Highlights
from the Print Newspaper edition - Issue
No. 518
Updated as of | Monday,
27 October 2003 |
4:00PM
Up Front
News
Editorial
Letter to the Editor
News about Cayman in the Foreign Press
Pet Corner
News From Our Region
Community Calendar
Sports
Sports Calendar Events
With the 31 October deadline fast approaching for the public to voice its opinions before the draft law is debated in the House...
Immigration Bill Push On
The Government Information Services (GIS) has commenced an intensive information campaign to assist the public in understanding the elements of the new draft Immigration Law.
The public will have one last change to weigh in on the proposal before it goes to debate in the Legislative Assembly next month, but those with suggestions or protests will have to be quick, for the deadline for input is this coming Friday.
GIS placed an information supplement about
the draft Bill in both daily newspapers last weekend, and also
circulated the publication to district post offices and key government
departments and agencies. They also produced a CD about the proposed
law for distribution to the media and to all Cayman Islands Gazette
subscribers.
The Immigration Bill, which has been in the works since 1997 when
research was commenced, seeks to address the many immigration
issues now facing the Cayman Islands.
One of the key issues addressed by the proposed
bill deals with term limits for work permit holders.
With no term limits currently in place, reportedly over 6,500
non-Caymanian residents have been allowed to stay on the Island
for over 10 years, qualifying them for Caymanian Status. Human
rights standards have pressured the Government to resolve the
situation with these long-term residents.
The new Bill will limit the number of non-Caymanian who can remain in the Islands long enough to qualify for citizenship. Most people on work permits under the draft bill will only be allowed to live in Cayman for seven years before the must leave.
There are, however, a number of exceptions to that seven-year rule for workers considered 'exempted employees.' This classification could be made to persons who are: experts in their field; professional employees who have specialised skills that cannot be easily found within or outside the Island; persons whose business contacts are important to the continued success of the Island; persons directly involved in training Caymanians and developing their skills in the field in which he/she is employed or practices; such other persons as are considered by the Immigration Board to have special reason to remain based on the circumstances of a particular case; and persons whose absence would cause serious hardships to their employers or to Caymanians.
Once a person on a work permit must leave, however, they would not have to stay away forever. "There is a break in stay of two years after which an applicant can return," said Sherri Bodden, Chairman of the Immigration Review Team (IRT), "We believe that this period would be sufficient to break the legal and habitual residence of the worker." Mrs Bodden also indicated that the law does not anticipate that a returning former resident would be treated any differently with regard to work permit granting process than any other applicant.
The draft Immigration Law envisions the current Immigration Board falling away and being replaced with three boards: one to deal with applications for Permanent Residence and Caymanian Status; one to deal with general work permits; and one to deal with Business Staffing Plans.
With the new Law, Business Staffing Plans would be required of all companies employing 15 or more staff members on work permits; those with less may file a plan, but it would not be mandatory. The Business Staffing Plans would allow companies to identify all posts that are vital to the business, which could then be designated as 'exempted positions' for the period of the plan, meaning that these work permit holders would not be subject to the seven-year term limit.
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Cayman
National Celebrates Pirates Week
Cayman National customers can win up to $2,500 in the bank's Treasure Chest draw promotion going on now. Here visiting pirates and CNB employees enjoy the spirit of Pirates Week.
Cayman National Bank (CNB) is celebrating Pirates Week 2003 with a Treasure Chest prize draw. From 27 October to 5 December, bank customers using self-service banking which includes using debit cards, ATMs and telephone and internet banking they will be automatically entered into a weekly prize draw. Prizes include a weekly cash price of CI$250, Cayman Airways tickets, a DVD player, a television, and a grand prize of CI$2,500.
Ralph Lewis, SVP Service Delivery said, "October 2003 marks the one year anniversary for our self service banking products and what better way to celebrate than through Pirates Week."
"Supporting community initiatives like Pirates Week, the Quincentennial Celebrations and others is our way to give back to a community that has served us well for nearly 30 years," Mr Lewis said.
In addition to rewarding its customers with prizes for using alternative banking channels, CNB will also be demonstrating their Pirates Week spirit by constructing special in-branch displays and hosting the Seattle Seafarer Pirates at their branches on Friday.
To learn more about Cayman National Bank's Treasure Chest Draw, visit any of the bank's five branches or log onto www.caymannational.com.
Island Air Ltd has responded to the recent press statement by Richard Smith, Director of Civil Aviation (CAA) with a press statement of their own (see page two inside for the entire statement).
The CAA and Island Air have been at odds The over the non-payment of $1.1 million worth of back landing fees. Island Air says a previous Government exempted them from the fees, while the CAA denies this. The matter is now in court.
In the meantime, in a letter dated 1 October, 2003, the CAA demanded Island Air start paying their landing fees on a daily basis. Subsequently to that letter, Island Air's Marcus Cumber wrote a letter to the Sister Island's Tourism Board, and copied it to the media, stating that the airline would have to raise its prices in order to accommodate paying the landing fees going forward.
The CAA than released its
press statement, stating, among other things, that Mr Tom Jefferson,
the Minister who Island Air says gave them the landing fee exemption,
had sworn an affidavit denying any such a verbal agreement.
Island Air was then forced to reverse the recent rate increase
because it did not have permission to do so from the Air Transport
Licencing Authority (ATLA).
The Island Air response states that Mervyn Cumber, Managing Director of Island Air, did in fact seek written confirmation of the verbal agreement from Ministers in previous Cayman Islands Governments. He says he has written numerous letters stating that such an agreement had been entered into, an assertion that remained uncontradicted over many years.
"If we hadn't had those assurances, I would have stopped the service unless I got a major increase in airfare," says Mr Cumber, who took over the airline in Decemeber, 1993 when it was financial strapped.
Island Air is now preparing an application to properly request ATLA permission to raise its airfare. "We're not raising the fares to make more profit," said Mr Cumber, "We just want to cover our additional costs."
Island Air scheduled air services will continue to and from the Sister Islands until the result of the application to the Air Transport Licensing Authority and the pending Court proceedings is known.
One Person, One Vote The Way To Go Forward
Mr Leonard Ebanks
Mr Leonard Ebanks, President of Fidelity Bank, expressed his views on the single member election constituencies last week at a public meeting organised by the People's Progressive Movement (PPM) at the West Bay Town Hall.
Mr. Ebanks was actively involved in the Constitutional Review Process that started in May 2001 and was completed in March 2002. During the review process, the Review Team held extensive consultation meetings throughout the Cayman Islands. "This had overwhelming support from the people of the Cayman Islands," Mr Ebanks said in his speech.
The outcome of the Review Process found the majority of electors of this country supported the findings made in the review and, in particular, there was no disagreement on two sections of the review, The Bill of Rights and single member constituencies.
In December 2002 the concept of changing to single member constituencies and electing 17 elected members of the Legislative Assembly was agreed by both the UDP and PPM and expressed to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London.
The Electoral Boundaries Commission was then established to draw up a report on proposed constituency boundaries. This report was submitted to the Governor, tabled in the Cayman Islands Parliament and is now a public document.
The Constitutional Review Process report supports the creation of 17 single member constituencies and by extension, the principle of one person, one vote with equal value. This amendment to the constitution has not yet been debated in the House.
Mr Ebanks said, "The principle of one man one vote with equal value in fair and transparent elections is the cornerstone of democracy. The same for all, rich or poor, sick or healthy, regardless of ethnic background, in other words equality."
Currently, voters in West Bay and George Town can cast four votes for candidates for the MLA; in Bodden Town, each person has three votes, in our sister Islands they have two votes each, but in North Side and East End each person has one vote.
"The Government of the day are now not prepared to support this concept, " Mr Ebanks said, "I find it difficult to believe that this position has changed since the review was conducted."
The one man, one vote system would in effect lead to greater accountability by the politicians, voters would be able to see their representative was performing their duties and attending to their constituency and this system would enable the voter to better decide on how to use their one vote.
Mr Ebanks said, "The most important aspect of this exercise and what I am trying to achieve is hopefully to educate the public on the virtues of single member constituencies. The main virtue of single member constituencies is accountability, by the representative to the elector. The principal, one man one vote, is used by all progressive societies."
The Constitution Modernisation Review began in the Cayman Islands after the UK Government issued the White Paper 'Partners for Change'.
Local company donates $75,000 to scholarship fund
(left to right) Seamus Tivnan, Vice Chairman IMAC, Tom Clark, Chairman Scholarship Fund and Tim Godber, Director, Deutsche Bank (Cayman) Limited
On dissolution of George Town Re, Ltd, a Cayman Islands exempt company, the trustees, Deutsche Bank Charitable Trust, have donated US$75,000 to the scholarship fund of The Insurance Managers Association of Cayman (IMAC).
George Town Re, Ltd was a special purpose vehicle with a Class B restricted insurance licence. It was owned by a number of major institutional investors and was set up by one of the world's largest reinsurance companies to provide them with reinsurance protection on their worldwide catastrophe risks including hurricanes.
The Trustees of the Deutsche Bank Charitable Trust were anxious to sponsor a scholarship on island to continue to assist with education of young Caymanians. Given the origins of the funds and the fact that the insurance managers manage a scholarship fund, the donation to the organisation was an obvious and perfect choice.
IMAC's Educational Scholarship Trust Fund was formed in 1994 to assist with the post high school education of young Caymanians. Contributions are regularly received from the individual insurance management firms and the captive insurance companies themselves.
Laveda Burton was recently awarded a full scholarship from the The Educational Scholarship Trust Fund. Laveda is attending Richmond College in the UK to study International Business. Previous recipients of a scholarship from the Fund include Mesha Scott, Dorothy Scott, Bradley Erskine, Tuda Murphy and Jamil Solomon. Tiffany Anderson, has just completed a BA (Hons.) in Accounting and Finance at South Bank University in London and is now studying to become a Certified Accountant.
The total of US$75,000 will cover recipients
of this scholarship over the next three years. Deutsche Bank is
committed to the future of young Caymanians, and through scholarships
like this, believe that their future will be brighter.
Press
statement on behalf of Island Air Ltd
The following is the unedited press statement released by Island Air in response to the Cayman Islands Civil Aviation Authority's recent statement
Island Air Ltd, refers to the recent press statement of the Director of Civil Aviation, Mr Richard Smith, stating that among other matters that Mr Tom Jefferson has denied in an affidavit that their has been a verbal agreement between Island Air and Mr Jefferson exempting Island Air from paying landing and parking fees.
It should be stated for clarification that in fact Mr Mervyn Cumber on behalf of Island Air sought written confirmation of the verbal agreement from Ministers in previous Cayman Islands Governments, writing many letters over many years and that Mr Cumber's assertions that such an agreement has been entered into on behalf of the Civil Aviation Authority have gone uncontradicted over many years.
Island Air is now in the process of preparing a renewed application to the Air Transport Licensing Authority to raise its airfares to provide for the payment of landing and parking fees and will await the outcome of that application.
In the meantime, Island Air will be continuing to provide scheduled air services to and from the Sister Islands for the benefit of the travelling public. Depending on the outcome of the application to the Air Transport Licensing Authority and the pending Court proceedings, Island Air hopes in future to maintain their service which they have long provided to both residents and visitors, as well as successive Governments and their employees.
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Tea at the Governor's
for senior citizens
Catherine Chesnut
Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Council of Cayman, Catherine Chesnut, joined the Expert Group on Demand Reduction, a part of the Executive Secretariat of the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (CICAD), in Buenos Aires, Argentina, for a three-day session of the group.
The Expert Group on Demand Reduction, met under the Chairmanship of Dr Wilbur R Grimson, Secretary of Programming and Co-ordination for the Prevention of Drug Dependence and the Control of Drug Trafficking (SEDRONAR) of Argentina, to review a proposal on the organisation of a comprehensive national drug treatment system that provides a continuum of care that is integrated into the national health care system.
Mrs Chesnut said, "for the NDC to have representation with the Expert Group and participate in this highly technical session is a significant move for the Council and its objective of stopping the problem of substance abuse and misuse."
Other agenda items for the 22-24 October session included treatment for drug-abusing prisoners, alternatives to sentencing for minor drug offences, drug abuse prevention programmes in the community and schools and national observatories on drugs.
Call for new Deputy Governor to head Civil Service
According to a consultation document issued by the Government, entitled An Overview of the New Personnel Management System, a new position of Deputy Governor should be created in the Cayman Islands. The Deputy Governor would effectively become the head of the Civil Service. This booklet, which was recently distributed to Civil Service personnel, also contained an explanation of the recent draft Public Service Bill.
This new Deputy Governor position would be part of the Government's implementation of a programme of public management reform, the first stage of which was the Public Management and Finance Law 2001 and the second stage which will be personnel reform measures applying from 2005.
The personnel reforms will also include the creation of Deputy Governor's Office, which will exist to support the work of the Deputy Governor.
Responsibilities of the Deputy Governor would include Chief Officer performance agreements and assessments, overseeing Civil Service human resource practices and salary determination. The responsibilities would also include protecting civil servants from inappropriate political pressure.
That is defined in the draft Bill as, "Any attempt directly or indirectly by an official member or minister to influence a personnel or other input related decision of a Chief Officer, or a person with delegated authority from a chief officer from what it would have been had the influence not been applied."
The consultation document continues, "If the Deputy Governor is of the opinion that inappropriate political pressure is being exerted by an Official Member or Minister, the draft Bill requires the Deputy Governor to advise the Chief Minister of his or her concerns and request that the Chief Minister discuss the matter with the Official Member or Minister concerned."
The Deputy Governor would be given "statutory independence " in undertaking these functions, stating, "The Deputy Governor is required to act independently and not be subject to direction by any person, and is accountable solely to the Governor for the exercise of these functions."
A call for Cayman Scholar Award applications
Applications are now being
accepted for the 2003 Cayman Scholar Award. The deadline is Monday,
10 November.
Recent Caymanian high school leavers, with two years in the A-level
or associate degree programmes, are eligible to apply for this
prestigious scholarship. The Education Council will award the
successful applicant a maximum of CI$25,000 a year, for up to
five years of study abroad.
Applicants must be preparing to enter or already enrolled in universities in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada or the West Indies. Students planning to enter American institutions must be accepted by a university or college ranked at least "highly competitive" by the current Barron's Profile of American Colleges.
The Education Council selects scholarship recipients based on a points system that is calculated according to grades received in the following exams: the Caribbean Examinations Council CXC; General Certificate of Secondary Education; Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT); A Levels' International Baccalaureate; or other relevant public examinations. Grades received through the associate degree are also included in the points system.
Cayman Islands Community College graduates should have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.5 to be considered during the selection process.
The Cayman Scholar Award was introduced in 1995 to recognise academic excellence among the Islands' youth. All recipients are required to work in the Cayman Islands for at least five years following their courses of study.
Application forms are available from the office of the Education Council Secretariat on 945-3114 or may be collected from the Employment Services Centre, Paddington Place, off Godfrey Nixon Way.
New security unit for Civil Aviation Authority
Permanent Secretary for
the Ministry for Health Services, AgricReigning Extempo Monarch,
Leslie Ann Bristow, from Trinidad and Tobago
The Cayman National Cultural Foundation (CNCF) will open its annual Cayman Islands International Storytelling Festival on Saturday, 8 November with a historic Dusk To Dawn Storytelling Campout at the Kaibo Public Beach in North Side.
Scheduled to open with a sundown invocation or prayer at 6 pm, it will feature local stage icons and members of the public who wish to tell stories through the night in a casual campout setting.
Swankee, fish-tea, coffee and other light refreshments will be available throughout the night to keep the stories rolling around a traditional Caymanian campfire.
Organised annually by the CNCF, GIMISTORY is free to the public thanks to funding from the Ministry of Education, Human Resources and Culture. Contributions have been received from a number of organisations from the toursim industry.
Caymanian storyteller, Alan Ebanks
This year restaurants opening their doors to host visiting tellers include Outback Steakhouse, Welly's Cool Spot, Subway, Champion House, Singh's Roti Shop, Kentucky Fried Chicken and Wendy's.
GIMISTORY plays on the traditional use of intimate outdoor telling places such as yards and beaches, which define the Caymanian storytelling aesthetic the elders knew so well. The smell of fish and fritters frying on cabooses, intensifies the appeal and creates a compulsion for listening in a relaxed atmosphere.
According to CNCF Artistic Director Henry Muttoo, "GIMISTORY is becoming an important component in the tourism product. It's a matchless opportunity for visitors to come together with residents and share an evening of culture and camaraderie."
Headlining the festival will be popular Caymanian tellers, Nasaria Suckoo-Chollette, Alan Ebanks and the humorous duo of "Aunt Sookie and Zekiel," joined by a number of overseas artists.
Also scheduled to appear are Paul-Keens Douglas, Samantha Pierre, David Bereaux and Friends, Phillip "Blacksage" Murray, Leslie Ann Bristow and Jerry Dopson from Trinidad; Amina Blackwood-Meeks from Jamaica; Edgar Ortiz from Costa Rica, Ken Corsbie and Alex Neptune from Guyana, and Linda Fang from the United States.
Details of other venues may be obtained from Michele Mogg at 949-5477, Email: cayfest@candw.ky.
Warning over the dangers of fireworks
George Town Primary School students on election day
Pupils at George Town Primary School have been getting a practical lesson in democracy by holding elections for prefects.
Students and electoral candidates
were guided through the democratic voting process the day before.
Pictures of all the candidates were posted on the bulletin boards
around the hall. Below the pictures were captions displaying students'
names and their intention statements. Students were given ballots
by teachers and carefully made their selections, taking time to
view all candidates.
Finally, students made their way to the voting boxes holding their ballots close. "That was fun," commented a Year 5 student. Bright smiles accompanied each voter as they made a confident exit from the hall.
Physiotherapists to benefit from course in advanced techniques
A three-day course aimed at improving the skills of local physiotherapists by introducing new and advanced techniques in patient care is being offered by the Cayman Islands Hospital to all physiotherapists on the island.
The course will commence on Sunday, 2 November with an all-day session starting at 9 am. Classes for Monday and Tuesday will both begin at 12:30 pm. The sessions will be held in the physiotherapy unit of the Cayman Islands Hospital.
Participants can register by completing the registration form and paying the course fee of CI$250. For more information about registration, telephone 244-2730. The deadline for registration is Monday, 27 October.
New security unit for Civil Aviation Authority
Permanent Secretary for the Ministry for Health Services, Agriculture, Aviation and District Administration, Andrea Bryan and Assistant Secretary Satina DaCosta toured the new HBS facilities at ORIA. The CAA Chairman, Harding Watler, Director of Civil Aviation, Richard Smith, Head of Airport Operations and Kerith McCoy accompanied them. The Group was given a tour of the HBS facilities and the processes explained by Charles Coutts, the trainer who has been seconded to the CAA for the first three months of operations.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has added a new unit to its staff to manage the 100 percent Hold Baggage Screening (HBS) introduced in July, and x-ray screening which was implemented in August.
The new HBS unit consists of 17 screeners and three supervisors. A certified trainer from the UK Department of Transport, Garry Mitchell, trained the new staff. The two-week training course included classroom theory and practical on-the-job training. Additionally, supervision of the unit has been further enhanced by the presence of an experienced supervisor from the Falkland Islands Department of Civil Aviation, who has been seconded to assist the CAA during the first three months of operation.
The x-ray equipment used at the Owen Roberts International Airport is specialised and features built-in training mechanisms that continuously train and test the operators through a process referred to as Threat Image Projection (TIP). This will ensure that operators maintain a high level of proficiency and confidence in themselves and the system.
Director of Civil Aviation, Richard Smith acknowledges that, "the processes employed to enhance aviation security and meet current requirements are often inconvenient to the travelling public, however, the safety and security of passengers comes first and the CAA will continue to make the experience as pleasant as possible"
The Honourable Gilbert Mclean, Minister responsible for Health Services, Agriculture, Aviation and Works added that, "the implementation of the electronic HBS system is another example of CAA's ongoing operational development, which will ensure that the Cayman Islands continues to maintain the highest standards of aviation security, which is ultimately for the good of all."
Ready for record trade show next year
Fire safety officer Doorly McLaughlin (left) and Graham Rankine during a site inspection of the Pirates Week fireworks display.
Seasonal festivities always seem to follow swiftly on the heels of Pirates Week, and this has prompted a timely remind the public of the dangers associated with fireworks.
Every year during Pirates Week, key attractions are the glorious fireworks displays, held on opening night, at each district day and as part of the final night of festivities on 1 November.
For these types of large fireworks displays in public places, a permit must be obtained from the department; an inspection and approval process must be carried out through the Fire Services Department prior to the issuance of the permit.
Doorly McLaughlin, divisional officer in charge of fire prevention, says the process is necessary "because you never know what can go wrong if you just do it on your own and don't follow the requirements." Also, people who don't comply can be charged with contravening the Fire Code and fined up to CI$6000 as it is illegal to organise large fireworks displays without proper approval.
The Accident and Emergency Unit at George Town Hospital also usually notices a seasonal influx of injuries related to improper use of fireworks, especially among children. Some injuries can have long-term effects such as the loss of an eye, permanent damage to limbs and in extreme cases, severe injury may even lead to death.
Fire Services is reminding the public that although there is no approval process for small fireworks which are easily purchased during the holiday season, there is still a need for everyone to be aware of the dangers of fireworks.
For more information on fire safety and prevention contact Doorly McLaughlin at 949-2276 or 949-0077.
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Ready for record trade
show next year
There will be more road closures this week as part of the 27th Annual Pirates Week Festival.
The closures will be in effect over this period to help the various functions including the fireworks display, parade and street dances. On 1 November the downtown area of central George Town will be closed to traffic.
Police Officers will be in attendance at various junctions and along the parade route to assist with traffic control and direction.
The Royal Cayman Islands Police are advising those who are not attending the festivities to avoid the area, use alternative routes and allow additional time for their journey.
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Ready for record trade
show next year
The Cayman Islands Tourism Association (CITA) launched its website on Wednesday, 22 October. The site is www.cita.ky.
The official website of the Cayman Islands Tourism Association (CITA) will serve as an interactive informational tool and business resource for CITA members and the public.
The site includes information on industry statistics, and links to the tourism industry organisations. It features complete and comprehensive information about the CITA and its role in the Cayman Islands tourism industry.
Personals
Rose the Cat
Hi there, I'm Rose. I'm a single tabby with a white breast. When I say single, I mean I'm two years old and ready to settle down with a family. My babies are all gone now, so I'm suffering from 'empty nest syndrome'.
I had a home at one time, but I don't understand why my family brought me here. It's a nice place but I'm really looking for someone's lap to warm up.
It's been two long months since my family left me here and it seems there's lots of other friends of mine that have the same story. Why don't you come down to the shelter and see if I'm the girl of your dreams. I really think I'm purrrrfect for you.
Humour
There are countless humorous picutres such as this which are the
prized possession of pet owners almost every.
If you would like to share your pet fun pictures with us e-mail them to news@caymannetnews.com.
Fireworks and pets do not mix!
Fireworks and Pirate's Week
go together. Fireworks and pet, particularly dogs, do not.
Many pets are terrified of loud noises that fireworks make. Their
natural response is to avoid the situation by fleeing. Housebound
pets should be kept in a quiet room.
Here are some tips:
Uniting Cayman's Festivals
From a somewhat rough and
ready beginning to the whole concept of Pirates' Week, the current
staff of the Pirates' Week office, headed up by the versatile
and committed Dave Martins, are to be congratulated for elevating
the event to the only national festival in the Caribbean, indeed
the world, with such a diverse range of quality events.
Over the past five years, we have seen a shift to the downtown
location by the harbour, and an growth of the street parade, by
eliminating themes and letting entrants choose their subject.
The music offered has been similarly expanded by allowing local groups to play music of their choice so that the stages now offer soca, reggae, country, R&B, rock, gospel, and other choices of musical that reflect Cayman's international culture.
In addition, there is now a separate "food court" area on Shedden Road, between the bandstands on Cardinall Avenue and the South Terminal.
With the development of different and diverse activities, the emphasis is no longer on partying for its own sake, and there is now even a "Teen Only" night, at a separate location, with no liquor, and current pop music.
Specifically, the range of events now includes six heritage days, eight street dances, the pirates' landing, fireworks, a song contest, a street parade, two swim events, two golf events, two road races, an art show, and a Children' Fun Fair Day.
The events and the festival
itself are now promoted globally by means of a website, videos
and an overseas magazine. At a time when the global perception
of the Cayman Islands seems very often to be more in keeping with
the pirates of old, this can be an important and useful tool to
enhance our reputation rather than diminishing it.
In short, the current set-up seems to represent an ideal marriage
of Government funding and the entrepreneurial approach.
The Pirates' Week Committee enjoys an unblemished safety record and a reputation for punctuality with the various presentations fireworks, song contests, street parades as well as other activities, and a strict no-alcohol edict on the floats.
This effective and highly professional approach has resulted in increased corporate support coming to the Festival from scores of businesses, large and small, to fund the various events. In particular, the downtown show on the first weekend, which is free to the public, has been estimated to cost approximately $60,000.
The Pirates Weed Festival needs the continued support of both public and private sectors, as well as focused advertising overseas to spread the word. Perhaps the cruise lines should be made aware of this "free Caribbean show" that their passengers can take in by staying until 10pm or 11pm on Friday night. This would add a few thousand more patrons at a stroke.
There have been suggestions in the past that Government could save money by combining the organisation of several festivals such as Batabano, Cayfest, Gimmi Story and other presentations under one roof. Such a move would have the effect of giving the various events some continuity in management and promotion style, and would also save money for costs like staff overhead and advertising, which could be attained at better contracted bulk rates.
Judging from their ong track record, including that evidenced by the creativity of the colour added with the flags which adorn the harbour front downtown, the Pirates' Week Office could be the perfect place to coordinate, develop and manage the present and future Festivals of Cayman under one roof.
What kind of example is the Assembly setting?
Dear Sir,
Thank you for allowing me space and opportunity to voice my opinion on something that concerns me and other members of the community greatly. Namely, the ridiculous and deplorable behaviour of some members of the Government in the Legislative Assembly (LA).
Being a very concerned Caymanian, I try to listen to what is happening in the LA when it is in session. I am often appalled at the manner in which these elected officials conduct themselves whilst in the LA. I listen to the laughter, scoffing and talking while one member is on the floor addressing the Chair.
I listen to some members of the Government and it is obvious that their behaviour is not in good keeping with what we would be expected of elected representatives. It is often the case, that they are making comments in the background as the Opposition tries to put forward their contribution to the house. I am shocked and disappointed at such behaviour at a time when the young men and women in this country are so desperately searching for good examples of role models in our community.
Many of our young men and boys have serious behavioral and attitude problems and need examples from persons that are in leadership positions. Imagine if we are not able to point to our government officials as examples of how to conduct ourselves. As a matter of fact, one of the key components of leadership is the ability to set a positive example for others to follow. It is their responsibility, as individuals who have accepted and sought out a leadership role to set the best example possible. Sadly, the example set by these persons is what will trickle down into other aspects of the community.
We can see examples of this every day if we merely take the time to look around us. Children have no respect for their peers, parents or teachers. Is it no wonder that we continually see degeneration in the moral fibre of our society?
In the courtrooms, classrooms and homes we see children scoffing, laughing and disrespecting other people. We know that "action speaks louder than words" and our young people will only mimic this type of behaviour as being appropriate and acceptable. The message that our young people are being taught is that they can belittle, ridicule and have no respect for people who may disagree with them or have an opposing view. They are being taught that respect has no place in our society and that their actions have no immediate consequences.
I'm sure they feel if our leaders can laugh and scoff, and be disruptive while one person is speaking why should they not be to have the same conduct in school and society if they so wish? Elected officials must be aware that we did not put them in these positions because we wanted to impose a greater responsibility on them. Instead, they have chosen to run for public office and put themselves out there as individuals who should be able to garner respect. Some of them have campaigned on this very issue and yet we see a disparity between what they say and what they do.
I beg Mr McKeeva Bush (as the Leader of the Government) to set a better example for the rest of the men to follow. It seems the rest of the UDP feel bad behaviour is going unnoticed, accepted and tolerated by the Public. Many of them seem to be saying, "Since we can't beat him, let's join him". How sad that the educated, intelligent listening public have to listen to such nonsense, rhetoric and scoffing while members of the Opposition are trying to address the chair and make their contribution to the various debates/motions.
As a young woman I had so much respect for Mrs Julianna O'Connor-Conolloy; but I was shocked, stunned and disappointed at the kind of behaviour and lack of order she allowed on the floor of the house in her position as Speaker of the House. I listened repeatedly to the lack of control, respect and order that is exercised in the LA. This appeared to have become the norm and not the exception.
Mr Linford Pierson, as the newly-appointed Speaker of the House, I would implore you not to allow this type of behaviour to continue. I encourage you not to allow partly bias to interfere with your role as Speaker of the House; but instead bring back the level of professionalism that we, the public, so long to see again. The Honourable House needs a new sense of dignity and honor that we are hopeful you will have the ability to bring to it.
It is now possible for you to set yourself aside and set a good example by leading the House in a manner that we can all be proud of. Please don't allow the Leader of Government Business or nay other member of the Government to set a bad example for the rest of the public.
Let may say once again; that the young people of these Islands desperately need good men to look up to. They need men who have integrity, honor and respect even for other people who may oppose or disagree with their views.
Once again, Mr. Pierson, I trust you will
bring some much needed decorum to the Legislative Assembly in
your new position as our young people are seeking examples to
be proud of!!
Concerned Caymanian,
J Ebanks
I
don't like it when people paint the wrong image
Dear Sir,
Dear Sir
I refuse to enter into a dialogue with anyone via the media. However, in response to Mr Chris Wight's letter. I wish to state that I am not a member of any party.
I am simply an individual who gives "wrong when wrong is due", and "right when right is due," that goes for my relatives as well. If he has a problem with that, then "Tough luck."
I simply dislike when individuals who try to paint a wrong image of my country, knowing that could cause a worldwide negative affect which would be very detrimental especially in this economic showdown era.
I fail to believe that if I was to change the sentence in my letter concerned, into a statement, instead of the question that I posed that Chris feels he would be successful in a court law, should he issue me a writ pertaining to the statement.
This I know is just a "scare tactic". Remember, I called no names in my letter.
I beseech one and all to give credit when credit is due." No-one can say that what any Government does is faultless. They are only human beings. In 2004, we could be "jumping from the frying pan into the fire," (we already know the "devil" that we have now).
Dictatorship and the "national lottery" issue, did not Government listen to the people and "scrap" the matter? Yes, the granting of Caymanian Status could have been handed in a more transparent manner.
However, there are so many immigrants have, whose parents/ grandparents "navel strings" are buried in our soil, yet the "Immigration Board" has refused to grant those immigrants status.
So therefore, I presume that Cabinet realised that there are thousand of deserving immigrants being on these Islands, who would never be granted Caymanian Status or Permit Residency through the Immigration Board, therefore, they (Cabinet) had to "step in," before the situation got any worse.
This is my opinion, and perception, concerning the matter. I could be wrong. Let us all give thanks to our Almighty God for our Cayman Islands, yes, not ever the matter has been handled perfectly, but we have come a long way, believe me.
Why it is that every immigrant that comes here to work, or even on just a visit, never wants to leave? That speaks for itself.
We don't have anyone living on the sidewalks, "bugging" passengers on the docks for money, walking the streets without any shirt to wear, digging into garbage for something to eat, etc.
These are all examples of situations that I have seen in some countries that I have visited. I have seen cows on the waterfront trying to find a "turtle grass" or something else that they can eat.
People living in huts that don't even have flooring. Children bailing buckets of dirty water from gulleys that run on the sides of the road, only God knows what that water is used for. So again I say, thank you Almighty God, and God bless the Cayman Islands, and those pats of the world, that its people are less, fortunate.
Thank you for the space, Mr Editor, and don't get discouraged or intimidated.
N A Eliot
News about Cayman in the Foreign Press
News about Cayman in the Foreign Press
Choreographer adapts work commissioned for Cayman
NEWARK, USA According to the Star Ledger, choreographer Randy James has titled one of his new pieces "Unknown Horizon", which grew out of a commission to celebrate the quincentennial of the Cayman Islands, where James gave the work its premiere.
Owner to rebuild instead of moving to
Cayman
LONG BARN, USA The Union Democrat
reports that, fifteen months after a fire destroyed the Long Barn
Lodge, owner Scott Richards is rebuilding, although, he says,
"We could have walked out and probably moved to the Cayman
Islands or something."
Ferry excursion fares equated with going
to Cayman
NANTUCKET ISLAND, USA According
to the Inquirer, the one-year ferry excursion fare for vehicles,
which enables seasonal visitors to utilise subsidized rates, is
"like going to the Cayman Islands," referring to the
legal fiction some use to avoid taxes.
Federal lawsuit has Cayman connection
OAKLAND, USA The Tribune reports
that a federal lawsuit filed in San Francisco against a laboratory
and nutritional-supplement company tied to a doping scandal has
links to fraud cases alleging money laundering through accounts
in the Cayman Islands.
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News
From Our Region
Bahamas tax system must change says Finance Minister
Senator James Smith, Bahamas Minister of Finance
Whether or not the Bahamas decides to join a trade arrangement, the country's current tax regime will have to be reformed, State Minister of Finance James Smith said last week.
According to the Nassau Guardian, Senator Smith said that in order to reduce economic distortions, stabilise finances and expand the tax base, the current tax system would need to be reformed.
"Despite its ease of collection, the application of customs duties is essentially a bad tax regime for a modern economy," Senator Smith said.
Approximately 46 percent, representing $1 billion of the 2003 revenue budget, was collected from customs duties and excise taxes. Stamp duty represented 22 percent, and tourism taxes nine per cent, with the remaining 30 percent consisting of other revenue items such as real property tax, motor vehicle registration and gaming taxes.
Total annual revenue taken
in by the Government equalled approximately $1 billion, which
translates to about 20 percent of Gross Domestic Product, placing
the country among the lowest tax jurisdictions in the Caribbean
region.
The Minister noted that currently, the Government was over-reliant
on taxes from international trade that could present certain risks,
some of which became clearly evident after 11 September.
The contraction in the tourist industry translated into reduced amounts of imported goods being needed, which adversely impacted Government revenue. This led to the surpluses experienced in previous budgets becoming deficits and a source of concern for both the domestic and international community, including the International Monetary Fund.
Because of the "regressive nature" of the existing tax structure, Senator Smith said, "It tends to impact more heavily on low-income households that are in upper income brackets."
He said if lower income families spet the majority of their income on consumer goods, they would pay a disproportionately larger share of import duties than others.
The current tax structure also forced business to tie up considerable amounts of cashflow inventory before any sales were made, he pointed out.
Senator Smith said any new tax regime adopted would have to yield sufficient revenue to replace the combined total of customs and stamp duties, which constituted the bulk of tax revenue collected by the Government.
According to the State Finance Minister, while the existing revenue system served the country well in the past, the time had come to critically review it and determine whether it still met the needs of a modern Bahamas.
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Prince
Edward on first visit to Guyana
The Earl and Countess of Wessex. AFP Photo: Tim Ockenden
The Earl of Wessex wrapped up his first visit to Guyana asking the government and business community of the former colony to support the youth leaders' movement.
Prince Edward was on the third stop of a Caribbean tour, which also includes visits to Antigua, Barbados and Dominica.
"Someone has given you a piece of advice
or has made an opportunity available to you," he said, speaking
at a fund-raiser for national youth groups helping fight HIV/AIDS.
"That is the reason we are here today."
The Caribbean has the world's second-highest HIV/AIDS infection
rate of 2.2 percent behind sub-Saharan Africa, which has an infection
rate of 8.8 percent.
"I am glad that I made it at last," Prince Edward said as flag-waving primary school students met his plane at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.
He met briefly with President Bharrat Jagdeo and laid wreaths at a monument for local police officers killed in service. He also presented awards to local youth under the Duke of Edinburgh Awards International Association, which Guyana joined last week.
Prince Edward travelled to Barbados before heading to the British territory of Bermuda to assess damage caused by Hurricane Fabian last month.
Bajan Anglican priest slams sex style of nationals
Barbadians need to take the HIV/AIDS threat serious and stop acting like "sex is going out of style." This strong condemnation has come from Anglican priest, Rev Maurice Thorne.
The Barbados Nation quoted the priest as saying, "It is not cricket! Sex will always be here, and there is no need to act like it is going out of style. If we do not change our ways all the money government is spending on combating the scourge of HIV/AIDS will be money thrown down a well."
Speaking during a service that was attended by the Parish Ambassadors taking part in this year's Community Independence Celebrations, Mr Thorne advised young men and women that there was no need for them to see if they could record 380 names of sex partners in a book.
The cleric reminded the ambassadors that they were also in the under-30 age group, which had been identified as the most vulnerable group where the disease was concerned, and urged both past and present ambassadors to offer their services to the National Commission on HIV/AIDS.
In his sermon, Mr Thorne touched on the role the ambassadors had in serving their communities, and told them to use the opportunity given them to build their character and become role models in their communities.
He also advised them to see the Parish Ambassador programme as the beginning of the level of service they could offer to their parish and the country as a whole and to encourage their peers to make useful and worthwhile contributions to the society.
Cricket
captain links up with Cable & Wire
Brian Lara AFP Photo/Raveendran
West Indies cricket captain Brian Lara has signed a two-year sponsorship agreement with Cable & Wireless to do television and print advertisements for the British telecommunications giant for an undisclosed sum.
Lara said ever since he began playing for the West Indies in 1990, the only sponsor he knew had been Cable & Wireless, the Barbados Nation reports.
"I assure you that I'll be representing not only myself but Cable & Wireless and West Indies people in a very high manner every time I wear that burgundy cap." And he called on the company and the West Indies Cricket Board to sign an agreement for the 2007 World Cup to be staged in the Caribbean.
"We hope that Cable & Wireless and the West Indies Cricket Board can definitely shake hands very soon to ensure the continued support of West Indies cricket will be there," Lara said.
He told Cable & Wireless that it should think about assisting other regional players because one of them could eclipse Australia's Matthew Hayden's world record of 380 for the highest individual score in Test, which he made against Zimbabwe earlier this month.
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Print
ad by electric company stirs controversy in Jamaica
An ad that is supposed to warn of the dangers of stealing electricity but features a bright-eyed baby girl, wearing diapers and vest, sitting in a large electric chair against a darkened background has come under criticism in Jamaica.
Critics say the Jamaica
Public Service Company (JPSCo), denigrates children, according
to the Jamaica Advocate.
The advertisement warns that stealing electricity is a crime,
which can result in a fine of up to $100,000 or an imprisonment
of eight years, "or a death sentence for someone innocent."
"(The advertisement) is disturbing and in poor taste," Ms Susan Goffe, chairman of the rights group, Jamaicans for Justice told the Observer.
Ms Betty-Ann Blaine, who heads the child advocacy group, Hear The Children's Cry Committee, described the advertisement as a denigration of children.
But Mr Winsome Callum, JPSCo's head of corporate communications, told the paper that the advertisements were aimed at raising public awareness that electricity theft was a crime, which could also lead to a loss of life and property.
"Very often it is the children who are victims of the illegal activities of adults," Mr. Callum was quoted as saying. "They often die in fires caused by illegal connections, or they are electrocuted by illegal wires around their homes."
The ad is part of a new campaign by JPSCo, the light and power company, to draw attention to the cost, and danger, of electricity theft, by using provocative images. It was produced by Patrick Waldemar's advertising agency, Waterworks, which has often won plaudits for its creativity.
JPSCo, which has more than 500,000 customers, estimates that it has 35,000 to 40,000 illegal connections to its system, accounting for between seven and eight percent of its energy output. JPSCo puts its loss from electricity theft at about US$20 million a year.
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Jamaican-born
billionaire sets up shop in T&T
Jamaican-born, Canadian-made billionaire, Mr Michael Lee-Chin is bringing the National Commercial Bank of Jamaica to the Trinidad & Tobago Stock Exchange by the end of this month.
The Trinidad Express reported that Mr Lee-Chin would not quantify the size of investment his company was considering in Trinidad, but used the CDN$217 million purchase of NCB in Jamaica as a comparison.
The 52-year-old chairman and chief executive of Canada-based AIC, which he turned from a CDN$800,000 mutual fund in 1985 into Canada's largest privately-owned mutual fund company, bought 75 per cent of the 52-branch NCB in 2002 for CDN$214 million, a sum that could be in the ballpark of investment he could start with here, said the paper. NCB shares currently trade around Jca$5 per stock unit.
"Trinidad is a wonderful opportunity," the Express quoted Mr Lee-Chin as saying. "We're looking at what opportunities we could get into and staying open-minded."
He personally owns more than 90 percent of AIC, giving him a net worth of about CDN$1.7 billion and is ranked by Canadian Business magazine as the 14th wealthiest person in that country. He is also listed as the 303rd wealthiest person in the world, by Forbes magazine.
Hotel
occupancy drops in the Bahamas
Hotels in Nassau and Paradise Island in the Bahamas have recorded poor results for September, Nassau Guardian reports indicate.
Five of the major hotels on New Providence and Paradise Island reported occupancy rates below 30 percent with South Ocean Golf and Beach Resort reporting the most disappointing results. Only four of the larger resorts on the islands saw occupancy rates above 50 percent.
The South Ocean resort has recently announced that it will lay-off up to half of its present employees and temporarily close approximately 100 guestrooms.
There is also speculation circulating that the property's owners are actively seeking a buyer for the property.
Community Calendar
Thursday, November 6
The Garden Club of Grand Cayman is meeting at 4 pm at the National Trust House off Eastern Avenue to tour the Native and Traditional Plant Garden. Garden Club members and guests are invited. For more information phone 949-0121.
Through October
The updated Events Calendar is available
from Government Information Services (GIS). The calendar may be
downloaded from the Local Issues section of the 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 is holding
a breastfeeding clinic every Thursday from 12:30 to 2 pm. The
Clinic will be held at the Women's Health Centre in the Cayman
Islands Hospital. The service is free and no appointment is 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
Turtle on the run for Cayman pride
(l-r) Greg Ebanks, CIFA Youth Committee Member, Cherry Whittaker, National Women's Assistant Coach, FIFA President Joseph Sepp Blatter and Therese Goddard, CIFA Women's Committee Chairperson at the recently concluded 3rd Annual FIFA Women's Symposium in Long Beach, California.
Three local football administrators went to Long Beach, California, recently to attend the Third Annual FIFA Women's Football Symposium.
The delegates included Cherry Ann Whittaker,
National Women's Assistant Coach; Therese Goddard, Chairperson
CIFA Women's Committee and Greg Ebanks, General Secretary for
Scholars and member CIFA Youth Committee.
"We are pleased to be participating in these symposiums which
empower our young Caymanian administrators to be an integral part
in the development of Cayman Football. It is the plans that we
execute today, that will determine our future," said CIFA
President Jeffrey Webb.
The two-day symposium, attended by approximately 190 individuals representing 125 countries, gave delegates the opportunity to use their know-how and expertise to strengthen women's football and the position held by women in football worldwide.
CIFA delegate Therese Goddard found the symposium personally enlightening, "it was educational and very focused in laying the ground work to tackle the various problems we face in women's football."
Ms Whittaker added: "As a country, the problems we face are not unique. From the largest to the smallest we all have the same challenges." She added that delegates took the time to share their success stories in overcoming some of these challenges.
FIFA President, Joseph Blatter's message to the delegates opened with his delight at how far women's football has progressed. "Over the decades women's football has made enormous progress while we can talk about women's football, we can also refer to women in football. In the four years that have passed since the last symposium, much has changed for the good," he said.
The delegates rounded out the week by attending the final and semi final matches of the 2003 FIFA Women's World Cup.
Little League Seeks Auctions Items
This rare, autographed book by Amelia Earhart is one of the items for bid at the Little League Auction on 15 November at the Marriott Beach Resort.
The popular annual Little League auction is on deck once again and will take place on Saturday, 15 November at the Marriott Beach Resort starting at 6 pm.
The major fundraising event of the year for the Cayman Islands Little League (CILL) gives attendees the chance to buy a wide variety of valuable and unique items ranging from rare collectables to fabulous vacation trips at amazing bargains.
The fun-filled evening includes a three-course sit-down dinner with reduced drink prices and is one of the most anticipated fundraising events in Cayman. Even those who don't buy anything at the auction will enjoy watching the exciting action, though the great prices on items usually induce most people to bid on something.
Currently, the Little League needs a number of items to stock the Silent Auction portion of the event's programme, and it is appealing to all residents and business for donations of new or collectible items valued from $5-$500. The Silent Auction brochure must be printed within days, so donors are urged to call Jeanette at 916-0233 now and step up to the plate to help the Little League.
The Little League Auction will undoubtedly sell out again this year. Those interested in attending should get on the ball and purchase tickets now. Tickets cost $40 and are available through John Ogilvie on 916-5643. Tables of ten are available for $400, and can be arranged through Sara Mackay on 947-1572 or at mackay@candw.ky.
Darts players get ready for Florida tourney
The Cayman Islands Darts Association (CIDA) recently kicked off training and eliminations for the next Caribbean Cup Darts Tournament, which takes place in Fort Lauderdale, Florida next June.
The Cayman Islands Darts Association (CIDA) recently kicked off training and eliminations for the next Caribbean Cup Darts Tournament, which takes place in Fort Lauderdale, Florida next June.
The trials attracted one of the largest turnouts yet and this bodes well for the Cayman Islands Team, which put in their best performance two years ago when the Caribbean Cup was hosted here.
This year there will be a round robin format for the eliminations which will reduce the number of participants from 50 at present to 28 from which the final 12 players comprising of eight men and four ladies will be chosen.
The venue selected for these games is the Corner Pocket Sports Bar where there are seven tournament dart oches (lines) set up for the trials, which occur on Wednesday nights.
Recently an election to choose a national coach was held by secret ballot and former coach and current President of the CIDA Emerald Mohammed was elected by a landslide.
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Hollywood
movie premiere to support Olympic Committee's drive to raise funds
for athletes
Movie Producer and Cayman Islands resident, Mr. Louis Massicotte, is bringing a major movie Premiere to Grand Cayman. "The Perfect Husband" will Premiere at "The Marquee Cinema" on Friday, 5 December 2003.
The Producer premiered "A Woman Hunted," in Grand Cayman earlier this year to benefit the Cayman Islands Crisis Centre. This time all proceeds will go to the Cayman Islands Olympic Committee to benefit the Athletes for the 2004 Summer Olympics.
The film's four stars Tracy Nelson, Michael Riley, Andrea Roth and Thomas Calabro will travel to Grand Cayman to attend the Premiere and reception that follows at the Verandah Restaurant, together with Representatives from Lion Tropical Productions. Special guests of honour will include Cayman's past and present Olympians.
"This time, we have a different movie and a different cause, to raise funds to benefit the Cayman Islands Athletes. Being associated with the Cayman Islands Olympic Committee is indeed a great honour," commented Mr. Massicotte.
"I have had the pleasure of working on many Committees before, Mr. Massicotte said, "but the individuals on the CIO Fundraising Committee are second to none. They are focused, determined and committed to the cause of sending our young Caymanian athletes to the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens."
The Olympic Fundraising Committee, spearheaded by Betty Baraud, Chairperson, who has served in this capacity since 1992, has set a fundraising goal of $100,000 for this event.
Ms Baraud said, "I am very confident that this goal will be realised, in view of the fantastic committee members we have, and the enthusiasm that is being generated for this cause. We are receiving much support and financial donations for this event, and encourage other Corporate Sponsors to join us in this cause." Ms Baraud said, "In order to achieve any task, one must be committed and focused, our Committee Members are focused and very passionate about getting our Athletes to the Olympics in 2004 and their enthusiasm and drive will make this undertaking possible."
Betty Baraud knows first hand what it feels like to see one's Country represented at the Olympics. "The overwhelming pride that one feels in seeing their Athletes march in the Opening Ceremonies of the Olympics is inexplicable, I have been fortunate to have experienced this on two occasions, as a result of my son, Stefan's participation in the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona and 1996 in Atlanta," Ms Baraud said.
Mr. Massicotte said: "We have great values to be promoted and the film only serves as a backdrop and added entertainment value for the generosity of the evening's guests. A healthy mix of movie Stars, Athletes, Dignitaries and members of our Country can only amount to an entertaining evening, which will be one of the many conduits in raising the awareness of the values and needs of our young athletes."
So far, Kareem Streete-Thompson, Cydonie Mothersill and Andrew MacKay have qualified for the 2004 Olympics in Athens. However, travel, accommodation and training for the Athletes are on going and very expensive. This Fundraising event is one of several planned by the Committee over the next 10 months to help pave the way to Athens 2004.
Tickets will go on sale in November. For more immediate information, please contact the offices of Baraud International on 945-1781, or any of the Olympic Committee Members.
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Young
Guns ready to fire
Young people of all skill levels at the hoop are being encouraged to register for the new Basketball Association league.
The Young Guns under-25 basketball league will feature 12 players on each team, and there should be no more than two national players on each side. The league has a registration fee of $25 per player.
The registration deadline is Tuesday (28 October) and the league games begin on Tuesday, 4 November.
Registration forms may be collected and dropped off, along with the fees, at the Department of Youth, Sports and Community Development, third floor, Tower Building, between 8:30 am and 5 pm.
Further information can be obtained from the department's assistant basketball coach Redver Ebanks at 949-7082.
The Second Annual Governor's cricket match to be held on Sunday
The Cayman Islands Cricket Association (CICA) will present the Second Annual Governor's Match on Sunday, 26 October at the Jimmy Powell Oval starting at noon.
Patron of CICA, His Excellency the Governor Mr Bruce Dinwiddy, Leader of Government Business and Minister of Tourism the Hon McKeeva Bush, Minister of Sports Dr the Hon Frank McField and the Hon Kurt Tibbets, Leader of the Opposition will be present at the match, and may even play.
Former local cricket players have also been invited to participate in the match.
Monday, 20 October
Hash House Harriers run, Cayman National Bank, Elgin Avenue 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 24 October, between 7 pm and 8:30
pm. For
additional 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.
Saturday 8 November
Flowers Corporate Relay Run takes place. Further information about
the event can be obtained from the president Mr Bernie Bush on
916-3169 or the coach Mr Kenrick Williams on 927-3046 or 943-1111.
Every Monday
The Cayman Islands Duplicate Bridge Club meets every Monday night
at 7:15. Visitors are welcome. For more information, call Audrey
at 949-2371.
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