Issue No. 519 Tuesday, 28 October 2003

Cruise ship passengers arrived in record numbers for the month of September, surpassing 100,000 for the summer month for the first time in history, according to figures recently released by the Department of Tourism.

The 113,258 cruise passengers that arrived during September represented an incredible 63 percent increase over the record number that arrived in the same period last year.

The September number even slightly surpassed the 111,875 cruise passenges that arrived here in August, the first time that has happened. Last year, cruise arrivals dropped 45 percent from August to September, and in 2001 they dropped 33 percent.
All together through the end of September, 1,288,644 cruise ship passengers have arrived on the Island. Though the total figure for the entire year will not reach the 2.1 million projected earlier in the year, it will most likely hit the 1.75 million mark, nearly 200,000 passengers past last year's record number.

In December of this year, cruise ship passenger could surpass the 180,915 record for a single month, set in January of this year. On 16 December alone, over 20,000 cruise passengers are scheduled to come ashore, and ships are due in all but three days during the month.

Air arrivals for the month were nearly identical to 2002 at 11,336, only three persons more than last September. The month is traditionally the slowest month for stay-over tourists, with October being the second slowest.

Total air arrivals stand at 221,045 through three quarters of the 2003.

With only three months of statistics left to come, Cayman will almost assuredly fail to attract 300,000 stay-over tourists for the first time since method of recording arrivals was changed in January, 2000. It is quite possible that number could even dip below 290,000. For comparison, there were 354,087 air arrivals in 2000, and 334,071 in 2001 when there was a major drop-off in air arrivals in the last quarter after the terrorist attacks in the United States.

November should offer relief from the air arrival decline that starts in August, as historically the month should closely resemble both January and May from a stay-over tourist standpoint.

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Cable & Wireless wins Pirates Week 2003 Float Parade

Olivia Scott and Don Seymour enjoy the Pirates Week Landing.

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Warning over counterfeit banknotes

The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority in conjunction with the Royal Cayman Islands Police (RCIP) have issued a warning, to the public and retailers, to be aware of counterfeit Cayman Islands currency that is currently in circulation.

The RCIP have launched a full investigation into the matter and warn that the notes are in denominations of 100, 50 and 25 dollars. Both designs of the fifty-dollar banknote, the 2001 and 2003 issues, are among this circulation of counterfeit currency.

Although the serial numbers are different, the notes discovered so far do not have the turtle watermark or the window thread security features. In particular, the schooner hologram on the 100-dollar banknote is blue instead of the genuine reflective metallic silver.

Anyone who comes into possession of these or similar notes, or any persons with information regarding counterfeit currency are asked to contact either Sergeant Rudolph Gordon on 244-2957 or Constable Claire Jackson on 244-2956.

Alternatively, reports can be made to Crime Stoppers on 800-TIPS (8477). Calls to Crime Stoppers are answered in Miami, Florida, and callers can remain anonymous.
Information relating to the security features of Cayman Islands banknotes can be found on the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority's website www.cimoney.com.ky.

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ASSI meets in Cayman

Group photo of the ASSI delegates with His Excellency the Governor, Minister Gilbert McLean, Permanent Secretary Andrea Bryan, Assistant Secretary Satina DaCosta, and Deputy Director David Frederick. Photo by Nikki McCoy, CAA.

The Air Safety Support International (ASSI), a subsidiary of the UK CAA met this week on Grand Cayman. Formed earlier this year, ASSI has overall responsibility to ensure oversight for aviation safety in the UK Overseas Territories (OT's). Its role is reflective of the UK Government's recognition of the autonomy of the OT's in regulating aviation in the respective territories while simultaneously ensuring compliance with the UK's international obligations.

Present at the autumn quarterly board meeting were members of ASSI from the UK, as well as board members representing the OT's, Ian McIntyre, Director of Civil Aviation for Bermuda and Richard Smith, Director of Civil Aviation for the Cayman Islands, who was the first nominated OT official to serve on the ASSI Board.

This meeting represents ASSI's first meeting in one of the OT's. Present at the opening session of the board meeting were His Excellency the Governor, Minister for Aviation, the Hon Gilbert McLean; Permanent Secretary Andrea Bryan, Assistant Secretary Satina DaCosta and Deputy Director of Civil Aviation David Frederick and Manager for Corporate Communication & Marketing at the Civil Aviation, Nikki McCoy.

The Governor, who is the ultimate Cayman Islands Official responsible for the regulation of Aviation in the Cayman Islands welcomed the delegates to the island and expressed his approval at the progress made to date since ASSI has been formed with regards to the OT's.

"I believe it's very encouraging that ASSI has moved so quickly to address issues affecting the OT's in meeting their own individual obligations, particularly in ongoing work on Overseas Territories Aviation Regulations (OTAR's). It is becoming clear that ASSI's commitment will provide the tools necessary for the OT's to strengthen their own regulatory infrastructures," he said.

Minister McLean offered his wishes for a productive meeting, but also pledged support to the aviation industry to ensure that the Cayman Islands is at the forefront of this vital industry, the following excerpt from his remarks demonstrates, "It is appropriate at this time to reiterate that the Cayman Islands is committed to the safety of aviation, and that my Government in particular will do whatever is within its power, for the Cayman Islands to be held up and recognized in the international arena as a leader in aviation. It is acknowledged that this industry is vital to the continued success of the Cayman Islands as a premiere tourism and financial destination."

The group arrived on-island this week and commenced their meeting on Monday, 20 October. While here the delegates hope to be able to visit some of the tourism offerings and get to know their colleagues at the Civil Aviation Authority of the Cayman Islands.

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News

Lions Club holds Sight Night

Receiving receptacle being placed at Hurley's on Walkers Road by (l-r) Lion Alfonso Wright, Club Secretary, Martin Bodden, Committee member, Gordon McLaughlin, 1st Vice-President in charge of sight, and Lennie Hew, Sight Committee Chairman.

A major project called Sight, will be enhanced by a Sight Night, which will take place at Halloween. The idea of the event is to recycle used pairs of glasses, and distribute them to people who need them.

The Lions Club has been collecting used pairs of glasses for several years, however this year a more public appeal is being made to increase awareness of the benefits that can be gained by recycling pairs of glasses.

Citizens will be able to deposit their old pairs of glasses in Halloween pumpkins that will be placed in each of the seven supermarkets on Grand Cayman.

The project will come to a climax on Friday, 31 October, with a trick-or-treat, but instead of traditional treats, the Lions Club is hoping to collect hundreds of old pairs of glasses.

Lions Club member and Sight Committee Chairman, Lennie Hew stated that Lions Club members around the world fitted thousands of people with glasses, and locally the Lions Club have provided needy people with glasses too.

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Cash comes rolling in to Cancer Society

Cayman Islands Cancer Society raised more than CI$2,500 during it's recent fund-raising effort.

Volunteers collected the cash outside First Caribbean Bank, Foster's Food Fair, Hurley's Marketplace, Jose's Service Station, Kirk's Supermarket and Delworth's Esso on 17 and 18 October.

The Cancer Society offers free educational materials, quit smoking classes, medical equipment rental and financial assistance for cancer patients. It can be contacted at (345) 949-7618 or e-mailed at cicansoc@candw.ky.

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Cayman's future youth and industry leaders

Forty-five dedicated Year 11 students from both public and private high schools in the Cayman Islands will take a huge leap in their professional development with the start of the Mentoring Cayman 2003-2004 programme which began this week.

The programme completed its first year in June 2003, having guided 49 students through mentoring relationships with some of Cayman's top-level professionals in every field.

The Cayman Islands National Mentoring Partnership is a joint initiative between the Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce and the Ministry of Education, Human Resources and Culture to assist high school students to become the next generation of business and community leaders.

As part of the programme schedule, students have daylong workplace visits once every month with their mentors to fully experience the working environment.

Discussing the merits of the programme, Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Officer Mr Wil Pineau said, "Mentoring provides excellent rewards for each of the parties involved. It provides for a learning relationship between two people based on respect, trust, commitment and support. We are very grateful to the professionals who have come on board to help guide these talented young people on their way."

The central goals of Mentoring Cayman include motivating students to achieve higher results in school, introducing students to potential new career paths, encouraging students to go on to post-secondary education, helping students understand their own strengths and capabilities and developing a positive work ethic among students
To take part in the Mentoring Cayman programme, students must be enrolled in Year 11 or equivalent with an excellent report, be nominated by their school for displaying maturity and aptitude for success, and receive parental approval for participation.

Mentors in the Mentoring Cayman programme must be willing and able to make a significant and regular commitment, be knowledgeable in a particular field, be experienced in some type of volunteer service, and be highly regarded in the community and their places of business. All participating mentors attend a short training workshop prior to the start of the programme.

To find out more about Mentoring Cayman, visit the Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce web site at www.caymanchamber.ky

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Cayman's future youth and industry leaders

It's all in a day's work: Trent McCoy and Jennie Pacheco enjoy putting their skills to the test.

Today Cayman Net News begins the first of its series of feature profiles of Caymanians who have enjoyed tremendous success in non-traditional careers, and trades which young Caymanians have not historically been eager to take up as a career.

Eight of these such industries will be showcased at TVET 2003, an expo sponsored by the Department of Employment Relations to promote technical and vocational education and training. It is being held on 19 and 20 November at the Family Life Centre.

Trent McCoy's love for construction developed over the years when as a kid he watched his grandfather, a carpenter, fashion people's dreams for a home into reality using a hammer, a saw and an inborn gift for working with his hands, while Jennie Pacheco stumbled upon her chosen path almost by accident but with a little help from a stalwart within the industry.

However their passion was discovered is of no consequence; what is most important is that these two young Caymanians have found their place in this world and are enjoying success and deriving satisfaction from their chosen profession: CONSTRUCTION.

Trent, 34, from North Side and 24-year-old Jennie of George Town are two individuals who chose to pursue a career that many of their peers have shied away from, perhaps even looked upon with disdain. Many people associate construction with toiling in the hot Cayman sun, backbreaking labour and a lot of dirt and grim. This is indeed one aspect of the business but Trent and Jenny are the first to tell you that there is more to construction than the weather and physical conditions and that it is a very lucrative profession which has netted great financial rewards and provided them both with a lot of satisfaction.

"What many people don't realise is that there is an academic side to construction," said Trent.

"Yes, you are out in the sun in the trenches getting your hands dirty and doing manual labour but there is also the opportunity to move beyond that to the project management side of things, overseeing a job from start to finish, surveying a prospective site or preparing a bid for a new job."

Trent knows what he's talking about as he has been exposed to several aspects of the business, from drawing house plans at local architectural firm CGMJ to operating Caterpillar Front End Loaders and Trucks at the East End Quarry.

"I strongly recommend getting as much training as possible. It makes you more valuable on a construction site. On the job training is essential," he says.

Trent spent a few years doing just that, concrete testing at Tomlinson Engineering during the construction of the Radisson Hotel (now known as the Marriott Resort) and the Great House Condominiums, after which time he decided to pursue his interest at a higher level. He went off to college at the University of Texas, San Antonio where he obtained a Bachelor Degree in Civil Engineering.

Upon his return, Trent went to work at a local construction firm as a section engineer.

Now, as a site engineer, his duties include laying out the foundation of building(s) on a property, surveying the topography of the land, estimating quantities of fill material, ordering and purchasing material, resolving any conflicts with or among the sub-contractors, liaising with the utilities companies in regards to connection and planning appointments with Government inspectors during the construction process.

"Working on a construction site is never boring," says Trent. "Every day presents a new challenge and an opportunity to learn something new. The most fulfilling part of this kind of work is being able to physically see your accomplishments at the end of the day."

Seeing one's hard work translate into financial gain is also an advantage. A site engineer earns between CI$48000-CI$63000 per annum, not too shabby for a day's work in the hot sun! Trent is quick to point out other non-tangible perks such as the fact that his dress code consists of a t-shirt, shorts or jeans and sneakers, he doesn't have to sit behind a desk all day and he's constantly on the move.

When asked about TVET 2003, Trent is certain about the perception that he wants people to come away with from the two-day event. "At the end of the day, I hope these people will recognise the construction industry as a respectable and honourable industry to be involved in and that a career in construction is just as rewarding as a career in banking, tourism or law."

Jennie echoes Trent's sentiments and fervor in this regard. "Construction is just as noble a profession as any other!" she exclaims. "I want kids and their parents to get the message that there is no shame in being a carpenter or a mason or a plumber. At the end of the day, all of these people can and should take pride in the fact that they have made a valuable contribution to society. Not everyone can walk past a school or a hotel or a hospital and claim that he/she helped to build that structure but those who can, should feel extremely proud of that accomplishment."

Jennie is a product of the Community College of the Cayman Islands having begun her college career there in the Physical Science Associates Degree programme. Originally a Civil Engineering major, she decided to switch to Construction Management after doing a bit of research. She credits Hadsphaltic International's then Director, Cameron Graham, with opening her mind to the wide range of possibilities within the construction industry.

"I was initially interested in architecture but during a summer internship at Hadsphaltic, Mr Graham introduced me to the other areas of construction such as quantity surveying and field engineering," Jennie says.

"I am so grateful to him for making the time and taking the interest in me. Throughout my time at University he kept in touch with me, even lending me his textbooks, and went out of his way to make sure I learnt everything I could about the industry. Whenever I came back to work at Hadsphaltic during my summer breaks, he would give me opportunities to work in the areas I had just learned about the previous semester."

In fact, Jennie points out, there are many opportunities for Caymanians in construction, whether in the trades aspect or the project management side, and she advises young Caymanians who are interested in this field to seek those out and take advantage of them. She also emphasises the importance of finding a mentor such as Mr Graham who can provide wise counsel and guidance.

Upon graduation from Florida International University in 2001, Jennie returned to Hadsphaltic with her Construction Management degree in hand where she immediately went to work on the Mental Health and Geriatric Facility project at the hospital.

Following that job, eager for more exposure and experience, she returned to Florida where she worked for a construction firm as an assistant project scheduler assigned to the Performing Arts Centre of Greater Miami for almost a year. Working overseas is something that Jennie recommends highly.

"One of the most important lessons I learnt from my time away working with another company in another country is that when a team is compiled and there are a number of different cultures and personalities represented within that group, it greatly affects how the work is carried out," says Jennie.

"We have to be sensitive to this fact and adjust our mindset and our attitudes accordingly. I am sure this is the case in any industry but it was something that I hadn't realised working at home. It was made very clear to me while I worked in Miami however."

When asked what she loves most about her job, Jennie says it's the dynamism of the industry.

"Every day is truly different in construction," she remarks. "The conditions change with the hour. I love to interact with people and 80 per cent of my day is working with others, planning and coordinating the next stage of development in the building project."

She also likes to work with the surveying instruments and other complex software that makes certain tasks much easier for her.

Jennie is a pioneer of sorts as one of the first Caymanian women, if not the only one, to obtain a degree in Construction Management, a label that she hastens to dismiss. She does, however, want to encourage other Caymanian women to think about pursuing a career in construction as she did.

"Obviously women are the minority in this industry but that should inspire and challenge us to jump in there instead of deterring us," enthuses Jennie. "We can work to overcome the stereotypes that exist about women in construction and demonstrate that we are just as capable as our male counterparts."

Jennie says that her family and friends' reaction to her decision to put on a hard hat and go out on a construction site for a living was mixed. "My father basically told me to go for it, my mom thought I wasn't serious and that I would change my mind eventually, my friends were skeptical, my teachers were incredibly supportive and I questioned myself as to whether I was making the right decision."

As an Assistant Project Manager at Hadsphaltic, Jennie knows now that she made the right choice. She has found her niche and is carving out her career in a historically men-only profession. She's also made quite an impression on the people around her.

"Jennie has worked hard and taken every opportunity to obtain her degree, which is the first stepping stone to a professional career in the construction industry," says Chris Sutton, General Manager at Hadsphaltic International.

"We will continue to provide her with the chance to continue that learning experience by creating a role for her which will give her every opportunity to obtain the skills necessary to become a successful Construction Manager."

In their continuous efforts to enhance their skills and knowledge base, Jennie and Trent are currently pursuing Engineering and Construction Project Management certification through Colorado State University.

Upon completion of this online course, they will be members of the Project Management Institute (PMI) which is recognised as the leading nonprofit professional association in the area of Project Management with over 112,000 members worldwide.

Trent McCoy and Jennie Pacheco are two examples of individuals who have chosen to overlook the stigma that is associated with construction in the minds of young Caymanians and Cayman's construction industry is the better for it.

They will be at TVET 2003, which takes place on Wednesday, 19 November and Thursday, 20 November at the Family Life Centre from 9 am 7 pm. For more information contact event organiser Kelly Holding Ltd. on 946-8822 or email info@kellyholding.com.

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A new day dawns on Sunrise Adult Training Centre

Making Christmas ornaments at the Sunrise Centre

"Very, very happy, and much calmer," is how Sunrise Adult Training Centre Director Roberta Gordon describes her charges a group of young adults who are specially challenged by a range of disabilities, some physical, some mental.

Over the years, their stubborn drive to progress and overcome, or learn to live with, this infirmity has testified to the strength and will-power of these "trainees."

Today, there are 35 regulars from all across Grand Cayman. Of these, six make valuable contributions as full-time employees, and an equal number work part-time in locations including supermarkets, restaurants, hotels, offices and the Health Services Department.

Mrs Gordon explained that the trainees' happiness and sense of calmness has come about because of the Centre's new location at the tip of West Bay, near Pappagallo Restaurant, where they can finally extend their physical and emotional wings. "After all they, more than anyone, knew and regularly expressed that they had outgrown the centre next to the John A. Cumber Primary School," said Mrs Gordon.

Her delight is shared by Dr the Hon Frank McField, Minister for Community Services, Youth, Sports and Gender Affairs, who commented, "This is a vital national service, catering to the needs of a special segment of our population."

He emphasised that the Sunrise clients should be treated with the respect and compassion they deserved, by accommodating their continued growth as well as, where possible, their development as responsible young adults.

The new building covers more than 5,000 square feet, compared with some 1,200 in the previous Centre. Originally two duplexes, the six-bedroom four-bath building which government has leased has been converted to a multi-purpose training centre.

The renovated facilities comprise new life-skills areas, which allow clients to clean, iron, and develop other abilities. Two kitchens also allow them to hone their cooking skills. There are also new living, dining and recreational areas.

A significant development is the office skills area, complete with computer training. "This is our newest and most exciting feature of our programming," said Mrs Gordon. "In addition, we will soon be offering computer-based programmes with special interactive hands-on kits, that provide vocational assessment and training. It will be used by the Lighthouse School, Young Parents Programme, Alternative Education, and by the adult and juvenile branches of the prison system.

The kitchens allow the clients to hone their cooking skills

A multi-purpose area doubles as a medical centre, and the Centre's spacious double-garage is soon to be converted into a gym.

Even the location is of benefit to the students, for the clear sea breeze blows in from a short distance away. The half-acre lot allows for recreation, as well as practical activities such as gardening.

The plight of children with special needs was initially focused upon by the Bosun Bay Presbyterian Church and community members in the early 1970s. The Sunrise Centre was established 17 years ago, for those who had outgrown the Lighthouse School. The Centre now caters to these and other persons who have grown up with disabilities. Originally, there were nine young clients in dire need of attention to all aspects of their development: physical, social, emotional and educational.

The director's cheerful description of the new environment at the relocated Centre can also be applied to her staff members, each of whom offers a special skill and service. Many now have in-depth understandings of the characters and needs of their clients. The dedicated work of this staff has enabled the clients then to reach and exceed their goals, whether the home, work setting, or in physical competition.

Mrs Gordon has been with the Centre for 13 years. Her colleague, Deputy Director Bonnie Moxan is also a fixture at the centre for she has worked there for more than a decade, along with other long-serving staff. Occupational Therapist Jason Banez aids the trainees in a range of areas, from their ongoing physical therapy and motor development training, to vocational placements.

The aspect of the Sunrise programme of which the staff is most proud are the strides gained in developing the coping skills of these young people. The director explained that this aspect of the Centre's agenda has been successful largely because of the collaborative effort between all the country's services. This includes the Children and Family Services (formerly Social Services), Health Services Authority, Public Health Department, as well as professionals in the fields of mental health, dental and vision care.

While health and social services are major players in this special programme, their clients' needs are too unique to be dealt with by any one government ministry or department. Therefore, qualified persons in a range of fields give them the appropriate care. For instance, the Education Department has forged a strong partnership with the Sunrise Centre. The education psychologist conducts testing as needed, and a physical education instructor makes weekly visits to provide PE classes.

Just as important are the emotional aspects of the clients' development, which need significantly more attention in persons with disabilities. As a result, ongoing group and individual therapy sessions allow for counseling on a range of emotional issues.

Along with the new location are other new services, especially for those clients living in the eastern districts. Their participation in the programme has been largely enabled by improved transportation, namely the donation of a second bus by the Cayman National Bank. The CNB staff has adopted the centre as a special labour of love, completing painting and other works at the new centre over recent months. The bus is also used to facilitate increased social outings, in areas from East End to West Bay. This enables the development of the community access role of the centre, which has been under-sourced for some time.

Other commitments and assistance continue to be offered by individuals, and companies as diverse as West Indian Club Nursery, Cracked Conch and Canaan Land. "Of course, the dedication of the parents, families and supporters who comprise the Sunrise Caring Association, has been invaluable over the years," said Mrs Gordon. "These individuals have ensured that the needs, both large and small, have been attended to with compassion and a practical approach for the past two decades. This is only natural, for the home environment is the first resource for people with special needs."

The realisation of the new Sunrise Centre has been a major objective of the government for some time, and has remained a special consideration of Dr McField's ministry since he took responsibility for the centre earlier this year.

As for the future, the director and staff hope to eventually occupy a purpose-built facility, as the needs for the clients continue to evolve as they grow older. For instance, they say there is already a "high need" for residential and programming support in establishing an independent living community for these clients. As they mature and forge friendships and relationships, the natural need to be free of their homes develops. This is compounded by their increased skill-levels and sense of self-responsibility.

"Whatever the future holds for the clients and staff of the Sunrise Centre, they can continue their efforts with the reassurance that they have the continued support of government, and the country as a whole," concluded Dr McField.

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Editorial

US travel to Cuba threatens Cayman

Now that both the United States House of Representatives and the Senate have voted to lift the 41-year-old travel ban by US citizens to Cuba, those in Cayman's tourism industry must anxiously await to see if President George W. Bush issues what basically amounts to a stay of execution for many of the Cayman Islands' businesses that cater to tourists.

Despite the fact that 19 Republican Senators broke rank with party and the measure passed overwhelmingly, President Bush has said that he will veto the proposal, asserting that travel to Cuba by American tourists would only help maintain the oppressive dictatorship of Fidel Castro.

Rhetoric aside, Mr. Bush might not want to follow through with his veto threat and risk alienating members of his own party on an issue that is probably not very high on his priorities list, given what is going on in the Middle East, and with the US economy.

Should the presidential veto fail to materialize, things could get difficult here very quickly.

In many respects, the Cayman Islands, along with other destinations in the region, have had a four-decade free run in the tourism stakes. Up to the early 1950s, Cuba was very much the destination of choice for a large segment of the American travel market, with the lure of its warm, sunny beaches, lush mountain landscapes, and crystal and friendly people. Adding to the mix was an island steeped in culture, with fabulous hotels, magnificent clubs, world-renowned artists, and, of course, casino gambling.

Things have changed since the '50s, but Cuba still offers the tourist much more variety than Cayman, at a fraction of the cost.

It should not be dismissed either, that Cuba is closer to the United States, albeit not by much, and that flight times are shorter, something that appeals to a country whose citizens are not somewhat apprehensive about flying.

Cuba can also accommodate much larger and more comfortable aircraft, which is a factor that will appeal to both American tourists and the airlines that will fly them there.
Those in the tourism industry in this country that say lifting the US travel ban to Cuba will not significantly affect Cayman and there are those who are saying exactly that are simply living in denial, another example of the ostrich with his head in the sand.

Granted, Cayman has some specific advantages over Cuba in attracting specific kinds of tourists, particularly the ones that what to make investments ranging from mutual funds, to captive insurance companies, to condominiums on the beach.

Nevertheless, tourism is a whole other cup of rum. Americans tourist will flock back Cuba, at first, maybe, just because they can, but later because they will like it there, and they will like the value for their money that they get there.

Already, Jamaican tourism interests are predicting a slump in visitors from America if the travel-ban to Cuba is lifted, and they have already begun preparing for that contingency.

What, if anything, are we doing in the Cayman Islands to make similar preparations?
The talks between Cayman's tourism officials and Cuban tourism organization called Cubanacan about mulit-destination tourism between the two countries are a step in the right direction, and we hope those discussions are still being actively pursued.

However, the real focus of attention must be on how to maintain Cayman as a desirable, unique vacation destination. An overly-priced, overly-Americanised, cruise-ship-passenger-clogged country is undoubtedly not the way, so this country's tourism leaders, in both the public and private sector, had best start developing a comprehensive plan.

Otherwise, our best and maybe only hope of maintaining our current financial status will rest with the stroke of US President Bush's pen.

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Local Commentary

Time for young people to do some giving back to the less fortunate

By Stephanie Bush

A lot of our values have diminished as we have revolved into a new age. Things that were thought of as sacred, now have no significant meaning whatsoever, especially when it comes to relationships. Everyone is so ready to jump head first into a relationship.

As a young person, I know just exactly how serious "relationships" are to people my age. It's like a trend, if you don't have a boyfriend or girlfriend then there must be something wrong with you. It is not just the young people though. Most of the adults of today have "been around the block" so many times that they're starting to circle the globe.

Twenty years ago, finding that "special someone" was a treasure waiting to be discovered, now it's like people are just taking what they can get, giving no thought to love or commitment.

"Commitment," that's a word no-one likes. You hear it all the time, "I'm just not ready to commit" and usually it's a statement that takes place after about the fourth child is born by the third different woman.

The gender that happens to be the most lackadaisical on this subject is the men, and I'm not just talking about here in Cayman, but I mean throughout the world.

There are guys who have two different women in the maternity ward at the same time and then they wonder why they are not able to get their lives straightened out.

The reason young people are the way they are today is because they are just following the example that has been set for them throughout the past generations.

hey have not been taught that love is something to be cherished and finding the person that you plan to spend the rest of your life with is not a competition. Falling in love isn't about who can be the most promiscuous, in fact that is so far from the truth.

There are girls who think that they can get their boy friend to stay with them if they get pregnant.

They think that, that somehow that ties them together when really all it does it make them run even faster.

If by some chance they do get tied down, they then spend the rest of their lives terribly unhappy trying to clean it up and pick up the pieces.

Having a relationship is not something that should take first priority when you're still in the process of growing up. Believe me, the idea of "growing up together" does not work.

Your teen years should be a fun learning experience. Ones in which you happen to pave the road of your future. The choices that you make now just aren't going to affect you a day from now, a week from now, or even a month from now, but for the rest of your life.

Don't be in such a hurry to grow up. Once you're an adult you're always an adult. You can't go back, but if your life right, you won't want to.

Choosing someone to spend the rest of your life with is a very serious decision, and it takes time and lots of growing up.

Saying a little prayer about it wouldn't hurt you any either. Remember, there's no better Advisor than the One upstairs.

The youth of today aren't very religious and there is a possibility that's part of the problem, maybe they need to be.

The God that you may hear about either from the older folks in your life, or perhaps church is a good God, and He isn't just a God for "old people".

So really, what have you got to lose? Do something different today and say a prayer.

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Letter to the Editor

Thank you to everyone who helped me at a difficult time

Dear Sir,

Thank you very much indeed for your wonderful review of my book, Power Thoughts For Triumphant Living. You summarised in one-half page what it took me too years to write!

Also, I would heartily agree with you that, "It needs a bit more editing," however, to quote my husband, Gerald, who so wisely said, "Diana, if you do not quit rewriting, adding and deleting, this book will never get published."

Of course, with any venture, the proof of the pudding is in the eating. I have just in the last two weeks received a report that a lady in Florida, who had gone through a traumatic experience and who even prior to that was an extremely negative individual who was difficult to be around for any period of time, had read the book, and began to apply the principles to her life and today is a happy, positive individual.

She went from bitter to better! This is just one of the many testimonies that we have received of how the book has changed lives.

As to the duplication of two Power Thoughts which are very similar, this was not an accident. Some thoughts can be so impacting in an individual's life that, they are just worth repeating even in the same book!

If your readers would like to be inspired, encouraged and challenged, they can obtain a copy of the book online from Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble.com or ask your local bookstore to order it for you.

Thank you again.

Diana M Sykes

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News about Cayman in the Foreign Press

News about Cayman in the Foreign Press

Tough road for anti-spam bill blamed on Cayman
WASHINGTON, USA According to the Mercury News, Ray Everett-Church, chief privacy officer for ePrivacy Group, an anti-spam company based in Philadelphia, estimates that 100 large companies are responsible for about 75 percent of all the spam on the Internet, some of which use offshore servers, convoluted business structures and have bank accounts in places like the Cayman Islands.

Cayman worse than Russia
MOSCOW, Russia South Africa's News24 reports that, with 628 prisoners for every 100,000 inhabitants, Russia has the world's third highest incarceration rate in the world behind the Cayman Islands and the United States, which has the highest rate of 686, according to a January 2003 study published by the International Center for Prison Studies.

Disbarred lawyer does not have to repay money from Cayman
ORLANDO, USA The Orlando Sentinel reports that a federal judge in Orlando threw out disbarred lawyer F. Lee Bailey's conviction this year for keeping funds claimed by the government from a $7 million trust fund set up in the Cayman Islands after his clients' get-rich-quick scam came under federal investigation.

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Among the colourful pageantry of Pirates Week, Cable & Wireless was named as the overall winner of the 2003 Float Parade.

The parade was among the largest of all Pirates Week Parades, having 40 units in its line-up. The crowds lining the streets of downtown might also have reached record numbers, according to organisers and several long-time attendees.

Thought the skies looked threatening beforehand, ideal weather prevailed, with just enough cloud cover to keep the day cool.

The company presented a very entertaining two-section float. The first section portrayed Cayman of yesterday, complete with Ma and Pa quarrelling over using the backhouse, and the second featured modern telecommunication with a giant cell phone.

Pirates prepared as they arrived at port in Hog Sty Bay

Cable & Wireless also won the General Large Float division by default. Those familiar with the history of the Pirates Week Parade believe it to be the first time that a district float did not win the overall float competition.

Second place overall went to Cayman Carnival, a walking costume group who also won the General Walkers division. Third place overall went to the George Town Heritage Day Committee with their portrayal of Fort George being defended by the home guard. That float also won them first place in the District Category.

Second place in the District category went to the East End Heritage Day Committee for their portrayal of Columbus discovering the Cayman Islands. The Bodden Town Heritage Day Committee took third place in the District Category for their colourful Junkanoo presentation.

Sharon Solomon's Caribbean Queen carnival costume was second in the General Walkers category followed by the Roller Girls of roller derby.

In the Youth and Schools category, the Panoramers Steel Band captured the Large Float division for their Camouflage Pirates presentation. Cayman Prep and High School followed them with their Columbus discovers Cayman presentation. In third place, was Aqua Tae with its swimming and martial arts theme.

St. Ignatius School won the Small Float division of Youth and Schools for their variation of the Columbus discovers

Cayman scenario. In second place was Cayman International School depicting catboats being menaced by pirates. For their undersea presentation, Montessori was awarded third place.

The lone Walking Group in Youth and Schools was St. Matthew's University Schools of Medicine, setting sail with physicians of the future.

Some real crowd-pleasers among the non-competing units were the Mummers Woodland String Band, the Jamaica Military Band and the Fat People.

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Sports

Cayman Rugby Team makes history in Bermuda

Brad Cowdroy gets a lift from Richard Adams and Ron Arscott during a line out.

After eight weeks of nothing but training and focus, a determined Cayman Islands National Rugby Team made history in their away match against Bermuda recently with a 14-0 victory.

The win marked the first time that Cayman rugby had ever beaten Bermuda.
The squad was able to overcome a long two-day trip to Bermuda, having to stay overnight in New York on the Thursday before arriving in Hamilton on the Friday morning.

From the start of the match on Saturday, 18 October the intensity level was high for both teams. For every hit Bermuda had, Cayman had one in return, putting the home team on notice that they were in for a difficult day.

In the eighth minute, scrumhalf Tony Elliot took a penalty kick, but was slightly off target. Three minutes later, compensating for his miss, Tony was successful on another penalty kick from five metres out.

With Cayman at a 3-0 advantage, Bermuda had an opportunity with a penalty of their own, but missed his kick. Shortly later, with another penalty kick from Tony Elliot, Cayman increased its lead to 6-0.

A representative for Bermuda Rugby congradulated the Cayman squad after the match.

In the second half, Bermuda put on some heavy pressure, several times coming near to a try, but Cayman's defense remained strong. In the 58th minute, Bermuda was presented with a great scoring chance, but missed the penalty kick again.

Tony Elliot then countered with yet another penalty kick, putting the Cayman team in the driver's seat with a commanding 9-0 lead.

Bermuda countered with a furious rally, and forced Cayman to make a mistake that put Bermuda over the try line, but a touch judge spotted the player on attack go out, so the score was disallowed.

With one minute remaining in the game, Cayman's Alan Fanagan put an end to any hope for Bermuda by scoring a try for the final margin of victory.

Cayman captain Steve 'Bluey' Hannon was thrilled with his team's performance. "That's the first time we have ever beaten Bermuda, so we're more than happy that we came here and won this one," he said, "We came out here with positive thoughts, definitely. We got a lot of new players in our side, good physical ones, so we knew we had a good chance."

With a big international match success under their belt, the Cayman team will now confidently prepare for matches against the Bahamas, and hopefully Jamaica, and then for a tour against Mexico.

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Full pool leads to swimming waiting list

The continuing success of Cayman's swim programme leaves little room for newcomers to the Lions Pool. The 25-metre pool is filled to capacity from as early as 5:30 in the morning until 8:30 at night, and has resulted in over 70 children having to be put on a waiting list for the Learn-to-Swim programme.

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