Times of the Islands Fall 2019
Presents the "soul of the Turks & Caicos Islands" with in-depth features about local people, culture, history, environment, businesses, resorts, restaurants and activities.
Presents the "soul of the Turks & Caicos Islands" with in-depth features about local people, culture, history, environment, businesses, resorts, restaurants and activities.
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TIMES<br />
SAMPLING THE SOUL OF THE TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS FALL <strong>2019</strong> NO. 128<br />
MANGROVE MAGIC<br />
A valuable eco-treasure<br />
TCI IN THE WORLD WARS<br />
German sub attacks<br />
CORAL DISEASE<br />
Applying a cure<br />
OF THE<br />
ISLANDS
H O W D O YO U L I K E Y O U R L U X U R Y ?<br />
EFFORTLESS? OR BRILLIANTLY UNCONVENTIONAL?<br />
THE SHORE CLUB<br />
THE SHORE CLUB<br />
THE PALMS<br />
THE PALMS<br />
THE SHORE CLUB<br />
The refined sophistication <strong>of</strong> The Palms on Grace Bay<br />
Beach, consistently honored by travel publications<br />
for its sense <strong>of</strong> elegance and easy atmosphere. The<br />
savvy chic <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Shore Club, <strong>the</strong> stunning new gamechanger<br />
on Long Bay Beach. Where whimsy rules and<br />
magic awaits around every corner. Each with a style<br />
and a vibe all its own. Both singular destinations, part<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hartling Group’s stellar portfolio <strong>of</strong> luxury resorts<br />
which also includes The Sands at Grace Bay. Your call.<br />
THE COOL SIDE OF CLASSIC<br />
649.946.8666<br />
<strong>the</strong>palmstc.com<br />
WRITE YOUR STORY HERE<br />
649.339.8000<br />
<strong>the</strong>shoreclubtc.com
TURKS & CAICOS<br />
Generation<br />
Everyone<br />
Everything’s Included for Everyone!<br />
2018<br />
2018<br />
More Quality<br />
Inclusions than<br />
any o<strong>the</strong>r Resorts<br />
in <strong>the</strong> World<br />
At Beaches ® Turks & Caicos, everyone can create <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
own perfect vacation. For some, it’s <strong>the</strong> white-sand<br />
beaches and calm waters featuring unlimited land and<br />
water sports. For o<strong>the</strong>rs, it’s <strong>the</strong> awesome 45,000 sq.<br />
ft. waterpark with surf simulator. There’s 5-Star Global<br />
Gourmet TM dining at 21 incredible restaurants, and<br />
non-stop bars and entertainment —and it’s always<br />
included. Even <strong>the</strong> tips, taxes, and Beaches transfers*.<br />
We’ve even added trend-setting food trucks, new live<br />
entertainment, and re-styled accommodations<br />
… making <strong>the</strong> World’s Best even better for<br />
Generation Everyone.<br />
BEACHES.COM in <strong>the</strong> U.S. & Canada: 1-800-BEACHES<br />
In <strong>the</strong> Caribbean: 1-888-BEACHES; In Turks & Caicos 649-946-8000<br />
@beachesresorts<br />
WORLD’S BEST ALL-INCLUSIVE FAMILY RESORTS<br />
21<br />
YEARS IN A ROW AT THE WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS<br />
TM/© <strong>2019</strong> Sesame Workshop<br />
*Airport transfers included. O<strong>the</strong>r transfers may be additional. Beaches ® is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc., is an affiliate <strong>of</strong> Unique Travel Corp., <strong>the</strong> worldwide representative <strong>of</strong> Beaches Resorts.
contents<br />
Departments<br />
6 From <strong>the</strong> Editor<br />
13 Giving Back<br />
Peppajoy for Vets<br />
Photos By Delano Handfield<br />
16 Eye on <strong>the</strong> Sky<br />
It’s All Relative<br />
By Paul Wilkerson<br />
30 Creature Feature<br />
The Perfect Husband: The Lined Seahorse<br />
By Brian Heagney ~ Photos By Sabine Frank,<br />
Humpback Dive Shack, Grand Turk<br />
50 Business<br />
Don’t Worry, I’ve Got This Covered<br />
Story & Photos By John Galleymore<br />
57 New Development<br />
South Bank Launches The Boathouses<br />
72 About <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong>/TCI Map<br />
77 Where to Stay<br />
78 Classified Ads<br />
80 Dining Out<br />
82 Subscription Form<br />
Features<br />
20 A Long Way to Long Bay<br />
By Tim Cotroneo<br />
26 Twenty-Five Years and Counting<br />
TCI Community College Celebrates a Milestone<br />
40 The Magic <strong>of</strong> Mangroves<br />
By Kelly Currington<br />
Photos By Agile LeVin, Visit TCI<br />
TIMES<br />
OF THE<br />
SAMPLING THE SOUL OF THE TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS FALL <strong>2019</strong> NO. 128<br />
ISLANDS<br />
On <strong>the</strong> Cover<br />
Agile LeVin grew up in <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> and has<br />
a keen eye for capturing <strong>the</strong> country’s natural beauty.<br />
This aerial shot depicts kayakers exploring Mangrove<br />
Cay, a very well-known kayaking and paddle boarding<br />
location near Leeward on Providenciales, part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Princess Alexandra Nature Reserve.<br />
To see more <strong>of</strong> Agile’s work, see “The Magic <strong>of</strong><br />
Mangroves” on page 40 and go to visittci.com, where<br />
you can also learn much more about <strong>the</strong> TCI.<br />
Green Pages<br />
32 All is Not Lost . . . Yet<br />
A Chance to Save <strong>the</strong> Coral Reefs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong><br />
36 The Story <strong>of</strong> a Parasite<br />
Black Spot Syndrome<br />
By Hannah Hall<br />
16<br />
Astrolabe<br />
60 TCI in World War I and World War II<br />
Story & Photos By Captain Eric Wilberg<br />
65 One is Silver, <strong>the</strong> O<strong>the</strong>r Gold<br />
By Lisa Turnbow-Talbot<br />
Photos Courtesy Turks & Caicos National<br />
Museum<br />
MARTA MORTON—WWW.HARBOURCLUBVILLAS.COM<br />
4 www.timespub.tc
TurksAndCaicosProperty.com<br />
Windhaven - Long Bay Beachfront<br />
Turks and Caicos investors looking for strong cash flow and a turn key property look no fur<strong>the</strong>r than<br />
Windhaven, Long Bay Beach villas. This 8 bedroom boutique resort real estate <strong>of</strong>fering is situated on 2.23<br />
acres <strong>of</strong> prime Long Bay beachfront land with an incredible 155 ft. <strong>of</strong> pristine white sandy beach frontage.<br />
The entire property has been beautifully designed and impeccably maintained by <strong>the</strong> current owners.<br />
US$7,200,000<br />
Wymara - Grace Bay Beachfront<br />
Wymara Turks & Caicos suite 1201/02/03 is a contemporary 2nd floor, 3 bedroom beachfront condo<br />
on <strong>the</strong> world famous Grace Bay Beach. This spacious 2,543 sq. ft. luxury suite is composed <strong>of</strong> a separate<br />
beachfront one bedroom condo, beachfront studio condo, and an ocean view studio condo. An excellent<br />
investment with strong financial returns. Contact Bernadette Hunt for more information on purchasing.<br />
US$2,500,000<br />
Bernadette Hunt<br />
Cell ~ 649 231 4029 | Tel ~ 649 941 3361<br />
Bernadette@TurksAndCaicosProperty.com<br />
Bernadette has lived in <strong>the</strong> Turks and Caicos<br />
<strong>Islands</strong> for over 21 years and witnessed <strong>the</strong><br />
development and transition <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> islands<br />
into a significant tourist destination. Based<br />
on independent figures her gross transaction<br />
numbers are unrivalled. Bernadette<br />
has listings on Providenciales, Pine Cay,<br />
Ambergris Cay, North and Middle Caicos<br />
and is delighted to work with sellers and<br />
buyers <strong>of</strong> homes, condos, commercial real<br />
estate and vacant undeveloped sites.<br />
Turks and Caicos Property is <strong>the</strong> leading<br />
independent real estate firm in <strong>the</strong> Turks and<br />
Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> with <strong>of</strong>fices located at Ocean<br />
Club West Resort and Ocean Club West<br />
Plaza on <strong>the</strong> Grace Bay Road.<br />
Bernadette’s reputation and success has been<br />
earned over time through her dedication,<br />
enthusiasm and passion for real estate. Her<br />
personal experience as having practiced law<br />
in <strong>the</strong> islands for more than 10 years toge<strong>the</strong>r<br />
with owning and renovating a number <strong>of</strong><br />
properties means she is well-placed to advise<br />
her customers and developers on what to<br />
anticipate in <strong>the</strong> purchasing and construction<br />
process.<br />
Bernadette delights in working in <strong>the</strong> real<br />
estate industry and her humor and energy<br />
make her a pleasure to work with.<br />
Crystal Sands - Sapodilla Bay Beachfront<br />
Crystal Sands Villa is located beachfront in Sapodilla Bay, one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks and Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> most coveted<br />
areas. With its westerly exposure you will enjoy <strong>the</strong> most magical sunsets <strong>the</strong> islands have to <strong>of</strong>fer.<br />
The property has 4 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and incredible beach views. Crystal Sands is<br />
ideal for large ga<strong>the</strong>rings with family and friends and currently operated as a successful vacation rental.<br />
Please contact Bernadette if you would like<br />
to find out more about owning real estate in<br />
<strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>.<br />
US$4,500,000
from <strong>the</strong> editor<br />
COURTESY TURKS & CAICOS REEF FUND<br />
Shaped as if a hand is saying “HELP,” this pillar coral in Grace Bay is<br />
showing signs <strong>of</strong> Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease and will likely be<br />
completely dead within just a few weeks.<br />
www.tcreef.org/donate<br />
HELP!<br />
Our readers are used to seeing an exquisite photo <strong>of</strong> one <strong>of</strong> Turks & Caicos’ natural wonders on this page. There’s no<br />
lack in <strong>the</strong> rest <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> magazine, especially Agile LeVin’s spectacular shots <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> mangroves that line TCI’s shores.<br />
But we had to use this forum to call to your attention <strong>the</strong> tragedy that is facing our reefs.<br />
The 340 miles <strong>of</strong> barrier reef that surround <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> are among <strong>the</strong> best in <strong>the</strong> world, helping<br />
to account for <strong>the</strong> thriving marine life, gorgeous underwater scenery, pristine white sand beaches and luxury tourism-driven<br />
economy.<br />
As you can read on page 32, Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) has made its way to <strong>the</strong> popular reefs <strong>of</strong><br />
West Caicos and Providenciales at a fast-enough rate that it has caused alarm among maritime authorities and recreational<br />
divers alike. It is an issue that needs to be addressed quickly. In Grace Bay, some ancient large pillar corals<br />
and boulder corals are showing signs <strong>of</strong> disease. Without intervention soon, <strong>the</strong>se corals could be lost.<br />
As more research is completed in Florida and elsewhere, treatments are being developed that can be used on<br />
TCI reefs. Fortunately, <strong>the</strong> will to solve this problem is strong; money, manpower and materials are lacking. Please<br />
read more about <strong>the</strong> situation in this issue’s Green Pages and be determined to help via: www.tcreef.org/donate.<br />
Kathy Borsuk, Editor • Claire Parrish, Advertising Manager<br />
timespub@tciway.tc • (649) 431-4788<br />
6 www.timespub.tc
Introducing <strong>the</strong> Boathouses<br />
The Boathouses at South Bank will be conveniently<br />
located on <strong>the</strong> marina waterfront with elevated<br />
water views, most with a private dock keeping<br />
your boat close at hand for when <strong>the</strong> ocean calls.<br />
Cleverly designed to maximize space and light,<br />
each is imbued with a warm, contemporary<br />
aes<strong>the</strong>tic as a 1, 2 or 3 bedroom layout. Managed<br />
by Grace Bay Resorts, <strong>the</strong> Boathouses will <strong>of</strong>fer<br />
<strong>the</strong> perfect balance <strong>of</strong> community, service, views<br />
and space.<br />
Prices starting from $795,000<br />
Register interest today at livesouthbank.com<br />
Developed by <strong>the</strong><br />
Windward Development Company<br />
www.windward.tc<br />
Brand partners:<br />
Managed by:<br />
For more information contact<br />
Nina Siegenthaler at 649.231.0707<br />
Joe Zahm at 649.231.6188<br />
or email: nina@tcso<strong>the</strong>bysrealty.com
FIVE DISTINCT VILLAGES<br />
TO CHOOSE FROM<br />
1. Key West Village 2. Italian Village<br />
2018<br />
2018<br />
THE WORLD’S BEST<br />
IS NOW BETTERTHANEVER<br />
BEACHES VOTED WORLD’S LEADING ALL-INCLUSIVE FAMILY RESORTS<br />
21<br />
YEARS IN A ROW AT THE WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS<br />
Beaches, waterparks, pools—<strong>the</strong>re’s<br />
something for everyone.<br />
MORE QUALITY INCLUSIONS THAN ANY OTHER RESORTS IN THE WORLD
3. Caribbean Village 4. French Village 5. Seaside Village<br />
WHERE EVERYTHING’S<br />
INCLUDED FOR EVERYONE<br />
At Beaches ® Turks & Caicos, everyone can create <strong>the</strong>ir own perfect day. For some, it’s <strong>the</strong><br />
white-sand beaches and calm waters featuring land and water sports. For o<strong>the</strong>rs, it’s <strong>the</strong><br />
awesome 45,000 sq. ft. waterpark with surf simulator. There’s 5-Star Global Gourmet TM<br />
dining at 21 incredible restaurants, and non-stop bars and entertainment —and it’s always<br />
included—tips, taxes and Beaches transfers*, too. We’ve even added trend-setting food trucks,<br />
new live entertainment, and re-styled accommodations … making <strong>the</strong> World’s Best even better.<br />
*Visit www.beaches.com/disclaimers/times<strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong>islandsspring<strong>2019</strong> or call 1-800-SANDALS for important terms and conditions.<br />
Hang out with some real<br />
characters at Beaches.<br />
Discover a whole world <strong>of</strong> cuisine with<br />
5-Star Global Gourmet dining.<br />
TM/© <strong>2019</strong> Sesame Workshop<br />
BEACHES.COM • In <strong>the</strong> U.S. and Canada: 1-800-BEACHES;<br />
In <strong>the</strong> Caribbean: 1-888-BEACHES; In Turks & Caicos: 649-946-8000 or call your Travel Pr<strong>of</strong>essional
THE WORLD’S BEST IS<br />
BETTER<br />
BEACHES VOTED WORLD’S BEST<br />
21<br />
YEARS IN A ROW AT THE WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS<br />
Beaches ® Turks & Caicos has held <strong>the</strong> top spot at <strong>the</strong> World Travel<br />
Awards for two decades by <strong>of</strong>fering families more <strong>of</strong> everything<br />
on <strong>the</strong> world’s best beach. Every land and water sport, an<br />
awe-inspiring waterpark with surf simulator, 5-Star Global<br />
For more information, visit BEACHES.COM<br />
In <strong>the</strong> U.S. and Canada: 1-800-BEACHES;<br />
In <strong>the</strong> Caribbean: 1-888-BEACHES;<br />
Gourmet TM dining at 21 incredible restaurants, and non-stop bars<br />
and entertainment — always included. And now we’ve added<br />
trend-setting food trucks, new live entertainment, and restyled<br />
accommodations … making <strong>the</strong> World’s Best even better.<br />
In Turks & Caicos:649-946-8000<br />
or call your Travel Pr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />
TIPS, TAXES AND BEACHES TRANSFERS* INCLUDED<br />
MORE QUALITY INCLUSIONS THAN ANY OTHER RESORTS IN THE WORLD<br />
TM/© <strong>2019</strong> Sesame Workshop
Five Distinct Villages<br />
to Choose From<br />
1. Key West Village 2. Italian Village 3. Caribbean Village 4. French Village 5. Seaside Village<br />
THANEVER<br />
Beaches Turks & Caicos<br />
is on <strong>the</strong> world’s<br />
#1 BEST BEACH<br />
by tripadvisor ®<br />
*Visit www.beaches.com/disclaimers/times<strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong>islandsspring<strong>2019</strong>btc or call 1-800-BEACHES for important terms and conditions.
TIMES<br />
MANAGING EDITOR<br />
Kathy Borsuk<br />
ADVERTISING MANAGER<br />
Claire Parrish<br />
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS<br />
Kathy Borsuk, Tim Cotroneo, Kelly Currington,<br />
Samuel Forbes, Dr. Hubert Fulford, John Galleymore,<br />
Hannah Hall, Rachel Harvey, Brian Heagney–Humpback Dive<br />
Shack, Jason Henry, Dr. Michael P. Pateman,<br />
Desiree Robinson, SFS CMRS Staff, Lisa Turnbow-Talbot,<br />
TCRF Staff, Captain Eric Wilberg, Paul Wilkerson,<br />
Candianne Williams.<br />
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS<br />
Sean Brady, Alex Brett, Tim Cotroneo, Preston Dickenson,<br />
Franzsika Elmer, Vanessa Forbes-Pateman, Sabine Frank–<br />
Humpback Dive Shack, John Galleymore, Hannah Hall,<br />
Delano Handfield, iStock.com–salamov, Kite Surf TCI, Agile<br />
LeVin–Visit TCI, Marta Morton–Harbour Club Villas, Karen<br />
Neely–Nova Sou<strong>the</strong>astern University,<br />
Dr. Michael P. Pateman, Revell, Barbara Shively,<br />
Turks & Caicos Community College,<br />
Turks & Caicos National Museum, Turks & Caicos Reef<br />
Fund, Captain Eric Wilberg, Candianne Williams.<br />
CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS<br />
Jill Beckingham, Wavey Line Publishing<br />
PRINTING<br />
PF Solutions, Miami, FL<br />
OF THE<br />
ISLANDS<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> ISSN 1017-6853 is<br />
published quarterly by <strong>Times</strong> Publications Ltd.<br />
Copyright © <strong>2019</strong> by <strong>Times</strong> Publications Ltd. All rights reserved<br />
under Universal and Pan American Copyright Conventions.<br />
No part <strong>of</strong> this publication may be<br />
reproduced without written permission.<br />
Subscriptions $28/year; $32/year for<br />
non-U.S. mailing addresses<br />
Submissions We welcome submission <strong>of</strong> articles or photography, but<br />
assume no responsibility for care and return <strong>of</strong> unsolicited material.<br />
Return postage must accompany material if it is to be returned. In no<br />
event shall any writer or photographer subject this magazine to any<br />
claim for holding fees or damage charges on unsolicited material.<br />
While every care has been taken in <strong>the</strong> compilation and reproduction <strong>of</strong><br />
information contained herein to ensure correctness, such information is<br />
subject to change without notice. The publisher accepts no<br />
responsibility for such alterations or for typographical or o<strong>the</strong>r errors.<br />
Business Office<br />
<strong>Times</strong> Publications Ltd., P.O. Box 234,<br />
Lucille Lightbourne Building #1,<br />
Providenciales, Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>, BWI<br />
Tel/Fax 649 941 4788 or 431 4788<br />
Advertising 649 431 7527<br />
E-mail timespub@tciway.tc<br />
Web: www.timespub.tc<br />
12 www.timespub.tc
giving back<br />
From left: USMC Staff Sergeant Tony Ssonko and his wife Jennifer are met by Peppajoy owner Delano<br />
Handfield as winners <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> first Peppajoy Veterans Vacation contest.<br />
Peppajoy for Vets<br />
Local hot sauce entrepreneur shares TCI’s peace with o<strong>the</strong>r veterans.<br />
Photos Courtesy Delano Handfield<br />
In early 2018, local entrepreneur and U.S. army veteran Delano Handfield dreamed up <strong>the</strong> nonpr<strong>of</strong>it project<br />
“Peppajoy for Veterans Vacation.” The concept was to ga<strong>the</strong>r local sponsors to create a Turks & Caicos<br />
all-expense-paid vacation package that would be donated to a deserving veteran and guest <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir choice<br />
through an annual contest draw. The contest was launched on Peppajoy.net.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 13
Blue Hills native Delano Handfield is <strong>the</strong> founder<br />
and owner <strong>of</strong> Peppajoy sauces. He is a U.S. Army veteran<br />
who has been on numerous deployments to war zones,<br />
and understands <strong>the</strong> impact <strong>of</strong> Post-Traumatic Stress<br />
Disorder. He explains, “After returning to my home in <strong>the</strong><br />
Turks & Caicos in 2006, I experienced calm, peace and<br />
serenity for <strong>the</strong> first time since my days in <strong>the</strong> service. I<br />
thought it would be a great idea to share this feeling with<br />
my military bro<strong>the</strong>rs and sisters and hopefully give <strong>the</strong>m<br />
a chance to drop <strong>the</strong>ir guards, even if only for a few days.<br />
The peaceful vibe <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> is <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong>rapeutic medicine needed for many service members<br />
around <strong>the</strong> world.”<br />
“Peppajoy for Veterans Vacation” was Delano’s way<br />
<strong>of</strong> showing appreciation for those who put serving <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
country before <strong>the</strong>ir self. To participate, entrants would<br />
have to submit a short story saying why <strong>the</strong> veteran <strong>the</strong>y<br />
are nominating should win a trip to <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos<br />
<strong>Islands</strong>. Hundreds <strong>of</strong> stories were received throughout<br />
<strong>the</strong> following months. The draw occurred on November<br />
11, 2018. Tony Ssonko (a staff sergeant <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> U.S.<br />
Marine Corps reserves and a New Hampshire police <strong>of</strong>ficer)<br />
was nominated by his wife Jennifer and was <strong>of</strong>ficially<br />
announced as <strong>the</strong> winner on Veteran’s Day. This is <strong>the</strong><br />
story she submitted:<br />
“I’m nominating my husband so we can take this vacation<br />
as our honeymoon. We have been married almost 2 years<br />
and were unable to take a honeymoon due to financial<br />
difficulties after he lost his job. Throughout our 7 1/2<br />
year relationship we have been through a deployment to<br />
Afghanistan, job highs and lows, and dealing with medical<br />
issues. Now that we are back on our feet and he has<br />
worked incredibly hard and achieved his dream job <strong>of</strong><br />
being a police <strong>of</strong>ficer, I feel that he and we deserve to take<br />
time to relax and enjoy time as husband and wife before<br />
planning to start a family next year.”<br />
The couple, who at first were a little skeptical <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
legitimacy <strong>of</strong> this “too good to be true” contest, started<br />
communicating with Delano Handfield and agreed on<br />
some travel dates. The airfare was generously donated by<br />
Provo Travel who also graciously coordinated finding <strong>the</strong><br />
best possible route and booking <strong>the</strong> tickets. The deserving<br />
couple from New Hampshire landed in Providenciales<br />
on April 16, <strong>2019</strong>. They were greeted by Delano, who was<br />
witnessing a long-time dream unfold before his eyes.<br />
They collected a vehicle from Grace Bay Car Rentals<br />
and made a stop at Graceway IGA where <strong>the</strong>y were<br />
From top: Peppajoy contest winners Tony and Jennifer Ssonko sample<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir favorite hot sauce at Da Conch Shack in Blue Hills.<br />
Jennifer and Tony meet Delano Handfield and his fiancé Melissa<br />
Willcocks in front <strong>of</strong> Melissa’s gift store Serene by Mel.<br />
graced with a gift card by <strong>the</strong> local supermarket. They<br />
<strong>the</strong>n proceeded to check in at Grace Shore Villas, a beautiful<br />
property conveniently located in <strong>the</strong> heart <strong>of</strong> Grace<br />
Bay. Owners Kim and Darren Wadden had <strong>of</strong>fered to supply<br />
<strong>the</strong> winning couple with a one-bedroom villa for <strong>the</strong><br />
duration <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir stay. The property <strong>of</strong>fers three pools,<br />
luscious gardens, bicycles and a grilling area—all within<br />
minutes <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> world’s number one beach!<br />
Day two started with a visit to Serene by Mel, a gift<br />
shop that <strong>of</strong>fers handcrafted souvenirs, local artwork<br />
and unique fashion jewelry. The boutique is owned by<br />
Delano’s fiancé Melissa Willcocks, and also serves as an<br />
<strong>of</strong>fice and storefront for Peppajoy’s gourmet products.<br />
14 www.timespub.tc
The couple was presented with some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> famous<br />
sauce, Peppajoy gear and a one-<strong>of</strong>-a-kind TCI map throw.<br />
Gifts were also collected at FOTTAC, which is well known<br />
for its fabulous gift baskets and Bambarra Rum!<br />
Tony and Jen had <strong>the</strong> opportunity to experience some<br />
<strong>of</strong> Providenciales’ favorite restaurants. They had lunch at<br />
delicious eateries such as Jack’s Fountain, Bugaloo’s and<br />
Plunge, located at <strong>the</strong> elegant Palms Resort. They had<br />
dinner at Da Conch Shack, where <strong>the</strong>y enjoyed delicious<br />
Peppajoy wings and some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> best local conch recipes.<br />
On <strong>the</strong>ir second night, <strong>the</strong>y indulged in great food on<br />
<strong>the</strong> deck overlooking Grace Bay Beach at Hemingway’s<br />
on <strong>the</strong> Beach. Dinner number three took place at <strong>the</strong><br />
newly remodeled Las Brisas in spectacular Chalk Sound.<br />
A dinner and evening pass was also provided by <strong>the</strong><br />
all-inclusive resort Club Med Turkoise. Every meal was<br />
donated by <strong>the</strong>se establishments’ generous owners who<br />
are all Peppajoy patrons.<br />
Sponsored activities included a massage for two at<br />
<strong>the</strong> Seven Stars Spa and a boat excursion donated by<br />
Al<strong>the</strong>a and Galmo Williams. The couple was also able<br />
to enjoy o<strong>the</strong>r activities due to a generous cash donation<br />
from USMC veteran Carl Defazio <strong>of</strong> BLU Security.<br />
This vacation <strong>of</strong> a lifetime was enjoyed to <strong>the</strong> fullest<br />
by <strong>the</strong> deserving veteran and his spouse. Tony and Jen<br />
are ever-grateful for <strong>the</strong> opportunity <strong>of</strong> experiencing such<br />
generosity; <strong>the</strong>y have returned home touched beyond<br />
words by <strong>the</strong> kind-hearted people <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos<br />
<strong>Islands</strong> and everyone who made this contest possible!<br />
Peppajoy is looking forward to hosting this contest<br />
annually and has opened <strong>the</strong> contest to Canadian veterans<br />
for year two! Submit your veteran <strong>of</strong> choice via<br />
Peppajoy.net or in person at Serene by Mel for a chance<br />
to win in 2020! The draw for <strong>the</strong> contest will take place<br />
on November 11, <strong>2019</strong>. a<br />
Delano Handfield was inspired to create Peppajoy’s<br />
all-natural gourmet guava pepper sauce in 2010 while<br />
eating at local restaurant Da Conch Shack. The sauce<br />
was such a hit that Delano soon started supplying it to<br />
restaurants throughout <strong>the</strong> TCI.<br />
Today Peppajoy sauce is sold all over <strong>the</strong> world. It<br />
first started being manufactured in <strong>the</strong> USA in 2017 and<br />
is now available to order online at Peppajoy.net. The<br />
sauce is carefully handcrafted using only natural, handpicked<br />
ingredients. It is a versatile product that can be<br />
used for cooking, seasoning, grilling and even in dips.<br />
However, what really gives Peppajoy sauce that extra<br />
something special is Delano’s amazing story.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 15
ISTOCK.COM—SALAMOV
eye on <strong>the</strong> sky<br />
Opposite page: High humidity does have its advantages, including <strong>the</strong> formation <strong>of</strong> dew that <strong>of</strong>fers moisture to plants between rainfalls.<br />
Above: For most TCI visitors, a high dew point means it’s time to head for <strong>the</strong> ocean!<br />
MARTA MORTON—WWW.HARBOURCLUBVILLAS.COM<br />
It’s All Relative<br />
Humidity, dew point and comfort (or discomfort).<br />
By Paul Wilkerson<br />
Millions <strong>of</strong> temperate-climate dwellers have had this thought in <strong>the</strong> warmer months <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> year—“Gosh it<br />
feels so humid out. Yuck!” For people living in <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos, humidity doesn’t seem to bo<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>m<br />
as much, as <strong>the</strong>y are likely acclimatized to <strong>the</strong> conditions. Once you have experienced enough hot and<br />
sultry days, your body naturally will adjust. On <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r hand, travelers to <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>,<br />
especially from drier climates, may be in for quite <strong>the</strong> shock as soon as <strong>the</strong> cabin doors are opened on<br />
<strong>the</strong> air-conditioned aircraft on which <strong>the</strong>y just arrived.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 17
Humidity is a function <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> air temperature and <strong>the</strong><br />
dew point. “Relative humidity” is basically how close <strong>the</strong><br />
air is to 100% saturation. When we have 100% saturation<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> air, <strong>the</strong> temperature and dew point are <strong>the</strong> same.<br />
Any time <strong>the</strong> dew point is less than <strong>the</strong> temperature, you<br />
will see relative humidity values be lower as well.<br />
Confused yet? Let’s talk a bit more about this dew<br />
point temperature. The dew point relates to how much<br />
water vapor is actually in <strong>the</strong> air. Water vapor is <strong>the</strong> gaseous<br />
form <strong>of</strong> water. As <strong>the</strong> dew point rises, so does <strong>the</strong><br />
amount <strong>of</strong> water vapor in <strong>the</strong> air. As dew points decrease,<br />
<strong>the</strong> amount <strong>of</strong> water vapor in <strong>the</strong> air also decreases.<br />
To understand this from a comfort perspective, we<br />
can look at this function in different climates. In <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>Islands</strong>, wind flow is always from <strong>the</strong> water, which transports<br />
moisture over <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong>, contributing to higher<br />
dew point temperatures. Contrast <strong>the</strong> Caribbean climate<br />
against <strong>the</strong> climate <strong>of</strong> western New Mexico and o<strong>the</strong>r high<br />
desert areas.<br />
In Caribbean climates, it is routine to see dew point<br />
temperatures <strong>of</strong> 74º to 82ºF, while air temperatures<br />
hover around 88ºF. As mentioned earlier, travelers will<br />
note upon arrival to TCI that <strong>the</strong> air feels sultry, and to a<br />
degree, wet. Doing activities outside in a Caribbean climate<br />
has a marked effect on <strong>the</strong> body as well. As you<br />
begin to sweat, <strong>the</strong> ability <strong>of</strong> your body to cool itself<br />
is degraded. In order for you to perspire properly and<br />
maintain comfort, it is imperative that your body is able<br />
to get rid <strong>of</strong> heat via perspiration effectively. When <strong>the</strong><br />
air is already highly saturated, your body struggles to<br />
This lizard has <strong>the</strong> right idea for keeping cool.<br />
evaporate and add your perspiration to <strong>the</strong> already moist<br />
environment.<br />
This chart pairs dew point temperatures with comfort level. In Caribbean climates, it is routine to see<br />
dew point temperatures between 74º and 82ºF.<br />
Contrast that with western New Mexico where <strong>the</strong><br />
air temperature may be 93ºF and <strong>the</strong> dew point might<br />
be closer to 30º or 35ºF. Here, <strong>the</strong> air is very dry with<br />
lower amounts <strong>of</strong> water vapor. Just stepping outside in<br />
temperatures in <strong>the</strong> low 90s<br />
is usually still surprisingly<br />
comfortable. Start hiking and<br />
biking, doing any outdoor<br />
activity in this environment,<br />
and again your body will start<br />
to perspire to cool itself down.<br />
But <strong>the</strong>re is a big difference.<br />
Remember that <strong>the</strong> lower <strong>the</strong><br />
dew point, <strong>the</strong> less water vapor<br />
<strong>the</strong>re is in <strong>the</strong> air. As a result,<br />
<strong>the</strong> relatively dry air can efficiently<br />
evaporate sweat from<br />
your body. As this occurs, it<br />
is cooling your body by absorbing<br />
<strong>the</strong> heat via <strong>the</strong> process <strong>of</strong><br />
evaporation. Therefore, when<br />
comparing climates, <strong>the</strong>re are<br />
drastic differences in what <strong>the</strong><br />
MARTA MORTON—WWW.HARBOURCLUBVILLAS.COM<br />
18 www.timespub.tc
perceived comfort level <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> air will be based on geographic<br />
location.<br />
Finally, what makes a big difference in human comfort<br />
or discomfort when it comes to high humidity and<br />
high dew points, is <strong>the</strong> wind. The Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong><br />
are blessed to lie in a great spot, wind-wise. In general,<br />
<strong>the</strong> wind machine is usually on in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong>. While <strong>the</strong><br />
humidity may be high, when <strong>the</strong> winds are up, this will<br />
help with <strong>the</strong> cooling effect on <strong>the</strong> body. Even in a high<br />
humidity environment, <strong>the</strong> wind will evaporate some <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> moisture from your skin as long as <strong>the</strong> wind continues<br />
to blow. At times, <strong>the</strong> wind dies <strong>of</strong>f, especially overnight<br />
and into <strong>the</strong> early morning. It is at <strong>the</strong>se times that it can<br />
be quite uncomfortable, as any perspiration your body<br />
produces will not be effectively removed. That is why it<br />
can literally feel “sticky” in very humid environments.<br />
While <strong>the</strong> air may seem uncomfortable to us, it is<br />
important to know that this high humidity environment<br />
also serves as an important environmental condition for<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong>’ ecology. In <strong>the</strong> evening when <strong>the</strong> winds die<br />
<strong>of</strong>f and <strong>the</strong> air cools, dew sometimes forms on surrounding<br />
plants and o<strong>the</strong>r objects such as cars. This dew does<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer nourishment to plants that it forms on. While <strong>the</strong><br />
dew may be in very small amounts, when this happens<br />
consistently over days or even weeks it can bridge <strong>the</strong><br />
gap until <strong>the</strong> next rain falls.<br />
Comfort and discomfort with regards to humidity levels<br />
is relative to each individual. On your next visit if you<br />
find <strong>the</strong> air uncomfortable, I challenge you to take a look<br />
at <strong>the</strong> flora and fauna and try to remember that it very<br />
well may be thriving thanks to those high dew points and<br />
humidity levels. a<br />
<strong>Times</strong> Kevin_<strong>Times</strong> Kevin 9/18/18 10:51 AM Page 1<br />
Paul Wilkerson is an American meteorologist and tourist<br />
who frequents <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>. Along with<br />
his wife and two daughters, <strong>the</strong> Wilkersons stay actively<br />
engaged with Islanders throughout <strong>the</strong> year with his<br />
Facebook page Turks and Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> Wea<strong>the</strong>r Info.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 19
TIM COTRONEO
feature<br />
Opposite page: From a kiteboarding standpoint, Long Bay Beach had everything you could ask for. This part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> beach fronts <strong>the</strong> luxurious<br />
Shore Club resort property.<br />
Above: Between Hungary and Turks & Caicos, Anett Pasztor’s before-to-after existence took more turns than a kiteboarder performing in gale<br />
force winds.<br />
A Long Way to Long Bay<br />
How one couple’s destiny involved world-class kiteboarding.<br />
By Tim Cotroneo<br />
How does one shift from a corporate banking career in Budapest, Hungary to becoming co-owner <strong>of</strong> a<br />
kiteboarding business located 5,000 miles away in <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>?<br />
If you’re Anett Pasztor, it begins when you say no to ano<strong>the</strong>r managerial change, conduct a life-<br />
changing Internet search, embark on an Ecuador vacation, kiss your husband-to-be at sunset, relocate to<br />
Colombia, give birth to a baby girl, and set up shop on <strong>the</strong> best beach in <strong>the</strong> world for kiteboarding.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 21
TIM COTRONEO<br />
Robert and Anett’s business reputation has grown to <strong>the</strong> point where clients arrive from Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China, India, Chile,<br />
North America and Europe to kiteboard on Long Bay Beach.<br />
For Anett Pasztor, <strong>the</strong>se events were only <strong>the</strong> beginning<br />
<strong>of</strong> her major life changes. Between Hungary and<br />
Turks & Caicos, Pasztor’s before-to-after existence took<br />
more turns than a kiteboarder performing in gale force<br />
winds. Let’s back up to what got Pasztor rolling on a journey<br />
that reads like a romance novel turned best-selling<br />
business book.<br />
New life, new love, new world<br />
In 2008, a <strong>the</strong>n 28-year-old Anett Pasztor was Hungary’s<br />
youngest Deputy Director <strong>of</strong> Corporate Banking. The<br />
world’s economic crisis impacted Pasztor’s business life<br />
to <strong>the</strong> point where she was working 12-hour days under<br />
four different bosses in a year.<br />
Pasztor was called into a meeting and asked if she<br />
could be counted on help support boss number four. “I<br />
was so tired <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> conflict and <strong>the</strong> turmoil. I remember<br />
sighing and <strong>the</strong>n saying NO. Up until that point, I always<br />
felt I could change <strong>the</strong> world. I decided after seven years<br />
in banking I needed something new,” Pasztor said.<br />
Pasztor’s plan was to relax for three months and discover<br />
what to do next, career-wise. But first she needed<br />
to rejuvenate and take part in a bit <strong>of</strong> adventure. Pasztor<br />
decided to learn Spanish, and <strong>the</strong> sport <strong>of</strong> kiteboarding,<br />
Robert and Anett now have two children and three businesses in <strong>the</strong><br />
TCI, including a new school for children opening this fall.<br />
22 www.timespub.tc
Ferry <strong>Fall</strong> 17_Layout 1 8/22/17 12:52 PM Page 1<br />
both during <strong>the</strong> month <strong>of</strong> May. She Googled <strong>the</strong> words<br />
Spanish, kiteboarding, and May. The search results provided<br />
<strong>the</strong> springboard for what would be Pasztor’s new<br />
life, new love, and traveling halfway around <strong>the</strong> world.<br />
Speaking each o<strong>the</strong>r’s language<br />
Pasztor told her mo<strong>the</strong>r that her Spanish-meetskiteboarding<br />
Internet search translated to a vacation<br />
in Ecuador. Pasztor’s always-supportive and somewhat<br />
prophetic parent could only reply, “Please don’t find a<br />
husband in a place that’s so far from home.”<br />
On Pasztor’s third day in Manta, Ecuador, <strong>the</strong> owner<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> kiteboarding school she found on <strong>the</strong> Internet<br />
picked her up at Spanish class and drove to scenic Santa<br />
Marianita Beach. At <strong>the</strong> time Pasztor spoke no Spanish,<br />
and her instructor, Robert Bedoya, spoke no Hungarian.<br />
This initial meeting took place on a Monday. On<br />
Wednesday something happened that Pasztor will never<br />
forget. “We were walking at sunset on this beautiful<br />
beach. Pelicans were flying, <strong>the</strong> sky was this amazing<br />
color, and <strong>the</strong>n we kissed. It was like a scene right out <strong>of</strong><br />
a movie,” Pasztor recalled.<br />
Walkin May2017_Layout 1 5/28/17 5:45 PM Page 1<br />
Letter with a special meaning<br />
Pasztor had always believed in faith, fate, and flow. This<br />
new adventure in Ecuador just felt right. “Something<br />
seemed ‘<strong>of</strong>f’ in my banking career. After I met Robert,<br />
my life suddenly felt easy,” Pasztor said.<br />
As she adapted to her new locale, new language, and<br />
new sport, she became conscious <strong>of</strong> how focused Bedoya<br />
was on his business and <strong>the</strong> future. Pasztor was never one<br />
to shy away from asking direct questions, so during one<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir rides back to <strong>the</strong> city <strong>of</strong> Manta, she asked Robert<br />
if he imagined children in his future. Bedoya’s answer<br />
was unflinching and equally direct. Robert believed that<br />
he would have a boy and a girl. Then he continued with<br />
a remark that Pasztor could only attribute to fate. “I was<br />
startled when Robert said that his children’s names would<br />
start with <strong>the</strong> letter M. This was remarkable, because as a<br />
child I remember carving <strong>the</strong> letter M into my desk. I had<br />
always wondered if this letter had special meaning in my<br />
life,” Pasztor said.<br />
Phenomenal Long Bay<br />
A one month vacation extended to two months and <strong>the</strong>n<br />
continued for two years in Ecuador. In 2010, Pasztor<br />
and Bedoya discussed having a child toge<strong>the</strong>r. Pasztor<br />
became pregnant a month later.<br />
The couple moved to Bedoya’s native Colombia for<br />
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<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 23
<strong>the</strong> birth <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir daughter Maya. For <strong>the</strong> next two years<br />
Robert bounced between Ecuador and Colombia running<br />
his business while Anett stayed at home with <strong>the</strong>ir baby.<br />
A friend <strong>of</strong> Robert’s told him to consider relocating to<br />
<strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>. He said <strong>the</strong> kiteboarding on<br />
Providenciales’ Long Bay Beach was phenomenal. In 2012,<br />
Robert sold his Ecuador business and with little Maya in<br />
tow, <strong>the</strong> couple moved to Providenciales.<br />
Upon arrival, Robert and Anett loved nearly everything<br />
about Turk & Caicos’ most inhabited island. They<br />
discovered a beautiful landscape, it was safe, and it was<br />
a healthy place to raise children.<br />
Rough waves<br />
From a kiteboarding standpoint, Long Bay Beach had<br />
everything you could ask for. All <strong>the</strong> kiteboarding conditions<br />
are as good as it gets. There are shallow water, low<br />
waves, no sharks, sand ra<strong>the</strong>r than rocks, idyllic temperatures,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> winds are steady. “Everyone who comes<br />
here says <strong>the</strong> same thing. The conditions are perfect. The<br />
saying goes that if you can’t learn to kiteboard here, it’s<br />
not for you,” Pasztor said.<br />
The island had a single drawback. “It was really<br />
expensive to get a work permit and operate a business.<br />
We spent every nickel during our first three months on<br />
<strong>the</strong> island. <strong>Times</strong> were pretty rough in <strong>the</strong> beginning,”<br />
Pasztor said.<br />
The reach <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> beach<br />
Robert always believed in buying <strong>the</strong> very best kiteboarding<br />
equipment for his business. He finally was issued a<br />
work permit. After some initially lean times <strong>the</strong> business<br />
started to gain momentum.<br />
In 2017, Robert and Anett bought out <strong>the</strong>ir kiteboarding<br />
business partner. Going solo with Waterplay TCI freed<br />
<strong>the</strong>m up to expand <strong>the</strong>ir business to include private boat<br />
tours, stand up paddleboarding, sailing, and eco-kayaking<br />
excursions. They also opened an indoor playground<br />
for children ages two to twelve called Playland TCI.<br />
Last year Robert added three more kiteboarding<br />
instructors. Kitesurf TCI now also has its own shelter on<br />
Long Bay Beach. Robert and Anett’s kiteboarding business<br />
reputation has grown to <strong>the</strong> point where clients<br />
arrive from Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China, India,<br />
Chile, North America, and Europe.<br />
Robert Bedoya loves that <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos is a healthy, safe place<br />
to raise his children. Teaching <strong>the</strong>m his favorite sport is an added<br />
bonus.<br />
Go with <strong>the</strong> flow<br />
With <strong>the</strong>ir two children, three businesses and Anett even<br />
taking tap dancing lessons, you’d think Pasztor and<br />
24 www.timespub.tc
Bedoya would slow down. “Actually we’re opening up a<br />
new school for children ages six through twelve in <strong>the</strong><br />
fall,” Pasztor said.<br />
When asked how she and Robert find <strong>the</strong> time to<br />
do everything that’s on <strong>the</strong>ir plate, Pasztor smiled and<br />
shrugged. “We just go with <strong>the</strong> flow.” a<br />
For more information about Robert and Anett’s various<br />
business ventures, visit:<br />
www.kitsurftci.com<br />
www.waterplaytci.com<br />
www.playlandtci.com<br />
www.actonacademyturksandcaicos.com<br />
Harbour Club:Layout 1 8/17/16 10:16 AM Page 1<br />
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Dive operators at our dock.<br />
Bonefishing in <strong>the</strong> lake.<br />
Fabulous beaches nearby.<br />
Ideal for couples or groups.<br />
Trip Advisor<br />
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E: harbourclub@tciway.tc<br />
T: 1 649 941 5748<br />
See our website<br />
for details.<br />
www.HARBOURCLUBVILLAS.com<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 25
26 www.timespub.tc<br />
Clockwise from top left: TCICC staff and<br />
guests. VP Samuel Forbes, President Dr.<br />
Hubert Fulford and Academic Dean Dr. John<br />
Mubenwafor. TCICC’s first local Principal Rev.<br />
Julia Williams. TCICC’s first Principal, <strong>the</strong> late<br />
Dr. Jacob Bynoe. Head <strong>of</strong> Faculty Desiree<br />
Robinson, Chairman <strong>of</strong> Board Keno Forbes,<br />
VP Samuel Forbes, Head <strong>of</strong> Faculty Jason<br />
Henry at press conference. Tourism students<br />
in Grand Turk hosting session with primary<br />
School kids. Dr. Fulford speaks at Graduation<br />
2018.
feature<br />
This is <strong>the</strong> entranceway to <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> Community College Grand Turk campus, which opened in mid-2002.<br />
Twenty-five years and counting<br />
Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> Community College celebrates a milestone.<br />
Edited by Desiree Robinson and Jason Henry with contributions made by Dr. Hubert Fulford, Rachel Harvey<br />
and history notes from Samuel Forbes ~ Photos Courtesy Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> Community College<br />
It was a thought that became a dream that is now a reality and 25 years later, <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong><br />
Community College continues to have a positive impact on <strong>the</strong> country. It was in <strong>the</strong> early 1980s that a<br />
group <strong>of</strong> college graduates discussed <strong>the</strong> concept and <strong>the</strong> general view that <strong>the</strong>re should be a tertiary<br />
institution in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> to meet <strong>the</strong> educational needs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> growing population.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 27
1992<br />
It was in 1992 that Hon. Charles Washington Misick <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Progressive National Party stated publicly that it was<br />
<strong>the</strong> TCI Government’s intention to develop a community<br />
college. Up to that time, students would have to study<br />
in regional countries such as Jamaica, <strong>the</strong> Bahamas and<br />
Barbados, but strides were being made in <strong>the</strong> Turks &<br />
Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> that would signal a historical change on<br />
<strong>the</strong> horizon.<br />
Hon. Arabella Smith was responsible for setting up<br />
a task force to conceptualize <strong>the</strong> idea. There were town<br />
hall meetings with <strong>the</strong> public to garner <strong>the</strong>ir views and<br />
suggestions in moving forward. Government realized that<br />
this project would require <strong>the</strong> “buy in” from <strong>the</strong> community<br />
in establishing <strong>the</strong> college.<br />
1993<br />
A feasibility study to ascertain <strong>the</strong> location <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> college<br />
was performed by Mr. Kurt Johansen, Regional Education<br />
Advisor to <strong>the</strong> Organization <strong>of</strong> Eastern Caribbean States.<br />
The late Dr. Jacob Bynoe also completed a study which<br />
provided <strong>the</strong> steps needed for institution’s establishment.<br />
Government ensured that proper consultation would<br />
be paramount for <strong>the</strong> sound establishment <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> TCI<br />
Community College.<br />
1994<br />
This would prove to be a pivotal year for <strong>the</strong> country and<br />
it would mark <strong>the</strong> historical opening <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> college. It<br />
was in 1994 that UTECH President Dr. Alfred Sangster<br />
gave his findings from ano<strong>the</strong>r study that was funded<br />
by <strong>the</strong> Caribbean Development Bank. It revealed that<br />
<strong>the</strong>re was an urgent need for <strong>the</strong> establishment <strong>of</strong> a tertiary<br />
institution in <strong>the</strong> TCI and that Grand Turk should<br />
be <strong>the</strong> administrative centre with a secondary campus in<br />
Providenciales. The campus would be housed in rental<br />
facilities to be transferred to <strong>the</strong> Education Department’s<br />
site.<br />
The Ordinance<br />
It was on September 2, 1994 that <strong>the</strong> ordinance<br />
was passed, establishing <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong><br />
Community College as a statutory body. Ordinance 25 <strong>of</strong><br />
1994 established <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> Community<br />
College (TCICC) and empowered <strong>the</strong> college to grant<br />
diplomas, certificates and o<strong>the</strong>r awards. The college<br />
could <strong>the</strong>n enter into association and affiliation with<br />
universities, colleges or relevant institutions within or<br />
outside <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> country to fulfill its objectives.<br />
On September 18, 1994, <strong>the</strong> TCICC opened under<br />
<strong>the</strong> leadership <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> late Dr. Bynoe with <strong>the</strong> main campus<br />
in Grand Turk at <strong>the</strong> HJ Robinson High School, and<br />
a branch opened in Providenciales at <strong>the</strong> Clement Howell<br />
High School. September 21, 1994 marked <strong>the</strong> inaugural<br />
meeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Board <strong>of</strong> Governors held under <strong>the</strong> chairmanship<br />
<strong>of</strong> Attorney at Law, now QC, Mr. Carlos Simons<br />
and supported by Board Members Mr. Sterlin Garland,<br />
Mr. Glennvans Clarke, Ms. Marjorie Simms and Dr. Rosita<br />
Butterfield. The ex-<strong>of</strong>ficio members present were Mr.<br />
Hartley Coalbrooke, <strong>the</strong>n Financial Secretary, Mrs. Julia<br />
Williams, Permanent Secretary—Education, with Dr. Jacob<br />
Bynoe—First Principal and Hon. Arabella Smith, <strong>the</strong>n<br />
Minister <strong>of</strong> Education.<br />
1995<br />
With a change <strong>of</strong> government in 1995, <strong>the</strong> People’s<br />
Democratic Movement’s Hon. Clarence Selver assumed<br />
<strong>the</strong> position as Minister <strong>of</strong> Education and commissioned<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>ficial opening on March 4, 1995. Headquartered<br />
at Harbour House in Grand Turk, <strong>the</strong> TCICC progressed<br />
to <strong>the</strong> point where it became necessary to facilitate its<br />
growing numbers with <strong>the</strong> opening <strong>of</strong> a second campus<br />
at Butterfield Square in Providenciales.<br />
The Providenciales campus was initially earmarked<br />
as a Hospitality Centre and <strong>the</strong> vehicle to facilitate<br />
<strong>the</strong> burgeoning hospitality and tourism sector <strong>the</strong>re.<br />
Simultaneously, student numbers at <strong>the</strong> Grand Turk campus<br />
at Grand Turk had significantly grown. Hon. Selver,<br />
recognizing <strong>the</strong> need for more space, sought to upgrade<br />
and utilize <strong>the</strong> ex-naval facility at Grand Turk as <strong>the</strong><br />
new campus. It was on May 31, 2002 that <strong>the</strong> current<br />
headquarters for <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> Community<br />
College at Grand Turk was <strong>of</strong>ficially opened and occupied.<br />
Then and now<br />
It was from this beginning that <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong><br />
Community College was bir<strong>the</strong>d to be a beacon in this<br />
country and to provide an opportunity for everyone to<br />
advance. The vision that began all those years ago now<br />
celebrates a quarter <strong>of</strong> a century. Despite challenges,<br />
<strong>the</strong>re is an intentional determination that <strong>the</strong> college will<br />
continue to chart a course that would assist students in<br />
achieving <strong>the</strong>ir educational goals.<br />
The TCICC is accredited by <strong>the</strong> TCI Government’s<br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> Education, Youth, Culture and Library Services;<br />
it is a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Association <strong>of</strong> Caribbean Tertiary<br />
Institutions; a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Caribbean Association<br />
28 www.timespub.tc
<strong>of</strong> Quality Assurance in Education; and a member<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Association <strong>of</strong> Caribbean Higher Education<br />
Administrators.<br />
TCICC celebrates its 25 years <strong>of</strong> existence by giving<br />
kudos to those whose ingenious thoughts and actions<br />
have provided <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> with an institution<br />
<strong>of</strong> which it should be justly proud. Stepping into<br />
any area <strong>of</strong> government, <strong>the</strong> private sector, construction,<br />
aviation, medicine, law, entertainment, commerce and<br />
leadership with its myriad <strong>of</strong> roles, resides a graduate <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> Community College, always<br />
DARING TO ASPIRE and being DETERMINED TO SUCCEED!<br />
In fact, <strong>the</strong> TCICC prides itself as <strong>the</strong> catalyst that<br />
educates <strong>the</strong> whole person and challenges all students to<br />
recognize that a truly educated person is one who seeks<br />
to improve <strong>the</strong> lives <strong>of</strong> o<strong>the</strong>rs, while enhancing <strong>the</strong>ir own<br />
personal growth and development in all facets <strong>of</strong> society.<br />
The college prides itself as being a place where students<br />
can feel capable <strong>of</strong> achieving any goal, working toge<strong>the</strong>r<br />
with fellow students and faculty, in an harmonious environment.<br />
With <strong>the</strong> continued desire to expand its <strong>of</strong>ferings<br />
and <strong>the</strong> quality <strong>of</strong> work and certification, in 2016 <strong>the</strong> college<br />
signed an Article <strong>of</strong> Agreement with <strong>the</strong> Council <strong>of</strong><br />
Community Colleges <strong>of</strong> Jamaica which provided for <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong>fering <strong>of</strong> Bachelor Degrees. The college had already<br />
cemented its relationship with <strong>the</strong> University <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
West Indies (School <strong>of</strong> Education) with <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fering <strong>of</strong> an<br />
Associate Degree in Primary and Secondary Education.<br />
The ordinance giving birth to <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos<br />
<strong>Islands</strong> Community College was amended in 2018, affording<br />
<strong>the</strong> college <strong>the</strong> privilege <strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>fering its own Bachelor<br />
Degrees in Early Childhood Development and Social Work.<br />
In this <strong>the</strong> 25th year, <strong>the</strong> TCI Community College<br />
<strong>of</strong>fers a number <strong>of</strong> Bachelor and Associate Degree programmes,<br />
Certificate Courses and Short Technical/<br />
Vocational Programmes.<br />
The Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> Community College’s<br />
Alumni Association has hundreds <strong>of</strong> students who have<br />
passed through <strong>the</strong> doors <strong>of</strong> this noble institution. The<br />
college will endeavour to continue to blaze a path for<br />
o<strong>the</strong>rs to follow, to make new roads and to work toge<strong>the</strong>r<br />
to build up this country. a<br />
For more information on <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong><br />
Community College, visit tcicc.edu.tc.<br />
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<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 29
creature feature<br />
Although shy and elusive, <strong>the</strong> lined seahorse makes <strong>the</strong> perfect mate: monogamous,<br />
attentive and willing to bear babies.<br />
The Perfect Husband<br />
The lined seahorse Hippocampus erectus<br />
By Brian Heagney, B.Sc Marine Biology ~ Photo By Sabine Frank<br />
He dances with you every morning and he bears <strong>the</strong> kids. If this is <strong>the</strong> case you are probably married to<br />
a seahorse.<br />
Although <strong>the</strong>y inhabit our normal scuba diving depths <strong>of</strong> 40 meters or less, <strong>the</strong> seahorse is a very<br />
uncommon sight. It’s not that <strong>the</strong>se cute little critters aren’t <strong>the</strong>re, it’s just that <strong>the</strong>y are extremely shy<br />
and very cryptic, making <strong>the</strong>m almost impossible for <strong>the</strong> untrained eye to spot. Their shy nature and habit<br />
<strong>of</strong> hiding in nooks and crannies on <strong>the</strong> reef, coupled with <strong>the</strong>ir highly varied colouring (ranging from dull<br />
brown, to black, red, blue, yellow and everything in between) doesn’t make finding <strong>the</strong>m any easier. Using<br />
a prehensile tail, <strong>the</strong>y <strong>of</strong>ten hold onto gorgonians, sponges or seaweed that closely matches <strong>the</strong>ir own<br />
particular hue, which helps <strong>the</strong>m to blend into <strong>the</strong> surrounding environment quite effectively. They can<br />
be easier to find at night, out and about under <strong>the</strong> cover <strong>of</strong> darkness while hiding away from <strong>the</strong> dangers<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> day.<br />
30 www.timespub.tc
Having tiny fins means <strong>the</strong> seahorse’s camouflage is<br />
important for a couple <strong>of</strong> reasons. As <strong>the</strong>y are not <strong>the</strong><br />
best swimmers, <strong>the</strong>y must rely on ambush to catch <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
prey <strong>of</strong> brine shrimps and tiny crustaceans that <strong>the</strong>y suck<br />
up through <strong>the</strong>ir long snout. Being discreet and blending<br />
in means <strong>the</strong>y also avoid getting eaten by larger fish on<br />
<strong>the</strong> reef. This is not <strong>the</strong> type <strong>of</strong> horse that can run away<br />
quickly!<br />
The seahorse’s eyes can move independently <strong>of</strong> each<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r, allowing <strong>the</strong>m to scan 360 degrees <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir watery<br />
realm all <strong>the</strong> time. It’s hard to sneak up on a seahorse!<br />
Luckily <strong>the</strong>ir response to danger is to stay still and simply<br />
mimic <strong>the</strong> substrate by wafting gently from side to side<br />
with <strong>the</strong> motion <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ocean. This is perfect for a photographer.<br />
Since <strong>the</strong>y don’t run away, you could photograph<br />
a seahorse all day long. (However, <strong>the</strong>y are sensitive to<br />
powerful strobe lights on underwater cameras. So please<br />
be courteous, plan your shots carefully and try to take<br />
only a couple <strong>of</strong> shots in a single session with <strong>the</strong>se fragile<br />
and beautiful creatures.)<br />
The lined seahorse is monogamous, partnering for<br />
life with <strong>the</strong> same mate, so if you find one you will normally<br />
find <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r nearby. Each and every morning <strong>the</strong>y<br />
perform a ritual dance reaffirming <strong>the</strong>ir bond with each<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r. You can tell <strong>the</strong> difference between <strong>the</strong> male and<br />
<strong>the</strong> female because <strong>the</strong> male has a brood pouch on his<br />
belly. When <strong>the</strong>se two lovers mate, <strong>the</strong> female sprays her<br />
eggs into <strong>the</strong> male’s brood pouch where <strong>the</strong>y are fertilized<br />
and sealed away safely. The male provides oxygen<br />
to <strong>the</strong> eggs in <strong>the</strong> pouch during gestation by way <strong>of</strong> an<br />
extensive capillary system.<br />
After three weeks, hundreds <strong>of</strong> baby seahorses are<br />
expelled from <strong>the</strong> male’s pouch. Yet <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> hundreds<br />
born, only two can be expected to reach adulthood. The<br />
reef is a dangerous place for a tiny seahorse, ano<strong>the</strong>r reason<br />
<strong>the</strong>y are so difficult to spot. They have a lifespan <strong>of</strong><br />
up to four years and once you have discovered one, you<br />
can normally go back to visit as <strong>the</strong>y don’t move around<br />
much with those tiny fins.<br />
The lined seahorse is also a musician, for on <strong>the</strong> back<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir head <strong>the</strong>y have a special organ called a coronet.<br />
These star shaped organs are unique in appearance to<br />
each individual, like a human’s fingerprint or <strong>the</strong> pattern<br />
on <strong>the</strong> flukes <strong>of</strong> a humpback whale. By moving its head<br />
up and down, <strong>the</strong> seahorse can make a clicking noise with<br />
<strong>the</strong> coronet. During <strong>the</strong> ritual and mating dances, <strong>the</strong><br />
seahorse pair alternate clicks until <strong>the</strong>y embrace. Then<br />
<strong>the</strong>y click in symphony, two clicks become one, and <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
loving bond is streng<strong>the</strong>ned.<br />
Pollution, coastal development and harvesting for<br />
Chinese medicine or ornamental value (dried) means that<br />
<strong>the</strong>se amazing little horse-faced fish, that instantly capture<br />
<strong>the</strong> imagination <strong>of</strong> any diver or snorkeler who has<br />
encountered <strong>the</strong>m in <strong>the</strong> wild, are now considered vulnerable<br />
to <strong>the</strong> threat <strong>of</strong> extinction. If you see one while<br />
diving in <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>, take time to cherish<br />
<strong>the</strong> moment.<br />
By continuing to support <strong>the</strong> “Beautiful by Nature”<br />
motto <strong>of</strong> this country and protecting our environment,<br />
we will hopefully have <strong>the</strong>se wonderful little examples<br />
<strong>of</strong> marine biodiversity here for future generations. Don’t<br />
litter on <strong>the</strong> land, on <strong>the</strong> beach or in <strong>the</strong> sea, to keep <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
local home clean and free. a<br />
A native <strong>of</strong> Ireland, Brian moved to <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos<br />
with his wife Sabine in 2016 where <strong>the</strong>y opened <strong>the</strong><br />
Humpback Dive Shack on Grand Turk. Brian received his<br />
degree in Marine Biology from <strong>the</strong> Queens University <strong>of</strong><br />
Belfast in 2001 and has been traveling <strong>the</strong> globe as a<br />
PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer and underwater photographer<br />
since 2003. He holds an additional qualification<br />
in Tropical Habitat Conservation, is a certified whale and<br />
dolphin guide, a qualified boat captain and a self-taught<br />
outboard engine mechanic.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 31
green pages<br />
newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> department <strong>of</strong> environment & coastal resources<br />
head <strong>of</strong>fice: church folly, grand turk, tel 649 946 2801 • fax 649 946 1895<br />
• astwood street, south caicos, tel 649 946 3306 • fax 946 3710<br />
• national environmental centre, lower bight road, providenciales<br />
parks division, tel 649 941 5122 • fax 649 946 4793<br />
fisheries division, tel 649 946 4017 • fax 649 946 4793<br />
email environment@gov.tc or dema.tci@gmail.com • web https://www.gov.tc/decr/<br />
BARBARA SHIVELY<br />
This image <strong>of</strong> one <strong>of</strong> TCI’s healthy stands <strong>of</strong> pillar coral shows how much we have to lose if SCTLD is not quickly controlled or eradicated.<br />
All is Not Lost . . . Yet<br />
A chance to save <strong>the</strong> coral reefs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>.<br />
In <strong>the</strong> Summer <strong>2019</strong> issue <strong>of</strong> <strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong>, pr<strong>of</strong>essors from <strong>the</strong> South Caicos School for Field<br />
Studies Center for Marine Resource Studies (SFS CMFS) talked about a new and emerging threat to <strong>the</strong><br />
coral reefs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>. They first noticed it in South Caicos in early <strong>2019</strong>. Since <strong>the</strong>n,<br />
Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) has made its way to <strong>the</strong> popular reefs <strong>of</strong> West Caicos and<br />
Providenciales at a fast-enough rate that it has caused alarm among maritime authorities and recreational<br />
divers alike.<br />
By <strong>the</strong> Staff <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos Reef Fund (TCRF)<br />
and <strong>the</strong> School for Field Studies Center for Marine Resource Studies (SFS CMRS)<br />
32 www.timespub.tc
green pages newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> department <strong>of</strong> environment & coastal resources<br />
This disturbing image shows <strong>the</strong> rapidity with which Stony Coral Tissue Loss disease destroys coral.<br />
ALEX BRETT<br />
This disease was first discovered <strong>of</strong>f <strong>the</strong> coast <strong>of</strong><br />
Florida in 2014. Over <strong>the</strong> past five years it has spread<br />
rapidly up and down <strong>the</strong> Atlantic coast <strong>of</strong> Florida and well<br />
into <strong>the</strong> Florida Keys. It is a devastating disease affecting<br />
20 species <strong>of</strong> very slow-growing corals that are <strong>the</strong> foundation<br />
<strong>of</strong> many coral reef systems. In some coral species<br />
monitored in Florida, <strong>the</strong> disease reportedly had an 80%<br />
mortality rate.<br />
The cause <strong>of</strong> this disease is unknown, but is suspected<br />
to be bacterial. The troublesome thing about<br />
bacterial diseases is that <strong>the</strong>y can be easily transferred<br />
from one area to ano<strong>the</strong>r via currents, marine life and<br />
even by divers picking up <strong>the</strong> disease’s causative agent<br />
on <strong>the</strong>ir dive gear and spreading it by using that same<br />
gear on o<strong>the</strong>r sites where <strong>the</strong> disease has possibly not yet<br />
been observed.<br />
In late May <strong>2019</strong>, Turks & Caicos Reef Fund volunteer<br />
divers observed its presence on <strong>the</strong> sou<strong>the</strong>rn-most reefs<br />
<strong>of</strong> West Caicos. Within less than six weeks it had spread<br />
northward and is now observed at sites all along <strong>the</strong> West<br />
Caicos Reef. It has also spread to <strong>the</strong> reefs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> North<br />
West Point area <strong>of</strong> Providenciales and has now been con-<br />
firmed as present on dive sites on <strong>the</strong> north shore <strong>of</strong><br />
Providenciales—Grace Bay.<br />
The rapidity <strong>of</strong> its spread and <strong>the</strong> high mortality rate<br />
has put <strong>the</strong> coral reefs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> at<br />
a high risk <strong>of</strong> severe damage that could take hundreds<br />
<strong>of</strong> years, if ever, to repair. This is undeniable when one<br />
looks at what has happened in Florida due to this coral<br />
crisis.<br />
However, and this is <strong>the</strong> important part, all is not<br />
lost. At least not yet. The TCI is not Florida. Our waters<br />
are cleaner, our corals are more varied, more prevalent,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> general health <strong>of</strong> our reef tract pre-disease is<br />
significantly better than Florida’s. Yes, this is an issue<br />
that needs to be addressed quickly, but our water quality<br />
and past resilience give hope to <strong>the</strong> TCI’s reef as long as<br />
we can get ahead <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> disease. Stony Coral Tissue Loss<br />
Disease was only named in <strong>the</strong> last couple <strong>of</strong> years; it<br />
took almost three years <strong>of</strong> Florida’s reef being affected<br />
before any type <strong>of</strong> intervention or rescue started. They<br />
waited too long. Their unfortunate loss however, has<br />
given us and o<strong>the</strong>r Caribbean countries a head-start on<br />
saving our own reefs.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 33
green pages newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> department <strong>of</strong> environment & coastal resources<br />
KAREN NEELY–NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY<br />
On August 1–2, <strong>2019</strong>, a learning exchange was<br />
hosted by MPA Connect (an initiative <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Gulf and<br />
Caribbean Fisheries Institute in partnership with <strong>the</strong><br />
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Coral<br />
Reef Conservation Program). Representatives from 18<br />
countries including TCI ga<strong>the</strong>red toge<strong>the</strong>r in Key West<br />
to discuss <strong>the</strong> disease, what we know about it and what<br />
treatments have been tried and tested. Having this information<br />
shared by Florida’s scientists has given us a real<br />
advantage at possible disease control.<br />
Concurrently, <strong>the</strong> rapidity with which we are reacting<br />
here in <strong>the</strong> TCI and how early we’ve started monitoring<br />
and collecting data could be <strong>of</strong> potential benefit to<br />
<strong>the</strong> overall understanding <strong>of</strong> SCTLD and how it spreads<br />
through different colonies. We have species here that<br />
became rare or unseen in Florida long before <strong>the</strong> arrival<br />
<strong>of</strong> SCTLD. Researchers <strong>the</strong>re are now looking to us to<br />
help determine when in <strong>the</strong> disease outbreak timeline<br />
certain corals are affected. Increased awareness and<br />
international communication and cooperation between<br />
countries in <strong>the</strong> region is perhaps <strong>the</strong> only positive this<br />
disease has brought, but it is one none<strong>the</strong>less.<br />
While <strong>the</strong> situation is urgent, it is not too late to save<br />
this incredibly important ecosystem. Corals are resilient<br />
if given <strong>the</strong> chance and <strong>the</strong> enabling conditions for <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
growth and survival. The key is reducing local stressors<br />
to support reproduction, growth, and survival.<br />
Researchers in Florida have experimented with several<br />
different interventions in an effort to stop <strong>the</strong> spread<br />
<strong>of</strong> SCTLD on <strong>the</strong>ir reefs. Over <strong>the</strong> past couple <strong>of</strong> years,<br />
<strong>the</strong>y’ve collected results and it seems that <strong>the</strong> best<br />
treatment practices for dealing with SCTLD is an amoxicillin-based<br />
treatment through strategic, small-scale<br />
application. Research shows that this treatment approach<br />
can be 80% effective in stopping <strong>the</strong> progression <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
disease across a coral colony.<br />
Unfortunately, <strong>the</strong> treatment must be administered<br />
on a coral-head-by-coral-head basis—it is not one that<br />
can be easily administered to a section <strong>of</strong> coral reef. The<br />
initial treatment approach was to select an infected coral<br />
head and treat it individually by cutting a “firebreak”<br />
using ei<strong>the</strong>r a hammer and chisel or an underwater angle<br />
grinder (yes, <strong>the</strong>y do make those) along <strong>the</strong> margin<br />
between diseased and healthy tissue. The amoxicillin,<br />
At left: The first image shows an infected coral head before treatment;<br />
<strong>the</strong> second shows <strong>the</strong> treatment applied and <strong>the</strong> bottom photo shows<br />
<strong>the</strong> disease progression stopped two months later.<br />
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green pages newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> department <strong>of</strong> environment & coastal resources<br />
Divers apply <strong>the</strong> amoxicillin-based treatment to a SCTLD-infected coral head.<br />
KAREN NEELY–NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY<br />
which has been premixed in very small doses into a<br />
delivery base such as shea butter and loaded into a ca<strong>the</strong>ter-tipped<br />
syringe, is <strong>the</strong>n applied into <strong>the</strong> groove <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
firebreak. If necessary, a small amount <strong>of</strong> modeling clay<br />
can be used to keep <strong>the</strong> treatment base in place.More<br />
recently, <strong>the</strong> Florida researchers have found that cutting<br />
<strong>the</strong> firebreak may not be necessary and simply applying<br />
<strong>the</strong> antibiotic treatment to <strong>the</strong> disease margin may be<br />
adequate. Representatives from <strong>the</strong> DECR and TCRF were<br />
shown how and given <strong>the</strong> opportunity to apply <strong>the</strong> treatment<br />
<strong>the</strong>mselves during <strong>the</strong> August workshop.<br />
DECR, TCRF and SFS CMRS have started training team<br />
leaders and volunteer divers in this treatment process.<br />
We expect to have divers in <strong>the</strong> water monitoring and<br />
treating several days each week until SCTLD is controlled,<br />
or better yet, eliminated. But we have to act now. As more<br />
research is completed in Florida and elsewhere, any<br />
improvements in <strong>the</strong> treatment approach will be incorporated<br />
in <strong>the</strong> best practices used on TCI reefs.<br />
Because <strong>the</strong> treatment approach is on a coral-head-bycoral-head<br />
basis and each treatment is time consuming,<br />
it will be an expensive and labor-intensive fight. If we<br />
want to save <strong>the</strong> reefs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>, we<br />
have little choice but to start implementing this treatment<br />
approach on our reefs immediately. TCRF has reached out<br />
to local businesses and individuals in an effort to raise<br />
money to supplement <strong>the</strong> TCI Government’s investment<br />
in this effort and to have divers on <strong>the</strong> reefs monitoring<br />
<strong>the</strong> spread <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> disease and treating affected coral<br />
heads, but more funding is needed if we are to be successful<br />
in saving <strong>the</strong> TCI reefs. Funding is needed to pay<br />
for a project manager to oversee <strong>the</strong> work, boat use and<br />
fuel, supplies (amoxicillin, shea butter, syringes, gloves,<br />
etc).<br />
If you want to help, please go to www.tcreef.org/<br />
donate to contribute to <strong>the</strong> cause! a<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 35
green pages newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> department <strong>of</strong> environment & coastal resources<br />
HANNAH HALL<br />
HANNAH HALL<br />
FRANZISKA ELMER<br />
Clockwise from top: An uninfected ocean surgeonfish (Acanthurus bahianus/tractus) swims along a coral reef. This ocean surgeonfish displays<br />
a single black spot, while <strong>the</strong> next fish has progressed to multiple black spots. Finally, this last image shows a highly infected ocean<br />
surgeonfish swimming along <strong>the</strong> ocean floor.<br />
FRANZISKA ELMER<br />
The Story <strong>of</strong> a Parasite<br />
Black Spot Syndrome is a bane to reef fish.<br />
By Hannah Hall<br />
Between <strong>the</strong> white sandy beaches and <strong>the</strong> colorful coral reefs, <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> provide beauty<br />
above and below <strong>the</strong> water. Tourists come from all over <strong>the</strong> world to visit and enjoy spending time soaking<br />
up <strong>the</strong> sun. The warm, fluorescent-blue waters provide a suitable habitat for many marine species<br />
including fish, corals, and, unfortunately, even parasites.<br />
High aquatic parasite diversity near <strong>the</strong> equator makes <strong>the</strong> Caribbean a hotspot for parasite infections<br />
in reef fishes. Parasitism involves a relationship between two individuals, a host and a parasite. The parasite<br />
benefits from <strong>the</strong> host, while <strong>the</strong> host is negatively affected by <strong>the</strong> presence <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> parasite.<br />
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green pages newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> department <strong>of</strong> environment & coastal resources<br />
Like most animals, parasites come in many shapes<br />
and sizes. Every parasite has its own unique strategies<br />
for improving its fitness and survival. For example, some<br />
species hitch a ride on <strong>the</strong> outside <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir host, some are<br />
consumed by <strong>the</strong> host, and o<strong>the</strong>rs can burrow inside <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> host directly through <strong>the</strong> skin.<br />
The goal for all living things is to survive. Organisms<br />
require a specific amount <strong>of</strong> energy to maintain <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
survival, without it <strong>the</strong>y would not able to reproduce,<br />
forage, or evade predators. Most living things, including<br />
humans, must actively search for food to supply <strong>the</strong>m<br />
with enough energy to survive. Parasites, on <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
hand, are not required to regularly seek out food. Ra<strong>the</strong>r,<br />
once <strong>the</strong>y have chosen a host, <strong>the</strong> parasite can benefit<br />
from it directly. This allows <strong>the</strong> parasite to sit back, relax<br />
and focus on reproduction while <strong>the</strong>ir host does all <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
work to provide <strong>the</strong>m with a consistent influx <strong>of</strong> energy.<br />
Therefore, parasites <strong>of</strong>ten want <strong>the</strong>ir host to succeed<br />
because in turn, <strong>the</strong>y are provided with lasting energy.<br />
Though <strong>of</strong>ten underestimated due to <strong>the</strong>ir general<br />
small size, parasites are incredibly resourceful. Certain<br />
parasites even have a superpower that many humans<br />
crave—mind control! Some parasites can alter <strong>the</strong> behavior<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir fish host to make <strong>the</strong>m swim closer to <strong>the</strong><br />
surface, increasing <strong>the</strong> parasites’ chances <strong>of</strong> being spotted<br />
by <strong>the</strong>ir final host, i.e. a predatory bird. Ano<strong>the</strong>r change in<br />
behavior that is seen in infected individuals is fewer stops<br />
at “cleaning stations,” locations on a reef where small fish<br />
eat parasites <strong>of</strong>f <strong>of</strong> larger fish. Some infected individuals<br />
have also displayed increased time spent foraging in<br />
order to consume enough energy to maintain <strong>the</strong>ir survival<br />
while hosting an enervating parasite.<br />
A host changing its foraging behavior allows it to survive<br />
with a parasite, but it does come at a cost. Often,<br />
when <strong>the</strong> host individual must spend more time foraging<br />
to ensure it has enough energy for itself and its inhabitant,<br />
less energy is spent on o<strong>the</strong>r important activities<br />
such as reproduction and evading predators. If <strong>the</strong> host<br />
is not able to collect enough food to supply itself and <strong>the</strong><br />
parasite with ample energy, <strong>the</strong> host may begin to exhibit<br />
“tired” behavior. This lack <strong>of</strong> energy can lead to reduced<br />
swimming speeds and maneuverability, fur<strong>the</strong>r decreasing<br />
its ability to avoid predators or outcompete o<strong>the</strong>rs for<br />
food. Thus, <strong>the</strong> parasite-host manipulation proves quite<br />
complex in order to ensure that both <strong>the</strong> parasite and<br />
host are able to survive.<br />
A SFS student videotapes an ocean surgeonfish for later analysis.<br />
Parasites that manipulate <strong>the</strong>ir host’s behavior are not<br />
uncommon in aquatic ecosystems. A trematode infects<br />
aquatic species such as mollusks and fish and is a very<br />
common example <strong>of</strong> a behavior-altering parasite. They<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten have a multi-host lifecycle in which <strong>the</strong>y begin with<br />
an intermediate host (such as a marine snail), followed<br />
by a second intermediate host (reef fish), before reaching<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir final, tertiary host (predatory birds). This type <strong>of</strong><br />
lifecycle gives <strong>the</strong> parasite time to grow and reproduce in<br />
<strong>the</strong> water before moving on to a higher energy providing<br />
host.<br />
One particular trematode parasite has been catching<br />
<strong>the</strong> attention <strong>of</strong> scientists throughout <strong>the</strong> Caribbean,<br />
Scaphanocephalus expansus. This is a small (3–5mm<br />
diameter) parasite that burrows into <strong>the</strong> skin <strong>of</strong> its fish<br />
host. Once S. expansus has burrowed within a fish, it<br />
leaves a distinct black spot-like marking on <strong>the</strong> skin or fin<br />
ray <strong>of</strong> its fish host. Due to <strong>the</strong>se unique markings, infections<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> S. expansus parasite have been referred to<br />
as Black Spot Syndrome (BSS). Unfortunately for <strong>the</strong> host,<br />
if a parasite is plentiful in a given region or ecosystem,<br />
several parasites can infect a single individual, leaving it<br />
with multiple black spots. Once burrowed, S. expansus<br />
generally does not relocate unless its host dies, or it is<br />
consumed by a terminal host. Luckily for us, S. expansus<br />
is not transferrable from fish to humans.<br />
HANNAH HALL<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 37
green pages newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> department <strong>of</strong> environment & coastal resources<br />
HANNAH HALL<br />
A School for Field Studies Center for Marine Resource Studies student on South Caicos lays down transect line to assess <strong>the</strong> habitat below.<br />
An individual S. expansus parasite <strong>of</strong>ten finds an end<br />
to its journey in <strong>the</strong> mighty osprey (Pandion haliaetus<br />
ridgwayi). As <strong>the</strong> tertiary host, <strong>the</strong> osprey is <strong>the</strong> parasite’s<br />
final destination where it can feed <strong>of</strong>f <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> energy <strong>of</strong> this<br />
resourceful host. However, <strong>the</strong> cycle does not stop <strong>the</strong>re.<br />
As <strong>the</strong> parasite sexually reproduces inside <strong>of</strong> an osprey,<br />
<strong>the</strong> infected osprey can spread <strong>the</strong> parasite’s eggs into<br />
<strong>the</strong> water through its waste. The waste can <strong>the</strong>n lead to<br />
infection in an initial host, likely a snail, <strong>the</strong>reby allowing<br />
<strong>the</strong> parasite to re-enter <strong>the</strong> coral reef ecosystem, starting<br />
<strong>the</strong> seemingly never-ending cycle over again.<br />
Black spot syndrome has been seen in a variety <strong>of</strong><br />
reef fishes, yet overwhelming, <strong>the</strong> ocean surgeonfish<br />
(Acanthurus bahianus/tractus) has been <strong>the</strong> most highly<br />
infected species. The exact reason for this is unknown,<br />
though it has been speculated that <strong>the</strong>ir high population<br />
numbers, high abundance in shallow water, and/or <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
tendency to stay near <strong>the</strong> ocean floor where <strong>the</strong>y are more<br />
likely to come into contact with <strong>the</strong> free swimming form<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> parasite could lead to <strong>the</strong>ir higher infection rates.<br />
From <strong>the</strong> parasite’s perspective, <strong>the</strong> ocean surgeonfish<br />
can be seen as a beneficial intermediate host due to <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
shallow depth preference, frequent foraging behaviors,<br />
and <strong>the</strong>ir light coloration that provides greater contrast<br />
with <strong>the</strong> black spots, which may increase avian predation.<br />
At <strong>the</strong> School for Field Studies Center for Marine<br />
Resource Studies (SFS CMRS) on South Caicos, we have<br />
been conducting research to fur<strong>the</strong>r understand <strong>the</strong><br />
behavioral changes that S. expansus imposes on <strong>the</strong><br />
ocean surgeonfish as part <strong>of</strong> our reef monitoring program.<br />
Through our research, we have found that individuals<br />
infected with BSS forage less than uninfected individuals.<br />
In o<strong>the</strong>r words, <strong>the</strong> parasite that causes Black Spot<br />
Syndrome is likely manipulating <strong>the</strong> ocean surgeonfish<br />
to eat less frequently. Infected individuals also displayed<br />
fewer attempts to remove <strong>the</strong> parasite(s) from its body.<br />
The knowledge that <strong>the</strong>se results provide us is very<br />
important. Ocean surgeonfish are an extremely important<br />
species in our reef ecosystems for controlling algae<br />
growth. However, <strong>the</strong> ocean surgeonfish is simply an<br />
example <strong>of</strong> one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> many types <strong>of</strong> fish this parasite<br />
can affect. Black Spot Syndrome has also been observed<br />
38 www.timespub.tc
green pages newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> department <strong>of</strong> environment & coastal resources<br />
in bar jacks, snapper, grouper and parrotfish. These very<br />
different species are extremely important for local fisherman<br />
and <strong>the</strong>y play an important role in <strong>the</strong> health <strong>of</strong> coral<br />
reef ecosystems.<br />
Black Spot Syndrome has been prevalent in <strong>the</strong><br />
Caribbean for many years, as evidenced by photographs<br />
showing fish with <strong>the</strong> characteristic black markings in<br />
1985. It is also widespread throughout <strong>the</strong> Caribbean<br />
islands, as it has been photographed on reefs from at<br />
least 14 different countries.<br />
Despite <strong>the</strong> long history and prevalence <strong>of</strong> this parasite,<br />
little is known about its full life cycle and how<br />
exactly it impacts its host’s behavior. For example, it is<br />
thought that <strong>the</strong> initial host <strong>of</strong> S. expansus is a marine<br />
FRANZISKA ELMER<br />
From top: Uncharacteristic black spots can be seen on and near <strong>the</strong><br />
tail <strong>of</strong> this coney grouper (Cephalopholis fulva). Black spots are visible<br />
on this in-transit stoplight parrotfish (Sparisoma viride).<br />
snail, however, <strong>the</strong> particular species <strong>of</strong> snail has yet to<br />
be determined. Also, despite confirming that S. expansus<br />
is <strong>the</strong> cause <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> black spots in ocean surgeonfish in<br />
Bonaire, a Dutch island in <strong>the</strong> sou<strong>the</strong>rn Caribbean, it has<br />
yet to be determined if <strong>the</strong> black spots found on fish in<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r Caribbean islands are, in fact, caused by S. expansus.<br />
In order to keep <strong>the</strong> reefs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> TCI “beautiful by<br />
nature” and ensure that <strong>the</strong>y can provide enough catch<br />
for our local fishermen, it is very important to continue<br />
our research to answer <strong>the</strong>se questions and gain a greater<br />
understanding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> impacts that <strong>the</strong>se parasites have<br />
on <strong>the</strong>ir hosts and <strong>the</strong> coral reef ecosystem as a whole. a<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 39
feature<br />
Opposite page: The extensive Ramsar Nature Reserve, which spans much <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> sou<strong>the</strong>rn coasts <strong>of</strong> North Caicos and Middle Caicos, hides<br />
breathtaking networks <strong>of</strong> estuaries and wetlands. Mangroves can be found across <strong>the</strong>se systems, yet almost every channel is unique, with<br />
varying levels <strong>of</strong> salinity, tidal flow, and flora and fauna.<br />
Above: The mangroves we see above water are supported by prop roots underwater. They slow water circulation and trap sediment—building<br />
land on islands and helping to protect <strong>the</strong> coast from storm erosion.<br />
The Magic <strong>of</strong> Mangroves<br />
A trip through an amazing and valuable eco-treasure.<br />
By Kelly Currington ~ Photos By Agile LeVin, VisitTCI.com<br />
My eyes are immediately drawn to <strong>the</strong> network <strong>of</strong> red and brown “fingers” reaching upward out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
water as my board glides through <strong>the</strong> shallow crystal-clear water <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> mangrove forest. As we slowly<br />
move along, we listen to our guide, Chris, talk to us about all <strong>the</strong> creatures and plants that live here.<br />
Every so <strong>of</strong>ten we stop, sit quietly and watch <strong>the</strong> tiny fish darting in and out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> roots. We see sponges<br />
growing on <strong>the</strong> hard substrate <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> plants, tiny snails attached to almost every stem, and algae plants<br />
everywhere. We gain knowledge <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> vital roles each <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se play in this magical place.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 41
Traveling through <strong>the</strong> mangrove channels via kayak or paddleboard is an awe-inspiring and magical experience.<br />
I am fascinated as our guide explains what a mangrove<br />
forest is and how it functions. We listen intently as<br />
he talks about <strong>the</strong>se special plants that grow in coastal<br />
saline or “brackish” water. These plants are salt-tolerant<br />
(halophytes) and adapted for life in relatively harsh<br />
coastal conditions.<br />
The way mangrove forests work is an amazing feat <strong>of</strong><br />
nature. One <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> first things we learn is why <strong>the</strong>ir roots<br />
rise up out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> water. Mangrove roots are pneumatophores,<br />
specialized to facilitate aeration. For at least part<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> day, <strong>the</strong>se aerial, or breathing, roots, are exposed<br />
to <strong>the</strong> air. This is crucial, as <strong>the</strong> mud or sediment in <strong>the</strong><br />
mangrove forest is oxygen-poor, unstable and incapable<br />
<strong>of</strong> supporting <strong>the</strong> underground root system. Nature<br />
adapted by creating roots that reach up and out for <strong>the</strong><br />
oxygen mangroves need to survive.<br />
Ano<strong>the</strong>r amazing and noticeable magic trick <strong>of</strong><br />
Mo<strong>the</strong>r Nature is <strong>the</strong> way she sacrifices one leaf to protect<br />
<strong>the</strong> “soul” <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> plant. The sacrificial leaf is where <strong>the</strong><br />
plant filters out salt from <strong>the</strong> roots. The leaf turns yellow<br />
or brown, and when it has reached its maximum salinity,<br />
it falls <strong>of</strong>f and a new leaf takes over. The leaf that falls<br />
<strong>of</strong>f will decompose and feed smaller creatures, <strong>the</strong>refore<br />
continuing <strong>the</strong> circle <strong>of</strong> life.<br />
Mangrove forests are one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> most important<br />
ecosystems on <strong>the</strong> earth, and <strong>the</strong>re is something incredibly<br />
spiritual and magical about gliding through <strong>the</strong>m.<br />
Their dense root systems trap sediments flowing <strong>of</strong>f <strong>the</strong><br />
land, which helps stabilize <strong>the</strong> coastlines and helps prevent<br />
erosion caused by storms and big waves, as well as<br />
keeping <strong>the</strong> sediment from flowing out onto <strong>the</strong> reef and<br />
smo<strong>the</strong>ring <strong>the</strong> corals and seagrass.<br />
Besides being a protective barrier for <strong>the</strong> islands,<br />
<strong>the</strong> mangroves have many o<strong>the</strong>r contributing benefits to<br />
a healthy eco-system. One <strong>of</strong> those benefits is that <strong>the</strong><br />
mangrove forest serves as a nursery and safe haven for<br />
many species. Juvenile reef and lemon sharks stay in <strong>the</strong><br />
safety <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> mangroves for about two years, where <strong>the</strong>y<br />
are safe from predators in <strong>the</strong> shallow water and dense<br />
root system. The juvenile sharks (pups) use this time to<br />
grow and practice hunting little fish, learning <strong>the</strong> skills<br />
<strong>the</strong>y will need to survive out on <strong>the</strong> reef. Juvenile sea turtles<br />
not only use this safe haven to grow and hide from<br />
predators—<strong>the</strong>re is a rich source <strong>of</strong> vegetation for <strong>the</strong>m<br />
in <strong>the</strong> mangroves, increasing <strong>the</strong>ir survival odds.<br />
While we move through <strong>the</strong> forest, <strong>the</strong> sound <strong>of</strong> birds<br />
chirping and leaves rustling is a calm and peaceful sound.<br />
The gentle movement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> water flowing under us is<br />
42 www.timespub.tc
Top: This isolated red mangrove bush is located in Stakes Bank near South Caicos, and serves one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> few frigatebird rookeries remaining<br />
in <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos.<br />
Bottom: A flamboyance <strong>of</strong> Caribbean flamingos (Phoenicopterus ruber) take flight near Vine Point in <strong>the</strong> Ramsar Nature Reserve on <strong>the</strong> south<br />
coast <strong>of</strong> Middle Caicos.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 43
This startlingly spectacular image is actually an ecological disaster. It was taken in 2018 when <strong>the</strong> estuary between McCartney Cay and Hog<br />
Cay, which is one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> longest mangrove channels in <strong>the</strong> country, was completely closed <strong>of</strong>f with sargassum. That location is typically one<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> most scenic areas in <strong>the</strong> TCI, and <strong>the</strong> water is usually turquoise.
This peaceful evening scene takes place at <strong>the</strong> Northwest Point Pond Nature Reserve on Providenciales, one <strong>of</strong> TCI’s true treasures.<br />
mesmerizing, washes away outside thoughts and brings<br />
you to a mental place <strong>of</strong> clarity. You can almost feel <strong>the</strong><br />
intellectual connection between <strong>the</strong> plants and creatures<br />
here. It’s very difficult to explain in words—it’s something<br />
you have to experience. It allows you to connect<br />
with nature in a very raw way, and to connect to your own<br />
inner peace without <strong>the</strong> clutter and white noise <strong>of</strong> everyday<br />
life. It is an opportunity to unplug manmade sounds<br />
and hear nature’s voice.<br />
The water rises and falls up to three feet here in <strong>the</strong>se<br />
mangroves <strong>of</strong> Providenciales, and as it changes, so does<br />
<strong>the</strong> activity level. When <strong>the</strong> tide is high and <strong>the</strong> channel is<br />
at its deepest, we see sea turtles swimming in <strong>the</strong> middle<br />
and watch juvenile reef and lemon sharks swimming out<br />
in <strong>the</strong> open and circling our boards, chasing little fish.<br />
These pups are about two feet in length and can move<br />
astonishingly fast. When <strong>the</strong> tide starts to recede, <strong>the</strong><br />
creatures use this as a sign to return to <strong>the</strong> shade <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
roots until <strong>the</strong> next rise, as <strong>the</strong> tropical sun is extreme<br />
and harsh on <strong>the</strong> shallow, unshaded water.<br />
The mangroves appear to have an intelligence all<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir own. The plants never grow in <strong>the</strong> channel, yet keep<br />
<strong>the</strong> perimeter thick and lush, as if <strong>the</strong> plants somehow<br />
speak to one ano<strong>the</strong>r to know <strong>the</strong> water must flow in and<br />
out to keep <strong>the</strong> delicate ecosystem intact.<br />
It is no secret that one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> most adverse and<br />
destructive effects <strong>of</strong> climate change today is coral<br />
bleaching. It is happening in all <strong>the</strong> world’s oceans and is<br />
predicted to worsen as more carbon is absorbed by <strong>the</strong><br />
sea. Here’s something that may not be so well known:<br />
Mangrove plants have <strong>the</strong> capability to clean <strong>the</strong> air we<br />
brea<strong>the</strong> by absorbing and storing carbon dioxide up to<br />
ten times more than a comparably sized terrestrial forest.<br />
This is crucial in <strong>the</strong> continuous battle against climate<br />
change and <strong>the</strong>se special forests are key in saving <strong>the</strong><br />
oceans. With coral reefs being <strong>the</strong> foundation <strong>of</strong> marine<br />
life, <strong>the</strong> very real possibility <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir death is disastrous<br />
for <strong>the</strong> planet. The reduction <strong>of</strong> carbon in <strong>the</strong> water<br />
means <strong>the</strong> reduction <strong>of</strong> coral bleaching. This is vital!<br />
Ano<strong>the</strong>r way mangrove forests could be key in saving<br />
<strong>the</strong> reefs is by providing shelter for coral species at<br />
risk <strong>of</strong> extinction from bleaching. Baby corals grow within<br />
<strong>the</strong> mangrove roots, and once mature enough, can be<br />
transplanted to <strong>the</strong> reef, aiding natural growth and reproduction.<br />
What I learned from my adventure in this forest is<br />
46 www.timespub.tc
how crucial mangroves are, not only for keeping coastlines<br />
safe from storms and surge, but in <strong>the</strong>ir role in<br />
protecting so many species <strong>of</strong> life that rely on <strong>the</strong>m for<br />
safety and nourishment. I also learned how important it<br />
is to educate people on <strong>the</strong>se amazing ecosystems and<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir role in <strong>the</strong> “big picture” <strong>of</strong> all life. Mangroves must<br />
be protected—once <strong>the</strong>y are gone, <strong>the</strong>y cannot simply<br />
be replanted. Because <strong>the</strong>y actually hold <strong>the</strong> coastline<br />
in place and give it its shape, once gone <strong>the</strong> land will<br />
erode, giving way to tide and current, which will change<br />
<strong>the</strong> coastline permanently.<br />
As my time in <strong>the</strong> magical forest <strong>of</strong> mangroves came<br />
to an end, I left feeling privileged to have experienced it<br />
and to have heard <strong>the</strong> message in its voice. I will visit this<br />
amazing ecosystem again, not only to continue learning<br />
all I can about life here, but also to allow myself to unplug<br />
again and soak up <strong>the</strong> peace that one can only experience<br />
in <strong>the</strong> quiet <strong>of</strong> nature.<br />
At <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> day, Kite Provo delivered far and<br />
above my expectations on this adventure. I was filled<br />
with so much educational information, generating just<br />
as many questions for my next jaunt in <strong>the</strong> mangroves.<br />
Please remember that when visiting this special place to<br />
respect <strong>the</strong> creatures and plants, and to keep your feet <strong>of</strong>f<br />
<strong>the</strong> bottom. Try to minimize <strong>the</strong> impact <strong>of</strong> your presence<br />
<strong>the</strong>re and, as always, take only pictures and memories as<br />
your souvenirs. Protect . . . Conserve . . . Preserve. a<br />
The longest established legal practice<br />
in <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong><br />
Real Estate Investments<br />
& Property Development<br />
Immigration, Residency<br />
& Business Licensing<br />
Company & Commercial Law<br />
Trusts & Estate Planning<br />
Banking & Insurance<br />
1 Caribbean Place, P.O. Box 97<br />
Leeward Highway, Providenciales<br />
Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>, BWI<br />
Ph: 649 946 4344 • Fax: 649 946 4564<br />
E-Mail: dempsey@tciway.tc<br />
Cockburn House, P.O. Box 70<br />
Market Street, Grand Turk<br />
Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>, BWI<br />
Ph: 649 946 2245 • Fax: 649 946 2758<br />
E-Mail: ffdlawco@tciway.tc<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 47
The Northwest Point Pond Nature Reserve is a remote inland pond system on Providenciales, and is home to <strong>the</strong> most impressive red mangrove<br />
forests on <strong>the</strong> island. The interior pond <strong>of</strong> this nature reserve is tidal, with underwater cave systems.
COURTESY TURKS & CAICOS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
usiness<br />
Opposite page: Bruce Willis’s 7.37 acre beachfront property on Parrot Cay was recently sold for $27 million, just short <strong>of</strong> becoming <strong>the</strong> island’s<br />
most expensive piece <strong>of</strong> real estate, according to listing agent Nina Siegenthaler <strong>of</strong> Turks & Caicos So<strong>the</strong>by’s International Realty. There is a<br />
five-bedroom main house, a yoga pavilion and two guest casitas.<br />
Above: As Bruce Willis’s agent for seven years, John Galleymore was able to utilize local contractors and suppliers in order to control <strong>the</strong><br />
escalating maintenance program.<br />
COURTESY TURKS & CAICOS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY<br />
Don’t Worry, I’ve Got This!<br />
Protecting <strong>the</strong> interests <strong>of</strong> owners and investors.<br />
By John Galleymore<br />
ISLAND LIVING . . . It’s a common misconception that life in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> is a stress-free routine <strong>of</strong> lounging<br />
in hammocks, drinking rum cocktails and watching sunsets. Yes, while that may happen some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> time,<br />
for <strong>the</strong> majority <strong>of</strong> us in order to play hard, we have to work hard.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 51
COURTESY TURKS & CAICOS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY<br />
Parrot Cay serves as a get-away place to many celebrities, including Donna Karan, Bruce Willis, Keith Richards and o<strong>the</strong>r lesser-known but<br />
equally successful people.<br />
Island living for a resident expatriate like me and my<br />
wife Sally has its challenges, but we deal with <strong>the</strong>m and<br />
embrace <strong>the</strong> Caribbean way <strong>of</strong> life, its culture and <strong>the</strong><br />
wonderful people that live here. We can tell tales <strong>of</strong> quirky<br />
“island” situations that we’ve all had to deal with, mostly<br />
with a smile and a dose <strong>of</strong> patience and understanding!<br />
For <strong>the</strong> most part, folks visiting <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos<br />
<strong>Islands</strong> are on vacation and <strong>the</strong> gracious staff <strong>of</strong> resorts,<br />
restaurants and spas, along with transportation and tour<br />
operators, cater for <strong>the</strong>ir every need. A fair share <strong>of</strong> those<br />
visitors choose to invest here, most <strong>of</strong>ten in a vacation<br />
property. For those “newbies,” <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> take on a<br />
whole different persona when <strong>the</strong>y enter <strong>the</strong> realms <strong>of</strong><br />
real estate and property development. Dealing with architects,<br />
contractors, tradesmen, government permits and<br />
<strong>the</strong> like is far removed from what <strong>the</strong>y may be used to<br />
“back home” and it’s easy to get stuck along <strong>the</strong> way. And<br />
here, becoming unstuck can end up costing big bucks!<br />
I originally arrived in <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> in<br />
2006 to work on a huge hotel development on West<br />
Caicos. In spite <strong>of</strong> having spent many years in UK construction,<br />
I still had a very steep learning curve <strong>of</strong> how<br />
things were done in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong>. Luckily, I was working<br />
with Projetech Ltd., one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> longest-standing and most<br />
John Galleymore (far right) had <strong>the</strong> opportunity to talk with former US<br />
President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle during a recent project<br />
in <strong>the</strong> British Virgin <strong>Islands</strong>.<br />
reputable building companies on Providenciales, so <strong>the</strong><br />
issue <strong>of</strong> quality was never a problem.<br />
Sometime after this experience, I ended up on Parrot<br />
Cay—home to many celebrities—and found myself in <strong>the</strong><br />
villas <strong>of</strong> Donna Karan, Bruce Willis and Keith Richards, as<br />
52 www.timespub.tc
well as o<strong>the</strong>r lesser-known but equally successful people.<br />
It was during this time that my personal ethos <strong>of</strong> treating<br />
everyone equally really came to light. I was asked in passing<br />
by a wealthy owner what my thoughts were on some<br />
expensive outdoor woodwork that was being installed,<br />
after all, he commented, “It’s costing me half a million<br />
dollars.” I politely pointed out that if <strong>the</strong> contractor had<br />
used stainless steel screws, <strong>the</strong>re’s a good chance he<br />
john redmond associates ltd.<br />
architects & designers<br />
construction consultants<br />
project management<br />
would not have to take it all up and re-do it in five years!<br />
To say he was shocked was an understatement, and <strong>the</strong><br />
fault was soon remedied at <strong>the</strong> contractor’s expense, who<br />
had actually quoted for stainless steel screws but opted<br />
to save thousands <strong>of</strong> dollars by using regular.<br />
Over <strong>the</strong> years, I have picked up on a fairly common<br />
<strong>the</strong>me.<br />
Cays Winter<br />
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<strong>Times</strong><br />
one <strong>of</strong><br />
2018_Layout<br />
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<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 53
TWATIMES_Layout 1 2/16/17 7:49 AM Page 1<br />
Serving international & domestic clients in real estate, property development,<br />
mortgages, corporate & commercial matters, immigration, & more.<br />
TEL 649.946.4261 TMW@TMWLAW.TC WWW.TWAMARCELINWOLF.COM<br />
Hugh final_Layout 1 5/29/17 1:15 PM Page 1<br />
P<br />
E<br />
R<br />
S<br />
HUGH G. O’NEILL<br />
&<br />
ATTORNEYSN<br />
AT<br />
L AW<br />
P.O. Box 267<br />
Hibernian House<br />
1136 Leeward Highway<br />
Providenciales<br />
Turks and Caicos <strong>Islands</strong><br />
B.W.I.<br />
Tel 649-946-4514<br />
Fax 649-946-4955<br />
Email hugh.oneill@hgoneillco.tc<br />
C<br />
CO. O<br />
N<br />
F<br />
I<br />
D<br />
E<br />
N<br />
T<br />
I<br />
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cut corners and occasionally “overlook” some cost-critical<br />
items. For <strong>the</strong> unwary investor, this can cost hugely.<br />
Fortunately, <strong>the</strong> majority <strong>of</strong> TCI’s established quantity<br />
surveyors, architects and building managers, including<br />
those whose ads you see in this magazine, work to protect<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir clients from maintenance problems caused by<br />
<strong>the</strong> harsh Caribbean environment.<br />
I have found myself assisting new owners and developers<br />
all over <strong>the</strong> Caribbean, South America, UK and USA.<br />
As an experienced project manager drawing on 35 years<br />
<strong>of</strong> construction experience, I can view a project not just<br />
from a contractor’s viewpoint, but also from <strong>the</strong> owner’s.<br />
This is especially critical if <strong>the</strong> owner has little or no<br />
construction experience, is not on island, or commonly,<br />
both. It’s imperative <strong>the</strong>y have someone whose sole focus<br />
is protecting <strong>the</strong>ir investment.<br />
Bruce Willis has a fabulous private estate on Parrot<br />
Cay that was just recently sold for an astonishing $27<br />
million. When I was lucky enough to meet him, I actually<br />
<strong>of</strong>fended him by being critical <strong>of</strong> his property. However,<br />
once he realized all <strong>the</strong> items I highlighted were actually<br />
issues he had been reliant on (and paying) o<strong>the</strong>rs to fix<br />
for years, he realized that I was not a “Yes man” and that<br />
I’d tell it to him straight—good or bad. He looked me in<br />
<strong>the</strong> eye and said, “I need someone to have my back!” I<br />
replied, “I got this . . .”<br />
I viewed his property as I do any o<strong>the</strong>r, regardless<br />
<strong>of</strong> size or who owns it—I treat it as my property. If <strong>the</strong>re<br />
is work being done or an expenditure to cover, I always<br />
think, “Would I accept this on my house? Would I pay this<br />
much for this item if it were my money?”<br />
I normally start by arranging a full survey <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> property<br />
and highlight where costs can be saved and what<br />
work needs to be done. Home-running costs—utilities,<br />
staff, maintenance—can be quite high, <strong>of</strong>ten excessive.<br />
Over time, with <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong> some great workers, local suppliers<br />
and successful TCI vendors, we reduced <strong>the</strong> annual<br />
expenditure on <strong>the</strong> Willis estate from close to a million<br />
dollars to around $300,000.<br />
You don’t have to be a celebrity to live in <strong>the</strong> beautiful<br />
Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>, and many people own modest<br />
homes and villas. It’s a very common practice to own a<br />
second vacation home and rent it out to <strong>of</strong>fset <strong>the</strong> running<br />
costs. This can be very lucrative if handled in <strong>the</strong><br />
correct way.<br />
When starting out on a potential rental-income property<br />
investment or vacation home, <strong>the</strong>re are a number <strong>of</strong><br />
key factors to consider:<br />
54 www.timespub.tc
1. The property location;<br />
2. The property’s condition and works needed;<br />
3. Choosing contractors, architects and suppliers;<br />
4. Deciding who will manage <strong>the</strong> property; and<br />
5. Choosing a property manager.<br />
Location<br />
As with any property purchase, this is paramount and<br />
even more so for an island rental. Over <strong>the</strong> years, focus<br />
has shifted from <strong>the</strong> “key” areas <strong>of</strong> Leeward and Grace<br />
Bay out to Long Bay, Turtle Tail and Chalk Sound. Good<br />
island knowledge is invaluable when advising on location<br />
or predicting <strong>the</strong> next upcoming “hot spot.”<br />
Property condition<br />
A glance through <strong>the</strong> bi-annual Turks & Caicos Real Estate<br />
Association’s magazine Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> Real<br />
Estate or <strong>the</strong> corresponding MLS system at www.tcrea.<br />
com shows that a tremendous number <strong>of</strong> properties on<br />
island are for sale, and that is quite normal. Homes are<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten finished to a very high standard and many are listed<br />
almost immediately.<br />
If you wish to buy a turn-key property, <strong>the</strong>re is a<br />
vast array available. However, some investors may wish<br />
to ei<strong>the</strong>r buy a fixer-upper or break ground and build a<br />
bespoke property. Buying a run-down or even half-finished<br />
building may seem daunting, but with <strong>the</strong> right<br />
guidance and crew onboard, it will soon be transformed<br />
into your dream home in paradise.<br />
JOHN GALLEYMORE<br />
Choosing <strong>the</strong> pr<strong>of</strong>essionals<br />
Whatever condition <strong>the</strong> property you choose, at some<br />
point you may need to employ <strong>the</strong> services <strong>of</strong> a pr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />
contractor, engineer or architect—and possibly<br />
all three! The larger, long-established contractors tend<br />
to have more in-house protocols for quality assurance,<br />
scheduling, payment schedules and progress reporting.<br />
Recent years have seen <strong>the</strong> emergence <strong>of</strong> competent and<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essional independent contractors, who are able to<br />
produce extremely high-end work, <strong>of</strong>ten without <strong>the</strong> overheads<br />
<strong>of</strong> a larger company. That said, <strong>the</strong> type <strong>of</strong> project<br />
you are undertaking will determine <strong>the</strong> contractor and<br />
this decision should be taken carefully.<br />
Engineers and architects will <strong>of</strong>ten already be<br />
involved in larger projects such as house builds and large<br />
renovations. You should determine if acting as a client’s<br />
representative is within <strong>the</strong>ir designated scope <strong>of</strong> works.<br />
They can be an excellent resource for any homeowner.<br />
The donkeys that roam across Salt Cay are descendants <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> animals<br />
that worked during <strong>the</strong> salt producing days.<br />
This collection <strong>of</strong> home disasters seen by <strong>the</strong> author shows <strong>the</strong> importance<br />
<strong>of</strong> preventative maintenance and using property managers with<br />
experience and know-how.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 55
Property management<br />
Once <strong>the</strong> house is completed, <strong>the</strong> furnishings are in, and<br />
<strong>the</strong> pool is cleaned, it may be time to think about heading<br />
home to North America or Europe. That’s when you<br />
need to decide who is going to look after your new piece<br />
<strong>of</strong> paradise.<br />
Firstly, a decision is made whe<strong>the</strong>r to rent it for an<br />
income or keep it secure as a visiting vacation home for<br />
you and family. Renting brings many benefits—income<br />
to <strong>of</strong>fset expenditure being <strong>the</strong> main focus. However, it<br />
can also bring headaches—legislation that needs to be<br />
adhered to, such as standards for renting (fire and pool<br />
regulations included); taxes and service charges that<br />
need to be billed and paid to government; regular maintenance;<br />
guest issues and complaints—soon it can all seem<br />
too much.<br />
Even just having a home locked up until you return<br />
can bring its own set <strong>of</strong> issues—who will check it regularly<br />
for leaks, bugs or storm damage? Sometimes, even<br />
a simple fix has a way <strong>of</strong> becoming very complicated too!<br />
A reliable and pr<strong>of</strong>essional property manager will<br />
take all this stress away from you—but for a fee, <strong>of</strong><br />
course. How your home is managed will determine how<br />
much you pay. You will need to decide on such things<br />
as bookings, payments, and who will manage those. The<br />
taxes and charges collected from guests must be paid<br />
regularly to <strong>the</strong> TCI Government or fines can be incurred.<br />
Cleaning, maintenance, grocery stocking and meet-andgreet<br />
are amongst a long list <strong>of</strong> tasks needed to run a<br />
successful property.<br />
For <strong>the</strong>se services, managers will charge up to 20%,<br />
although 15% is more normal. This can end up being a<br />
large chunk <strong>of</strong> income that you will need to account for<br />
to run your property. If <strong>the</strong> home is secured and vacant,<br />
a set monthly fee should be agreed on in return for a<br />
regular duty. Some owners choose to <strong>of</strong>fset expenses by<br />
taking care <strong>of</strong> such things as online booking <strong>the</strong>mselves.<br />
This can save money, but your time value needs to be<br />
weighed up against <strong>the</strong> savings made.<br />
Choosing a manager/caretaker<br />
What to look for in a reliable manager? For me, <strong>the</strong> most<br />
important attributes are commitment and attitude—a<br />
manager who is 100% focused on your property. A reliable<br />
manager should be sending weekly updates on <strong>the</strong><br />
property, as well as looking ahead for any maintenance<br />
issues. There is an old saying about “putting out fires”<br />
and this is <strong>of</strong>ten <strong>the</strong> case (thankfully, not literally) with<br />
many property managers. They will REACT to an issue<br />
(blocked drain, faulty A/C) and not be PROACTIVE in preventative<br />
actions.<br />
They should also be aware <strong>of</strong> property expenditure<br />
and spend your money as if it was <strong>the</strong>ir own. Quite <strong>of</strong>ten I<br />
am told by owners that a repair part, service or goods has<br />
been purchased with no regard to its cost or research into<br />
cheaper alternatives. I once had someone buy a replacement<br />
part for a septic tank costing $1,700 that could<br />
have been bought online for $120 had <strong>the</strong>y just carried<br />
out some basic research.<br />
To summarize, a pr<strong>of</strong>essional manager will:<br />
• Send a weekly update as to <strong>the</strong> house, its condition<br />
and any issues.<br />
• Instigate a full PPM (Pre-planned Maintenance Program)<br />
to ensure potential issuse are caught early.<br />
• Obtain tenders and price comparisons for goods, services<br />
and materials needed.<br />
• Visit <strong>the</strong> house regularly, in person, whe<strong>the</strong>r occupied<br />
or not, to check for issues.<br />
• Warn you <strong>of</strong> advancing storms and protect/secure <strong>the</strong><br />
house as needed.<br />
• Visit <strong>the</strong> home within 24 hours <strong>of</strong> any major storm to<br />
report back on its condition.<br />
Owning a piece <strong>of</strong> paradise is a dream that is available<br />
to you if you set your heart to it! With some good<br />
research and dedication, you will be able to surround<br />
yourself with a great team who will love your home as<br />
much as you do! a<br />
John Galleymore operates a successful homeowners/ concierge<br />
service in <strong>the</strong> TCI. He consults, advises and acts<br />
as an owner’s representative on properties worldwide.<br />
To contact him for advice, call (649) 232 7083 or email<br />
compasstci@gmail.com.<br />
John Galleymore makes <strong>the</strong> rounds <strong>of</strong> a private estate.<br />
56 www.timespub.tc
South Bank launches The Boathouses<br />
In <strong>the</strong> Spring <strong>2019</strong> issue <strong>of</strong> <strong>Times</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong>, we introduced you to<br />
<strong>the</strong> intriguing new residential resort<br />
community <strong>of</strong> South Bank. Located on<br />
Providenciales’ ruggedly beautiful south<br />
shore at Long Bay, it is <strong>the</strong> latest idyllic<br />
retreat by Windward Development,<br />
specialists in creating unique waterfront<br />
properties. Debuting this fall are The<br />
Boathouses at South Bank, <strong>the</strong> first <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong>ir kind on <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong>.<br />
The South Bank property, spanning<br />
31 acres east <strong>of</strong> Caicos Marina, with 230<br />
feet <strong>of</strong> beachfront along Long Bay Beach<br />
and 2,000 feet <strong>of</strong> picturesque ironshore,<br />
beckons with a siren song to water lovers.<br />
I took a bike ride along <strong>the</strong> road lining <strong>the</strong> property<br />
one afternoon this summer, and couldn’t tear my eyes<br />
from <strong>the</strong> vast expanse <strong>of</strong> gleaming deep blue sea that<br />
lapped at <strong>the</strong> shore. If I had access to a boat, kayak<br />
or paddle board, I would have been skimming those<br />
luscious waters.<br />
I suspect that’s why South Bank is adding The<br />
Boathouses to <strong>the</strong> two already introduced neighborhoods:<br />
The Lagoon, an intimate community <strong>of</strong> twelve<br />
villas surrounding a swimming beach lagoon, and The<br />
Ocean Estate, a collection <strong>of</strong> eight contemporary beach<br />
and oceanfront homes. Abundant in space and light,<br />
<strong>the</strong> 38 Boathouses are in <strong>the</strong> The Launch neighborhood<br />
on <strong>the</strong> marina waterfront, each with a private dock<br />
directly on <strong>the</strong> back terrace—a TCI first. Designed as<br />
a modern Caribbean streetscape surrounding a central<br />
pool and relaxation area, The Boathouses <strong>of</strong>fer <strong>the</strong><br />
perfect balance <strong>of</strong> community, views and space, with<br />
prices starting at $795,000.<br />
The one-bedroom Boathouse covers 1,918 square<br />
feet <strong>of</strong> interior and exterior living space on two levels.<br />
The living and dining areas are on ei<strong>the</strong>r side <strong>of</strong> a<br />
contemporary kitchen on <strong>the</strong> ground floor, with an outdoor<br />
dining terrace seemingly floating above <strong>the</strong> water.<br />
There is also a lower terrace for easy boat and water<br />
access. The second level holds an oversized master<br />
suite with large walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom.<br />
The efficient two-bedroom Boathouse <strong>of</strong>fers 2,077<br />
square feet <strong>of</strong> living space on its two levels, with <strong>the</strong><br />
second bedroom on <strong>the</strong> upper floor and including<br />
ensuite bathrooms, spacious closets and a terrace. It<br />
The contemporary styled Boathouses in South Bank’s Launch neighborhood are<br />
available with optional ro<strong>of</strong>top terraces with expansive water views.<br />
represents outstanding value.<br />
The three-bedroom Boathouse measures a generous<br />
2,839 square feet over three levels. The master<br />
bedroom expands across <strong>the</strong> entire third floor and<br />
<strong>of</strong>fers panoramic water views.<br />
Ownership includes use <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> community area<br />
with pool (equally suited for sun worshippers and keen<br />
swimmers), and a spacious lounging patio with hammocks,<br />
BBQs, changing rooms and bathrooms.<br />
Blee Halligan are <strong>the</strong> architects bringing South<br />
Bank to life. According to Greg Blee, “We designed<br />
The Boathouses to create a welcoming, peaceful<br />
atmosphere where everything is at hand. These<br />
contemporary townhouses surround a central entertainment<br />
area, designed as an extension <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> villas<br />
to create a cohesiveness in design and materiality.<br />
Some homes have <strong>the</strong> option for a ro<strong>of</strong> terrace, while<br />
all boast an outdoor dining deck suspended over <strong>the</strong><br />
water and stunning views over Juba Sound, <strong>the</strong> marina,<br />
mangroves and Caicos Bank beyond.”<br />
South Bank, managed by renowned Grace Bay<br />
Resorts, is anchored by a full-service marina and at full<br />
build-out, amenities will include a fitness center and<br />
spa, tennis court, clubhouse with pool, bar and restaurant,<br />
café, lagoon peninsula with lounging cabanas,<br />
non-motorized watersports and Long Bay Beach access.<br />
Water taxi and boat concierge services ensure living or<br />
staying at South Bank is effortless for boat owners. a<br />
For more information, see South Bank’s ad on page 7<br />
or visit livesouthbank.com.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 57
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astrolabe<br />
newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos National Museum<br />
front street, p.o. box 188, grand turk, turks & caicos islands, bwi<br />
tel 649 946 2160 • fax 649 946 2160 • email info@tcmuseum.org • web www.tcmuseum.org<br />
Jill Beckingham, wife <strong>of</strong> former TCI Governor HE Peter Beckingham,<br />
painted this scene <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> National Museum’s original site in Guinep<br />
House on Grand Turk.<br />
A National Museum System<br />
TURKS & CAICOS NATIONAL MUSEUM COLLECTION<br />
There has been a lot <strong>of</strong> debate recently on social media platforms over <strong>the</strong> expansion <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> National<br />
Museum into Providenciales, with a strong voice that it should only be in Grand Turk. We have dedicated<br />
a lot <strong>of</strong> space in <strong>the</strong> Astrolabe to this discussion. In <strong>the</strong> Winter 2017/18 issue, Dr. Donald Keith discussed<br />
why it is important for <strong>the</strong> Museum to move to Providenciales; in <strong>the</strong> Spring <strong>2019</strong> edition, Vanessa<br />
Pateman explained why national museums and archives are important.<br />
In TCI, <strong>the</strong> National Museum must look to serve <strong>the</strong> population <strong>of</strong> multiple islands. In order to serve<br />
<strong>the</strong> largest number <strong>of</strong> Belongers, we must expand our operations to where <strong>the</strong> bulk <strong>of</strong> those people<br />
are located. In fact, we should think <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Museum as not a single location or building, but a system<br />
designed to serve multiple people and locations.<br />
The role <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> National Museum is to serve as a repository <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> TCI’s collective past. Our mission<br />
involves recording, interpreting, preserving and celebrating <strong>the</strong> history <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong><br />
and its people. The Museum has hosted multiple events in both Grand Turk and Providenciales and we<br />
have many more upcoming. In this edition <strong>of</strong> Astrolabe, you will read <strong>the</strong> first <strong>of</strong> several articles on <strong>the</strong><br />
TCI during <strong>the</strong> World Wars. Additionally, we share our plans for <strong>the</strong> development <strong>of</strong> new exhibitions on<br />
Grand Turk. a<br />
Michael P. Pateman, Ph.D., Director, Turks & Caicos National Museum<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 59
astrolabe newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos National Museum<br />
REVELL<br />
This image depicts <strong>the</strong> type <strong>of</strong> German submarine (U-154) that stalked <strong>the</strong> area around <strong>the</strong> Bahamas and Turks & Caicos during World War II.<br />
TCI in WWI & WWII<br />
Survivors <strong>of</strong> U-Boat strikes on Stifinder (1918) and Vineland (1942).<br />
By Capt. Eric Wiberg ~ Images Courtesy Eric Wiberg<br />
Recently, <strong>the</strong> topic <strong>of</strong> German and Italian submarine depredations in <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>, Bahamas,<br />
Caribbean and US has risen to <strong>the</strong> surface more <strong>of</strong>ten. This includes knowledge <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> discovery <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
arrival <strong>of</strong> German naval ship SMS Karlsruhe’s jolly boat in Hope Town, Abaco in 1914. However, few may<br />
know <strong>the</strong> extent <strong>of</strong> German submarine attacks in and near <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos in both world wars.<br />
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astrolabe newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos National Museum<br />
In World War I (WWI) from 1914 to 1918, 116<br />
US-flagged ships and sailing vessels were sunk near <strong>the</strong><br />
Americas out <strong>of</strong> 174 US vessels. In World War II (WWII),<br />
<strong>the</strong> US lost 470 ships in <strong>the</strong> Americas out <strong>of</strong> 1,554 total<br />
(ussmm.org). Fur<strong>the</strong>rmore, in WWII, 5,000 Allied died in<br />
US waters—twice <strong>the</strong> death rate <strong>of</strong> Pearl Harbour and a<br />
third more than <strong>the</strong> 9/11 attacks.<br />
In WWI, not only was <strong>the</strong>re a fear that German surface<br />
raiders might return to <strong>the</strong> Bahamas, but concerns<br />
that German submarines might attack were very real as<br />
well. This was underscored by <strong>the</strong> arrival <strong>of</strong> Norwegian<br />
merchant sailors after three weeks on <strong>the</strong> inhospitable<br />
sea at TCI. The Stifinder was a steel sailing ship on a voyage<br />
from New York to Freemantle, Australia with drums<br />
<strong>of</strong> petroleum when it was intercepted and sunk roughly<br />
800 miles sou<strong>the</strong>ast <strong>of</strong> Bermuda on October 13, 1918 by<br />
U-152 under Adolf Franz.<br />
Whilst ten crew made it to New Jersey, <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r boat<br />
with Captain Gustave Bjorckman and seven sailors spent<br />
23 days covering 1,000 miles in harsh conditions, landing<br />
at Grand Turk, on November 5. The skipper recounted<br />
how <strong>the</strong>y were overturned and for <strong>the</strong> last eight days had<br />
no equipment; that <strong>the</strong>y were guided over <strong>the</strong> reefs at <strong>the</strong><br />
base <strong>of</strong> a lighthouse during an almost biblical calm, and<br />
that on making shore clad in half a pair <strong>of</strong> trousers and a<br />
vest, he fell over four times. This brought <strong>the</strong> war literally<br />
to TCI Islanders’ doorstep.<br />
WWII German commander Wal<strong>the</strong>r Kölle’s submarine,<br />
<strong>the</strong> U-154, was to return to <strong>the</strong> area around <strong>the</strong><br />
Bahamas and Turks & Caicos four times. The Canadian<br />
dry-bulk ship Vineland was <strong>the</strong> only Canadian vessel<br />
sunk in <strong>the</strong> region during <strong>the</strong> conflict. Launched in 1919<br />
by <strong>the</strong> American International Shipbuilding Company <strong>of</strong><br />
Hog Island, Pennsylvania, she performed at least one<br />
“immigrant” voyage. In 1928, Izaak Walton Killam (an<br />
understudy <strong>of</strong> Lord Beaverbrook, or Max Aitken, who<br />
went on to own Gun Point, an estate facing Spanish Wells<br />
in North Eleu<strong>the</strong>ra) founded <strong>the</strong> Mersey Paper Company.<br />
That firm purchased <strong>the</strong> Sapinero in March <strong>of</strong> 1940 and<br />
renamed her <strong>the</strong> Vineland.<br />
Captain Ralph A. Williams <strong>of</strong> Nova Scotia was placed<br />
in charge <strong>of</strong> a total complement <strong>of</strong> 37 men, including<br />
three Royal Canadian Naval Reserve gunners to man a<br />
two-inch gun on an aft platform. His bro<strong>the</strong>r Charlie commanded<br />
ano<strong>the</strong>r <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> company’s ships. The Canadian<br />
Shipping Board’s Department <strong>of</strong> Transport called <strong>the</strong><br />
From top: The Norwegian barque Stifinder is under sail with casual<br />
German submariners in <strong>the</strong> foreground, prior to <strong>the</strong> ship being sunk<br />
by charges in <strong>the</strong> North Atlantic. The next image shows <strong>the</strong> Stifinder<br />
sinking. Her men rowed and sailed over 1,000 nautical miles to <strong>the</strong><br />
Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>.<br />
ship to service carrying bauxite from <strong>the</strong> Virgin <strong>Islands</strong><br />
to Portland, Maine. The Vineland was a steam-propelled<br />
cargo ship which could carry 7,800 tons <strong>of</strong> cargo. Her<br />
gross registered tonnage was 5,587, its length overall<br />
was 401 feet, her beam was 54 feet, and draft 24.5 feet.<br />
Her registered speed was 12 knots via a quadruple-expansion<br />
engine.<br />
On April 10, 1942 <strong>the</strong> Vineland left Portland in ballast,<br />
bound for St. Thomas to load bauxite. The ship hugged<br />
<strong>the</strong> American coast on <strong>the</strong> voyage down, not setting <strong>of</strong>f<br />
for <strong>the</strong> open ocean until after it had passed Hatteras.<br />
On <strong>the</strong> way through <strong>the</strong> “torpedo junction” <strong>the</strong> crew<br />
observed, “around Diamond Shoals <strong>of</strong>f <strong>the</strong> Carolinas, you<br />
could see where <strong>the</strong> submarines had chased ships right<br />
up onto <strong>the</strong> shoals, and <strong>the</strong>y were sinking. They were<br />
afire, <strong>the</strong>re were a lot <strong>of</strong> bodies around. We seen bodies<br />
pretty near every day.”<br />
At 2:03 PM local time on April 20, 1942, while in a<br />
position roughly 90 miles north <strong>of</strong> Mayaguana and North<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 61
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Caicos islands, Kölle fired two G7a-type torpedoes at <strong>the</strong><br />
ship. None <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> lookouts spotted <strong>the</strong> submarine, its<br />
periscope, or torpedoes at first, since <strong>the</strong> U-boat attacked<br />
from <strong>the</strong> direction <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> strong mid-day sun. The wea<strong>the</strong>r<br />
was fine, with only a gentle swell. The first torpedo struck<br />
aft and a second missile porpoised to <strong>the</strong> surface and<br />
missed astern. Ralph Kelly, who was serving as a mess<br />
boy and leaning over <strong>the</strong> rail at <strong>the</strong> time, saw <strong>the</strong> torpedo<br />
hit. “It hit between <strong>the</strong> gun crew and myself, right back<br />
by number four hatch. I was about fifty feet from where<br />
it hit . . . While we were gettin’ ready to put <strong>the</strong> lifeboats<br />
over <strong>the</strong> side, we seen <strong>the</strong> second torpedo go by us.”<br />
The damage from <strong>the</strong> first torpedo was significant<br />
enough that <strong>the</strong> aerials were brought down and <strong>the</strong>re was<br />
no time for <strong>the</strong> radio operator to rig an emergency aerial<br />
and call for help. Nor could <strong>the</strong> gun be brought to bear.<br />
Kelly was in a lifeboat with <strong>the</strong> Chief Cook. Because <strong>the</strong><br />
oil from <strong>the</strong> galley stove spilled into <strong>the</strong> lifeboat, soaking<br />
everyone in it, a number <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> crew leapt into <strong>the</strong> water.<br />
One <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m was Oiler J. Lawrence Hanson. “This o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
young fella jumped out. What happened to him, <strong>the</strong>y<br />
think ei<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> gang plank or <strong>the</strong> funnel from <strong>the</strong> ship hit<br />
him.” Kelly and <strong>the</strong> cook <strong>the</strong>n went around collecting men<br />
in <strong>the</strong> lifeboat. Two boats got away from <strong>the</strong> ship with<br />
everyone except <strong>the</strong> young Hanson, who was drowned.<br />
After <strong>the</strong> surviving crew had scrambled <strong>of</strong>f <strong>the</strong> ship, Kölle<br />
fired a coup-de-grace which hit amidships and broke <strong>the</strong><br />
stern section completely at 2:20 PM. After U-154’s crew<br />
sent five rounds <strong>of</strong> deck artillery into her waterline at <strong>the</strong><br />
bow, <strong>the</strong> Vineland sank quickly.<br />
Kelly wryly notes that <strong>the</strong> sinking occurred on Hitler’s<br />
birthday, but he described <strong>the</strong> aggressors as “reasonably<br />
good, didn’t bo<strong>the</strong>r us. He [Kölle] just went in and out<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> lifeboats like that, takin’ pictures <strong>of</strong> us.” Captain<br />
Williams was so wary <strong>of</strong> being taken captive by <strong>the</strong><br />
Germans that he threw his braided Captain’s cap away,<br />
lest he be recognized as <strong>the</strong> Master. Kelly continued: “The<br />
Germans gave us cigarettes, asked <strong>the</strong> captain where he<br />
was goin’ to and what he was going to carry, if we needed<br />
medical aid, and told us <strong>the</strong> nearest course to land. One<br />
course was ninety miles and <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r was a thousand, so<br />
you could take your pick . . .” U-154 left <strong>the</strong> men heading<br />
east on <strong>the</strong> surface.<br />
Left on <strong>the</strong> open ocean with no ship and no sub, <strong>the</strong><br />
men started to row and sail southwards, toward <strong>the</strong> TCI,<br />
though Mayaguana and Acklins Island were roughly equi-<br />
Captain Ralph Williams was Master <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Vineland, about which he<br />
was fond <strong>of</strong> saying was a “V” for “Victory.”<br />
distant and fur<strong>the</strong>r downwind. On <strong>the</strong> evening <strong>of</strong> about<br />
<strong>the</strong> third day <strong>the</strong> survivors sighted what <strong>the</strong>y assumed<br />
was an Allied passenger ship on its way to rescue <strong>the</strong>m.<br />
However, whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> ship sighted <strong>the</strong> survivors or<br />
not, it turned away and steamed over <strong>the</strong> horizon. As<br />
a result, <strong>the</strong> Vineland survivors were convinced that it<br />
was a German supply ship and that <strong>the</strong>y had been spared<br />
captivity. For <strong>the</strong> remaining three or so days <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir fiveday<br />
voyage <strong>the</strong> winds were light and <strong>the</strong> men made little<br />
progress, though <strong>the</strong> islands were tantalizingly close.<br />
Kelly described those days as “just driftin’ around” and<br />
said it might have been a week.<br />
For at least one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> crew, <strong>the</strong> lifeboat voyage was<br />
traumatic. According to <strong>the</strong> family which tended to him<br />
on Grand Turk, “<strong>the</strong> man was badly injured having gone<br />
overboard to repair an awning. Something came up from<br />
<strong>the</strong> depths and bit his foot so badly that he stayed at <strong>the</strong><br />
hospital on Grand Turk while <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>rs returned to duty.”<br />
Several locals reported that <strong>the</strong>re was a teenager about<br />
<strong>the</strong> Vineland, which <strong>the</strong>y confused for being a British ship<br />
(<strong>of</strong> course <strong>the</strong>y never saw <strong>the</strong> ship). “One young crew<br />
member, who seemed to be just a boy, really, was a nervous<br />
wreck, having been torpedoed three times.”<br />
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astrolabe newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos National Museum<br />
This chart depicts <strong>the</strong> path <strong>of</strong> sunken Vineland and its survivors.<br />
On April 23, <strong>the</strong> three lifeboats which had managed<br />
to stay toge<strong>the</strong>r were discovered by <strong>the</strong> British sloop<br />
Emily Conway, which was built in 1940 and owned by<br />
James M. Clarke <strong>of</strong> Blue Hills, Caicos Island. According<br />
to <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> Annual Colonial Report,<br />
“The S.S. Vineland was torpedoed, but her crew <strong>of</strong> 35<br />
was picked up by a Caicos sloop.” The fishermen towed<br />
<strong>the</strong> lifeboats to Chalk Sound, Providenciales. The men<br />
had suffered from sunburn, as well as dehydration, but<br />
were o<strong>the</strong>rwise fit. None <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m required hospitalization.<br />
Apparently two <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> boats landed on one side <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> town <strong>of</strong> Providenciales, and <strong>the</strong> third on ano<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
According to one survivor, “On <strong>the</strong> first little island, <strong>the</strong><br />
lifeboats were on different sides, so I don’t know what<br />
happened with <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r two. Where we were <strong>the</strong>re was<br />
one old man and one boy and no supplies. But <strong>the</strong> old<br />
man did give us some banti roosters to kill and eat.”<br />
Kelly writes, “Fishermen picked us up . . . in <strong>the</strong> Turks<br />
Island. That night we got ashore, <strong>the</strong>y scrubbed us and<br />
scrubbed us, trying to get <strong>the</strong> oil out . . . For some reason<br />
or o<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>y wouldn’t let us stay <strong>the</strong>re.” This is likely<br />
because <strong>the</strong> community would have been hard-pressed to<br />
adequately provide for 36 hungry men. Captain Williams<br />
states that <strong>the</strong> Emily Conway (he named her <strong>the</strong> Emily F.<br />
Back in Halifax, Canada, a reunion was held for Vineland survivors.<br />
Convey), took <strong>the</strong>m to Grand Turk on April 24. Kelly continues,<br />
“ . . . this fishin’ boat took us from <strong>the</strong>re to Grand<br />
Turk and that’s where we stayed for a couple <strong>of</strong> weeks.<br />
They gave us clo<strong>the</strong>s that <strong>the</strong>y didn’t think <strong>the</strong>y’d need at<br />
that time. They sold us all <strong>the</strong>ir cigarettes <strong>the</strong>y could possibly<br />
spare because <strong>the</strong>y were on rations too, you might<br />
as well say, ‘cause a ship only come around about every<br />
six or eight weeks’.” a<br />
To be continued . . .<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 63
astrolabe newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos National Museum<br />
This is Vineland survivor Erlin Conrad in his later life.<br />
Nautical author and historian Eric Wiberg is <strong>the</strong><br />
author <strong>of</strong> a dozen books on maritime history, particularly<br />
in <strong>the</strong> Bahamas where he grew up, has published over<br />
100 articles and spoken in multiple mediums at least 50<br />
times. His research is kept in <strong>the</strong> national collections <strong>of</strong><br />
three nations and a maritime college, and Vanity Fair has<br />
featured him.<br />
Wiberg has operated over 100 yachts, many <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m<br />
as captain. A licensed Master since 1995, he is qualified<br />
as a maritime lawyer, with a Master’s in Marine Affairs,<br />
a year at Oxford, and a certificate in screenwriting. He<br />
commercially operated nine tankers from Singapore for<br />
three years, and worked briefly for two salvage firms.<br />
O<strong>the</strong>r jobs have included executive head-hunting, shipping<br />
newspaper salesman, and marketer <strong>of</strong> a tug-boat<br />
fleet. A citizen <strong>of</strong> US and Sweden, he lives in Boston near<br />
his son Felix. He can be contacted at: eric@ericwiberg.<br />
com.<br />
Join <strong>the</strong> Museum<br />
Become a Member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Turks & Caicos National<br />
Museum and receive a<br />
year’s subscription to <strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> (which<br />
includes Astrolabe), free admission to <strong>the</strong> Museum<br />
and o<strong>the</strong>r benefits.<br />
Senior (62+) $35 • Individual $50<br />
Family/Friend $100 • Sponsor $250<br />
Contributor $500 • Partner $750<br />
We have several options for joining:<br />
• Visit <strong>the</strong> Museum at our Providenciales location at<br />
The Village at Grace Bay or our Grand Turk location<br />
in Guinep House on Front Street.<br />
• Visit our website at<br />
www.tcmuseum.org/membership-support/.<br />
• Send US checks to: Dr. Toni L. Carrell, Friends <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos National Museum, 39 Condesa<br />
Road, Santa Fe, NM 87508<br />
*For U.S. residents, support <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Museum may be tax-deductible<br />
if you join via Friends <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos National<br />
Museum, our affiliated institution and registered 501 (c) (3).<br />
64 www.timespub.tc
astrolabe newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos National Museum<br />
Many Museum visitors have an interest in and questions about <strong>the</strong> salt industry. A new exhibit is planned to focus on that period <strong>of</strong> history.<br />
One is Silver, <strong>the</strong> O<strong>the</strong>r Gold<br />
Plans are to build a new Museum while enhancing <strong>the</strong> original.<br />
By Lisa Turnbow-Talbot ~ Images Courtesy Turks & Caicos National Museum Foundation<br />
There has been a great deal <strong>of</strong> attention recently regarding <strong>the</strong> fundraising for a new building to house<br />
<strong>the</strong> National Museum in Providenciales. It is important to clarify that this is an extension <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Museum<br />
on Grand Turk and not a replacement. Grand Turk is <strong>the</strong> site <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> original National Museum and will<br />
continue to thrive with continued funding and participation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> community and supporters. Museums<br />
are a part <strong>of</strong> a system <strong>of</strong> historic preservation, so we would like our supporters to understand that while<br />
a new building is in <strong>the</strong> works for Providenciales, it is an extension <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> facility on Grand Turk, as is any<br />
part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> National Museum—a system.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 65
astrolabe newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos National Museum<br />
This photo shows US Vice President Lyndon Johnson shaking hands with astronaut John Glenn at <strong>the</strong> Grand Turk Airport on February 23, 1962.<br />
Programs and events at <strong>the</strong> National Museum’s<br />
Grand Turk location have been revitalized over <strong>the</strong> last<br />
few years to increase community involvement. The feature<br />
event <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> year was July’s cook-<strong>of</strong>f competition,<br />
“Grub, Grill and Good <strong>Times</strong>.” The annual Museum Day<br />
will be held on November 2, <strong>2019</strong>. We continue to <strong>of</strong>fer<br />
a monthly Children’s Club, movie night and Evening with<br />
<strong>the</strong> Experts. All <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se programs are purposed to raise<br />
funds for <strong>the</strong> Grand Turk museum and increase community<br />
involvement and awareness.<br />
Starting in September <strong>2019</strong> and continuing into 2020,<br />
we will begin implementing upgrades to existing exhibits<br />
and adding new ones on Grand Turk. This will enhance<br />
<strong>the</strong> museum’s focus on <strong>the</strong> history <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong>.<br />
The Lucayan Room, which includes invaluable artifacts<br />
from that time period, will be moved downstairs. The<br />
Native American people that were <strong>the</strong> original inhabitants<br />
are a significant part <strong>of</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> history<br />
and we want <strong>the</strong> area to be more accessible to visitors.<br />
The duho, paddle and o<strong>the</strong>r artifacts will have new display<br />
cases, with additional information on <strong>the</strong> Lucayans’<br />
lifestyle from new studies will be included.<br />
A new Salt Industry exhibit will also be added downstairs.<br />
The museum has many old photos from <strong>the</strong> Salt<br />
Industry era and we find that our visitors—both locals<br />
and tourists—have an interest and many questions. This<br />
exhibit will focus on <strong>the</strong> families that were a part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
industry, with information about <strong>the</strong> slavery period and<br />
how <strong>the</strong> abolishment <strong>of</strong> slavery changed <strong>the</strong> industry and<br />
those who continued to work in <strong>the</strong> salt ponds. We are<br />
also developing educational material to enhance all learning<br />
experiences.<br />
The John Glenn exhibit will also be moved downstairs<br />
and expanded to have a child-friendly space and solar<br />
system learning center. The importance that Grand Turk<br />
played in this historical event will be highlighted.<br />
Moving <strong>the</strong>se exhibits will allow us to have a space for<br />
<strong>the</strong> new People <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> exhibit. This presentation<br />
will include a kiosk where visitors can select a specific<br />
topic and will be educated with storytelling by those<br />
involved, including pictures, articles and information. The<br />
subjects will include: Boat Building, Salt Industry, Island<br />
Music, Everyday Life, Food <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong>, Navy Base and<br />
more.<br />
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astrolabe newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos National Museum<br />
Programs and events at<br />
<strong>the</strong> Museum’s Grand Turk location<br />
have been revitalized over<br />
<strong>the</strong> last few years to increase<br />
community involvement. The<br />
feature event <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> year was<br />
July’s cook-<strong>of</strong>f competition,<br />
“Grub, Grill and Good <strong>Times</strong>.”<br />
The annual Museum Day will<br />
be held on November 2, <strong>2019</strong>.<br />
We continue to <strong>of</strong>fer a monthly<br />
Children’s Club, movie night<br />
and Evening with <strong>the</strong> Experts.<br />
All <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se programs are<br />
purposed to raise funds for<br />
<strong>the</strong> Grand Turk museum and<br />
increase community involvement<br />
and awareness.<br />
Starting in September<br />
<strong>2019</strong>, we will begin implementing upgrades to existing<br />
exhibits and adding new ones on Grand Turk. This will<br />
enhance <strong>the</strong> Museum’s focus on <strong>the</strong> history <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong>.<br />
The Lucayan Room, which includes invaluable artifacts<br />
from that time period, will be moved downstairs. The<br />
Native American people that were <strong>the</strong> original inhabitants<br />
are a significant part <strong>of</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> history<br />
and we want <strong>the</strong> area to be more accessible to visitors.<br />
The duho, paddle and o<strong>the</strong>r artifacts will have new display<br />
cases, with additional information on <strong>the</strong> Lucayans’<br />
lifestyle from new studies included.<br />
A new Salt Industry exhibit will also be added downstairs.<br />
The museum has many old photos from <strong>the</strong> salt<br />
industry era and we find that our visitors—both locals<br />
and tourists—have an interest and many questions. This<br />
exhibit will focus on <strong>the</strong> families that were a part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
industry, with information about <strong>the</strong> slavery period and<br />
how <strong>the</strong> abolishment <strong>of</strong> slavery changed <strong>the</strong> industry and<br />
those who continued to work in <strong>the</strong> salt ponds. We are<br />
also developing educational material to enhance all learning<br />
experiences.<br />
The John Glenn exhibit will be moved downstairs and<br />
expanded to have a child-friendly space and solar system<br />
learning center. The importance that Grand Turk played<br />
in this historical event will be highlighted.<br />
Moving <strong>the</strong>se exhibits will allow us to have a space<br />
This 1979 photograph shows JAGS McCartney (center) with a group including <strong>the</strong> pilot after <strong>the</strong><br />
inaugural flight <strong>of</strong> Air Florida at <strong>the</strong> Grand Turk International Airport. He is one <strong>of</strong> many TCI leaders<br />
to be featured in <strong>the</strong> Museum’s new History <strong>of</strong> Governance exhibit.<br />
for <strong>the</strong> new People <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> exhibit. This presentation<br />
will include a kiosk where visitors can select a topic<br />
and be educated with storytelling by those involved,<br />
including pictures, articles and information. The subjects<br />
will include: Boat Building, Salt Industry, Island Music,<br />
Everyday Life, Food <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong>, Navy Base and more.<br />
We will be adding a History <strong>of</strong> Governance exhibit that<br />
will focus on TCI’s modern self-governance, specifically<br />
<strong>the</strong> Chief Ministers and Premiers from 1976 to present.<br />
This room will include pictures and brief biographies <strong>of</strong><br />
TCI leaders. It will also include information about historical<br />
moments and changes in government. An education<br />
supplement will also be developed for this exhibit.<br />
The Molasses Reef Wreck exhibits will be revitalized.<br />
They will remain in <strong>the</strong> main salon <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ground floor.<br />
The goal is to update <strong>the</strong> Museum to improve and<br />
enhance <strong>the</strong> overall visitor experience and increase <strong>the</strong><br />
opportunities and ways that everyone can explore and<br />
learn. Increased use <strong>of</strong> technology will benefit all age<br />
groups. Interactive exhibits make <strong>the</strong> learning experience<br />
more personable and memorable.<br />
It is critical to mention that <strong>the</strong> Museum is a nonpr<strong>of</strong>it<br />
organization and not directly supported or a part<br />
<strong>of</strong> government. This is a common misconception. There<br />
will not be a National Museum on ei<strong>the</strong>r island without <strong>the</strong><br />
valuable financial assistance <strong>of</strong> our loyal supporters. We<br />
are building a new museum but keeping <strong>the</strong> old, for “One<br />
is silver and <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r gold.” a<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 67
astrolabe newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos National Museum<br />
Museum Matters<br />
Fundraising gala<br />
In <strong>the</strong> presence <strong>of</strong> Hon. Premier Sharlene Cartwright-<br />
Robinson, Hon. Derek Taylor and Hon. Mike Eman,<br />
former prime minister <strong>of</strong> Aruba, <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos<br />
<strong>Islands</strong> National Museum Foundation (TCNMF) held its<br />
sold-out gala. The inaugural event took place at <strong>the</strong><br />
beautiful Shore Club, sponsored by Stan Hartling and<br />
The Hartling Group. Its purpose was to launch <strong>the</strong> fundraising<br />
campaign for <strong>the</strong> new National Museum facility<br />
on Providenciales under <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>me, “Building for <strong>the</strong><br />
Future, to Protect <strong>the</strong> Past.”<br />
A specially-created TCI cultural show entertained gala guests.<br />
awards for <strong>the</strong>ir 27 years <strong>of</strong> volunteering on <strong>the</strong> Board<br />
<strong>of</strong> Directors and were presented with plaques made<br />
from <strong>the</strong> last three pieces <strong>of</strong> oak left over from <strong>the</strong><br />
Museum’s Grandfa<strong>the</strong>r Clock and executive pens made<br />
<strong>of</strong> hurricane-damaged trees from <strong>the</strong> museum garden.<br />
We say “Thank You” to our many sponsors: The<br />
Hartling Group (The Shore Club, The Palms and<br />
The Sands), Ron Shaw, Karen Whitt, Martin Davies,<br />
Graceway IGA, Jackson Family Wines, TCI’s Ministry <strong>of</strong><br />
Tourism, Gilley’s Enterprises, Turks & Caicos Banking<br />
Company, Turks & Caicos Hotel & Tourism Association,<br />
Ritz-Carlton, Amanyara, Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos<br />
Collection, Grace Bay Resorts, Grace Bay Foundation,<br />
The Shore Club was <strong>the</strong> venue for <strong>the</strong> Museum’s fund-raising gala.<br />
The gala was a resounding success and raised over<br />
$200,000! Funds came from ticket sales, event sponsorship,<br />
advertising, a silent auction, sale <strong>of</strong> engraved<br />
pavers and donations. This included a generous<br />
$100,000 from Martin and Donna Seim (son <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Museum’s original founder and board director, respectively)<br />
to name <strong>the</strong> main gallery in honor <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> late Nils<br />
and Gre<strong>the</strong> Seim.<br />
During dinner, TCI cultural legend David Bowen and<br />
friends stunned <strong>the</strong> audience with a unique cultural<br />
show put toge<strong>the</strong>r for <strong>the</strong> gala. It included dancing,<br />
singing and storytelling about family, fishing, bush<br />
medicine and times past, enhanced by <strong>the</strong> beautiful<br />
voice <strong>of</strong> TCI songbird Barbara Johnson.<br />
TCNMF Board Members Hon. Derek Taylor, Dr. Don<br />
Keith and Thomas Saunders all received long-service<br />
Hon. Premier Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson presents a plaque to<br />
Hon. Derek Taylor for his long service to <strong>the</strong> Museum.<br />
Beaches Turks & Caicos, Wymara, Ocean Club, Fortis<br />
TCI, Turk’s Head Brewery, Price Waterhouse Coopers,<br />
Turks & Caicos So<strong>the</strong>by’s, Clearwater Capital, ERA<br />
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astrolabe newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos National Museum<br />
Coralie Properties, The Agency, Intercaribbean Airways,<br />
Olympic Construction Ltd., Projectech, Spa Tropique,<br />
High Point Resort Orlando, Grace Bay Car Rentals and<br />
Grace Bay Paint and Supply. Additionally, we appreciate<br />
<strong>the</strong> TCNMF team <strong>of</strong> pr<strong>of</strong>essionals and volunteers,<br />
with special mention to Vanessa Pateman for her design<br />
work on <strong>the</strong> commemorative booklet and banners, and<br />
<strong>the</strong> Krieble Foundation for <strong>the</strong>ir incredible support<br />
spanning over a decade. a<br />
Photos By Sean Brady<br />
Back in <strong>the</strong> day<br />
The third annual Museum Day event, “Back in <strong>the</strong> Day,”<br />
was successfully held on June 21, <strong>2019</strong>. Attendees<br />
stepped into <strong>the</strong> Caicos Heritage Homestead and were<br />
transported to <strong>the</strong> last century. They had <strong>the</strong> opportunity<br />
to observe, learn about and participate in many<br />
aspects <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> traditional lifestyle typical to <strong>the</strong> early/<br />
mid-1900s.<br />
Young participants learn how to make music with <strong>the</strong> ripsaw from<br />
TCI legend Zeus Butterfield.<br />
Handfield, Brenda Clare, Bill Clare, Cheryl Foreman,<br />
Pastor Goldston Williams, James (JJ) Parker, Dwight<br />
Myrie, Almartha Thomas, Lindsay Butterfield (Zeus),<br />
Alfred Robinson and Vaughn Hinds, Arthur Dean,<br />
Jahvian Braithwaite, Rachael Harvey, Abiola Streete,<br />
Shirley Atkins, Leeward Methodist Church Women’s<br />
Fellowship, Clement Howell Tourism Club, Enid Capron<br />
Primary School Rip Saw Band a<br />
Photos By Preston Dickenson<br />
Daphne Forbes demonstrates <strong>the</strong> traditional art <strong>of</strong> straw-weaving<br />
for <strong>the</strong> Back in <strong>the</strong> Day event.<br />
We say “thank you” to our sponsors: Department <strong>of</strong><br />
Culture, Turks & Caicos Tourist Board, Turks & Caicos<br />
National Trust, TC Marina, Turks Head Brewery, T&C<br />
Refreshments, Graceway IGA, CBMS Ltd., Island Bargains,<br />
International Waste Water Treatment Technologies Ltd.,<br />
Friends <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Arts, Royal Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> Police<br />
Force Grace Bay Branch, Provo Water Company Ltd.<br />
Thanks also to <strong>the</strong> Back in <strong>the</strong> Day team and volunteers:<br />
Emily Malcolm, Daphne Forbes, June Hawkins,<br />
Jane (Oleta) Missick and Alveria Duncombe, Ba<strong>the</strong>l<br />
Memories <strong>of</strong> summer camp <strong>2019</strong><br />
There were many first-time experiences for our campers<br />
at <strong>the</strong> Museum’s <strong>2019</strong> Living History Summer Camp in<br />
The Village at Grace Bay, Providenciales. The making <strong>of</strong><br />
ice cream using a hand-cranked ice cream maker with<br />
Mr. Simmons was a delicious memory. Ano<strong>the</strong>r was <strong>the</strong><br />
hydroponics farm; campers were fascinated with <strong>the</strong><br />
concept and had many questions for Mr. Harrison. The<br />
visit to <strong>the</strong> desalination plant at Beaches Resort was<br />
ano<strong>the</strong>r first, giving campers an even greater appreciation<br />
for water, our scare but vital resource.<br />
However, corn, with its origins attributed to <strong>the</strong><br />
indigenous people <strong>of</strong> this region <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> world, was <strong>the</strong><br />
big story <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> week. Each camper planted <strong>the</strong>ir own<br />
corn seeds and took <strong>the</strong>m home to nurture into plants.<br />
They learned how to grind corn to make grits, roast<br />
corn on <strong>the</strong> fire and <strong>of</strong> course, pop it. Learning traditional<br />
dance steps from Mr. Bowen that culminated in<br />
a dance party was loads <strong>of</strong> fun, as was learning and<br />
playing <strong>the</strong> game <strong>of</strong> cricket with Coach Daryl. We did<br />
make time to enjoy a picnic on Little Water Cay and<br />
learn about <strong>the</strong> iguanas and mangroves.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 69
astrolabe newsletter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos National Museum<br />
Liv’s Kitchen (Olivia Smith) took home <strong>the</strong> bragging<br />
rights <strong>of</strong> having <strong>the</strong> best barbeque chicken and best<br />
conch fritters on Grand Turk. The event was brought<br />
home with <strong>the</strong> soulful music <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Island Vibes Band.<br />
We say special thank you to all <strong>of</strong> our sponsors:<br />
TCI Government, specifically <strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong> Tourism,<br />
Blue Water Divers, Bohio Drift Villa, Exclusive Escapes,<br />
Grand Turk Divers, Humpback Dive Shack, Jack Shack,<br />
Margaritaville, Morris Cottingham, Oasis Divers, Osprey<br />
Gardening Day was a big success at <strong>the</strong> Museum’s Living History<br />
Summer Camp.<br />
We say thank you to our sponsors and all who made<br />
this year’s camp <strong>the</strong> success that it was: Turks & Caicos<br />
Banking Company, Donna Seim, Mario Smith and <strong>the</strong><br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Agriculture, Turks & Caicos National<br />
Trust, Turks & Caicos Cricket Association, Beaches<br />
Resort, Sunshine Nursery, David Bowen, Ian Harrison,<br />
Dekkel Simmons, Blovena Greene, Lloyd Stubbs, Ron<br />
Higgs, Tatiana Stubbs, Witlene Williams, Guilmese<br />
Gustave and Thania Phanord.<br />
Photos By Candianne Williams<br />
Grub, grill and good-times<br />
The first annual “Grub, Grill and Good-<strong>Times</strong>” cooking<br />
contest event was held on Grand Turk on July 20, <strong>2019</strong>.<br />
It was a huge success, as Front Street was transformed<br />
into a barbeque/jerk chicken and conch fritter competitive<br />
cook-<strong>of</strong>f venue.<br />
There was fun to be had whe<strong>the</strong>r or not you were involved in <strong>the</strong><br />
cooking contest.<br />
Hotel, Salt Raker, Turks Head Brewery, and <strong>the</strong> Sand<br />
Bar. Thank you to <strong>the</strong> TCNM team on Grand Turk for<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir hard work and dedication towards making this<br />
event a success. a<br />
Photos By Vanessa Pateman<br />
Stories By Michael Pateman and Candianne Williams<br />
Island Vibes Band entertained <strong>the</strong> crowd at <strong>the</strong> “Grub, Grill and<br />
Good-<strong>Times</strong>” cooking contest event.<br />
70 www.timespub.tc
about <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong><br />
Map provided courtesy Wavey Line Publishing. Their navigation charts and decorative and historic maps <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>, <strong>the</strong><br />
Bahamas, and Hispaniola are available in shops throughout <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong>. Visit www.amnautical.com.<br />
Where we are<br />
The Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> lie some 575 miles sou<strong>the</strong>ast<br />
<strong>of</strong> Miami — approximately 1 1/2 hours flying time —<br />
with <strong>the</strong> Bahamas about 30 miles to <strong>the</strong> northwest and<br />
<strong>the</strong> Dominican Republic some 100 miles to <strong>the</strong> sou<strong>the</strong>ast.<br />
The country consists <strong>of</strong> two island groups separated<br />
by <strong>the</strong> 22-mile wide Columbus Passage. To <strong>the</strong> west are<br />
<strong>the</strong> Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>: West Caicos, Providenciales, North<br />
Caicos, Middle Caicos, East Caicos, and South Caicos. To<br />
<strong>the</strong> east are <strong>the</strong> Turks <strong>Islands</strong>: Grand Turk and Salt Cay.<br />
The Turks & Caicos total 166 square miles <strong>of</strong> land<br />
area on eight islands and 40 small cays. The country’s<br />
population is approximately 36,500.<br />
Getting here<br />
There are international airports on Grand Turk,<br />
Providenciales, and South Caicos, with domestic airports<br />
on all <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> islands except East Caicos.<br />
At this time, all <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> major international carriers<br />
arrive and depart from Providenciales International<br />
Airport. American Airlines flies from Miami, Charlotte,<br />
Chicago, Dallas, New York/JFK and Philadelphia. JetBlue<br />
Airways <strong>of</strong>fers service from Fort Lauderdale, Boston<br />
and New York/JFK. Southwest Airlines travels to Fort<br />
Lauderdale. Delta Airlines flies from Atlanta and New<br />
York/JFK. United Airlines travels from Chicago and<br />
Newark. WestJet travels from Toronto. Air Canada <strong>of</strong>fer<br />
flights from Toronto. British Airways travels from London/<br />
Gatwick via Antigua.<br />
72 www.timespub.tc
Bahamasair and InterCaribbean Airways fly to Nassau,<br />
Bahamas. Flights to: Antigua; Dominica; Cap Haitien<br />
and Port Au Prince, Haiti; Kingston and Montego Bay,<br />
Jamaica; Miami, Florida; Puerto Plata and Santo Domingo,<br />
Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Lucia; St.<br />
Maarten; Santiago, Cuba; and Tortola are available on<br />
InterCaribbean Airways, while Caicos Express travels to<br />
Cap Haitien daily. (Schedules are current as <strong>of</strong> August<br />
<strong>2019</strong> and subject to change.)<br />
Inter-island service is provided by InterCaribbean<br />
Airways, Caicos Express Airways and Global Airways. Sea<br />
and air freight services operate from Florida.<br />
Language<br />
English.<br />
Time zone<br />
Eastern Standard Time (EST)/Daylight Savings Time<br />
observed.<br />
Currency<br />
The United States dollar. The Treasury also issues a Turks<br />
& Caicos crown and quarter. Travellers cheques in U.S.<br />
dollars are widely accepted and o<strong>the</strong>r currency can be<br />
changed at local banks. American Express, VISA, and<br />
MasterCard are welcomed at many locations.<br />
Climate<br />
The average year-round temperature is 83ºF (28ºC). The<br />
hottest months are September and October, when <strong>the</strong><br />
temperature can reach 90 to 95ºF (33 to 35ºC). However,<br />
<strong>the</strong> consistent easterly trade winds temper <strong>the</strong> heat and<br />
keep life comfortable.<br />
Casual resort and leisure wear is accepted attire for<br />
daytime; light sweaters or jackets may be necessary on<br />
some breezy evenings. It’s wise to wear protective clothing<br />
and a sunhat and use waterpro<strong>of</strong> sunscreen when out<br />
in <strong>the</strong> tropical sun.<br />
Entry requirements<br />
Passport. A valid onward or return ticket is also required.<br />
Customs formalities<br />
Visitors may bring in duty free for <strong>the</strong>ir own use one carton<br />
<strong>of</strong> cigarettes or cigars, one bottle <strong>of</strong> liquor or wine,<br />
and some perfume. The importation <strong>of</strong> all firearms including<br />
those charged with compressed air without prior<br />
approval in writing from <strong>the</strong> Commissioner <strong>of</strong> Police is<br />
strictly forbidden. Spear guns, Hawaiian slings, controlled<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 73
drugs, and pornography are also illegal.<br />
Returning residents may bring in $400 worth <strong>of</strong><br />
merchandise per person duty free. A duty <strong>of</strong> 10% to<br />
60% is charged on most imported goods along with a<br />
7% customs processing fee and forms a major source <strong>of</strong><br />
government revenue.<br />
Transportation<br />
A valid driver’s license from home is suitable when renting<br />
vehicles. A government tax <strong>of</strong> 12% is levied on all<br />
rental contracts. (Insurance is extra.) Driving is on <strong>the</strong><br />
left-hand side <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> road, with traffic flow controlled by<br />
round-abouts at major junctions. Please don’t drink and<br />
drive! Taxis are abundant throughout <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> and<br />
many resorts <strong>of</strong>fer shuttle service between popular visitor<br />
areas. Scooter, motorcycle, and bicycle rentals are<br />
also available.<br />
Telecommunications<br />
FLOW Ltd. provides land lines and superfast broadband<br />
Internet service. Mobile service is on a LTE 4G network,<br />
including pre- and post-paid cellular phones. Most resorts<br />
and some stores and restaurants <strong>of</strong>fer wireless Internet<br />
connection. Digicel operates mobile networks, with<br />
a full suite <strong>of</strong> LTE 4G service. FLOW is <strong>the</strong> local carrier<br />
for CDMA roaming on US networks such as Verizon and<br />
Sprint. North American visitors with GSM cellular handsets<br />
and wireless accounts with AT&T or Cingular can<br />
arrange international roaming.<br />
Electricity<br />
FortisTCI supplies electricity at a frequency <strong>of</strong> 60HZ,<br />
and ei<strong>the</strong>r single phase or three phase at one <strong>of</strong> three<br />
standard voltages for residential or commercial service.<br />
FortisTCI continues to invest in a robust and resilient grid<br />
to ensure <strong>the</strong> highest level <strong>of</strong> reliability to customers. The<br />
company is integrating renewable energy into its grid and<br />
provides options for customers to participate in two solar<br />
energy programs.<br />
Departure tax<br />
US $60. It is typically included in <strong>the</strong> price <strong>of</strong> your airline<br />
ticket.<br />
Courier service<br />
Delivery service is provided by FedEx, with <strong>of</strong>fices on<br />
Providenciales and Grand Turk, and DHL. UPS service is<br />
limited to incoming delivery.<br />
Postal service<br />
The Post Office and Philatelic Bureau in Providenciales is<br />
located downtown on Airport Road. In Grand Turk, <strong>the</strong><br />
Post Office and Philatelic Bureau are on Church Folly. The<br />
<strong>Islands</strong> are known for <strong>the</strong>ir varied and colorful stamp<br />
issues.<br />
Media<br />
Multi-channel satellite television is received from <strong>the</strong> U.S.<br />
and Canada and transmitted via cable or over <strong>the</strong> air.<br />
Local station WIV-TV broadcasts on Channel 4 and Island<br />
EyeTV on Channel 5. People’s Television <strong>of</strong>fers 75 digitally<br />
transmitted television stations, along with local news<br />
and talk shows on Channel 8. There are also a number <strong>of</strong><br />
local radio stations, magazines, and newspapers.<br />
Medical services<br />
There are no endemic tropical diseases in TCI. There are<br />
large, modern hospitals on Grand Turk and Providenciales.<br />
Both hospitals <strong>of</strong>fer a full range <strong>of</strong> services including:<br />
24/7 emergency room, operating <strong>the</strong>aters, diagnostic<br />
74 www.timespub.tc
Brew ad May 2017_Layout 1 5/11/17 10:51 AM Page 1<br />
imaging, maternity suites, dialysis suites, blood bank,<br />
physio<strong>the</strong>rapy, and dentistry.<br />
In addition, several general practitioners operate in<br />
<strong>the</strong> country, and <strong>the</strong>re is a recompression chamber, along<br />
with a number <strong>of</strong> private pharmacies.<br />
Immigration<br />
A resident’s permit is required to live in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong>. A<br />
work permit and business license are also required to<br />
work and/or establish a business. These are generally<br />
granted to those <strong>of</strong>fering skills, experience, and qualifications<br />
not widely available on <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong>. Priority is given<br />
to enterprises that will provide employment and training<br />
for T&C Islanders.<br />
Government/Legal system<br />
TCI is a British Crown colony. There is a Queen-appointed<br />
Governor, HE Nigel John Dakin. He presides over an executive<br />
council formed by <strong>the</strong> elected local government.<br />
Lady Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson is <strong>the</strong> country’s first<br />
woman premier, leading a majority People’s Democratic<br />
Movement (PDM) House <strong>of</strong> Assembly.<br />
The legal system is based upon English Common<br />
Law and administered by a resident Chief Justice, Chief<br />
Magistrate, and Deputy Magistrates. Judges <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Court<br />
<strong>of</strong> Appeal visit <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> twice a year and <strong>the</strong>re is a final<br />
Right <strong>of</strong> Appeal to Her Majesty’s Privy Council in London.<br />
Taxes<br />
There are currently no direct taxes on ei<strong>the</strong>r income<br />
or capital for individuals or companies. There are no<br />
exchange controls. Indirect taxation comprises customs<br />
duties and fees, stamp duty, taxes on accommodations,<br />
restaurants, vehicle rentals, o<strong>the</strong>r services and gasoline,<br />
as well as business license fees and departure taxes.<br />
Economy<br />
Historically, TCI’s economy relied on <strong>the</strong> export <strong>of</strong> salt.<br />
Currently, tourism, <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fshore finance industry, and<br />
fishing generate <strong>the</strong> most private sector income. The<br />
<strong>Islands</strong>’ main exports are lobster and conch. Practically<br />
all consumer goods and foodstuffs are imported.<br />
The Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> are recognised as an<br />
important <strong>of</strong>fshore financial centre, <strong>of</strong>fering services<br />
such as company formation, <strong>of</strong>fshore insurance, banking,<br />
trusts, limited partnerships, and limited life companies.<br />
The Financial Services Commission regulates <strong>the</strong> industry<br />
and spearheads <strong>the</strong> development <strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>fshore legislation.<br />
Turk’s Head Brewery<br />
Brewery Tours Monday-Friday<br />
11AM, 1PM, 3PM<br />
$15/pp<br />
Enjoy a complimentary selection <strong>of</strong> local craft beer<br />
after your tour!<br />
Email tours@turksheadbeer.com<br />
Call 649.941.3637 x 1005 to book<br />
www.turksheadbrewery.tc<br />
52 Universal Dr.<br />
Providenciales, TCI<br />
TOUR TASTE SHOP<br />
Island Auto_Layout 1 12/12/17 12:49 PM Page 1<br />
ISLAND AUTO RENTALS<br />
For Quality & Reliable Service<br />
& Competitive Prices<br />
The Cruise Center, Grand Turk<br />
Neville Adams<br />
Tel: (649) 946-2042<br />
Cell: (649) 232-0933 or (649) 231-4214<br />
Email: nevilleadams@hotmail.com<br />
Providenciales<br />
Levoi Marshall<br />
Cell: (649) 441-6737<br />
Email: levoimarshall86@gmail.com<br />
Web: islandautorentalstci.com<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 75
People<br />
Citizens <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong> are termed<br />
“Belongers” and are primarily descendants <strong>of</strong> African<br />
slaves who were brought to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> to work in <strong>the</strong><br />
salt ponds and cotton plantations. The country’s large<br />
expatriate population includes Canadians, Americans,<br />
Brits and Europeans, along with Haitians, Jamaicans,<br />
Dominicans, Bahamians, Indians, and Filipinos.<br />
Churches<br />
Churches are <strong>the</strong> center <strong>of</strong> community life and <strong>the</strong>re<br />
are many faiths represented in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> including:<br />
Adventist, Anglican, Assembly <strong>of</strong> God, Baha’i, Baptist,<br />
Catholic, Church <strong>of</strong> God, Episcopal, Jehovah’s Witnesses,<br />
Methodist and Pentecostal. Visitors are always welcome.<br />
Pets<br />
Incoming pets must have an import permit, veterinary<br />
health certificate, vaccination certificate, and lab test<br />
results to be submitted at <strong>the</strong> port <strong>of</strong> entry to obtain<br />
clearance from <strong>the</strong> TCI Department <strong>of</strong> Agriculture, Animal<br />
Health Services.<br />
National symbols<br />
The National Bird is <strong>the</strong> Brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis).<br />
The National Plant is Island hea<strong>the</strong>r (Limonium<br />
bahamense) found nowhere else in <strong>the</strong> world. The<br />
National Tree is <strong>the</strong> Caribbean pine (Pinus caribaea var.<br />
www.islandergingerbeer.com<br />
All Natural &<br />
Gluten Free<br />
Made with family recipes that date back<br />
centuries, Islander, <strong>the</strong> original Turks and<br />
Caicos alcoholic ginger beer, is available on<br />
Providenciales at <strong>the</strong> Graceway Gourmet and<br />
<strong>the</strong> IGA, as well as local bars and restaurants.<br />
bahamensis). The National Costume consists <strong>of</strong> white cotton<br />
dresses tied at <strong>the</strong> waist for women and simple shirts<br />
and loose pants for men, with straw hats. Colors representing<br />
<strong>the</strong> various islands are displayed on <strong>the</strong> sleeves<br />
and bases. The National Song is “This Land <strong>of</strong> Ours” by<br />
<strong>the</strong> late Rev. E.C. Howell, PhD. Peas and Hominy (Grits)<br />
with Dry Conch is revered as symbolic island fare.<br />
Going green<br />
TCI Waste Disposal Services currently <strong>of</strong>fers recycling<br />
services through weekly collection <strong>of</strong> recyclable aluminum,<br />
glass, and plastic. Single-use plastic bags have been<br />
banned country-wide as <strong>of</strong> May 1, <strong>2019</strong>.<br />
Recreation<br />
Sporting activities are centered around <strong>the</strong> water. Visitors<br />
can choose from deep-sea, reef, or bonefishing, sailing,<br />
glass-bottom boat and semi-sub excursions, windsurfing,<br />
waterskiing, parasailing, sea kayaking, snorkelling, scuba<br />
diving, kiteboarding, stand up paddleboarding, and<br />
beachcombing. Pristine reefs, abundant marine life, and<br />
excellent visibility make TCI a world-class diving destination.<br />
Tennis and golf—<strong>the</strong>re is an 18 hole championship<br />
course on Providenciales—are also popular.<br />
The <strong>Islands</strong> are an ecotourist’s paradise. Visitors can<br />
enjoy unspoilt wilderness and native flora and fauna in 33<br />
national parks, nature reserves, sanctuaries, and areas <strong>of</strong><br />
historical interest. The National Trust provides trail guides<br />
to several hiking trails, as well as guided tours <strong>of</strong> major<br />
historical sites. There is an excellent national museum on<br />
Grand Turk, with an auxillary branch on Providenciales. A<br />
scheduled ferry and a selection <strong>of</strong> tour operators make it<br />
easy to take day trips to <strong>the</strong> outer islands.<br />
O<strong>the</strong>r land-based activities include bicycling, horseback<br />
riding and football (soccer). Personal trainers are<br />
available to motivate you, working out <strong>of</strong> several fitness<br />
centres. You will also find a variety <strong>of</strong> spa and body treatment<br />
services.<br />
Nightlife includes local bands playing island music<br />
at bars and restaurants and some nightclubs. There is<br />
a casino on Providenciales, along with many electronic<br />
gaming parlours. Stargazing is extraordinary!<br />
Shoppers will find Caribbean paintings, T-shirts,<br />
sports and beachwear, and locally made handicrafts,<br />
including straw work and conch crafts. Duty free outlets<br />
sell liquor, jewellery, watches, perfume, lea<strong>the</strong>r goods,<br />
crystal, china, cameras, electronics, brand-name clothing<br />
and accessories, along with Cuban cigars. a<br />
76 www.timespub.tc
where to stay<br />
Grand Turk<br />
range <strong>of</strong> daily rates<br />
US$ (subject to change)<br />
number <strong>of</strong> units<br />
major credit cards<br />
restaurant<br />
bar<br />
air conditioning<br />
phone in unit<br />
television in unit<br />
kitchen in unit<br />
laundry service<br />
pool<br />
on <strong>the</strong> beach<br />
H<br />
The Arches <strong>of</strong> Grand Turk – Tel 649 946 2941 190–210 4 • • • • • • •<br />
Bohio Dive Resort – Tel 649 231 3572/800 494 4301 • Web www.bohioresort.com 170–230 16 • • • • • • • •<br />
Crabtree Apartments – Tel 978 270 1698 • Web www.GrandTurkVacationRental.com 210–250 3 • • • • • •<br />
Manta House – Tel 649 946 1111 • Web www.grandturk-mantahouse.com 110–130 5 • • • • • • •<br />
Osprey Beach Hotel – Tel 649 946 2666 • Web www.ospreybeachhotel.com 90–225 37 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
Pelican House – Tel 649 246 6797 • Web www.pelicanhousegrandturk.com 110-130 3 • • • • •<br />
Salt Raker Inn – Tel 649 946 2260 • Web www.saltrakerinn.com 55–140 13 • • • • • • •<br />
Solomon Porches Guesthouse – Tel 649 946 2776/241 2937 • Fax 649 946 1984 75–100 3 • •<br />
Middle Caicos<br />
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Dragon Cay Resort at Mudjin Harbour – Tel 649 344 4997 • Web www.dragoncayresort.com 325 8 • • • • • • • • •<br />
North Caicos<br />
H<br />
Bottle Creek Lodge – Tel 649 946 7080 • Web www.bottlecreeklodge.com 155–240 3 • •<br />
Caicos Beach Condominiums – Tel 649 241 4778/786 338 9264 • Web www.caicosbeachcondos.com 159–299 8 • • • • • • • •<br />
Cedar Palms Suites – Tel 649 946 7113/649 244 4186 • Web www.oceanbeach.tc 250–300 3 • • • • • • • • •<br />
Flamingo’s Nest – Tel 649 946 7113/649 244 4186 • Web www.oceanbeach.tc 175–340 2 • • • • • • • •<br />
Hollywood Beach Suites - Tel 800 551 2256/649 231 1020 • Web www.hollywoodbeachsuites.com 200–235 4 • • • • • •<br />
JoAnne’s Bed & Breakfast - Tel 649 946 7301 • Web www.turksandcaicos.tc/joannesbnb 80–120 4 • • • •<br />
Palmetto Villa – Tel 649 946 7113/649 244 4186 • Web www.oceanbeach.tc 225–250 1 • • • • • • • •<br />
Pelican Beach Hotel - Tel 649 946 7112 • Web www.pelicanbeach.tc 125–165 14 • • • • • • • •<br />
Pine Cay<br />
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The Meridian Club - Tel 649 946 7758/888 286 7993 • Web www.meridianclub.com 800–1300 13 • • • • • • •<br />
Parrot Cay<br />
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COMO Parrot Cay Resort - Tel 649 946 7788/855 PARROTCAY • www.comohotels.com/parrotcay 550–2850 65 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
Providenciales<br />
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Airport Inn – Tel 649 941 3514 • Web www.airportinntci.com. 140 18 • • • • • • •<br />
Alexandra Resort – Tel 800 284 0699/649 946 5807 • Web www.alexandraresort.com 280–420 99 • • • • • • • • •<br />
The Atrium Resort – Tel 888 592 7885/649 333 0101 • Web www.<strong>the</strong>atriumresorttci.com 159–410 30 • • • • • • • •<br />
Amanyara – Tel 866 941 8133/649 941 8133 • Web www.aman.com 1000–2100 73 • • • • • • • •<br />
Aquamarine Beach Houses – Tel 649 231 4535/905 556 0278 • www.aquamarinebeachhouses.com 200–850 24 • • • • • • • •<br />
Beaches Resort Villages & Spa – Tel 888-BEACHES/649 946 8000 • Web www.beaches.com 325–390AI 758 • • • • • • • • •<br />
Beach House Turks & Caicos – Tel 649 946 5800/855 946 5800 • Web www.beachchousetci.com 532–638 21 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
BE Beach Enclave – Tel 649 946 5619 • Web www.beachenclave.com see web 24 • • • • • • • •<br />
Blue Haven Resort & Marina – Tel 855 832 7667/649 946 9900 • Web www.bluehaventci.com 250–650 51 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
Caribbean Paradise Inn – Tel 649 946 5020 • Web www.caribbeanparadiseinn.com 162–225 17 • • • • • • • •<br />
Club Med Turkoise – Tel 800 258 2633/649 946 5500 • Web www.clubmed.com 120–225 290 • • • • • • • • •<br />
Coral Gardens on Grace Bay – Tel 649 941 5497/800 787 9115 • Web www.coralgardensongracebay.com 199-449 32 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
Grace Bay Club - Tel 800 946 5757/649 946 5050 • Web www.gracebayclub.com 650–1750 75 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
Grace Bay Suites – Tel 649 941 7447 • Web www.GraceBaySuites.com 99–195 24 • • • • • • • •<br />
Harbour Club Villas – Tel 649 941 5748/305 434 8568 • Web www.harbourclubvillas.com 210–240 6 • • • • •<br />
The Inn at Grace Bay – Tel 649 432 8633 • Web www.innatgracebay.com 179–379 48 • • • • • • •<br />
Kokomo Botanical Gardens - Tel 649 941 3121• Web www.aliveandwellresorts.com 169–299 16 • • • • •<br />
Le Vele - Tel 649 941 8800/888 272 4406 • Web www.leveleresort.com 303–630 22 • • • • • • • •<br />
La Vista Azul – Tel 649 946 8522/866 519 9618 • Web www.lvaresort.com 215–375 78 • • • • • • •<br />
The Lodgings – Tel 649 941 8107/242 6722 • Web www.hotelturksandcaicos.com 175–255 15 • • • • • •<br />
Neptune Villas – Tel 649 331 4328 • Web www.neptunevillastci.com 150–400 10 • • • • • • • • •<br />
Northwest Point Resort • Tel 649 941 5133 • Web www.northwestpointresort.com 196–550 49 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
Ocean Club Resorts - Tel 800 457 8787/649 946 5880 • Web www.oceanclubresorts.com 180–690 191 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
The Palms Turks & Caicos – Tel 649 946 8666/866 877 7256 • Web <strong>the</strong>palmstc.com 595–1700 72 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 77
where to stay<br />
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Providenciales (continued)<br />
Pelican Nest Villa – Tel 649 342 5731 • Web www.pelicannest.tc 429–857 2 • • • • • •<br />
Point Grace – Tel 649 946 5096/888 209 5582 • Web www.pointgrace.com 424–1515 27 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
Ports <strong>of</strong> Call Resort – Tel 888 678 3483/649 946 8888 • Web www.ports<strong>of</strong>callresort.com 135–210 99 • • • • • • •<br />
Queen Angel Resort – Tel 649 941 8771 • Web www.queenangelresort.com 150–575 56 • • • • • • • • •<br />
Reef Residences at Grace Bay – Tel 800 532 8536 • Web www.reefresidence.com 275-385 24 • • • • • • •<br />
The Regent Grand – Tel 877 288 3206/649 941 7770 • Web www.<strong>the</strong>regentgrand.com 495–1100 50 • • • • • • • • •<br />
Royal West Indies Resort – Tel 800 332 4203/649 946 5004 • Web www.royalwestindies.com 180–695 92 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
The Sands at Grace Bay – Tel 877 777 2637/649 946 5199 • Web www.<strong>the</strong>sandsresort.com 175–675 116 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
Seven Stars Resort – Tel 866 570 7777/649 333 7777 – Web www.sevenstarsgracebay.com 365–2400 165 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
The Shore Club – Tel 649 339 8000 – Web www.<strong>the</strong>shoreclubtc.com 465–4650 148 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
Sibonné Beach Hotel – Tel 888 570 2861/649 946 5547 • Web www.sibonne.com 110–375 29 • • • • • • • •<br />
The Somerset on Grace Bay – Tel 649 339 5900/888 386 8770 • Web www.<strong>the</strong>somerset.com 350–1300 53 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
The Tuscany – Tel 866 359 6466/649 941 4667 • Web www.<strong>the</strong>tuscanyresort.com 975–1300 30 • • • • • • • •<br />
The Venetian – Tel 877 277 4793/649 941 3512 • Web www.<strong>the</strong>venetiangracebay.com 695–1175 27 • • • • • • • •<br />
Villa del Mar – Tel 877 345 4890/649 941 5160 • Web www.yourvilladelmar.com 190–440 42 • • • • • • •<br />
Villa Mani – Tel 649 431 4444 • Web www.villamanitci.com 6500–9500 8 • • • • • • •<br />
Villa Renaissance – Tel 649 941 5160/877 345 4890 • www.villarenaissanceturksandcaicos.com 295–650 36 • • • • • • • • •<br />
The Villas at Blue Mountain – Tel 649 941 4255/866 883 5931 • www.villasatbluemountain.com 1200–2500 3 • • • • • • • •<br />
West Bay Club – Tel 855 749 5750/649 946 8550 • Web www.<strong>the</strong>westbayclub.com 235–1163 46 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
Windsong Resort – Tel 649 333 7700/800 WINDSONG • Web www.windsongresort.com 275–925 50 • • • • • • • • •<br />
Wymara Resort & Villas – Tel 888 844 5986 • Web www.wymararesortandvillas.com 315–720 91 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
range <strong>of</strong> daily rates<br />
US$ (subject to change)<br />
number <strong>of</strong> units<br />
major credit cards<br />
restaurant<br />
bar<br />
air conditioning<br />
phone in unit<br />
television in unit<br />
kitchen in unit<br />
laundry service<br />
pool<br />
on <strong>the</strong> beach<br />
Salt Cay<br />
Castaway – Salt Cay – Tel 772 713 9502 • Web www.castawayonsaltcay.com 175–265 4 • • • • •<br />
Genesis Beach House – Tel 561 502 0901 • Web www.Genesisbeachhouse.com 1000–1200W 4 • • • • •<br />
Pirate’s Hideaway B & B – Tel 800 289 5056/649 946 6909 • Web www.saltcay.tc 165–175 4 • • • • • • •<br />
Salt Cay Beach House – Tel 772 713 9502 • Web www.saltcaybeachhouse.blogspot.com 799W 1 • • • • • •<br />
Trade Winds Guest Suites – Tel 649 232 1009 • Web www.tradewinds.tc 925–1325W 5 • • • • •<br />
Twilight Zone Cottage – Tel 772 713 9502 • Web www.twilightzonecottage.blogspot.com 499W 1 • • • •<br />
The Villas <strong>of</strong> Salt Cay – Tel 772 713 9502 • Web www.villas<strong>of</strong>saltcay.com 150–475 5 • • • • • • • •<br />
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South Caicos<br />
East Bay Resort – Tel 844 260 8328/649 232 6444 • Web eastbayresort.com 198–1775 86 • • • • • • • • • •<br />
Sailrock South Caicos – Tel 855 335 72513/649 941 2121 • Web sailrockliving.com 600–800 6 • • • • • • • • •<br />
South Caicos Ocean & Beach Resort – Tel 877 774 5486/649 946 3219<br />
Web southcaicos.oceanandbeachresort.com 120–275 24 • • • • •<br />
Hotel & Tourism Association Member<br />
Green Globe Certified<br />
Rates (listed for doubles) do not include Government Accommodation Tax and Service Charge<br />
classified ads<br />
SCOOTER BOBS_Layout 1 8/8/18 10:57 AM Page GBC2017_Layout 1 2/16/17 9:10 AM Page 1<br />
HertzDollar_Layout 1 2/16/17 12:37 PM Page 1<br />
We’re here to<br />
make your holiday<br />
<strong>the</strong> island way...<br />
DEPENDABLE VEHICLE HIRE<br />
SERVICE OFFERED:<br />
Provo & North-Middle Caicos<br />
Office: 946-4684<br />
Amos: 441-2667 (after hours)<br />
Yan: 247-6755 (after hours)<br />
Bob: 231-0262 (after hours)<br />
scooterbobs@gmail.com<br />
www.scooterbobstci.com<br />
Grace Bay Road across from Regent Street<br />
Fun Friendly People<br />
Appreciating Your Business!<br />
941-8500<br />
www.gracebaycarrentals.com<br />
649.941.3910 649.946.4864<br />
Call Us.<br />
Whe<strong>the</strong>r it’s for <strong>the</strong> largest variety <strong>of</strong><br />
vehicles, or <strong>the</strong> better prices and<br />
greater service.<br />
www.hertztci.com www.dollarcartci.com<br />
Open 8am to 5pm 7 days.<br />
After hours call<br />
Barry 332.0012 Patrice 332.8602 Sophia 331.9895<br />
78 www.timespub.tc
classified ads<br />
Forbes Classified changes due_Layout 1 8/9/18 Deluxe 11:51 A Day Spa_Layout 1 5/28/19 12:43 PM Page<br />
FORBES REALTY TCI<br />
Caicu Naniki_Caicu Naniki classified 8/9/18 12:05 PM Page 1<br />
R e j o u v e n a n c e S p a<br />
“Go Beyond Provo”<br />
Find your dream property on North Caicos,<br />
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Call or email us today!<br />
Offering an array <strong>of</strong> luxurious<br />
services both in Spa or Mobile.<br />
Let us bring <strong>the</strong> ultimate spa experience to you<br />
in <strong>the</strong> comfort <strong>of</strong> your villa or hotel.<br />
Tel: +1 (649) 343 6029<br />
deluxedayspatci@gmail.com<br />
www.649luxedayspa.com<br />
Call-Outs<br />
Facial Treatments<br />
For a Beautiful skin<br />
on your special day<br />
r e p a i r - r e f r e s h - r e n e w<br />
6 4 9 - 4 3 2 - 7 5 4 6<br />
Touch <strong>of</strong> Bliss_Layout 1 8/9/18 11:59 AM Page 1<br />
r e j o u v e n a n c e s p a . c o m<br />
www.ForbesRealtyTCI.com<br />
Sara Kaufman cell: 1-649-231-4884<br />
Ernest Forbes cell: 1-649-247-7599<br />
info@ForbesRealtyTCI.com<br />
Community Fellowship Centre<br />
A Life-Changing Experience<br />
Sunday Divine Worship 9 AM<br />
Visitors Welcome!<br />
Tel: 649.941.3484 • Web: cfctci.com<br />
Phone: 649-242-3439 or 649-346-7344<br />
Email: touch<strong>of</strong>bliss@rocketmail.com<br />
Newly located at Caribbean Place<br />
PRIVATE TOURS TO<br />
NORTH & MIDDLE CAICOS &<br />
SOUTH CAICOS.<br />
SWIM LESSONS & SWIM SAFARIS.<br />
STAND-UP-PADDLEBOARD<br />
RENTALS & SALES.<br />
5 STAR TRIP ADVISOR RATING<br />
Stop by Swim & Surf Store at<br />
Caicos Cafe Plaza, Grace Bay.<br />
(649) 432-5000<br />
www.caicunaniki.com<br />
Project1_Layout 1 11/27/18 10:34 PM Page 1<br />
R & K<br />
AUTO<br />
D&Bswift_Layout 1 5/8/18 7:24 AM Page 1<br />
FOR ALL YOUR<br />
RELIABLE AND<br />
AFFORDABLE<br />
RENTAL NEEDS<br />
JOHN GALLEYMORE<br />
Project Management<br />
Estate Management<br />
Homeowner Representation<br />
Concierge<br />
______<br />
compasstci@gmail.com<br />
1 (649) 232 7083<br />
COMPASS Ltd<br />
Home Owner Services & Project Management<br />
Diagnostic Services • Wheel Alignment<br />
Balancing • Tune Ups<br />
T&C Veterinary_Layout 1 8/9/18 2:02 PM Page 1<br />
Exhaust Repairs • A/C Repairs<br />
Radiator Pressure Testing<br />
Ralph Carmichael, Partner<br />
649 242 0063 • 432 2374<br />
Turks & Caicos Veterinary<br />
NEW Hours/Days<br />
Clinic Hours<br />
Monday thru Saturday<br />
9:00am - 12 noon<br />
Vet on duty Mon, Wed, Thur, Sat.<br />
Ocean 24 Breezy Breeze_Layout Ridge (649) 946 4353 1 4/8/19 10:34 AM Page 1<br />
Caring for your pet as though it<br />
were our own since 1981 Email: tcvets@tciway.tc<br />
Our cleaning solutions are made<br />
from biodegradable materials that<br />
aren't harmful to <strong>the</strong> environment.<br />
Find our products throughout <strong>the</strong><br />
Turks & Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>.<br />
Call 244-2526<br />
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www.oceanbreezetci.com<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 79
dining out – providenciales<br />
Amanyara — Amanyara Resort. Tel: 941-8133. Light gourmet<br />
cuisine with menu changing daily. Open 6 to 10 PM.<br />
Angela’s Top O’ The Cove Deli — Suzie Turn, by NAPA.<br />
Tel: 946-4694. New York-style delicatessen. Eat-in, carry-out,<br />
catering. Open daily 7 AM to 5 PM; Sunday 7 AM to 2 PM.<br />
Asú on <strong>the</strong> Beach — Alexandra Resort. Tel: 941-8888. Casual<br />
Caribbean and popular international fare. Open daily for 7:30<br />
AM to 10:30 PM. Service indoors, poolside, and at beach.<br />
Baci Ristorante — Harbour Towne, Turtle Cove. Tel: 941-3044.<br />
Waterfront Italian dining. Brick oven pizza. Popular bar. Open<br />
for lunch Monday to Friday 12 to 2 PM and dinner nightly from<br />
6 to 10 PM. Closed Sunday.<br />
Bay Bistro — Sibonné Beach Hotel. Tel: 946-5396. Oceanfront<br />
dining featuring creative international cuisine. Open daily<br />
7 AM to 10 PM. Weekend brunch. Catering and special events.<br />
Beaches Resort & Spa — The Bight. Tel: 946-8000.<br />
All-inclusive resort. A variety <strong>of</strong> restaurants and bars on premises.<br />
Non-guests can purchase a pass.<br />
Bella Luna Ristorante — Glass House, Grace Bay Road. Tel:<br />
946-5214. Fine Italian dining. Indoor or terrace seating above<br />
tropical garden. Open daily from 5:30 PM. Closed Sunday. Lunch<br />
and pizza in <strong>the</strong> garden. Private catering available.<br />
Big Al’s Island Grill — Salt Mills Plaza. Tel: 941-3797. Wide<br />
selection <strong>of</strong> burgers, steaks, salads, and wraps in a diner-like<br />
setting. Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM.<br />
Bugaloo’s Conch Crawl — Five Cays. Tel: 941-3863. Fresh<br />
local conch and seafood by <strong>the</strong> beach. Rum, buckets <strong>of</strong> beer,<br />
live local bands. Open daily from 11 AM to late.<br />
Cabana Beach Bar & Grill — Ocean Club. Tel: 946-5880.<br />
Casual island fare, burgers, salads, snacks. Open daily from<br />
8 AM to 10 PM. Tropical cocktails with a view <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> sea.<br />
Caicos Bakery — Caicos Café Plaza. Au<strong>the</strong>ntic French boulangerie.<br />
Fresh-baked breads, rolls, croissants, muffins, quiche,<br />
pastries, cakes. Open 7 AM to 4:30 PM daily except Sunday.<br />
Caicos Café — Caicos Café Plaza. Tel: 946-5278.<br />
Mediterranean specialties, grilled local seafood. Fine wines, dining<br />
on <strong>the</strong> deck. Open 6 PM to 10 PM Monday to Saturday.<br />
Chicken Chicken — <strong>Times</strong> Square, downtown Provo. Fast food,<br />
fried chicken, native fare.<br />
Chinson’s Grill Shack — Leeward Highway. Tel: 941-3533.<br />
The <strong>Islands</strong>’ best jerk and barbecue, Jamaican pastries. Open<br />
daily 8 AM to 10 PM; Friday to Midnight.<br />
Club Med — Grace Bay Road. Tel: 946-5500. All-inclusive<br />
resort. Buffet-style dining; live show and disco in <strong>the</strong> evenings.<br />
Non-guests can purchase a daily pass.<br />
Coco Bistro — Grace Bay Road. Tel: 946-5369. Continental<br />
Caribbean cuisine by Chef Stuart Gray under a canopy <strong>of</strong> palms.<br />
Serving dinner from 5:30 PM daily. Look for <strong>the</strong> Cocovan airstream<br />
lounge with garden seating or take-away.<br />
Coconut Grove Restaurant & Lounge — Olympic Plaza,<br />
Downtown. Tel: 247-5610. Casual native fare. Cracked conch,<br />
conch fritters, fried fish. Open daily 11 AM to 10 PM.<br />
Coyaba Restaurant — Bonaventure Crescent. Tel: 946-5186.<br />
Contemporary Caribbean gourmet cuisine in a private tropical<br />
garden setting. Extensive wine list. Dinner nightly from 6 to 10<br />
PM. Closed Tuesday. Reservations recommended.<br />
Crackpot Kitchen — Ports <strong>of</strong> Call. Tel: 2313336. Experience<br />
<strong>the</strong> best <strong>of</strong> au<strong>the</strong>ntic Turks & Caicos and Caribbean cuisines<br />
with local celebrity Chef Nik. Open daily 5 to 10 PM except<br />
Thursday; Happy Hour 5 to 7 PM.<br />
Da Conch Shack — Blue Hills. Tel: 946-8877. Island-fresh seafood<br />
from <strong>the</strong> ocean to your plate. Covered beachfront dining<br />
for lunch and dinner daily from 11 AM.<br />
Danny Buoy’s — Grace Bay Road. Tel: 946-5921. Traditional<br />
American pub fare; imported draught beers. Open for lunch and<br />
dinner daily from 11 AM. Happy Hour specials. Large screen TVs<br />
for sporting events. Karaoke.<br />
The Deck — Seven Stars Resort. Tel: 333-7777. All day dining<br />
and cocktails by <strong>the</strong> water’s edge. Open daily 11 AM to 11 PM.<br />
Live music Friday nights.<br />
Drift — West Bay Club. Tel: 946-8550. Open-air beachfront dining.<br />
Creatively used local ingredients. Full bar. Open daily 7:30<br />
AM to 9:30 PM.<br />
Dune — Windsong Resort. Tel: 333-7700. Private beachfront<br />
dining with limited availability. Fresh fare prepared to perfection.<br />
Open daily.<br />
El Catador Tapas & Bar — Regent Village. Tel: 244-1134.<br />
Au<strong>the</strong>ntic Spanish tapas with a wide mix <strong>of</strong> cold and hot plates<br />
meant for sharing. Fun and lively atmosphere. Open daily from<br />
5 PM.<br />
Element — LeVele Plaza. Tel: 348-6424. Contemporary, creative<br />
cuisine in an elegant setting. Open for dinner Friday to<br />
Wednesday 6:30 to 10:30 PM.<br />
Fairways Bar & Grill — Provo Golf Club. Tel: 946-5833. Dine<br />
overlooking <strong>the</strong> “greens.” Open for breakfast and lunch from 7<br />
AM to 4 PM daily; Friday, Saturday and Sunday open until 8 PM.<br />
Great Sunday brunch 9 AM to 3 PM.<br />
Fire & Ice — Blue Haven Resort & Marina. Tel: 946-9900.<br />
Drinks at <strong>the</strong> Ice Bar, dessert by <strong>the</strong> fire pits. South Americanmeets-Caribbean<br />
flavors and spices. Open daily 5:30 to 9:30<br />
PM. Closed Wednesday.<br />
Fresh Bakery & Bistro — Atrium Resort. Tel: 345-4745.<br />
Healthy European salads, soups, sandwiches, bakery, pies and<br />
cakes. Gelato. Open daily 7 AM to 6 PM, closed Sunday.<br />
Fresh Catch — Salt Mills Plaza. Tel: 243-3167. Au<strong>the</strong>ntic native<br />
cuisine, from seafood to souse. All-you-can-eat seafood buffet<br />
on Wednesday. Open daily 8 AM to 10 PM. Closed Sunday.<br />
Carry-out available.<br />
Giggles Ice Cream & Candy Parlour — Ports <strong>of</strong> Call &<br />
Williams Storage. Tel: 941-7370. Cones, sundaes, shakes,<br />
smoothies, “Gigglers,” ice cream pies and cakes. Pick ‘n’ mix<br />
candies. Open daily 11 AM to 10 PM.<br />
Gilley’s Sky Lounge & Bar — At <strong>the</strong> airport. Tel: 946-4472.<br />
Burgers, sandwiches, local food. Open daily 6 AM to 9 PM.<br />
Grace’s Cottage — Point Grace Resort. Tel: 946-5096. Refined<br />
new menu in <strong>the</strong> style <strong>of</strong> a tastefully sophisticated French bistro.<br />
Serving dinner from 6 to 10 PM nightly.<br />
The Grill — Grace Bay Club. Tel: 946-5050. Al fresco bistro.<br />
Italian-inspired menu and gourmet pizza. Fun cocktails. Open<br />
daily for 7 AM to 9:30 PM.<br />
Hemingways on <strong>the</strong> Beach — The Sands at Grace Bay. Tel:<br />
941-8408. Casual beachfront bar and restaurant. Fresh fish,<br />
pasta, sandwiches, salads and tropical drinks by <strong>the</strong> pool.<br />
Oceanfront deck for great sunsets! Open 8 AM to 10 PM daily.<br />
Hole in <strong>the</strong> Wall Restaurant & Bar — Williams Plaza, Old<br />
Airport Road. Tel: 941-4136. Au<strong>the</strong>ntic Jamaican/Island cuisine<br />
80 www.timespub.tc
where <strong>the</strong> locals go. Full bar. A/C dining or outdoors on <strong>the</strong><br />
deck. Open daily 7 AM to 9 PM. Pick-up/delivery available.<br />
Infiniti Restaurant & Raw Bar — Grace Bay Club. Tel: 946-<br />
5050. Elegant beachfront dining featuring sea-to-table fare.<br />
Dinner served nightly 6:30 to 9:30 PM. Reservations required.<br />
Island Raw — Le Petite Plaza. Tel: 346-5371. Vegan lifestyle<br />
kitchen, <strong>of</strong>fering fresh, organic, raw, vegan, gourmet. Open<br />
Friday, Noon to 2 PM.<br />
Island Conch Bar & Grill — Bight Cultural Market. Tel: 946-<br />
8389. Caribbean and local cuisine. Open daily 11 AM to 9 PM.<br />
Island Scoop — Grace Bay Plaza. Tel: 242-8511/243-5051.<br />
21 flavors <strong>of</strong> ice cream made locally. Cones, smoothies, blizzards<br />
and shakes. Open daily, 11 AM to 10 PM.<br />
The Java Bar — Graceway Gourmet. Tel: 941-5000. Gourmet<br />
café serving fresh baked desserts, sandwiches and c<strong>of</strong>fee<br />
delights. Open 7 AM to 8 PM daily.<br />
Jack’s Fountain — Across from Casablanca Casino. Tel: 946-<br />
5225. Seafood, steak, unique specialty items in a lively, relaxed<br />
“beach bar” atmosphere. Open daily except Monday 11:30 AM<br />
to 10 PM.<br />
Jimmy’s Dive Bar & Grill — Central Square, Leeward Highway.<br />
Tel: 941-8925. Take-out lunch specials; daily drink and dinner<br />
specials. Wings, sliders, salads, pasta, burgers, seafood. Open<br />
daily Noon to 2 AM.<br />
Kalooki’s Grace Bay — Le Vele Plaza. Tel: 941-8388. The perfect<br />
mix <strong>of</strong> sweet and spicy Caribbean flavors. New location in<br />
Grace Bay. Open daily 11 AM to 10 PM. Closed Thursday.<br />
Kitchen 218 — Beach House, Lower Bight Road. Tel: 946-5800.<br />
Caribbean cuisine with hints <strong>of</strong> French and Asian fusion and <strong>the</strong><br />
chef’s passion for fresh ingredients. Open 8 AM to 10 PM daily.<br />
The Landing Bar & Kitchen — Grace Bay Road across from<br />
Regent Village. Tel: 341-5856. Unique nautical setting for dinner<br />
under <strong>the</strong> stars. Cocktails, fire pit. Open daily except Tuesday<br />
5:30 to 10 PM.<br />
Las Brisas — Neptune Villas, Chalk Sound. Tel: 946-5306.<br />
Mediterranean/Caribbean cuisine with tapas, wine and full bar.<br />
Terrace and gazebo dining overlooking Chalk Sound. Open daily<br />
8 AM to 10 PM. Take-out available; private parties.<br />
Le Bouchon du Village — Regent Village. Tel: 946-5234. A<br />
taste <strong>of</strong> Paris. Sidewalk café with sandwiches, salads, tartines,<br />
tapas, dinner specials, wine, cheese, dessert, c<strong>of</strong>fees. Open<br />
daily 11 AM to 10 PM. Closed Sunday.<br />
Le Comptoir Francais — Regent Village. Tel: 946-5234.<br />
French deli, bakery, wine shop. Open daily.<br />
Lemon 2 Go C<strong>of</strong>fee — Ventura House. Tel: 941-4069.<br />
Gourmet c<strong>of</strong>feehouse. Sandwiches, muffins, cookies, croissants,<br />
yogurt, salads. Open Monday to Saturday 7:30 AM to 7 PM,<br />
Sunday 9 AM to 1 PM.<br />
Lupo — Regent Village. Tel: 431-5876. Au<strong>the</strong>ntic Italian “comfort<br />
food.” Regional wine list. Dine in or take out ready-made<br />
gourmet meals. Open daily for dinner 5 to 10 PM.<br />
Magnolia Restaurant & Wine Bar — Miramar Resort. Tel:<br />
941-5108. International cuisine with island flavors, north shore<br />
views. Open for dinner from 6 to 9:30 PM except Monday.<br />
Mango Reef — Turtle Cove. Tel: 946-8200. Fresh local flavors<br />
and seafood, homemade desserts. Open daily 11 AM to 10 PM.<br />
Set price dinner on weekdays. Waterside deck, indoor or patio<br />
dining. Tie-up to dock at Turtle Cove Marina.<br />
Market Café — Blue Haven Resort. Tel: 946-9900. Gourmet<br />
c<strong>of</strong>fees, teas, frozen drinks; fresh breads and pastries; grab ‘n’<br />
go salads, sandwiches, smoothies. Open daily 7 AM to 8 PM.<br />
Mo<strong>the</strong>r’s Pizza — Downtown <strong>Times</strong> Square. Tel: 941-4142.<br />
Best pizza in <strong>the</strong> Turks & Caicos, available by <strong>the</strong> slice or <strong>the</strong><br />
island’s biggest “large.” Open daily 11 AM to 9 PM; to 10 PM on<br />
Friday and Saturday; Noon to 8 PM on Sunday.<br />
Mr. Groupers — Lower Bight and Sunset Ridge Hotel (near airport).<br />
Tel: 242-6780. Serving fresh local seafood straight from<br />
<strong>the</strong> sea. Open daily 10 AM to 10:30 PM, Sunday 3 to 11 PM.<br />
Opus Wine • Bar • Grill — Ocean Club Plaza. Tel: 946-5885.<br />
International menu with Caribbean flair. Fresh seafood. Serving<br />
dinner nightly 6 to 10 PM. Closed Monday. Indoor/outdoor dining.<br />
Conference facility, events, catering.<br />
Outback Steakhouse TCI — Regent Village. Unbeatable<br />
steak cuts complemented by chicken, ribs, seafood, and pasta.<br />
Generous portions, moderately priced, casual atmosphere. Open<br />
daily 11 AM to 10 PM.<br />
Parallel23 — The Palms Turks & Caicos. Tel: 946-8666. Pantropical<br />
cuisine in a setting <strong>of</strong> casual elegance. Boutique wine<br />
list. Al fresco or private dining room available. Open daily 6 to<br />
Midnight.<br />
The Patty Place — Behind Shining Stars; Le Petit Place, Blue<br />
Hills. Tel: 246-9000. Au<strong>the</strong>ntic Jamaican patties and loaves. 18<br />
flavors <strong>of</strong> Devon House ice cream. Open daily 9:30 AM to 10 PM.<br />
Pavilion — The Somerset. Tel: 339-5900. Chef Brad <strong>of</strong>fers a<br />
global palate, interpreted locally. Seafood raw bar. Open daily<br />
for breakfast, lunch, dinner; Sunday Prime Rib special.<br />
Pelican Bay Restaurant & Bar — Royal West Indies Resort.<br />
Tel: 941-2365. Poolside restaurant and bar with Caribbean,<br />
French and Asian fare. Breakfast, lunch, dinner daily from 7:30<br />
AM to 10 PM. Special events each week.<br />
Pepper Town Café — Digicel Cinema, #4. Tel: 246-9237.<br />
Native and Caribbean Dishes. Open daily except Sunday 11:30<br />
AM to 7 PM. Island breakfast on Saturday at 7 AM.<br />
Pizza Pizza — Grace Bay Plaza/Cinema Plaza. Tel: 941-<br />
8010/941-3577. New York style specialty pizzas. Open daily<br />
11:30 AM to 9:30 PM, weekends until 10 PM. Free delivery.<br />
Provence — Le Vele Plaza. Tel: 946-4124. Traditional French<br />
artisan-style cuisine. Fresh pasta, gelato, cheeses, charcuterie,<br />
pastries, desserts. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.<br />
Retreat Kitchen Vegetarian Café & Juice Bar — Ports <strong>of</strong><br />
Call. Tel: 432-2485. Fresh, organic, vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free<br />
fare. Fresh juices, daily lunch specials. Open for lunch<br />
Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 3 PM. Delivery available.<br />
Rickie’s Flamingo Café — Between Ocean Club and Club Med.<br />
Tel: 244-3231. Local fare and atmosphere right on <strong>the</strong> beach.<br />
Best grouper sandwich and rum punch! Don’t miss Curry Fridays<br />
and Beach BBQ Saturdays.<br />
Salt Bar & Grill — Blue Haven Resort & Marina. Tel: 946-9900.<br />
Outdoor seating overlooking <strong>the</strong> marina. Sandwiches, burgers,<br />
salads, classic bar favorites. Open daily 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM.<br />
Seven — Seven Stars Resort. Tel: 339-7777. Elevated contemporary<br />
cuisine fused with TCI tradition. Open Monday to Saturday,<br />
5:30 to 9:30 PM.<br />
72ºWest — The Palms Turks & Caicos. Tel: 946-8666.<br />
Beachside dining with a family-friendly, Caribbean-inspired<br />
menu. Serving lunch daily; dinner seasonally.<br />
Sharkbite Bar & Grill — Admiral’s Club at Turtle Cove. Tel:<br />
941-5090. Varied menu; casual dining. Sports bar/slots. Open<br />
daily from 11 AM to 2 AM.<br />
Shay Café — Le Vele Plaza. Tel: 331-6349. Offering organic<br />
c<strong>of</strong>fees, teas, sandwiches, salads, soup, pastries, gelato, sorbetto,<br />
smoothies, beer and wine. Open daily 7 AM to 7 PM.<br />
<strong>Times</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Islands</strong> <strong>Fall</strong> <strong>2019</strong> 81
Simone’s Bar & Grill — La Vista Azul. Tel: 331-3031. Serving<br />
fresh seafood and local cuisine. Open daily 11 AM to 11 PM;<br />
weekends 7 AM to 11 PM. Popular bar!<br />
Skull Rock Cantina — Ports <strong>of</strong> Call. Tel: 941-4173. The place<br />
for Tex-Mex; daily drink specials. Open daily, 8 AM to Midnight.<br />
Solana! Restaurant — Ocean Club West. Tel: 946-5254.<br />
Oceanfront dining from sushi to burgers. Teppanyaki and Sushi<br />
Bar, engage with <strong>the</strong> chefs. Open daily 7:30 AM to 10 PM.<br />
Somewhere Café & Lounge — Coral Gardens Resort. Tel:<br />
941-8260. Casual dining with Tex-Mex flair right on <strong>the</strong> beach.<br />
Cocktails, beers, specialty drinks. Open early to late daily.<br />
Stelle — Gansevoort Turks + Caicos. Tel: 232-4444. Modern<br />
Mediterranean cuisine featuring fresh fish and seafood. Open 6<br />
to 10 PM daily, until 2 AM on Friday with DJ.<br />
Sui-Ren — The Shore Club. Tel: 339-8000. Inspired flavors <strong>of</strong><br />
Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine with fresh seafood and organic<br />
produce in a unique setting. Open daily. Reservations required.<br />
Thai Orchid — The Regent Village. Tel: 946-4491. Au<strong>the</strong>ntic<br />
Thai cuisine; over 60 choices! Dine in or carry out. Open for<br />
lunch and dinner daily.<br />
Three Bro<strong>the</strong>rs Restaurant — Town Center Mall, Downtown.<br />
Tel: 232-4736. Seafood and native cuisine. Tuesday night buffet<br />
dinner. Catering services. Open daily, 7 AM to 10 PM.<br />
Turkberry Frozen Yogurt — The Saltmills. Tel: 431-2233.<br />
Frozen yogurt in a variety <strong>of</strong> flavors, with a large selection <strong>of</strong><br />
toppings. Custom donut bar. Open 11 AM to 11 PM daily.<br />
Turks Kebab — At Craft Market on Sand Castle Drive. Tel: 431-<br />
9964. Turkish and Mediterranean fare. Salads, falafel, gyros,<br />
kebabs, hummus. Open for lunch and dinner.<br />
Via Veneto — Ports <strong>of</strong> Call. Tel: 941-2372. Au<strong>the</strong>ntic Italian<br />
dining in a stylish indoor/outdoor venue. Open from 5:30 PM to<br />
late. Closed Thursday. Saturday is Pizza Night!<br />
The Vix Asian Bistro & Grill — Regent Village. Tel: 941-4144.<br />
Contemporary Asian menu with a wok station, dim sum, vegan<br />
specialties and keto dishes. Open daily Noon to 3 PM; 5:30 to<br />
10 PM. Delivery to select locations. Catering menus.<br />
Yoshi’s Sushi & Grill — The Saltmills. Tel: 941-3374/431-<br />
0012. Sushi bar menu plus Japanese cuisine. Open daily Noon<br />
to 3 PM; 6 to 10 PM. Closed Sunday. Dine indoors or out. Carry<br />
out available.<br />
Zest! — Gansevoort Turks + Caicos. Tel: 232-4444. Lunch and<br />
dinner beachfront. Taste <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Caribbean and Americas. Open<br />
daily Noon to 5 PM; 6 to 9 PM. Fisherman’s night Wednesday. a<br />
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PROUDLY SERVING THE ENERGY NEEDS OF THE<br />
TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS<br />
Our Executive Team<br />
At FortisTCI, we are committed to<br />
providing safe, reliable energy to<br />
fuel <strong>the</strong> growth <strong>of</strong> our islands and<br />
meet <strong>the</strong> needs <strong>of</strong> our customers.<br />
Eddinton Powell<br />
President & CEO<br />
Ruth Forbes<br />
Senior Vice President <strong>of</strong><br />
Corporate Services & CFO<br />
Devon Cox<br />
Senior Vice President <strong>of</strong><br />
Operations<br />
And, as <strong>the</strong> energy landscape<br />
changes, FortisTCI will be here,<br />
delivering even more energy<br />
solutions and building a sustainable<br />
energy future for <strong>the</strong> Turks and<br />
Caicos <strong>Islands</strong>.<br />
Nigel Hosein<br />
VP <strong>of</strong> Energy Production &<br />
Project Management<br />
Rachell Roullet<br />
VP <strong>of</strong> Technology, Innovation<br />
& Strategic Planning<br />
Allan Robinson<br />
VP <strong>of</strong> Grand Turk & Sister<br />
Island Operations<br />
www.fortistci.com | 649-946-4313 |
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