Bangladesh shock England to reach World Cup quarter-finals
Bangladesh knocked England out of the World Cup on Monday sparking scenes of wild celebration for the Asian whipping boys' millions of long-suffering fans and widespread derision for the game's inventors.
Mohammad Mahmudullah smashed 103 to become the first Bangladesh player to make a World Cup century while brother-in-law Mushfiqur Rahim made 89 as the Tigers clinched a nail-biting 15-run win to reach the quarter-finals for the first time.
They had to recover from being eight for two to post a challenging 275 for seven after being sent in to bat in overcast conditions.
England, needing a victory to stay afloat after winning just one of their previous four Pool A matches, were bowled out for 260 as seamer Rubel Hossain claimed four wickets and wicket-keeper Rahim held four catches.
Ian Bell made 63 but England slipped to 163 for six before Jos Buttler (65 off 52 balls) and Chris Woakes (42 not out) briefly revived their hopes with a 75-run stand for the seventh wicket.
Kerry Calls for US War Powers to Fight IS
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry called on Congress to approve President Barack Obama's war powers request during testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Wednesday
"Our nation is strongest when we act together -- and we simply cannot allow this collection of murderers and thugs to achieve its ambitions," Kerry said, noting that the Islamic State militant group has captured large portions of land in Iraq and Syria threatening "the death or submission of all who oppose it" and "the incitement of terrorist acts across the globe."
Key members of Obama's national security team testified before a Senate committee hearing in Washington on Wednesday, fielding lawmakers' questions about the presidential request to use force against Islamic State militants.
Obama last month proposed an authorization of force that would last three years with limits on the use of ground troops, barring them from sustained, long-term offensive ground combat.
In addition to Kerry, Defense Secretary Ashton Carter and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Martin Dempsey, addressed the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
The meeting is part of a long process toward any authorization, which would need to clear both the full Senate and House of Representatives.
The U.S. military has been carrying out airstrikes since August in Iraq and since September in Syria as the lead in an international coalition against the militant group that seized large areas in both countries last year.
So far, according to Pentagon data, the coalition has conducted more than 2,700 airstrikes against targets such as artillery and fighting positions, vehicles and storage facilities used by the militants.
The president has said those operations do not need any new authorization and are instead covered by a measure passed following the September 11, 2011 terror attacks.
Some material for this report came from AFP
TCIG TAKES STEPS TOWARD DISASTER PREPAREDNESS THROUGH TSUNAMI EXERCISE
The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) will join other localities in the Caribbean as a participant in a Regional Tsunami Response exercise on Wednesday 25th March 2015.
Since 2011, in an effort to enhance the capacity for tsunami response, Department of Disaster Management & Emergencies (DDME) has embarked on proactive approaches towards strengthening Earthquake and Tsunami awareness and preparedness in the TCI. As such, TCI will once again participate in the Joint CARIBE WAVE and LANTEX Exercise on 25 March, 2015.
This two-day exercise will provide:
Allow for multi-stakeholder feedback on Draft National Tsunami Plan
An introductory course to earthquakes and tsunamis
Allow persons to practice problem solving and coordination of services during a tsunami event.
Test Emergency Communication Plans and Systems
Validate the organizational decision making process about Public Warnings and Evacuation procedures
"Our goal this year is for the exercise to provide an opportunity for Emergency Management Organisations to exercise their operational lines of communications, review their response procedures and promote more coordinated tsunami response actions." said Rikardia Pardo, Hazard Mitigation Officer, DDME. "Regular exercising of Response Plans is critical to maintaining readiness for an emergency; this is particularly true for tsunamis, which are infrequent, but high impact events."
As part of this exercise, the DDME will conduct a Tsunami Orientation Exercise on Tuesday and Wednesday, 24-25 March, 2015 at the DDME-PLS Office starting at 8:30am. The principal participants expected to be a part of this exercise are the National Tsunami Focal Point (911), First Responders – (Fire, Police, Emergency Management Services), the National Operations Group, and other key stakeholders with Disaster Management Responsibilities. These persons will receive alert messages using various mediums as part of the regional exercise.
During the simulation exercise all messages being relayed will include ‘EXERCISE EXERCISE’. Should a real event occur, the exercise will be terminated immediately.
Persons/Agencies expected to respond to a tsunami event are encouraged to register to receive alert messages during the exercise at www.caribewave.info.
Turks and Caicos Tourist Board Announces second weekly British Airways Service
The Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board is delighted to announce that British Airways will be increasing flight services from London Gatwick to Providenciales by an additional flight per week commencing 29 October 2015. The service will operate on a Thursday, via Antigua, using a three class Boeing 777 aircraft.
British Airways currently operates one flight a week, on Sundays, from London Heathrow to Providenciales via Nassau, Bahamas. From Sunday 29 March this flight will move from London Heathrow to London Gatwick, via Antigua, serviced by a three class Boeing 777 aircraft.
Commenting on the new flight Colm Lacy, Head of Gatwick Commercial, stated “We are delighted to be announcing increased services to Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos Islands. On top of the introduction of a Boeing 777 aircraft this summer, our increased services this winter will give passengers increased flexibility and more choice when flying to the island. Customers can enjoy our World Traveller, World Traveller Plus and Club World cabins, whilst enjoying our food and entertainment on-board."
"We are pleased that British Airways acknowledges Turks and Caicos as one of the foremost destination in the Caribbean," said Ralph Higgs, Director of Tourism. “The destination will see increased airlift from Europe as British Airways increases its service to twice weekly from London Gatwick. The upgrade in the flight from a Boeing 767 to a Boeing 777 will also offer increased capacity. Moreover, the new route via Antigua will undoubtedly make the Turks and Caicos more accessible and attractive to potential visitors from the Eastern Caribbean as well; a sign of great things for the future of our tourism market.”
TCIG Successfully Host First Youth Competition
The Department of Mental Health and Substance Dependence (DMHSD) hosted its first annual Youth Expression: Essay, Rap and Poster competition under the theme, “Help for today, hope for tomorrow”. The event was held on Monday, March 02, 2015 at the Gustavus Lightbourne Auditorium, Providenciales.
Dr. Alicia Malcolm, Director, DMHSD stated "The event was aimed at creating awareness about the important public health issue of underage drinking and to encourage individuals and families to get help for alcohol or drug related problems.
"All in attendance were fortunate enough to witness an array of talented performers who showcased not only their artistic ability, but also demonstrated their leadership in the fight against alcohol and drug abuse."
Winners for the various categories were a follows:
Art/Poster competition:
Category 1 (Grades 2 & 3)
1st Place- Jonathan Hosey (Shinning Stars)
2nd Place - Xavier Malcolm (Ona Glinton Primary)
3rd Place – Samarii Missick (Ona Glinton Primary)
Category 2 (Grades 4-6)
1st Place- Daveon Durham (Enid Capron Primary School)
2nd Place- Fredline Morency (Enid Capron Primary School)
3rd Place- Raheem Hall (Iris Stubbs Primary School)
Essay Competition
1st Place- Rashaundra Cooke (Marjorie Basden High)
2nd Place- Claudenise Jean (Marjorie Basden High)
3rd Place- Htenneb Williams ( Wesley Methodist School)
Rap Competition
1st Place- Luywine Francis (H J Robninson High)
2nd Place- Joel Occius (Marjorie Basden High)
3rd Place- Natalia Rigby (Marjorie Basden High)
Judges included: Bennett Williams, Charlotte Chapman and Dwight Outten- Art Competition,
Lynette Higgs, Tatianna McTaire and Edwin Taylor-Essay Competition
and Romaine Pinnock, Twiston Forbes and Sophia Thomas- Rap Competition.
Contestants were judged in general for creativity, originality, interpretation of the theme and overall presentation.
The Department wishes to thank all the schools that participated and everyone who helped to make the event a success.
Special thanks also goes out to the following sponsors:
Do It Center, Caribbean Management, Islandcom, Provo Water, Lew 1 Shipping, First Caribbean, K K & T Rentals and Royal Jewels.
MORE SUNSHINE FOR THE TURKS AND CAICOS
One of the Caribbean’s top tourist destinations is set to give its residents and visitors an extra hour of sunshine each and every day of the year, it was announced today, Tuesday, 3 March 2015.
When the Turks & Caicos Islands (TCI) moves its clocks forward on hour on Sunday, 8 March 2015, it will be for the last time - from then on the territory will observe Atlantic Standard Time (AST) rather than Eastern Standard Time (EST).
Given its proximity to the equator, TCI’s days tend to be of a similar length all year round, but when the Islands have traditionally moved to EST in November, it gets dark at about 5pm in the Islands. Now everyone will be able to enjoy the TCI’s warm sunshine until well after 6pm during the winter.
“This move will provide our visitor and residents with an extra hour of sunshine during our winter months, our peak tourist season,” said the Honourable Ricardo Donhue Gardiner, Minster for Border Control and Employment. ”This will be good news for our resorts, bars and restaurants, as well as allowing our residents to enjoy a little more sunshine at the end of their day.
The decision was made to move permanently to AST in 2014, but only implemented now to allow proper notification of the relevant international authorities, including airlines and shipping companies.
TCI was previously in the same time zone – EST – and follows the same Daylight Savings Time schedule as most of eastern United States and Canada. Clocks are set one hour forward on the second Sunday in March and turned back one hour on the first Sunday in November. From 8 March 2015 TCI will be on AST all year round, making it one hour ahead of cities like New York and Toronto when the US and Canada who will continue to observe the move to EST each fall.
Carrie Underwood and Hubby Mike Fisher Welcome Baby Boy Isaiah
Carrie Underwood, 31, can officially add mother to her resume. The country music singer has given birth to a healthy baby boy, her first child with husband Mike Fisher, 34. The "American Idol" alum delivered the bundle of joy Friday, February 27.
The proud mother reveals the baby's name and gives a sneak peek at her precious newborn on Instagram. "Tiny hands and tiny feet ... God has blessed us with an amazing gift! Isaiah Michael Fisher - born February 27," so she captioned the picture.
Carrie Underwood married Mike Fisher, a hockey player, in 2010 after two years of dating. She once told Self magazine that she wanted to have "two" children, adding, "Three is fine. Four? Somebody's getting something done, because we ain't having five!"
Source-Aceshowbiz
EUROPEAN UNION CONFIRMS NEARLY $30M FOR THE TURKS AND CAICOS
The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) had nearly US$30m (€25.6m) of European cash to support its education and business sectors confirmed at the EU’s recent Overseas Countries and Territories (EUOCT) event 24-26 February 2015.
“We can now reveal that the TCI has secured $16.39m of new funding to support our education sector,” said Deputy Governor Anya Williams, “this in addition to the $13.3m already announced for improving the way that government interacts with businesses in our Territory. We have already arranged important training for government commercial officers in this regard for April.
“I have worked with the EU for three years to secure this funding, which we are eligible for thought the UK’s membership of the EU. This is bringing us a range of new opportunities to the TCI.”
“That the TCI has secured nearly $30m in direct funding from the European Union is recognition of the significant improvements that we have made in both our economy and public financial management,” said Finance Minister Washington Missick.
“We will now use these funds to boost arguably our two most important sectors in the short to medium term - education and business. The TCI will also look to play its part alongside other countries and territories in protecting our environment and biodiversity, as well as looking to increase out use of renewable energies, which can only further benefit our people and commercial institutions.”
The EUOCT event saw leaders from 22 European Union countries and territories, including the eight inhabited UK Overseas Territories, gather for the 13th EUOCT Forum, held in the British Virgin Islands,to strengthen their relationships with key EU institutions and to discuss how they can work better together.
It took place under the patronage of the outgoing Chair Dr. Orlando Smith, Premier of the British Virgin Islands, European Commissioner for International Development and Development, Neven Mimica and other high level EU Commission officials, including Marcus Cornaro, Deputy Director General for International Cooperation and Development and Member of the European Parliament, Maurice Ponga.
Supporters Turn Out in Their Numbers to Celebrate Industry's Best
Supporters of the ever popular Star Awards event hosted by TCHTA came out in their numbers on Thursday February 26 to celebrate the achievements of the finest tourism, leisure and hospitality employees, businesses and partners throughout TCI.
The 7th annual Star Awards event took place at a sold-out and transformed Tropicana Show and Supper Club venue and included breathtaking performances by Clement Howell High School and Wesley Methodist High School. As resident emcee E Jay Saunders and first timer Veronica Clare announced the winners the crowd erupted in thunderous applause as their favourites was named winners of the coveted 17 awards. Taking home the awards were:
Bartender of the Year - Carlton "The Doc" Waite, Regent Palms
Housekeeper of the Year - Rangitha Mohottallage, Seven Stars Resorts
Taxi Driver of the Year - Gustavus Francis
Employee of the Year - Lila Upreti, Seven Stars Resort
Supervisor of the Year - Ricardo Cyriaque, Gansevoort Turks & Caicos
Heart of Hospitality - Emelito Amores, Regent Palms
Ambassador of the Year - Fredrico Johnson, Beaches TCI
TCHTA's Shining Star - Mona Beeson, The Sands at Grace Bay
Chef of the Year - Lauren Callighen, Regent Palms
Manager of the Year - Jamila Lowe, AIB Hotel & Restaurant Supplies
Allied Member of the Year - Marco Travel/Turtle Tours
Hotelier of the Year - Yolander Forbes, Parrot Cay Resort
Restaurant of the Year - Seven Restaurant, Seven Stars Resort
Hotel of the Year - Regent Palms
Entertainer of the Year - David Bowen
New to the star-studded event this year were two exciting categories, Fan Favourite and Hospitality Hero, which allowed the general public to vote for their favourite nominees by liking their photos on the Association's Facebook page. After the votes were tallied Fan Favourite was awarded to Melanie Smith of Seven Stars Resort with a resounding 450 plus likes, with Hospitality Hero Jamy Williams of Coral Gardens receiving over 200 votes online.
Stacy Cox, TCHTA's Executive Director expressed her delight at the success of the event by stating, "Our 2015 event was without a doubt an exciting one as we had much to celebrate throughout our industry which stands poised for unprecedented growth in the coming years given the buoyancy of TCI's economy. Acknowledging, rewarding and promoting service excellence in the tourism and hospitality industry will be a long-term objective of the Association and because of the industry's proven role in stimulating economic growth, employment generation and social integration, honouring our employees, the lifeline of the industry is something the Association will continue to do for years to come."
Cox added, "Our tourism product can compete with the best of the best, with our fantastic range of diverse accommodation, activities, fabulous places to eat but without the plethora of people who go out of their way to give our visitors a warm welcome, our product would not strive or develop as much as it has. As we promote excellence and recognise the efforts put in by various stakeholders in the development and promotion of TCI's Tourism product, the Association would like to encourage all tourism partners to continuously work together with an innovative mind and positive approach for development of the industry in a sustainable and responsible manner and encourage all persons and companies with a vested interest in the industry to keep raising their own standards. Let us all continue to work together to show that TCI has the potential to become the best tourist destination in the world."
The evening's proceedings also saw the Association recognising its TCHTA's Board of Directors whose tender ends March 31, 2015 as well as persons who were instrumental in the conceptualisation and development of the event. Karen Whitt, Caesar Campbell and Nicholette Thomas were recognised for developing and perfecting the event with the dream of acknowledging and awarding the industry's shining stars and tourism partners. For the first few years of the event's existence the team worked tirelessly to promote Star Awards ensuring that each February the tourism sector came alive as employees and employers discussed the various nominations from their respective companies.
With more sponsors like premier sponsor Scotia Bank coming on board each year thanks to the efforts of the Star Awards Committee and with new venues being afforded the opportunity to host the event the Association looks forward to taking the event to greater heights. Special thanks was given to sponsors:
ScotiaBank
Delta Airlines
Olympia Destination Management Company
Discovery Tours and Adventures
Turks & Caicos Hotel & Tourism Association
Blue Heron Aviation
Caicos Dream Tours
CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank
CSC Insurance Brokers
FedEx
FortisTCI
Gilley's Enterprises/ The Wine Cellar
Graceway IGA
LIME
Royal Bank of Canada
TCI Hospitality Supplies
T&C Islands Airports Authority
T & C Tourist Board
Uni-Source/ AIB
Turks & Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association
Spa Tropique
Wrightfully Fit Gymnasium
TCI Ferry & Crusin'
The Sands at Grace Bay
Seven Stars Resort
Regent Palms
Parrot Cay Resort
Islandcom
Jai's
Grace Bay Club
Gansevoort
Easy Car Rentals - North Caicos
Digicel
Blue Horizon Resort - Middle Caicos
Beaches
Automotive Art TCI
Amanyara
Global Surrounds Paradise while the Saints defeated the Romans
The church slow pitch co-ed league continued on Monday evening with Paradise Baptist Church taking on the Global United Fellowship.
Global started the game 3 to 0 and took the Paradise out of the Baptist to defeat them 10 to 1, winning the game. Paradise never got themselves going and have lost there third game.
Can they return? We'll keep you updated as the season goes on.
In the second game of the night between the Roman Catholic Church and St Monica's Church, the Saints started the game with an 8 to 0 lead as Catholics tried to make a come back, but the Saints held on to win that exciting game 11 to 6 to give the Catholic Church there second loss of the season.
The Saints, Prophecy and the Champs Jericho are the only teams with three wins and remains undefeated.
During the game earlier, umpire & softball President Godfrey Been was struck by a ball, we're told he will be fine after being examined, but he appeared in a lot of pain after the game.
The next game is scheduled for Wednesday evening at the National Stadium between the Champions Jericho taking on Bethany and Prophecy Church challenging Methodist.
RTC Sports was told that games were changed to this Wednesday evening in order to facilitate the College sports.