By Kathy Borsuk

Imagine being able to download your favorite tunes, photos, movies, streaming videos and games into your Blackberry, iPhone or iPad with lightning-fast speed. Surf the Web and access email while making a call! Want to see who you’re speaking to while you talk? Tired of hard-to-hear and dropped mobile calls? TCI is poised to step into the new generation of improved telecommunications with the launching of world class 3G service by local provider Islandcom Wireless. Stand back and prepare to be awed, as the winds of change sweep by!

All the latest devices work on Islandcom's new 3G network.

Islandcom, TCI’s only locally owned wireless carrier, has been re-born into a cutting-edge entity called Islandcom Wireless. It’s a competitive, high-tech firm that’s ready to bring speed, performance and sophistication to the TCI wireless market.

We last reported on Islandcom in late 2008, when it had just welcomed Bermuda Digital Communications (a subsidiary of industry giant Atlantic Tele-Network) as a major shareholder, strengthening the company originally dreamed up by Salt Cay native Sandra Garland in 2004 when the TCI telecommunications industry was deregulated. BDC’s influence led to a major restructuring of Islandcom plans, and in March 2009, their international team of telecommunication specialists began work on a $6 million commitment to build a 3G network in the Turks & Caicos. Islandcom Wireless CEO Kate Bonner explains what was involved, “We removed all our original equipment from the eleven existing shared cell towers and updated them to UMTS. We also added seven new cell towers of our own. By the end of this year, we will have Islandcom 3G coverage operating in twenty sites around the country, including Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, South Caicos and Grand Turk.”

3G is the third-generation evolution of wireless technology. It uses a UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) which provides more “robust” service by utilizing a larger bandwidth with which to carry data. As Kate explained, in real terms this means that cell phone calls are of better quality: clearer and less likely to drop or not connect. It also means that you’ll now be able to take advantage of all the features on your “smart phone” that were not supported by the existing 2-G network: thanks to sizzling speeds rivaling hard-wired computers when it comes to transferring data, including music, photos, streaming videos and games. Plus, you can enjoy simultaneous voice and data capabilities allowing you to talk on your phone and surf the Net at the same time. And, because Islandcom Wireless provides international roaming, you can take your 3G service with you when traveling overseas.

According to the enthusiastic CEO, who boasts 24 years of experience in the telecommunications industry, “We started testing our network in December 2009 and were delighted to confirm that after an independent competitive test drive analysis, we can document that we offer clearer call quality, wider coverage and fewer dropped calls than our competitors.”

In the meantime, Islandcom upgraded its retail outlets on Providenciales and Grand Turk, plus added full service dealers in North and South Caicos. Here, Bonner promises, customers will find the latest and coolest 3G handsets and smart phones, including the much sought-after Apple iPhone, HTC Nexus Google and Blackberry Bold 9700. The stores will also carry such innovative devices as the Apple iPad and HP Mini Netbook, along with the wireless USB Modem which allows you to access 3G service on your laptop computer, all at very competitive prices. She adds, “We also think we have the best staff and salespeople in the country! They’re young, hip, charismatic, and very knowledgeable about our products. We want to take customer service to a whole new level.”

In tandem, Islandcom’s rate plans and call bundles — either pre-paid or post-paid — are easy to understand, yet comprehensive and competitive. Paying bills, topping up and checking voicemail can all be done on-line, while pre-paid top-up is available in 47 TCI locations. Islandcom Wireless’s corporate department offers custom-designed suites of voice and data services, including innovative data applications, to make it easy to conduct business from remote locations and coordinate your workforce. Corporate Account Manager Manno Papachristou explains, “Because we’re new, local and committed to technology, we’re very nimble and can react quickly to the specific needs of the local business community.”

Founder Sandra Garland is proud to say that the “new and improved” Islandcom hasn’t left its core values behind. “Our company remains committed to hiring and training locals, and 78% of the current workforce are Belongers. We’re also sponsoring several community events including the Fool’s Regatta, Eco-Swim, Big South Regatta and Grand Turk Billfishing Tournament.

Islandcom Wireless is due to launch in June, exploding into the marketplace with special offers including free data service for three months and free Islandcom to Islandcom calls. Don’t blink or you may miss it!

For more information, visit www.islandcom.tc or visit Islandcom’s retail stores in Graceway Plaza in Providenciales or Windmills Plaza in Grand Turk.

Building an efficient, effective 9-1-1 service for the Turks & Caicos Islands.

By Kathy Borsuk ~ Photos By Claire Parrish

Dial 9-1-1! It’s a universal call for help; an almost-instinctive response to an emergency situation.

And, as of February 7, 2010, in the Turks & Caicos Islands that call will be answered 24 hours a day with, “9-1-1. What is your emergency?,” spoken calmly by an emergency response operator trained to help in whatever the situation, and ready  to dispatch the appropriate assistance, be it police, fire brigade or ambulance.

911 Operator Tammika Lall-Perry

A woman on a mission

Having a reliable 9-1-1 system is a given in most countries, but getting it properly started — building a solid foundation — is actually quite an undertaking. Fortunately, the TCI has been graced with the services of Juliette Gooding as project manager since April 2008. A native of Barbados and long-time resident of the Cayman Islands, Ms. Gooding brings extensive experience in the field, having participated in training programs and workshops by the Pan American Health Organization, World Health Organization, University of the West Indies and institutions in the UK and US. She has set up a 9-1-1 center in the Cayman Islands and provided assistance to programs in Barbados and Trinidad. I was especially impressed with Ms. Gooding’s obvious devotion to her job — call it a mission — and her willingness to tackle a number of obstacles to bring this life-saving program to the TCI.

Ms. Gooding’s professionally based approach began with a thorough assessment of TCI’s mid-2008 emergency response situation, studying everything from the communications systems to the number of emergency vehicles available to the staffing levels of police, fire and medical services personnel and their response time. She identified the “weak links” in the system and held extensive meetings with heads of various government departments and local businesses and community organizations to put together a plan that could work. She says, “My goal was to lift up the standards of the emergency response system. Part of this involved changing the mindset of some of the players. We needed to offer the public a faster response and more accountability. It was going to take re-training and re-education and for this, I have not always been the most popular person.”

Names and numbers

New street signs

Interestingly, the first and most basic part of establishing a functioning and efficient 9-1-1 program was street naming and creating official addresses. Most island residents know that addresses were not common here. Giving directions — even when in an emergency — often resembles a scavenger hunt: “Go up the road from Glass Shack and make a right by that pink house where Old Charles used to live, go down a ways and take a left by the big palm tree.”

This was all to change as official Street Naming Committees were formed in the various settlements, led by residents. Ms. Gooding explains, “The committees played a key role in collecting and confirming historical street names, choosing names for unnamed streets, establishing them in legal record and inputting them into the 9-1-1 system.” Key was avoiding duplication of names or having similar sounding names that could be easily confused. The next step was to transfer the information into a central data base and assign street numbers. Ms. Gooding expressed special thanks to Tracey Grant of the TCI Survey and Mapping Department, pointing out that “she worked tirelessly (and continues to do so) to ensure all the data was correct, and created maps that display all the addresses and landmarks.”

A visit to the 9-1-1 call center, currently located in a small office in Williams Plaza, displays the results of this exercise on a series of large maps spread across the walls, with each street duly named and each residence duly numbered. This is key, Ms. Gooding says, because, “People are often in a state of distress when they call 9-1-1 and may not have the peace of mind to carefully spell out their street name or explain their location. Having distinct and unique names and numbers for each home or business will save lives by ensuring that emergency services are always sent to the right location.”

As of April 1, 2009, most streets in Providenciales were named and numbered, with maps available on the 9-1-1 website, www.911tci.com. (The other Islands will follow shortly.) Besides an extensive campaign by 9-1-1 volunteers to visit and register local businesses, residents are urged to check the website to learn their full, official address. (I found this kind of exciting, having never had an address before. I felt a measure of security in knowing that, should I have a problem, 9-1-1 dispatchers can send help directly to our home.)

Immediately following street naming was the official installation of street signs, which began in July. The standardized signs, typically funded and installed by area homeowner’s associations, neighborhood watch groups and civic organizations, are placed on roadside corners, designating both street names and emergency zone areas. Ms. Gooding is currently urging all residents to number their homes and businesses with clear, visible reflective numbers, placed near the road and on the front door of the house. This, too, can only help emergency services to reach you as quickly as possible. Legislation is currently in progress to make it an offense to deface or destroy street signs and to make address numbering mandatory.

Brains and backbone

While the literal “groundwork” was being laid, the brains and backbone of the 9-1-1 system were being readied. Recruits were sought to become certified 9-1-1 dispatchers. Ms. Gooding explains the type of people she looks for, “The main qualification is to have common sense and the ability to think fast. They must read between the lines and figure things out. They must have the personality to manage and adapt to stressful situations and be able to comprehend instructions quickly and accurately.” She conducted formal interviews with all applicants, making sure THEY understood the nature of the job as well:  long hours, lots of stress. The final candidates then took part in a six month training program, with lots of testing and walk-through scenarios along the way. Besides becoming familiar with the detailed emergency response cards, they had to learn to use the 9-1-1 computer program, dispatch responders using telephone or radio, complete incident reports and, most importantly, remain calm and cool no matter what was happening on the other end of the line. An important part of the job also includes post-incident follow-up, including scheduling police visits to a crime scene and maintaining accurate records so that results can be quantified. In the end, a total of eight dispatchers were “deputized” on February 4, 2010, and awarded internationally recognized certificates in Fire Safety Communications and Public Safety Communications through the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO Institute).

The computerized backbone of the system is still a work in progress, set up with the technical skills of Assistant Manager Elery James and radio communications from Pugh & Associates, who manufacture the system. Besides helping dispatchers readily find street addresses and prepare incident reports, it also ties in to the TCI Government’s Road Traffic Department records, aiding dispatchers in providing police officers with vehicle descriptions when license plate numbers are provided. Along with a cash donation, local telecommunications company Digicel helped get things started by offering free access to any available Digicel communication tower, trunk lines over their fixed wireless network, stand-alone wireless desktop handsets if regular service is disrupted and free on-net calls and Blackberry Smart phones for emergency use.

Paying the bill

And speaking of funds . . . (or lack thereof) . . . this has been another obstacle nobly tackled by Program Manager Gooding. The country-wide financial meltdown started just as the 9-1-1 program was getting off the ground, and a major and unexpected part of her job responsibility over the last 1 1/2 years has been to “procure resources” from the private sector that were to have been provided by government. To date, local banks have been the most generous supporters — including large donations from Scotiabank, the TCI Banker’s Association, Royal Bank of Canada, British Caribbean Bank and First Caribbean. Ms. Gooding says they still need funds to purchase additional computers and the expensive 9-1-1 component system (which will link together the various departments), and to move forward to the other Islands.*

A passion for service

But a visit to the 9-1-1 center proves that, to Juliette Gooding and her staff, providing emergency response aid is a passion. The small room hums with a serious readiness, as two dispatchers and a supervisor work in 12 hour shifts. Operators respond to calls with the five all-important “Ws”:  Where are you located? . . . What is happening? . . . Who are you (name and phone number)? . . . What are the signs and symptoms? . . . Are any weapons involved? Dispatchers have at their fingertips a “card catalog” specifically coded for medical, law enforcement or fire service emergencies, with scripted instructions on how to handle anything from heart attacks to burglaries, including pre-arrival instructions for emergency personnel. Ms. Gooding says the goal is to dispatch the proper responder within 60 seconds, often using one operator to man the phone or radio to contact police, fire or medical services, while the other operator stays on the line with the caller, helping to keep them calm and giving instructions that can save lives. There is currently one Creole-speaking and one Spanish-speaking dispatcher, with interpreters on-call at all times.

My initial idea was that the center would get few calls, or that they would be primarily on evenings and weekends, especially late at night when clubs and bars are in full swing. However, Ms. Gooding quickly dispelled that notion by revealing that, in the first eight days of full operation, the center received over 120 calls, averaging about 15 calls/day. In fact, several calls came in during the short time we visited the center!

Looking forward

Besides improving the 9-1-1 system as funds become available and emergency responders adapt to the program; expanding service to the other Islands and training Assistant Program Manager Elery James to eventually take over her role, Juliette is also planning presentations to business groups, schools and other public forums on the program. She has already kept broadcast and print media well-informed as to each step of progress, issuing public advisories on how to make best use of the system (including the no-nos, such as allowing children to play with phones or make prank calls and the difference between a robbery and a burglary ) and the web site is a continually updated wealth of information.

I think I can speak for the entire community when I consider the 9-1-1 system and its dedicated operators to be like a flock of guardian angels, hovering in the background, ready to help us in our hour of greatest need. I offer my sincere thanks to all involved.

For more information, visit www.911tci.com.

*Editor’s note: CORRECTION:
In the Spring 2010 issue’s story “In Case of Emergency,” we left out some important information. First of all, 9-1-1 Assistant Program Manager Elery James has played a vital role in improving TCI’s emergency services program since 2003; his years of being an active volunteer firefighter opened his eyes to the urgent need for this service. In fact, the 9-1-1 system’s current server, software and monitors were purchased by the TCI Royal Police Force, with Mr. James completing the set-up with support from Terrance Robinson of Lorters Computing, Ron Williams of TouchComm Networks and a donation of network cards from Compronics. Mr. James’s own company, Technical Concepts, donated all the communication devices needed to build and bring the 9-1-1 system to the position it is in today. When the article was written, IT Specialist Linden Pratt and Strategic Technologies Ltd. was not involved in any of the computer system work, and has withdrawn their offer to do so in the future. We regret leaving out this important information and look forward to expanding on and updating the 9-1-1 program story in a future issue.

TCI’s premier professional center opens.

By Kathy Borsuk ~ Photos By Claire Parrish

It’s hard to travel on Leeward Highway and not admire the attractive new three-story professional complex (across the road from Central Square) that sets the stage for Providenciales’ own “Miracle Mile.”

The Courtyard Plaza is TCI's premier professional center.

Completed on schedule early this year, The Courtyard Plaza — designed by local company Conservative Architects — is one of the island’s most attractive properties, an intriguing combination of cornices, arched windows and entryways and hexagonal lines, with the appealing two-toned facade crisply accented with gold-brown shutters, white frames and wrought-iron light fixtures. Bright bursts of colorful landscaping and stately palms complete the picture. The building embraces a peaceful garden courtyard at the back, the ideal spot for enjoying a quiet break from a busy day.

With this first phase nearly sold out, The Courtyard Plaza offers a number of benefits for the astute business professional.  Jeffrey Miick, developer, explains, “Our plan was to create a positive, professional atmosphere in which to conduct business, whether retail or commercial. Everything was designed around this goal. The suites, which come in a variety of sizes from 862 to nearly 3,000 sq. ft., are strata-titled, so you can either own your own space, building equity as you grow, or purchase a suite as an investment and lease it out, taking advantage of our rental management program. Each suite has a built-in kitchenette and restroom and zoned air-conditioning. Hurricane-impact windows eliminate the need for shutters and the security/fire safety system is already in place. Units on the ground floor are ideal for retail businesses, with large storefront windows and easy customer access. Elevators service the second and third floors and we’ve designed the parking area for good traffic flow, with ample, extra-wide spaces. I’m really proud of how well this has turned out and the response of our owners had been overwhelmingly positive.”

The Courtyard Plaza is anchored by the home offices of Norstar Group Ltd., the project builder; Palm Ventures, its developer and several of the development’s partners — virtually guaranteeing the importance of a good impression and well-managed property. Other spaces are occupied by a wide variety of local businesses that serve the Turks & Caicos Islands.

The Courtyard Plaza scores high in accessibility and practicality. On the main (and only) highway between the airport and most tourist destinations, its position is highly visible and heavily travelled, with all-important access from both sides of the road. A large lit sign lists all the businesses. And for those who have to do business, it is central to the main branches of all banks, South Dock, customs, many government departments and major grocery stores.

As I toured the complex, I admired the solid, well-built construction apparent throughout . . . along with the breathtaking views from most offices, especially those on the third floor, from which I could see all the way to the south ocean shore. Amy Thiel, marketing manager, explained other advantages that make a Courtyard Plaza investment a wise decision, “We’re eager to help both resident businesses or overseas investors finish their suite to perfection. We have in-house architectural services to design the floor plan that best suits their needs and have special build-out price incentives.”

A mirror-image of the existing building is planned for the cleared space next door. When completed, the twin buildings will embrace a large central garden courtyard — complete with another magnificent fountain and walkways — to add to the pleasant, open space. Interested parties are encouraged to ask about special pre-construction pricing and financing options. Spaces for purchase or lease in the original building are also available.

It’s said that success builds on success. The Courtyard Plaza’s track record ranks a blue-ribbon; its future as the country’s premier professional center seems assured.

For an appointment to view the property, phone 649 941 8958 or email info@CourtyardPlazaTCI.com. For more information, visit www.CourtyardPlazaTCI.com.

The Saltmills business complex pays homage to TCI heritage.

By Kathy Borsuk ~ Photos By Claire Parrish

Grand Turk, South Caicos and Salt Cay are traditionally known as the Turks & Caicos’ “Salt Islands.” Their vast salinas, into which seawater was pumped via windmill through a series of sluices for evaporation into high quality sea salt for shipment abroad, sustained the country’s economy for nearly 300 years. When that industry faltered in the 1960s, tourism, focused on the island of Providenciales, took its place as breadwinner. Ironically, one of the new era’s most vibrant business developments — The Saltmills — pays tribute to one of the salt industry’s most salient features.

Trademark windmill in The Saltmills complex

Located in the heart of Providenciales’ world-renowned Grace Bay “Gold Coast,” The Saltmills is a thriving complex of over 80,000 square feet of retail, office and storage space. Besides its prestigious position with over 400 feet of frontage on Grace Bay Road, The Saltmills offers an appealing combination of cultural details and contemporary Caribbean architecture.

The two-story building structures embrace a charming “town square.” Flanked by palm trees and full-sized replicas of the namesake windmills, a raised, covered pavilion is the ideal place to relax and people-watch, sip a drink and enjoy the ocean breeze.

A touch of history

The inspiration behind the name “Saltmills” came from Salt Cay native Godfrey Been, who was a partner in the original design-build construction company for the project, Been Construction. Godfrey explains, “My grandfather Joseph Been was responsible for maintaining the all-important windmills which accelerated the flow of salt water into the Salt Cay salinas prior to solar evaporation of the brine into salt crystals. I felt this was a great way to honor his memory along with all of our ancestors who toiled in the salt ponds.”

The Saltmills’ developer, an American businessman with a longtime interest in the Islands, purchased the Grace Bay land in 2000 when there was no commercial development in the immediate area. The nearest tourist-related attractions were Ports of Call some distance to the east and Danny Buoys bar and restaurant next door. A few small residential developments, including Carpe Diem and White Rock, were also built at the time. However, the developer and his team sensed the strong potential of the area, based on its proximity to the many condominium resorts on the beach across the street, and started construction in 2003.

Design ideas stemmed from successful low-rise malls in the Cayman Islands, deemed to be suitable for Providenciales. Local architectural firm Conservative Architects, led by TCI native Anthony Walkin, themed the project with a local slant, as evidenced by the tin-style corrugated roofing, distinctive window shutters and pastel coloured detailing typical of Salt Island construction.

The Saltmills was prudently expanded in three phases, each eagerly anticipated by existing and new retail and professional tenants. With flexible spaces ranging in size from 500 to 4,000 square feet, there is something to suit just about every business need. Today, The Saltmills serves as a hub of commercial development, surrounded by additional resort properties, shopping/office plazas, restaurants and tourist-related businesses.

Something for everyone

Among The Saltmills’ many appeals are the wide variety and number (over 30) of businesses represented. The property is managed by BCQS Ltd., an independent firm of construction and property professionals, who have been operating in the TCI for over 30 years and in the wider Caribbean even longer. According to on-site Property Manager Rosie Nicholls, tenants are carefully selected to ensure that The Saltmills offers “a little bit of everything.” As you can see from the sidebar list, at The Saltmills you can enjoy food and drink; shop for souvenirs, home furnishings, art, clothing or watersports equipment; plan an eco-excursion or a wedding; do your banking; work out; visit a dermatologist; consult a realtor; purchase insurance or register for the national health plan; or investigate an out-island property purchase. Rosie says, “We have to credit InterDecor, Blue, FirstCaribbean Bank and Saltmills Café as our flagship tenants, whose presence helped establish, anchor and draw traffic to The Saltmills. We’re also excited about our newest tenants — ERA Coralie Properties, the National Health Insurance Board, McKnight’s law firm and Bornewell Marketing. The Royal Turks & Caicos Police force have also set up a branch just next to the bank!”

The attraction to local businesses, she adds, is more than The Saltmills’ prime and well-established location and professional environment. “Our rental agreement is all-inclusive, with no hidden fees. It includes all exterior repair and maintenance, even including window cleaning, allowing the tenants to concentrate on their core business. We work hard to ensure the property is well-run. And because we have lots of different sized spaces available, tenants have the option to move into larger or smaller units as their needs dictate.” A good example is the Blue Surf Shop, which sells name brand swim, beach and sports wear, along with watersports gear. It started in a unit at the back of The Saltmill’s first streetfront building, then moved to a larger unit at the front of newly constructed Phase II, just behind the pavilion. Its sister company, Big Blue Unlimited, now leases a second space, from which it operates a thriving eco-excursion company.

Other Saltmills stalwarts include: Treasure S & S Gift Shop, its small store bursting with t-shirts, dresses, locally made straw work and other souvenirs and offering the island’s best hair braiding; Anna’s Art Gallery, a beautiful source of paintings, jewelry and objects d’art by local artists; Ambiance Boutique, a popular place to purchase name brand clothing and accessories including Tommy Bahama and The Saltmills Café & Diner, which started as a bakery and morphed into a favourite place for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Besides being an enjoyable place to meet, mingle or relax, shop or dine and conduct business, The Saltmills — perhaps most importantly — manages to present and preserve a slice of the heritage of the Turks & Caicos Islands. This allows visitors and residents to keep in mind the struggles of the past that led to today’s prosperity.

For all enquires, contact BCQS Limited on 649 946 4238.

It’s never been done before in the Turks & Caicos Islands.

In spite of the eco-conscious “green” movement that is sweeping the globe, Tropical Imaging’s new studio will be the first “green build” in the TCI. It’s an exciting new project that could break a path for others to follow. And best of all in these eco-nomically perilous times, Tropical Imaging owner Andy Mann expects the decision will save his company money in the long-run, besides creating a healthy workplace environment and doing his part to keep the world clean and green for his children.

Tropical Imaging is a very successful locally owned and operated studio, established in 1997. With a staff of eight, for over a decade they have grown slowly, step by step, from a simple underwater photography business to a leading storytelling company with full multimedia capability and skills more commonly seen in top U.S. studios rather than “the islands.” We at Times Publications greatly admire the work they do for our annual Destination Turks & Caicos Islands, the beautiful, coffee table-style book that you can find in your hotel room and take home as a souvenir.

A brainstorm in green

Andy, the Tropical Imaging staff and their equipment have outgrown a couple of office spaces over the years, and as they threatened to burst out of their current site, Andy started to think about trading monthly rent bills for a company-owned studio, tailor-made for their needs. As a former scuba-diving instructor who first came to the Turks & Caicos in 1995, he has always had a keen appreciation for nature. At the same time, he wanted to have some way to control the record-breaking utility bills of 2008. Fate or coincidence then played its role with a chance discovery of the Greenbuild International Expo in Boston in October 2008. Andy, always extremely forward-thinking in running the business, was so impressed with the ideas presented at the show that he decided to transplant them to the Turks & Caicos Islands.

Why is this so important? Andy explains, “The commercial and residential building sector accounts for 39% of the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the U.S. per year, more than any other sector. Most of these emissions come from the combustion of fossil fuels to provide heating, cooling and lighting, and to power appliances and electrical equipment. By transforming the built environment to be more energy-efficient and climate-friendly, the building sector can play a major role in reducing the threat of climate change.”

The impact of climate change on the Turks & Caicos Islands is particularly dire. With most of the country just slightly above sea level, ocean rising due to global warming will immediately affect TCI’s coast, especially its award-winning beaches and pricey real estate. An increase in the intensity and likelihood of tropical storms hurts both the resident population and visitors, as clearly evidenced by the hurricanes of 2008. As well, high-end tourists are becoming increasingly selective in choosing destinations and service providers that display “green credentials.”

Getting started

Andy’s first step was to secure a parcel of land in the newly developing east end of Leeward Highway, halfway between the roundabout heading into Grace Bay and the Leeward Development entrance. The site itself is simply “bush,” with nearby areas already slated for development, and not endangering any protected natural reserve or wetland. It was also right on Leeward Highway, making access a breeze.

Andy worked with architect Ron Shaw, Tim Sprakes from Construction Advisory Services and Chris Nesbitt and Steve Thompson from Projetech to create a blueprint for a small studio building, adapting the windfall of ideas he acquired from the Greenbuild convention, and, in particular, the RJ Walter Homes Home of the Future in California which, along with the worldwide “green community,” are eager to share knowledge. Andy explains, “It really was a team effort to make this work. Each ‘green’ element had to be evaluated to make sure it would work and make sense in TCI. It really was a partnership. You should see all the emails we have back and forth on this!”

Planning a green build

When designing a space to be an eco-friendly green build, there are three aspects to the equation:  firstly, reducing energy consumption inside and outside the building; secondly, designing to minimize energy losses and gains; and finally, employing renewable sources of energy to help power the building. With the availability of green building products greatly expanding, prices dropping and technology moving forward in leaps and bounds, there has never been a better time to build green.

To help reduce energy consumption, the team started with the obvious — low energy appliances and low energy light fittings — and moved up to using a state-of-the-art air conditioning system from local air conditioning company Aircool. Besides being designed to run at high efficiency, it also employs sensors to detect when people are and are not occupying various zones and raising or lowering temperatures accordingly, even shutting off automatically at the end of the day. While a substantial investment at the onset, Andy says one long-run benefit is in future cash flow, as monthly power bills will be greatly diminished. Another way of reducing consumption, and thus the “carbon footprint,” are placing special solar tubes in the roof to enhance all-natural lighting for the second floor.

To maximize energy conservation, in effect a building is “wrapped” to prevent loss of cool air (or hot air in northern climates). This, Andy explains, involves insulating the roof and walls and installing highly rated UV windows which reflect sunlight.

Only when energy consumption and conservation are managed does it make sense to consider “green” power. On the advice of several green-build experts, Andy has planned a hybrid system combining solar panels and wind generation to take advantage of the abundant sunshine and constant trade winds that have been a source of energy to the Islands for many generations. He selected the “I-pod” of wind turbines, the Skystream wind generator, a small, quiet unit set on a three-hinged pole to be easily dismantled in case of a storm. With three turbines and a small bank of solar panels on the land behind the site, he figured he could diminish the need to draw on PPC fossil-fuel generated power.

Some of the other eco-friendly modifications aren’t new to TCI residents:  the use of cisterns to capture rainwater, recycling “gray” water for irrigation, preserving as much natural bush as possible to minimize the use of imported plants that need fertilizing and pest control, and positioning the building to minimize east and west exposures. Others are more unique, including using bamboo flooring (a renewable material) at the entranceway, and adding a “power point” outside to plug in and charge his anticipated future electric van. Andy also plans to implement proper construction waste management and hopes that someday public transportation will be readily available in the TCI, making it more energy-efficient to commute.

Getting the OK

Prior to submitting his plans to the TCI Department of Planning for approval, Andy introduced the idea to Wesley Clerveaux, director of the TCI Department of Environment and Coastal Resources and Clyde Robinson, director of planning; both said to be quite keen on the concepts. At press time, however, parts of the plans had been initially turned down because no regulations were in place regarding the use of wind turbines for energy generation. Reports are that such regulations are being considered, as interest in and the need for sustainable energy resources continues to grow.

Tropical Imaging intends for the studio project to be Green Globes certified. Green Globes is an environmental assessment, education and rating system that is promoted in the U.S. by the Green Building Initiative. In comparison with national U.S. building stock, the average “green” certified building uses 24% less electricity and saves significant CO2 emissions annually. The program helps budding green builders every step of the way, providing an ongoing assessment protocol with related software tools and best practices guidance for construction and operation.

Meanwhile, Andy says he will forge ahead, as the energy savings still make sense. He will keep options open in hope that the wind turbines can be added later. Construction is  due to start in July and expected to be completed by the end of the year. This visionary dreams of a Turks & Caicos Islands someday employing only green power and electric vehicles, as a means of both protecting the planet and setting itself apart from other tourist destinations.

Tropical Imaging plans to document all aspects of the construction, planning and certification of the building, hoping to gain media exposure for the green build initiative and the Turks & Caicos Islands as a whole. Tropical Imaging continues to look for support from parties that are interested in helping them make the project a success.

For more information on Tropical Imaging’s green build, visit their blog at: http://www.brilliant.tc/greenbuilding/

New solid waste management plan is a model programme.

By Kathy Borsuk

If you’d like to see an image of post-Apocalypse Provo, take a trip to the “dump,” currently sprawling over a 27 acre site of formerly beautiful bush in the northwest corner of the island. The “flags” that mark your approach are fragments of plastic bags flapping in the breeze. You’ll be greeted by swarms of hungry flies as you dodge rusted appliances, chunks of lumber and other piles of trash that have tumbled off the backs of trucks and burst open on the way to the site.

Some days, visiting tourists view ugly black plumes of smoke as they make a landing approach to the airport. That’s from the burning of rubber tires and other debris at the dump site or from spot fires that occasionally erupt. And if the tradewinds stray from their easterly flow, residents of Wheeland and Blue Hills suffer the effects of choking, acrid fumes blowing over their homes and schools.

The situation is no better in Grand Turk, where the landfill was full to bursting before the ravages of Hurricane Ike and is now overflowing with the detritus left behind as nearly a year’s worth of garbage was created by the single storm. Waste management on the out-Islands mirrors the lack of proper separation, treatment and handling on a smaller scale.

As the number of residents and visitors to the Turks & Caicos Islands escalate, the amount of garbage grows exponentially, currently estimated at a ton per citizen annually and a ton and a half per tourist! Year by year, it becomes increasingly clear that the current, outmoded solid waste system does not meet the TCI’s aspiration to be a model of sustainable development.

The TCI Government’s initial waste management study was undertaken in 2001, followed by the 2005 Feasibility Study and Detailed Designs for a Revised Solid Waste Management Project. Results highlighted the clear need for an integrated system “which follows the life cycle of consumable products (from cradle to grave); provides an improved collection and disposal system; minimises waste generation and maximises . . . recycling and reuse . . . and increases public awareness and encourages stakeholders to take responsibility for the waste they produce.” In late 2007, tender was put forth for proposals to privatise the national solid waste management system and in March 2008, an initial 20-year contract was awarded to Turks & Caicos Environmental Management (TCEM).

TCEM includes a family whose members are, you might say, “garbage specialists.” Led by family patriarch Jim Hodge, an internationally recognized authority on waste disposal, the tradition is continued by his son Tim and longtime family friend, Geoffrey Starin, along with a team of highly-skilled engineers and specialists. The combined group offers over 100 years of experience in landfill design, permitting, construction, operation, waste collection/transfer, recycling and equipment financing. For instance, they designed, built, permitted and operated Roosevelt Regional Landfill in Washington State, USA, which processes 2.5 million tons of garbage annually – nearly 100,000 container-loads – arriving to the remote site by train, truck and barge.  Some of this refuse comes from the 30 municipal collection contracts they have developed and overseen, servicing 200,000 homes and collecting 400,000 tons of trash annually.

Besides bearing a long tradition of international partnerships, the group has a unique TCI connection. Jim and Tim have been part-time residents of the TCI for most of their lives. Jim’s parents, Russell and Alice Hodge, built the first home on Parrot Cay in 1971, and the extended family has spent much time there.

TCEM’s plan is to design, construct and operate a state-of-the-art solid waste landfill and refuse collection system for the Turks & Caicos Islands that will be a model for other Caribbean countries. The first step will be to fence, gate, secure and clean-up the existing dump sites. Next will be the construction of a brand-new landfill in Providenciales (including recycling facilities), waste collection and transfer stations for Grand Turk and Salt Cay, North, Middle and South Caicos, and implementation of a curbside residential trash collection program. According to TCEM President Tim Hodge, “Consolidating waste from the outer islands to a single landfill not only conserves land, but centralises refuge control and is most cost-efficient for a small country.”

The landfill design will meet or exceed U.S. EPA Subtitle D design standards and environmental controls. It will cover a newly created 27 acre area in 9 phases of 3 acres each. Existing ridges in the northwestern part of Providenciales form a natural bowl-like structure for the site and it is anticipated to have a minimum life of 20 years.

Once the base of the landfill is graded and prepared, a self-sealing geosynthetic clay liner is laid under a 60 mil layer of a polyethylene geomembrane. This thick plastic lining is designed to restrict water intrusion and filtration of “leachate” (the noxious, toxic “yuch” that results from garbage decomposition and rainfall) into the groundwater. Refuse will be spread and compacted daily over a small 100 x 50-foot working face and covered with a layer of soil to minimise odor. Built-in controls include a leachate collection system, in which the “dump drippings” are collected via a drainage blanket and piped into storage ponds, to be reintroduced to the landfill to speed decomposition. Run-off, erosion and sediment control is handled with stormwater collection ponds and a 35 foot perimeter berm. The natural methane gas produced by decomposition will be collected and flared off, eliminating 98% of the odor. (Eventually, plans are to integrate a bio-energy system that can produce enough electricity to power almost 1,500 of the nation’s homes.)

When each section of the landfill reaches capacity (an estimated two to three years), a 6 to 12-inch layer of foundation soil, another PVC geomembrane and a 2-foot thick layer of drainage soil will be put in place, followed by seeding of vegetation to create an esthetically pleasing mound.

Tim Hodge doesn’t underestimate the need for waste reduction not only to extend the life of the landfill, but trigger a sense of responsibility among residents and tourists. To this end, there will be a public recycling drop-off center at each waste collection facility. “Green waste” (plant cuttings, etc.) will be composted, scrap metal (including car bodies) and aluminum cans baled and transported for sale in Miami and paper/cardboard either re-sold or shredded into compost. Construction waste and moderate-risk refuse such as batteries and propane cylinders will be kept separate, as well.

TCEM plans to build proper waste collection stations on TCI’s other islands; fenced, gated and paved to provide a sanitary and efficient place to process refuse. Here, collection trucks unload garbage onto the “tipping floor,” where it is compacted into a top load container which has been lined with a giant plastic “garbage bag” to curtail leaks and odors. These neatly wrapped packs are placed in covered containers for hauling to a barge loading facility, where they will transported by barge to the Provo landfill. This system has worked extremely well for TCEM’s sister companies in Washington State (which collect, barge and haul garbage from numerous small islands in southeast Alaska and Hawaii to the Roosevelt Landfill.)

Eventually, TCEM will take over the residential curbside trash collection system, currently handled by the TCI Government. Each household will receive an attractive, sturdy, 96 gallon “toter” trash can, designed to be easily lifted via hydraulic tipper by TCEM’s fuel-efficient collection trucks which will collect refuse weekly. Plans are for 8 trucks to service 200 to 300 residences daily, following a weekly rotating schedule. Future plans include home sorting of recyclables and green waste, along with a public outreach program emphasising the importance of “Reducing, reusing and recycling.” TCEM will also support beach and street litter beautification programs and sponsor one annual college scholarship to a TCI student pursuing environmental studies.

Besides being based on strong local partnerships, TCEM’s proposal focuses on keeping jobs in the country, with local TCI businesses or citizens providing the bulk of the major and minor subcontracting services. In fact, other than technical and managerial oversight and the equipment unavailable in TCI, all works and services under the project are to be provided by local partners and local resources.

In response to the government’s procurement for the project, TCEM’s cost to government for this comprehensive program was dramatically less than its nearest competitors. At the same time, it received unanimous approval from both an 11-person technical review board and the tender board oversight committee.

When TCEM was awarded the contract in early 2008, their estimated time frame was:  three months to take over existing collections and start the new landfill; a year to  close the existing dumps and operate the waste transfer stations and about 14 months for the new landfill to be fully functional. With estimates of 200 tons of waste generated per day in Provo alone by 2010 and rising to 460 tons daily by 2025, there is no doubt of the need for swift implementation of this comprehensive programme.

Unfortunately, the effects of the September 2008 hurricanes, the global recession and uncertainty as to the future of the TCI government have, at press time, slowed the government’s final approval and funding of this much-needed infrastructure investment. Notwithstanding these difficult times, TCI Government remains committed to doing what is required to carry out this crucial project.

TCEM has agreed to a scaled-down, month-to-month start-up plan until the TCI Government and its budget stabilise. This would include creating a small, temporary landfill in Provo and the importation of equipment to aid in the Grand Turk clean-up. Eventually, hopes rest allocating the necessary resources from the new budget plan to fund this all-important tool to keep the Islands “Beautiful by Nature and Clean by Choice.”

The Turks & Caicos Islands have a long history of boat-building—combining the use of native materials, plans created in the minds of the local builder and lots of hard work and ingenuity.The end result is the colorful island sloops that are unique to the Turks & Caicos Islands.
North Caicos resident Howard Gibbs bears a similar passion for boat building; a dream that he recently turned into reality with the opening of North Caicos Boats in Bottle Creek. Here is his story.

I started North Caicos Boats because I have long held a passion for building a boat that is both beautifully crafted and strongly constructed. My wife and I have lived in the Turks & Caicos Islands for over 10 years. We love the beauty and peacefulness of North Caicos. We especially like to explore the uninhabited beaches on the out islands, fishing on the way there.
I wanted to build a boat that “fit” these Islands, so I started listing the features that are most important. Shoal drafted, so I could follow bonefish into the shallowest of water. Steady, so I could stand on a poling platform or up on the bow to cast my line. Lightweight, so I could travel for hours on a couple of gallons of fuel. Strong, so I could travel safely on a rough sea. And finally, blessed with a hull design that would slide through the water, providing a comfortable ride with a minimum of spray.
There is already a proud heritage of boat building in Turks & Caicos. The colorful island sailing sloop is beautiful to behold and should continue to be built by the talented local boat builders. But I ask, “Why stop there?” Fiberglass boatbuilding could also find a useful place here.
North Caicos Boats is a new company, but my experience and training as a boat builder goes back many years. It officially started when I entered an apprenticeship program in the 1960s with Merle Stevens Dry Dock in Miami, Florida. It continued in the Florida Keys, where I learned from fellow Key Largo Islander Willy Roberts, well known for his classic back country skiffs, as well as other craftsmen. I have built sailboats, small skiffs and large boats. During this time, I developed an eye for evaluating boat hulls for their performance capabilities, combining boatbuilding products so they set properly, spray-painting hulls at the correct rate and volume, and learned the many boatbuilding skills that are needed to create a professional product.
I recall the introduction of polyurethane paints such as Awlgrip and Imron in the 1970s. It was the first photochemically nonreactive paint available to boatbuilders and repair yards, advertised as “the sun won’t chalk, peel or change the color of the paint.” I attended a training class to learn the application techniques. It was extremely important to understand the proper mixture and volume of paint and how to use the spray gun equipment so that the paint was applied correctly. But the end result was well worth the effort. Before polyurethane, the topside marine paint only lasted for a couple of years due to sun damage. Boats painted with Awlgrip or Imron stand up to the sun for years and years.
For several years I operated a 53′ fishing charter boat out of Whale Harbor in Islamorada, Florida, which I had built in the 1970s. We offered deep sea fishing trips for the day or overnight. My boat caught the eye of 20th Century Fox film agents looking for a charter boat for the movie they were making in Miami. The chose my boat to be the Manta Four in the movie, “Cocoon Two, The Journey Back.” I was also hired to prepare the boat for the movie, using my skills in a very unexpected, but interesting way.
One of the first decisions I made for North Caicos Boats was choosing the hull design for my first production boat. The delta deadrise hull that I selected for the Shearwater 16 model was one that would deliver on all my criteria: shoal draft, strong, steady and fuel efficient. It is so important to choose a hull design that will perform well in the environment where it will be used.
The next step in fiberglass boat-building is building the mold of the chosen hull (“making a mold off the plug”). This is the most difficult aspect of the whole process. The surface of the original hull, or plug, must be as smooth as glass before you create the mold of it. Any irregularities or blemishes on the surface can prevent the mold from separating properly from the plug when it is time to pull them apart. In some cases, both the mold and the original boat hull are ruined when separated. This is where experience really pays off.
Many things have to be put in place to be able to build a boat. All the supplies, resins, fiberglass materials, cleats, lights, wiring, steering gear and paint (just to name a few items) must be available. This can be a challenge on North Caicos. It can sometimes take days, weeks and numerous phone calls to facilitate the transport and handling of items from Miami to Providenciales to North Caicos, and finally to the site of North Caicos Boats.
To get equipment and supplies from Provo to North Caicos presents some unique challenges. When items arrive in Provo, we pay the duty, arrange transport to the dock, then onto a boat to North Caicos, weather and sea conditions permitting. Sometimes transportation and fork lift service must be arranged on North Caicos. One incident comes to mind involving a new boat trailer I purchased in Miami. The trailer was sent on a pallet, wheels off, completely disassembled. It arrived at the deep water port in North Caicos in the late afternoon. I was quite dismayed to find the trailer in pieces on the ground. I gathered the few tools I had in my jeep and prepared to assemble the railer. I was even further disappointed to discover no instructions had been sent with the trailer. As day turned to evening, I worked furiously to put the trailer together, using one hand to slap away sand flies while the other hand assembled. I would not leave here without it! It was dark before we had it together.
Back to creating the mold . . . if the surface of the plug was correctly prepared and the mold-making supplies correctly applied, the mold comes off the plug easily and cleanly. The mold is now ready for creating exact replicas of the original boat hull. Knowing how to lay up fiberglass on the mold, where to apply resin at the best thickness and how to build the supports of the future boat are just a few of the decisions to be made as the new boat is built.
Many marine supplies are needed to finish a boat for sale. North Caicos Boats has some extra items on hand for sale to the general public. Resin and fiberglass have been popular, especially so just before the lobster season. We are affiliated with a major catalog sales outfit in Florida and can order just about any marine supply for someone needing them.
There is a large interest in boatbuilding already here in the TCI. It makes sense to me to develop a commercial business that could provide a livelihood for those interested and skilled in the trade. We live on islands, surrounded by beautiful seas. I believe there could be a market niche for producing fiberglass boats designed to travel well on these waters.
I would like to see North Caicos Boats grow into a company that exports boats to other countries. But at a minimum, NCB could provide custom built skiffs to TCI residents without the cost of travel and shipping from the States. And, our customers will have the opportunity to select deck and hull colors, the layout of the interior seating, the location of live wells and other choices that can be made while a boat is being put together. Here in the Islands, our customers can select a boat model that fits their needs and wallets.
As our business progresses, I envision starting an apprentice program for young people truly interested in learning the skills of fiberglass work. These skills could lead to a lifelong profession in building or repair, or simply help to work on their own boat.
I have started with a 16′ boat called the Shearwater 16. It is ideal for two persons, but can easily handle up to four. My next production boat will be a 21 or 23′ model, built more for the open seas than the shoreline and flats. These boats could also be customized to meet the needs of anyone looking for a boat of this size, perhaps even outfitted as a government patrol boat. And, the price would be very attractive.
The regattas that we have today are a joyous event for all. The colorful island sloops take a considerable amount of time, money and skill to build. Because they tend to have different sail areas and length on water, the largest boat with the largest sail tends to win the race. If a mold for a fiberglass sailboat was made, a class of sailboats could be produced for racing that was equal in basic design and sail. Then, the skill of the sailor would be the most important factor in who crossed the finish line first.
Boatbuilding, in whatever form, is an activity that complements tourism. Its history should be preserved and the building and racing of island sloops should be encouraged. But having custom fiberglass production boats, built here in the Turks & Caicos, available to residents and visitors alike, is another worthy endeavor that could ultimately make it easier for everyone to enjoy the exquisite turquoise waters surrounding us.

Folks in the Turks & Caicos Islands love their phones. Whether walking down the street, shopping, working out, getting a haircut or (gulp!) even driving, there’s often a cell phone pressed to ear. Ring tones blare from pockets and purses in any group setting.
I think it has something to do with the old “Coconut Telegraph” which, before the days of telephone service, was the word-of-mouth system in which news (and gossip) travelled across the country in hours! Cell phones simply make the process faster and easier. In fact, it’s been reported that phone penetration in the TCI is about 150% (counting infants, children and the elderly), which comes out to about two phones per adult!
Since deregulation of the telecommunications industry in 2006, several companies have entered the marketplace to offer competitive cellular or Internet service. What follows is the David and Goliath story of one of those companies, home-grown Islandcom.

For over 100 years, British behemoth Cable & Wireless Ltd. (now LIME) was the sole telecommunications provider in the Turks & Caicos Islands. The pan-Caribbean company had built and maintained the TCI’s communications system from the ground up, taking it from land lines and specialized business services to state-of-the-art mobile and Internet technologies so that the Islands were always on the cutting edge of communications.
In the spirit of liberalization, in 2003 the TCI Government created a Telecommunications Commission which worked over a period of several years to deregulate the industry. It was during this time (2004) that Caesar Campbell and his mother-in-law and Salt Cay native Sandra Garland began to dream. Sandra recalls, “Caesar planted the idea in my head of starting up a ‘homegrown’ telephone company. We would focus exclusively on serving the TCI market, management would be based in the country, and we would be very flexible and capable of meeting the specific needs of the local community. The more I thought about it, the more enthusiastic I became.”
TCI resident James Golob shared their enthusiasm. With decades of international experience in the industry, Mr. Golob believed that with the right investors and resource people, such a company could be competitive in the local marketplace. He became the first director and Islandcom Telecommunications was born. Managing Director Sandra Garland, a well-known local businesswoman, applied for their telecommunications license.
After long months of discussions by government to put the proper legal structures in place, in 2006 Islandcom was finally awarded a license to offer mobile phone service in the Turks & Caicos Islands. However, there was a lot of work to do before the first customers could start to use the assigned 431-, 432-, 441- and 442- numbers to start to talk! Chris Taylor, a telecommunications professional with 10 years of experience in the Americas and an associate of the investors, joined Islandcom as CEO to pilot the infant company into the market. Chris explains, “The first thing we did was install the local network infrastructure — everything from switching to information systems and base stations. Because we did not want to mar the beautiful landscape with unnecessary duplicate towers, we leased some towers from other providers.”
The early days were a time of ironing out the “bumps in the road” of any technically complex process. A total of 16 cell sites, 8 in Providenciales alone, were set up to provide coverage across Providenciales, North, Middle and South Caicos, and Grand Turk. Retail outlets and business offices were opened in Graceway House on Providenciales and Windmills Plaza on Grand Turk. Always in mind was Islandcom’s goal of “providing world-class cellular service with the touch of a local company” and their motto of “People Connecting.” As Chris explains, “Because our customer service reps and technicians are all based in the Turks & Caicos, when a customer calls and says, ‘I dropped a call by the cemetery in the Bight’ (for instance), our on-island staff know just where the location is. This makes it much easier and quicker for Islandcom to effectively respond to our customers.”
This adaptability was put to the test after Hurricane Ike struck the Turks & Caicos Islands this September. Mr. Taylor proudly reports that service was uninterrupted in Provo throughout and after the storm, and was restored in Grand Turk after two weeks. In fact, Islandcom was able to quickly replace four generators and network equipment damaged in the storm to keep things running at their Grand Turk and other sites, and also gave away 100 phones to Grand Turk residents to help them stay in touch while land lines were down in the storm’s aftermath.
Sandra says that their initial marketing has largely been by (appropriately) word of mouth. Besides the local focus, Islandcom offers significant savings on rates to North America and Europe, and a variety of service plans to make it inexpensive to keep in touch within the Islands. Both post-pay and pre-pay plans are on offer, with access to a variety of Islandcom value added services. For instance, they’ve recently launched “Unlimited inNet Calling,” where for only $15/month, iPostpay customers can call anyone within the Islandcom network and talk as long as they want, all day, every day. Also available are AnywhereMinutes, which allow subscribers to use their plan’s minutes to make local landline calls, Islandcom on-net mobile to mobile calls and international calls to the U.S., Canada and U.K. — without paying additional fees. With 250 minutes available for $35, this is quite a deal!
Mobile data services provide customers with access to mobile web and existing email accounts. Islandcom also allows subscribers to send text messages to any mobile phone around the world at the most competitive rates, with incoming messages always free. Voicemail boxes, call waiting, three-way calling and caller ID are also free.
Islandcom’s iPrepay services offer no connection fees, no credit check and no monthly bills! ITopUp Airtime Cards are readily available from dealers across the Islands.
A tour through Islandcom’s retail outlets in Graceway Plaza and Ports of Call reveals displays of the latest cell phones from Nokia, Motorola, Samsung, HTC, Sony Ericsson and Sierra. Islandcom is the exclusively launched dealer for HTC’s brand new “Google Phone,” and its latest arrival (at press time) were the Walkman Phone, Nokia E71 and HTC Touch smartphones. Special discounts on selected phones are always available and some service packages include free phones.
In October 2008, Islandcom welcomed Bermuda Digital Communications Ltd. (BDC) as their lead strategic shareholder. Chris Taylor explains this savvy move, “BDC is one of the leading telecommunications companies in Bermuda (they operate under the CellularOne brand there) and we feel they are perfect partners. BDC will greatly expand our financial resources, technical capacity and purchasing power to develop Islandcom into its full potential.” BDC CEO Kurt Eve is similarly enthusiastic, “We are glad to have this opportunity to invest in Islandcom. The company has a good network and excellent staff in place, and we plan to take this young, energetic business and help build on its success.”
As a result, Islandcom’s plans for the future include adding additional cell sites to expand wireless coverage to West Caicos, Salt Cay and Ambergris Cay as well as introducing international roaming agreements in 2009 that will allow customers to roam when they are travelling outside the country. With this in place, marketing efforts will intensify and Islandcom will be set to increase their market share, while also supporting TCI’s overall growth and development.
Currently, Islandcom operates with 17 employees, of which 80% are Belongers. Chris Taylor and Sandra Garland both agree that their goal is to eventually hand over the CEO’s reins to a Turks & Caicos Islander . . . they’re just looking for the right person.
As trailblazers in the TCI telecommunications market — taking on the “Goliaths” of the industry with a commitment to stay locally focused — Islandcom, as “David,” is not shying away from competition, but aiming high and strong.

By Kathy Borsuk ~ Photos By Christine Morden, Provo Pictures

Michelangelo is considered a virtuoso for his paintings on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel; Michael Caffiero and his crew at Caffiero Painting Co. TCI are virtuosos in painting not only ceilings    . . . but walls, trim, decks, railings and just about every surface of the many new and existing structures spanning the Turks & Caicos Islands.

With virtuoso being defined as having “masterly skill or technique in the arts,” Michael Caffiero has worked hard to blend his years of experience with a reputation for professionalism. He explains, “Since we got started here in TCI in 2005, my goal is to run a full-service painting company that supplies and installs quality products led by trained professionals.”

The robust, straightforward Caffiero, never long without a cigarette in his hand, says he’s spent his whole life painting . . . or at least since the age of 16. That’s when he was taught by Walter Schmitz, a German from Long Island New York, the man who gave him a chance and had the foresight to see that he had the drive for perfection. (Although when dealing with less then perfect surfaces and situations, Caffiero qualifies, “You need to create the illusion of perfection.”)

With nearly 30 years of experience behind his brush and running Caffiero Painting in Hawthorne, New York since 1990, Michael came on vacation to Providenciales in 2002 with his wife Alexandra. He explains, “Our good friends who lived here suggested that the Islands could use an experienced painting company, but I was here to relax, not to expand. Actually, it was my wife who encouraged me to open up shop here. Without her intuition and support, this never would have happened.” After returning a week later to investigate the options, Caffiero decided to start small and went into business with a local partner, one truck (the same one that’s always dashing around Provo) and a handful of painters from his operation in New York. He recalls, “We faced tremendous hurdles and lost a lot of money at the beginning, but we were committed to doing it right from the start.”

To this perfectionist, “doing it right” means a number of things. “First of all, we offer full service. This means that we take care of everything relating to painting from start to finish. This includes all the prep work, moving and protecting furnishings, cleaning up . . . in fact, we usually take pictures of the rooms so we know exactly how to put everything back in place. Then there’s the trust factor. I am a man of my word and I expect my crew to follow suit. Not only does this mean that we complete the terms of our contract for the price quoted, but that owners can trust us with their keys, knowing their home and its contents will be secure. A lot of our smaller customers I have never met, including some of the famous people with houses on Parrot Cay. We just go in, do the job, clean up and leave. When they return, their house is just as they left it – except freshly painted.”

Caffiero also relies on his extensive knowledge and industry contacts to choose the proper paints for a project and determine how and when to apply them. He uses Benjamin Moore products, which are publicly accepted and known worldwide, and maintains a large inventory of paint and supplies on-island, ready to be mixed as needed. When working as a contractor for larger developments, Michael says an important part of his job is understanding the role of the other trades and knowing “when it’s his turn,” to avoid back-tracking or expensive revisions. He also says he feels a professional responsibility to recommend the best product for the job (especially important in an island environment) and speak up when he sees a client – large or small – making a mistake. “Our customers know that we know the painting business period . . . if they have any question related to paint they know we will have the correct answer.”

After touring several sites, I can concur that “crispness” and “perfection” (or at least its illusion) are Caffiero trademarks. Moldings, baseboards, doorways and ceiling/wall interfaces sport “razor-sharp” lines, while large surfaces, indoors and out, are uniformly colored and blemish free as a clear summer sky. Michael thinks that no job is too small. “If I paint your closet, no doubt I’m going to paint your house . . . and your neighbor’s house and the house down the street . . . that’s how confident I am in our work. Most of our jobs come from referrals by satisfied clients.”

Michael Caffiero credits his loyal crew for maintaining the company’s high standards. Led by Antonio Espinosa, formerly one of his lead painters from New York, and coordinated by Michael himself, his work force is carefully trained to his specifications to handle any job and includes trusted family members and friends.  Michael explains, “I know everyone’s best talents and can assign them to jobs that bring out the best in them.” The respect with which I saw “the boss” treat his crew is reflected with a strong sense of loyalty. In fact, Michael says he is like a father figure to some of the younger workers, who are away from home for the first time and struggling to get used to a new environment. Having each employee wear a clean “Caffiero” t-shirt and white pants on the job fosters an image of professionalism. “When I enter a job site, I and everyone there know exactly who my guys are.”

The Caffiero TCI portfolio is varied and steadily growing, with an estimated 25/75% ratio of existing homes and businesses to new construction. Some projects are more plebian, such as Quality Supermarket, The Saltmills Plaza and parts of Graceway IGA. Others comprise the hospitality sector, such as re-spraying all the louvered windows at Ocean Club or painting The Alexandra, Grace Bay Suites and the new SkyBase terminal. Still others represent the country’s upscale market, including The Somerset penthouses, several celebrity homes on Parrot Cay and, most recently, the Isle Homes at Leeward Marina and the entire interior of the new Nikki Beach Resort. But Michael Caffiero will never forget his first real job as a sub-contractor for Johnston International. “We were new to the island and really excited about being hired to paint the St. Charles condominiums on North Caicos. Then we realized we had to use a boat to ferry our guys and all the supplies over to North everyday. It was a challenging job, but we passed the test.”

Indeed they did. Besides the massive Leeward Marina project, TCI building mogul Johnston International has also contacted Caffiero to discuss painting the long-awaited hospitals on Providenciales and Grand Turk. Rob Marks, Johnston’s building project manager, explains why Caffiero Painting is right for their jobs. “We require quality, detail and professionalism and they supply the whole package. I like the fact that Michael always returns phone calls and emails and shows up when we need him. He’s able to answer our questions quickly and thoroughly. In industry, it’s important to have that close working relationship. For the hospital projects, he worked with his supplier to come up with just the right material for the project’s environment and was able to secure quality products at a lesser cost. This is someone who is in tune with his profession.”

To successfully work on larger projects calls for special skills, explains the savvy Caffiero. “When writing your estimate, you have to choose the best product for the best price, and developers are consistently demanding high-end finishes, yet want to remain competitive. You have to be able to function inside what’s already occurring on site – there’s often a lot going on at the same time – and work extra or odd hours to finish under tight deadlines. I also think its key to take responsibility for any unexpected issues that come up. Handling them positively and successfully only enhances your reputation.”

As business expands, Michael Caffiero gave up his New York operation to focus exclusively on the Islands. “Because of my personality and way of doing business, I like to be very hands-on. Dividing my time just didn’t work anymore.” His love for the country, its people and its beautiful sea, was also an enticement. “To me it’s priceless to be able to be here, enjoy the place and earn a living at the same time. The business gives me an opportunity to do just that. I have no desire to go anywhere else.” In fact, with a new island partner and miles of unpainted surfaces on the horizon, he assures the community that “We’re here to stay.”

Michael Caffiero can be reached at 649 941 4615 or mcaffiero@caffieropainting.com.

By Claudia Camozzi, Director of Communications, Financial Services Initiative

Whether as a property or business owner, development or construction company, TCI financial services and products can help you with two things every investor requires: growing your investments and protecting your assets. Following is an overview of some of the products and services that may be of interest to you, available within the beautiful Turks & Caicos Islands —  just below the Tropic of Cancer, but right above your feet.

The economy of the Turks & Caicos Islands has been driven in recent years by fantastic growth in tourism and the related field of property development. The TCI financial services sector has supported this on-island growth for many years. In fact, the Turks & Caicos has established a track record in the financial industry, providing services such as banking, trusts, mutual funds, insurance, investments and incorporations.

Real estate development in the Turks & Caicos has contributed to an 11% year-on-year growth. This fluctuates between first or second in the world. To date, the return on realty has been excellent, thanks also to the country’s stunning natural beauty and the ever-decreasing availability of pristine land in the Caribbean. But the Islands also offer a variety of other investment vehicles, as well as advice for the returns generated by these projects.

TCI investment options

Should you prefer a more hands-off approach to placing your money, banks and funds in the TCI offer a range of products, with varying degrees of return or interest, depending on the length of the investment and, of course, adjusted to reflect one’s risk. In this case, managed funds place your investment in a variety of income funds ranging from stocks, bonds and currencies to local mortgages.

If you prefer to be more directly involved with the placement of your money, there are a number of investment dealers and advisors who can provide money management and advice. Either way, thresholds to investment can be very modest and the vehicles you choose may be as simple or complicated as you prefer.

Trustworthy TCI trusts

Having grown your assets through your purchase of land or property, small business or financial investments, the Turks & Caicos Islands also offer a range of services to protect your assets and your family’s financial future. These are not just for the “Forbes Rich List,” but could be useful to any investor in the TCI.

For more long-term protection of assets, TCI offers comprehensive Trust services. You can choose whether the Trust should be established as a Fixed Trust (where you define the interests of the beneficiaries on the distribution of money or capital) or as a Discretionary Trust (where the Trustee is given wide powers to make distributions). There are a number of advantages to establishing a TCI Trust, for example:

• TCI Trust legislation, unlike many other jurisdictions, allows Trusts to be held in perpetuity so you will not need to establish an end-date to the Trust.
• There is no obligation to register a TCI Trust and no requirement to register the Trust deed or assets, thus providing confidentiality regarding the Trust’s affairs.
• TCI Trusts immediately protect assets placed in them against creditor claims (as long as you are not already insolvent or become insolvent by creating the Trust).

Trusts are not only useful protection vehicles, but can also be used as investment vehicles, since investment managers may be employed to manage the assets. This means that your investment can mature safely.

Assuring insurance solutions

In the short term, you can ensure your well-being (and that of your family and your assets) through a range of insurance products designed for the needs (and risks) of the local market. This extends from basic car, home and medical insurance, to more sophisticated levels of cover.

Contractors and developers can benefit from insurance of buildings and materials on site, including  damages (e.g. flood, fire, hurricane) caused during construction. Cover for public and employers’ liability is also very important, and although not required by law, can be particularly useful given the duty of care that nonetheless is part of common law.

Developers can benefit from insurance cover on buildings and common areas as required by Strata Legislation. Unit owners can add to the areas covered by their strata agreements, for example through additional liability (useful if the property is rented for short lets), contents and rental cover.

Businesses can benefit from a range of insurance policies covering their stocks and inventory, business interruption and loss of profits (for example, in the event of a hurricane) and errors and omissions, particularly for professionals providing advice to clients.

Arranging insurance policies with domestically licensed insurers is usually much cheaper than using US or other foreign insurance policies. In addition, as a British Overseas Territory, the traditions follow British overseas insurance policies which do not suffer from the limitations of US insurance. For example, home owners’ and fire insurance includes flood and hurricane damage as standard. Local insurers also provide the benefits of a local help desk.

Having made astute investments in the Turks & Caicos Islands, the logical next step is growing and protecting your nest egg — and TCI financial services can help with that. Increasingly, we are developing platforms for investing through Turks & Caicos into emerging markets. In the coming months, new initiators will be brought on-stream to provide TCI investors with a greater variety of choices of investment vehicles. However, the real story is that our stable government serves as TCI’s bedrock of investor confidence.

The Turks & Caicos Islands are growing faster than almost every other nation on Earth. Come grow with us.