring adherence to rules and guidelines in the effective delivery of Government Services.

Health Research Officer

– Grand Turk (Deadline: January 30, 2015) Salary: $28,560 per annum

The incumbent in this position will assist the Chief Epidemiologist to plan, develop and implement epidemiologic and research programmes under the auspices of the National Epidemiology and Research Unit (NERU). The successful candidate will ensure the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data about health effects and risks in TCI and disseminate this information locally, regionally and internationally as appropriate to be utilized in particular to promote evidence-informed decision making in health in TCI.

Ebola Screeners

– Grand Turk and Providenciales (Deadline: January 30, 2015) Salary: $16, 200 per annum The incumbent in this position will be responsible to conduct screening of passengers entering the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) on international flights, and cruise ships, using the non-contact infrared temperature gun to identify persons with fever (101.4F) as a measure of heightened Ebola surveillance.

Statistician

– Grand Turk (Deadline: February 3, 2015) Salary: $33,360 per annum The incumbent in this position is responsible for shaping statistical information and economic policies. The incumbent also monitors socio-economic indicators with a view to evaluating economic turn-out and quality of life.

Interested persons are asked to visit www.gov.tc for job details and the application procedure.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Sous Chef

Education and Training:

• Post secondary degree in Culinary Arts or 8 + years industry equivalent experience.

• Computer literate, functional on Excel, MS-Word and Quickbooks • Fluent in English both written and oral with a fundamental understanding of French and Spanish • First Aid Training

Skill Requirements:

Be able to assist the Executive Chef in all capacities to include: • Work in a high pressure environment with calm, effective leadership • Planning and execution of special events.

• Precise knife skills • Assist Chef in the preparation and execution of all desserts.

• Produce all breakfast, lunch and dinner items with expert precision.

• Cook entire menu on the line during service, including meats to temperature specifications.

• Execute a proper sanitation procedure to insure that high quality food is served that accurately represents the Café.

• Prepare and execute specials based on the Café’s Tex-Mex cuisine.

• Be versed in a large variety of cooking techniques to include: braising, sautéing, frying, steaming, poaching, and sauce making.

• Receive food orders from various vendors, checking for quality and pricing.

• Be able to stand on ones feet for 10 hours and be comfortable lifting 50 pounds without physical restrictions.

• Be available to work holidays and weekends with a flexible schedule.

Leadership and Managerial Requirements:

• Assist Chef in the training of kitchen staff to encourage growth in a positive environment.

• Be sensitive to the needs of staff members and maintain a professional demeanor • Assist Chef in the ordering of food through a variety of vendors • Assist Chef with weekly and monthly inventory of items and work with the Chef to calculate food costs • Maintain a positive environment in the kitchen to encourage growth and diversity within the workplace The Sous Chef should be a natural leader who is seeking to assist others in improving their cooking ability, and also to develop strong people skills. An ambitious person who is a comfortable communicator with a confident skill set. The Sous Chef needs to be a self starter that can lead the kitchen in the Chefs absence. The right candidate should be able to open the kitchen in the morning, or be the last to leave the kitchen at night. Prioritizing and executing prep items based on the restaurants needs. He or She will assure that foods are properly labeled with the date and prep item name and consistently rotated, and stored for future use. Oversee and participate in daily cleaning duties as per scheduled by the Chef to maintain a clean safe environment for all employees to work in.

chefamy@somewherecafeandlounge.com

February 7-13, 2015

37

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

‘Half of UK people’ will get cancer ONE in two people in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives, analysis suggests.

Cancer Research UK said this estimate, using a new calculation method, replaced a forecast of more than one in three people developing the disease.

It said longer life expectancies meant more people would be affected.

But it was not inevitable

and improving lifestyle, such as losing weight and quitting smoking, could have a major impact, the charity added.

The good news is cancer survival figures are also rising.

The seemingly sudden jump in diagnosis estimates is down to researchers developing a more sophisticated and accurate method for analysing the risk of cancer.

The Help Desk

UNITY ONLINE SERVICES

Is acting on behalf of our clients:

Is seeking to employ a

J & W Construction Labourers, Electrician $5/$8 per hour.

However, both the new and old methods show the same long-term trend - a rise in the lifetime risk of developing cancer.

Nearly 54% of men will develop cancer, compared with just under 48% of women, the figures indicate.

Fewer deaths from heart disease and infections mean more people are living long enough to develop cancer.

But lead researcher Professor Peter Sasieni, from Queen Mary University of London, said: “It isn’t inevitable.

Breast cancer is likely to remain the most common cancer among women.

NOTICE

ER Construction (333-1199) Labourers, Electrician,Carpenter $5/$8 per hour.

Coxco Construction (Contact Labour Department) Finish Carpenter Supervisors, Carpenter $8.00.

Domestic Worker

Busy Restaurant

in Provo. 941-8408 Beach Server/, Restaurant Manager, Kitchen Helper, Dishwasher $5.00.

11070

VIVY’S RESTAURANT is looking for a

Interested candidates can contact: 2413077 for further detail regarding employment

11053

WC SECURITY IS LOOKING FOR

To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

11052

contact: 243-7318

Woodley Victorian Is looking for a

SECURITY OFFICER SALARY $6.00 PER HOUR.

CONTACT: 231-0242

11001

Kitchen Helper

ZIN CARWASH Is looking for a

nurse Labourer To help assist a blind man salary $9.00 per hour.

11048

contact: 442-5665

To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 3474252 or 344-6072 11072

GRAND CAICOS AVIATION LIMITED IS A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN SHAUN DAVID MALCOLM AND JOSHUA DAVID HARVEY.

38

February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

Ebola has mutated and could be more contagious, experts warn MORE than 22,000 people have been infected and about 9,000 are known to have died in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone since what evolved into the worst-ever outbreak of Ebola was identified last March.

Now, scientists tracking the Ebola outbreak in Guinea say the virus has mutated, and researchers at the Institut Pasteur in France are investigating whether it could

have become more contagious.

Experts are analysing hundreds of blood samples from Ebola patients in Guinea, tracking how the virus is changing, and trying to determine whether it’s able to jump more easily from person to person.

“We know the virus is changing quite a lot,” human geneticist Dr Anavaj Sakuntabhai told BBC News. “That’s important for

diagnosing [new cases] and for treatment. We need to know how the virus [is changing] to keep up with our enemy.”

Ebola is an RNA virus, like HIV and influenza, which have a high rate of mutation.

That makes the virus more able to adapt and raises the potential for it to become more contagious.

“We’ve now seen several cases that don’t have any symptoms at all, asymptomatic

cases,” Dr Sakuntabhai continued.

“These people may be the people who can spread the virus better, but we still don’t know that yet. A virus can change itself to less deadly, but more contagious and that’s something we are afraid of.”

According to Professor Jonathan Ball, a virologist at Nottingham University, it’s still unclear whether more people are actually

NOTICE

not showing symptoms in this outbreak compared with previous ones.

“We know asymptomatic infections occur… but whether we are seeing more of it in the current outbreak is difficult to ascertain,” Professor Ball said.

“It could simply be a numbers game; that the more infection there is out in the wider population, then obviously the more asymptomatic infections we are going to see.”

Another common concern raised in the BBC report was that while the virus has more time and more “hosts” to develop in, Ebola could mutate and eventually become airborne.

Fortunately, there is no evidence to suggest that is happening. The virus is still only passed through direct contact with infected people’s body fluids.

“No blood borne virus, for example HIV or Hepatitis B, has ever shown any indication

of becoming airborne. The mutation would need to be major,” said infectious disease expert Professor David Heyman.

Virologist Noel Tordo from the Institut Pasteur in the Guinea capital Conakry said: “At the moment, not enough has been done in terms of the evolution of the virus both geographically and in the human body, so we have to learn more. But something has shown that there are mutations.

“For the moment the way of transmission is still the same.

You just have to avoid contact [with a sick person].

“But as a scientist you can’t predict it won’t change.

Maybe it will.”

Researchers are using a method called genetic sequencing to track changes in the genetic make-up of the virus. So far they have analysed around 20 blood samples from Guinea. Another 600 samples are being sent to

ROSE K. TAYLOR

FRANCIS REALTY IS SEEKING A CARETAKER

is looking for a

labourer To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

11013

contact: 241-4920

The caretaker should have Strong organizational and cleaning skills, ability to perform manual labor, excellent interpersonal skills and multi-tasking.

Communicating with Manager and Supervisor on a daily, weekly or monthly basis to report on the status of properties, cleaning and maintaining the property, supervising or training a caretaking staff, and performing other duties as assigned.

Interested personnel should submit their resume to francisrealtytci@gmail.com

Full time bilingual Spa Receptionist/Nail Technician I Shaun David Malcolm hereby swear on the Holy Bible that I have not received a single penny of compensation from Mortimer Sackler, Michel Neutelings, M. Aviation or Blue Heron Aviation for the land where the new FBO was constructed.

Shaun David Malcolm

We are looking for the best experienced guest services professional with a solid sales experience and a Nail Technician License. One year previous experience in a 4* spa as a receptionist. Available to work 6 days/ week Must be bilingual, English and French, oral and written. Knowledge of a third language such as Spanish, Portuguese or Italian a plus.

Salary Base salary + commission on retail sales

Send resume to: turkoisemassage@gmail.com *Belonger only

February 7-13, 2015

39

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology the labs in the coming months, the BBC reported.

A previous similar study in Sierra Leone showed the Ebola virus mutated considerably in the first 24 days of the outbreak, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The WHO said: “This certainly does raise a lot of scientific questions about transmissibility, response to vaccines and drugs, use of convalescent plasma.

“However, many gene mutations may not have any impact on how the virus responds to drugs or behaves

in human populations.”

The research in Paris will also help give scientists a clearer insight into why some people survive Ebola, and others don’t. The survival rate of the current outbreak is around 40 percent.

It’s hoped this will help scientists developing vaccines to protect people against the virus.

Researchers at the Institut Pasteur are currently developing two vaccines which they hope will be in human trials by the end of the year.

One is a modification of

the widely used measles vaccine, where people are given a weakened and harmless form of the virus which in turn triggers an immune response. That response fights and defeats the disease if someone comes into contact with it.

The idea, if it proves successful, would be that the vaccine would protect against both measles and Ebola.

“We’ve seen now this is a threat that can be quite large and can extend on a global scale,” said Professor James Di Santo, and immunologist at the Institut.

Ocean Club Resorts is looking for qualified applicants for the position of Property Services Supervisor. All applicants must be able to present a clean Police Record if offered a position.

Wage commensurate with experience. Individuals must be willing to work holidays and weekends on a flexible schedule dictated by business demands. Please drop off resumes at the Ocean Club Front Desk to the attention of the Human Resource Manager, or via email to diane@oceanclubresorts.tc. Only those receiving an interview will be contacted.

PROPERTY SERVICES SUPERVISOR

Essential Duties:

1. Plans, organizes, and manages Property Services operations, which includes, but is not limited to: pool cleaning, beach set-up and maintenance, gardening staff, cleaning of foyers, hallways, storage areas, laundry, louvers, BBQ; spring cleans; hurricane preparation; linen pick up and drop off; assisting housekeeping staff as needed.

2. Provides leadership and vision to the property services department; coaches and supports the team; liaises with other department heads to ensure needs are met 3. Resolves customer complaints and ensures customer satisfaction 4. Assist with the inventory process –record and monitor items, receive and issue goods, manage and participate in physical inventory of amenities and linen 5. Regularly reviews processes and procedures and amends as necessary to increase productivity and improve efficiencies 6. Manages, mentors and trains staff; establishes performance guidelines; evaluates departmental/staff performance; executes disciplinary actions as necessary in consultation and collaboration with the Operations Manager/Human Resources Manager 7. Ensures property services policies and procedures are kept current and applicable, and are updated in the Housekeeping Standards of Performance manual 8. Responds to inquiries relative to property services issues, concerns, requests, procedures and projects in a timely manner 9. Ensures property services team and other departments have cohesive working relationships 10. Ensures departmental compliance with the policies, procedures and guidelines of Ocean Club Resorts and TCIG health and safety regulations; maintains logs for incident reports 11. Report any facility or equipment needs to the Operations Manager 12. Perform other duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor or any other person authorized to give instructions or assignments 13. Keep property services areas neat, tidy, organized and in compliance with TCIG health and safety regulations

Skills/Qualifications:

1. High School Diploma, plus relevant education and 3-5 years supervisory experience, preferably in a resort environment 2. Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate others 3. Thorough knowledge of property services procedures, operations and equipment, including pool & beach 4. Self-motivated and dependable with a strong work ethic and good problem solving skills 5. Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to speak, read and write fluently in English language 6. Professional appearance and demeanor 7. Current TCI Driver’s License

11078

POSITION AVAILABLE 2 Video Camera Operators

Main Purpose of Job:

Record Video Footage for News and other programmes; in studio and on location

Essential Duties:

• Select and assemble cameras, accessories and equipment to be used during filming.

• Use cameras in any of several different camera mounts such as stationary, track-mounted or crane • Test, clean and maintain equipment to ensure proper working condition.

• Maintain Footage Inventory

Skills Required:

• Extensive knowledge of cameras, lenses, and lighting, and the ability to operate cameras in different settings - such as studios and remote locations - is essential.

• The ability to stand or hold a camera for long periods of time • Working knowledge of live feed switching and distribution systems • Knowledge of editing equipment and software is also required.

• Must be able to work well under pressure, be a good communicator, and be able to work as part of a team or as an individual.

Required to work evenings, weekends and holidays Salary commensurate with experience.

Send Resumes to kay@acltci.tc or P.O. Box 230 Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands.

No telephone calls please.

40

Sports Interational

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Blatter ready to go toe-to-toe with UEFA It’s official -- world football’s controversial leader Sepp Blatter is set to enter the enemy’s lair just weeks after accusing UEFA of plotting to depose him.

The FIFA president is prepared to the risk of public humiliation in Vienna next month as he faces the three men who plan to usurp him with European governing body UEFA considering giving each candidate the chance to make their case at its congress on March 24.

FIFA confirmed to CNN that Blatter plans to be in Austria for the congress as he steps up his campaigning to retain the presidency.

With 209 federation votes at stake, the candidates will have the opportunity to influence over a quarter of them as they address UEFA’s 54 member nations at an event that would be broadcast online.

Seeking a fifth consecutive term in office at the age of 79, Blatter is facing challenges from Jordan’s Prince Ali bin Al-Hussein, Dutchman Michael van Praag and former Real Madrid and Barcelona star Luis Figo.

All three of Blatter’s opponents have declared their willingness to take part in a live debate with the Swiss, who has previously rejected such offers by claiming football should not “imitate politics.”

That’s a reference to the political debates, for example in the United States and Britain, where politicians slug it out in front of the cameras ahead of elections.

While Prince Ali has called for an open debate and Van Praag even suggested a Google hangout, UEFA is examining the possibility of giving

FIFA confirmed to CNN that Blatter plans to be in Austria for the congress as he steps up his campaigning to retain the presidency.

each candidate an allotted amount of time to outline their plans to repair FIFA’s battered image.

The world governing body’s reputation has been dragged through the mud by the furor over alleged corruption surrounding the bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.

That criticism reached a fever pitch when the man brought in by FIFA to investigate, U.S. lawyer Michael Garcia, resigned in protest last year, unhappy that his published summary did not accurately reflect his findings.

While an actual debate is unlikely at this stage, the opportunity for Blatter’s opponents to speak to congress and potentially highlight the incumbent’s failings right in front of him could potentially prove embarrassing to the Swiss.

Speaking at his campaign launch

in London on Tuesday, Prince Ali threw down the gauntlet to Blatter, suggesting an open debate between candidates should take place.

“If we are talking about transparency, I would like to see, at least before the elections a public debate, including the incumbent,” Prince Ali said.

“If we talk about reform, proper reform, I’m not confident I’ve seen it. He’s had the chance to do it,” added Prince Ali referring to Blatter.

“We’ve also had promises from him that he would not run again.

He has been the president and, definitely, the president needs to be held responsible for what happens.”

Both Prince Ali and Jerome Champagne, who failed to gain the required number of backers to qualify for the election, have been scathing over FIFA’s image in recent days.

February 7-13, 2015

Sailing water pollution a concern but golf ‘on course’ ORGANISERS of the Rio 2016 Olympics admit they are “concerned” about water pollution in the sailing venue, but say the Games will be delivered “on time”.

About 48% of sewage pumped into the Guanabara Bay is untreated, while illegal dumping is a big problem.

Last month government officials stated they would miss their target of an 80% reduction in water pollution by the start of the Olympics next August.

“There is a huge problem with garbage,” Mario Andrada told BBC Sport.

The Rio 2016 director of communications continued: “It [the state of the sailing venue] is a concern because the water is not fully clean, but it will be safe for the Olympics.”

Last year, International Olympic Committee (IOC) vicepresident John Coates claimed Rio was the “worst” prepared host city he had ever seen.

Olympic sailors also complained about floating debris and even dead animals found in the water when they competed in the Rio test event last August, and drug-resistant “super-bacteria” were found in December.

However, Andrada insists the IOC is pleased by their progress and that significant improvements have and will continue to be made regarding the condition of the Rio waters.

“People ask ‘why don’t we moved the venue?’. If we don’t clean the bay now then it never will be and this is a legacy commitment to Rio,” he said.

Lobbyists claim reducing

water pollution is one of many promises organisers have broken, and Giselle Tanaka from the People’s World Cup and Olympics Committee believes people will take to the streets to protest as they did ahead of last year’s football World Cup. She told BBC Sport: “The general feeling is that the people of Rio will be worse off after the Games and I believe people will protest because they are unhappy.

“We are so close to the Olympics now that they have other priorities to get the sports venues ready - so we know none of the social or environmental legacy investments will be made.”

The group and fellow lobbyists Golf for Who? took the development of the Olympic golf course to court in a bid to halt the work on a nature reserve.

However, Games organisers won the initial round and they foresee no further delays on the site where many of the holes are nearing completion.

“It is impossible with this kind of event and renovation to have 100% of people happy and enthusiastic,” said Municipal Olympic Company president Joaquim Monteiro.

“People have the right to complain and argue but we are using the Games to transform Rio and after the Olympics the golf course will be open to the public and be wonderful facility for Rio.” The city will host 22 test events in 2015, with a further 20 in the months leading up to the Olympic Games opening ceremony on 5 August 2016.

Africa Cup of Nations: Tunisia face ban after refusing to apologise TUNISIA face being banned from the next Africa Cup of Nations after refusing to apologise for accusing the Confederation of African Football (Caf) of cheating.

They made the allegations after conceding a controversial stoppagetime penalty in a 2-1 defeat by Equatorial Guinea in the quarter-finals.

The game’s referee has been banned for six months for “poor performance”.

Tunisia had until Thursday to say sorry or face a ban from the 2017 edition.

After a meeting on Wednesday, the Tunisian FA refused to apologise with a spokesman saying the team had “suffered scandalous injustice from referees”.

Caf, which fined Tunisia after players confronted referee Rajindraparsad Seechurn after the final whistle, had wanted the 2004 champions to apologise for “insinuations of bias and lack of ethics against Caf and its officials, or to present irrefutable evidence to substantiate the accusations”.

African football’s governing body said it had been sent two letters by the Tunisian FA after the match, with the second asking for an investigation and suggesting Caf and its officials “were questionable and biased against Tunisia in general”.

Caf fined Tunisia $50,000 (£33,000) for what it termed “the aggressive attitude of some supporters in the stands, invasion

of the pitch after the final whistle by players and substitutes of the Tunisian team - insulting the referee of the match and trying to physically assault him - and the regrettable behaviour of the president of the Tunisian Football Federation, Wadie Jary”.

The Tunisian federation was also ordered to pay for damages after their players broke a changing-room door and a fridge.

The ugly scenes came after Mauritian referee Seechurn had awarded the penalty in stoppage time when Ali Maaloul was harshly ruled to have fouled Ivan Bolado when Tunisia were leading 1-0 and, after equalising from the spot through Javier Balboa, hosts Equatorial

Tunisia players confront the referee Rajindraparsad Seechurn after losing their quarter-final soccer match of the 2015 African Cup of Nations against Equatorial Guinea in Bata January 31, 2015.

Guinea went on to win in extra time.

Equatorial Guinea face Ghana on Thursday for a place in Sunday’s

final against Ivory Coast.

Qualifying for the 2017 tournament starts in June. (BBC)

February 7-13, 2015

Sports Interational

41

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Williams returns to Indian Wells 14 years after racist abuse The New England Patriots rallied by from 10 points down to win their fourth Super Bowl title.

Super Bowl XLIX:

Brady stars in fourth quarter as New England Patriots win thriller TOM Brady threw four touchdown passes to lead the New England Patriots past the Seattle Seahawks 28-24 in a sensational Super Bowl XLIX. Brady led a fourth-quarter comeback from the Patriots to secure a fourth Super Bowl ring, but it still took a last-gasp interception from Malcolm Butler to deny the defending champions victory in Glendale, Arizona.

The game proved to be an absolute thriller, with the Patriots leading 14-7 before giving up 17 unanswered points and then regaining their momentum in the last 15 minutes.

Brady, who was making his sixth Super Bowl appearance, was in almost irresistible form in the opening quarter, bar an interception made by Seahawks nickel back Jeremy Lane, who suffered what appeared to be a serious arm injury at the end of what turned out to be his last play of the game.

The Patriots used a dink-anddunk short-passing game to good effect but it took them until the 9:47 mark in the second quarter to open the scoring when Brady found Brandon LaFell from 11 yards for a touchdown.

Tom Brady threw four touchdowns in a 28-24 victory over reigning champions the Seattle Seahawks to be awarded the Super Bowl MVP Once the scoring started points came frequently, especially in the last three minutes of the half, as Marshawn Lynch first dived over from three yards to level the scoring for Seattle.

Brady linked up with Rob Gronkowski from 22 yards to quickly put the Patriots back in front 14-7, but Russell Wilson managed to engineer a Seahawks scoring drive in only 29 seconds, his touchdown pass hauled in by Chris Matthews, who was picked up from a job in a sports store less than a year ago.

SERENA Williams is ending her Indian Wells boycott in a spirit of “forgiveness” 14 years after suffering racist abuse at the Californian resort’s showpiece tennis tournament.

World No.1 Williams, who won the Australian Open with victory over Maria Sharapova in Melbourne last month, announced her decision -- explained in an exclusive interview with TIME magazine -- on Twitter.

Back in 2001, age 19, she lifted her second Indian Wells trophy by beating Kim Clijsters -- but she and her family were racially abused by some members of the crowd after sister Venus withdrew from their semifinal with an injury.

That sparked accusations from some that their father, Richard, was “fixing” games between the two. He later said the abuse the family had suffered during the final “shamed America.”

His daughter told TIME he “had to sit and watch his daughter being taunted, sparking cold memories of his experiences growing up in the South.”

She instantly vowed never to return to the scene of her first-ever professional victory, in a doubles match with Venus in 1997, but revealed that she now felt ready to go back and compete in the BNP Paribas Open, being played in March.

“I’m fortunate to be at a point in my career where I have nothing to prove,” Williams explained. “I’m still as driven as ever, but I play for the love of the game.

Serena Williams had boycotted the event after racial abuse by some members of the crowd in 2011.

“It is with that love in mind, and a new understanding of the true meaning of forgiveness, that I will proudly return to Indian Wells in 2015.”

The 33-year-old said a feeling that attitudes in tennis had progressed had helped to make up her mind, citing the prompt action taken by the Women’s Tennis Association and United States Tennis Association when she and Venus were victims of racist and sexist comments made by a Russian official last year.

“I have thought about going back to Indian Wells many times over my career,” Williams said. “I said a few times that I would never play there again. And believe me, I meant it. I admit it scared me. What if I walked onto the court and the entire crowd booed me? The nightmare would start all over.”

She said it had been “difficult for me to forget spending hours crying in the Indian Wells locker room after winning in 2001, driving back to Los Angeles feeling as if I had lost the biggest game ever -- not a mere tennis game but a bigger fight for equality.”

“Emotionally it seemed easier to stay away,” she explained. “There are some who say I should never go back. There are others who say I should have returned years ago.

“I understand both perspectives very well and wrestled with them for a long time. I’m just following my heart on this one.”

Her decision was welcomed by tournament CEO Raymond Moore, who confirmed that she had accepted a wild card for the event. “We really look forward to watching her compete again,” he said. (CNN)

ICC World Cup 2015: Australia favourites to win despite Clarke doubts RANKED number one in the world going into the tournament on the back of an impressive Tri-series

triumph over India and England, cohosts Australia are the unsurprising favourites to clinch a fifth World

Michael Clarke poses with the World Cup trophy alongwith former Aussie captains who won the trophy for the nation.

Cup. With the most feared fast bowler in world cricket in Mitchell Johnson and a batsman in careerbest form in Steve Smith, the Australians have the firepower with both bat and ball to go deep into the tournament.

Johnson will spearhead an otherwise youthful attack on pacefriendly decks and Smith, while no longer considered an all rounder, is one of a handful of players in the squad who can turn their hand to both batting and bowling at the top level.

With other potential matchwinners like David Warner and Glenn Maxwell in the side and batting running right down the order, the Australians will go into the tournament brimming with confidence.

There are a few clouds on the horizon, however, not least the prospect of starting the tournament without Captain Michael Clarke because of his troublesome

hamstrings.

There have been suggestions that some in Cricket Australia have decided he is expendable given the strict injunction that he be fit to play without restriction by the time the team face Bangladesh in Brisbane in their second match on Feb. 21.

With a tournament format essentially designed to ensure that none of the major test-playing nations go out at the group stage, he might have been given more time to prove his fitness.

The 33-year-old’s 7,762 ODI runs at 44.86 would make him indispensable for any country with title pretensions and that is before you consider his shrewd tactical leadership and experience of winning the World Cup in 2007.

More concerning, perhaps, is the return of the whispers that Clarke is a divisive figure, accusations that dogged him in his early days as captain but disappeared on the back of his success and impressive leading role in the mourning of

Phillip Hughes.

If he fails to meet the deadline then Vice-captain George Bailey should step up to lead the side, although the bandwagon backing new media darling Smith has considerable momentum.

Smith’s recent form has been extraordinary, six centuries in his last 10 outings in test and ODIs, but a row over the captaincy is a distraction the squad do not need.

The abdominal injury to James Faulkner is another blow, ruling the pace-bowling all rounder out for the start of the campaign at least.

If there is a lack of balance in the squad, it is the absence of a top quality spinner with Australia looking likely to rely on part-timers in several matches.

Xavier Doherty was selected ahead of test spinner Nathan Lyon and if he does not get much match time, that could impact on Australia’s run rate management and ability to control their opponents’ scoring rate in the middle overs.

42

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 7-13, 2015

2014 Year in Review November - December

Clement Howell High School ‘A’ team successfully defended their PABA High School Basketball League title.

Angelo Garland has been excellent on and off the field.

Garland receives high academic honour

TCI’s national 400M record holder Angelo Garland made the Athletic Director Honour Role in his first year at the Texas A&M University Corpus Christi.

Garland, who has all the 400M

records in the TCI: the outdoor, indoor and junior, was pleased with the recognition, although he was peeved that he missed the Dean’s list by .1. The youngster who is studying kinesiology (the scientific study of human movement) finished his first year with a 3.5 GPA.

Billy Forbes (with hands in the air front row) celebrates with his team.

He said that he was one of just four freshman sprinters selected. The others were members of the 4X400M team that broke the school’s record with a gold medal finish.

earlier this year, ruled the female division. Both athletes competed in the 30-and-over category in the event which started at the Bight Park on November 16.

Redmond continues dominance in sprint triathlon -Jadot also outstanding

PABA High School Basketball League: CHHS Eagles defend title

DAN Redmond once again proved that he is the toughest athlete based in the Turks and Caicos Islands when he powered his way through three gruelling events to cross the finish line ahead of all other competitors.

The Provo based athlete defended his title in the TCI Triathlon Sprint Challenge, while Catherine Jadot, who won the inaugural British Caribbean Bank/Yoshi Sushi Road Circuit Race Mountain Bike Division

THE CLEMENT Howell High School Eagles bounced back from a six-point deficit after the first quarter to edge out the Turks and Caicos Institute of Professional Studies (TCIPS) Lions in the Provo Amateur Basketball Association (PABA) High

School Basketball Development League final mid-November.

In a ding-dong battle the Lions came out on top with a 17-11 point lead after one, but the Eagles chipped away at the points and in the end managed to outscore their rivals 52-51 to take championship honours.

Wahoos win Autumn Mixed Tag League

THE BCB Wahoos retained their title in the 2014 Autumn Mixed Tag League sponsored by Blue Haven when action concluded last

Mr. Triathlon, Dan Redmond, was out of the water in 12:24.3 minutes after the ½ mile swim. (Photo compliments of TCI Triathlon Challenge Series Facebook page)

February 7-13, 2015

43

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

2014 Year in Review November - December

The BCB Wahoos once again defended their Mixed Tag League title. (Photo by Lloyd Inwards)

Thursday at the Meridian Field in Providenciales.

In the final Wahoos dominated with an 11-1 win over Nuff Said.

Wahoos had defeated Uptown 15-2 in the semi-finals while Nuff Said booked their final spot with a 20-9 win over the Meridian Marauders.

In the Bowl final the Marauders defeated Uptown 15-5, while in the Shield final CASL Seals of Doom edged out the Vix Tipsy Turtles 11-9 and the BCQS Jolly Ranchers got the best of Trail Red Mist 16-14 in the Plate final.

Forbes scores as Scorpions lifts first NASL Soccer Bowl trophy

NATIONAL forward Billy Forbes led the San Antonio Scorpions to the NASL Championship trophy after scoring against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers at the Toyota Field in San

Antonio in mid-November.

In the championship game it came down to a Forbes’s goal in the 75 minute which sealed the 2-1 win.

Scorpions coach Alen Marcina called Forbes’s goal “beautiful”.

The 22-year-old, who was nominated as the NASL Young Player of the Year and who led the league in assists, said that he picked up his pace in the second half after a relatively slow start.

Forbes, who has been outstanding in his first season for the club, said that everyone congratulated him and told him “how good he has been all season” and how they were expecting him to do well in the final.

DECEMBER BWIC Spartans storm to School basketball title

THE British West Indies Collegiate

(BWIC) Spartans marched to their inaugural high school basketball title in text book fashion mid-December when they played undefeated in the Provo Amateur Basketball Association (PABA) organised National High School Seven-team Double Elimination tournament at the Gus Lightbourne Sports Centre in Providenciales.

With precision and teamwork they outscored the HJ Robinson High School in each quarter of the final to win the title via a score of 64-53.

Nothing can be taken away from runners up HJ, who also played an outstanding tournament. Both teams had their share of wins in the tournament, but in the championship clash the Spartans led by power forward Quinn Higgs were able to score at key intervals.

Higgs, who was later named the Most Valuable Player, just missed a double-double with 15 points and nine boards. He also made four

Acting General Secretary, Candia Ewing presents the Senior MVP award to Christma Jean-Louis.

assists, three steals and one block.

Shooting guard Stuart Ewing, who showed quick hands, made five steals to go with 13 points, while point guard Lawrence Saintange made four steals, pulled down three boards and made eight points. Also in the thick of things was bench player Myrohn Pereira, who scored five consecutive points towards the end of the first half, including a three-pointer. He finished with nine points, 10 rebounds and three steals.

For HJ the powerful Stenly Jean led the attack with a game high 17 points and 14 boards, two blocks and two steals. Captain of the side small forward Jawan Williams was also in double figures. He scored 14 points, eight boards, two blocks and two steals.

Women’s Speed Soccer: Jean-Louis wins Senior MVP award The BWIC head coach Keith Cox Sr. (left) and his team celebrate the title win after an unbeaten tournament. (Photo Gertrude Saunders-Forbes)

EARTHBENDERS’ Christma JeanLouis was named the Senior MVP for the recently concluded Women’s

Speed Soccer League which was played at the TCIFA National Academy ground in late November 2014.

Jean-Louis was instrumental in leading her team to championship honours. Also headlining the award ceremony was the Flamingos’ Enie Jean-Louis who copped the Playerof-the-Season prize.

Other awardees included veteran player Joan Whent who led the way in scoring and Christina Louisy who was named the Junior MVP. In the final clash Earthbenders, who could not be caught, tied with Net Rockers FC to finish with a total of 18 points. The second placed Net Rockers ended on 12, while Wildcats (a team which consists of senior players and also new participants with no playing experience) held onto third place with 10 points. Taking fourth and fifth places respectively were Flamingos and Pelicans (these teams consisted of TCIFA under-15 girls). At the bottom of the chart for 2014 was Windblowers FC.

44

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 7-13, 2015

National rugby player Laing selected to Canadian province team

Alyssa Laing will represent the Canadian province in her third sport after stints in hockey and football.

The 2015 champions, the MBHS Lady Bugs, with hardworking coach Camiko Lewis, collect the championship trophy from TCI Softball Federation executive member Paula Virgil-Stubbs.

SEVENTEEN year-old national rugby player Alyssa Laing has been selected to represent the Canadian province Newfoundland and Labrador Women’s U18 team in the Eastern Sevens Championships in July in New Brunswick.

Alyssa was described as a key member of the TCI Women’s team by the TCIRFU. She represented the TCI at the NACRA 7s tournament in Mexico in December last and has seemingly made an impression.

“TCI Public Relations Officer Paul Collis said: “Alyssa is a fine athlete and excels in many different sports. She has a great attitude, good work ethic and a lot of skill. Being selected to play in the Eastern 7s tournament is just reward for her

hard work and dedication to rugby.

We are confident that many of our women national team players will be selected for these kinds of tournaments in the near future.”

Laing, who migrated to the TCI two years ago from Canada, has represented the Canadian province twice in the past in football and hockey.

“I feel very honoured to get to go back home to represent Newfoundland and Labrador for the third time. It’s a great opportunity to advance my rugby skills and play at a higher level. I’m very excited and I hope the teammates on the NL squad are just as friendly as the women I play with now,” the ‘A’ levels British West Indies Collegiate student stated.

BWIC almost came from behind to win the title.

(Photos by Gertrude Saunders-Forbes)

Marjorie Basden win high school softball thriller MARJORIE Basden High School (MBHS) Lady Bugs took home the Inter-High School Softball title after a thrilling win over the British West Indies Collegiate (BWIC) last weekend at the National Stadium in

Providenciales.

The South Caicos school rallied early, but a great comeback by the BWIC almost took the championship game in another direction.

The eventual winners, who had

won the first clash, led 6-3 after the first innings, they maintained that lead and rallied to 13-5, but BWIC never gave up and battled hard. In the end, they were however one run behind 13-12.

BWIC PE Teacher Mr Fielding said that the BWIC team spirit throughout the tournament was faultless. “The team has a real mix of senior and younger students which bodes well for future years.”

MBHS girls also dominated the individual awards.

Raymond Gardiner and the Turks and Caicos Institute of Professional Studies (TCIPS) also took part in the tournament.

February 7-13, 2015

Sports National

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Williams’s PB run breaks Bolt’s 2008 meet record TCI BORN Delano Williams is answering his critics on the track.

And his first feat was a statement!

He shaved more than a second off of his old mark in the 400M and in the process broke a seven-year-old record previously held by the current fastest man in the world Usain Bolt.

At the Queens/Grace Jackson Track Meet last Saturday at the National Stadium in Jamaica, Williams stormed to 46.20s to win the Open 400M under the banner of his adopted track nation Great Britain.

He eclipsed his previous record of 47.51s attained last February.

Bolt, who has dominated in the shorter sprints, had held the meet record from 2008 when he won the event in 46.94s.

LOTS TO PROVE The 21-year-old former Munro College student had a lot to prove in his opener; especially since he switched coaches in the latter part of last year. He opted to return to

boyhood coach and mentor Neil Harrison over renowned Racers Track Club coach Glen Mills.

Williams is hoping that this start can progress to an outstanding season. Prior to the race he informed the Weekly News that he was “well prepared”.

“It was something good to start off the season with. I’m more confident than last year and am looking forward for a better season than the previous one,” the national 100M and 200M records holder said after the race.

CONGRATULATIONS Initially the former World Junior 200M gold medallist had no idea he broke the record, but the congratulations soon poured in from the ‘Beast’ Yohan Blake, Mills and a number of other big names.

The Grand Turk born said that he and his coach are working hard “towards “getting back in the world ranks and running some fast times”.

Delano Williams is looking to make his mark on the world stage this year.

Otuonye wins bronze after a solid performance in long jump opener NATIONAL long jump record holder Ifeanyi Otuonye is excited about his 2015 long jump season after jumping 7.43M in his first attempt at the Nee Mexico Team Invitational in New Mexico last weekend.

His leap, which was not far away from his personal best (7.50M), brought him third place in the meet.

The multiple records holder (relays, outdoor long jump, indoor 300M, indoor long jump and indoor triple jump), who broke Darian

Caicos Cup rugby moves to GT GRAND Turk will look to avenge their loss against Providenciales this weekend when the returning leg of the Caicos Cup is held in the capital island.

Grand Turk males suffered a big loss to Provo in January, but will be confident that they can turn

the tides when the games continue under lights at the Parade Ground on Friday and on the beach by White Sands on Saturday.

The Meridian Financial Group and Olympic Construction have been instrumental in making this inaugural event possible.

Forbes’s 2006 200M indoor record by converted time the week before at the DeLoss Dodds Invitational Meet, has had a dream start to his season and he is excited about the possibilities.

“It was great long jump season opener…still going, thanks to God.” REALLY CONFIDENT The Kansas State University student said that he was more excited about his fouled jumps.

“I feel really confident moving forward into the season for the long jump, the 7.43M I jumped was good, but I was more excited about the ones I fouled, they were really far. As soon as I actually get it right, great things will happen.”

Another plus for Otuonye was that he used 16 steps instead of the regular 18 in his attempts (coach’s decision). A longer run off later in the season could get more distance.

Ifeanyi Otuonye jumps 7.43m (a third place finish) in his first attempt in his long jump opener.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 7-13, 2015

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February 7-13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 7-13, 2015