Issue No.505 Wednesday, 8 October 2003

Afghanistan asylum seekers Nek Nazar Nazary, Mohammad Raza Hussani and Ali Sha Yusufi have won their appeal to remain in the Cayman Islands, Cayman Net News has learned from well-informed sources.

Attorneys acting for the appellants could not comment on the appeal case because of a "gag-order" imposed by the tribunal not to comment at this time, indicating that a press release will be issued this week Wednesday.

Terms of the appeal are not currently known, although sources report that the asylum is conditional, and that if the social and political situation in Afghanistan improves, the three men might have to return to their homeland.

The Immigration Appeals Tribunal is reported to have applied the 1951 International Refugee Convention in allowing the Afghans to remain in the Cayman Islands indefinitely.

The three Afghans appeared in the Cayman Islands just over three years ago and have been fighting ever since for the right to stay. On arrival to the Islands, the three men carried no personal or immigration documentation.

The men said they fled to Cayman to escape the influence of Osama bin Laden and the Taliban, and the persecution and brutal killings of Afghanistan's three minority ethnic groups, the Tajik, Ozbik and Hazara.

They spent their first 10 months on the Island in detention at HM Northward Prison before they were released. After the events of 9/11, they spent a further month incarcerated, but were subsequently released again following a Court Order.

The Afghans were then allowed by the Court to appeal their case for political asylum and a timetable was set for when His Excellency the Governor would hear the case. Before the case could be heard, the jurisdiction policy was changed and the decision was made that all appeal cases would be presented before the newly formed Immigration Appeals Tribunal.

In a prior interview with Cayman Net News, Mr Nazary indicated that all three men had faith in the judicial system of the Cayman Islands and that they would trust and respect any decision made.

"Everyone living on and visiting the Cayman Islands should not fear us. We are all victims of the exact same terrorism and of the same barbarism that was committed against the people in the United States."

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North Side Monument Unveiled as part of Quincentennial Celebration

At the unveiling of the North Side monument were (l-r) North Side MLA Mrs. Edna Moyle, Mrs Kerry Bush, the Leader of Government Business Hon McKeeva Bush, HE the Governor Mr. Bruce Dinwiddy, Mrs Emma Dinwiddy, Quincentennial National Chairman Mr. Ezzard Miller, Quincenntial Executive Director Mrs. Angela Martins and North Side District Chairman Mr. Eddington Powell.

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CAL's new jet to arrive next month

Cayman Airways (CAL) is scheduled to take delivery of a Boeing 737-300 aircraft on 14 November, according to informed sources.

The longer range 300 series jet will enable the airline to provide non-stop service to their new route in Chicago, which commences 17 December. The aircraft will also feature two-classes, economy and either first class or business.

The acquisition will also allow CAL to reach New York, Boston, Baltimore, Cincinnati and Los Angeles with direct flights, all additional routes the national flag carrier is considering.

Rather than buying outright, CAL will lease the jet. Sources indicated that representatives of the company leasing the aircraft were on the Island this week to finalise the terms of the lease.

Vice president of Sales and Marketing for CAL, Mr. Rick Blake, indicated that people are already buying tickets for the new route that flies direct to Chicago on Wednesdays and Sundays. "It's a new route, so it take a little time to develop," he said, "We've tried to create excitement by offering an outstanding introductory price."

Prices for roundtrip tickets purchased by 15 November for travel for the commencement of the route through 11 February, 2004, are US$319 travelling in either direction.

The Midwestern multi-state region of the United States centred around Chicago is the second largest source of tourists arriving in Cayman by air from that country. "These flights should only help those arrival numbers," said Mr. Blake.

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News

Vendors ensure food safety during Pirates Week

DEH Health Officer and Course Instructor, Mr Gideon Simms speaks to Pirates Week vendors who want to ensure the public's food safety during the festivities.

The Department of Environmental Health (DEH) held its second food safety course for Pirates Week food vendors on Wednesday, 1 October.

DEH Health Officer and Course Instructor, Mr Gideon Simms said, "Vendors are learning the guidelines and safety measures that are necessary to deliver food safely." He explains that participants are being educated about temperature control, personal hygiene, and bacteriology. "We want to do everything we can to ensure that everyone has a positive experience while not compromising food safety," he says.

Director for the department, Mr Roydell Carter also notes that food safety officers will conduct surveillance checks on food venders during Pirates Week festivities. "I strongly encourage those people who plan to operate food stands to take one of these courses," he concludes.

The final course for Pirates Week vendors will be held on Tuesday, 21 October, 8:45 am to 4 pm. Graduates of the course will receive certificates indicating that they have been trained in proper food handling procedures. Each course costs CI$15.00 and should be pre-paid. For more information or to sign up for the course, contact DEH at 949-6696.

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New programme to provide cancer-screening vouchers

Because of the proven link between cancer screening and cancer prevention, the Cayman Islands Cancer Society is launching a new programme to provide cancer-screening vouchers.

The goal of this programme is to make year-round availability of cancer-screening vouchers for those who are in need of the screening tests, but are not properly covered by health insurance.

This concept was successfully piloted this month when the business community helped the Cancer Society to provide colonoscopies to nine individuals.

As a part of this programme, the screening-test providers have agreed to donate a certain number of screenings at a reduced price to the Society. The Cancer Society intends to liaise with the medical community in order to ensure that the vouchers will go to those who need them most.

Businesses operating in the Cayman Islands are being invited by the Cancer Society to purchase cancer-screening vouchers instead of the Christmas cards that they would normally send to their clients and friends. If businesses cannot participate at Christmas-time, the Cancer Society invites them to contribute at any time throughout the year.

By forwarding a cheque to the Cancer Society, and stipulating that it is to be used for the voucher programme, businesses will enable the Cancer society to forward the funds to the screening providers, thereby making vouchers available.

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Island Museum appeal

The Cayman Islands National Museum is creating an exhibition about the Caymanian schooner, Lydia E Wilson and is appealing to anyone who may have some knowledge about her.

The Wilson was built in 1931 by H. Elroy Arch, and launched from the Arch shipyard. Remains of the shipyard are signposted on the Cayman Island maritime heritage trail and can be seen near the Atlantis submarine building in George Town.

The Wilson was used a great deal during the turtling industry and was renowned locally for its beauty, speed and gracefulness in the water. There are still many people living on the island today that sailed on her.

The exhibit will largely feature paintings detailing the history of the Wilson, with a few artifacts on show and the museum has already had a compass donated that was used on the vessel. Tragically she burned at her mooring in 1968.

Anyone who has any photographs or stories about the Lydia E Wilson please contact the curatorial staff on 949-2395 or 949-8368.

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CITA offers half-year membership subscription

Businesses are being are offered a half-year subscription fee of CI$175 to become a member of the Cayman Islands Tourism Association (CITA), the Cayman Islands only trade association for sustainable and profitable tourism.

The CITA is half way into its 2003/04 financial year and from this month, future members can enroll to receive CITA membership benefits for six months until 31 March, 2004.

The CITA provides leadership, guidance and appropriate services for the benefit of its members and so contributes to a viable and sustainable tourism industry. There are a number of membership benefits available to businesses directly or indirectly associated with tourism. Providing the vital united representation of tourism related groups in the Cayman Islands necessary to compete within the region and worldwide is one of the main benefits that members are assured to receive. CITA members' ideas, concerns, opinions and economic interests, are well represented in the Cayman Islands and the Caribbean.

The membership consists of allied and land based attractions, condominiums, hotels, restaurants, transport operations and watersports operations and these members receive benefits through the results that the CITA achieves in its key business areas of marketing and events, industry development, industry advocacy and membership services.

Businesses that would like a piece of the potential increase in stay-over visitors to the Cayman Islands in summer 2004 are encouraged to become a member of the CITA for inclusion in the 2004 summer promotion.

The CITA and its members are working with the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism on this and a number of marketing projects to increase visitor arrivals for the remainder of 2003 and upcoming 2004. These joint projects include but are not limited to strategic marketing planning, co-op advertising and trade show representation, such as the Diving Equipment and Marketing Association (DEMA) trade show this week.

There are a number of sector specific marketing initiatives and events that businesses can benefit from by being a member of the CITA. Take for example, the restaurant showcase and culinary exhibit, Taste of Cayman, held every summer. This event has proved to a reliable and consistent creator of new customers for restaurants and other exhibitors.

Members will also benefit from the improvements and progress made by the CITA in the area of industry development, which includes access to customer service training and other training and educational opportunities at a minimal cost and the increased positive community awareness of tourism as an important industry.

CITA members have representation on nearly every government and regulation agency, as a result, benefit by having their ideas, opinions and interests heard and acted upon. CITA members benefit from the results achieved in industry advocacy, which includes submissions to the government on a number of proposed laws, policies and projects, such as, the employment relations law, the George Town harbour development and the tourism management policy. Many of the CITA's recommendations have been instituted and recognised by the Cayman Islands Government.

Businesses looking to access services and products at a discount will benefit from CITA membership services, such as, group health insurance policies and discounts on marketing and advertising. Members also receive a free listing on the CITA's soon to be launched website, which is expected to be very well used by CITA members and the general public. CITA members can take advantage of the access they will have to the CITA membership of 230 businesses through numerous networking opportunities, shared member information and relationship building opportunities.

Businesses interested in becoming a member of the CITA and would like to know more about the membership benefits are asked to call Carolyn Lawe Smith at 949-8522 or email carolyns@candw.ky.

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Voices raised in harmony worldwide to aid hospices

The National Choir singing at the Hospices in Harmony concert.

Jocelyn Germain, one of the directors of Cayman Hospice Care.

H. E. the Governor, Mr Bruce Dinwiddy and his wife choose some items at the "Hospices in Harmony," concert.

Hospices In Harmony, was a charity concert that took place on Saturday at the Lions Centre in George Town, to raise money for Cayman Hospice Care. It was part of a worldwide series of concerts, stretching from New Zealand to the west coast of Canada, 465 concerts in 43 countries."
Described as the world's largest simultaneous singing event, Voices for Hospices started in each country at 7.30 pm local time. The concerts were intended to create a Mexican Wave of musical performance across the globe.
The concerts reflected a wide range of musical tastes and styles all in celebration of the work of the international hospice and palliative care movement. They have taken place every three years, since 1991, but this is the first time that the Cayman Islands have participated.
Jocelyn Germain, one of the directors of Cayman Hospice care, said,:"This is a brand new event here, to publicise the work of hospices and palliative care units throughout the world".
Ms Germain went on to describe the holistic nature the work that Cayman Hospice Care does. "We not only take care of their physical pain, but their social, emotional, and spiritual pain as well," she said.
Sue Horrocks, director of Cayman National Choir, said she thought the choir's performance had gone well, adding, "It is local hospice care that benefits, not some charity way off in the distance."
The performers included Earl la Pierre, the Cayman National Choir, the Cayman National Orchestra, the rock group Body and Soul, Miss Jackie's School of Dance, Sea 'n' B, the Café Med Salsa Dancers and Robyn Whatley.
H. E. the Governor, Mr Bruce Dinwiddy, said: "It is terrific to be involved in this worldwide event," adding that it was a shame not to be on the beach. He continued: "It's marvelous to see the tremendous effort that everyone has gone to, to make this a really enjoyable evening."
Nigel Clifford, the Chairman of Cayman Hospice Care, particularly enjoyed Body and Soul's rendition of the Dire Straights' song, Sultans Of Swing, and said he would like to see twice as many people attending the event next time.

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Who will be crowned Cayman's Universal Beauty?

Our Little Miss (OLM) pageant, a division of Cayman's Universal Beauty, which provides competition for everyone, including boys, will be held on Friday and Saturday at the Harquail Theatre.
On Friday at 7 pm the boys, ranging in age from 9 months to 12 years, will grace the stage, and compete for the title of Cayman's Most Handsome. That evening will also see young ladies parading in eveningwear during the Livin' Doll competition!

The main event will take place on Saturday night at 7 pm where 30 young ladies will compete for the coveted Cayman's Universal Beauty titles that are divided into eight divisions. The girls range in age from 10 months to 29 years and will compete in casual and formal wear onstage.

The reigning Cayman's Our Little Miss Royalty, as well as visiting World's Universal Beauty Queens, Ms Kathleen Boyd and Mrs Nikki Chinners will provide entertainment.

The winners of this year's pageant will represent Cayman at the 2004 World's Universal Beauty finals in Jackson, Mississippi in January.

Our Little Miss is a year-round scholarship pageant that focuses on building character, leadership and community by providing an outlet that give recognition to beautiful and talented babies, children and young ladies throughout the Cayman Islands. Being selected as a Queen is an honour that is cherished by all who have captured the titles in the past. The winner must wear her crown with honour and dignity and she must at all times represent OLM and her title with love, kindheartedness and modesty.

Tickets are on sale from all contestants, the Harquail Theatre or are available on the night and are priced $10 and $15.

For further information about the pageant you can log onto www.ourlittlemiss.ky.

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Lions give their backing to world sight day

World Sight Day is being observed this year by Lions International including the Lions of the Cayman Islands tomorrow (Thursday).

The Goal of Lions International is to increase awareness of the conditions that cause blindness and through it's many SightFirst projects work on eliminating blindness.

Through Lions' work, millions of patients who have gone blind from cataract have had their sight restored and that's not for any one continent or country, it's all over the world including countries like India, Kenya, Nepal, South Africa, Colombia, Argentina and Chile and also right here at home in our Cayman Community.

When the sight of someone who was blind has been restored it has a tremendous impact on society.
Blindness from cataract is another item on Lions unfinished agenda. Lions feel that there is no reason why in this day and age there should be 20 million people blind from cataract and not able to access a cataract operation.

Another major cause of blindness is Diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy.

It's fast becoming a problem even in developing countries.

Another ongoing sight project for Lions is Glaucoma education. Glaucoma is a disease that causes 15 percent of the worlds blindness and Unlike cataract blindness it is reversible, so the challenge is early examinations and early treatment.

For World Sight Day extra emphasis is placed on public education to create awareness of the conditions that are potential causes of blindness.

SightFirst is a global initiative that mobilizes Lions to prevent blindness and restore sight. This Lions fiscal year July 2003 to June 2004 Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) approved 625 projects in 79 countries for a total of US$148 million.

According to one doctor, "Little drops of water make the mighty ocean ".

Lions along with their local community pledge on this world sight day to continue the vision of Lions International and that is "For all the world to See."

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DoT conducts seminars for Canadian agents

(l-r) Cheryl Allan, Marlene Bodden, Sharon Mitchell, Daniel Quinn, Nadia Stradling, Oneisha Richards and Zoelynn Winters at the Travel Agent seminars.
The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism (DoT) in Canada, together with their industry partners, recently conducted a week-long series of educational seminars for travel agents in key cities including Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal.

The seminars were designed to educate agents on the diverse tourism product in the Cayman Islands and update them on the latest developments. The travel agents also had the opportunity to interact one-on-one with Cayman tourism representatives prior to the presentation.

The Cayman delegation that participated in the sessions comprised of Department of Tourism officials and private sector members. The delegation consisted of Daniel Quinn, Marketing and Promotions Manager, CIDoT; Oneisha Richards, Marketing Communications Officer, CIDoT; Marlene Bodden, General Manager, Regal Beach Club; Sharon Mitchell, General Manager, London House; Nadia Stradling, Sales & Marketing Manager, Comfort Suites & Resort; and Patti Lampman, Operations Manager, Spanish Bay Reef and Beach Club Colony.

They were also joined by Toronto-based representatives from Air Canada Vacations, Hyatt Regency Grand Cayman, Cayman Villas and Cayman Resorts.

The seminar proved to be informative for both the Travel Agents as well as the Cayman delegation.

During the seminars, Air Canada announced an increase in their Toronto Grand Cayman service with four flights a week effective mid-December 2003.

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General Motors starts internship programme

General Motors International Sales (GMIS) has announced the start of its new internship programme.
This programme is a first for GMIS in the Cayman Islands and has been based on the well-proven GM Global Internship Programme already established in other larger jurisdictions.

The overall goal is to provide the opportunity for young Caymanians to not only gain training in an international company, but be specific as to what aspect of the business they would like to learn.
After a stringent selection process, Kristina Montemayor was the candidate to be chosen. Having started on 4 August, Kristina will be concentrating primarily on the finance side of the company but will gain invaluable experience across almost all areas of GMIS' business.

"It's a great company and the team have made me feel at home straight away," says Kristina. "Learning the systems and invoicing processes has been quite challenging but with the help of my new colleagues, I've got to grips with it already", she adds.

Kristina continues her studies in accountancy and finance at ICCI and has the ultimate ambition to become a fully-qualified accountant. This type of internship provides exactly the essential practical experience that young people need to be able to fully appreciate the academic side of their studies and will no doubt lead them on to be valuable future members of Cayman's business community.

GMIS' new Cayman internship programme has been specifically designed to impart the philosophies of a large, well-established company on a local basis. While the full training is being given, the intern receives a monthly salary, pension, health benefits and all the other perks associated with a full time job.

"Through this programme we intend to provide a real springboard for Kristina's career", says GMIS' Managing Director Luis Ribé. "The hands-on practical experience will help Kristina to decide on a specific career direction while the income from work can help to defray some educational expenses, he concludes.

The six-month programme will take Kristina through a wide variety of roles and is very much
considered a two-way process. She will be assessed and rated for competency in a range of areas including performance, ability to learn, adaptability, communication skills and initiative amongst others. Kristina's inspiration comes from her parents and is summed up in the

following statement " I will do my best in whatever comes my way in life and always strive to do my
best following my dreams and desires".

This goes hand-in-hand with GMIS' policy in creating this internship.

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Editorial

Cayman No Dictatorship

Recently, those opposed to the current Government of the day have been bandying about the words 'dictator' and 'dictatorship' quite often to express their view that decisions are now being made unilaterally by a small number of individuals with disregard to the wishes of the public majority.

Certainly, the rhetorical usage if the word "dictator" evokes a strong emotional response from people as they conjure up images of despots such as Saddam Hussein, Idi Amin, Augusto Pinochet, Josef Stalin and Adolph Hitler.

While elevating the word dictator to buzzword status might be an effective rallying cry for those who want to see change, people should be aware before speaking or writing the term not only of its implications, but also of the potential consequences of its frivolous usage.

There have been numerous dictatorships throughout the world just in the past century, and many still exist today. One thing is absolutely certain, however: the residents of the Cayman Islands enjoy a lifestyle and freedom unlike any who have lived under the iron boot of a true dictator.

Historically, the earth's dictators have used similar methods in attaining their goals, which ultimately boil down to the perpetual retention of wealth and power. No dictator has done this without the use of armed forces and the widespread propagation of fear to keep the masses in line.

In past dictatorships, opposition to the ruling party has been prohibited, and punishable by imprisonment or death. There are no public meetings to discuss the merits of issues in countries subjected to this type of rule. To prevent even the inkling of opposition and to mould public thought, the dissemination of information and news from various media is strictly controlled and sanitised by dictatorial governments.

People who live in countries ruled by a dictatorship rarely have freedom of movement, and most can just barely eke out a living.

Given the structure of past dictatorships, it is really quite an exaggeration to say that the people of the Cayman Islands are subjected to such tyranny.

No matter how unwise, unjust or unpopular a person feels the recent decision by Government are in respect to the near 2,000 grants of Caymanian Status, the constant and erroneous usage of 'dictator' can cause great harm to this country, since that word is the last thing a foreign investor wants to hear or read in relation to a country where he or she has invested, or are considering such a venture.

Recently during a debate speech about the Cayman Status issue, one politician used another example of hyperbole, when he said that the country was on the verge of civil war.

In this age of Internet, stories of a dictatorship or civil war in the Cayman Islands could spread quickly and inflame the already troublesome reputation the country has with the international media. The words might just be taken seriously by some less familiar with the real situation here. Since we rely heavily on our financial industry, the effects could be very damaging to our commerce.

These are contentious political times here in Cayman, and with the advent of a two-party system, the charged emotions of party politics are beginning to grip the country. Differences in opinion are inevitable, just as both sides believing their preference is correct is inevitable.

What everyone resident here should remember, however, in that the Cayman Islands is no longer a little, almost unnoticed, dot on the map, but a major player in the global financial industry. As such, we are scrutinised by interested individuals and organisations all over the world, some of whom, for competitive reasons, would relish the chance reporting political upheaval here.

Though the opposing parties are already working diligently to win the next election, it must be realised that we will still have to live here after the votes are counted. No election outcome is worth risking our country's continued prosperity, so everyone should keep the rhetoric away from exaggerations that might come back to haunt us.

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News about Cayman in the Foreign Press

News about Cayman in the Foreign Press

Scottish estates owned through Cayman
EDINBURGH, Scotland According to the Sunday Herald, an investigation by the research organisation Who Owns Scotland has established that dozens of Scotland's largest estates are owned "offshore" in
tax havens such as the Cayman Islands.

Cayman company sues to recover $750,000
BRISBANE, Australia The Courier-Mail reports that Cayman Islands-based Airport Portfolio Management Ltd is suing Global Air Operations Pty Ltd in Brisbane to recover US$750,000 in respect of a cancelled air charter for the President of Cameroon.

Cayman spammers?
LONDON, England According to Reuters News Service, Alyn Hockey of ClearSwift, a UK anti-spam software firm, asks, "What happens when you have spammers coming from the Cayman Islands? Who are you going to sue? They don't have any laws."

South Africans will have to travel to Cayman
CAPE TOWN, South Africa According to Personal Finance, the new Financial Intelligence Centre Act means that South Africans with unauthorised foreign assets will have to travel to the Cayman Islands, or wherever their money is, for advice.

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Sister Islands Report

Island Air: It's so much more than just another airline, with its vital deliveries

Marcus Cuber , Island Air Operations manager: We're the connection with the outside world

Island Air provides more than just transport between the sister islands. Operations Manager, Mr. Marcus Cumber says, "We provide shipments of daily bread, patties, post and newspapers deliveries.
"We're the connection with the outside world by delivering FedX and other courier packages. Our company began in 1987 with one plane and by 1991 we'd grown to three. The Tornado has room for 19 passengers and the other two each have seating for nine.

"Five flights are made each day to the sister islands and we have an excellent safety record." said Mr Cumber. "We've had 30,000 landings without incident."

Her added: "More than 500 free tickets are issued annually for some charities and non-profit societies such as the National Trust. Each month a veterinarian staff is flown over to facilitate the veterinary needs of the residents with pets who have no such service in place on the island. Injured animals are flown over for emergency medical attention."

But it not all plain sailing or flying. "From 1 October, we are required to pay landing fees on all our transport flights", said Mr Cumber.

"This is in direct conflict with a verbal agreement with government back in 1991, when the then Minister of Tourism and Aviation, Mr Thomas Jefferson, agreed to waive all past debts and future landing fees.
"Our company was in a bankrupt state and we were assured that government would back this offer, knowing our company provided an essential service to the islands. However, it was never put in writing and each new Minister since the original agreement has overtly dismissed the signing of such an agreement.

"I find this highly unfair that government can subsidise Cayman Airways when we are a privately owned Caymanian business that provides daily flights to both Cayman Brac and Little Cayman (where Cayman Air can't even land)."

Mr. Cumber said that as a result of paying these additional fees, "we are forced to raise our fares commencing immediately."

The news of this conflict was broken in Monday's edition of Cayman Net News.

Mr. Cumber added: "Other services rendered by Island Air include, air ambulance, flight-seeing tours of the islands by air and fixed base operations to service privately owned aircraft and jets. Landing fees paid by Island Air for the provision of these services are pumped back to the economy of the islands and in essence go towards subsidizing Cayman Airways."

The services of FBO are varied and unique to their individual customers. "Some customers are residents of the islands, while others are occasional or first time visitors. Many such clients are high profile personalities who depend upon their anonymity to allow Cayman to become a destination for them.

"We will book hotels for accommodations and set up meetings, set up executive limousine services, provide a large hangar for rental space on a monthly or night-to-night basis."

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Artist's dream: To recreate the lost city of Atlantis in Cayman Brac waters

Brac Bash revelers enjoy the evening.

He is known simply as Foots. His art speaks for itself.

"I was born in Munich, Germany, reared in the states, traveled extensively and have been sculpting and designing since the age of nine. I've worked in all mediums and for the past 18 years I've practiced my art here on the Brac.

"By merging my talents with my love for my new home, the government has reviewed my works and granted me permission to donate my art for an underwater theme park. So far I've donated $10,000 worth of my art to the Cayman Islands Government and Cayman Brac with much more to follow.
"I've retired and made Cayman Brac my permanent home. The government, members of SITA (Sister Island Tourism Association) and many local business people and residents are very supportive of my works."

The underwater theme park will begin in the channel in West End south side at Carib Sands and continue down to the Divi Tiara Resort. Children and adults will be able to swim and snorkel close to shore and enjoy the underwater spectacle.

Artist known as Foots with stainless steel sphere at Divi Tiara Beach Resort. First in a series of projects to be sank in West End's channel

Foots' passion for diving has combined well with his art. Pieces of art to be sunk will include a world sphere made from stainless steel, manta rays, eagle rays and a series of mermaids made from pre-cast. Land-based sculptures will also be included as a part of the theme.

"I will do this at no cost, for the love of my new home and my passion of art," he said.

Foots spoke of his most ambitious massive vision to recreate the lost city of Atlantis and stage it underwater at Radar Reef off the beach of Stake Bay.

He said: "This will be my greatest endeavour. I intend to design and recreate the ruins of the most sought after artifact since the days of modern man.

"The works will take hundreds of tons of precast and will replicate the massive columns, statues and structures that underwater archeologists hope to one day find. I feel that particular site is perfect for such a project and divers, as well as snorkelers for many generations to come, will be able to enjoy it. Such a project will really put Cayman Brac on the map for divers and make the Brac an even more special place than it is now."

Foots' largest project to date was in 1989 where he sculpted the designs to the three facades of the New Auburn University library. More than 1,000 terracotta pieces were used and the cost of that building was more than $27 million. His other projects include the restoration of historic buildings and churches around the world, especially in Germany, Austria and Iran.

Speaking from his home-cum-studio on the south side of Cayman Brac, he said: "I am (and prefer to be) known as Foots, which is what I've been called most of my life.

"A lot of people think that is my surname and when I was asked about my first name a few days ago, I said 'it starts with a 'J'.' The person asked if it was James or John and I just smiled and said it was 'Just'; Just Foots".

The 7ft tall artist explained his ability to hold something in his massive hands and replicate the object in a suitable medium within 20 minutes. His home is a gallery of his works and he shares his giant sized living space with a small tabby kitten that was rescued from the bush.

While playing with his kitten, he said: "I feel animals are a precious gift from God. Plans are under way for me to create and donate some of my works to the Brac Branch of the Humane Society. The pieces will be auctioned off and all the proceeds will go to the support of the group in their efforts to safeguard the welfare of the homeless cats and dogs on the island."

The outspoken artist sees himself as a resource to be used for non-profit associations. He went on to say: "I welcome ideas and comments from anyone interested in my works and if I can assist any such charitable organizations, I will be glad to talk with them. I can be reached on my email address footscaymanbrac@yahoo.com."

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Brac hosts 'mock tour' for FCCA members

Picture of tranquility: Miss Elizabeth and feline friends.

It would seem unjust to only recognise Miss Elizabeth Hurlston for her
volunteer work at the Cayman Humane Society. She has made a profession of volunteering.

"I feel that. particularly older people, should spend their time reaching out to help others by volunteering their services. There is so much joy in doing something for others. Anyone can do it, and I don't understand why more people don't do it", she said.

Recently, this vivacious lady who is nearing 90 years of age, discovered she had osteoporosis which resulted in a fracture of her lower spine. Since then, Miss Elizabeth can't bend or lift.

"I'm deeply distress that I'm no longer able to perform my duties at the animal shelter," she said.
For the past four years on Tuesdays and Thursdays she spent her mornings cleaning the litter boxes, cat cages, dishes and toys. Once they were cleaned and given fresh litter, food and water, Miss Elizabeth would get her just reward.

Her greatest pleasure was to pet each and every one of her feline friends in the shelter's cat room.
She said: "I enjoyed every minute of my work at the shelter. I would encourage everyone and anyone who can, to support the (CHS) shelter in anyway possible."

Miss Elizabeth expressed her disappointment that because of her injuries, she would not make her annual trip with the volunteer group Ministries In Action. The local group operating out of Miami consists of 16 residents who volunteer their time constructing buildings to aid the poverty-stricken communities of Haiti.

Ministries in Action does holistic work constructing such buildings as clinics and church buildings. One clinic was built for the male nurse there, who had to work from his small living space which functioned as his bedroom, living space and clinic," said Miss Elizabeth.

When asked what her duties comprised of, Miss Elizabeth added, "many tasks, including carrying building materials to the sites, such as blocks and bricks."

On one occasion, an old man stopped her when he saw she was carrying two five-gallon pails. He told her in his native Creole language: "You are too old and should go lie down."

"Understanding a little Creole, but not able to properly converse, I responded to him by doing a little jig. Then he told me it was too hot, so I showed him I was wearing a hat. He gave up and just gave me a hug."

The volunteers make their annual pilgrimage each Easter weekend and spend a week doing manual labour.

"Accommodation is a makeshift dorm in a converted, empty classroom and bath facilities consist of one outside pit toilet and a shower that's an upside down drum", she said.

"The group of 16 volunteers is varied in ages. I'm the oldest. Ten years ago when my grandson was 14 years old, he made the trip with me. It disturbs me that not many Caymanians are involved in this organization and I can't understand why.

"We also seem to be able to attract youngsters to do volunteer work in Mexico, but not so successful at getting them to HaitiWhen pressed to comment if she was concerned for her safety in such an environment, Miss Elizabeth said, "these are Christians who take us in and protect us like family. If there was danger, they wouldn't allow us to come."

Not all her duties are quite so strenuous. Much time is spent with the women sewing circles or square patches of donated material to make sheets, skirts or shirts.

When asked why she did not just ask for donations of sheets and materials, Miss Elizabeth said: "We bring these crafts to allow them to add colour to their otherwise drab and dismal surroundings. The colourful, non-battened quilts are used as coverings over plantain or banana trash for their bedding."

An additional nickname for Miss Elizabeth has sprung out of this project she engineered. Elmslie Memorial has two members named Miss Elizabeth. A distinction was needed. Since she was the one that was always requesting donations of circles and squares, she was dubbed affectionately as "Miss Squircles".

The Pink Ladies at the hospital also claim this well-rounded volunteer. Ill people, impoverished communities and homeless animals have a real advocate in this tireless volunteer.

Though she is disappointed with her forced retirement, she lives with five cats who try their best to distract her. Their mutual devotion to is apparent in the shared home.

Her feline family members are Sandy and Sissy, (both Siamese), Sassy, a shorthaired black and white, Sunny the tabby and Suzi the grey and white. Sassy tips the scales at lbs! Sissy, recovering from a recent accident with a car is rehabilitating in the quiet upstairs. Sandy, Sunny and Suzi wait patiently for their turn for attention.

Miss Elizabeth sadly reflected on a time several years ago when all her previous cats were lost to feline leukemia that was in an epidemic stage on the island.

She went to, "My husband had just died and my room mate had left on an extended leave and not one cat to keep me company. I went straight to the Newlands kennel and picked out two cats, Suzi and Sunny. It didn't take long to acquire three more."

There's no mistaking that Miss Elizabeth is a cat lover from the decor of her home. Her artifact collection of cats and owls is abundant and tastefully displayed. To complete her collection, her granddaughter presented her with a family picture album of the feline members.

Educated in Jamaica since the age of four, Miss Elizabeth didn't return to Cayman till Christmas of 1949. On her return flight home on the seaplane, she was reintroduced to the man she fell in love with and later married.

She worked for a time at Knox College in Spaulding, Jamaica. She and her husband, who worked for Standard Fruit and Shipping Company, lived in Haiti and Honduras for a while then returned to Cayman in 1954 where her husband began a tortoise shell and wood jewelry store call Caymandicrafts.

After her husband's death, her stepdaughter (more of a daughter) built a home within her home in South Sound, to accommodate Miss Elizabeth and her feline family.

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News From Our Region

Caribbeans among thousands rallying for legalisation of undocumented immigrants

Stirring performance: Haitian-born singer, Mr Wyclef Jean.

When Jamaican immigrant Albert, left Jamaica 16 years ago, his daughter was five-years-old. Today, she is 23 and the Bronx resident says he has not laid eyes on her in all those years simply because he has no permanent resident card that will allow him to travel back and forth between the US and his homeland.

Albert, who was too scared to give his last name, is just one of about eight million undocumented immigrants currently living in the United States and who are in desperate need of legalisation of status, according to advocates.

"I have to be here and support this movement," said Albert. "We have to have equal rights and justice for all."

It was the recurring theme of the recent Immigrant Workers Freedom Ride. "Liberty and justice for all," proclaimed many signs while speakers after speaker exclaimed, "Respect for all, despite of immigration status."

Participants chant during calls for amnesty for immigrants.
Close to 100,000 supporters, immigrants, activists, civil, religious and community leaders as well as politicians, turned up at Queens, New York's Flushing Meadows Park to send a message to President George W Bush and the White House and push for amnesty for the undocumented.

Labour leaders, union representatives and political and religious leaders elicited cheers from flag-waving immigrants from the Caribbean, as well as Central, Latin and South America and Africa, as they urged, "Justice, amnesty, liberty."

Jamaican immigrant, Mr Jose Richards, of the Sons & Daughters of Jamaica organisation, was among those on hand for the rally. He saluted the turnout saying: "I believe that anything where people come out in large numbers, the politicians will listen and think. If we keep it up, we will see some changes."
Commenting on the US immigration policies, Mr. Richards added, "It's not just unfair, it's unGodly what this administration is doing."

Haitian immigrant Mr Ruddel Deceus claimed he showed up because he was convinced that immigrants needed to make their voices heard. "We pay taxes too," he said.

Trinidadian immigrant, Ms Gloria Church agreed. But she urged fellow Caribbeans, especially those who were citizens, to take part in the political process.

"Let us get together and work together," said the Brooklyn resident, who disclosed that she knew the struggles fellow immigrants faced when arriving in the US for the first time.

"I came here as a professional and had to do jobs that were beneath me before I got the green card," added Ms Church, now a union member.

Community leader and Trinidadian immigrant, Mr Horace Moancie, urged all nationals of the region, and all immigrants who could legally vote, to register to do so. "We have to fight," he added.

Caribbean advocate, Mr Irwine Clare, said the fight was definitely on. "This is significant because we have finally garnered the interest of the unions in this movement," said the director of the Caribbean Immigrant Services.

"We hope now we can use this to build coalitions to find solutions to the problems of immigrants."
The Trinidadian-born head of New York's Transport Workers Union, Mr Roger Toussaint, said the movement was just the start. "From here, we have the attention we need to push the issue forward and let it. It's not a one-day issue," said the labour leader.

New York Assemblyman, Mr Brian McLaughlin, chairperson of the Ride and head of the Central Labour Council, agreed. "This is just the beginning," he said.

"Some day people can look back on this day and see how we changed the face of America forever," he predicted.

Like Mr. Toussaint, he lauded the support the movement had received from "persuadable white Americans," whom he said felt as sense of obligation.

New York's, Jamaican-American Council member, Ms Yvette Clarke, lauded the event and committed to working to raising awareness of the problems facing immigrants.

Freedom Ride organisers say it is important to challenge the strong anti-immigrant atmosphere that emerged after 11 September, 2001.

Organisers say they want legal status "for hardworking, taxpaying, law-abiding immigrant workers already established in the United States;" as well as labour protections so that all workers, including immigrant workers, have the right to fair treatment on the job; the renewal of democracy by clearing the path towards citizenship, the reuniting of families in a timely fashion and respect of the civil liberties and rights of all immigrants.

Riders came from all across the country including Seattle, Los Angeles, Miami, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Portland, Oregon, San Francisco and of course, New York. More than 200 buses came from Brooklyn.

State legislators and political leaders across the country have endorsed the ride, including the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, the Congressional Black Caucus, the California state legislature and Rep John Lewis (D-Ga.), an original Freedom Rider.

Senator Edward M Kennedy, Congressional Representatives Mike Honda, Hilda L Solis, Luis Gutierrez, Sheila Jackson Lee, Janice Schakowsky, and George Miller have all praised the Immigrant Workers Freedom Riders for their courage and hard work, and pledging support for immigrant rights and reform.
The ride, organisers say, is inspired by the Freedom Riders of the early 1960s civil rights movement. A former civil rights rider, Rev James Lawson, urged immigrants to go back to their churches, unions, work places and neighbourhoods and "mobilise."

Rev Lawson, who marched with the late civil rights leader, Dr Martin Luther King, Jr, from whom the immigrant riders draw their inspiration, said: "No human being is illegal in the sight of God. That's what we must tell George Bush."

Hip-hop artist, Haitian-born Mr Wyclef Jean, topped after the event with a stirring performance in which he sang in English, Spanish, French and Creole. Freestyling between his renditions of Bob Marley's, "No Woman, No Cry", and "Redemption Song", the former Fugees star and hip-hop singer said, "No discrimination! George Bush is going to get the message."

He also urged all gathered to say a prayer for all the refugees around the world, before jumping out into the crowd for his usual high energy performance that sent rally-goers screaming and dancing at once.
At a press conference earlier in the day, Mr Jean stressed that there was a need to use the hip-hop genre to create more awareness on the issue.

"We have to push for more attention," he said.

Also performing at the rally was Trinidadian-born Calypsonian, The Mighty Sparrow.

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Castro: Cuba's education is the finest in the world

Education boast: President Fidel Castro

Cuban President Fidel Castro, called Cuba's education system "first in the world" and said Cuba's name would go down in history for its contributions in education, culture and health during one of the most difficult periods mankind had known.

The President made the comments in a newspaper column published by The New York Daily News. The column was originally slated to run in the Spanish-language newspaper, El Diario-La Prensa, but was canned by the owners after some staffers objected to the piece, calling it propaganda for Cuba's Communist government.

The newspaper's editor resigned in protest. The Daily News reportedly obtained a copy of the column and translated it from Spanish to English.

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Former NY mayor to help Trinidad in crime fight

Global sheriff: Rudy Giuliani

New York's former Mayor, Mr. Rudy Guiliani, has turned into a global sheriff. Mr Guiliani, according to the Trinidad Express, may be in Trinidad for a three- to six-month period to consult with local law enforcement agencies on adopting new methods of crime-fighting there.

In a country where kidnappings has soared, it is expected that the former mayor may take the COMSTAT plan to the twin-island republic if his firm is hired. COMSTAT refers to a system of electronic computer mapping of weekly crime statistics within precincts and larger police commands.

Mr. Giuliani will be in Trinidad next month as a guest speaker of CLICO's Distinguished Lecture Series programme.

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Free Trade Area talks in Trinidad end in impasse US and Brazil face off

First it was the World Trade Organization's Summit in Cancun that ended in impasse. Now it's the Free Trade Area of the Americas conference, which concluded over the weekend in Trinidad.

Reuters quoted Caribbean Community Chief Negotiator, Mr Richard Bernal, as saying no decision was taken at the Trinidad meeting on the scope and schedule of the FTAA talks.
"I don't think we should sacrifice a good agreement for the sake of adherence to any particular date," he said.

The impasse came after the United States and Brazil faced off over the scope of negotiations to create the world's largest free trade area by 1 January, 2005.

Brazil has argued for a more focused accord while the United States wants a more ambitious and wide-ranging pact, according to Reuters.

The United States is pushing for a single comprehensive agreement that would cut tariffs on manufactured and agricultural goods while strengthening rules governing services trade, investment, intellectual property protection and government procurement.

The two are hoping they reach a compromise in Miami next month.

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Community Calendar

Community Calendar

Friday, 10 October
National Drug Council Drug Awareness Month 'Movie Nite' for youth and young adults at the Aston Rutty Centre from 6 to 10 pm.

24 and 25 October
A seminar for 'The Seven Laws of the Learner' will be held Friday, 24 October at John A. Cumber School Hall, from 7 to 9:30 pm and Saturday 25October from 9 am to 3:30 pm.

September through October
Updated Events Calendar Available from Government Information Services (GIS). Calendar may be downloaded from the 'Local Issues' section of government website: www.gov.ky, or contact GIS by telephone, 949-8092, or email, gis@gov.ky to obtain a copy.

Every Thursday
The Women's Health Centre holding a breastfeeding clinic every Thursday from 12:30 to 2 pm. The first Clinic was held 2 October at the Women's Health Centre, in the Cayman Islands Hospital. The service is free and no appointments necessary.

Every Friday
The Kids 4 Christ youth programme has recommenced at the Church of God Chapel Family life Centre on Walkers Road. Kids 4 Christ is for children 4-12 years old. It meets every Friday and runs from 6:30 8 pm and is free of charge. The children learn Bible lessons, create crafts and play games. For more information, please call 949-9393.

Lifeline Confidential Counselling Service
Any adult who needs to discuss problems can call 949-6969. The help line is open from Monday to Friday, 7-10 pm, and is organised by the NCVO.

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Sports

Fun Run Series goes right down to the wire

Martin Davies' (right) fifth-place finish in last Saturday's final race of the Fidelity Fun Run Series earned him enough points to finish tied for first place in the overall standings. Right behind Martin in the photo is Joe Michalaski.

Other overall Fidelity Fun Run Series leaders included (l-r) Dave Walker, who finished third, Glen Holding, who finished tied for first, Emily Davis, the women's overall winner, and Anne Scaife, who finished second.

The Fidelity Fun Run Series 2003 wrapped up on Saturday and some dramatic results turned up when the final placings were tabulated.
Glen Holding's two wins in two appearances were good enough to force a first-place tie in the men's overall standings with Martin Davies, whose three consistent finishes paid off with an equal share of honours. Dave Walker's win and runner-up efforts in two tries earned him the third slot in the overall results.
It was a Davies day all around, as Emily completed a string of three straight victories in the women's division, while Anne Scaife and Monique Melis gained the second and third overall spots for the ladies.
A number of close
contests in age-group
divisions came down to the wire, as final race day
finish positions determined
several trophy awards.
Newlyweds Danielle and Andrew Mason of Hagerstown, Maryland, completed their honeymoon vacation with participation in the Fidelity Finale just prior to their departure for the airport and home.
These experienced distance runners took home good memories of their island jaunt as Danielle was third overall for the ladies on this date in a time of 14:00 minutes flat, while Andrew took fourth on the men's side in 11:53. (This is not the Andrew Mason currently resident in Cayman who is training for the New York Marathon next month.)
A spokesperson for Fidelity Group of Companies said: "We are extremely pleased with the response to this activity and we are enthusiastic about expanding the event in future years. We wish to commend the Phoenix
Athletic Club for its organisation of the series, and to thank all the
volunteers, and participants, and also the media
for the coverage which
was provided."

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Cayman Islands Cricket

A discussion on the topic, "Is it possible for the Cayman Islands to be a venue in the World Cup 2007 Tournament?" will take place at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex tomorrow (Thursday) at 7 pm. All association members, club representatives, players and other interested people are invited to express their views and make recommendations. For more information contact 916 5862.

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Sports Calendar Events

Monday, 13 October
Hash House Harriers run/social. 393C Prospect Drive, Prospect at 5:30 pm.

Saturday, 18 October
Cayman Islands Athletic Association will be holding the Flowers Co-operate Relay at JGHS, Walkers Road.

Saturday, 18 October
Kiwanis Club 23rd Annual Bike-a-Thon, 20-mile bicycle ride from the East End Blow Holes to Smith Cove. Bicycles to be dropped off at the trailer situated at the downtown driver's licensing building on Friday, 17 October, 4-6 pm, prior to being transported to Blow Holes at 6 am on Saturday. For further information, telephone Roger, 949-7666 or Arie, 946 5656.

Monday, 20 October
Hash House Harriers run, Cayman National Bank, Elgin Ave at 5:30 pm.

Saturday, 25 October
Beacon Realty International 5K Sea Swim. Race starts at Holiday Inn at 8 am. Participants must pre-register on Monday, 20 October at Lion Pool or Holiday Inn on the 24 October, between 7:00 and
8:30 pm. For more information, email relaxo@candw.ky or mcfark@candw.ky.

Monday, 27 October
Hash House Harriers run at Silver Thatch Dr, off Legacy Dr, Tropical Gardens at 5:30 pm

Every Monday
The Cayman Islands duplicate Bridge Club meets every Monday night at 7:15 pm.
Visitors are welcome. For more information, call Audrey at 949-2371.

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