cayman compass Your most trusted news source Established 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 14-20 January 2022 compass $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 14-20 January 2022 The Compass on the pandemic frontline Page 5 Isolation rules relaxed amid public outcry Page 15 The Compass on the pandemic frontline ON THE COVID WARD Photo: Taneos Ramsay 2022 Burger King Corporation. Yumbo ham & cheese cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism Weekly, 28 January - 3 February 2022 Gang killers planned armed jail break, court hears Page 5 Honouring Cayman’s heroes Pages 12, 14 and 15 The making of a champion Cayman golfer Aaron Jarvis, 19, has big ambitions after regional win sends him to US Masters Page 8 Photo: Enrique Berardi/LAAC Try the NEW TM & © 2022 Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc. cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 11-17 February 2022 World’s most expensive drug only hope for baby Violet Page 6 First ‘Stealth Omicron’ case reported Page 3 Remembering philanthropist Linda Palmer Page 12 2022 Burger King Corporation. Go Big Big King The house that hope built Page 18 Photo: Taneos Ramsay cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 22-28 April 2022 Tourism operators weigh value of returning cruise ships Page 3 Business sector calls for end of mask mandate Page 6 2022 Burger King Corporation. ® cayman compass Weekly, 22-28 April 2022 operators weigh value of returning cruise ships Page 3 sector calls for end of mask mandate Page 6 Bullet-riddled planes and a suitcase of cash The full story of Cayman’s unwitting role in America’s Cold War invasion of Cuba Page 22 Photo of plane: Ragnhild and Neil Crawford Established 1965 $333 million cayman compass $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 13-19 May 2022 Cayman loses two icons Page 3 Batabano in pictures Pages 14-15 Your most trusted news source A revolution in training Pages 18-20 The cost of COVIDPage 2 2022 Burger King Corporation. Time to cool o Grab a Shake, Sundae or Soft Serve Cone. Chocolate, Vanilla, Caramel and OREO cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 24-30 June 2022 Dart buys Sister Islands electricity company Page 5 In photos: Power of the Purse Page 10 Extra Long Philly Cheeseburger 2022 Burger King Corporation. Philly Cheese Cayman's pet problem Overpopulation fuelling animal abuse and neglect Pages 22-24 PHOTO: TANEOS RAMSAY cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 25 March - 1 April 2022 Issues How rising sea levels could reshape Cayman Page 22 SMOOTH SAILING? Mixed feelings as cruise ships return Page 5 Photo: Taneos Ramsay BK Big Fish April 1st -3rd, Awards dinner April 4th AWARDS PRESENTATION: 7:00 pm on Monday, April 4th upstairs at the GTYC Restaurant and pool Register Now at results. shcayman.com or in person at GTYC on 31st March, 6pm Free beer! cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 18-24 March 2022 Life-saving treatment for toddler Page 11 From Humane Society to mountain top Page 30 Compass fi lm at Documentary Festival Page 27 From Humane Society to mountain BK Big Fish April 1st -3rd, Awards dinner April 4th AWARDS PRESENTATION: 7:00 pm on Monday, April 4th upstairs at the GTYC Restaurant and pool Register Now at results. shcayman.com or in person at GTYC on 31st March, 6pm Over $50,000 in cash and prizes to be won with giveaways for all participants! Investigating the Caribbean front of the economic war on Russia Page 16 SANCTIONS & SUPERYACHTS cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 29 July - 4 August 2022 Police investigate toddler’s death on Brac Page 2 Government releases census data Page 6 Cayman competes in Commonwealth Games Page 24 Labour shortages loom across sectors Recruitment crisis amid cost-of-living challenge. Page 5 Could a 4-day work week attract more staff? Page 18 Red Bay Seven Mile Beach Waterfront Walkers Road 100% hoppe r® 0% Beef 100% Whop per ® 0% Beef 100% Whop per ® 0% Beef Patty made from plants. TM & 2022 Burger King Corporation. Impossible is a trademark of Impossible Foods Inc. Used under license. GOODBYE SNOOZE 2022 Burger King Corporation. Hello Ultimate Pancake Platter cayman compass Your most trusted news source Established 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 22-28 July 2022 Gillie Seymour: A coach of football and life Page 6 Issues: PACT education performance report Pages 18-20 Jarvis hits big time Page 24 Under siege Tourism businesses struggle beneath weight of sargassum threat Page 5 Photo: Taneos Ramsay TM & © 2022 Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc. cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 10-16 June 2022 Two iron men in race of their lives Page 6 Queen’s Jubilee celebrations Pages 11-13 Page 18 Photo: Taneos Ramsay Page 18 Photo: Taneos Ramsay Petrol price woes Premier: No end to rising fuel costs Page 3 Photo: Taneos Ramsay cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 1-7 July 2022 Government extends pension holiday Page 10 Little Cayman cat cull resumes Page 16 Brac boaters hailed as heroes Page 7 Unmasking Cayman Brac boaters hailed as heroes Cayman Art Week in photos Page 14 CayMAS this weekend Page 24 New chapter begins as mandatory masks, pre-arrival testing ditched. Page 5 TM & © 2022 Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc. cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 8-14 July 2022 Cayman Airways to launch LAX route Page 8 CayMAS in photos Pages 14-15 The final Frontier New road likely to bring development to Cayman’s last wilderness. Page 18 Aaron Jarvis heads to Open Championship at St Andrews Page 24 New road likely to bring development to Cayman’s last wilderness. Page 18 Cayman's black market in abortion pills Compass investigates illegal trade: Pages 18-20 cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 15-21 July 2022 Photo: Taneos Ramsay cayman compass Your most trusted news source Established 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 12-18 August 2022 Hungry households lean on charities for help Pages 18-21 Miss Cayman Universe faces court on assault charges Page 10 Fraud and football: Executives stand trial Page 3 2 8 $ for Yumbo Ham & Cheese Whopper® Crispy Chicken Original Chicken Sandwich Big Fish Mix n’ Match 2022 Burger King Corporation. Make it spicy Make it spicy 2 8 $ for Yumbo Ham & Cheese Whopper® Crispy Chicken Original Chicken Sandwich Big Fish Mix n’ Match 2022 Burger King Corporation. Make it spicy Make it spicy cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 26 August - 1 September 2022 Cayman tourism leaders eye sector revival Page 5 Growing population strains school capacity Pages 18-21 3 miles down: Exploring the deep Page 6 SEA CHANGE Court confi rms Conservation Council’s powers in landmark rulingPage 3 2022 Burger King Corporation. Y U M Time Fries Supporting locals since 1982 2022 Burger King Corporation. cayman compass Your most trusted news source Established 1965 No-confidence motion prompted by Bush allegations Page 5 Cayman prepares for storm Page 2 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 23-29 September 2022 Bouncing back State of tourism across the region Pages 16-18 cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism Friday, 21-27 January 2022 Quarantine scrapped for unvaccinated children Page 3 Remembering Red Bay Plaza Page 20 100-mile run in coach Larner’s memory Page 22 Try the NEW TM & © 2022 Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc. cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism Friday, 21-27 January 2022 Balancing act COVID restrictions may breach human rights Page 15 cayman compass Your most trusted news source Established 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 1-7 April 2022 Rampant infl ation and fl uctuating fuel costs Pages 8 & 15 Young activists seek action on climate change Page 7 Free Family Fishing Clinic Saturday & Sunday, April 2-3, 12pm-4pm, GTYC Barcadere Marina WHAT LIES BENEATH Stark warnings about the future of Cayman's reefs Page 16 Photo: Alvaro Serey cayman compass Your most trusted news source Established 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 8-14 April 2022 INTERVIEW Premier Wayne Panton on tackling Cayman’s climate challenges Page 18 MASTER CLASS High-flying Caymanians hit the big time Aaron Jarvis: Golfer at the Masters Page 26 - Photo: Masters Images/Augusta National Club Darren McLean: Pilot reaches for the sky Page 3 – Photo: Alvaro Serey Alexia Williams: Angler sets record Page 27 – Photo: Seaford Russell Jr James Green: Student heads for Oxbridge Page 6 – Photo: Submitted Stackin’ up Single Stacker Double Stacker Triple Stacker Quadruple Stacker cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 9-15 September 2022 Queen Elizabeth II dies 1926-2022 cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 compass Our new King Charles III proclaimed monarch ahead of Queen's state funeral Page 5 Tributes paid in speeches, fl owers and messages Pages 6-7 The Queen’s funeral: when and where to watch Page 8 In pictures: Cayman in mourning Pages 16-17 $1 | Weekly, 16-22 September 2022 The future king during his 2019 visit to the Cayman Islands. - Photo: GIS 100% Butte rCroissant made th Mix n’ Match Sausage, Egg & Cheese Croissan’wich® Bacon, Egg & Cheese Croissan’wich® 2 5 $ for * 2021 Burger King Corporation. cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 7-13 October 2022 Bush resigns Plans to step down as Speaker on 30 Nov. Pages 5-6 In photos: Big Shave/ Breast Cancer Foundation Gala Pages 14-17 Photo: Taneos Ramsay Issues: Storms reshaping Cayman's coastline Pages 22-23 cayman compass Your most trusted news source Established 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly 30 September - 6 October 2022 EASTERN AVENUE TM & © 2021 Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc. Hello Family. Meals. 8PC 12PC 16PC 1 Lg Side 4 Biscuits 2 Lg Side 6 Biscuits 3 Lg Side 8 Biscuits Hello Family. Meals. PC $375 2L pepsi or pepsi product Sideswiped by Ian As Florida deals with devastation, Cayman asks are we ready for the big one? Pages 5-8, 22-24 Photo: Taneos Ramsay cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Friday, 23-29 December 2022 Construction industry reeling from costs increase Pages 20-21 A hero’s welcome for Cayman’s first world champion Jordan Crooks Pages 26-29 Golden future Photo of the week Page 4 A very sneezy Christmas amid ‘viral siege’ Page 6 Photo: Seaford Russell Jr. WIN BIG! over $40,000 worth of prizesE s t . 1982 i n C AY M A N ~ 4 0YE AR SANNIVERS AR Y ~ 40 Scratch card with every purchase over $4! T&Cs apply. Purchases over $4 will receive one scratch and win card per transaction. While stocks last. Available on all purchases over $4 from the 23rd of December 2022 - 1st of February 2023 at all Cayman locations. Valid until 23rd December 2023. Can not be redeemed with the same transaction. make it EASTERN AVENUE $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 21-27 October 2022 Deputy premier fl oats 30-storey building policy Page 24 In photos: Cayman’s high school graduates Pages 16-17 Assault trial begins for Miss Cayman Islands Page 6 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 21-27 October 2022 Established 1965Your most trusted news source cayman compass Smoking gun Single weapon responsible for multiple violent crimes Pages 20-21 100% Butte r Croissant made th Mix n’ Match100% Butte r Croissant made th Sausage, Egg & Cheese Croissan’wich® Bacon, Egg & Cheese Croissan’wich® 2 6 $ for * 2022 Burger King Corporation. cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 28 October - 3 November 2022 Ramsay-Hale sworn in as fi rst female chief justice Page 5 Meet new health chief Dr. Nick Gent Page 6 Cruise numbers to halve in next 2 years Page 20 Battle for the beach Unlicensed vendors vie for tourist trade Pages 24-26 Photo: Taneos Ramsay Ramsay-Hale sworn in as fi rst female chief justice Meet new health chief Dr. Nick Gent cayman compass Your most trusted news source Established 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 4-10 November 2022 Cayman airlift taking off Pages 5-6 Family seeks justice after ‘brutal’ murder Page 10 BUILDING HOPE Revived efforts to address housing crisis Pages 20-22 Photo: Taneos Ramsay TM & © 2022 Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc. cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 9-15 December 2022 Cayman in the spotlight Islands' budding movie industry takes centre stage Pages 28-30 Photo: Thomas Williamson/@thomasw.photo cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 16-22 December 2022 Premier: ‘Numbers’ run by international crime syndicates Page 7 Record turtle nests reported in Cayman Page 16 Jordan Crooks swims in World Championship fi nal Page 38 ID cards on the way Government approves voluntary identity systemPage 6 reported in Cayman Issues: Lost in the criminal system Pages 32-34 TM & © 2022 Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc. TM & © 2022 Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc. cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 Air show returns to the skies this weekend Pages 6-7 cayman compass Your most trusted news sourceEstablished 1965 Why we run $1 | Weekly, 2-8 December 2022 Motivated marathoners share reasons for hitting the road Pages 38-39 cayman compass Your most trusted news source Established 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 11-17 November 2022 Stiffer penalties proposed for gambling offences Page 5 Cayman Airways launches direct LAX route Page 10 In photos: Cayman Islands Triathlon Page 30 Prices go through the roof Interest rates send mortgages skyrocketing, as inflation impacts food costs Pages 24-26 Cayman teen speaks at House of Commons Page 20 Runner-up to represent Cayman at Miss Universe Page 7 Year in Review 2022 2022 cayman compass Your most trusted news source Established 1965 $1 | Funding local journalism | Weekly, 30 December - 5 January 150 arrested in Operation Winter Guardian Page 5 In Memoriam: Who we lost in 2022 Page 15 Looking back at the stories that made the news in 2022 From page 7Cayman Airways to charge US$25 fee for checked bags From 1 Feb. 2023, it will cost Cayman Airways passengers a fixed fee of US$25 per bag, for the first two items of checked luggage on all international flights. According to a press release from the national flag carrier, the airline’s standard weight allowance “will remain as one of the most generous in the industry at 55lbs per bag”. The airline stated the move will bring customers in some markets a fee reduction of up to US$10, but a slight increase of up to US$5 in others. The existing baggage allowances and fees for domestic flights between Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac and Little Cayman will remain unchanged, according to CAL. Passengers travelling in business class are entitled to fly with three free checked bags, on all routes. Sir Turtle Rewards platinum level members can travel with two free checked bags, and those with gold status get the first checked bag free. Sir Turtle Club members receive a complimentary first bag on every flight. The airline’s rates for additional checked bags remain unchanged. “Our newly standardized checked-bag fee for the first and second bag remains substantially lower than industry standard fees, as every effort has been made to keep our baggage rates as reasonable as possible for our valued passengers,” explained Cayman Airways president and CEO, Fabian Whorms, in the press release. Weather service: Rain to dissipate by New Year’s Eve It’s been a rainy few days in Cayman, but the forecast is indicating clearer skies for the new year. According to the National Weather Service, from 25-28 Dec., 4.76 inches of rain was recorded locally. Meteorologist Gilbert Miller told the Compass that some isolated showers are expected over the next few days as a stationary cold front over the northern Caribbean slowly dissipates. Fireworks are scheduled at several venues on New Year’s Eve, and organisers are hoping the current rainy weather and cloudy skies will have improved by then – something Miller says is looking likely. “The models do not show any significant activity around us on Dec 31st so we can all ring in the new year festively,” he said. DEH: Don’t dump your Christmas tree, let us shred it The Department of Environmental Health is inviting the public to deposit their natural Christmas trees at drop-off points around Grand Cayman from early in the new year. Collection bins will be placed at several locations across the islands from 2 Jan. in a bid to reduce the amount of waste entering the George Town landfill. The bins will be in place until 31 Jan. They can be found at: Ed Bush Stadium, West Bay; George Town Cricket Field; George Town landfill public drop-off area; Spotts Dock; and the entrance of Frank Sound Rd. Residents are reminded to remove all wires, lights, ornaments and stands from Christmas trees before they are placed into collection bins. The trees will later be shredded and free mulch will be made available to members of the public. HSA introduces clear masks to help patients with impaired hearing The Health Services Authority has introduced clear face masks for staff, so that patients who are hearing impaired can request that their healthcare provider wear them. HSA’s Chief Executive Officer Lizzette Yearwood said in a statement, “When staff wear transparent masks, persons who are deaf and hard of hearing, are then able to read lips and see facial expressions. At HSA, we are constantly working towards improving our inclusivity and our patients’ overall experience, which is why we’ve included this option of clear masks for those who need it.” Face masks are still required in HSA medical facilities across the islands for staff, patients and visitors. The organisation says it realises that this makes communication a challenge for people who have hearing difficulties. Those patients now can request their doctor or nurse use a clear mask to communicate with them more effectively. This option is available at the Cayman Islands Hospital, outpatient clinics and district health centres. Matinees (matinee price before 6pm) • Seniors $9.00 (Mon-Fri before 6pm) Additional charges apply per 3D/VIP tickets 640-FILM (640-3456) Cayman Cinema@cbcinema6cbcinema6 SATURDAY NIGHT: For your viewing pleasure, minors under the age of 18 will not be admitted to any lm starting after 6pm, unless accompanied by their parent. AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER (PG-13) (FRI) 12:35 VIP | 2:00 3D | 3:50 3D VIP | 4:15 3D | 4:35 VIP | 6:30 8:00 3D VIP | 8:15 3D | 9:30 VIP (SAT, MON, WED & THURS) 12:35 VIP | 2:05 | 3:50 3D VIP | 4:15 3D 4:35 VIP | 6:30 7:50 3D VIP | 8:15 3D | 9:30 VIP (SUN) 3:50 3D | 3:50 3D VIP | 4:35 VIP | 4:40 | 7:20 | 7:50 3D VIP 8:00 3D | 9:30 VIP (TUES) 12:35 VIP | 2:05 | 3:00 3D VIP | 4:15 3D | 4:35 VIP | 6:30 8:15 3D | 9:30 VIP | 9:35 3D VIP BED REST (R) (FRI, SAT, MON-THURS) 4:05 | 10:30 BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER (PG-13) (FRI, SAT, MON-THURS) 12:30 | 9:35 (SUN) 3:30 CIRKUS (PG) (FRI, SAT, MON-THURS) 6:25 (SUN) 8:40 I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY (PG-13) (FRI, SAT, MON-THURS) 12:15 VIP | 1:00 | 6:15 VIP | 6:30 8:35 VIP | 9:45 (SUN) 6:15 VIP | 6:30 | 8:35 VIP | 9:45 PUSS IN BOOTS: THE LAST WISH (PG) (FRI, SAT, MON, WED & THURS) 1:05 VIP | 1:30 | 3:35 VIP | 4:00 (SUN) 3:20 VIP | 4:00 (TUES) 12:25 VIP | 1:30 | 3:35 VIP | 4:00 WHAT’S PLAYING THIS WEEK KIDS CLUB THE POLAR EXPRESS SATURDAY 10AM VIP AVAILABLE (PG) KIDS CLUB FROZEN SATURDAY 10AM VIP AVAILABLE (PG) THE TERMINATOR (1984) TUESDAY 7PM VIP (R) CLASSICS PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY: Cayman Compass Ltd. Compass Centre, Shedden Road, George Town, Cayman Islands SEND US YOUR VIEWS OR NEWS: P.O. Box 1365 Grand Cayman, KY1-1108 Cayman Islands Telephone: (345) 815-0095 Email: newsdesk@compassmedia.ky ADVERTISE WITH US: T: (345) 949-5111 E: sales@compassmedia.ky W: caymancompass.com NEWS EDITOR CAROLINE JAMES BUSINESS EDITOR MICHAEL KLEIN ISSUES EDITOR JAMES WHITTAKER HEAD OF SALES CHERYL BIRCH-GILLIES weather Friday Forecast FORECAST Partly cloudy skies with a 30% chance of showers. SEA STATE Rough with a wave height of 5 to 7 feet. A small craft warning is in effect. WINDS East to northeast at 20 to 25 knots. 88°F HIGH 77°F LOW FIND US ONLINE Caymancompass.com Facebook.com/Caycompass cayman_compass@cayCompassCayman Compass news in brief Passengers flying internationally on Cayman Airways will be charged US$25 a bag from February. - Photo: File Health Services Authority staff wearing clear face masks. - Photo: Submitted To avoid trees being sent to the landfill, the Department of Environmental Health is again offering its annual mulching programme. - Photo: File cayman compass 2 N news FRIDAY, 30 DECEMBER 2022cayman compass 3 FRIDAY, 30 DECEMBER 20221234567 89 101112 13 1415 16 171819 20 212223 2425 1234567 89 101112 13 1415 16 171819 20 212223 2425 ACROSS 1 Defensive wall (7) 5 Underlying principle (5) 8 Torn in many places (2,7) 9 Section of relay race (3) 10 Sympathetic (4) 12 Tower over (8) 14 Social outcast (6) 15 Search about (6) 17 Renegade (8) 18 Responsibility (4) 21 A deciduous tree (3) 22 Not currently in love (5-4) 24 Undivided (5) 25 Resumption (7) DOWN 1 Perfect joy (5) 2 Item in auction sale (3) 3 Prefix for against (4) 4 Animals’ attendant in zoo (6) 5 Infatuated (8) 6 Persevere doggedly (7,2) 7 Hint at (7) 11 On the contrary (3,4,2) 13 Whimsical (8) 14 Forbearing (7) 16 Gather into storage (6) 19 Expand (5) 20 Song of praise (4) 23 Chilly and damp (3) The Compass Crossword Puzzle The Compass universal kakuro Puzzle 17201 The numbers in the black cells are clues. Numbers above the slash are across clues. Number below the slash are down clues. The goal is to enter digits 1 - 9 in the white cells to add up to the number clues. You cannot enter any digit more than once when adding up to clue. TODAY'S SOLUTIONS Puzzle 17201 ACROSS: 1 Bulwark, 5 Basis, 8 In tatters, 9 Leg, 10 Soft, 12 Bestride, 14 Pariah, 15 Ferret, 17 Turncoat, 18 Onus, 21 Elm, 22 Fancy-free, 24 Total, 25 Renewal. DOWN: 1 Bliss, 2 Lot, 3 Anti, 4 Keeper, 5 Besotted, 6 Soldier on, 7 Suggest, 11 Far from it, 13 Fanciful, 14 Patient, 16 Garner, 19 Swell, 20 Hymn, 23 Raw. OPINION: Why we should all be so proud of Jordan Crooks He has worked hard to earn his place on the international stage. Well done, Jordan. Sharon Davies I get goosebumps every time I think about this GREAT accomplishment! There are more great things up ahead for this young man! Well proud of our Jordan Crooks world champion! Shirley Roulstone We are grateful to all for [the] support and love. With unity, support and love we will live to see many more young Caymanians breaking barriers. Keep writing about them, keep acknowledging them, and keep believing in them. Faith Crooks Hopefully, the government will help the Lions build a bigger pool as we so need it. Big congratulations to both of them. Athena Sara Robinson I believe if we would invest $25 million in sports over the next three years, we would reap the benefits of encouraging more Caymanians to become professional athletes. Each district should have a 25-metre public swimming pool, and tennis courts to reach the lower economic level of our population. Sports should help create opportunities while breaking down barriers. Jordan, you’ve made us all proud; and to your parents, coaches and friends, thanks for your dedication and support. Kennedy Powery I agree 100% with the pride you have for this athlete. It was an incredible swim under what must have been unbelievable pressure for Jordan. This effort did not come without years of hard work. The good news is that Jordan is relatively young and has the potential to break this record and set new ones in future meets. Greglocher23 L. We are all immensely proud of this historic achievement! Lori-Ann Harvey Foley He is a world champion and deserves that honour. He is our first and will go down in our history books! Rina Ebanks We should do all we can to celebrate our youth! They need to see that anything is possible with hard work and a good support network. I wish continued success to Jordan! We have to support our youth and help them navigate this emotional rollercoaster called life. Heidi Kristina Lawrence Of course, the work of our athlete has been hard, and it is the beginning for many more in other sports disciplines. Cayman is a wonderful place, with wonderful people who can achieve many things. Andres Giovanni Ramos Rodriguez Mistaken parking ticket arrest sparks ‘invisible illness’ campaign Most likely brought about by some idle person taking unauthorised pictures of cars parked on ‘blue spots’ without one rass idea of whether the person is truly disabled or not! Would be good to know the facts. George Ebanks Persons like her are more liable to be arrested than those who drive at night with either no lights on or with lights which are blinding to vehicles coming in the opposite direction. Alan Mark Foster This is so disgusting. Valda Hilton Taylor Although this article correctly speaks to the sensitivity of people to victims of MS, it also points to the incompetence of the Cayman police department in not being able to cite the time and place the ticket was issued, yet still going ahead with the fingerprinting, taking a mugshot and booking her. Paul L. I hope she seeks legal advice, and does not stop [due to] any legal representation trying to discourage her from doing so. Cayman is fast becoming too lax with violating civilian and general public rights and nothing is done. Reaching this stage to advocate for disability parking has taken the islands decades, yet it is working against the disabled. She has rights. There are rights protecting persons in such incidents. It is time to begin exercising these. And in [these instances] law enforcement should be held accountable, by way of the facts of the case. Reading this article alone creates a very vivid visual of how traumatising this experience has been for this lady. She could have been a mother, or close relative of any of us. Patricia Bryan Disgusting! Not every disabled person needs wheelchair or visual physical assistance! Vewihael Badieba I’m actually embarrassed for you all. Too many of these silly stories coming out about Cayman. Sort out the police. Rebecca De Stanleigh Rare bird death sparks concern over clash between cars and wildlife How sad. [It] would have had a better chance in captivity, unfortunately. Holly Capon Weingart Constant death on the Islands’ roads of any and all wildlife. Animals don’t stand a chance. Clare Marshall Yet another example of human destruction! Andrew Veganic Back from the brink: Christmas miracle as brother gives gift of life What an amazing story for Christmas. Despite what one sees in movies it’s very rare that CPR is successful. In fact, a friend of ours died after a heart attack even though they were actually in a hospital at the time. Norman L. Wonderful news! Terri Ebanks-Forbes Police call for parental supervision during outings at Camana Bay I keep wondering why these parents just drop their children off to roam about in the night. We are in a real mess on this Island in more ways than one. Elaine Patti Parents trying to get rid of them and don’t care what they do. Carlin Markman Twinkle, twinkle Christmas stars Spectacular display. Pure and authentic display of joy. Have appreciated being there during holiday celebrations. Robert Harrold The Christmas decorations are something to see! Carol Mclagan We are so starved for stimuli we will literally come out for anything. Just sayin’. Kyle Creel I’ve always loved the yard across from Sunset House and Smith Cove. Joann R Burrows-Wood What they’re saying Online cayman compass 4 news N news FRIDAY, 30 DECEMBER 2022JAMES WHITTAKER jwhittaker@compassmedia.ky When Arick Williams says he is his brother’s keeper, he means it literally. The two men were out hunting iguanas on a Sunday in November, when 40-year-old Aron felt a pain in his chest and blacked out. When he awoke, it was 10 days later. He was in a hospital bed at Health City Cayman Islands being told he had just come through open-heart surgery. “I don’t remember nothing much about it. I felt bad, so I was taking a little break and then everything went black,” he said. “The next thing I know I am in hospital hooked up to some tubes and they are telling me I have been asleep for 10 days.” Now he is fully recovered from the life-saving surgery and resting up at home with his family for Christmas. It was a close call and he gives thanks to God for his survival, but also to his younger brother. Arick, 33, picks up the story from where his brother was resting up in the car while he pursued an iguana. He was looking around for his prey, when he noticed Aron was suffering. “I saw him shaking, like he was having a seizure. I was calling his name, tapping his face to see if he could pull through.” Arick called 911 as he drove towards Cayman Islands Hospital in George Town. He knew the signs from a previous incident his brother had experienced in August. “My brother has had a heart attack,” he said. By now, it was clear that Aron wasn’t breathing. Following the guidance of the call operator, Arick pulled over and started giving CPR to his brother by the side of the road in Savannah. The two men had done a course together only a few years earlier and he knew what to do. He could feel Aron’s breath starting to come through. Some passersby helped out, taking over the CPR, while he gave mouth-to-mouth. By the time the ambulance arrived, Aron was showing signs of recovery. “He was actually starting to come through. He was breathing a little bit by himself,” Arick said. The EMTs shocked him with a defibrillator en route to Health City, where he was rushed into surgery. Doctors say Arick’s quick action helped save his brother’s life. “I tell people, I am my brother’s keeper,” Arick said. “We are very close. I just sort of reacted and did what had to be done.” Aron said he is grateful he had his brother with him. “It was a good thing that he was there and that we did that seminar on CPR so he knew what to do.” He said he is feeling better and trying to eat healthier as he recovers from the heart surgery. Dr. Binoy Chattuparambil, chief cardiac surgeon at Health City, said the cooperation between the 911 services, emergency medical technicians, the Health Services Authority and Health City, as well as the swift action of Arick, had helped save Aron’s life. He said the patient had come through a complex surgery after suffering a severe cardiac arrest. “A couple of times he told me the same thing: This is the best Christmas gift he could wish for,” said Binoy in a video testimonial produced by the hospital. Back from the brink Christmas miracle as brother gives gift of life “I am my brother’s keeper. We are very close. I just sort of reacted and did what had to be done.” Arick Williams Aron and Arick Williams. - Photo: Supplied ANDREL HARRIS aharris@compassmedia.ky Since the start of December, 30 people have been arrested for DUI offences – with one driver having returned a reading of more than five times the new drink-driving limit. “There were 29 arrests for the offence of driving under the influence of alcohol along with one arrest for being in charge of a vehicle whilst under the influence of alcohol,” said a media officer for the police. “Of these arrests, one was under .100 on the roadside breath test but was released from custody following the evidential test which read below .070.” The arrests were made during the RCIPS’s annual road safety campaign, Operation Winter Guardian, which began on 1 Dec. and runs through to the new year. According to police, the highest reading recorded for the month so far was .374 – with eight others having provided readings of over .210. Under the amendment to the Traffic Act, which came into force in October, the blood-alcohol limit for drivers is now 70 milligrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood, or 0.07, bringing it closer to the worldwide average of 0.06%. The arrests for DUI are part of a number of recent arrests made by police in an attempt to stamp out a spike in violent crimes. Since the start of 2022, police have received reports of 47 armed robberies, the most for such crimes in a decade and the third-most active year in recorded history. “We can say that, so far this month, there have been over 150 arrests made, of which there were [five] robbery arrests, four firearms related arrests, two wounding arrests, two burglary arrests, 16 drugs-related arrests and six theft- related arrests,” said police. “So far, five arrests for robberies have been made,” the RCIPS spokesperson said. “Four of the arrests are from the group of robbers discussed at the [recent press] conference and the other was in relation to the Cayman Brac robbery incident.” Police say all five men arrested in relation to the robberies have since been released on bail. The RCIPS says it has met the increase in crime with a full-scale response, and that there were no armed robberies reported during the Christmas weekend. “Our investigators have been working diligently on these robbery investigations and all our officers have been doing their part, through Operation Winter Guardian and other operational strategies, to provide high visibility patrols, increase the presence of firearm officers in the various districts, and execute search warrants that have led to arrest for robberies and various other crimes,” said police in their statement. Police added, “We encourage the public to report incidents and follow through with providing statements so that we can persist in these efforts and provide justice for the community, but especially those who were directly affected.” The government and Cayman Crime Stoppers are offering a $100,000 reward for information that leads to a successful prosecution in relation to the robberies. Anyone with information on the recent crime spree is urged to contacting the RCIPS using its online ‘submit a tip’ form, which can be done anonymously; or by calling the RCIPS confidential tipline at 949-7777 where callers can leave an anonymous voicemail. People can also submit tips to Cayman Crime Stoppers at caymancrimestoppers.com and it will be shared with the RCIPS without identifying the source. Police arrested 30 people for DUI during the festive season. - Photo: File Operation Winter Guardian nets 150 arrests The highest breathalyser reading during the road- safety campaign, more than five times the legal limit. “There were 29 arrests for the offence of driving under the influence of alcohol along with one arrest for being in charge of a vehicle whilst under the influence of alcohol.” RCIPS .374 cayman compass 5 news N news FRIDAY, 30 DECEMBER 2022JAMES WHITTAKER jwhittaker@compassmedia.ky Advocates are pushing for greater awareness of ‘invisible disabilities’ after a 50-year-old with multiple sclerosis was arrested and fined after being mistakenly issued a ticket for parking in a disabled spot. The woman, who spoke to the Compass on condition of anonymity, said she had no knowledge of the ticket until police called her at work to tell her she had missed a court date and a judge had issued a warrant for her arrest. “I said, ‘Is this a prank call?’ and the officer replied ‘No, ma’am, this is very real’,” she said. She went to the Cayman Islands Detention Centre where she was fingerprinted and her mugshot taken. She was told a parking ticket had been issued and she had failed to turn up to Traffic Court. She says she had no knowledge of any ticket and the officers were unable to clarify when or where the alleged violation had occurred. She was given a new court date and told the judge would explain on the day. The woman, who has suffered with MS for several years and has an up-to-date disabled decal prominently displayed in her vehicle, said she was shaken by the experience. She agreed to pay the $100 parking fine on the spot. The MS Foundation of the Cayman Islands helped fund a lawyer for her court appearance. Alyssa Christian, founder of the organisation, said she was concerned about a general lack of understanding and empathy around the condition in the community. MS can manifest in different ways and sufferers can appear fine one minute and be in severe pain the next. While the reason for the ticket being issued in this case is not clear, Christian said she was aware of numerous incidences of people with MS having their disability marginalised or overlooked because it is not always ‘visible’. She has reached out to police, human resources departments at major firms and others to help educate them about ‘invisible diseases’. Case dismissed In this case, the parking ticket was dismissed along with the charge for failure to show up to court. The arrested woman told the Compass, “The judge was very apologetic and so was the prosecutor. The case was dismissed and I was told the fine would be reimbursed.” Still, no one was able to tell her where and when the initial parking ticket was issued. It wasn’t until she filed a freedom of information request with the police that someone responded with the details. It transpired she had been ticketed outside her work place. “I was legally parked in a disabled spot and I did not receive a physical ticket, nor was anything placed on my car. “I am a law-abiding citizen and have never had any prior dealings with the law. The stress and trauma of the whole experience has caused depression and the resurfacing of past symptoms.” Arrest record concerns Now she is concerned that details of the arrest, for failing to show up for a court date she knew nothing about, could remain on her record. She filled out an application for a ‘Global Entry’ trusted traveller programme recently and had to tick ‘yes’ and give details to a question that asked if she had ever been arrested. The application is pending. The US organisation ‘Ban the Box’ has campaigned against these type of questions being included on such forms. But it remains possible for employers, landlords and others to ask. It is not exactly clear what records police would provide in those circumstances or if US authorities would necessarily be aware of a Cayman arrest. Lawyer Richard Barton, who represented the woman at court, said his understanding was that arrests did remain on record. Regardless of the practical reality, he said law-abiding citizens would always answer honestly on any official form, especially a visa or passport application, potentially hampering their chances of success. He said, “There needs to be a transparent process to have these arrests expunged from the record. At the moment, you can spend time in jail for a serious offence and eventually have that removed from your record but there is not a similar process for arrests, no matter how trivial or unproven the alleged offence may be.” A police spokesperson said only criminal convictions would appear on a person’s official criminal record and the police could not speak to why questions about arrests might appear on an official passport form. The woman, arrested over the mistaken parking ticket, is also anxious for police and the public in general to have a better understanding of disabilities. Campaign for greater awareness She said the MS Foundation had offered to help educate police officers about ‘invisible disabilities’ like MS. Because the illness manifests differently, while one person may need a wheelchair, another may be able to walk without visible symptoms. She said she suffers from nerve pain and feels as if she has been incorrectly judged because she has less outward signs of disability. “There needs to be more education out there about invisible illnesses. I want to advocate for people in a similar position. You shouldn’t judge people on outward appearances. No one knows what another person is going through.” Christian, of the MS Foundation, said she had reached out to police and others about sensitivity and awareness training. She said the police leadership had been receptive to the concept. But she believes wider education is needed. Others can face challenges because the condition can cause relapsing/remitting, meaning sufferers can be fine one minute and in severe pain the next. She said other members of the group had reported being challenged by security guards while parking in a disabled spot, despite their clearly-displayed decal. “This is not the first time it has happened and there seems to be a lack of understanding, a lack of knowledge and a lack of empathy,” she said. “If somebody has gone through all the due- diligence with their medical professional and the licensing board and they have got a placard, why should anybody else question that?” Others have reported challenges at work, with human resources departments sometimes lacking an understanding of the condition. “You can be fine one minute and in pain the next and I think we do need to do some work with HR departments to help them understand that.” In mid-December, the National Council for Persons with Disabilities and the government launched the ‘Save my spot, nah!’ campaign to help the community better understand who can and can’t use the blue parking spots designated for people with disabilities. Part of the campaign involves highlighting the prevalence in Cayman of people with ‘invisible’ disabilities. The council noted that disabilities are defined as any physical, mental, or neurological condition that may affect an individual’s movements or senses, regardless of outward appearances. “For example,” it said in a press release announcing the campaign, “someone may legally have a disability parking permit or licence plate without having a visible mobility assistance device, like a wheelchair, scooter, or cane. Invisible conditions, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, heart conditions, asthma, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, etc., may qualify someone to park in a blue spot. “Therefore, the public is encouraged not to judge appearances or make assumptions about people they see using accessible parking – but do be alert to vehicles that park in these spots without the approved permits or licence plates.” Parking ticket arrest sparks ‘invisible illness’ campaign The blue spot is reserved for people who are registered as disabled. “This is not the first time it has happened and there seems to be a lack of understanding, a lack of knowledge and a lack of empathy.” Alyssa Christian, MS Foundation of the Cayman Islands cayman compass 6 news N news FRIDAY, 30 DECEMBER 2022NORMA CONNOLLY nconnolly@compassmedia.ky The death of Queen Elizabeth II on 8 Sept., which brought to an end the seven-decade reign of Britain’s longest-serving monarch, was mourned in Cayman and throughout the world. Although she was 96 years old, her passing came as a shock to many, as she had not appeared to be in ill health, though she had cut back on a number of her public duties in recent years. Her last official engagement had been carried out just two days earlier, at her home in Balmoral, Scotland, when she met with the incoming prime minister Liz Truss to ask her to form a new government. The first inkling the public had that she was seriously unwell was a statement issued by Buckingham Palace around noon, British time, on the day of her death, saying doctors were concerned about the monarch’s health and had placed her under medical supervision. The seriousness of her condition became apparent as the media reported that senior members of the royal family were rushing to be with her. At 6:30pm UK time – 1:30pm Cayman time – the palace announced, “The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon.” Shortly after, Charles, who immediately became king upon the death of his mother, said in a statement, “The death of my beloved mother, Her Majesty the Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family. We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished Sovereign and a much- loved mother.” Her death certificate, released later in September, listed her cause of death as old age. In 2015, the queen had passed the milestone held by Queen Victoria and became the longest- serving British ruler in history. This year marked her Platinum Jubilee – 70 years on the throne – which was a cause for celebration in the UK and the Overseas Territories. During her reign, Queen Elizabeth II visited the Cayman Islands on two occasions, in 1983 and 1994, greeted both times by large crowds who were delighted to get a glimpse of the queen or, for a few, shake her hand and have a brief chat. Even before her death was announced, crowds of people had already begun arriving outside Buckingham Palace in London. Eventually, thousands of flowers, and many Paddington Bears – a nod to the queen’s appearance with the cute teddy bear in a Platinum Jubilee broadcast – were left at the gates of the palace. Here in Cayman, flowers were left at the gates of the residence of Governor Martyn Roper – the queen’s representative – and on the steps of the Government Administration Building, in memory of the late monarch. Cayman, like the UK and its Overseas Territories, entered a 10-day mourning period. Flags were flown at half-mast and condolence books were available for signing until the day of her funeral on 19 Sept., which was declared a public holiday. The day after her passing, scores of government officials and dignitaries gathered at Government House for a 96-gun salute to honour the late queen. The queen lay in state in Westminster Hall for four days before her funeral. A quarter of a million people are estimated to have viewed her coffin and paid their respects. The waiting time for public mourners at one point reached 25 hours. Premier Wayne Panton and Roper flew to London to attend the viewing and the state funeral. The queen’s funeral drew world leaders, celebrities and friends, who were among the 2,000 people in attendance. According to some reports, up to 4 billion people watched the funeral on television. Queen Elizabeth II meets members of the public outside the Legislative Assembly during her 1983 visit. – Photo: Cayman Compass archives Queen Elizabeth II passes away Queen Elizabeth II. - Photo: The Royal Family cayman compass 7 news N news FRIDAY, 30 DECEMBER 2022Welcome to the newly established Cayman Surgical Group. We are proud to announce that Cayman Surgical Group (CSG) offers a full spectrum of surgical and medical services for residents and visitors in the Cayman Islands. CSG has evolved from its strong foundations with Cayman Orthopaedic Group (COG) dating back 30 years. Our expanding partnerships with board-certified, fellowship- trained physicians and nurses offer a wide variety of high- quality, specialty care, including orthopaedics, urology, medical aesthetics, and more. Our team of doctors and staff are committed to providing clinical excellence and compassionate care that always puts our patients’ best interests first. Want to maintain an active, healthy, and vibrant lifestyle? Call Cayman Surgical Group today at 345-945-8380. @caymansurgicalgroup @caymansurgicalgroup @caymansurgicalgroup @CSGcayman Cayman Surgical Group Cayman Surgical Group To learn more, visit us at: CSG Announcing CSG Ad-04.indd 1CSG Announcing CSG Ad-04.indd 12022-12-23 17:39 PM2022-12-23 17:39 PM The Cayman Surgical Group is now pleased to offer specialised care for the full range of urological conditions. Our team of urologists tailor your care plan to your specific health needs while working to preserve your urinary and sexual function. Treatments may include preventative measures, medical therapies, minimally invasive procedures, surgery, and support for the emotional challenges of urological disorders. Total urology care, all in one place. Services include Cancer screening & treatment Kidney Bladder Prostate Testicular Male sexual health Low libido Erectile dysfunction Low testosterone Kidney stones Fertility & contraception Urinary incontinence Urinary tract infection (UTI) and more Gain your quality of life back. Call Cayman Surgical Group at 345-945-8380 to book an appointment today. @caymansurgicalgroup @caymansurgicalgroup @caymansurgicalgroup @CSGcayman Cayman Surgical Group Cayman Surgical Group To learn more, visit us at: cayman compass 8 FRIDAY, 30 DECEMBER 2022Welcome to the newly established Cayman Surgical Group. We are proud to announce that Cayman Surgical Group (CSG) offers a full spectrum of surgical and medical services for residents and visitors in the Cayman Islands. CSG has evolved from its strong foundations with Cayman Orthopaedic Group (COG) dating back 30 years. Our expanding partnerships with board-certified, fellowship- trained physicians and nurses offer a wide variety of high- quality, specialty care, including orthopaedics, urology, medical aesthetics, and more. Our team of doctors and staff are committed to providing clinical excellence and compassionate care that always puts our patients’ best interests first. Want to maintain an active, healthy, and vibrant lifestyle? Call Cayman Surgical Group today at 345-945-8380. @caymansurgicalgroup @caymansurgicalgroup @caymansurgicalgroup @CSGcayman Cayman Surgical Group Cayman Surgical Group To learn more, visit us at: CSG Announcing CSG Ad-04.indd 1CSG Announcing CSG Ad-04.indd 12022-12-23 17:39 PM2022-12-23 17:39 PM The Cayman Surgical Group is now pleased to offer specialised care for the full range of urological conditions. Our team of urologists tailor your care plan to your specific health needs while working to preserve your urinary and sexual function. Treatments may include preventative measures, medical therapies, minimally invasive procedures, surgery, and support for the emotional challenges of urological disorders. Total urology care, all in one place. Services include Cancer screening & treatment Kidney Bladder Prostate Testicular Male sexual health Low libido Erectile dysfunction Low testosterone Kidney stones Fertility & contraception Urinary incontinence Urinary tract infection (UTI) and more Gain your quality of life back. Call Cayman Surgical Group at 345-945-8380 to book an appointment today. @caymansurgicalgroup @caymansurgicalgroup @caymansurgicalgroup @CSGcayman Cayman Surgical Group Cayman Surgical Group To learn more, visit us at: cayman compass 9 FRIDAY, 30 DECEMBER 2022Next >