Cayman Net Readers' Forum
Discussion Topics

July 2004

All postings during the month (most recent at the top):

• Business staffing applications lag
  • Those of us who have worked in the Cayman Islands in senior management levels in the finance industry are well aware that your average Caymanian is not terribly competent and is not keen on work but does expect to get a large salary for doing as little as possible that he/she can get away with. On the other hand it is very expensive to bring in labour from outside so we land up employing and promoting people who a) should not have been employed in the first place; b) are not really capable of holding supervisory jobs; and c) do not provide the level of service to which international clients expect - Don Lever
  • Pardon me, Mr Lever. There are many expatriates at work in the financial and tourism industry in Cayman who arrived here as green as grass. They did not have a clue what to do on the job. They received on the job training, a luxury that is denied the Caymanian job applicant, who is expected to have a degree and 5 years experience for an entry level job... read more... - Direct Current
  • I would agree with both sides of the argument, but does the government not have in place a quota system that forces employers to employ Caymanians in the workplaces? Does this not suffice? - Expat
• Measured Development plan needed in Cayman
  • Interesting editorial. I am currently building a small cottage out at High Rock. The idea of reviewing development plans in terms of overall benefit to the people of Cayman hit home, as I live in Naples Florida and we have experienced the same type of mega growth in the last twenty years. The building of large houses on small lots with almost no green space means that some day, this wonderful formerly small town will look like Miami. No one in their right mind would want that to happen, but the political folks love the taxes that pour in and love to approve just about any development. Cayman is truly a unique place, but if the local population doesn't eventually exert some control over the process, you will end up with an island that is paved over with hotels and tourist attractions that will drastically change your homeland forever, not always in the positive way you might wish. I look forward to spending some time out at High Rock and East End, and will work at being a good neighbor - The Trapper, Naples, Florida
  • Yes! Yes! It's not too late! The people of Grand Cayman can still exert control over this issue...believe me, there WILL come a time when tourists will no longer spend big money to come, when the island becomes something not too different than anywhere else. I would hate to see this happen to such a rare and special place. As a non-citizen of Cayman I guess I'm limited in what I can do, but my prayers are with the people of Cayman. Protect your heritage and you protect tourism at the same time. More is not better. It's still not too late - Rexanne Evans, Sherman Oaks, CA
  • THANK YOU! Someone finally has it! This is what we have been saying for the last 5 years. Will the "powers that be" heed this warning? Unfortunately, I don't think so. They are too near sighted. We will be saying "We told you so" in the not so distant future - Nancy Peters
  • Whilst these issues are worth commenting upon, you are unfortunately some 20 to 25 years too late. The concept of planned development was needed years ago - before West Bay Road became Main Street, USA - Anonymous
  • Okay, it would have been ideal for folks to have thought this way 25 years ago but people often do not foresee things like this coming. Is the glass half empty or half full? On my last visit to Cayman I still found much of the charm of the island intact, while hotels (yikes! the Ritz Carlton, what a monster) seem to be growing like the flame trees I so love. You know what, it's never too late. People of Cayman, whom I know to have great faith, pray about this issue. Where does it lead you and what do you want for your future? I say it's not too late - Rexanne Evans, Sherman Oaks, CA
  • Don't think this has gone unnoticed by Caymanians. We are alarmed at the uncontrolled development of the Cayman Islands, and indeed we always ask: "Who are we developing for?" We have to import laborers to work on the construction sites and import workers to staff the business place when it’s completed. The buildings rob us of our indigenous trees, etc. The infrastructure becomes more congested and the quality of life in Cayman takes yet another downward turn… all in the name of development... read more... - Juice
• Vote Straight!
  • To the Voting Public of the Cayman Islands: This Election is the most crucial Election the Cayman Islands has ever faced. The outcome of November 17th will determine our future and the fate of our children. Vote wisely and prayerfully... read more... - Observer
  • Vote for the PPM Captain & his hard working crew. Let’s get the good ship "Cayman" back on an even keel and sailing into calm waters once again. I truly fear another 4 years of a UDP Government will wipe out Cayman's chance of a prosperous future. Vote PPM Captain and his crew on November 17th - Direct Current
• ESPN X Games Event Possible In the Cayman Islands
  • Far be it for me to presume to know enough about pop culture's latest fad/sport to berate the X-Games or any of their competitions; however, it seems a bit peculiar to me that the government would on one hand advocate safety and responsibility for our youth while at the same time possibly allowing the X-Games to come here and promote their "higher-risk 'extreme' stunt sports like skateboarding, motorcycle racing and surfing."... read more... - Rip Van Winkle
  • I recently read a comment submitted on this topic and was very offended by it. I am a skateboarder and do not like being compared to a criminal. Skateboarding is dangerous, no doubt, it has many risks; but that’s life isn't it? Everything has risks! "Some grunge punk doing backflips on a bicycle" First of all... doing a back flip on a bicycle takes some real talent and dedication, traits that decent people have - not "grunge punks". People seriously don't understand extreme sports: it’s not just about throwing yourself down a set of stairs or of a 15 ft ledge; it’s about commitment, talent, friendship and fun. Have you ever seen the look on a kids face watching a pro skater ride? It’s probably the most amazing thing they have seen. Bring the X-Games to Cayman! I'm all for it! - Rob Tyler, age 16
  • Regarding Rip Van Winkle’s comment on an X-Games event being held in Cayman: Just because these sports such as skateboarding, inline skating, BMX, etc, are labeled as “extreme” does in no way mean they a have a higher injury risk than other sports. Here are some interesting statistics... read more... - William Verhoeven
  • Referring to the comment by RVW, I don't understand how the X-Games link to driving a "tricked-out car into a wall or telephone pole", or much less Tanya Streeter, or even Cayman Islands swimming, if that's what you're getting at. The two scenes (those of extreme sports and street cars) are radically different and don't relate to each other at all. There is nothing in the X-Games as far as I know about car modifications, even bike modifications. The motorcycles are merely used to get air, not to street race or do anything illegal... read more... - Will
  • The reason why Tanya Streeter does her freediving in the Turks and Caicos has got nothing whatsoever to do with the nature of the sport but results from the stupidity of the Immigration Board in refusing her husband (a non-Caymanian) a work permit, thus effectively exiling Tanya, a Caymanian, from the country of her birth by forcing her to choose between conflicting loyalties. Those who happened to watch the National Geographic program on Tanya may have noticed that she pointedly refused even to mention the Cayman Islands as the place where she was born and brought up. The closest she came to it was “a small Caribbean island.” - Anonymous
• President’s Man pleads to save worldwide dolphins
  • While not a fan of the Bush administration, I was pleased to see that at least one of the 'president's men' feels (as a growing number of rational beings do) that dolphins and other marine mammals are not created for our entertainment, or to make a fast buck for greedy entrepreneurs. I'd like to think that his words might stir some compassion in Cayman's political circles. I'd like to think that. But somehow I think that the lure of the almighty dollar will prove too strong - Terri Beckett
  • The people who are pushing this Dolphin Petting Zoo here on Cayman could obviously care less about the wellbeing of these intelligent animals. It, as with so many other things here on our island, has simply come down to ‘can it make us money?’ At this point, my only hope is that they don't see potential to make money in a Caymanian Petting Zoo - Jerome Bush
  • As a former (10 year) resident of Cayman, I think the last thing it needs is a dolphin attraction. They are for ignorant people who can't be bothered to educate themselves in other ways. If they did they would know how intelligent dolphins are and how cruel it is to keep them caged up. It doesn't matter how big the pens are, it's not the open ocean. I just wonder how much money is finding it's way into McKeeva Bush's pockets. If the dolphin attraction goes ahead, it will be a black mark on Cayman. Why not re-build the Turtle Farm? At least it did some beneficial work - L. Haesler
• Elections Office wants to hear from you
  • Thanks Mr. Desmond. Hopefully this will help to get more of us registered, who are trying to sort out the confusion of the elections law - Caymanian Through and Through
• E Technologies Granted Telecom Licence By ICTA
  • Well! Well! Well! The Puss is out of the Hat! Is there any more dirt to be carried out by Julianna and McKeeva?? Are we to believe that they are not in any way connected with this new company that promises to "Shake up the telecom market?" From Singapore, are they? Well, is that why McKeeva made that trip over there some time ago to have meetings? That trip to Hong Kong was quite fruitful. Lord give us strength to persevere in the face of all this adversity and underhandedness. Anyone who puts pen to paper, to vote for these people in the upcoming election, will be guilty of treason against their country and people, especially our children - Caymanian Through and Through
• New CAL Routes
  • Your article made reference to San Juan, Costa Rica. This should have been San Jose, Costa Rica. San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico - Samuel McField
  • This sounds too much like mashed potatoes to me. For an airline that has to be subsidized, why are they spreading themselves so thin? And these are all Spanish destinations. I love the Spanish language, and some of my dearest friends are Honduran, but don't we already have a king-size problem with this? Give us a break. Panama flights would be worth experimenting with because it would broaden the horizons, and Belize is a beautiful country I am told, but it all sure seems to be "looking for trouble". It may cost them more, going through Miami, but it weeds out a lot of the problems for our immigration department. Naturally the travel agents are happy, because all they are seeing are the $$ (dollar) signs. Doesn't anyone care any more about our way-of-life, that was unique to us, and the reason the tourists started coming in the first place. How short-sighted can people be when greed enters the picture? - Eyes Wide Open Caymanian
  • Wonderful news of the new routes. Cayman is making progress with its routes to Central America - Maria Kunins
• A Brave New World For Cayman Airways
  • It’s a brand new morning for Cayman Airways, and we should all be proud of the fact that we have a team of Caymanian staff, Senior Management, Directors and of course our Honorable LBG dealing with its affairs May God richly bless them all, and may he continue to bless the Cayman Islands - John
• Crane comments made by Hon McKeeva Bush were incorrect
  • Mr. Jefferson, please accept our apologies as we have at one time or another all been ashamed of Hon. McKeeva Bush's ability to place blame on everyone but himself. It is a small man that must find fault in others to make himself feel larger - Jerome Bush
• Chief Immigration Officer now an attorney
  • My heartiest congratulations to Franz Manderson not only on his appointment as Chief Immigration Officer, but especially, his achievement in being admitted to the Cayman Islands Bar. Indeed, as the last paragraph of his Speech says, "the success of a jurisdiction is not determined by its laws and regulations but by the calibre of persons who enforce them". We sure could use some people of integrity, conscience, and impeccable character in our Courts and Government Departments. Hopefully our young men and young women will make this their goal and set better examples for our children and grand-children. We have a lot of work to do - Naomi D. Oyog
• Launch party held for Style 96.5 FM
  • I really hope they start playing better music and start acting a bit more professional soon or they are not going to have a chance to survive against all of the upcoming competition - Jerome Bush
• Cayman Airways new service to Boston, Mass
  • Cayman Airways' new service to Boston not only connects the upscale island area to a major metropolitan city and international travel stopover, like Cayman Airways' service to Chicago, the route allows loyal patrons (most notably, the Harvard Rugby Team) to escape the frigid northeast winter at a critical time of year. I can also see more and more Rugby teams making their way down to Cayman instead of other Caribbean destinations simply because their Rugby Team and Clubhouse are so hospitable and accommodating. Aside from the obvious Miami connection, I can perhaps see Boston rapidly becoming the second most profitable route for Cayman Airways. Just be sure to stock enough of that "mystery rum punch" on board each flight to accommodate the longer rides - Baron Hanson
• Partner For CAL?
  • And would that be the Michael Ryan - Ritz-Carlton group, or the Dart group? Where in the world are we going? As if we didn't know! - Peeping Tom
• There Is Plenty Here For Teenagers To Do
  • Re: Rollerblading may be practised anywhere, but Kings Sports Centre was the first dedicated rollerblading circuit. The facilities at Grand Harbour will add to the wheel sports opportunities.
    Question: are any of the above rollerblading facilities located outdoors? Or are these indoor facilities? Thanks - Bill Montgomery
    • Editor’s note: The facilities in question are all indoor.
• Self-centred Bodden’s time has now come and gone
  • A timely reminder from Mr Jackson. Let’s not forget that Truman Bodden was leader of the government that blocked Britain’s wish to include a Bill of Rights in our constitution in the early 90s and had the temerity to stand up in the LA and tell the country that the procedures for human rights were the same in Cayman as they were in the UK itself – an ‘inexactitude’ breathtaking in its boldness. Don’t believe me or don’t remember? Just check the relevant Hansard. – Long Memory
  • Sorry Mr. Jackson - the "Me, myself, and I" is very much alive in today's party system - namely the LGB - Mr. McKeeva. Obviously you have had your eyes closed all this time - Eyes Wide Open Caymanian
• PPM Secures More 2004 Candidates
  • George Ebanks should run - he is a good man!  I have known George for over 15 years. He is a good father, an outstanding husband and one who keeps his word. Bodden Town and the Cayman Islands would be well represented if we supported him in this election. He is not owned by any special interest and knows the issues of the day. A good speaker too. What a combo! - Carol Ebanks
• Cubans Can Leave Cayman
  • I for one am not satisfied with Mr. Ryan's generic explanation regarding the Cuban's claims as printed in the Washington Post article. Are there no records on a case-by-case basis to discuss? Mr. Ryan's statements have a theoretical basis only. What are the actual facts in this case? His comments could have been made without so much as a single phone call to immigration or any so-called "detention facility" (prison?) officials. Mr. Ryan should at least explain how this matter shall be investigated - by police - a special board of inquiry? Otherwise we are once again looking through a glass darkly. Sadly, "transparency" claims by Government continue to be destitute of sincerity or effort - Detail Oriented
  • Suddenly, the Cubans can leave Cayman? Suddenly, the famous (but still unpublished) Memorandum of Understanding does not apply to Cubans who want to continue their journey? Such a fundamental change of tune following the Washington Post article sounds a little too convenient. So what was happening all this time? Were the Cubans just being told they had to be repatriated in order to collect bribes? - Anonymous
• Cayman Chili Cook Off a sizzling success
  • I find it quite interesting that no one not representing a restaurant ever seems to win or place high in the Chili Cookoff. I wonder if it had anything to do with the fact that individual's chilies were not judged on the same scorecards as the restaurants - Jerome Bush
• White Party benefits Cayman AIDS Foundation
  • I think this is fantastic! I've been waiting to meet Mr. Nunez and ask him the progress on AIDS awareness in Cayman. Also I wanna know where's my invite! Seriously I can't wait to go and support the cause - Selita Ebanks
• 'Deportee' Cars Hurting Dealers
  • I read this article with great concern and, while these dealers do have some relevant concerns, at the end of this discussion there are two issues:
    1. The need for regulation. Some suggestions were made here and consensus should be built around these.
    2. The need for free competition, which will benefit the consumer and the Island... read more... - Brian Brown, Hollywood, Florida
  • This sounds like it could be under the heading of "Anti-Competitive", that terminology that Julianna and the ITCA like to use so much. However, after purchasing several Japanese cars over a period of years for myself, in the Cayman Islands, I definitely decided I didn't want any more of them. I made a wise switch to American-made cars, and never regretted it - Anonymous
  • I appreciate the very pertinent article concerning unrestricted car imports hurting car dealers. I note that there are some who think the present situation is fine, because it’s all in the name of competition. For any competition to be fair, there musty be a level playing field. This is certainly not the case now, where you have established car dealers paying for a Trade & Business License, hiring employees, paying employees' pension and insurance while you have some lone importer who imports cars using his computer from home or the office. Competition is healthy yes, but undermining established businesses that actually benefit society is detrimental to our economy. The result of the established car dealers losing business can be laying off of employees, etc. Think about it - Direct Current
• Cuban Refugee Claims Must Be Addressed
  • Most of us have no doubt that the Washington Post article is true, and the correspondent, like us, thought the matter important enough to report it. My thanks to Cayman Net News, as well as Radio Cayman for reporting it, and it would be unfortunate indeed if Pat Ebanks of the Government Information Office, and the Government, allowed it to be muffled and "killed" without getting to the bottom of it. If we don't have the capabilities to do a thorough investigation, then qualified and trained investigators should be summoned. This is a whole new ball game, and one that is getting worldwide attention. It should not be "brushed under the rug" the way so many wrongdoings by "officials" are handled. It comes under the heading of "rackets" - Eyes Wide Open Caymanian
  • How difficult can it be to investigate this? If what the Prison Director says is true, and the Cubans were released from Northward on the strength of documents from Immigration Dept., just follow the paper trail! Surely it cannot be that difficult to determine from the paperwork exactly which individuals initiated and/or authorised their release. Unless, of course, the documents have mysteriously gone missing - Anonymous
• Three More Radio Stations Approved
  • As a personal friend of Mr. Seymour from college days at the University of Texas at Austin, I am ecstatic to see the success of his business endeavors. Keep it up Seymour! - CW
• New web site recalls good old days
  • This community calendar is a great idea. We have needed it for a long time. I always hear people say that there is nothing to do in Cayman, well now here is a selection of events that is easy to access. They are all in one place - Ciara Sweeney
• Lyndon Martin to appear in Court For Immigration offences
  • I think it is a sad day when the very people who we have entrusted to create and put through our laws end up breaking them themselves. If this is indeed the case then I feel that any MLA's that are found breaking laws be REMOVED from office immediately after being found guilty. It is a farce when people who are the so-called leaders of this country think that they are above the law - Peter Milburn.
• Refugees Claim They Paid Bribe
  • So who got a promotion for this one? The buck got passed real fast -- probably because they were in shock to know this "deal" made the light of day, and in such a worldwide way. Indeed they better investigate this, and then find out how many times this has been repeated with people from other countries. Or will they just sweep this under the rug and give out another big promotion as a reward? Gotcha! - Peeping Tom
  • It is a shame to deny people the opportunity to a better life. We should remember that we praise our seamen, and not one of them went to sea in the type of vessel these poor people are forced to use. To imprison these people is cruel and should not be allowed. As adherents of Christianity? - Silvafoxx
• Leader speaks to the Caribbean on the BBC
  • How can you say you’re independent when you bow down to every little order from England and its EU friends? Independence means making decisions without accepting from England, EU, OECD, USA, FATF, etc. all their pressures. Tell those others to mind their own business - Ralph Rack
• Radio station closes down
  • No wonder I can’t find Ocean on my radio. With all the new radio stations lately I was wondering if they got your dial. Hurry and retune that 95 Greg so I can sit back and listen to some good 70's & 80's classics. Keep up the great music - Craig
• Building More Roads Not The Only Traffic Solution
  • The time has come for both the public and private sector employers to seriously consider flexi-time for their employees.  Why does every one have to work from 9 am to 5 pm? We need various hours of "starting times", so everyone is not on the roads at the same time and also we need various hours of "quitting times" to allow a staggering of the employees on the roads going home in the evenings... read more... - Direct Current
  • Perhaps Cayman should take note of how Bermuda handles the traffic problem. Bermuda does not allow rental cars for tourists. The only thing a tourist can rent is a put-put motorbike. They are all encouraged to take a taxi, small tour van, tour bus, or even a horse and buggy ride to get to their destinations safely. We drive on the left, and for most tourists, this is risky business especially when they don't know where they are going or what to do in a roundabout. The difference between Bermuda and the Cayman Islands is that Bermuda DOES NOT cater to slackness with their laws. My visit to Bermuda some years ago was peaceful and memorable - A Caring Caymanian
  • A good public transportation system would help alleviate our traffic problem, and for the life of me I can't see why we are not investing in one. But we also need the Health Dept to launch a campaign educating people on the benefits of walking/riding to and from work. The Chamber of Commerce could get in on the campaign and assist the employers in giving out rewards to those employees who leave their cars home and walk or cycle in to work. Also, one can promote car pooling... read more... - Direct Current
• No supporter of the present party system
  • Hear, Hear! Truman speaks the truth! I would add another comment though. The "Chief Minister" should NOT be allowed to have any portfolios. Surely everyone can see the danger in this from the current situation where the "Chief Minister" has taken the most important portfolios for himself and is actively involved in real estate and construction - Ray Els
• Government Gets Telecom Licence
  • The government's current provider is Cable & Wireless who would immediately lose their largest customer if the government were to start providing their own service. Also, no matter who has cheaper, better and more reliable service the government is not going to be able to go to them in the future. The best way for the government to lower costs is to open their service needs to real competition. Allowing this license and internal service is just building more government that is doomed to be run poorly and lose money. It is a shame that we waste so much money building more government that is only going to require more money to run - Jerome Bush
• Graduated Driver’s Licences Coming
  • Hats off to the volunteers of MattSafe and the Road Safety organisations in getting the much needed amendments to our Traffic Law. I think of Pat Ebanks, Robert Campbell, Aileen Samuels and others who tirelessly researched road safety issues, particularly the graduated driver’s license issue. The amendments that are being made to the Traffic Law are a direct result of those individuals' research and lobbying of Government officials. Believe me, it took a lot of hard work to bring these much needed amendments to fruition... read more...  - Direct Current
  • I welcome this latest news from Mr Bush. For years, there have been those people in our society who have advocated these amendments that Mr. Bush now deems pressing. MattSafe and the Road Safety organisations have presented many recommendations to Government for a long time now and have had no response... read more... - Observer
  • I feel that this is a move in the right direction. We as Caymanians need to change this by reacting faster. We need to implement this immediately. We can utilise the driver programs by adding them to the school program by starting at age 14 to 15 until graduation. We need to start committing to these procedures and avoid straying away. Make changes now for the youth. Education is the key - Damien P. DaCosta
• Attempted robbery prevented by police
  • You need to tell us the name of the condo for everyone’s protection. Withholding the name is suspicious and causes greater concern - Jay L. Liss
  • I think that the Cayman Islands needs to investigate this more by having an accessible beach patrol unit (life guards, police and crime watch sponsored by the hotels), because tourism is a major part of Cayman’s life style - Damien P. DaCosta
• Get set for the big cook-off
  • I am very disappointed in the results of the chili cook-off this year. We go every year, and this year my family spent 2 hours walking around that event sampling everyone's chili and talking to others doing the same. The three teams that placed made sub par chili and were told so repeatedly by people sampling. The 5 o'clock crew and the Z99/Rooster teams were by far the best. To automatically give it to the teams that came from the restaurants and hotels is both disingenuous and insulting to everyone competing - Jerome Bush
• Fee Levy Angers School Parents
  • This certainly does seem unfair. If the parents were not paying the regular school fees, one could understand withholding the end-of-year reports, but to burden the parents with extra expenses that they may not even want or get the good from, is unconscionable; and more so to withhold the students end-of-year reports etc. because the school couldn't force the parents to pay up for something they didn't agree to. That is really carrying greed to the limit!! And for a Church affiliated school, that is really all the more deplorable - Another Caymanian Parent
  • That’s democracy. The school board is (mostly, I believe) elected by the parents. They decided for the group to pursue a course of action. Individual members of the group don't like the decision and believe they should get special treatment and be excluded from it - JabJab
• Dolphin Facility Delayed, Eight Dolphins Waiting
  • How dare Mr. Crighton insult fellow Caymanians like that to say that "If it was not for Michael Ryan at the Ritz-Carlton… everyone here would have been chewing on bones"? Caymanians may not all be as wealthy as Dale's father, but we come from a heritage of people who have always worked hard to care for their families. Indeed was Dale Crighton including himself and his father in that "chewing on bones" category? Caymanians don't wait for scraps to be thrown to us by the rich and unscrupulous. We work for an honest living, even if it is small. When will all this end? Mr. Crighton says he is willing to wait thirty years to get the dolphin facility going… could we go for sixty years or more? - Eyes Wide Open Caymanian
  • In your article you quote Mr. Crighton saying that the dolphins only work when they want to, is this misquoted or is Mr. Crighton believing the people are foolish enough to believe whatever babble he wishes to feed us. What would be really bizarre is if he actually believed what he said. The dolphins do only work when they want - John Augsbury
  • It is amazing what people will say in order to get what they want or try to, at least. I think that maybe we need something else besides a dolphin attraction here in Cayman. How about a money-making pool which holds politicians and money hogs that seem to litter this island every way you turn. We can all stand outside and throw pennies into the pool and watch them all fight over it. Mrs. Steele summed it up nicely some years ago with the dolphins all on the outside looking at the Government of the day and throwing them food. This would REALLY be unique to the Cayman Islands - Peter Milburn
  • Who is responsible if these parks are not a success? What steps will be taken if this matter becomes relevant? Will there be education programs on the dolphins from the schools for younger Caymanians? Job opportunities? The health of these animals has to be consistent in order for this park to be a success. I believe that this may not be the best thing for Cayman e.g. the Turtle farm - Damien P. DaCosta
• How long will we have to put up with this situation?
  • Mr. Bodden, to arrest a political refugee is a violation human rights. There are other ways of solving this problem. Also, is there really a pattern in this problem? Is this pattern really being repeated so often? Twice maybe, but not so often. Something should be done, I agree. But I don't consider your suggestions to be the best solution; do I read a slight tone of racism? - Tracey
  • Now there's a hoot! Someone is concerned about a serious situation that is escalating, and that old standby of "racism" raises its ugly head. This is not based on "racism". In the first place, who says they are political refugees? That has to be determined by Immigration, and so far most of these Cubans make it clear that they are "transients", looking for a handout, then they are on their way. On their way where? To illegal entry into yet another country, after entering the Cayman Islands illegally. They are no different than the thousands of Mexicans who daily make a scramble to enter the U.S. illegally across the borders. There is a legal way for one and all to apply to enter another country, and honest law-abiding people follow that method every day, while others just force their way in, and involve themselves in criminal activity to get the funds. The Cayman Islands coffers were cleaned out once before because of this situation. If it is encouraged we will be heading that way fast again - Anonymous
• The Cayman Islands System Leads to Political Confusion
  • Excellent Editorial. While the two political parties are busy readying themselves for 17th November it remains to be seen whether or not the electorate has subscribed to the notion of party politics in Cayman. My prediction is that they have not and that this will inevitably lead to a coalition government post the general elections... read more... - Caymanian to the Core
• Beach Sand Coming
  • Bringing in high quality sand is a sound decision that I strongly applaud. I witnessed some of the beach erosion around the Marriott and Regal Beach area. It was severe. When tourists witnessed this it affects the economy of the entire Island when people return home and report the beach problems. This in turn affects all aspects of tourism for the entire island. Thanks for taking this prudent action! - Robert Ellison
  • As a yearly visitor to Seven Mile Beach, I am glad to see the beach replenishment project is finally underway. I hope the government takes sufficient action to protect this area of the beach from further erosion after the sand is replaced - Peter Somerville
• Constitutional position of the Cayman Islands
  • They are just followers and afraid to go independent - they are ready to have RFID chips implanted - just follow Mexico's example - Ralph Rack
  • You are dreaming! It’s time to wake up! Get off the fence and put your brain in gear. The UK and the EU will never give up control. The only way you will determine your future is to be independent. All other options are misleading and foolish - Richard Shanks
• Ministry and Portfolio Funding No Longer Automatic
  • Sounds like a good idea if it can be done without the usual "All's fair in love and war" method that is so prevalent in the Civil Service when someone has the power to say "Yea" or "Nay". How well I remember back in the good old days (?) of the 70's when money was doled out by the quarter, not yearly. One particular year in Cayman Brac, we got our first quarter vote, and my Head of Department in good faith, went over the limit on a very important project that was under way. We did not get ANY funding for the next two quarters because there just wasn't enough revenue for the Votes to be given. At the beginning of the fourth quarter, the then District Commissioner called me with the sad news that there would not be any funding for the fourth quarter. I said "Never mind that, I would just like to get the second quarter to balance the books". That was a hard Christmas for everyone with no money to hire people to clean the roads etc. to get money for their families. In this case it was lack of funds, but what they are talking about now, is withholding funding because the performance of the department don't meet the whims of the "powers that be". Pardon me if I have a suspicious mind - Eyes Wide Open Caymanian
• Cayman Islands Beautification Project Launched
  • How many Caymanians does it take to change a light bulb? Don't talk it to death or meet to have meetings to have meetings, just DO IT! - Caysouth
• Exciting new sand competitions are announced
  • Presumably, if this competition were to be held on Seven Mile Beach, in addition to providing their own shovels, spades, sand sculpting tools and water buckets, entrants would also be required to provide their own sand – Anonymous
• A Contract Between Politicians and Public
  • Another, and dare I say more realistic, suggestion as to the derivation of the word ‘politics’ is to be found in the old joke: namely, that the word ‘politics’ comes from ‘poly’, meaning many, and ‘ticks’ – small-brained, blood-sucking creatures. But, seriously, I respectfully suggest that the contract you allude to between a politician and the voter is unworkable and creates a false expectation. No one candidate can be expected to speak for all of the diverse individual positions taken by the electorate. The politician may, of course, glibly promise to do this, but it is doomed to failure. A more practicable concept is a ‘contract’ whereby the politician sets out his or her position and intentions on a wide range of issues openly and honestly, and I emphasise openly and honestly. If the voter chooses to accept this offer in exchange for his or her vote, then you have a ‘contract’. This is why it is so important that each candidate be required by the electorate and the media to state his or her position on the important issues facing the country - Anonymous
• Tango - Cayman Islands
  • I will come to the Cayman Islands in September to work and would like to know whether there are any places where tango is danced? Please let me know if you know of any such places or are interested in starting a tango group. Many thanks - Hans
• Work Ethic Queried
  • I understand where the comments from both the Hon Roy Bodden and Walling Whittaker come from. But I do not believe that it is in our Caymanian nature to do so. There is a reason that the vast majority of tourist-related jobs go to expats on this island. It is that we simply do not want them... read more... - Jerome Bush
• Mac Criticises Local Radio Call-in Talk Shows In Assembly
  • The Hon McKeeva Bush has shown his stripes again for his dislike of an open press. From publicly insulting reporters, to attempting to persuade people into thinking that the radio shows are not impartial, he has revealed to us time and time again that he believes that there should be little to no negative discussions but about him what-so-ever. My father always told me to be afraid of a politician who doesn’t want you to talk about him because he is probably up to no good. And it would be a shame for the Hon McKeeva Bush to get that reputation too - Jerome Bush
  • I totally agree with Jerome's letter and another thing when are Civil Servants going to be able to speak their minds without fear of intimidation? - P Milburn
  • The local talk shows serve a vital function in our society by providing a forum that allows free, open and public discussion of issues that affect the people of these islands. Politicians would be well advised to harness this forum and use it to the country's advantage (NOT to their personal advantage, as so often happens)... read more... - Direct Current
• New Curves Fitness Centre opens up
  • Would like to know Curves’ web address in the Cayman Islands. Thank you! - Maria Villo
    • Editor’s note: The web address for Curves’ in the Cayman Islands is www.curvesinternational.com. Their email address is curves@candw.ky and their telephone number is (345) 946-7546.
• Obituary: Emil George Hnat
  • I really appreciated this. I met Mr. Hnat and thought highly of him. Joy was a graduating high school classmate of mine and I loved them both dearly. Thank you so much for this article - Susie R. Gray
• Development of the Islands
  • On a recent trip to Grand Cayman, (we've been coming many years) I was struck by the frantic development of the island. I think I appreciate the local perspective that good hospitals, schools and such are welcome and much needed improvements, and of course, the growing tourism industry is very important to many people's livelihoods. But my question is, does anyone have any sense of what's happening to Seven Mile Beach and other areas that are becoming so developed that pretty soon I might as well be anywhere, and making the very long and expensive trip to Grand Cayman will be something to think about?.. read more...  - Rexanne Evans, Sherman Oaks, California
  • Though we have many difficulties living on this island i.e. high electricity rates, gas prices and exorbitant prices in the grocery store, I am confident that there is no better place on earth right now to call home. The Cayman Islands are unique in many ways. Let’s not lose our identity with so many negative and unjust criticisms - Positive Caymanian
  • That is the price of successful tourism. If you are looking to find the Cayman from 25 years ago I suggest you visit the Brac - Jerome Bush
  • In response to J. Bush, tourism is not successful if people do not continue to visit the island. Grand Cayman must remember that it is an expensive destination, the main attraction being that it is a great diving spot. If development continues to affect the quality of the diving, people will simply go elsewhere. That's exactly what I don't want. This is a special, unique place that must strive to hold on to its roots. There must be a way to balance tourism success with the ecology of the island - Rexanne Evans, Sherman Oaks, CA
• CUC Employee Fatally Injured
  • Thank you for your article. We were also privileged to have known him here in British Columbia, Canada. Our sympathy to all his co-workers - Sharon 
• Elections, Cayman Constitution and Human Rights
  • Well written. Thank you, Mr. Ebanks - Jerome Bush
  • I too was shocked by Mr Norberg's statement to the effect that the government ought to be returned even without a November general election. I read the story and thought to myself that this was either a print mistake or that this respected Caymanian citizen has lost his mind... read more... - A Democratic Caymanian
  • Please add my thoughts to the upcoming elections. Too many times I have heard the assembly pass a new law, regulation, amendments etc. which may or not be in the best interest of the Cayman Islands in general. Because we have a two party system usually the one with the majority will get their way regardless of the wishes of the opposition. The house members all need to bear in mind that Cayman comes first, NOT their own selfish egos... read more...  - Peter Milburn
• Show Me Helps Flood Victims
  • Enviame fotos - Jairo Memmbreño
• Taste of Cayman a delicious success
  • Why not have this event in February or March as well so that your winter visitors can enjoy it? Twice a year could never be too much of a good thing. Yum yum! - Kay
• Mary Lawrence Announces Candidacy
  • I hope that everyone understands that McKeeva has a number of reserved or preferred candidates in waiting in the event that his declared UDP candidates don't make it. It is rumoured that Miss Mary and Bernie Bush are allowing themselves to be used in this way. Shame on them! Voters should keep this in the forefront of their minds on November 17 - Edison Bodden
  • Congratulations! Seems like quality folks will be in the fight to determine Cayman's future after all. If only more of this calibre people would enter the campaign, we can really look forward to a very interesting election - Concerned Caymanian
• Natural cures are the simple and very best solution
  • You CAN'T be serious! Peanut oil massages cures arthritis? This is absolutely ridiculous and counterproductive to all the efforts we have made to help those with arthritis. What scares me most is the writer's sentence: "When doctors here told me I had cancer I assured them I did not, because I ate almond seeds vigilantly." Do you know how many people you may have just killed with that statement? ... read more... - Incredulous and Angry
• USA Berates Cayman
  • There is a move afoot. The move is well co-ordinated and will be relentless. The Caymans offer a tax haven. Corporations appear to be the target. Not so. While the amount is large it will be dwarfed by the amount being "sheltered" by private individuals within the next five years. "Individuals" that the US government actually has no authority to tax in the first place. (See www.861.info) This IS the target. Make no mistake about it. For a much larger and more comprehensive review of the genesis of the "money" weapon, go to www.realityzone.com and order your copy of The Creature From Jekyll Island. It's in its 7th or 8th printing since 1991, latest July 2001 and has been acclaimed by select US Congressmen and courageous US bankers for almost a decade - Anon
• NGOs Meet With UN About Self-determination
  • Congratulations to Dennie Warren and Pastor Al Ebanks and the whole group for their initiative, they represented themselves and the Cayman people admirably. This should be food for thought to Caymanians that only Caymanians can speak for us. Depending on strangers to speak for Caymanians is not necessarily in Cayman’s best interest, accepting other people's interpretation sometimes is not what we as a people should do. We should question any proposal that tries to force us in any direction that is detrimental to Cayman's future… now we know that there are more options available to Caymanians on the issue of independence. Not that's what the majority will want, however it's good to know all available options. Self determination is not hard if you know the facts. With that said, let me now ask the general public a question: how come the UK got it so wrong? Why for all these years were we not made aware of all the options available? Supposedly we were being represented during this process! - Derrick Powell
  • What makes you think they got it wrong? Perhaps they said what they meant and meant what they said. That, as far as the UK is concerned, it’s their way or the highway. Wouldn't be the first time anyone has ignored the UN – JabJab
• Ritz-Carlton employment centre open
  • Please can you include the email address as well - Joe
• In defence of the Government’s record
  • Excuse me Cousin, but you are advocating something that is ridiculous as well as unconstitutional. We are all well aware of your affiliation with the UDP and the "well-heeled" group that use money to get what they want! But please don't expect that we are all so ignorant we can't see where this is taking us… To hell on a fast freight train powered by money and greed! There are still some of us who puts God and our country (the Cayman Islands) first before self-aggrandisement - Caymanian Through and Through
  • I guess if my pockets were being filled by proceeds from UDP projects, I would write a letter to the media singing their praises too! Why didn't Mr. Thompson write about the new tourist transportation system that he is introducing to Cayman very shortly? (With UDP's blessings, of course.) And why doesn't he point out that this system will only take bread from taxi drivers' mouths to put in Mr. Thompson's pocket? The new transportation system will only add to our already congested roads, especially in town. How stupid can one get? And Mr. Thompson dares to sing praises of the UDP? Get real. We don't all feel that way about UDP, because we are not all getting our pockets filled - Direct Current
• Cayman's Lost History? Remembering all Cayman's ancestors
  • I saw your article while doing a web search on the West Indian Club. I vaguely remember the Paines from some of our last few visits to Grand Cayman. I first traveled to Grand Cayman in 1963 and stayed at the West Indian Club with my parents, my 2 brothers and my sister... read more... - Sheila FitzGerald
• Former NDC Head Arrested In Canada
  • Food for thought. These people we accept and put in charge of differing agencies in Cayman... who are they, does anybody do background checks on any of them? We may as well put our own people in the positions - at least we know what we are getting - Concerned Caymanian
• The Beauty and Soul of Cayman Is Not Only At Sea
  • I thoroughly agree with what was said here. We come once a year to enjoy the Cayman people, the weather, the beautiful sunsets and the beach. We enjoy talking to the Caymanians. In the evening, we dearly love sitting on the balcony of the condo looking at the stars and listening to the water. This is a beautiful land - Anonymous
  • Oh, so funny to read this article, since I was just having this discussion the other day regarding how islands promote tourism or their lack of promotion. It seems the "honeymooners" or the "jet ski/sailboat picture" just has never really caught my eye while I am on the island. When I think of my past visits of Cayman the first things that come to mind are… floating in the water on Seven Mile Beach, dancing at Royal Palms (capture how spectacular it feels to dance under the stars with young and old combined), watching that incredible sunset, seeing the starfish near the yacht club ( I never saw "real" starfish before), of course Stingray City, and chatting it up with the smiling people of the Cayman Islands. Where else can you sit and have hour-long friendly conversations with complete strangers and come out being friends - not too many places left in this world. Caymanian people are so friendly - show those smiles in your promotions! You don't have to get married or ride a "jet ski" or even be rich to have a wonderful vacation in Cayman Islands and that certainly should be promoted - Traveller
  • The comments and remarks of the editorial are long overdue and at the same time they are very tame and do not accurately reflect the reality. The reality is that the adverts are made by and for the people who stand to gain the most, indeed not john public. The ads and the people who stand to gain the most control the trade, and do so by ensuring that indigenous natives do not get a seat of any merit on their carefully contrived Association. Mind you they respond to any type of criticism with the age-old refrain, look at what we do for the natives; we give them jobs, we provide one or two scholarships, we feed them, we invest la de la la de la and “dis is de tanks" we get. Care should be taken and they should beware for the hand that feeds is exposed and may be bitten when least expected – Offshore J