TCWN March 7 - 13, 2015

Weekly News Volume 29 | No. 10 | March 7 - 13, 2015

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Turks and Caicos

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INCREASED GOV’T SPENDING

The much touted ‘people’s budget’ for the 2015/2016 financial year (FY) was on Thursday (March 5) laid on the table of the House of Assembly with significant increases in spending by the PNP Government. PAGE  5

Students of Oseta Jolly were thrilled this week when Sesame Street’s favourite blue monster, Grover showed up for story time

Kaziah Burke’s murder trial begins PAGE  4

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TCI to get nearly $30m for education and business PAGE support from EU  8

‘A great and envious position’ – Past successes and future plans set out in throne speech

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 7 - 13, 2015

March 7 - 13, 2015

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March 7 - 13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Kaziah Burke’s murder trial begins BY DELANA ISLES THE TRIAL of Cortez Simmons for the brutal slaying of Kaziah Burke on April 13, 2013, began on Tuesday (March 3) before Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale in a Providenciales Supreme Court. Attorney Evans Welch, popular defence lawyer in Trinidad and Tobago has been specially appointed to prosecute the case for the Crown. Roy Ledgister, senior partner with Ledgisters Solicitors in the United Kingdom, is defending Simmons. On Tuesday, the Chief Justice empanelled a 12 member jury and on Wednesday, Evans presented his case to the 12. Welch told the court that no direct testimony from eye witnesses will be presented during the trial, but there will be significant circumstantial and other evidence that will implicate Simmons in the shooting death of Burke. In his opening statements, Welch told the jury how on the night in question, Burke parked his car at Uncle Dough Bar’s on Airport Road in Providenciales and proceeded inside where he sat down at a table at about 8pm. The court heard that while seated there, someone approached him, produced a gun and proceeded to shoot in Burke’s direction. Burke then stood up and began to retreat with the gunman following him, all the while shooting at Burke. The now deceased man continued his retreat outside of the bar, where he eventually fell in the passageway between the bar and the neighbouring

building. The gunman continued to stalk him to where he had fallen, firing three more shots into Burke. Evans told the court that the pathologist later determined that Burke succumbed to the multiple gunshot injuries at the spot where he had fallen. He said that scenes of crime officer, Randy Ellis went to the scene on the night of and the morning following the murder. The prosecutor said that Ellis will testify and produce photographs during the trial of spent shells he retrieved from the scene. He said the shells were found on the eastern side of the bar, eventually leading to where Burke’s body was found. Evans stated that the shells, which were later determined to be .40 calibre, told a tale of the pursuit to kill Burke. He also told the jury of a shooting incident that took place at the Digicel cinema on Leeward Highway on March 17, 2013, in which the same gun that was used to kill Burke was fired. Evans told the court that the forensic evidence from the murder scene and the Digicel shooting were sent off for analysis in the United States at the same time. He said the ballistics expert who analysed both pieces of evidence, was able to determine that the same gun was used in two incidents. WITNESSES The court is set to hear testimony from the person who fired the gun at the Digicel cinema.

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

Evans said this individual will explain how he came to fire the gun. Evans told the jury that an important aspect of the witness’ testimony is that he knows Simmons and that the accused was on the scene of the Digicel shooting. The witness will also testify that Simmons was initially in possession of the gun at the cinema, but that he took it from Simmons and discharged it at the scene. The court is also expected to hear testimony that after firing it, the witness returned it to Simmons, in whose possession it was last seen. The prosecutor told the jury that they will hear further testimony of a relationship of ‘bad blood’ between the accused and Burke, and that a witness will give evidence of incidents between the two men. He also stated that another aspect of the evidence the Crown will present is of a white Tacoma truck with significant descriptions, which Simmons regularly drove during the time of Burke’s murder. Further evidence will be presented that the white Tacoma truck was seen badly parked on the compound east of the bar where the shooting took place. The court will also hear testimony and see video evidence that the white Tacoma truck was seen driving away from the direction of the New Era gas station towards Max’s Mini Mart with its lights off, until it turned into the street leading to Kew Town. The prosecution is also expected to produce police testimony that shortly after the shooting, officers

Kaziah Burke

visited Simmons’ home but did not find him there. However, during another visit in the morning, he was found at home and was subsequently arrested and his truck seized.

Further evidence will be provided that the accused along, with someone else, drove to a secluded spot in the Discovery Bay area following the continued 

Investment agency to become operational this year THE NEWLY reformatted Invest Turks and Caicos Agency is slated to open its doors following the passage of 2015/2016 Budget, in which allocations have been made for its establishment. This is according to Minster of Finance, Washington Misick during a recent interview with the Weekly News. The budget for the new financial year, which starts on April 1, was presented to the House of Assembly on Thursday (March 5) and will be debated soon by members. Formerly, the agency existed under the Finance Ministry, but has since been extracted and

will now function as a separate statutory body. The minister said that the Government is already in the process of identifying the board of directors and a chief executive officer for the agency. “Given the way things are, it is not going to open its doors the first day of April; until the budget is passed, it is not empowered to spend any money. “So once the budget is passed, it may be about a 90 day phasing in, so I would expect it would be up and running under its own umbrella by the end of the first quarter,” Misick revealed. The minister had previously told the press that with the new

agency, the Government will be sharpening its act as it relates to inward investment. “We will have a dedicated, sort of a one stop shop that would focus on promotion, for direct inward investment but also promotion of local entrepreneurial initiatives.” Last December 18, the assembly passed the Invest Turks and Caicos Agency Bill, making way for the formation of the agency. The intention of the new law and body is to encourage more investment into the Islands and promote both foreign direct and domestic investment with as little hassle as possible. (DELANA ISLES)

March 7 - 13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

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Gov’t spending increased in 2015/2016 Budget BY DELANA ISLES THE MUCH touted ‘people’s budget’ for the 2015/2016 financial year (FY) was on Thursday (March 5) laid on the table of the House of Assembly with significant increases in spending by the PNP Government. The presentation came shortly after the ceremonial opening of the third session of the tenth legislature of the House in Grand Turk. The budgeted expenditure of $224.7 million is a nine percent increase over the 2014/2015 FY, with proposed tax cuts, investments in education and infrastructure as well as the delivery of $13.4 million surplus. Minister of Finance Washington Misick, who spoke with the press on Monday (March 2) ahead of the Thursday presentation, noted that the new budget has been designed to support further economic growth in the Turks and Caicos Islands. “As an example, we are proposing to allow the airport and ports authorities to retain their surpluses, rather than paying them to Government, so that they can invest them in upgrading South Caicos Airport and the South Dock

harbour facility in Providenciales, respectively.” He added: “We have set a course that sees us continuing to reduce our debt obligations, while also looking for opportunities to make a real difference in people’s lives.” The minister stated that by February 2016, the Government expects that the debt will be as low as $16 or $15 million. “We are in talks with lenders. The Permanent Secretary of Finance and the debt advisor just came back from a trip to Trinidad talking to banks and insurance companies. “And of course we have our own local banks, through their parent companies that are interested in providing debt financing for Government.” He said that the Government will of course negotiate the best deal it can. “So anybody bidding has to be competitive.” Some of the key features in the new budget include a 50 percent reduction in the cost of business licences, which Misick said is a step towards what the Government intends to be a simplification of the whole process.

Finance Washington Misick

The removal of the 7.5 percent freight insurance tax which is applied to nearly all goods that are imported to the Islands. Others include an additional four staff to expedite the processing of work permits, an additional $1 million for scholarships for Islanders, including $250,000 to help civil servants complete personal and professional development activities, improved terms and conditions for public sector workers with the implementation of the pay and grading review, and the accelerated $2 million completion of the new Long Bay Hills high school in time for the new school year in September.

Kaziah Burke’s murder t ...

shooting, where he and the other person slept until the next morning before returning home.

TESTIMONY On Tuesday, Officer Kevin Clarke, who was in 2013 attached to the Information Technology Department of the police force, walked the court through the video footage obtained from CCTV camera from Max’s Mini Mart. The video showed people becoming alarmed and then a white Tacoma driving away from the gas station area with its light off, and then being turned on as the truck turned into the road to Kew Town. On Wednesday afternoon,

Lavardo Ewing, who owns a store across the street from the bar, testified. He told the court that he was closing up his shop when he heard several explosions, after which he saw a black truck and then white Tacoma driving away from the gas station area. He told the court that he knows of only two white Tacoma trucks in Providenciales, one of which is owned by Simmons. He testified that he was able to identify Simmons truck because of the dark tint. On cross examination – the defence questioned Ewing about his employment and subsequent firing by Simmons’ father, who owns Tropical Shipping where he

continued 

was employed. The defence suggested that Ewing is trying get back at Simmons for the dismissal. On Thursday, another witness, Gerard Forbes testified that he saw Burke at the bar before he left to get a Coca Cola from the gas station next door. He told the court that shortly after he got to the service station, the gas station attendant ran back inside saying there was shooting next door. Forbes then went back to the bar, where he called 911 after he saw what had transpired. Testimony continues before the Chief Justice, and the trial is expected to conclude on Friday, March 13.

Increases and decreases over the 2014/15 budget In the new budget there is a 3.4 per cent increase in the allocation for the Ministry of Health, Agriculture and Human Services, which is now $60.7 million. Misick noted that the increase in the allocation will be going towards improving primary health care, particularly in the unserved islands - South Caicos, Middle and North Caicos – as well to the expansion of primary healthcare in Providenciales. He said primary healthcare centres will be created in these islands with a more efficient set up so that people can receive adequate care. Another increase will be going to the Ministry of Education, Youth and Library Services which is now $33.2 million, representing a 27 percent increase over the previous year’s allocation. In addition to the scholarship funding, an additional $500,000 has been allocated to the TCI Community College, and $250,000 for upgrading public sporting facilities in Greenfield and some of the other islands, the minister said. The Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning has been allocated $21.8 million, which is a 32.7 percent increase. This allocation includes $2.9 million for the completion of the Caicos Causeway and $1.2 million for road repairs and improvements. The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force will receive $20.9 million this year, which is a 0.8 per cent increase over last year’s allocation. Misick noted that the increase is not for additional gears for the police, but will be going towards personnel costs. Ministry of Home Affairs, Transportation and Communications has been allocated $9.6 million, which is a 16.2 percent increase over its last allocation. This allocation includes money for a new juvenile detention centre. The Attorney General Chambers has been allocated $9 million, or 18.1 percent increase over its 2014/2015 Budget provision. The increase allows for the recruitment of three new drafts people, a Deputy Attorney General

and others to expedite the process, the minister stated. Two additional increases are going to the Ministry of Border Control and Employment - $7.8 million which represents a 15.1 percent increase for additional staff; and a 28.1 percent increase to the Ministry of Tourism, Environment, Heritage and Culture to $7 million. Meanwhile, the judiciary will see a 19 percent decrease in its allocation for the new FY - $6.7 million. The finance minister noted that this decrease is due largely to the reduction in budget for the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT). He added that the allocation for the SIPT is the same as last year’s as that was not utilised. “We have adjusted the expenditure for this year based on what we estimate will be spent based on the progress of the cases,” he added. For his ministry, there has been a decrease in allocation, $17.3 million, which is a 10.3 percent reduction. The decrease is due to the establishment of the Invest TCI Agency as a separate statutory body from the finance ministry. The remainder of the budget consists of statutory charges, including pension and gratuities, contingency fund and debt servicing; $4 million to the Governor’s Office; $2.8 million to the House of Assembly; and $2.3 million to the Premier’s Office. Misick noted that as the Premier’s Office now has the responsibility for local government, in the new financial year there will be significant activity as the Government tries to delegate some more authority to the different islands to allow them to have more of say in the decision making process. Other allocations are going to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions - $2.3 million; $2.2 million to the Deputy Governor’s Office and other costs such as the constitutional and statutory bodies, the minister added. The budget will be debated by members of the House after being scrutinised by the Appropriation Committee in the upcoming weeks and passed by the end of the 2014/2015 financial year on March 31.

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March 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

MIKE as PNP chair?

(PART TWO)

• EDITOR’S NOTE Due to continued interest in last week’s Talk Back, we extended the opportunity for more opinions in order to achieve a broader cross section of views on the subject.

MICHAEL Misick recently announced his plans to contest the chairmanship of the ruling Progressive National Party (PNP) in April. The former Premier believes that he has the necessary skills and experience to guide the party to victory in the 2016 elections and beyond. One of his main goals is to reconnect the party, and the Government by extension, with the people of the Islands, as he believes this has been lacking in the last two years. What are your thoughts?

PNP all the way

I want Michael Misick back again to make the country change. I am a PNP!

Hold on, Mike

Honestly right now I think he should hold up a bit and get all of this legal stuff over with. I know that he could win, but I think he should take a break and get over all this court stuff out of the way.

Yes I would vote for him again because I think he has done a good job. We have all come short sometimes, but he did a good job.

Too much trouble

I don’t think I would vote for him. His party has brought too much trouble in the country; too much things are going on because of him so I don’t think we should trust him again.

Won’t vote for him

I think it is foolishness, and no I wouldn’t vote for him. I think we need to clear up one matter first before we go into the next because other issues are still outstanding. Before we address those issues I don’t think we should get anything out. We shouldn’t take away from what needs to be set straight and I think that is exactly what that would be doing. I am a pastor, I don’t trust that man.

Give him another chance

I think he did an awesome job as chairman; he did an incredible job as premier even though he ran into some bumps and messed a few things up. We are all human and we all make mistakes and I’m sure he has learned from all of the mistakes he has made in the past.

Not for the people

Mike is my cousin, but he is the reason that our country is the way it is now. He wasn’t looking out for our people.

Better than Rufus

I wouldn’t vote for Mike, but I do think that he would definitely do a better job than Rufus

PDM should applaud the Gov’t, says Finance Minister BY DELANA ISLES MINISTER of Finance Washington Misick is not too pleased at the PDM leader’s claims that the 2015/2016 Budget is an elections budget. Speaking with the Weekly News on Monday (March 2), Misick responded to recent statements by the Opposition Leader, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson that the Government’s promises of more jobs, construction boost and minimum wage increase is them using the Treasury as a campaign purse. Cartwright Robinson’s contention was that all of these things could have been done before now, but that the Government had different priorities than looking after the people of the country. But Misick refuted this, saying that everyone in the country knew what the situation was when the PNP took over the reins of the Government some two years ago.

He said that at that time, it was apparent to all that huge questions existed as to the potential for the Islands, both financially and economically. “We had a huge debt hanging over our heads and we didn’t know how things were going to go. It’s simple and clear as the nose on anyone’s face that you can’t spend money if you don’t have it to spend.” He added that now that the economy is doing better and the resources are there, the Government can now invest in the people, infrastructure, and make investments to promote growth. “It is kind of disingenuous to say that you are going to punish the voter so that you can come back… I mean, election is close to two years away and that is such a cheap shot to say that,” Misick said. He added: “They should be applauding the Government. You can’t criticise a government when

you claim they are not doing enough for people and when they improve the economy, find the resources, then you claim they are doing it for political reasons.” He said that the Opposition’s claims are hollow and that the motivation behind them is clear. A few weeks back, the PDM leader told this publication that while her party believes the new budget provisions are an elections ploy, they are still happy to see that the needs of the people of the country are being addressed in the 2015/2016 allocations. She said that with the stabilising economy the PNP inherited as well as the good tourism performance, more could have been done before now. “We hope that we see a budget that we have been asking for, for years and that is one which has people as its priority. “We actually expect we will see it in this budget,” she said at the time.

Ewing.

Only about the money

I am sure that he has the necessary skills to get into our pocketbooks again! He wants to reconnect the party with the money as well!

Should not be front man yet

It is believed and some has expressed it, Dr Ewing and Trevor Cook etc. are just place holders until Mike is in charge again (so their days are numbered). But until then, whatever skills Mike has he needs to share it with capable individuals in the party who has leadership skills. He should not be the front man for the party. He needs to wait until he is completely cleared of ALL charges before seeking any such position.

 Become a contributor Want to become a contributor or have a suggestion for a Talk Back topic for us? What questions do you think we should be putting to the public? And what are your thoughts on it? Call our news team on 946 4664 or email tcweeklynews@gmail.com

Governor reappoints SIPT judge for three years ON THURSDAY (February 26), Governor Peter Beckingham issued a new Order appointing Justice Paul Harrison for three years with effect from January 1, 2015. Harrison is presiding over the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team’s (SIPT) trial of former Premier Michael Misick and several others. Beckingham’s order came just a day before Misick’s lawyer Beryn Duncanson was set to present arguments before Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale for a review of the Governor’s previous order of appointment. That order, which has now been revoked, was issued on November 20, 2014, by the Governor extending Harrison’s term in office from January 2015 with no specified term limit. The new order, in effect corrects a defect in the previous appointment, by extending Harrison’s appointment as a judge of the Supreme Court to preside over the trial of Misick and others as well as any severed or related matter as the Chief Justice may

direct, for a period of three years. According to Duncanson his client will be challenging the new order by the Governor. However, the judicial review is still outstanding as there are issues with the judge’s appointment apart from the indefinite appointment that have been raised by the plaintiff. The plaintiff is also seeking a review of Harrison’s appointment given his advanced age, as at the time of his initial appointment in 2012 he was reportedly 75-years-old. That appointment came to an end and was extended to December 2014 by Beckingham. The court is also being asked to order that Harrison’s tenure as a judge in the TCI Supreme Court came to an end last December. The plaintiff contends 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. (DELANA ISLES)

March 7 - 13, 2015

Regional bond market impressed by Turks and Caicos turnaround MAJOR players in the Caribbean regional debt market were impressed by the dramatic turnaround in the public finances of the Turks and Caicos Islands during a road show in Trinidad and Tobago. Last week, a delegation from the Ministry of Finance travelled to Trinidad to meet with a number of regional banks, asset managers and other financial institutions. On her return to the TCI, acting Permanent Secretary, Shonia Thomas-Been said that there was an overwhelmingly positive reaction to the story of TCI’s financial recovery. “During our discussions we were repeatedly told that the TCI had made an ‘impressive bounce back, that the Government here

had done the right things and that our BBB+ investment grade credit rating awarded by Standard and Poor’s in 2014 is a critical factor,” Thomas-Been said. She noted that the team achieved its aim of generating interest in the regional sovereign bond market with regards to investing in the TCI, which will hopefully lead to competition to lend to the TCI Government at the best possible rate for taxpayers. The TCI team also heard from investors that they greatly value the TCI’s relationship with the United Kingdom. The event came at a time when the Government is poised to refinance around $70 million of its debt in February 2016.

$2.9m to complete Caicos Causeway budgeted THE GOVERNMENT has set aside $2.9 million for the completion of the Caicos Causeway in the new 2015/2016 Budget. Minister of Finance, Washington Misick told the Weekly News this past week that the additional allocation is for the second phase of the project, which will complete the entire structure. He said the intention is to try to

get it completed within the next year. In addition to this allocation, the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning has been allocated $1.2 million for road repairs and improvements across the Islands. The entire budgetary allocation for the ministry is $21.8 million, which represents a 32.7 percent increase from its expenditure in the 2014/2015 financial year.

Clocks go forward one hour permanently this Sunday THIS SUNDAY, March 8, the time goes forward one hour in the Turks and Caicos Islands and will remain that way from now. “This move will provide our visitor and residents with an extra hour of sunshine during our winter months, our peak tourist season,” Minster for Border Control and Employment, Don-hue Gardiner said in a press release. “This will be good news for our resorts, bars and restaurants, as well as allowing our residents to enjoy a little more sunshine at the end of their day,” Gardiner added. The decision was made to move permanently in 2014, but only implemented now to allow proper notification of the relevant international authorities, including

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

airlines and shipping companies, the release read. The Islands will now observe Atlantic Standard Time (AST) rather than Eastern Standard Time (EST). The TCI was previously in the same time zone (EST) and followed the same daylight savings time schedule as most of eastern United States and Canada. Clocks were set one hour forward on the second Sunday in March and turned back one hour on the first Sunday in November. But as of March 8, the TCI will be on AST all year round, making it one hour ahead of cities like New York and Toronto when the US and Canada continue to observe the move to EST each fall.

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Several Government contracts to be awarded AT THE seventh meeting of the Cabinet on Wednesday (March 4) the Procurement Board recommended the award of 11 Government contracts. These include the construction of Bambarra slip extension in Middle Caicos; refurbishment works to Raymond Gardiner High School science lab in North Caicos; Blue Hills dock repairs in Providenciales; completion of the auditorium at HJ Robinson High School in Grand Turk; design and construction of New Wellness Centre in Grand Turk and the Middle Caicos recreational park. Construction of Clement Howell High School canteen; road development programme at Three Mary Cays roads in North Caicos; refurbishment of Sammy Been building for Border Control in Providenciales; refurbishment to HJ Robinson High School laboratory in Grand Turk and the supply of vehicle lease. According to a post Cabinet statement, Governor Peter Beckingham was advised to repeal the Customs (charge on insurance and freight) Ordinance 2013 as part of the tax rationalisation strategy implemented by the Government. He was also advised to approve the Cruise Ships (exemption from statutory provisions) Bill 2015

necessary to ensure compliance with the Grand Turk Cruise Centre development agreement. The bill will exempt the owners and operators of any cruise ship from the requirements of the following ordinances for services provided on board the cruise ship – the Hotel and Tourism (Taxation), Tourism Accommodation (Licensing), Passenger Tax, Casino, Liquor Licensing and Gaming Machines. Cabinet approved the education sector plan for 2014 to 2018. The plan sets out the eight strategic imperatives for education in the Turks and Caicos Islands, identifies the outcomes expected and the main strategies for their successful achievement. The plan is a key requirement of the European Union Development Fund 11th Programme (EDF11) of €14.6 million Euros, in favour of the education sector. The Governor was further advised to approve amendments to the Public Financial Management Regulations 2012 to be made by the Minister of Finance to secure improved financial administration. The amendments provide for improved compliance with International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) and supplementary estimates, virement,

Under the tree

contingency funding and expenditure warrants for the consolidated fund and the development fund. A draft resolution will be forwarded to the House of Assembly shortly. Further advice was given to the Governor for him to approve revisions to the business licence fee schedule. The revisions provide for a reduction in fees to provide relief and to facilitate entrepreneurship. Reductions to fees will be implemented in phases with the first being an across the board reduction averaging 50 percent of existing fees to be implemented in the upcoming renewal period commencing April 1, 2015. Beckingham was also advised to approve the Dormant Accounts Forms Regulations 2015. The regulations provide for the forms on which information is submitted by the account providers to the Permanent Secretary of Finance as prescribed in the Dormant Accounts Ordinance 2014. Additionally, Cabinet received a report from the Premier following his attendance at the two day 26th intersessional meeting of the conference of heads of government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) held in the Bahamas on February 26 and 27.

By Benneth Williams

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 7 - 13, 2015

Governor lauds TCI’s tourism business at annual hotel and tourism awards

Deputy Governor, Anya Williams and Minister of Finance, Washington Misick at the conference in the British Virgin Islands

TCI to get nearly $30m for education and business support from EU THE EUROPEAN Union (EU) has committed close to $30 million (€25.6m) to support the education and business sectors in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The announcement of the grant was confirmed at the EU’s recent Overseas Countries and Territories (EUOCT) event held on February 24 to 26, in the British Virgin Islands. In a press release following the event, Deputy Governor Anya Williams said: “We can now reveal that the TCI has secured $16.39 million of new funding to support our education sector. “This in addition to the $13.3 million already announced for improving the way that Government interacts with businesses in our territory.” She said that arrangements have already been made for important training for Government commercial officers this April.

Finance Minister Washington Misick, who also attended the event, noted: “I have worked with the EU for three years to secure this funding, which we are eligible for [through] the UK’s membership of the EU. “This is bringing us a range of new opportunities to the TCI.” He added that the fact the TCI has secured nearly $30 million in direct funding from the EU is recognition of the significant improvements that have been made in both the economy and the public financial management of the country. “We will now use these funds to boost - arguably our two most important sectors in the short to medium term - education and business. “The TCI will also look to play its part alongside other countries and territories in protecting our environment and biodiversity, as

well as looking to increase our use of renewable energies, which can only further benefit our people and commercial institutions.” The event saw leaders from 22 EU countries and territories, including the eight inhabited UK overseas territories, gather for the 13th EUOCT forum in order to strengthen their relationships with key EU institutions and to discuss how they can work better together. It took place under the patronage of the outgoing chair Dr Orlando Smith, Premier of the British Virgin Islands, Neven Mimica, the European Commissioner for International Development and Development and other high level EU Commission officials, including Marcus Cornaro, Deputy Director General for International Cooperation and Development and Maurice Ponga, member of the European Parliament.

Work starts on South Caicos airport upgrade INITIAL work has begun at the South Caicos airport, the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA) announced this week. The initial steps will form the ground work before the actual construction takes place on island, a press release from the TCIAA stated. The works at the airport include a full rehabilitation of the runway, apron, fire hall, tower and terminal building. Chief executive officer of the

TCIAA, John Smith, said: “We have selected WSP Global Inc as our engineers from a slew of capable engineering consultants.” WSP Global Inc has commenced work on breathing new life into the South Caicos aerodrome with works slated to begin early this year. They have committed to providing the successful implementation and completion of the project in a timely manner, the release read. Members of the TCIAA team

accompanied by Premier Rufus Ewing and his ministers held a meeting with the community of South Caicos on Thursday, February 19, to hear their concerns and see how they can better serve the people through the development. The redevelopment of the airport promises to bring opportunities for further growth to South Caicos. It would also allow more efficient air transportation to the island to facilitate not only local, but also international traffic.

GOVERNOR Peter Beckingham believes that everyone - from members of parliament, developers, to taxi drivers and bar staff - should congratulate themselves on the country’s impressive tourism figures. The Governor made the remarks during his presentation at the TCI’s’ annual Hotel and Tourism Association awards dinner last Thursday (February 26). “Our reputation is riding high in our key North American market, as the Premier and I saw in New York last December,” Beckingham said. He added that: “Many tour operators were telling us how attractive TCI has become as a tourist destination, and I was left in no doubt that our brand is in great shape thanks to the hard work of the tourism board, developers, and all those who work in the industry.” The Governor also noted the important role the first and last impressions at the airport play in retaining and developing business. “We don’t have hard, statistical information, but my strong impression is that our immigration and customs officers have made a real effort over the last year or so to give visitors a warm welcome when they first set foot in TCI. “Recent visitors from London,

Governor Peter Beckingham

as well as one of the UK’s most senior overseas diplomats, have told me that they have had a very positive experience on arriving in TCI,” Beckingham said. He added that not only association members, but everyone living in TCI, should take credit for the territory’s robust tourism growth. “I was able to tell the visiting European Union Ambassador to TCI (Paola Amadei) that we are now one of the best performing tourism destinations in the region. “Our low crime rate, and our high quality product, is proving a magnet for North American visitors, not least when they can escape the winter chill,” Beckingham said.

Money allocated again for juvenile centre THE LONG awaited juvenile detention centre will hopefully and finally be opened this year as the Government has made provisions in the 2015/2016 budget for its establishment. The money for the centre, which falls under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Transportation and Communications, forms a part of the $9.6 million allocation for the ministry. Minister George Lightbourne on Monday (March 2) confirmed that the centre will be located in Grand Turk. However, the main problem of specific location that has caused the years’ long delay in its establishment was not revealed. The delay in the establishment of the centre has been due to location issues for the last three years, even as Cabinet has repeatedly signalled its commitment to the project and allocated money for its formation. Currently, juvenile offenders are being housed at Her Majesty’s

Prison where new and separate space from the adult population was set aside in 2013. The plans for the separate centre have been stalled for a long time, with them repeatedly being reworked for submission to the Planning Board. The proposal to use Carlsberg House in Grand Turk – which was renovated for that purpose at significant cost to the Government - was rejected in March 2013 after residents protested the use of the location. Residents had at the time threatened the ministry with a petition if the Government went ahead and housed the youngsters within their community. The minister (Amanda Misick at the time) had then told this publication that her ministry was looking to Middle and North Caicos as possible sites for the centre and will be seeking the public’s input. The attempt was to balance the needs of the juveniles with that of the community. (DELANA ISLES)

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Sean Astwood airlifted Gov’t hosts first Youth Expression for urgent medical care DEPUTY leader of the PDM Sean Astwood was airlifted to Nassau, Bahamas, on February 28 for urgent medical care. Mother of Astwood, Nell Williams, declined to comment much but she did say that he was in a more stable condition and that she was hoping for a speedy recovery. There have still not been any confirmed reports on his diagnosis. Earlier in the week, Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, told press that Astwood has had a number of tests at hospital and is receiving treatment. Residents of Five Cays held a public prayer gathering for Astwood on Wednesday (March 4) at the Paradise Baptist Church. Gospel music was played as friends and family members of the Deputy Leader prayed for full restoration of his health. On Thursday, Governor Peter Beckingham also expressed well

Deputy Leader for the PDM Party Sean Astwood

wishes for his speedy recovery during the opening of the House of Assembly. (BY DAISY HANDFIELD)

TCI authorities intercept illegal immigration attempt A SLOOP carrying 56 illegal immigrants was intercepted by the marine division of the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force (RTCIPF) just recently. Fifty men and six women were captured at 11.25pm on Thursday (February 26). At 10.15pm the marine police were alerted by immigration staff at the Government’s coastal radar station of a suspicious vessel being tracked; they deployed shortly after. All marine branch assets and

officers since returned safely to the marine base. All 56 individuals are now being processed by health and immigration officials and will be deported at the earliest opportunity. All appear to be of Haitian origin. Anyone with information can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 1-800-8477. Tips can also be submitted anonymously in English, French or Spanish on www. crimestoppers.tc.

Masked, knife wielding man robs woman in Turtle Cove A WOMAN was attacked and robbed of her bag by a knife-wielding suspect at about 6pm on Monday, March 2, in Providenciales. Information from the police is that the woman, in the company another female, was walking back to her hotel from the beach via the beach access road by La Vista Azul hotel in the Turtle Cove area when they were approached by a male. The man had a shirt over his face to conceal his features and was carrying a knife, which he brandished while demanding that the woman turn over her possessions. The woman did not put up any

resistance and promptly handed over her shoulder bag, after which the bandit ran away, police said. A subsequent call to 911 saw police officers combing the area for the robber. The bag was recovered the next day by officers, minus two cell phones and a quantity of cash. Investigations into the incident are ongoing. Police press officer Audley Astwood said that while the Turks and Caicos Islands remains a low crime destination, people still need to exercise caution when going about their business.

THE DEPARTMENT of Mental Health and Substance Dependence (DMHSD) hosted its first annual Youth Expression essay, rap and poster competition under the theme ‘Help for today, hope for tomorrow’ recently. The event was held on Monday (March 2) at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Centre in Providenciales. DMHSD director Dr Alicia Malcolm said that the event was aimed at creating awareness about the important public health issue of underage drinking and to encourage individuals and families to get help for alcohol or drug related problems. “All in attendance were fortunate enough to witness an array of talented performers who showcased not only their artistic ability, but also demonstrated their leadership in the fight against alcohol and drug abuse.” Contestants were judged for creativity, originality, interpretation of the theme and overall presentation. The art and poster competition for the grade two and three students in category one, first place winner was

This is a time for students to showcase their talents in various areas

Jonathan Hosey from Shining Stars, second place Xavier Malcolm from Ona Glinton Primary School and third place Samarii Missick from Ona Glinton Primary School. Category two for grade four and six students first place winner was Daveon Durham from Enid Capron Primary School, second place Fredline Morency from Enid Capron Primary School and third place Raheem Hall from Iris Stubbs Primary School. For the essay competition first place went to Rashuandra Cook from Marjorie Basden, second place Claudenise Jean from Marjorie

Basden and third place Htenneb Williams from Wesley Methodist School. For the rap competition first place went to Luywine Francis from HJ Robinson High School, second place to Joel Occius from Marjorie Basden and third place to Natalia Rigby from Marjorie Basden. Among judges were Bennett Williams, Charlotte Chapman and Dwight Outten for the art competition, Lynette Higgs, Tatianna McTaire and Edwin Taylor for the essay competition and Romaine Pinnock, Twiston Forbes and Sophia Thomas for the rap competition.

MILLS MUSES

Tampering with governance structures POLITICS is a strategy to upstage the competitor, and introduce reforms that would make the existing situation qualitatively better. This includes the establishment of a more effective and efficient governance which is both sustainable and developmental. The core features of governance are maintained, but incrementally changed to suit new requirements which make it more relevant and fit for purpose. But in some Caribbean countries a change of government has meant not just tampering with governance structures but their abolition, and replacement by others that in many instances have proven to be less effective. For example, in one country, after a change of government, a governance structure which was in place to manage imports to avoid corruption had its name changed, which also influenced its function. And recently in another Caribbean country, according to an academic who writes on regional affairs, the activities occurring around the recent elections showed all the components of autocracy. These included avoiding a motion of no confidence, an attempt to change the boundaries at the last minute, and massaging

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.

parliamentary rules to stop a debate on the intended boundaries. In my view this is tampering with governance structures to attain partisan results, although these structures were established to ensure ethics in governance. This idea of tampering with governance structures was recently taken on by the Governor of the TCI. According to Caribbean News Now, the Governor, in referring to the refinancing of the TCI’s debt, said in part that: “Our governance structures will be scrutinised by the banks and other financial service organisations more rigorously than ever before. “I am confident that they can stand up to that examination – so long as Government doesn’t attempt to undermine the superb economic performance of the last two years by proposing changes and tampering with the governance structures which have been carefully constructed to ensure economy, efficiency and effectiveness.” This statement by the Governor is

prudent, and relevant. The experience of many Caribbean countries has shown that whenever there is a tampering with governance structures, it impacts unfavourably on the image of the countries concerned. Lending institutions become suspicious of the activities of the political directorate and potential investment is frozen, because word gets around that the country’s politics is toxic. The Governor is therefore right, and his statement is timely. The TCI now has evidence that the quality of governance structures brings positive results. Tampering with something that’s working is not advisable. Of course when circumstances change a review is necessary, but the core fundamentals are central to continuity and do not rule out incremental, strategic change. This is how efficiency and effectiveness are ensured, along with further growth and development.

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‘A great and envious position’

– Past successes and future plans set out in throne speech THE CREATION of a national health strategy plan, the introduction of new family law bills and stricter control over illegal immigration are all on the agenda for the Government over the coming year. These and many other plans were made public during the annual throne speech at the state opening of the House of Assembly in Grand Turk on Thursday (March 5). Governor Peter Beckingham stood before members of the House and the public in the NJS Francis Building to read the comprehensive speech prepared by Premier Rufus Ewing. He said that he stood with a sense of pride and humility as he noted the many accomplishments of the Government and the people over the short two years since coming into office. “The years leading up to this point in the governance of these Islands was quite eventful for the Government and the people of these Islands. “During this period we set out an agenda for economic recovery and growth and laid a solid foundation for the future prosperity of all of the Turks and Caicos Islands and all who reside on our shores. “We remain committed to ensuring that Turks and Caicos Islanders are empowered at every

stage of their development and can enjoy a good quality of life in their senior years.” He praised the public for their “innate, time-tested ability to adapt to the ups and downs of an often turbulent world” and went on to say that creating jobs and economic growth is and will remain the Government’s top priority. Deliberate policy decisions have led to success, he said, the benefits of which are now being manifested and will continue into the future. But it is important that the country works together. “As members of society we must all accept that the scale and complexity of the challenges of nation building are by no means simple and that solutions may not seem to surface as rapidly as we might like,” the Governor read. “Where important decisions are required, a considerable amount of focus, time and effort is often required to satisfactorily and appropriately address the issue at hand.” He praised the tremendous growth in the economy which is mainly driven by tourism and related businesses. “This has been the result of unprecedented increase in the tourist arrivals to our shores, soaring from

just over one million in 2013 to 1.4 million in 2014. “This 24 percent increase in arrivals was experienced in both overnight stays as well as cruise passengers.” Beckingham stressed that the increase was not due to inclement weather to the north but due to the Government’s policies. “We will continue to not only promote Turks and Caicos as a destination but to have specific focus on the development, marketing and promotion of tourism in the family islands, and in so doing diversify and decentralise the tourism economies of our Islands.” He explained that these initiatives will be implemented under the framework of a new tourism strategic plan and taxation incentives that will encourage the development of private sector tourist attractions, airlift and tourism accommodation in the family islands. Cultural villages will be developed both centrally and in the south of Grand Turk and a fish fry will be introduced. In reading the throne speech the Governor said that the maintenance of a clean environment and the preservation and promotion of culture and heritage is critical to sustainable economic growth and

development. “To this end we are committed to addressing the environmental cleanliness challenge due to lack of resources and ineffective laws or non-enforcement thereof.” He said the increase in funding and strengthening of local government in district administration will give those communities the ability to take care of their own affairs and manage their works and maintenance programmes. “We will likewise increase funding in the larger islands of Providenciales and Grand Turk to adequately address these environmental challenges.” Beckingham stressed that the greatest culture and heritage asset is the country’s people who have toiled and made the TCI what it is today. “Our Government is committed to the promotion of our culture and heritage and as such has dedicated an entire month and a national holiday for its celebration.” He said that the country can now boast having one of the best performing economies in the region, but that it needed to be converted into sustainable economic development and empowerment of people through job creation and small and medium business development. The Governor went on to speak about the Government’s plans to implement, develop and publish a Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the Turks and Caicos Islands. There will also be consumer protection legislation so as to increase and sustain the disposable income and wealth of all.

NO ELECTION PLOY “It is only through the strong economic recovery of these Islands and the resultant increases in Government revenue, credited to this Governments’ policies over the last two years, that we are now able to move faster on our manifesto promises, contrary to the rhetoric and beliefs of those who say it is because election is near, or contrary to those claiming credit by saying they were asking for it,” Beckingham read He added that the Government was given an onerous task to pay off a $170 million dollar loan in five years and by February 2016, it is on target in accomplishing that feat with the removal of the UK loan guarantee. “It is quite possible that our BBB+ stable rating, when reviewed this year June may most likely be upgraded and can consequently allow us to receive even more favourable borrowing offers on the bond and loan market as we refinance the remainder of our debt in February 2016.” Such accomplishment would allow the Governement to increase funding in the many areas of need, he said, such as roads, schools, the funding of new programmes in the areas of education, health, social development, labour and security, the welfare of civil servants and civil service productivity. “This is a great and envious position for the Turks and Caicos Islands to be in in short a short continued 

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Public gathers for state opening of House of Assembly SCORES of bystanders stood in the cool shade of trees and buildings as they watched an impressive ceremony unfold outside the NJS Francis building in Grand Turk on Thursday (March 5). The occasion was the annual state opening of House of Assembly and it included the usual splendid display of pomp and pageantry. Just before 10am officers from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) marched past senior police officers who were stood outside the assembly building. They included the new Commissioner of Police James Smith and newly reappointed Deputy Commissioner Rodney Adams.

The police force band played rousing tunes and marched in time before a delighted watching public. Meanwhile inside the building the first sitting of the first meeting of the third session of the tenth legislature began with the reading of the proclamation. Canon Mark Kendall then read a prayer before Speaker of the House Robert Hall was escorted to join the awaiting ceremony outside. Governor Peter Beckingham, who arrived by car with his wife Jill, was met by Commissioner of Police Smith before being escorted to a podium decorated with the colours of the TCI flag.

A member of the police force band played a fanfare and then officers were ordered to present arms for inspection by Beckingham. Senior officers accompanied the Governor in the short inspection before returning him to the podium at which time the police band played the national anthem. After a final police march the Governor was escorted inside the House of Assembly building where the ceremony continued. Following another fanfare, gathered members of the House and those in the public gallery stood as Gessie Germain sang the national anthem and the national song. The Governor then delivered the Government’s lengthy throne speech

in which he spoke of numerous recent accomplishments and plans for the future. Premier Rufus Ewing then stood to deliver thanks to the Governor which was seconded by the Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson. The Speaker of the House then escorted Beckingham from the assembly and members joined him for a short reception. When parliament resumed Carwright Robinson replied to the throne speech highlighting gaps in the Government’s promises. Several other members then stood to offer their opinion on the speech before the assembly was adjourned.

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Second weekly British Airways service from October ON WEDNESDAY (March 4), the Tourist Board announced that British Airways will be increasing flight services from London Gatwick to Providenciales by an additional flight per week commencing October 29. The service will operate on a Thursday, via Antigua, using a three class Boeing 777 aircraft. British Airways currently operates one flight a week, on Sundays, from London Heathrow to Providenciales via Nassau, Bahamas. As of March 29, this flight will move from London Heathrow to London Gatwick, via Antigua, serviced by a three class Boeing 777 aircraft. Commenting on the new service in a statement to the press this week, was Head of Gatwick Commercial Colm Lacy. “We are delighted to be announcing increased services to Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos Islands. “On top of the introduction of a Boeing 777 aircraft this summer, our increased services this winter will give passengers

Dominican artist and Producer Nico Clinico

increased flexibility and more choice when flying to the island. “Customers can enjoy our world traveller, world traveller plus and club world cabins, whilst enjoying our food and entertainment on-board.” Director of Tourism Ralph Higgs also expressed his appreciation for the additional service. “We are pleased that British Airways acknowledges Turks and Caicos as one of the foremost destination in the Caribbean. “The destination will see increased airlift from Europe as British Airways increases its service to twice weekly from London Gatwick.” He added that the upgrade in the flight from a Boeing 767 to a Boeing 777 will also offer increased capacity. Moreover, the new route via Antigua will undoubtedly make the Turks and Caicos Islands more accessible and attractive to potential visitors from the eastern Caribbean as well; a sign of great things for the future of our tourism market, Higgs stated.

Gov’t takes steps to prepare for tsunamis

Scores of Dominicans present for the performances

Dominicans celebrate another year of independence BY DAISY HANDFIELD HUNDREDS of Dominicans living in the TCI wore their blue and red shirts on Sunday (March 1) as they celebrated 171 years of independence. The event started with a motorcade from the Downtown area in Providenciales up to the IGA roundabout and then back down to the ball park where the main event

took place. President of the Dominicans United Committee, Candido Moreno, said that in his opinion this was the most well organised event compared to previous years. “Although we are in another territory we want to show that we still remember our independence and we want our children to follow in our footsteps,” he said. The president added that in

the future he hopes that the event will see more support from the community and be held on a larger scale. Coming from the Dominican Republic to participate in the independence was Dominican artist and producer Nico Clinico. There were also local Dominican artists such as El Veterano and Whaboy who are two figures that take part in the activities annually.

EMERGENCY management personnel will take part in a regional tsunami response programme later this month. On March 25 staff from the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) will host the joint Caribe Wave and Lantex exercise. This two-day event will allow for multi-stakeholder feedback on Draft National Tsunami Plan and provide an introductory course to earthquakes and tsunamis. It will also give attendees practice in problem solving and coordination of services during a tsunami event and will go over test emergency communication plans and systems. Finally it will validate the organisational decision making process about public warnings and evacuation procedures Rikardia Pardo, hazard mitigation officer in the DDME, said: “Our goal this year is for the exercise to provide an opportunity for emergency management organisations to exercise their operational lines of communications, review their response procedures and promote more coordinated tsunami response

actions. “Regular exercising of response plans is critical to maintaining readiness for an emergency; this is particularly true for tsunamis, which are infrequent, but high impact events.” As part of the exercise, the DDME will conduct a tsunami orientation exercise on Tuesday and Wednesday, March 24 and 25 at the DDME office in Providenciales starting at 8.30am. The principal participants expected to be a part of the exercise are the national tsunami focal point (911), first responders (fire, police and emergency management services), the National Operations Group, and other key stakeholders. Participants will receive alert messages using various mediums as part of the regional exercise. Anyone expected to respond to a tsunami is encouraged to register to receive alert messages during the exercise at www.caribewave.info. In 2014, almost 200,000 people across 31 Caribbean nations and 16 territories took part in the third regional Caribewave and Lantex tsunami exercise.

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Joshua Gardiner to be laid to rest March 28 THE FUNERAL service of the late Ebenezer ‘Obed’ Joshua Gardiner, sports columnist for the Weekly News, will be held on March 28 at a location still to be disclosed. His son, Brutus Gardiner, and other family members are kindly appealing to anyone who wishes to participate in the service by way of donations or otherwise to contact Dorell Pratt-Delancey on 244-1400. Joshua, as he was widely known, sadly passed away on February 6, at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre. “We are seeking donations to assist in defraying our dearly departed Joshua Gardiner’s funeral expenses,” the younger Gardiner stated in an appeal posted on online. He said that Corey’s Funeral Chapel has graciously agreed to oversee his father’s internment and any donations can be made via cheque, draft or wire transfer to Corey’s Funeral Chapel, or delivered to the Market Place at Destination TCI Office or Corey’s Funeral Chapel. “It behoves us as community to support his family during their bereavement as the nation has lost a national sports hero and journalist of monumental proportions. “Josh was an excellent and devoted teacher who inspired, mentored, and fathered many,” the statement read. His drive for excellence and positive outlook on life triggered love and admiration for him. “Because of this, we encourage the entire Turks and Caicos Islands to participate in the funeral services as a demonstration of our appreciation for his contributions to our society. “During these difficult times, a phone call from you will be uplifting

Celebrate International Women’s Day this Sunday at church

THIS Sunday, March 8, celebrate international women’s day with the Gender Affairs Unit of the Ministry of Environment and Home Affairs at the Paradise Baptist Church in Five Cays, Providenciales. This year, as before, the unit is celebrating on all the islands, under the theme: ‘Step out, step up. Women, let’s make it happen’. The day will be commemorated with a prayer for women nationally and internationally. The international theme for 2015 is ‘Make it happen’. The theme encourages effective action for advancing and recognising women.

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Ebenezer ‘Obed’ Joshua Gardiner

and comforting to the family and would be appreciated to sympathise and convey your gratitude to Joshua.” Order of funeral services - wake keeping and memorial service will be held on Friday, March 27 from 7pm to 9pm; and the funeral service, address and interment on Saturday March 28. The family further expresses heartfelt thanks to the following people - Johanne Karam, Sonia Grant, Chevette Capron, John Wildish, Gordon Kerr, Blythe Duncanson, Josephine Connolly, Jonathan Gardiner, Corey’s Funeral Chapel and many more.

REAL TALK

Simply put: Parents need to be parents EVERYTHING that is going on now is this country in regards to the crisis with our youths must be laid at the feet of parents. When the TCI’s parents used to rule their children in the fear of the Lord, the majority of them grew up and became outstanding citizens. Back in the day when parents needed help with raising their children, the village stepped in and provided support. These days; the village is told: “That is my child, have nothing to say to them.” Have nothing to say until that same parent is asking for leniency when that child was caught breaking and entering in the village people houses, when the child is found selling drugs to the village children; that same child becomes a gang leader recruiting other children who have a chance at success and instruct them to do

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.

their evil deeds for them. When this happens; your child now becomes the village’s problem. Moreover, when teachers invest time and effort in disciplining your child, stop attacking them; instead, support them because they are helping the village to raise your child. Too many parents are absentee parents. You need to get involved in the life of your child. Parents need to be parents. Put your foot down with rudeness and

disrespect. If your child doesn’t respect you, how will they respect others? Supplying lunch money and textbooks do not make you a good parent; it only makes you responsible. Instilling morals, respect for authority and good values in your children makes you a good parent. If you are doing your best, take no offence. But who the cap fits, let them wear it.

COMMENTARY

The chicken or the egg DESERVING comment is the recent speech by Premier Rufus Ewing when he begged business owners to hire TC Islanders. While a noble thought Doc Ewing needs only to look across the breakfast table to see he clearly does not believe his own advice. The doctor chose a qualified expat for the most important role in his life, his wife and business partner. This commentator chose a wife from one of the best group of prospective mates in the world today, TCI ladies! Folks are now celebrating this fact with our own Miss Universe TCI beauty. Beautiful, intelligent and personable. Ewing’s comments also reflect a serious lack of understanding of what came first, the chicken or the egg. Perhaps they did not cover this in medical school. Outside of the details one gleans from Genesis or deep

thought it is indicative of an obvious problem with the Progressive National Party; missing management skills. To qualify for positions workers need education and skills. Many of the civil servants today have serious skill shortfalls. We are not blaming the civil servants, but the people who failed to train and manage them, then or now. Numerous Government employees are late to work, spend long lunch hours and fail to keep organised and safe the simple Government records. In countries as poorly managed as Haiti you can obtain copies of birth or death certificates, police reports and other government controlled records while you wait. In TCI it takes prepayment and months of waiting. In the middle management positions this and previous PNP governments have placed expats and failed to direct them. Look around. It is common sense for an expat

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

business owner to hire local folks because TCI employees need not run the gauntlet of obtaining work permits, housing etc. However our local job candidates require skills for each position and basic work ethics. These come from schools and parents. We need to ask, what school? In the 12 years of PNP not one school was built while millions continue to be wasted on the Premier’s faulty health system, run by ex-pats. Millions more spent on PNP expat starlets and overseas trips. Who built Ewing’s hospital? An expat contractor

using Chinese expat workers. Now we start to build an eight classroom high school in the same district where PDM Health Minister Selver planned a much larger school, a community college and a self-supporting training resort to ready TC Islanders for employment in the hospitality industry. Had PDM gone forward, we would also have trade schools preparing our youth for careers equipped with technical skills. Results would have been, full employment and less crime.

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‘A great and envious ... continued From 

Director of the Human Rights Commission Doreen Quelch-Missick and staff member Kabatha Smith posing with students and human rights material

Human Rights Commission visits schools across the Islands AS PART of its mandate to bring about awareness and to promote

Business licence refund cheques are available for collection

THE REVENUE Department in the Ministry of Finance is informing the business community that cheques for business licence refunds are currently available for collection. The refund cheques can be uplifted at the Turks and Caicos Islands Government Treasury and sub-Treasury. For more information, people are being asked to visit the Revenue Department in Grand Turk and Providenciales or the District Commissioner’s offices in the family islands.

human rights education, the Human Rights Commission (HRC) recently embarked on a series of educational sessions at schools in South Caicos, Grand Turk and Salt Cay. The educational training focused on the fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed by the TCI constitution and the rights of the child guaranteed by the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The commission’s objective was to incorporate the foundation of basic human rights knowledge into the school curriculum for the 2014 and 2015 school year. “We believe that educating children about their human rights will serve to further enhance their overall learning experience and would teach them respect for themselves and respect for others,” according to a press release from the commission this week. The HRC commenced each session by displaying a video about the ‘Story of human rights’ which explained the history of how human rights came about. It prompted the students to think that if human rights are inherent to all human beings why are so many people in the world deprived of their basic fundamental rights daily. The presentation was led by the

HRC Director, Doreen QuelchMissick, and staff members Donessia Gardiner and Kabatha Smith. The educational sessions commenced in South Caicos on February 10, at Iris Stubbs Primary School and Marjorie Basden High School consecutively, where the students showed an ardent interest and actively took part in the discussions. On February 25 and 26, the commission continued its visits at Mary Robinson Primary School in Salt Cay where the group was the smallest but most pleasant. The children displayed a high level of interest in the topics and asked many thought provoking questions. In Grand Turk, the staff visited Eliza Simmons Primary School in South Back Salina, Ona Glinton Primary School in North Back Salina and HJ Robinson High School on Mission Folly. The Human Rights Commission expressed sincere thanks to all the principals and staff of the participating schools, and most of all to the students. The HRC will continue with the educational sessions with planned visits to Enid Capron, Oseta Jolly, and Ianthe Pratt primary schools in Providenciales later in the year.

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period following the recession and the coming into office of my Government.” Beckingham explained that the improvement of the welfare, working conditions and professional development of civil servants was a priority. He reminded the House that the Government as promised, reinstated the 10 percent reduction in salaries in 2013, and now due to the availability of funding will spend an additional $9 million this year in the increase in civil servants salaries due to the regrading initiative. This focused especially on teachers, front line and emergency services employees. “We will continue to deliver on our mandate by making funding available for skills and professional training and certification of civil servants and prepare them for continued upward mobility and advancement within the civil service.” He said that the Government will make adjustments to the benefits of employment such as housing allowance, reintroduce salary increments and implement terminal benefits to replace the lost gratuity benefits. “My Government is knowledgeable of the poor state Government building and office infrastructure and is committed to improving the work environment by acquiring new rental spaces and establish centralised Government office complexes on Providenciales, Grand Turk, North Caicos and South Caicos.” The Government is also committed to ensuring that all the country’s residents have access to healthcare and services of the highest quality based on available resources, Beckingham said. HEALTHCARE GOALS The Government plans to embark on five strategic goals over the next year. The first is strengthening governance and stewardship role of the Ministry of Health and Human Services in the health system. The second is defining and further developing the model of care in the TCI. The Government also plans to institute a health financing structure geared towards a more sustainable and affordable system, and develop and retain a robust and competent health system workforce through efficient planning and management. The fifth goal is to reinforce and strengthen public and environmental health in an effort to prevent disease, prolong life, and promote health at the population level. “Furthermore, my Government will embark on a National Health Strategic Plan (NHSP) in the coming year to provide guidance,

vision, values, priorities and strategic direction to the healthcare renewal process,” the Governor read. “Shifting political and governing practices has created a renewed need for an interim strategy that can bridge a dynamic and shifting health system.” The NHSP will ensure that all national partners in health work together effectively toward achieving combined strategic goals and objectives. It will also serve as a comprehensive document designed to provide direction and guidance to stakeholders and the public to improve the health status of the population of the TCI. “My Government will be relentless in our pursuit to ensure that the vulnerable throughout the islands are protected and have equitable and affordable access to healthcare at all levels of care.” It is the Government’s mandate to ensure that clinics on all islands are opened and have the necessary tools and equipment to cater to the needs of our Islanders, Beckingham said. “In the next few weeks, we will see an official opening of Middle Caicos clinic followed by the Salt Cay clinic as we plan for the development of a new clinic on North Caicos and expansion of the clinic on Providenciales.” The long awaited ambulances for Providenciales, Grand Turk and the family islands have been procured and will arrive on island shortly, and these combined with the new EMT training programme will greatly enhance the delivery of emergency medical services throughout the islands. He said that the wellbeing of the people must be safeguarded, for the health of a nation is the wealth of a nation. Several bills will be coming to this House of Assembly House this year including the Health Regulatory Agency, Food Safety Bill, Tobacco Bill, Mental Health Bill, Pharmaceutical Bill, Health Information Protection Bill and National Health Insurance Amendment Bill. Beckingham said that much progress has been made in the area of financial and clinical services accountability at the hospitals in accordance with the terms of the contract to ensure value for money and patient satisfaction. “To this end we will be strengthening the capacity of the Ministry of Health to proactively manage the hospital contract and bring better value for money.” FAMILY CARE Presented to the House on Thursday were a number of family law bills for ensuring the safety and protection of vulnerable women and children. “Our commitment will be to continued From 

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Students read with Sesame Street’s Grover for Education Week

SESAME Street’s favourite blue monster brought story time to three Government schools for Education Week, thanks to the Sandals Foundation. For the observances this year, the Sandals Foundation joined forces with Sesame Street to bring ‘Story time with Grover’ to several lucky and excited kindergarteners in

Providenciales. Youngsters at Enid Capron, Oseta Jolly and Ianthe Pratt primary schools got the opportunity to participate in an exclusive storytelling session, featuring the well-known Sesame Street tale, ‘Happy and sad, grouchy and glad’. The story time event is a part of the Sandals Foundation literacy

Students of Enid Capron primary enjoyed story time with Grover

programme, which aims to create a fulfilled learning environment where children are taught the importance of reading in an interactive manner. Rachel Handfield, principal of Oseta Jolly Primary School, said: “Reading with Sesame Street’s Grover was a treat for the school family especially for the teachers and students of infant one and two.” She added: “The reading sessions were exciting, interactive and enjoyable as it provided an educational experience for our students which helped them to sharpen their listening and speaking skills. We appreciate your support.” Beaches public relations manager Elanor Finfin Krzanowski, who was on hand to help with the reading session, also commented on the successful reading activity. She said: “Sandals Foundation is always looking for interactive ways to promote literacy in a fun and interactive way. “We are committed to making an impact in the school through creative education by giving kids from the Government public schools an opportunity to interact with their favourite Sesame Street characters

‘A great and envious ... the establishment of a place of safety for these individuals and that of a juvenile facility that will facilitate the rehabilitation of our troubled young people back into society as productive citizens,” Beckingham read. He said the Government will continue to provide increasing levels of social support and funding for those who are vulnerable and the elderly. They include a non-contributory old age pension, improved facilities at the wellness centre, and bringing of greater level of healthcare to the people, in the communities in which they live. “As a community, we must continually reassess how to best care for the people who have given so much to our small nation. Sometimes small measures bring the greatest joy. “We owe them an enormous amount of gratitude for all they have achieved throughout life and for all they continue to accomplish; we owe our senior population our thanks and heartfelt salute. “We can best demonstrate our gratitude and esteem by ensuring that our communities are good places in which to mature and grow older.” The Governor explained that it continues to be the mission of the Government to provide the resources necessary to educate our people at all levels, and to ensure that their education is relevant to the developmental needs of the country. “My Government will continue

to make adequate classroom space available at all levels and to this end, having completed the rebuilding of the Ona Glinton Primary School, we have begun the development of the new Long Bay High School and will continue to focus our school infrastructure development in the building of new primary school and an Early Childhood Centre and Technical Institute at the Community College.” He explained that the Government has also increased resources directed at training teachers and also significantly improving the remuneration of teachers. “Increasing funding for scholarships locally and overseas combined with collaborative agreements with regional, UK and Canadian universities will make available more opportunities for Turks and Caicos Islanders to obtain a first degree.” The Government is committed to the holistic development of the youth, he said, and has delivered on its promise to reinstate the Cadet’s Corps and the Youth Parliament programmes. It will increase the funding to the Youth Department to aid the expansion of existing and the implementation of new youth programmes. The Government is also committed to the redevelopment of existing recreation parks such as the NJS Francis Park, South Back Salina Park and the development of new recreational parks and sporting

continued From 

facilities throughout the islands. SAFETY AND SECURITY The throne speech went on to say that the security and safety of the TCI’s communities, streets and borders are essential to the sustainable development of the nation. “We are committed to working with and providing increased funding and resources to the many front line agencies such as the various police branches, Immigration and Customs to protect our land and citizens therein. “We are committed to enforcing stricter control of illegal immigration that can be detrimental to the health, safety and economic wellbeing of the people of these Islands. “To this end we are committed to addressing illegal immigration activities and irregularities in residency with the introduction of new enforcement programmes and new legislation that speaks to residency and Turks and Caicos Islander status.” Beckingham continued: “Our achievements to date as a Government is due to the hard work and dedication of civil servants, and to them my Government says thank you.” The completion of the reading was met with a round of applause and banging of fists on the tables. A throne speech reports on the condition of the nation and allows the monarch’s representative to outline the legislative agenda, for which the cooperation of parliament is needed, along with national priorities.

while learning at the same time.” This is the first year the foundation has included all Government public schools in their Education Week reading with Sesame Street activity. Neekimo King, principal of Beaches’ neighbouring school Ianthe Pratt, also commented on the reading visit.

“Our students had a great time reading with Grover; we thank Beaches and the Sandals Foundation [for] including our Ianthe Pratt’s kindergarten class in their Education Week story time reading initiatives.” In addition to reading sessions, the foundation also hosted a series of educational events to celebrate the 2015 Education Week.

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

Shadow By Holly M

As the darkness set I am compelled by your lucid beauty I am seized by your radiant light But you’re nothing but a figment of imagination A truth that I for one thought once disappeared You are now exposed to a world that is unknown! The outline of your silhouette, Once left me craving, For a desire I thought was dismayed I long to watch you unfold; And become reformed at your leisure Majestically! You came into this life and disrupted every fibre... Capturing an identity I believe was faded, The cascade of emotions weary my expectation These streams of cloudy vision Portray you as nothing less than a cruel monster Fabricated by luminous illusions If your truth is revealed You would be drawn identical to those who fear you Your intentions might be unclear To those who perceive you as nothing but a trace of darkness However, I am left smothered by your scattering light What a dismay, to know that time had took pride in consuming your worth? When the lights goes off; a lifetime of you will be erased Leaving nothing for the naked eye If only you could have touched or feel you Would you believe you were real? Somehow this is not the ability you possess It is evident! The smallest fragment in the sky it makes you work! However, to you it is all worthless! You’ve analysed yourself as the centre of timeless dirt Staple underneath shimmering blue skies and glistening sun But you are familiar with the disguised They are never lost! You would obey and fall victim at their request, Believing that you are nothing; Lies! You are great at everything Forever and always the most radiant shadow on the wall!

Lifestyle... 16

March 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.

Growing orchids on trees ORCHIDS are different from houseplants. Unlike palms, ferns or philodendrons, orchids grow on rocks and trees, not in the ground. In fact planting an orchid in potting soil and treating it like a houseplant is a sure way to kill it. To copy nature, orchids are planted in bark, moss, coconut husks, etc. Growing plants in these types of media is different from growing

houseplants in potting soil. But have you ever seen orchids that look like they are naturally growing on trees? Well, this is what they do in the wild but humans have decided to put them up and bring them indoors. Get them back outside and you will be amazed at how much happier they look! This is a fun project that you

can do in your garden and it can be completed quickly and is great for kids as well. Find some dreaded panty hose. I assure you, this is the only good use for these uncomfortable things, especially here in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The nude colour blends in the most and knee-highs are easier to work with than the kind that swallows up the entire lower half of your body. If you only have the latter type, you can cut off the leg portions to make your own knee-highs; just don’t attempt to actually wear these as knee highs or you will be very disappointed. Get some orchids and keep in mind, not any orchid will do, you will want to be selective and contemplate the location a bit. Most orchids are happier when

they are attached to trees rather than when they are stuffed into pots. Dendrobiums, Phalaenopsis, Oncidiums, Vandas and Cattleyas usually do very well. Purchase some sphagnum moss if necessary, but if your orchid is presently potted it may have moss already in the pot around the roots which can be reused. Location! Location! Location! Most orchids like filtered light, not too shady and not too sunny. Palms with ‘boots’ (bases of old fronds that are still stuck to the trunk) have ready-made pockets; just make sure the boots are secure. Sometimes, boots that are lower on the trunk will fall off and take the orchids with them. If you are tying them around the trunk of a selfheading palm (where the fronds fall off without having to be cut), make

sure you don’t tie an orchid around the top of the palm containing the sheath of the next frond to fall off. Canopy trees like lignum vitae, shady lady olive trees and mahoganies make great orchid supports as well. Cut a hole in the middle of the knee-high and put most of the root system inside with a little bit of moss to help retain moisture. The open hole should face the trunk so that the panty hose side faces outward. This will allow the roots to make contact with the trunk so they can attach. Once they attach, the panty hose can be cut off or they may have disintegrated by this time. Take the legs and wrap them tightly around the trunk and tie them in a knot to secure the orchid to the trunk or branch. If the plant is top heavy, you can tie a second band loosely around the upper part of the plant or bloom spike. Water them. You can run spaghetti tube irrigation up the trunks with small emitters to water them with your existing sprinkler system, but it’s not very elegant or you can hope for rain (what rain!) or water them by hand with a mister, watering can or light spray from a hose. Orchid fertiliser is often not necessary but may be helpful if they aren’t blooming or if they look chlorotic (off-colour).

POLICE SAFETY TIPS

The problem with sexting ‘SEXTING’ refers to sending a text message with pictures of the sender that are inappropriate, naked or engaged in sex acts. Many of our young boys and girls have sent such messages. The emotional pain it causes can be enormous for the child in the picture as well as the sender and receiver, often with legal implications. Parents must begin the difficult conversation about sexting before there is a problem and introduce the issue as soon as a child is old enough to have a cell phone. Sexting can happen for lots of reasons. Some people might feel like everyone else is doing it and want to fit in with friends - especially if they are boasting about sending or having photos on their mobile phone. Some people worry about being seen as not sexy and go along with things they are uncomfortable with. Others may feel under pressure to sext as a way of

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.

proving their sexuality. Others may feel harassed, threatened or blackmailed into sending pictures. Some may even feel it is easier just to give in to somebody who keeps asking for things.

Some may think they owe their boyfriends or made to feel guilty if they do not do what is asked of them. There are also persons who may be in love with the person and trust them completely and feel like it is okay. Another reason is that people

who have a long distance or online relationship with someone and want to have a sexual relationship with them. Then there are those who feel proud of their bodies and want to share it with other people. Before you send a photo, think about: What could happen to it? Once you press send, it’s no longer in your control. It can be posted anywhere on the internet. It could end up on social networking sites or even porn sites. Who might see it? Don’t send anything you would not want your parents seeing. Even if you completely trust someone, other people using their phone might accidentally see it. What are the risks? Even if you use

a webcam or an app like Snapchat, the person can take a screen shot in seconds. Who are you sending it to? Would you feel weird if you were going to do something sexual with them in person? Why do you want to send it? If you want to impress somebody, you can do it in other ways. In most cases, sexting can have the opposite effect and you could be seen as somebody you’re not. I can be contacted at 431-3763 or audley.astwood@tcipolice.tc to speak at church, school or other events to help end sexting among children in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

March 7 - 13, 2015

Lifestyle...

Makeup and skin care 

ECO Tip  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.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

By Lynn Robinson

Thea LoweGangasingh

Thea Lowe-Gangasingh is a professional makeup artist based in Providenciales certified with Chic Studios NYC. To book an appointment for any occasion with Thea Makeup Artistry email info@theamakeupartistry.com or call 242-4627.

Caring for Meatless Mondays your cosmetics

ONE very effective way to help the planet and our health is to cut down on the amount of animal products consumed every day. More people around the world are now eating a wholefoods, plantbased diet including many endurance athletes and body builders. But if you are still addicted to eating meat why not try going meatless for just one day a week Meatless Monday was started in 2003 as a way of educating the public. Although this was not a new idea as during World War I, the US Food Administration urged families to reduce consumption of key staples to aid the war effort and the campaign returned during World War II. Meatless Monday is now a global movement in more than 36 countries encouraging people to reduce their meat intake if only for just one day. Going meatless can help the environment immensely as the water need of livestock is much greater than that of vegetables and grains. Approximately 1,850 gallons of water are needed to produce a single pound of beef. Now compare that to the 39 gallons of water needed to produce a pound of vegetables. Greenhouse gasses can be reduced substantially as meat production produces significantly more carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide, the three main contributing sources of greenhouse gases.

Studies have found beef to produce a total of 30kg of greenhouse gas per kg of food while carrots produce 0.42kg of greenhouse gas per kg of food. Animal agriculture makes a 40 percent greater contribution to global warming than all transportation in the world combined. It is the number one cause of climate change and nearly one third of the land surface of the planet is dedicated to livestock. The health benefits of reducing meat intake cannot be ignored. Going meatless for just one day a week may reduce your risk of chronic preventable conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity. Vegetables, fruits and whole grains have been shown to reduce heart disease and strokes and there is more evidence that red meat and processed meat consumption can increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Evidence suggests that eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can increase longevity and by avoiding processed foods you can also improve the nutritional quality of your diet. Healthy meatless recipes can be found all over the internet including one of my favourite sites, www. deliciouslyella.com. For more information check out www.meatlessmonday.com.

SO YOU’VE had a few cosmetics in your possession for months or even years, how do you know what to let go of and what you can still use? While using old eye shadows and foundation won’t make you ill, you may find that they can cause breakouts and irritation or may not even apply as well as when they were brand new. Some cosmetics do have a symbol of a jar on the packaging that indicates once opened “use within” a specific timeframe. It can state 3m [months], 6m, 12m, 18m or 24m and looks similar to these: If, however your product(s) does not have a symbol or the symbol has worn off, you can simply follow these tips on caring for your cosmetics and protecting yourself from bacteria and germs. Mascara

Shelf life - three months

Mascara should be discarded or changed as soon as you notice it getting clumpy or smells weird. One important thing to keep in mind is that a tube of mascara is a dark moist environment and the perfect place for bacteria to thrive so it is best to change it out often to prevent eye infections. Never share your mascara with others, if you must, ensure it is a new tube and you are using disposable

products, bacteria will thrive if dirty brushes or fingers are introduced into the container. Powder eye shadows and foundation

Shelf life - two years

wands…and no double-dipping! Cosmetic pencils

Shelf life - two years

Sharpening your pencils removes old debris and keeping them covered securely ensures dust and dirt will not get to the product which can then cause eye irritation or even infection. You can also go one step further and sanitise the pencil by spraying the tip with isopropyl alcohol to kill any harmful bacteria. Cream eye shadows Shelf life - six months

Since the product is dry, it is less prone to contamination. Aging pressed powder shadows and foundation can have performance issues as they become packed down and difficult to pick up with a brush, so do keep this in mind. Liquid and cream foundation or concealer

Shelf life - six months

To prevent premature spoilage/ contamination, avoid dipping fingers or dirty brushes into the product. Simply pour or scoop out a small amount using a clean spatula or cotton swab. If your foundation changes colour or smells weird, it’s time to replace it. Lipstick

Always use a clean disposable spatula or cotton swab to scoop out a small amount of shadow when needed to avoid contaminating the entire container. Since there is moisture in cream

Shelf life - two years

• Cool the cakes in the pans, then turn them out. • Sandwich together the cakes by spreading the raspberry jam in the middle and dredge the top with icing or confectioner’s sugar.

• If you wish, you can also add a layer of buttercream in the middle made by beating together 4oz icing or confectioner’s sugar with 2oz softened butter, or alternatively, a layer of whipped fresh cream.

Lip gloss

Shelf life - one year If you notice your lipstick or gloss has changed texture, colour or smell, it’s probably expired.

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!

Victoria sandwich cake INGREDIENTS • 8oz butter, softened but not melted • 8oz caster or extra-fine sugar • 4 eggs • 8oz all-purpose flour • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 4 tablespoons raspberry jam • Icing/confectioner’s sugar for dredging METHOD • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and line two eight inch cake pans.

• Sift together the flour and baking powder into a small bowl. • Beat together the butter and caster sugar in a large mixing bowl until very pale, fluffy and smooth. • Beat in the eggs one at a time. With each egg addition, add one tablespoon of the flour and baking powder mixture to prevent curdling, and mix in fully before adding the next egg. • Fold in the remaining flour and baking powder mixture. • Mix until well combined, but do not over-mix.

• Divide the mixture equally between the two cake pans and gently smooth into the corners, levelling the tops. • Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top of each cake is golden and the top springs back when lightly pressed.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 7 - 13, 2015

Science & Technology

‘First human’ discovered in Ethiopia Scientists have unearthed the jawbone of what they claim is one of the very first humans. The 2.8 million-year-old specimen is 400,000 years older than researchers thought that our kind first emerged. The discovery in Ethiopia suggests climate change spurred the transition from tree dweller to upright walker. The head of the research team told BBC News that the find gives the first insight into “the most important transitions in human evolution”. Prof Brian Villmoare of the University of Nevada in Las Vegas said the discovery makes a clear link between an iconic 3.2 million-yearold hominin (human-like primate) discovered in the same area in 1974, called “Lucy”. Could Lucy’s kind - which belonged to the species Australopithecus afarensis - have evolved into the very first primitive humans? “That’s what we are arguing,” said Prof Villmoare. But the fossil record between the time period when Lucy and her kin were alive and the emergence of Homo erectus (with its relatively

large brain and humanlike body proportions) two million years ago is sparse. The 2.8 million-year-old lower jawbone was found in the Ledi-Geraru research area, Afar Regional State, by Ethiopian student Chalachew Seyoum. He told BBC News that he was “stunned” when he saw the fossil. “The moment I found it, I realised that it was important, as this is the time period represented by few (human) fossils in Eastern Africa.” The fossil is of the left side of the lower jaw, along with five teeth. The back molar teeth are smaller than those of other hominins living in the area and are one of the features that distinguish humans from more primitive ancestors, according to Professor William Kimbel, director of Arizona State University’s Institute of Human Origins. “Previously, the oldest fossil attributed to the genus Homo was an upper jaw from Hadar, Ethiopia, dated to 2.35m years ago,” he told BBC News. “So this new discovery pushes the human line back by 400,000 years or so, very close to its likely (pre-

The fossil’s teeth are smaller than those of other human relatives.

human) ancestor. Its mix of primitive and advanced features makes the Ledi jaw a good transitional form between (Lucy) and later humans.” A computer reconstruction of a skull belonging to the species Homo habilis, which has been published in Nature journal, indicates that it may well have been the evolutionary descendant of the species announced today. The researcher involved, Prof Fred Spoor of University College London told BBC News that, taken together, the new findings had lifted a veil on a key period in the evolution of our species. “By discovering a new fossil and re-analysing an old one we have truly contributed to our knowledge of our own evolutionary period, stretching over a million years that had been shrouded in mystery,” he said. The dating of the jawbone might help answer one of the key questions in human evolution. What caused some primitive ancestors to climb down from the trees and make their homes on the ground.

A separate study in Science hints that a change in climate might have been a factor. An analysis of the fossilised plant and animal life in the area suggests that what had once been lush forest had become dry grassland. As the trees made way for vast plains, ancient human-like primates found a way of exploiting the new environmental niche, developing bigger brains and becoming less reliant on having big jaws and teeth by using tools. Prof Chris Stringer of the Natural History Museum in London described the discovery as a “big story”. He says the new species clearly does show the earliest step toward human characteristics, but suggests that half a jawbone is not enough to tell just how human it was and does not provide enough evidence to suggest that it was this line that led to us. He notes that the emergence of human-like characteristics was not unique to Ethiopia.

“The human-like features shown by Australopithecus sediba in South Africa at around 1.95 million years ago are likely to have developed independently of the processes which produced (humans) in East Africa, showing that parallel origins are a distinct possibility,” Prof Stringer explained. This would suggest several different species of humans coexisting in Africa around two million years ago with only one of them surviving and eventually evolving into our species, Homo sapiens. It is as if nature was experimenting with different versions of the same evolutionary configuration until one succeeded. Prof Stringer added: “These new studies leave us with an even more complex picture of early humans than we thought, and they challenge us to consider the very definition of what it is to be human. Are we defined by our small teeth and jaws, our large brain, our long legs, toolmaking, or some combination of these traits?” (BBC)

Cut music to ‘an hour a day’ - WHO PEOPLE should listen to music for no more than one hour a day to protect their hearing, the World Health Organization suggests. It says 1.1 billion teenagers and young adults are at risk of permanently damaging their hearing by listening to “too much, too loudly”. It said audio players, concerts and bars were posing a “serious threat”. WHO figures show 43 million people aged 12-35 have hearing loss and the prevalence is increasing. In that age group, the WHO said, half of people in rich and middleincome countries were exposed to unsafe sound levels from personal audio devices. Meanwhile 40% were exposed to damaging levels of sound from clubs and bars. The proportion of US teenagers with hearing loss went from 3.5% in

1994 to 5.3% in 2006. Dr Etienne Krug, the WHO’s director for injury prevention, told the BBC: “What we’re trying to do is raise awareness of an issue that is not talked about enough, but has the potential to do a lot of damage that can be easily prevented.” The full report argued: “While it is important to keep the volume down, limiting the use of personal audio devices to less than one hour a day would do much to reduce noise exposure.” Dr Krug said that a good ambition aim: “That’s a rough recommendation, it is not by the minute, to give an idea to those spending 10 hours a day listening to an mp3-player. “But even an hour can be too much if the volume is too loud.” The World Health Organisation recommends keeping the volume to

60% of the maximum as a good rule of thumb. For people trying to drown out the noise of flying or train journeys, it says noise-cancelling headphones allow music to be heard clearly at a lower volume. And the WHO adds that ear plugs should be worn at noisy venues and advises taking “listening breaks” and standing far away from speakers at gigs. But what is the point of a concert if you are going to avoid the music? “We do realise this is a bit of a struggle, like alcohol consumption, so many risk factors linked to pleasure are not easy to change, but we have to make people aware,” Dr Krug said. But as well as calling for personal responsibility, the WHO says governments and manufacturers have a responsibility.

WHO says 1.1 billion teenagers and young adults are at risk of permanently damaging their hearing by listening to “too much, too loudly”.

It says clubs should provide chill-out rooms and give out free ear plugs, headphone manufacturers should set limits on the volume, and governments need to adopt stricter laws. Paul Breckell, the chief executive of the charity Action

on Hearing Loss, said: ‘When listening to loud music, for every three decibel increase in level, to stay safe you should halve your listening time. “For example, at 88 dB, safe allowable exposure is cut to four hours, at 91 dB, two hours and so on.

March 7 - 13, 2015

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology Ubisoft’s tablet video game combats lazy eye condition

The study found that people who drank a moderate amount of coffee - three to five cups a day - were less likely to have early signs of heart disease on their medical scans.

Regular coffee drinkers have ‘cleaner’ arteries DRINKING a few cups of coffee a day may help people avoid clogged arteries - a known risk factor for heart disease - Korean researchers believe. They studied more than 25,000 male and female employees who underwent routine health checks at their workplace. Employees who drank a moderate amount of coffee - three to five cups a day - were less likely to have early signs of heart disease on their medical scans. The findings reopen the debate about whether coffee is good for the heart. There is a lot of confusion when it comes to the effect of coffee on heart health. Some studies have linked consumption to heart risk factors, such as raised cholesterol or blood pressure, while others suggest the beverage may offer some heart protection. But there is no conclusive

evidence either way, and the latest research from South Korea, which is published in the journal Heart, only adds to the discussion. In the study, the researchers used medical scans to assess heart health. Specifically, they were looking for any disease of the arteries supplying the heart - the coronary arteries. In coronary heart disease, the coronary arteries become clogged by the gradual build-up of fatty material within their walls. The scan the researchers used looks for tiny deposits of calcium in the walls of the coronary arteries to provide an early clue that this disease process may be occurring. None of the employees included in the Korean study had outward signs of heart disease, but more than one in 10 of them were found to have visible calcium deposits on their scans.

UBISOFT has announced it is working on a video game to combat an eye disorder that can cause reduced vision. Dig Rush is designed to be played on tablets by people diagnosed as having Amblyopia - also known as “lazy eye”. The condition affects an estimated one in 50 children, according to the NHS, and often causes them to see less clearly out of one eye than the other. Ubisoft said it hoped the game would be “more engaging and enjoyable” than existing treatments. The technique involved was developed by researchers at McGill University in Montreal, Canada, who initially carried out tests using a version of the blocks-turning game Tetris before publicising their discovery in 2013. French developer Ubisoft is best known for making entertainmentfocused video games including the Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry series, as well as the choreography-focused franchise Just Dance. Its announcement was timed to coincide with the Game Developers Conference (GDC) in San Francisco. Dig Rush requires the patient to wear blue-red stereoscopic glasses similar to the ones used for old 3D movies - while playing. It works by showing some of its graphics in blue and some in red at differing levels of contrast, so that each of the objects they represent becomes harder to see by one of the eyes. This forces the player to use both their dominant and weaker eyes together in order to make progress, rather than just relying on their stronger one or only seldom using the weaker one. Through repeated training,

Amblyotech suggests people will be more willing to play the game than wear an eye patch to treat the condition.

the player’s brain should learn to improve co-ordination of both eyes, helping the weak eye relearn how to see and potentially improving their sense of depth as a result. Ubisoft said doctors would have the ability to adjust the game’s settings to suit specific patients’ conditions. Left untreated, Amblyopia can result in the central vision of a person’s “lazy eye” never reaching normal levels. Studies carried out by the McGill team suggest two-thirds of people who play such games regularly should experience improved vision in their weaker eye. Amblyotech - a company that bought the researchers’ invention and licensed it to Ubisoft - said it believed the game was more effective than alternative techniques. “Current treatments options, such as eye patching, provide limited relief and have poor patient compliance due to discomfort and

social stigmas,” said Joseph Koziak, Amblyotech’s chief executive. He suggested that both children and adults could benefit from the treatment. Amblyotech is currently seeking permission from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market the therapy in the US. It acknowledges it will have to go through similar approval processes elsewhere before the game can be made available. The Royal College of Ophthalmologists - which represents eye doctors in the UK - said it would need to see further evidence before being able to support the idea of medics prescribing the title. “The use of digital media is and has been researched and studied and shown to have some benefit,” said a spokeswoman. “As with all treatments, their use must be based on scientific research and evidence to ensure a safe and effective benefit for patients.” (BBC)

atmospheric concentrations of "normal" water (H2O) to "heavy water" (HDO), in which one hydrogen atom is replaced with an atom of the

isotope deuterium. They discovered that the concentration of deuterium over the polar ice caps is now much higher than is seen in Earth's oceans.

Mars once had a vast ocean covering onefifth of its surface, new research suggests Scientists have long known there was once water on Mars, but just how much? New research suggests that the Red Planet was way wetter than scientists thought. In fact, it seems that large portions of the Martian surface were flooded under a vast ocean--and that seems to have increased the odds that Mars was once habitable. The research, an analysis of chemical "signatures" in the Martian atmosphere, indicates that some 4.2 billion years ago a body of water bigger than the Arctic Ocean covered

nearly one-fifth of the planet's surface. This ocean likely contained a whopping 5 million cubic miles of water, with a maximum depth of one mile. “Ten years ago, the story of water on Mars was an occasional flood of rocky debris every 100m years that then switched off again," John Bridges, a Leicester University planetary scientist who works on NASA’s Curiosity rover mission, told The Guardian. "We now know it’s more continuous. There were long-standing bodies of water: lakes, deltas and perhaps even seas. It

seems to me that we have excellent evidence that Mars was once habitable, though whether it was ever inhabited is not clear." For the research, scientists at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland analyzed observations of the atmosphere above Mars' north and south poles made over the course of six years by the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope in northern Chile and the W.M. Keck Observatory and NASA Infrared Telescope Facility in Hawaii. The scientists compared the

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Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 7 - 13, 2015

Jamaica remains the largest producer of marijuana in region A REPORT by the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) has found that Jamaica remains the largest illicit producer and exporter of cannabis herb in Central America and the Caribbean. The INCB 2014 report released here, showed that the island accounts for approximately one third of cannabis herb produced in the Caribbean. It said that increased production of the drug has been noted in other countries, in particular Dominica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. “Jamaica has also become a hub for the trafficking of cocaine, owing to the displacement of trafficking routes as a result of the strengthening of drug trafficking countermeasures in Latin America,” the report stated, noting that the problem is compounded by the “fact that Jamaican criminal groups are using the elaborate networks originally established to traffick cannabis and cocaine as well. The report, which examines the global trade in illegal drugs, noted that in Jamaica, drug trafficking takes place at airports through drug couriers, baggage and air freight and at seaports via containers, cargo vessels, underwater canisters attached to ship hulls, shipping vessels and speedboats. “Illicit drugs are traded for money, guns and other goods, and much of the proceeds are used to foster criminal activities. The ports of Kingston and Montego Bay, which are used for the bulk movement of containerized shipments of cannabis herb and cocaine to Europe and North America, continue to experience serious issues involving corruption, violence, intimidation and the circumvention of legal controls.”. The INCB said that in addition, illicit drugs are often attached to the

Edmund Lewis Jr, 28, is alleged to have produced child pornography videos between July 2014 and January 21, 2015.

The INCB 2014 report released states that the island accounts for approximately one third of cannabis herb produced in the Caribbean.

bottom of shipping vessels destined for Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago. It noted that in 2013, Jamaica had the Caribbean’s second-highest reported murder rate, behind the much smaller Saint Kitts and Nevis, with 1,197 homicides, up nine per cent from 1,099 in 2012. In 2013, the Jamaica government eradicated 247 hectares of cannabis plant, compared with 711 hectares the previous year. “The total area of cannabis plant cultivation in Jamaica was estimated at 15,000 hectares, out of total arable land of approximately 120,000 hectares. Statistics indicate that 30,900 kg of cannabis were seized in 2013, compared with 66,832 kg in 2012. “Cannabis trafficking organizations in Jamaica focus on trafficking directly to Canada and the United Kingdom, as well as to the Bahamas, the Cayman Islands, the Dominican Republic and Haiti, for onward shipment to Europe and North America.

“There has also been a significant increase in shipments of cannabis herb to Barbados, Guyana, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, and Curaçao, in some cases in exchange for cocaine trafficked back to Jamaica,” the report stated, adding that “heroin and “ecstasy” have entered the Jamaican domestic market in small amounts only during the past few years”. It said that with respect to cocaine, official statistics indicate that 1,230 kg of cocaine were seized in Jamaica in 2013, compared with 338 kg in 2012. “Organized criminal groups from South and Central America and local groups continue to take advantage of the country’s weak State and police structures. Corruption, along with porous maritime borders, with isolated beaches and coastal villages, and the country’s status as a popular tourist destination and major container trans-shipment point, further facilitate the tra!cking of illicit drugs between Jamaica and North America, Europe and elsewhere in the Caribbean.”

Bahamas: Cop accused of making child porn back in court A FORMER police officer is one hearing closer to the expected start of his trial in connection with the production of child pornography in the Bahamas. Edmund Lewis Jr appeared before Chief Magistrate Joyann FergusonPratt yesterday for a status hearing to determine which magistrate in the Nassau and South Streets complex would be presiding over his case. Chief Magistrate Ferguson-Pratt transferred the matter to court number eight before Magistrate Andrew Forbes and set a fixture hearing before his court on March 17. On that date, Lewis will know when his trial is expected to begin. Lewis, 28, is alleged to have

produced child pornography videos between July 2014 and January 21, 2015. The former constable was first arraigned on January 23 and denied bail. He was dismissed from the Royal Bahamas Police Force shortly after charges were filed against him. He elected to be tried in Magistrates Court and was granted $5,000 bail days after being rearraigned due to an “inadvertent error” at his first court appearance where he should have been given the option to be tried in either the Magistrate’s Court or Supreme Court and enter a plea to the charges. Lewis is represented by Wayne Munroe, QC.

Nepal and Philippine nationals scammed in St. Lucia POLICE say more people are expected to be arrested in relation to a scam that resulted in a group of at least 20 nationals from Nepal and the Philippines being left stranded in St. Lucia. Police have already charged four people, three from Indian and the other from Bangladesh, in the scam after members of the group claimed that they had responded to an offer of education in hospitality, cruise and business management, from Lambirds Academy based in northern town of Gros Islet. The Asians said they each paid $US9, 000 each for the courses and $US13,000 each to get to St Lucia, but on arrival here were told by law enforcement authorities that they had been duped. The police have named the

four arrested as Iftekhar Ahmed Shams, Koushal Kumar Batukbhai Chadasama, Ashwin Kanji Patel and Gurjeet Singh Vilkhu. The all gave addresses here in St. Lucia and will re-appear in court on March 11. Deputy Police Commissioner Frances Henry told a news conference Tuesday more persons are likely to be charged soon and that during the police investigations, 60 individuals of Indian ethnicity have been questioned by the authorities. “I can say with much confidence you will see that other charges being preferred against the individuals we have in custody and other persons we are seeking after,” she said. Police said they are also in possession of a number of documents that could assist in their investigations.

Henry said that the number of foreign nationals coming from Nepal and the Philippines did not immediately raise a red flag, because there are many persons who come here to pursue studies at various institutions. She also explained why the four men were charged with human trafficking offences and not fraud. “Conditions under which the purported students lived were beyond what was expected for human dignity, they have been moved to a location that we identified to be in keeping with what human beings are expected to be living at,” she said. The deputy top cop said that police would be engaging international partners and agencies, in an effort to ascertain whether the scam has roots outside of St. Lucia. (CMC)

The $89 million USD project will see the construction of a 36.3-megawatt wind farm that uses 11 wind turbines.

Jamaica breaks ground on $89 million wind farm project JAMAICA has broken ground on a major new wind farm project in St Elizabeth. The $89 million USD project will see the construction of a 36.3-megawatt wind farm that uses 11 wind turbines. Power will then be transmitted to the national grid running from the farm to the JPS’ substation in Manchester. “The price of electricity must

come down. I have a view as to where it must get for Jamaica to become first world, and for us to be highly competitive,” said Jamaica Minister of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining Phillip Paulwell. “It won’t happen in three years, it probably won’t happen in five years, but my view is that we have to have a minimum of about US18 cents per kilowatt hour for us to achieve that target.”

March 7 - 13, 2015

Regional News

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Cuba, Cayman talks set to resume on status of refugees

The airline, citing a recommendation from the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), said that e-cigarettes are a fire risk and that they “mainly use lithium cells to heat liquid nicotine into a vapour”.

LIAT bans e-cigarettes as part of checked luggage, cites fire risk THE regional airline, LIAT, says it is banning with immediate effect, the carriage of e-cigarettes in checked luggage and urged regional countries to adopt a united position on the matter. The airline, citing a recommendation from the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), said that e-cigarettes are a fire risk and that they “mainly use lithium cells to heat liquid nicotine into a vapour”. LIAT said that these devices have, in some instances, overheated or caught fire when the heating element was accidentally activated. It said that the FAA pointed to two recent incidents in the United States. “In the first incident, e-cigarettes

packed in a passenger’s checked bag in the cargo hold of a passenger aircraft caused a fire that forced an evacuation of the aircraft. In the second incident, a checked bag that had missed its flight was found to be on fire in a baggage area. Emergency responders attributed the fire to an overheated e-cigarette inside the bag.” LIAT said that airport security in the territories in which it operates have not yet confirmed a unified stance on the carriage of e-cigarettes in carry-on baggage. “It is therefore recommended passengers should not carry e-cigarettes in their cabin baggage either, so they don’t lose their devices if the airport security decides to remove them.

REPRESENTATIVES from Havana and George Town will meet soon for further negotiations on an agreement regarding treatment and repatriation of Cuban migrants, with Cayman seeking to stem costs likely to exceed the US$1 million from the last government budget year, officials said. Wesley Howell, deputy chief officer in the Ministry of Home Affairs and a member of Cayman’s delegation to the long-delayed talks, said 88 Cubans passed through Cayman in January, eclipsing the 24-per-month average in 2014 and only four per month in 2013. Since late January, more than 75 Cuban migrants have passed through or landed in Cayman Brac.

TCI SPENDING The Turks and Caicos Islands and the Bahamas also spent more than US$1 million last year on Cuban refugees. In 2012 and 2013, Cayman spent more than $800,000 to house, feed and repatriate Cuban migrants. Refugees detained by the Immigration Department are housed at a detention facility in Fairbanks, which accommodates up to 30 people. However, more than 30 migrants frequently arrive in a single boatload. Meanwhile, according to Cuba’s ambassador to Jamaica Bernardo Guanche Hernandez, the U.S. refugee policy known informally as “wet foot/dry foot” remains in place,

driving an exodus from Cuba. Under that policy – a consequence of the 1995 revision of the Cuban Adjustment Act of 1966 – a Cuban caught on the waters between the two nations (with “wet feet”) is sent home or to a third country. Those who make it to shore (“dry feet”) get a chance to remain in the U.S. and later qualify for expedited legal permanent resident status, and eventually U.S. citizenship. “The Cuban Adjustment Act and the wet foot/dry foot policy are still strong incentives for irregular migration from Cuba,” Ambassador Guanche said, “and they have an impact also on the Cayman Islands.” In the wake of President Obama’s policy shift toward opening up relations between the two countries, many Cubans fear the Cuban Adjustment Act may be suspended or abolished. Mr. Howell said he believes these concerns are likely driving increasing numbers of Cubans to flee. He said talks on a new HavanaGeorge Town memorandum of understanding are “progressing via diplomatic channels,” adding they have been “taking longer than expected.” Talks were last held in September 2014. “We are hopeful to sign a new agreement with Cuba in the coming months,” he said. The agreement currently in effect dates to 1999. It established a sevenday time frame for notifying Havana

about refugee arrivals and identifying the individuals involved. There were concerns that any identification might compromise refugee claims for political asylum. However, Mr. Howell said, “Repatriations typically take three to six weeks, but can be significantly longer than that, with some repatriations taking up to three to five months.” Adding to the delays is what Mr. Howell called a “double approval” process, whereby Cayman establishes the identities of the refugees, but then must wait for Havana to confirm the information. Finally, both sides must agree to the schedule for repatriation flights. The flights, all on Cayman Airways, are part of overall processing costs. “Cayman Airways for safety reasons have a limit as to how many repatriated migrants can be flown on a scheduled commercial flight with other passengers,” Mr. Howell said. “Therefore, the costs for repatriation can range from a few seats when buying seats on a scheduled flight to Havana ... to higher costs when a charter flight is required for larger numbers of migrants. These costs can range from several tickets at approximately US$300 each on a scheduled flight to a charter flight of approximately US$10,000. “All costs are borne by the Cayman Islands government,” he said. (Cayman Compass)

Cayman Islands: Police Christie blasts ‘rich doctors’ over criticism of NHI plan officers charged over taser use TWO police officers alleged to have used a taser on a suspect following a high speed car chase across Grand Cayman are facing criminal charges. The two police constables – Cardiff Robinson and Austin Etienne – are accused of using excessive force during the incident in May last year. The pair, who appeared in summary court Wednesday charged with common assault, have been placed on desk duty by the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service pending the outcome of the case. Neither man has yet entered a plea on the assault charges. The incident followed a 20-mile chase across the island, involving patrol cars and the police helicopter, after a suspect refused to stop for officers investigating reports of a disturbance in George Town. When the driver was eventually stopped in East End, he was allegedly tasered. Police spokesman Superintendent Adrian Seales confirmed the officers

alleged to have fired the weapons had been transferred to administrative roles. He declined to comment further. Robinson, 29, and Etienne, 44, were bailed to return to court on April 15. Officers in the Uniform Support Group of the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service have been equipped with tasers since early 2013. The weapons, also known as stun guns, fire probes attached to wires to deliver an electric shock to suspects. When the weapons were first introduced, Police Commissioner David Baines said there would be a rigorous investigation process for each taser use. He said the weapons were fitted with high definition cameras to ensure full accountability. “Taser Cam is a great tool. It automatically starts recording video and sound every time the Taser is drawn from its holster and aimed at an offender,” Mr. Baines said in a media statement.

PRIME Minister Perry Christie on Tuesday defended the government’s proposal to implement its proposed National Health Insurance scheme and lashed out at “rich doctors” and politicians who have the money to afford private healthcare. Mr Christie said while health insurance for politicians is “provided by the state”, there are people in this country who die every day because they “cannot afford to buy their own health insurance”. Mr Christie’s comments came after two prominent doctors within the Free National Movement, former deputy chairman Dr Duane Sands and Opposition Leader Dr Hubert Minnis, both suggested that the move to implement a new tax or taxes to fund NHI, coupled with the government’s previous implementation of value added tax, would further cripple the poor and middle class. Costa Rican accounting firm Sanigest Internacional provided a report to the government last October on the feasibility of NHI and presented options for financing

PM Christie said that while health insurance for politicians is: “provided by the state”; there are people in this country who die every day because they “cannot afford to buy their own health insurance”.

universal healthcare. According to the report, of which The Tribune has obtained a copy, the consultants have suggested a payroll tax ranging from one per cent to five per cent to finance NHI. The report explores various other revenue-raising options including

levying a “sin tax” on alcohol and tobacco that would, the report estimates, yield some $64.93 million in NHI revenues in 2016, an estimate the report concedes is at the high end. This yield, Sanigest forecasts, will increase to $68 million in 2017 and $71.276 million in 2018, with the increases driven by economic growth. Another option identified is a tax on auto insurance premiums. According to the report, NHI could cost $633 million if implemented as a comprehensive package. Speaking on the issue at the British Colonial Hilton, however, Mr Christie said: “The state must always realise there are people in our country who . . .cannot afford to buy their own health insurance. And for politicians to know, their health insurance is contributed to by the state. And for rich doctors to know, they could buy it. But every day people die because they can’t afford it. And we have the nicety of public debates over what should we do and what price do we afford the human life.”

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Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

March 7 - 13, 2015

Twain announces final tour SINGER Shania Twain has announced her final tour. The star, whose 1997 album Come On Over remains the bestselling country album ever, will play 48 dates across the US and Canada, kicking off in June. “This is my last tour, so I’m going to make the most of it,” Twain said on US TV. “I want to go out with a bang.” The Rock This Country tour will be Twain’s first tour in more than 10 years, and follows a twoyear residency at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. “I feel that Las Vegas, the show, was a huge mountain to climb for me,” Twain - who turns 50 later this year - said on ABC’s Good Morning America. “I not only got through it, but I enjoyed it.” The Canadian singer became a massive star in the mid-1990s, with hits such as Man! I Feel Like A Woman and That Don’t Impress Me Much. Twain sold more than 75 million albums worldwide and became the best-selling female artist in the history of country

Chris Brown on-again, off-again girlfriend Karrueche Tran tweeted she could ‘only take so much’ after news broke Brown may have fathered a nine-month-old baby girl. Shania Twain will embark on a 48date tour from June to August.

music, but largely disappeared from the limelight between 2004 and 2009, citing personal issues and creative inertia. She returned to live performing in 2011. The new tour will begin in Seattle, before heading north to Canada, then

returning to the US for dates across the country - including New York, Washington and Miami. The “custom-made” tour will conclude in Fresno, California, days ahead of the singer’s birthday in August.

Brown’s alleged daughter is named Royalty: report CHRIS Brown may be the dad to Royalty — literally. The 25-year-old singer’s alleged love child was given the name Royalty,according to TMZ. The gossip site broke the news Tuesday that Brown reportedly fathered the nine-month-old little girl with 31-year-old former model

Nia Amey, but it’s unclear if he had any involvement in choosing her name. The “All Back” singer is apparently “regularly” in touch with Amey, who resides in Texas with the baby, and hopes to “openly participate” in the child’s life, TMZ noted.

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Entertainment Cosby accuser Jane Doe No. 2 reveals her identity A JANE Doe in the case involving Bill Cosby has now identified herself as Jennifer K. (Kayla) Thompson. The alleged victim originally was the second one to come forward and anonymously share her story of her Cosby experience. “It’s come to my understanding that there’s greater credibility for my testimony with a full name and an image,” Thompson, 44, tells People. “I am so very grateful for the Jane Doe who came before me in the lawsuit 10 years ago,” she adds. The former model admits that it was difficult for her to share her identity at first but as other women told their stories she felt more empowered. “At that time, to hear another woman’s support of one of Cosby’s victims by the admission of her own story was beyond affirming and I felt that a cloud that was above me began to lift off,” Thompson tells People.

More than 30 women have accused Bill Cosby of sexual assault.

“My mother and I were very eager to give our support via testimony at that time — however, not to the general public. I was not quite strong enough then.” Thompson hopes that by revealing her identity, it will

help back the 35 other women who’ve made claims against the comedian. The model who shared her story in the fall says that she’d “rather go to bed at night knowing that I’ve been honest.”

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Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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Williams denies Blurred Lines plagiarism claim PHARRELL Williams has denied copying Marvin Gaye’s Got to Give It Up for the hit single Blurred Lines. But the producer and singer agreed he was “channelling... that late-70s feeling” when he co-wrote the song. Williams, Robin Thicke and rapper TI are being sued by Gaye’s family over similarities between Gaye’s 1977 song the 2013 hit Blurred Lines. In court, Williams said Gaye’s work was not on his mind when he wrote the song, but he later recognised a likeness. “Sometimes when you look back on your past work, you see echoes of people.” “But that doesn’t mean that’s what you were doing,” Williams testified in court in Los Angeles. Williams, Thicke and rapper TI - real name Clifford Harris Jr - all deny copying Got to Give It Up for the song, a number one hit in 2013. Expressing his admiration for Gaye, Williams said: “The last thing you want to do as a creator is take something of someone else’s when you love him.”

Nine buildings in downtown Grantville are for sale on eBay, and the seller says it’s a bargain.

‘Walking Dead’ town for sale

Pharrell Williams says he respects Marvin Gaye’s music “beyond words”.

“I respect his music beyond words,” he added. During his testimony on Wednesday, the Happy star was played extracts of both his and Gaye’s compositions, stripped down to their basic song structure. Listening to the juxtaposed

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bass lines, Williams responded, “It sounds like you’re playing the same thing”, but argued that some of the note progressions had been shifted in pitch so they sounded more alike. His comments appeared to prompt Thicke, who was attending the trial, to leave the courtroom.

THE faded downtown of a small town in Georgia, made famous by an appearance on “The Walking Dead,” can now be yours for the right price. Nine buildings in downtown Grantville are for sale on eBay, and the seller says it’s a bargain. Jim Sells, Grantville’s former mayor, bought the buildings in a foreclosure deal about four years ago during the recession. Sells and another investor are now putting them on the market for the starting bid of $680,000.

The town was the setting for “Clear,” an episode in season 3 of the hit AMC television show, in which protagonist Rick Grimes returns to his abandoned hometown to look for weapons. A Facebook page offers walking tours of the town’s filming locations. But soon that won’t be Grantville’s only claim to fame, Sells says. The former mayor says four movies are slated to be shot in Grantville in upcoming months.

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World News

Election 2015: Cameron agrees to just one TV debate DAVID Cameron has said he will take part in only one televised debate ahead of the general election, featuring seven party leaders. The announcement rules out a head-to-head clash with Labour leader Ed Miliband ahead of the May 7 poll. Downing Street said it was a “final offer” and criticised the “chaos” of the negotiating process. Mr Miliband has accused the PM of “wriggling” out of the three debates proposed by broadcasters. On Twitter, Lib Dem Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg told Mr Cameron people wanted the debates to go ahead. He added: “Stop holding them to ransom by trying to dictate the terms.” The broadcasters said they would respond to the Conservatives’ proposal in due course. Under Mr Cameron’s proposal, one 90-minute contest would take place before 30 March, when the general election campaign is likely to start. Downing Street said the Democratic Unionist Party should also be considered for inclusion. It follows fierce debate over how the debates should be organised. BBC deputy political editor

Air quality may be enough to send people in poor health over the edge. The broadcasters proposed two live election debates featuring seven UK political parties.

James Landale said that with the Conservatives’ ultimatum, “water that was pretty muddy has just got muddier”. Broadcasters have proposed a total of three debates. The BBC and ITV were to hold two, both involving the Conservatives, Labour, Liberal Democrats, UKIP, Plaid Cymru, the SNP and the Greens. A third debate - hosted by Sky and Channel 4 - would feature a headto-head between Mr Cameron and Labour leader Ed Miliband. Mr Cameron has previously said the debates should take place before

the start of the election campaign, and has voiced concern about the exclusion of first the Green Party and then the DUP. Earlier, during Prime Minister’s Questions in the Commons, Mr Miliband accused Mr Cameron of trying to “avoid” their one-on-one debate. Sky and Channel 4 then offered to move the event to a different date if the leaders could agree. In a joint statement, broadcasters said: “The BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Sky have received an email from the prime minister’s office with a proposal.

Father: No proof my son is ‘Jihadi John’ A MAN who says he’s Mohammed Emwazi’s father has reportedly said there is no proof that his son is the masked ISIS killer known as “Jihadi John.” “There is nothing that proves what is being circulated in the media, especially through video clips and footage, that the accused is my son Mohammed, who is being referred to as the alleged executioner” of ISIS, Jassem Emwazi told the Kuwaiti newspaper al Qabas. Jassem Emwazi said there are only “false rumors” circulating about his son. The elder Emwazi told the newspaper he has hired an attorney. The lawyer, Kuwait-based Salem Al-Hashash, told CNN on Tuesday that he was representing Jassem Emwazi and planned to file lawsuits against anyone who has claimed that Mohammed Emwazi is Jihadi John. The lawyer called the father a “victim of libel” and said that he would soon hold a news conference. Last week, two U.S. officials and two U.S. congressional sources confirmed to CNN that “Jihadi John” is Mohammed Emwazi, a Kuwaitiborn Londoner. Jassem Emwazi’s statements to al Qabas appear to contradict reports

Study: Breathing polluted NY air can increase risk of stroke IT’S enough to take your breath away. A new study reveals that inhaling New York air raises your risk of stroke by upping your chance of a deadly artery constriction. “We need to worry about the air now?” asked Virginia Fogle, 60, a former corrections officer from Jamaica. Yes, Virginia, we do. Air pollution in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut can narrow the arteries in the head and neck, cutting off oxygen to the brain and triggering strokes, according to the research by NYU Langone Medical Center, which studied 300,000 area residents. The constriction — known as carotid artery stenosis — is linked to

more than half of strokes in the U.S. “Air pollution could be that extra little push that could lead to a cardiovascular event in someone with a lot of health problems,” said study author Dr. Jonathan Newman. The feds say that humans can safely tolerate 12 micrograms per cubic meter of air pollution. Some study participants in tristate areas live in places registering 12.9-14.7 micrograms — raising their risk of stroke dramatically. New York’s air has gotten cleaner since federal standards were tightened in the 1970s — but the city still doesn’t meet federal standards for two dangerous pollutants, fine particulate matter and ground-level ozone.

World’s oldest person celebrates 117th birthday in Japan

Last week, two U.S. officials and two U.S. congressional sources confirmed to CNN that “Jihadi John” is Mohammed Emwazi, a Kuwaiti-born Londoner.

this week that his wife recognized Jihadi John’s voice as her son’s when she saw footage that shows the man, whose face is covered, brandishing a knife and threatening ISIS hostages. Emwazi told British newspaper The Guardian that the stories about the couple recognizing the voice were false. “Lie, lie, lie,” he reportedly said. Mohammed Emwazi was born in Kuwait in 1988 and moved to the United Kingdom with his parents

and sister when he was six, according to CAGE, an advocacy group for people suspected of involvement in terrorism. CAGE interacted with Emwazi before he joined the terror group, a member has said. CAGE released a recording last week that it said it taped of Mohammed Emwazi in 2009. In that recording, Emwazi is heard talking about been questioned by British intelligence service regarding a July 2005 terror attack in London. (CNN)

THE world’s oldest person, a woman from Japan, is turning 117-years-old. Misao Okawa, who was born on 5 March 1898 in Osaka, spent time with family the day before her actual birthday, to mark the occasion. Speaking at Wednesday’s celebrations she said that 117 years didn’t seem like such a long time. She now lives in a nursing home in Osaka and staff there said she has slowed down a bit in recent months and has trouble with her hearing. Despite this she is still in good health and eats well. Born to a kimono maker, Mrs Okawa married her husband Yukio in 1919. He died in 1931. They had two daughters and a son. Mrs Okawa now has four grandchildren and six greatgrandchildren.

Misao Okawa, the world’s oldest Japanese woman, poses for a photo on her 117th birthday celebration at Kurenai Nursing Home on Wednesday in Osaka, Japan.

She was officially recognised as the world’s oldest person in 2013 by Guinness World Records. (News Beat)

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World News

Israel asks Congress for missile defense aid despite public row

Graffiti calling for more respect from “gringos” (Americans) have appeared in Caracas in response to the tensions between the US and Venezuela

Venezuela gives US two weeks to cut 80 diplomats THE Venezuelan government says the United States has two weeks to dramatically reduce the number of diplomats it has in the country. Foreign Minister Delcy Rodriguez said the US could decide which of its 100 diplomats should be sent home. She said the goal was to bring the balance down to 17 - the number of Venezuelan diplomats in the US. On Saturday, President Nicolas Maduro said the US had been meddling in Venezuela’s affairs. He said US citizens visiting the country would now be required to apply for visas charged at the same rates levied on Venezuelans wishing to visit the US. Mr Maduro said Venezuela would

also issue a list of banned politicians who it considered to have promoted human rights abuses. Earlier this month the US imposed visa restrictions on unnamed Venezuelan officials it accused of human rights violations and corruption. The move builds on sanctions imposed last year on Venezuelan officials alleged to have violated the rights of protesters during demonstrations that shook the country in the first six months of 2014. President Maduro has frequently accused the US of working with opposition groups against his government.

U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Mark Lippert is seen with a bloody face after a Thursday morning attack in central Seoul.

U.S. ambassador to South Korea injured in razor attack

U.S. AMBASSADOR Mark Lippert was left covered in blood after being slashed with a razor by a man in South Korea Thursday morning. Lippert was photographed with blood on his face, hands and his shirt before taken to a hospital for treatment. The extent of his injuries, one possibly to his wrist, weren’t immediately clear. YTN TV reported that a man screamed that the rival Koreas should be unified before carrying

out his violent attack on the ambassador. “South and North Korea should be reunified!” he allegedly shouted. Video apparently taken at the scene showed a man with a short beard being tackled to the ground before dragged away by local authorities. Police confirmed that a man has been taken into custody. YTN said he’s only identified by his surname of Kim.

PUBLICLY the U.S. and Israel have been clashing over Iran’s nuclear programme, but quietly Israelis have been making another appeal: getting more U.S. funds for missile defense systems to defend against Iran’s growing ballistic missile program. A Republican congressional source told CNN that the Israelis are asking lawmakers to approve more than $300 million in additional U.S. funding for missile defense systems, above the $155 million the Pentagon is already requesting from Congress. For the first time, the source said, Israel is asking the U.S. for procurement funding for the Arrow 3 missile, designed to counter longerrange Iranian ballistic missiles, and the David’s Sling missile defense system, for shorter-range Iranian weapons. There have been some spending request ‘disconnects’ in the U.S.Israeli missile programme because of the lack of communication between the two sides as a result of the controversy over the U.S. negotiations with Iran, some congressional sources have suggested.

Those talks center only on the nuclear weapons themselves. Iran’s ballistic missile programme would provide the delivery system for a nuclear weapon. It’s not clear how the Pentagon will react to the Israeli proposal. But privately some are already noting that with the current U.S. defense budget crunch, it’s likely something would have to be cut in the Pentagon budget to pay for the Israeli request. That seems unlikely to happen. The funding request also comes as tensions between the Obama administration and Israeli government have boiled over. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday gave a speech to Congress, held against White House wishes, objecting to the Iran deal. That could complicate efforts by Israel to boost funding for the missile defense projects, which helps push aid to Israel to well over $3 billion per year. Or it might provide a way of patching up ties between the two countries if the deal Netanyahu opposes goes through. National Security Adviser Susan

Rice, in an address Monday to the major pro-Israel lobby AIPAC, emphasised continuing American support for missile-defense programmes and other efforts to protect Israel’s security. “Last year, we provided Israel with the largest package of security assistance ever. And that’s money very well spent,” she said. “Because it goes directly to bolstering Israel’s ability to defend itself, by itself, in a very tough neighbourhood.” She added, “We’re maintaining Israel’s qualitative military edge with new defense technologies and access to the most advanced military equipment in the world.” The Department of Defense declined to speak about the funding request, and Israeli officials didn’t response to requests for comment. U.S. intelligence officials have been warning for months that Iran continues to expand its long-range ballistic missile efforts, with the goal of being able to attack Israel and possibly achieving intercontinental targeting to attack Europe and the East Coast of the United States in the coming years. (CNN)

Boston Marathon bombing attorney: “It was him” DZHOKHAR Tsarnaev’s attorney made one thing clear during her opening statement in the Boston Marathon bombing trial: He did it. “It was him,” defense attorney Judy Clarke told jurors. Tsarnaev carried one of the pressure cooker bombs on April 15, 2013, and placed it near the finish line, she said. He was there when a police officer was killed. He was involved in a shootout with police. The accused bomber will not sidestep any of his actions, Clarke said. So, why even a trial at all? Because there’s disagreement over why Tsarnaev did it, Clarke said. Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was influenced by his brother, Tamerlan Tsarnaev, Clarke said. He was enlisted by his brother to commit these horrific acts, she said. The first day of the trial provided jurors with a peek at the strategies of the prosecution and defense. Based on their opening statements, both sides agree on the basic facts around the attacks -- who carried them out and how. But both sides presented divergent views of why Dzhokhar Tsarnaev carried out the attacks. The goal of the Tsarnaev brothers was to kill as many people as possible, U.S. prosecutor Bill Weinreb said during his initial statement to jurors. The prosecutor described in detail

More than 260 others were maimed or injured by two pressure cooker bombs that exploded within 12 seconds of each other that Dzhokhar Tsarnaev reportedly planted.

the deaths of three victims near the finish line of the 2013 Boston Marathon and painted a picture of Dzhokhar Tsarnaev as a holy warrior committed to violence. More than 260 others were maimed or injured by two pressure cooker bombs that exploded within 12 seconds of each other. A fourth person, an MIT police officer, was ambushed and killed in his patrol car three days after the bombings as Tsarnaev and his brother, Tamerlan, allegedly ran from police. Tamerlan Tsarnaev, 26, was killed after a gunbattle with police.

So it is Dzhokhar Tsarnaev who is on trial, charged with 30 counts related to the bombings. Weinreb said Tsarnaev’s actions after the bombings -- going to Whole Foods to buy a gallon of milk, hanging out with friends -- show that he didn’t care about what he did. To the contrary, the prosecutor told jurors, he believed he had done good. The motive for the attacks can be found in the boat that ultimately became Tsarnaev’s hideout before his arrest, he said. There, Tsarnaev allegedly wrote messages explaining that he believed the U.S. government is an enemy of Islam.

30

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

March 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

March 7 - 13, 2015

CLASSIFIEDS 31

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Is looking to fill the following positions:

Full-Time / Part-Time Cleaner Painter Contact: 649-3330101 or 333-0129

CERTIFIED JAGUAR /LAND ROVER TECHNICIAN • Must be a certified level 2, 3 or 4 Jaguar & Land Rover Auto Technician with minimum 5 years of experience, with expertise to work on our other Brands • Must be able to perform vehicle diagnostics and updates using SDD, IDS, Chrysler wiTECH, Starscan, DRB III, Tech 2, NGS, and Fiat Examiner Diagnostic equipment • Maintains vehicle functional condition by listening to customers / operator complaints; conduct inspections; repair engine failures; repair mechanical and electrical systems malfunctions; and replace parts and

KENEISHA’S BAKERY

components according to manufacturer standards • Keeps shop equipment operating by following operating instructions; troubleshooting breakdowns; maintaining supplies; performing preventive maintenance; calling for repairs. • Must hold a valid driver license with a clean, insurable, driving record; must be able to drive manual and automatic transmissions • Remuneration commensurate with experience.

Contact Mac Motors Ltd on 649-339-3841

11240

LIFEGUARD

LEW & JAN CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

Qualified current and experienced lifeguard needed for Watersports Company in Grand Turk/Salt Cay

Looking for One (1):

Is looking to fill the following positions

Domestic Worker

Baker

11166

ATRIUM MANAGEMENT LTD.

LUXE GROUP OF COMPANIES Is looking to fill the following positions:

To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour Contact: 232-5538 MIRACLE BEAUTY SALON

BABY SITTER To work five (5) days per week from 8 A.M - 5 P.M Salary: $5.50 per hour.

Contact: 649-431-9083 MY DEE’S RESTAURANT NORTH CAICOS Is looking for a

Requirements:

contact: 232-7317

11178

days per week salary $10.00 per hour.

NATASHA CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our client Martin Gray is looking for a

25 years or older Minimum 8 years waterfront and pool lifeguard experience must be rescue diver qualified Valid driver license must have own car Work outdoors in the sun on boats and on Holidays other watersports certifications and experienced preferred

Please email: crystalseasadventures@gmail.com to apply. 11203

NEPTUNE VILLAS Is looking for a

per week salary $6.00 per hour.

$7.00 per hour

contact: 946-5306

11148

Contact: 345-6804

RAFAEL CASTILLO Is looking for a

11172

ANOLE DARON

Mason

PAVILLION RESTAURANT is looking for a

worker To work 6 days

Contact: 244-3306

– $6.00 per hour

Job Duties: • planning and scheduling of excursions • Supervision on boat • experience with quickbooks • Creating and leading community aquatic outreach programs for local schools and youth groups • Base salary $275/ week based on qualifications and experience.

Labourer domestic to work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour

4 Domestic Helpers

SAMUEL WILSON Is looking for a

1 Hairdresser – $7.00 per hour

4 Labourers – $6.00 per hour

Contact: 2479433 or 345-3825 11196

IS LOOKING FOR

DOMESTIC WORKER TO WORK 5 DAYS PER WEEK. SALARY $5.00 PER HOUR

CONTACT: 242 3983

1119

Kitchen Helper

To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 245-1239

Server to work 6 days

per week. Salary $6.00 per hour

contact: 339-5900

GEORGE FRANKLYN MISSICK Is seeking to employ a

Island Getaways Is currently looking for a

Qualifications and experience: • At least 4 years of experience in Property Management and/or hotel management. • Advanced computer skills. In particular: Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher and PowerPoint. • Knowledgeable in Accounting with an advanced level in QuickBooks Accounting software. • Proactive and knowledgeable in creative sales maximization. • Possess own car and have a valid driver’s license. • Possess own computer. Some of the responsibilities include: • To coordinate and execute all operational and related matters of Property Management including building, maintenance and tenancy management among others. • Liaise with contractors, consultants and authorities in relevant matters. • Monitoring servicing, rectification and installation works carried by contractors or in-house maintenance. • Providing professional assistance to tenants and consulting services to property owners. • Answering all emails and inquiries. Creating and updating reservation calendars, operational schedules, and other related duties.

This position requires to be on call 24/7, work evenings, public holidays and all weekends. Salary: commission based only. Email resume to: islandproperty@tciway.tc

contact: 343-9537

11194

To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 342-2511

11182

To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

labourer To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

contact: 346-5582

11186

BABYSITTER Merchandiser

11187

Property Concierge 11179

Painter To work 6

• • • • • • •

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Cosmetologist To work 6 days per week salary $6.50 per hour.

11228

contact: 344-4474

2 Chefs

Bar Supervisor

Must be willing to work 6 days per week

Contact: 232-5074

BLUE WHALE TOURS AND EXCURSIONS seeks a Full-Time

SALES/ MARKETING MANAGER $7.00 per hour QUALIFICATION/ RESPONSIBILITIES: • College degree in management • 10 + years experience in operations of small business • Extensive knowledge of QuickBooks Accounting System • Fluent English • Ability to work long/ flexible hours • Superb customer service skills • Knowledge of marketing • Familiar with tourism • Qualified candidates need only apply

Forward resume to: info@bluewhaleexcursions.com

C & J EMPLOYMENT Acting on behalf of: H.B.B. Salon, Spotless Car Wash, Breeze Construction, Danny Buoy’s, C&P Welding, George Solon Fisherman, Terrell Gardiner

LaboUrers/ domestic Workers – $5.00 per hour

Diver

– $5-$7 per hour

Cosmetologist – $6 per hour

Cashier

– $5.00 per hour

Painter

– $7.00 per hour

Mason/ Welder – $8-$10 per hour

Waitress – $5-$6 per hour

Contact: philojemployment@hotmail.com

11199

GREAT DEALS IF YOU ARE BUILDING INTERIOR DOORS $29 BUY ONE GET ONE FREE TILES $24 CASE BUY ONE GET ONE FREE THAT’S 3452 FT BATH TUBS $119 BUY ONE GET ONE FREE Contact: 649-232-4000 or 649-232-4869 or email: kishco2005@hotmail.com 11224

GRACE BAY SUITES

VACANCY

FRIEDISE REGISTRE

PART-TIME OFFICE ASSISTANT Heritage Insurance Company is seeking a Part-time Office Assistant to work three days per week from 9am-5pm • Must be courteous • Must have computer skills • Office skills required

Is looking for a

HOTEL SERVICE PROVIDERS $7.00 PER HOUR PLEASE DELIVER RESUME TO FRONT DESK

NO PHONE CALLS ACCEPTED BELONGERS ONLY NEED APPLY

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

domestic worker To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

Submit cover letter and resume to Ms. Carla Blake, Heritage Insurance, The Market Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Deadline for applications is March 20th, 2015

contact: 331-3323

11232

is looking for a

GRAND TURK RESORT LTD. Is looking to fill the following positions:

11091

BEAUTY PALACE

March 7 - 13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

11237

32 CLASSIFIEDS

A Grocery Store

Island Farms

is in need of a

CASHIER housekeeper

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

seeks a live-in

Position Available

Spa Therapist Must have a thorough knowledge of numerous massage modalities, posses a general understand-ing of body treatments and be willing to train in our spa’s specific massage and body treatment of-ferings. Must possess excellent communication skills and be able to learn the product and service knowledge necessary to effectively provide wellness solutions to meet the needs of our guests. Knowledgeable in the performance of CPR.

Must be willing to cook and clean for up to 3 men. 40 hour week, $5.00/hour before deductions for NHIP and NIB.

BELONGER PREFERRED. Apply to Agricola@tciway.tc with references

11236

• Handling of cash transaction and counting. Maintaining monthly and weekly reports. • Receiving payment by cash, cheques, credit cards or charging to accounts. • Able to speak fluent English, Creole and Spanish. • Knowledgable in Quickbooks POS and Inventek POS systems. • Customer service representative to guide and solve customers’ queries.

Please email resume to unitedbasist_90@hotmail.com

GRACEWAY SPORTS CENTRE Is looking to employ a

FITNESS TRAINER

Able to fulfill the following requirements: • Instruct group fitness classes (Pilates, Body Combat, Zumba) • Do personal training sessions • Teach dance and assist with gymnastics instruction • He/she must be certified in Pilates, Zumba, dance and preferable Less Mills Concept • Must be a licensed Personal Trainer and have at least five years of experience in these areas • First Aid Certification is mandatory • The work schedule and remuneration will commensurate with certification and experience

Send resumes to kaystubbspsa@yahoo.com

Please forward your application to info@gracewaysports.com

11234

11238

Position requirements: • Must have enthusiasm and possess excellent customer service skills. • Enjoy working with people and possess a friendly and outgoing personality. • Excellent communication and listening skills, as well as basic computer knowledge. • Must be a team player. • Must hold and maintain a current license. Salary commensurate with qualifications

CLASSIFIEDS 33

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Labourer Needed Bonded Warehouse facility requires a labourer. Duties include general cleaning, maintenance and movement of cargo. Salary: Starting at $7.00 per hour for 40 hour workweek.

Please contact Cargo Express Services, in person, at 70 South Dock Road or fax application to 941-5525 Application deadline: March 13, 2015

EBEN-EZEN WATER Is looking for a

LABOURER

NEEDED To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour

contact: 231-1391

Driver To work 5 days

per week salary.

Call: 341-6493

11147

Gus Francis

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

Is looking for a

per week salary $7.00 per hour.

contact: 341-5988

11214

Domestic Worker To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 243-1257

Labourer

To work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 243-6890

11175

ENVIRONMENTAL RESTORATION AND SERVICING ENTERPRISE

MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR

EXPRESS EQUIPMENT LTD. LOOKING FOR 1

MECHANIC & 1 AST. MNG HYDRAULIC DEPARTMENT

labourer To work 5 days

Is looking for

is looking for a

the largest readership in the turks & caicos Is looking for a

Is looking for a

GEORGE CHRISTOPHER FORBES

11217

11229

FRANK’S CAFÉ

EMILY FORBES

11193

March 7 - 13, 2015

• Must have a valid driver license from A-H • NEED TO KNOW HYDRAULIC SYSTEM & ASSEMBLY & IDENTIFY HOSE & FITTINGS • Must be able to work holiday and weekends • Ability to speak French & Spanish a plus

Applicants must call 649 946-5919 Monday to Saturday 7.45 to 5pm Pay set @ $12.00 & 15.00 per hour

11231

NOTICE Regulation 7 of the Physical Planning (Development Permission) Regulations, 1990 An application registered GT: 4582 for creation of a MARINA BASIN, DOCKS, TWO (2) RESIDENTIAL ISLANDS, FUEL STORAGE AND UTILITIES INFRASTRUCTURE have been submitted to the Department of Planning for consideration of Outline Development Permission by BLACK CHATER HOLDINGS LTD. The location is PARCEL 10505/25, which is on the southeast side of Grand Turk. Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Downtown, Town Center Mall, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of publication of this Notice.

11218

Labourer To work 6 days a week. $6 per hour must be willing to work holidays and weekend. Submit resume to poohbear_2314@hotmal. com. Deadline is March 1st, 2015

Experience, qualification and skills: • Certified pool technician • At least three years experience in general maintenance at a supervisory level • Skilled in pool and service equipment maintenance and minor repairs • Knowledge of water treatment

plants would be an asset • Required to participate in manual labor • Ability to meet deadlines and pay attention to details is required • Willing to work long shifts including evenings, weekends and holidays • Salary commensurate with experience

If you possess the necessary qualifications and experience please apply in writing to: erase2015@hotmail.com or call 431-2460. Belonger only need apply

11145

CAICOS EXPRESS AIRWAYS Requires an

AIRCRAFT MECHANIC The eligible candidate MUST have the following credentials in order to be considered:

• CAA AMEL with group rating in Cat A and Cat C License with TSI0520 rating • FAA A&P License with experience in general aviation airplanes with C402 type • Salary scale at approximately $30K annually • Should be an independent worker without supervision • Should be between the ages 30-50 years of age Any interested persons should contact Richardson Arthur at 232-1982 and resumes can be faxed to 941-3864 or emailed to info@caicosexpressairways.com

Deadline for remitting a letter of application and resumes is 9th April 2015 QUALIFIED BELONGERS NEED ONLY APPLY

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

11195

March 7 - 13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PROPERTIES FOR SALE OFFERS IN WRITING ARE INVITED FOR PURCHASE OF THE FOLLOWING PROPERTIES BEING SOLD BY PRIVATE TREATY UNDER POWERS OF SALE CONTAINED IN A MORTAGE

3. Parcel 60002/150 North West & North Central. Phase 2 Priton Homes. 3-bedrooms, 2-bathrooms living/dining room area and kitchen. Listing Price $140K 4. Parcel 60002/217 North West & North Central. Phase 2 Priton Homes. 2-bedrooms, 1-bathroom living/dining room area and kitchen. Listing Price $120K

7. Parcel 60003/8 North West & North Central. Phase 1 Priton Homes. 3-bedrooms, 2-bathroom living/dining room area and kitchen. Listing Price $140K

Chalk Sound Providenciales

To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 241-8385

“ALLIED MECHANICALS LIMITED” Seeks Experienced

MILLWRIGHT/ MACHINIST

4. Parcel 10408/16 South Backsalina, Grand Turk. The main building includes 4-bed rooms 3 bathrooms that are currently four rental units. The other building is an uninhabited unfinished building. Price $240K

6. Parcel 10409/198, Off Old Airport Road. two story duplex dwelling. 4- Apartments: Upper 1 apartment with 3-bedrooms, Lower 3 apartments with 1-bedroom. Price $400K

11. Parcel 60003/45 North West & North Central. Phase 1 Priton Homes. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathroom living/dining room area and kitchen. Listing Price $140K

11201

3. Parcel 10303/49 Central. Single story dwelling 3bedrooms, 1- Living/dining room, 1- bathroom and kitchen. Price $150K

6. Parcel 60003/127 North West & North Central. Phase 1 Priton Homes. 3-bedrooms, 2-bathroom living/dining room area and kitchen. Listing Price $150K

10. Parcel 60003/ 120 North West & North Central. Phase 1 Priton Homes. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathroom living/dining room area and kitchen. Listing Price $120K

contact: 941-5497

2. Parcel 10409/56 East Suburbs. Single storey dwelling. 3- Apartments each with 1-bedroom, 1living/dining room, 1-bathroom and kitchen. Price $185K

5. Parcel 10204/164 North Creek. Single two story duplex. 2- Apartments each with 2-bedroom, 1- living/dining room, 2-bathroom and kitchen. Price $350K

9. Parcel 60003/58 North West & North Central. Phase 1 Priton Homes. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathroom living/dining room area and kitchen. Listing Price $150K

per week salary $5.00 per hour.

1. Parcel 10409/51 East Suburbs. 2-storey residence. Ground Level 1- bedroom and 1-bathroom. 2-storey section 1-living room, 1-kitchen, 1-bathroom, 3-bedrooms and a laundry room, patio and garage. Price: $300K

11176

Grand Turk

5. Parcel 60003/253 North West & North Central, This property forms part of Phase 1 Priton Homes which consists of 3-bedrooms, 2-bathroom, laundry room,

8. Parcel 60002/355 North West & North Central. Phase 2 Priton Homes. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathroom living/dining room area and kitchen. Listing Price $140K

Housekeeper labourer to work 6 days

12 years experience working unsupervised. Clean drivers licence. $800/week.

Please email qualifications to: dt@swannlaw.tc 11137

LUCNERT PIERRE Is looking for a

1. Parcel 60400/172 Chalk Sound. 2-Storey residential home of 11 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, 2 kitchens2 living rooms a dining room, office, study, pool and decks. Price $510K

TROPICAL BAR

Caretaker bartender To work 6 days Is looking for a

per week salary $6.00 per hour.

2. Parcel 60400/311 Chalksound. 2-storey residence 3-bedrooms, 2- bathrooms, 1- kitchen and dining area, Pool, Porch and Deck. Price $445,500K

contact: 347-9214

North Caicos

LATINO CONSTRUCTION

1. Parcel 51203/29 Bottle Creek Central. Single-story residential 4-bedrooms, 1-bathroom, 1-living room, 1-dining area and a kitchen. Price $54K

is looking for a

to work 6 days per week must be reliable, hardworking and honest salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 241-0426

11185

2. Parcel 60003/121 North West & North Central. Phase 1 Priton Homes with 2-bedrooms, 1-bathroom, laundry room, living/ dining room area and kitchen. Price $130K

is looking for a

11222

1. Parcel 60503/83 Blue Hills & Stamers Run. The lower level 3- apartments 1-bedroom, one bathroom, 1 living room and kitchen/dinning. The upper level 3-bedrooms, 2-bathrooms, 1-living room, 1-dining room and kitchen. Price $230K

SUSAN WILSON

is looking for a

TRANSFORMATIVE H.R. SOLUTIONS Is looking for the following:

2. Parcel 50402/93 Kewtownship, North Caicos. single family home comprises of 7 bedroom, 3 bathrooms, a kitchen / dining and living room. Price $250K

South Caicos

carpenter to work 6 days

1. Parcel 20306/34 Cockburn Harbour. A Bermudian Style Building 4-bedrooms, 2-bathroom, 1-living room, 1-dining area and a kitchen. Price $54K

INTERESTED PERSONS MAY CALL 232-3488 OR 339-7088 BETWEEN 9:00 AM AND 4:40 P.M. MONDAY TO FRIDAY

11151

Blue Hills, Providenciales

SEAGATE MANAGEMENT LTD

per week salary $8.00 per hour.

Secretary

contact: 332-0771

Send resume to: tcihrs@gmail.com 11206

11204

34 CLASSIFIEDS

Salary $7.00 per hour

March 7 - 13, 2015

CLASSIFIEDS 35

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS Ports of Call Resorts

DOMESTIC WORKER WANTED

Job Vacancy

An experienced domestic worker is required for full-time employment

Belongers only need apply Apply to P.O. Box 260 Providenciales Or by email to: tos@tciway.tc

GARDENER

• Working hours: 8 hrs per day • Wages: $5.50 per hour • Must be able to clean yard, wash vehicles • Small maintenance around the property, operate small machine (lawnmower, cutter, blower) • Work on weekends if necessary

11211

Contact: Neon Holdings Ltd. Tel: 649-941-7923 During working hours

11163

Candidates must have own transportation and be willing to work late/flexible hours. A demonstrated ability to work unsupervised with excellent communications skills are essential for the position. Up to date references are also essential.

NOTICE

FRANKLYN HUDSON RIGBY WOULD LIKE TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT I AM NO LONGER MARRIED TO OR RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY BILLS OR DEBTS OF SAMANTHA NATASHA DASH AS OF FEBRUARY 27th, 2015 Thank you

11221

Housemaids Houseman Ground keepers Maintenance Person must be able to work holidays and weekends and be willing to work as a part of a team.

Resume can be email to info@portsofcallresort.com

11225

MERLINE GROCERY STORE Is looking for a

ZAVARDO OUTTEN is looking for a

M & S DELI NORTH CAICOS Is looking for a

domestic Domestic Kitchen worker Worker Helper

To work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 341-5919 11216

to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 245-4360 11196

To work 6 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact: 244-7730

PROFESSIONAL ISLAND LOOKS

Ricardo Fulford Consultant Services

Is looking for a

1) Salon Helper

Sales Person To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 244-7519

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! the largest readership in the turks & caicos

on behalf of his clients:

J.B.S Salon is seeking employment for the following:

Interested candidate may contact 341-9177 for further details regarding employment. Jimbolya Trucking is seeking employment for the following:

2) Two Truck Drivers Interested candidate may contact 247-0017 for further details regarding employment. Ricardo Fulford Immigration

11212

DOUBLE YOUR MONEY IN 5 YEARS GREAT OPPORTUNITY – INVEST IN LAND 25 ACRES IN MIDDLE CAICOS – $200,000.00

Ocean Club Resorts is looking for qualified applicants for the position of:

Gardener

Job involves strenuous physical labour, which requires being able and willing to perform heavy lifting, and other physically demanding functions. Must be able to speak English fluently. Preference will be given to someone with previous resort experience. 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.com Only those receiving an interview will be contacted.

11207

50.40 ACRES IN NORTH CAICOS BY FLAMINGO POND – $990,000.00

16.70 ACRES WATER-FRONT LAND IN NORTH CAICOS – $390,000.00

31 ACRES IN PROVO – CLOSE TO THE AIRPORT – BLUE HILLS AND STAMMERS HILL – $599,000.00

OUR LOSS IS YOUR GAIN CONTACT THE NUMBERS BELOW TO GET MORE DETAILS TELEPHONE: 786-352-2726/649-232-4000/649-232-4869 OR EMAIL: KISHCO2005@HOTMAIL.COM

11223

36 CLASSIFIEDS

BAREFOOT CAFÉ Is looking for a

BAY BISTRO RESTAURANT

BEAUTY AND BEYOND SPA

CRAMBELIN YOUTH Is looking for a

contact: 341-6814

per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 946-5396

BIG BLUE UNLIMITED FEBRUARY 2015

ACTIVITY SALES COORDINATOR AND FRONT RECEPTION Looking for energetic and outgoing activity sales people to work in a fun and thriving Eco Tourism Adventure Company. Positions available at CLUB MED and LEEWARD sales offices. The applicant must have a minimum of 3-years of experience with sales & reservations in the tourism industry and have superior PR, computer, finance, phone etiquette and organizational skills. Club Med applicants must speak fluent French and preference will be given to anyone with additional languages. All applicants must be presentable, articulate, and be able to work long and flexible hours under pressure. Weekends and evenings are mandatory. Wages/Salary relevant with experience. Please drop resume and cover letter to Big Blue at the Leeward Marina between the hours of 8am to 5pm or e-mail to info@ bigblueunlimited.com. You will be contacted for an interview if required and the deadline for applications is March 4th 2015. Positions start March 2015.

DIVE INSTRUCTORS

looking for SCUBA Diving instructors with experience in the Turks and Caicos Islands dive industry to conduct dive courses, lead dives and snorkel trips, and assist on other ecoadventure activities at Big Blue. Applicants must be a current PADI dive instructors and have the skills and personality for sales, reservations, & public relations. Starting salary of approximately $1800 per month. Please drop resume and cover letter to Big Blue at the Leeward Marina between the hours of 8am to 5pm or e-mail to info@bigblueunlimited.com. You will be contacted for an interview if required and the deadline for applications is 31st March 2015. Positions start in May/June 2015.

KITEBOARDING INSTRUCTORS

PASA or IKO Kite boarding Instructor(s) required to provide kite instruction, lead kite board excursions, and conduct all required kite equipment maintenance. Base salary of approximately $1800 per month, 6-days per week for a minimum of 6hrs per day. Only experienced and qualified instructors need apply. Send resumes to info@bigblueunlimited. com The deadline for applications is 31st March 2015. Positions start in May/June 2015

MARINE BIOLOGISTS / ECO-TOUR GUIDES

Looking for persons with experience and qualifications in the field of Marine Biology to join Big Blue’s team of eco-tour guides and dive instructors. Applicants must have experience in tropical waters and be able to lead educational kayak, paddleboard, snorkel and sightseeing eco-adventures. Applicants must have a first aid and CPR certificate and have the personality for sales, public relations and education. Applicants with boat driving experience, and STCW’95/TCI boat captain’s license preferred and will enjoy a better salary. Starting salary of approximately $1800 per month. Please drop resume and cover letter to Big Blue at the Leeward Marina between the hours of 8am to 5pm or e-mail to info@bigblueunlimited.com You will be contacted for an interview if required and the deadline for applications is 31st March 2015. Positions start in May/June 2015.

With at least 5 years experience salary commission based.

contact: 941-8928

11180

Labourer Labourers To work 6 days per week salary To work 5 ½ days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 344-8753

$6.00 per hour.

contact: 245-8010

11202

11183

per week salary $8.00 per hour.

Kitchen Helper cosmetologist To work 6 days 11189

apriebeautysalon@outlook. com or fax: 649-941-3988

Dishwasher To work 6 days 11165

to work 6 days per week Monday – Saturday salary starting at $6 per hour interested persons can email their resumes to:

is looking for 2

Is looking for a

is looking for a

COSMETOLOGIST

CAICOS AUTO WORLD

DIVA’S BEAUTY SALON

CAICOS CAFÉ

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Domestic Worker to work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour

contact: 946-5278 11181

Cosmetologist

To work 6 days per week salary $250.00 per week.

contact: 431-0750

11188

Is seeking a highly skilled and motivated

11197

APRIE BEAUTY SALON

March 7 - 13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

BLUE LOOS LTD Seeks a

Supervisor Duties include supervising the scheduling and invoicing for septic and toilet cleaning services and coordinating maintenance of equipment (trucks, pumps, pipes). Must have at least 5 years experience in a supervisory role, be able to drive stick shift Class 6 vehicle and be prepared to get hands dirty when supervising jobs in and around septic tanks. Salary commensurate with experience. Apply with 2 references to Blueloosltd@gmail.com

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

11161

March 7 - 13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS Hernandez Employment Services Agency

SHORE EXCURSION OPERATOR In Grand Turk seeks qualified

CRUISE PORT OPERATIONS

SUPERVISOR • Must have at least four years experience in shore dispatch, cruise ship/ shorex staff communications, shorex allocations, transportation and guide and driver management • must be proficient in Microsoft Excel, WORD and possess excellent written and verbal communication skills. A college degree (4 years) is required. • Fluent in both English and Spanish is a plus

Is looking for a

Interested candidate can contact: 346-1787 for further details regarding employment

11213

domestic worker

To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 347-7129 11226

Dishwasher/Kitchen Cleaner Wanted Top o' the Cove Deli is seeking a Dishwasher/Kitchen Cleaner for nightshift duties to include general kitchen maintenance/mopping floors/ washing dishes. • Must be able to work with little or no supervision. • Must be able to work long hours, weekends and holidays. • Must possess a valid drivers licence. • Applicants must have current CV & verifiable references.

C & J CONSULTANT Acting on behalf of our clients is looking to fill the following positions: CARRINGTON WILLIAMS

Domestic Worker – $6.00 per hour BREEZE CONSTRUCTION

Labourer – $7.00 per hour EDITH GRAY

Domestic Worker – $6.00 per hour CHARLES BARBER SHOP

11164

YVON PETIT is looking for a

Steel Man Applicant must be honest, reliable and hardworking salary $7.00 per hour.

contact: 346-6622

TROPICAL BAR

Waiter To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour.

contact: 241-0426 11239

ALL AROUND OFFICE ASSISTANT/ DRIVER • Must be familiar with computer • Must be familiar with photography

11205

PLEASE NO PHONE CALLS

Suncatcher TCI Ltd is a provider of complete solar generation solutions for the Turks and Caicos Islands. Our culture is one where teamwork, continuous improvement, achievement of results, and environmental responsibility are core values. We are seeking new associates who are motivated to contribute their talents to making costeffective solar energy an important part of the world’s energy mix.

We are currently looking to fill the following position:

SOLAR ELECTRICIAN

Solar Electrican is part of the project team. This includes: project planning, including defining schedule and budgets which meet contract requirements; support of the design process through plan-check and permitting; aiding the Project Manager in defining elements of work and soliciting bids for subcontracted work where necessary; providing direction and supervision of all field activities related to the physical construction; supporting Project Manager in managing the project budget, cash flow, and schedule through the project cycle; oversight of the data management for all project data flows including submittals, RFI’s etc.; oversight for all quality and safety requirements on the project; materials and equipment planning and requisition; and planning/management for all general conditions requirements to successfully install the project on-time and within budget, while maintaining required levels for quality and safety. The SOLAR ELECTRICIAN is also responsible to ensure adequate progress of work, coordination of trades and overall project completion to meet contractual commitments.

Responsibilities

* Supervise the project cycle for commercial PV projects * Support the design process and permit submittal * Oversee all field teams and installation progress * Assist the Project Manager in defining elements of work and development of subcontracts * Support the bid process for subcontracted work * Assist Project Manager in the development and management project budgets * Assist Project Manager to develop and manage the project schedule using MS Project * Manage daily logs and timesheets for project * Coordinate the work of subcontractors on site * Acquire subcontract labor, materials or equipment to ensure timely completion of the project * Conduct site audits for new projects * Additional duties required as needed

Qualifications

Salary commensurate with experience. Email resume and cover letter to: tcnews@tciway.tc

2 Barbers – $6.00 per hour

Contact: 347-6642

hernandezemploymentservices.8@ gmail.com dead line. February 28, 2015

is looking for a

11232

Contact: 946-4694

1 UPHOLSTERER 1 Maid Janitor 1 Nail Specialist 1 Barber 1 Cooker

11230

11220

WILBUR CALEY

Is seeking employment for a

labourer

is looking of behalf of our clients. QUALITY UPHOLSTERY, A & M Cleaning, New Style Barbershop, Designing Image Beauty Salon, The Angela Restaurant.

to work 6 days a week @ 5.00 USD per Hrs. Belonger only may apply by sending a resume to:

Contact: 332-5940 or email: jmccall@caribbeantourstci.com

SUPERNATURAL CATCH AND TOURS

CLASSIFIEDS 37

• Solar Electrician certification or degree in electronics • Certified in the installation of the Smart Flower technology • A minimum of five years of experience in construction of commercial projects, three years of that in PV systems preferred (both grid connected and stand- alone) • Master Electrician degree preferred • In-depth knowledge of construction products, practices, subcontracting and project work flow/sequencing of solar PV modules • Certified Project Manager preferred as well as associations with such organizations as SOA and TIC as well as TUV for product quality assurance. • Experience in similar capacity on a project team for commercial projects directing crews or tradesmen in general construction, assembly and/or electrical work • Detailed knowledge of construction budgets and schedules • Knowledge of major PV components (PV modules, inverters and racking systems, etc) • Ability to lead craftsmen and construction crews • Excellent written and verbal communication skills required • Excellent customer service skills requires

Benefits for Full-Time Positions:

• Competitive compensation of $35,000 USD per year • Paid training with the nation’s leader in solar power • Employee referral program • Career path opportunities for top performers Belongers need only apply

Please send resume to: info@suncatchertci.com Attention: Teresa Brunner

11219

38 CLASSIFIEDS

Sports Interational

ALCHEMY LIMITED is seeking an

Requirements: • 12 years fine dining restaurant and in house catering experience • Culinary Arts Degree • Face to Face client interaction • Must be versed in multi-cultural fine dining cuisine • Thorough knowledge of food safety health requirements a must • Thorough knowledge of food costing and purchasing

• Menu development skills • Thorough understanding of food allergies and dietary restrictions • All applicants must be hardworking, self motivated employees must be able to work standing up for 10 hours at a time • Must also be willing to work varied shifts, nights, weekends and holidays as required by bookings • Salary dependant upon experienced.

All interested applicants should email resume or CV to: plateoftranquility@gmail.com Only qualified applicants will be considered for this position.

POSITIONS Report: England footballer Adam AVAILABLE Johnson in under-age sex probe 3 Domestic Workers 3 Gardeners 3 Dive Instructors 1 Cahier 1 Nail Artist 1 Maid

Adam Johnson, the England footballer suspected of having sex with a 15-year-old girl, was arrested after the teenager

Contact: 343-0572 for more information

11241

Experienced Private Contract Chef

March 7 - 13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

boasted she was in a relationship with him and her father found out, the Telegraph can reveal. The Sunderland winger

DUFRY GRAND TURK LTD. is seeking ONE (1)

SALES MANAGER

Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons for the positions of

Airport Traffic Compliance Officer The Airport Traffic Compliance Officer’s role is to see that patrons and taxi drivers comply with rules and regulations in accordance with the Road Traffic Ordinance and TCIAA standards whilst on airport property.

• High school diploma (or equivalent) is required • Two (2) year degree or above is strongly preferred • A minimum of 5 years Retail experience • Three years experience in Duty free/ tax free cruise ship passenger arena • Five years experience in Fine Jewelry Retail • One year experience in customs and logistics

Send resume by fax to: 649-946-1331

was detained on Monday morning at his £1.85 million home after Durham Police received a complaint from the schoolgirl’s father. It is understood the girl, who cannot be named for legal reasons, had boasted of her alleged liaison with the 27-year-old footballer to friends and on social media. It has also emerged that Johnson has posed for pictures with the girl. When her father was made aware of the rumours he went to the police and Johnson was arrested and questioned for several hours. The player, who has had 12 caps for England, has since been suspended by Sunderland AFC, pending the outcome of the investigation. Johnson’s partner, Stacey

11192

Duties and Responsibilities include:

Skills & Qualifications:

• Must have completed High School • Must possess strong leadership ability • Must be willing to work flexible shifts Hourly wage is $9.30 over a 44 hour work week

Airport Security Officers

The Airport Security Officers role is to ensure the safety and security of the travelling public and users of the airport terminals operated by the TCIAA in accordance with established Aviation Security Programs.

Duties and Responsibilities include: • • • •

X-ray screening and hand searching the hand baggage of passengers Screening of members of airport/airline staff and passengers. Identifying and reporting security breaches to the Supervisor. Security sweeps of the Airport facilities as directed by the Supervisors.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Minimum High School Diploma with four years of work experience; Tertiary education/certification preferred. • Have very good reading, writing and oral skills • Be able to work flexible shifts Salary payable is in the range $18,920 to $23,652 per annum with additional applicable allowances Interested persons must submit their applications before March 13, 2015 to:

The Human Resources, Training & Development Manager Turks & Caicos Islands Airports Authority, Providenciales International Airport, Turks and Caicos Islands Fax # 649-941-5996. Email: info@tciairports.com

WANTED:

Dishwasher/Labourer Full time. Belongers Only Apply in person with CV and references at Somewhere Cafe and Lounge, Coral Gardens Resort

11208

Bryant’s Air Conditioning & Refrigeration/Bryant Cox Is seeking employment for:

5 A/c Technicians Must have Knowledge of Mitsubishi A/c equipment (VRF systems, City Multi systems) & Air cool & water cool chiller systems. Capable of repairing minor & major brands of equipment.

2 Domestic Worker & 2 Labourers Applicants must have a minimum of five years experience. Must be able to understand, speak & write English. All Applicants Must have a valid driver’s license. Salary based on experience.

1 Duct Board Installer Fabricator/Sheet metal worker Must be able to work with sheet metal, Tinsmith roofing, must be able to read and interpret drawings to determine duct work requirements, Must be able to fabricate and install metal cladding using stainless and aluminum sheet.

Please fax or email resume to Fax: 946-4283 Email: bac@tciway.tc Suitable applicants will be contacted for an interview.

11177

• Monitor and assist taxi dispatch operations as conducted by taxi drivers and ensure seamless operations. • Monitor taxi parking lot for upkeep and report unauthorized vehicles parked there. • Direct passengers upon curbside arrival • Ensure that taxi vehicles and drivers are licensed and approved to operate from the Providenciales International Airport

March 7 - 13, 2015

39

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports Interational

TURQUOISE LANDSCAPING LTD. is looking to hire:-

3 GARDENERS/ LABOURERS

Flounders, is reported to have given birth to their daughter just seven weeks ago. Her mother has defended the former Middlesbrough and Manchester City star insisting they are standing by him as he is “100 per cent innocent”. She told the Daily Mirror: ““They are still very close and are absolutely still together. He is 100 per cent innocent and we will stand by him. He hasn’t been found guilty of anything. “He is a great lad and has not done anything wrong. This is a horrible situation.” A statement from Sunderland said: “Sunderland AFC has confirmed that Adam Johnson has been suspended from the club, pending the outcome of a police investigation. No further comment will be made at the present time.” The last of his 12 international appearances for the senior England team was in August 2012. Johnson started his career with Sunderland’s local rival Middlesbrough, making his debut at the age of 17, and was sold to Manchester City for a reported fee of £7 million ($10.8 million) in early 2010. He helped City to win the 2011-12 Premier League title but was bought by his hometown team Sunderland for a reported £10 million ($15.3 million) at the start of the following season. (Telegraph.co.uk)

TURXX LTD. Is looking for a

kitchen helper To work 6 days per week salary $7.50 per hour. contact: 243-1411

11235

Please call 332-4280 to arrange an interview

11227

Adam Johnson, who has had 12 caps for England, has since been suspended by Sunderland AFC, pending the outcome of the investigation.

• Starting pay $5.50 per hour • Must have previous gardening experience and be familiar with landscaping equipment such as lawn mowers, trimmers etc. • Must be willing to carry out work such as heavy lifting, digging, weeding, trimming and plant waste removal • Must be willing to work weekends and holidays • Must have a clean police record

PROVO BEVERAGES Is looking for:

Labourer • Must be willing to work 6 days per week • Must be trustworthy and reliable • Salary $5.00 per hour • Hours are from 8:00am4:00pm

Contact: 941-3637

JOB VACANCY We are looking for energetic, motivated and creative individuals to fill the following positions.

Graphic Designer ResponsibilitIES ;; Ability to produce quality designs for print, web and television production ;; Interpreting the client’s business needs and developing a concept to suit their purpose ;; Using innovation to redefine a design brief within the constraints of cost and time ;; Proofreading to produce accurate and high-quality work Required Skills ;; A degree in Graphic Design or at least 5 years experience in this field ;; Excellent IT skills ;; Exceptional creative flair and design ;; Excellent time management and organisational skills ;; Accuracy and attention to detail ;; An understanding of the latest trends and their role within a commercial environment ;; Proven competence in design and image processing software including Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Premiere, After Effects, Dreamweaver and Flash ;; Professional approach to time, costs and deadlines. Remuneration based on experience Please send written application and resume to

coralvisions.tci@gmail.com no later than March 25, 2015. Suitable candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Bar Manager The Bar Manager must possess a broad range of skills and be multifaceted. The ideal candidate will execute a variety of duties including but not limited to placing orders, receiving deliveries, accounting, maintaining inventory, and assisting with the execution of the Café’s wine program and cocktail menu. He/she must have extensive knowledge of beverage products including but not limited to spirits, beers, wine, cocktails and all mixes and be able to demonstrate this knowledge. Candidate must be a leader, self-starter, responsible, and trust-worthy. Mature, and strong-willed, with forethought he/she will use operational guidelines as preventative measures for maintaining the infrastructure of the Café. The Bar Manager will handle daily cash sales and receipts and will work to promote daily food specials created by the kitchen. Working closely with bar team members to market specialty cocktails, and implementing wine service, the Bar Manager will have knowledge/ sommelier training in oenology as it pertains to the Café, i.e., service, pairings and training of team members. He/she will be attentive to resolve guests’ complaints about food and/or service and will be charged with ensuring the employee handbook and procedural guidelines are adhered to by team members, and imposing discipline when not. They will oversee the ongoing support/training of team members to ensure all service standards are met and maintained. The candidate will possess a strong understanding of Quick Book accounting, Microsoft Office programs and have extensive knowledge of Micros POS systems and will be required to utilize these skills on a daily basis. The Bar Manager will be technically knowledgeable, maintaining a strong understanding of the latest software to be able to implement and problem solve technical challenges when they arise. He/she will demonstrate strong accounting skills through daily analysis of trade and an ongoing strict countenance of inventory. The Bar Manager will possess problem-solving abilities and be quick to respond in a fast paced-high pressure environment while always maintaining composure. They must be patient and understanding and exhibit excellent listening skills so as to assist employees with their needs. They must be proficient and demonstrate through previous leadership experiences and mentoring skills, the ability to ensure and maintain the Cafes high standards. The candidate must be able to climb stairs and lift heavy boxes that are inherent to this type of business. The candidate must be able to communicate proficiently in English both written and oral.

Responsibilities:

• Work with management to estimate beverage consumption, place orders with suppliers and schedule delivery of beverage and non-food related items. • Resolve customer complaints regarding service or food and beverage. • Direct cleaning of the café, maintain sanitation standards and keep appropriate records. • Monitor actions of team members and guests • Perform and maintain inventory for presentation and accounting analysis • Proficiently operate computer software to assist with the implementation of inventories, track staffing requirements and record keeping tasks as they are instructed by the Management Team or Ownership • Maintain stock of supplies such as table ware, paper goods and cleaning supplies as deemed applicable • Assist in the weekly and monthly maintenance and repair of equipment and other services • Ensure total receipts and balance against sales are accounted for at closing • Recruit, hire, oversee team members, implement continuous training • Schedule work hours for team members • Opening and/ or closing of the establishment ensuring all areas are ready for daily trade or securing the premises for closing • Lead by example maintaining clean, well groomed appearance and demonstrating their commitment to all rules and regulations

Other Duties: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Maintain relationships with guests and team members Update and use job related knowledge Schedule team members work hours and activities Evaluate health and safety practices against standards Organize, plan, and prioritize Make decisions and problem solve quickly and efficiently concerning team members and guests Process and analyze information when scheduling and budgeting Record information and health practices Implement creative promotional ideas working with vendors and team members Guide, direct, and train team members Coordinate the work and activities of team members Communicate with guests, sales representatives, and suppliers

Requirements:

Candidate must possess a four-year degree in Food/Beverage, Hospitality Industry, or equivalent degree associate with the Restaurant Industry, OR have a minimum of five years experience in a management position, and food handler’s certificate or equivalent.

To be considered please submit CV, references and certifications to: manager@somewherecafeandlounge.com. Belongers given preference. 11190

40

Sports Interational

March 7 - 13, 2015

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Tyson says Mayweather can’t sit back against Pacquiao FROM the moment the megafight was announced, conventional wisdom has suggested Manny Pacquiao needs to be at his whirling dervish best to stand a real chance to beat Floyd Mayweather Jr. Now, at least one educated observer suggests Mayweather will need to rev up his activity as well. Former undisputed heavyweight champion Mike Tyson told SweetScience.com that Mayweather’s usual approach of playing defense first and being selective with his punches puts him at risk of simply being overwhelmed by the hyperactive Filipino from the opening bell. Mayweather was outworked -- in terms of punches attempted -- by Marcos Maidana in their September 2014 rematch, throwing 326 to the Argentine’s 572. But he was far more accurate than his slower, less technically adept foe and landed 166 shots to Maidana’s 122. Pacquiao is much faster than Maidana and figures to present a more consistent and effective brand of aggression than Maidana did. In fact, against Chris Algieri in

Usain Bolt recently said: “I am not perfect yet. I am in better shape than last season but I need a lot more work. My coach will now decide what else I need to focus on”.

Former undisputed heavyweight champion Mike Tyson said that Mayweather’s usual approach of playing defense first and being selective with his punches puts him at risk of simply being overwhelmed by the hyperactive Filipino from the opening bell.

November, Pacquiao threw 669 shots and landed 229. “He has to fight. If he’s not going to score, he is going to lose the round. Also, if he is laid back, he is going to lose the round,” Tyson said. “Floyd doesn’t throw near a hundred

punches per round. He is more of a scientific fighter. He sits around and pulls it. I don’t think he is going to be able to play that plot. This guy is all over your face. He moves and feints. He is in perpetual motion.” (CBS Sports)

Chelsea maintains five point lead atop Premier League CHELSEA’S good week continued when the Blues beat West Ham 1-0 in the English Premier League to maintain a five-point lead over Manchester City atop the table. Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho -- who picked up another trophy Sunday in the League Cup final -- had never lost to West Ham in the top flight and Belgian attacker Eden Hazard ensured three more points when he netted in the first half Wednesday at the Hammers’ Upton Park. “The game was very difficult,” Hazard told Sky. “One big battle against a good team with very good players. “It’s always difficult when you don’t score the second goal to kill the game. But one goal was enough. It’s not always like this. “The goalkeeper, the defense we have are very strong. It was very good.” Chelsea keeper Thibaut Courtois made a string of good saves in the second half but West Ham boss Sam Allardyce lamented his team’s finishing -- plus the refereeing. He felt Hazard’s goal was offside. “When you look back on the season and they say these things even themselves out, that’s the biggest

Eden Hazard scored the lone goal in Chelsea’s 1-0 win at West Ham in the Premier League on Wednesday.

load of rubbish I’ve ever heard,” the under pressure Allardyce told Sky. Nigel Pearson, manager of lastplace Leicester, also felt aggrieved after his team lost 2-0 to reigning league champion Manchester City. Leicester didn’t get a penalty when City striker Wilfried Bony appeared to foul Jeff Schlupp in the box in the first half or when Fernando fouled Andrej Kramaric in the second. Leicester struck the woodwork, too. City -- reeling following backto-back defeats to Barcelona in the

Champions League and Liverpool -- only really came to life after David Silva’s opener in first-half stoppage time. Leicester’s veteran keeper Mark Schwarzer thwarted City to keep it close but could do little on James Milner’s 88th-minute effort. The win was “very important because it was a very difficult week with two bad results against Liverpool and Barcelona,” said City manager Manuel Pellegrini, who rested club captain Vincent Kompany.

Bolt: I’m in better shape than last year DESPITE losing a sprint to the finish, athletics legend Usain Bolt said he is in better shape than he was last year when injury forced him to miss most of the season. The Jamaican sensation was unable to catch up with Tyquendo Tracey while anchoring an exciting 4×100 metres finish against University of Technology (UTECH) at the 39th staging of the Gibson/McCook Relays over the weekend, reports CMC. Bolt, however, conceded that he needs to get a lot more done if he has to perform to his usual standards this season. “I am getting there. I am not perfect yet. I am in better shape than last season but I need a lot more work. My

coach will now decide what else I need to focus on,” said Bolt. Bolt received the baton behind Tracey and despite making up significant ground, failed to overhaul his rival. However, he said that he has identified his weak areas as he prepares to defend his titles at the Beijing World Championships. “I was happy with the result. It’s always good to get back to the track to get some work in to see what it takes to get back on track. You always try to win every race but what I got from it is that I need more leg power. I will just keep working hard, continue working like I always do and bounce back and show the world that for me it’s never over,” said Bolt. (Indo-Asia News Service)

Rafael Nadal moved on to the same number of titles as Monaco’s compatriot Guillermo Vilas.

Nadal: Argentina Open win equals clay-court title record Spain’s Rafael Nadal won a recordequalling 46th career clay-court title with a 6-4 6-1 victory over home favourite Juan Monaco in the Argentina Open in Buenos Aires. Nadal moved on to the same number of titles as Monaco’s compatriot Guillermo Vilas. The start of the match was delayed because of rain and there was a further hold-up at 1-1 in the opening set.

But once play got started, the 28-year-old swept to an easy victory. “I had the hope of winning here and I prepared very well for this so it’s objective achieved,” the ninetime French Open champion said. It was his first final since winning at Roland Garros last June, having been hampered by a wrist injury and appendicitis in the second half of 2014, and was his 65th career title.

March 7 - 13, 2015

Sports Interational

41

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

McIlroy: ‘Missed cut was a kick in the backside’

Katarina Johnson-Thompson is one of the world’s form athletes, ranked second in the world in the long jump and fourth in the high jump after breaking British indoor records in both events in recent weeks.

Katarina Johnson-Thompson ‘ready’ for European Indoors HEPTATHLETE Katarina JohnsonThompson hopes a fearless attitude will help her win a first major title this week. The Liverpudlian, 22, will compete in the pentathlon for the first time since 2012 at the European Indoor Championships in Prague on Friday. And the Briton has said the foot injury that prevented her from competing at last summer’s European Championships and Commonwealth Games has changed her. “I’m not afraid to compete anymore,” she said. “I’m riled and raring to go.” Johnson-Thompson is one of the world’s form athletes, ranked second in the world in the long jump and fourth in the high jump after breaking British indoor records in both events in recent weeks. The heptathlete, the most highprofile member of an inexperienced British squad, has said she has benefited from last summer’s enforced absence. “I wanted to show the world what I should have done last year so I’m still continuing that journey,” she said. “It didn’t feel very nice to have to sit out and watch two major championships. But this year I haven’t felt nervous to compete or worried, I’ve just wanted to go out

there and compete. It’s obviously helped me as the results are showing. It’s doing me good. “Hopefully getting a medal in the event I actually do will be a huge landmark for me. I’ve never done that before, so it will be ticking one box off at a time. “I’m not going to go in there thinking anything less than gold is like a disappointment. If I come away with a great performance and get the silver I’m still going to be happy with that, but I do feel like I’m in great shape and just want to do well there.” The pentathlon includes five of the heptathlon’s seven events - dropping the javelin and 200m, and with the hurdles run over 60m. Johnson-Thompson’s personal bests of 1.97m in the high jump and 6.93m in the long jump would give her 2,347 pentathlon points nearly half of Jessica Ennis-Hill’s British record of 4,965 in just two events. Toni Minichiello, coach of Olympic champion Ennis-Hill, has said Johnson-Thompson could break his athlete’s record this week. But Johnson-Thompson, whose pentathlon best is 4,526, said: “I’m not really thinking about records. Obviously there are certain landmarks I want to achieve, but I wouldn’t call it a target.” (BBC)

WORLD number one Rory McIlroy has described his missed cut at the Honda Classic as a “kick in the backside” which will do him no harm. McIlroy was speaking in the build-up to the WGC-Cadillac Championship which starts at Doral, Miami, on Thursday. The four-time major winner’s 2015 PGA Tour debut lasted just two days after rounds of 73 and 74 at PGA National . “Sometimes you need a little kick in the backside to make you realise what you need to do,” said the 25-year-old. “I was disappointed but I feel it has given me clarity on what I needed. “I could have approached it two ways. I could have got really down on myself and wondered where that had come from, or thought ‘this was the first event after a three-week break and there were things that needed to be sharper’. “It was my mum’s birthday on the Friday night so we went out for a nice dinner and then got back to work on Saturday.” McIlroy admitted he struggled to play his usual controlled draw in the wind at the Honda Classic. However, he appeared to have quickly ironed out the issue by shooting a 63 to win a pro-member

The four-time major winner’s 2015 PGA Tour debut lasted just two days after rounds of 73 and 74 at PGA National .

event at Seminole Golf Club on Monday. Following the Miami tournament, McIlroy will play in the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, Orlando, before fully turning his attention to trying to complete the career grand slam at the Masters in April. “There is always excitement and anticipation and hype surrounding Augusta and I feel it regardless of whether I am going in there as favourite or under the radar,” the Ryder Cup star added. “It is the first major of the year and really the start of the golfing season for the general public.

“Right now I am taking it week by week. After Bay Hill I will start to think about it more and every practice session will be looking ahead at the shots I need. “I think the best way to go in is to have confidence but sometimes if you go in with low expectations that can help as well. If things were to go the right way at Augusta I would not care if I had gone in there with two wins or two missed cuts.” McIlroy can try to pick the brains of two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson at Doral after being paired with the world number two and third-ranked Henrik Stenson for the two opening days. (BBC)

Barcelona reach 37th Copa del Rey final BARCELONA will meet Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey final after Luis Suarez and Neymar sealed a 6-2 aggregate win over Villarreal. Leading 3-1 from the first leg, Barca struck early through Neymar before Jonathan dos Santos levelled. But after Tomas Pina was sent off for a reckless tackle, Suarez rounded the goalkeeper to put the tie beyond doubt and Neymar added a late header. Bilbao won 2-0 at Espanyol to win their tie 3-1, setting up the 30 May final. The final brings together the two most successful teams in the competition’s history as Barca, with 26 wins, have three more than Los Leones. Despite their cup history, Bilbao have not won major silverware since beating Barca in the 1984 final and they will need to be at their very best if they are to stop Luis Enrique’s current crop, who have won every leg on their way to the final. It will be a first final in the managerial career of Enrique, who declared his side were in a “perfect moment” of form ahead of their visit to El Madrigal as they chase glory in La Liga, the Champions League and

Luis Suarez scored in the clash.

Spain’s domestic cup. It took only three minutes for those words to be ratified as Lionel Messi’s sublime clipped pass over the home defence tempted goalkeeper Sergio Asenjo from his line and Neymar poked in. Enrique’s only concern from the trip to Spain’s east coast will be the health of midfielder Sergio Busquets, who was on the end of an ugly tackle by Pina in the build-up to Dos Santos’s back-post volley. The Spaniard’s ankle rolled under the challenge and he left on a stretcher before play restarted. Tests on Thursday showed the 26-year-old had suffered an ankle

sprain that rules him out of Sunday’s league match with Rayo Vallecano at the Nou Camp. He is also a doubt for the Champions League last-16 return leg against Manchester City on 18 March. By the time Busquets emerged to sit with the coaching staff on the bench late on, Pina had been dismissed for tackling Neymar from behind and with a man advantage, Barca were comfortable when Suarez raced clear to round Asenjo. Pina’s aggression ended what was an intriguing contest and it was left to Neymar to meet a Xavi cross with a straightforward header to complete the scoring.

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Australian rugby star Hayne chases NFL dream with 49ers contract AUSTRALIAN rugby star Jarryd Hayne is swapping the rugby pitch for the gridiron. Several months after announcing his retirement from Australia’s National Rugby League (NRL) and the Parramatta Eels, the 2014 Player of the Year has signed a three-year contract with the San Francisco 49ers. Despite never having played professional American football, the 27-year-old had also attracted interest from a number of other teams, including Super Bowl runners-up Seattle Seahawks and Detroit Lions. Ultimately, however, he chose San Francisco as his destination, not least because new coach Jim Tomsula has experience working with overseas players, having previously helmed the Rhine Fire in the NFL Europe league. “He was probably the one coach that knew the transition better than anyone,” Hayne said in a press conference. The 6’ 2”, 226 lb New South Wales native ran a 4.53 second 40yard dash in a December workout. NFL analyst Daniel Jeremy tweeted his support, saying that he believed Hayne has “an excellent chance” of becoming an excellent punt/kickoff returner. Despite this, the Australian said he was aware of the chances he was

Before his suspension, Hamza Driouch (seen here with Mo Farah) had won the 1500m at the World Junior Championships in 2012 and also competed at the London Olympic Games.

Banned athlete investigated after Mo Farah training pictures Jarryd Hayne recently signed a three-year contract with the San Francisco 49ers.

taking. “This is a huge risk,” NFL.com reported Hayne as saying. “I’m taking a massive leap of faith.” As is his new team. Along with a reported guaranteed $100,000 payday, the 49ers -- Super Bowl runners-up in 2013 -- are taking a punt on an untested prospect, albeit one who will not disrupt their roster, or salary cap. In 2014, Hayne won the NRL’s Dally M awards for Player of the Year, Best Fullback, Top Tryscorer and Representative Player. He has previously won Dally M recognition, most notably in 2009 as Player of the Year.

In nine years with the Eels, he scored 103 tries. He made the decision to switch sports in October last year, saying at the time: “I’m always telling people to chase their dreams and follow their hearts -- if I don’t live by that I’m not being honest with myself.” Despite his lack of hands-on football experience, his new team are confident that his background means that he will be a quick learner. “Hayne comes from an athletic family as his father, Manoa Thompson, is a former professional rugby league player who represented Fiji on the national rugby team,” the 49ers said in a statement. (CNN)

BANNED long-distance runner Hamza Driouch is facing an investigation after posting pictures on Facebook which showed him training with Mo Farah in Ethiopia. Driouch, 20, was suspended from athletics until December 2016 after the World Anti-Doping Agency found irregularities in his biological passport - WADA’s method of testing for doping substances over long periods of time - and was banned from competing or taking part in any training camps. The 20-year-old’s breach of the sanction is not expected to have any possible implications for British double Olympic and world champion Farah, who is not being investigated. “From a common sense perspective, only Driouch and those closely connected to him would be aware of a sanction,” IAAF

spokesman Nick Davies said. “The problem raised here reflects directly on Driouch rather than Farah.” Farah’s agent Ricky Simms said the British athlete was not in Ethiopia as part of a collective training camp. “Mo was in Ethiopia by himself,” said Simms. “He hired some local athletes to pace for him and he wasn’t part of any other training group. It’s not unusual for people to jump in.” Farah, 31, recently broke the twomile indoor record at Birmingham Indoor Grand Prix. He had left the field behind as he stormed home in a time of eight minutes 3.40 seconds breaking Kenenisa Bekele’s previous record of 8:04.34. Before his suspension, Driouch had won the 1500m at the World Junior Championships in 2012 and also competed at the London Olympic Games. (ESPN)

Palmer: Injury won’t stop me from getting the Masters under way HE may be suffering from the effects of a dislocated shoulder -- but golf legend Arnold Palmer has vowed that won’t stop him from hitting his ceremonial opening tee shot at the Masters in Augusta next month. The 85-year-old, speaking to reporters at the Trump Doral resort where he was opening a villa named after him, said he would look forward “to being out on that tee even if I fan it.” Palmer’s injury happened when he had a fall at the Father-Son Challenge in Florida shortly before Christmas. He explained: “I was going to make a speech at the Father-Son and I tripped on a carpet and did a 360.” But the four-time Masters champion, who hit his first ceremonial opening shot back in 2007, said nothing would prevent him from joining fellow greats Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player on the course on April 9 -- even though doctors won’t allow him to swing a golf club just yet. “Oh yeah, I plan on it,” Palmer,

Mick Schumacher, second in the German kart championship last season, will drive for Van Amersfoort Racing.

Schumacher’s son Mick signs deal to race in Formula 4 The 85-year-old golf legend dislocated his shoulder shortly before Christmas.

known as ‘the King,’ said. “I haven’t been practicing... I’m not allowed to swing yet. [But] I will whatever.” Palmer’s Masters triumphs came

in 1958, 1960, 1962 and 1964, and he made his final competitive Masters appearance -- and his 50th in all -- in 2004. (CNN)

MICHAEL Schumacher’s 15-yearold son is to race in Formula 4, a series for promising, young drivers Mick Schumacher, second in the German kart championship last season, will drive for Van Amersfoort Racing. “We have watched his skills in test driving and are looking forward to a successful season,” said the Dutch team’s owner, Frits van Amersfoort.

Michael Schumacher is continuing his rehabilitation following a serious skiing accident in December 2013. The German, who spent nine months in hospital after suffering life-threatening head injuries, is the most successful driver in Formula 1 history with seven titles between 1994 and 2004. His son begins his Formula 4 career in Germany on 25 April. (BBC)

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Westbrook 1st since Jordan to record 4 straight triple-doubles

Alex Rodrigues missed the entire 2014 season after he was suspended for taking steroids.

Rodriguez: New York Yankees slugger begins comeback Alex Rodriguez began his comeback from a 162-game doping ban by hitting a single in a spring training contest. The 39-year-old New York Yankees slugger missed the entire 2014 season after he was suspended for taking steroids. He was greeted by cheers and boos as the Yankees faced the Philadelphia Phillies in Tampa, Florida. Rodriguez, popularly known as ‘A-Rod’, wrote a letter of apology to Yankees fans last month.

His ban was the longest in the sport’s history. Anthony Bosch, the former owner of the Biogenesis clinic in Miami that supplied performanceenhancing substances to Rodriguez and other Major League Baseball (MLB) players, was jailed for four years last month. Rodriguez, fifth on the all-time MLB home run list, has been named most valuable player in baseball’s American League three times. (BBC)

Rugby World Cup: Italy announce bid to host 2023 tournament ITALY will bid to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup. The Italians face competition from Ireland, while South Africa and the United States are also expected to bid. Governing body World Rugby will launch its expression of interest phase for countries aiming to stage the 2023 tournament in May but a final decision is not due until 2017. England hosts this year’s edition, which runs from 18 September to 31 October, with Japan staging it in 2019. Italian Rugby Federation (FIR) president Alfredo Gavazzi said: “I am sure that today Italian rugby has everything you need to organise a memorable Rugby World Cup and that whole movement, in the next two years, will work to ensure that this dream can become a reality.” Italy has never hosted the World Cup, while Ireland staged games in 1991 and 1999 without being the principal hosts. (BBC) Major League Soccer strike avoided after players agree deal The Major League Soccer season will kick off as scheduled on Friday after a new collective bargaining contract was agreed, avoiding the threat of a players’ strike.

The new five-year deal was reached after four days of negotiations. The agreement is a contract to promote the mutual interests of MLS, the players and their union. “I am pleased to announce we have reached an agreement in principle,” said MLS commissioner Don Garber. There was a similar dispute in 2010, although that was resolved with five days to go. The first game of the 2015 season is between champions Los Angeles Galaxy, captained by Robbie Keane, and Chicago Fire (Saturday, 03:00 GMT). Chicago had flown out to LA despite the dispute. As part of the new deal, a form of free agency will be introduced, although it is limited to players 28 years and older with at least eight years in the league. The deal also includes a rise in the minimum wage in the league and the overall team salary cap, although full details are yet to be announced. Former England midfielders Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard will join their MLS franchises, LA Galaxy and New York City respectively, at the end of the current Premier League season. (BBC)

NOT even a dent on the side of his face can stop Russell Westbrook. The Oklahoma City Thunder guard had 49 points, 16 rebounds and 10 assists in Wednesday night’s 123-118 overtime victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, becoming the first player since Michael Jordan in 1989 to record four straight tripledoubles. Westbrook, 26, is the sixth player overall with four straight tripledoubles, joining Jordan, Maurice Stokes, Oscar Robertson, Magic Johnson and Wilt Chamberlain— all of whom are currently in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, per Anthony Slater of The Oklahoman. ESPN’s Marc Stein noted that Chamberlain, the owner of nearly every gaudy NBA record, once recorded nine straight triple-doubles: Westbrook’s fourth came after a one-game absence caused by afractured cheekbone suffered in the waning moments of OKC’s loss toPortland on Friday. Wearing a protective mask over his face, Westbrook came back with a vengeance against Philly. He blasted out of the gate with 16 points and six rebounds in the first quarter alone, aggressively attacking the basket to draw fouls or score near the rim. While his efficiency waxed and waned throughout—as is typical for any Westbrook performance—the aggressiveness never disappeared. Philadelphia veteran Jason Richardson said after the game, per

Russell Westbrook is the sixth player overall with four straight triple-doubles, joining Jordan, Maurice Stokes, Oscar Robertson, Magic Johnson and Wilt Chamberlain—all of whom are currently in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

the Associated Press (via ESPN), “It’s amazing watching him play. You’ve got to take your hats off to this guy. He takes no plays off. He plays hard on both ends of the court. He rebounds. It’s amazing to see a guy who has that much passion about winning.” Westbrook finished the game making 16 of 33 shots and sinking an equal number of shots from the line on 20 attempts. With Kevin Durant out once again with his foot injury and Serge Ibakastruggling en route to two points, Westbrook was at times a

one-man army bent on taking down a Sixers outfit that’s been far more competitive in recent weeks. Dion Waiters added 20 points, and D.J. Augustin had 17, but it was all Westbrook all the time whenever the Thunder needed a basket. In many ways, Westbrook’s heroics are akin to the season-long brilliance of Durant last season. With the New Orleans Pelicans also surging and hot on OKC’s heels for the final playoff spot in the West, these performances aren’t just spectacular—they’re necessary. (Bleachers Report)

Khan to snub Brook as he eyes Cotto fight AMIR Khan is unlikely to face Kell Brook this summer as he looks to negotiate a fight with Miguel Cotto in America. Brook’s promoter Eddie Hearn said last week he had talks with Khan’s team over a proposed fight on June 13 and urged the Bolton boxer to make the bout happen. But Khan, 28, is instead looking at facing Cotto, Juan Manuel Marquez, Timothy Bradley or Chris Algieri on May 30 or June 6. Former world light-welterweight champion Khan is currently discussing his options with adviser Al Haymon and flies out to California later this week to start training for his next fight. Khan, who impressively outpointed Devon Alexander in Las Vegas in December, is looking for an opponent well-known to an American audience after he was left disappointed at not being able to fight either Floyd Mayweather or Manny Pacquiao. The pair face each other on May 2 in the biggest fight for decades

Amir Khan is looking for a well-known opponent.

but British fight fans will have to wait a little longer for the clash of its top two welterweights, Khan and Brook. Brook, 28, makes a first defence of his IBF world title against Canadabased Jo Jo Dan in his home city of Sheffield on March 28.

A source close to the Khan camp told ESPN that the turnaround between Brook’s last fight and possibly facing Khan early in June, along with Khan observing the religious holy month of Ramadan from mid-June, meant “the fight was just not viable”.

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Owls win twice in latest PHL games THE SAUNDERS and Co. Owls won twice in the latest round of the Provo Hockey League (PHL). When action continued last Saturday at the Graceway Sports Centre, the Owls defeated the Coco Bistro Lightning before brushing past the Sailrock Lobsters to move to nine wins. In the clash against the Lightning, the Owls dominated the opening period 5-2, before winning the game 6-3 in full time. Tristan Grandsire led the attack with three goals and two assists, while Dylan Ayer scored twice (both in the first 10 minutes of play). Carson Greatrex added the other goal and an assist. The Lightning were led by Brooke Rivers and Jamie Gray who scored two and one goals respectively. In their second clash the Owls surprised the dominant Sailrock Lobsters (now 8-6-1) with a 5-0 defeat. Ronin Maclaren found the back of the net twice, while Greatrex, Jaden Robinson and Josh Saunders scored the other goals. Greatrex had

however assisted Maclaren in both of his goals. NOVICE DIVISION As in the previous week the Scotiabank Sailfish and the Big Blue Thunders were again victorious. The Sailfish, led by dominant performances from Maddox Jones and Harry Schofield, defeated the Grace Bay Resorts Conchorers 103. Both Jones and Schofield scored five goals each and finished with an assist apiece. The Conchorers were led by Takeem Williams who scored three goals. In the other Novice clash the Thunders battled back from a 2-3 first period deficit to beat the Grace Bay Car Rental Islanders 5-4. Kurt Rivers continued his dominance with all five goals for the winners. Rohan Shearer supported with two assists. For the Islanders Samuel Connolly (also two assists) and Jack Blain (also an assist) finished with two goals each.

MIDGET The Gansevoort Gators led by duo Gabriel Diotte-Joly and Ricaldo Valcin (four goals each) recorded another huge win when play continued in the Midget Division. Against the Twa Marcelin Wolf Pirates the Gators dominated. Valcin scored three of his goals in the opening period as the eventual winners romped to a 5-0 lead after one. Diotte-Joly took over in the second with three goals for an eventual 10-3 win. Darius Coakley (two goals) and Simran Kahlon (one goal) led the Pirates. In the other Midget clash the Digicel Panthers edged past the BCQS Flames 5-4. Matthew Harnett dominated the scoring with three goals in the opener as the Panthers went ahead 4-2. Orin Campbell scored twice late in the second period for the Flames, but it was not enough. Zarek Swann assisted Harnett with a pair. Sean Karam and Sebastian Turbyfield scored the other Flames’ goals.

Turbyfield impresses US coach at Las Vegas Sevens tournament FORMER national rugby player Luis Turbyfield was somewhat successful in his debut for the All-American High School team from the USA, although it ended with him getting a concussion. The 18-year-old scored a try in both games he played in at last month’s Las Vegas Rugby Tournament before a rough tackle ended things early. In his first game (a defeat against top side Ontario (28-15)), Turbyfield side stepped the opposing winger and out-paced him from his (Turbyfield’s) 22 line. Against the Atlantis (an AllAmerican club) Turbyfield again used his pace to beat the opposing winger for a try, but in the second half, he was: “Nailed in mid-air after intercepting a pass and suffered a tournament-ending concussion.” Coach of the USA team Salty Thompson told Turbyfield after the tournament that his skills were good enough to make the 12-man USA U-19 team for a tournament in London, but the former TCI multitalented would turn 19 later this month, which unfortunately would restrict him age wise.

Jevoy Knight is still hoping to make the CARIFTA Games team.

Inter-High Track and Field Championships:

2014 champion boy injured LAST year’s Inter-High School Track and Field Championships champion boy, Jevoy Knight, will most likely miss out on this year’s event after pulling a muscle in his left leg during practice recently. Knight who led the male division in 2014 with 36 points (winning the 100M, 200M, 400M, third in the high jump, and outstanding performances in the 4X100M and the 4X400M) was a main member of the defending champions Clement Howell High School. The 16-year-old, fifth former, told the Weekly News that he was really looking forward to the event (his last) before the injury happened. He was however optimistic

about his situation. “Well it’s better to miss out on this track meet than to get severely injured and can’t run the rest of my career.” At his school meet last month Knight, running in the U-17 class 2, won the 100M, the 200M and the 400M, while in the CHHS Invitational Meet, also in February, he won the 200M and finished tied for first in the 100M (hand timing). Due to the number of top athletes last year Knight did not make the CARIFTA team, this year he was hoping to do so and he looked in good enough form. Knight should be fully fit in a few weeks.

Inter-High Track and Field Championships:

Jean hoping to dominate

Luis Turbyfield in action during the tournament.

Turbyfield was however thrilled with his playing time. “The team itself was amazing, the boys on my team were like family… overall it was an amazing experience

for me…” Turbyfield will now focus on making the USA U-21 team and to play at a high level in college this September.

NATIONAL athlete Wadly Jean will look to make his mark at this year’s National Inter-High School Track and Field Championships which is scheduled from Sunday to Tuesday at the National Stadium in Providenciales. The Grand Turk based athlete is hoping that his dominance at the HJ Robinson’s track day last month could continue at this prestigious event. “I’m very excited to compete at Inter-High,” the 18-year-old stated. At his high school track meet, Jean won the U20 100M (10.24s), the 200M (22.10s), the 400M (51s) and the long jump (6.38M). He also competed in the 4X100M and 4X400M relay which helped him to champion boy status. He will compete in all those events next week. The fifth former, who represented the TCI at CARIFTA last year in the

National athlete Wadly Jean will look to use his experience and exposure at the national event.

Octathlon (eight events), is also very focused on CARIFTA Games billed for St. Kitts and Nevis in early April.

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Fenelus in Scorpions try-out – After New England Revolution opts out NATIONAL footballer Marco Fenelus is currently trying out with the San Antonio Scorpions for a place in the side after being recently released by the Massachusetts based professional club the New England Revolution. The 22-year-old was drafted with the 5th pick in the 3rd round (47th overall selection) in the Major League Soccer 2015 Super Draft in January. “New England told me on Saturday night that they wouldn’t sign me,” Fenelus told the Weekly News this week. “They gave all these compliments about what a good player I am, but ended the sentence by saying “unfortunately we can’t sign you because we already have too many midfielders.”

a great player, and there’s no other way better than playing with him,”

Fenelus added. The former Cal State Fullerton

Titans star player will have to wait a few days to know his fate.

Prior to him being drafted the Scorpions had liked what they had seen and had wanted to sign the former Academy player. PLAYING WITH FORBES Fenelus acknowledged that getting into the US football market was a difficult task. “Well nothing comes easy in the US, so first I got to try to make the roster [of the Scorpions].” If he does, Fenelus said he is looking forward to playing with Billy Forbes. Forbes, who is also a national TCI football, was outstanding for the Scorpions last season. “It will be great playing alongside Billy, just like old times when we were in the academy. Obviously he’s

Marco Fenelus had an outstanding junior career with Western Texas College and the Cal State Fullerton University.

Delano Williams (right) led the UWI to a new record in the 4X400M relay.

Williams runs PB split in 4X400M – helps break UWI record TCI born Delano Williams stormed to a career best split when he led the University of the West Indies 4X400M relay team last Saturday at the Gibson McCook Relays in Jamaica. The world rated Williams, arguably the best of the four sprinters on the team, had darted to an impressive lead after starting the race. The lead was maintained, but was significantly

reduced in the second leg, before the penultimate runner fell to fourth place—a position which the team finished in. Nevertheless Williams’s early dominance, a 44.7s split, was good enough for the team as they darted to 3.06.5s just faster than the previous longstanding record of 3.06.9s. Prior to this race, Williams’s best split was 44.8s.

The TCI Flamingos are in Bermuda for a NACRA Rugby Championships game on Saturday.

TCI Flamingos set for Bermuda battle THE TCI national rugby team the Flamingos will battle Bermuda for the first time in the North American and Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) Rugby Championships this Saturday in an away game at the National Sports Centre. Despite preparing over the last few months, the visiting TCI team starts as underdogs to the home side in the first of our two North Zone Cup League games. National captain Joe Ryan told the Bermuda Gazette this week that the Flamingos are not sure what they are up against. Ryan said that TCI has both experience (in older more

knowledgeable players) and a younger faster group. “A number of the guys, including myself, are at the other side of our careers. “We have plenty of experience, but it’s hard to turn up every time and put out the performance that you want. “We have a group of young lads from the Island who have some blistering pace, but are just a little bit green in some areas, but we’ve been working on that and trying to get a way of playing together that will work with what we have,” he told the Gazette. TCI are scheduled to play Bahamas on April 18th in Providenciales and Ryan is a bit more optimistic about a

win in that game. “Bermuda is a game where we’re hoping for a result, but we’re certainly not expecting it,” Ryan said. “With Bahamas we’re hoping that we’ll be able to do what we didn’t do last year. We’ll see.” The national team reads: Jesse Owen, Sean O’Neill, Terrico Misick, Jahmal Missick, Neil French, Simon Taylor, Callis Jones, Miguel Malcolm, Blair Mason, Joe Ryan, Dean Griffith, Gareth Butler, Franco Mompremier, Alyx Williams, Hendriks Joseph, Michael Williams, Shalone Robinson, Mark DeFraine, Mark Francis, Kadis Simmons, Paul McKenzie and James Schofield.

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March 7 - 13, 2015

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March 7 - 13, 2015

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