© 2024 Burger King Company LLC© 2024 Burger K Jerk & Mango Habanero cayman compass Your most trusted news source Established 1965 Weekly, 17-23 May 2024 Cayman answers Honduran hospital's plea for aid Page 6 Royal Palms revival Page 8 Help wanted Looming recruitment crisis in key professions amid surging cost of living Pages 24-25 Disappearing scuba tank mystery Page 12 cayman compassC5 WEEKLY, 12 18 JANUARY 2024 RUM POINT BAR/GRILL AND RESTAURANT is seeking.. EVENTS MANAGER/ASST. F&B MANAGER Duties include but not limited to.. • Responsibleforplanning,managing,andexecutingon-propertyevents. • Oversightandmotivationof20+teammemberstoincludeallaspectsof effectivelyoperatingthebusiness • Budgeting,forecasting,andanalyticalreviewofallrelatedreports • Implementingandmaintainingcompanyservicestandardsandongoing training–leadbyexample • Coordinateandliaisewithclientstoensurecustomersatisfaction • Negotiatingquoteagreementswithvendors • Overseeallstaffassisting/workingtheevent • Assistingwiththecreativeprocessofevents. • Implementingeventconcepts • Evaluatingeventsuccessandwaystoimprove Requirements: • Minimum5years’experienceinahigh-volumerestaurantandbeachclub environment • 3yearspriorexperienceineventplanning/F&Bsupervisor. • Musthaveadegree/certificateinhospitalitymanagement/tourism. • Goodleadershipskills. • Mustbehighlyorganized. • Excellentcommunicationskills,bothwrittenandverbal • Musthavegreatinterpersonalskills • MustbecomputerliterateandproficientinMSOffice. • Knowledgeoffinancialsisrequiredtoreviewbudgetandprofit/loss. • KnowledgeofPOSisrequired Mustbeabletoworkflexiblehoursincludingholidaysandweekends. AnnualremunerationstartsatCI$55,000.00.CompetitiveInsuranceandPension packageoffered. Pleasesendresumesto:kallen@redsailcayman.comorhr@redsailcayman.com Pleasenoteonlythosechosenforaninterviewwillbecontacted. Blue Bison Software: Sales and Marketing Administrator Join the team at Paragon GRC Ltd, the exclusive reseller of Blue Bison Software, and jumpstart your career in Sales and Marketing! Key Role: • Supportsales&marketingfunctions. • Handlesalesdocumentation,CRMupdates,clientinfo. • Respondtoinboundinquiries. • Assistinmarketingcampaigns,managesocialmedia. • Coordinateevents,createmarketingmaterials. Requirements: • Highschooldiplomaorequivalent;Bachelor’spreferred. • Strongorganizational,communicationskills. • ProficientinMSOffice,socialmediasavvy. • CRMknowledgebeneficial. • Abletomultitaskinfast-pacedenvironment. Offering: • Traininginsalesadministration&CRM. • Careergrowthopportunities. • Salary:CI$15-20/hr+benefits. • Flexible,part-timeoptions. • Office-basedrole. Apply Now:Emailresume&coverlettertohr@bluebisonsoftware. comwith“SalesandMarketingAdministratorApplication”assubject The Public Works Department invites applications for the following position: ASSISTANT HR & DEVELOPMENT MANAGER SALARY: CI$51,060.00-$66,984.00 P/A The Assistant HR & Development Manager will assist the HR & Development Manager with the delivery of the comprehensive HR function including the recruitment of staff to the Public Works Department (PWD). Also, assist with devising a systematic approach to training and development for all employees at all levels. To provide timely and accurate monthly employee payroll entries to Treasury and assist with any related staff queries. Qualifications, Experience & Skills The post holder should possess a Bachelor’s Degree in HR Management or Business Administration with a minimum of five (5) years relevant experience OR an Associate’s Degree with a minimum of seven (7) years post-graduate experience in an HR or administration environment. He/she must be an HR Generalist with a thorough understanding of a wide variety of the HR function and an up-to-date working knowledge of modern principles and best practice in Human Resource Management. Also, a minimum of three (3) years supervisory experience Benefits will be determined in accordance with the Public Service Management Act and Regulations (2022 Revision), the Public Service Pensions Act (2021 Revision) and CINICO Health Plan. Preference will be given to suitably qualified and experienced Caymanians. To apply for this exciting opportunity and to access the detailed job description please access the below portal: https://careers.gov.ky APPLICATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 20th, 2024 GMC GENERAL CONTRACTORS CO. LTD. Applications are invited from suitably qualified and Experienced Caymanians to fill the following post: Mason, Mason Assistant The successful applicant will be employed at a Technician Level and will form part of a workforce responsible for the Erection and Installation of wide variety of differing projects in building & construction and maintenance of varied Heavy Industrial Based Systems. Salary/Wages $12 - $14 per hour with Health & Pension Benefits Appliance Technician The successful applicant will be employed at a Technician Level and will form part of a workforce responsible for the Erection and Installation and assistance with commissioning operation and maintenance of varied Heavy Industrial Based Systems. The Appliance Technician will be responsible to Commission and Maintain varied Heavy Industrial Plant & Equipment, Repairs of all Tools and Appliances for HDPE Pipe Systems and a suitable trade Certificate along with seven years’ experience as a Mechanic. Salary/Wages $12 - $14 per hour with Health & Pension Benefits Apply To: The Recruitment Manager GMC General Contractors Co Ltd., PO Box 3074, Grand Cayman, KY1-1203 The Health Services Authority (HSA) is responsible for the provision and administration of primary and secondary levels of healthcare services and public health functions for residents of the three Cayman Islands through a 127-bed hospital on Grand Cayman, a 18-bed hospital in Cay- man Brac, satellite outpatient clinic in Little Cayman and four District Health Centers on Grand Cayman offering the most comprehensive range of inpatient and outpatient services in a single health system in the Cayman Islands. We invite applications for the following position: TRANSITION TO PRACTICE – REGISTERED NURSE Salary range: CI$55,596 - CI$62,916 per annum The purpose of Transition to Practice (TTP) Registered Nurse is to develop novice nurses (licensed RN with less than 2-year experience as practicing RN) into competent professional clinical nurses. The TTP-RN position enables the newly graduated RN to apply and develop newly acquired knowledge and skills in a safe environment for various patient care situations under the supervision of preceptors. Primary Responsibilities: The successful candidate will work as scheduled on assigned units with a designated preceptor(s), is individually accountable for clinical knowledge, further education, and working within the scope of practice determined by their experience and skills. Seeks to develop their attributes and professional values as registered nurse and reflects on, and identifies opportunities for, professional growth. Actively participates in meeting the learning objectives and associated activities of the Transition to Practice Program to support their individual transition to the workplace. In addition, with guidance and support, develops strategies to build resilience and wellbeing in maintaining a lifelong framework for work-life balance. Seeks and utilizes feedback from nursing colleagues to recognize strengths in practice and identify further areas for ongoing development. Qualifications and Experience: The successful candidate must be a Caymanian with a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, current licensure with a Nursing Board/Council, and current AHA Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Be a graduate of an approved school of Nursing within eighteen months, have demonstrated proficiency in the use of written and spoken language, be proficient in the use of Windows applications, regularly review policies and procedures in the service, ensuring current knowledge and practice. Exhibit a caring and compassionate attitude transcending diversity of religion, race, culture, sexual orientation, and diagnosis. COMMUNITY HEALTH NURSE Salary range: CI$71,640 – CI$96,336 per annum Additional Nursing Allowance: CI$9,448 – CI$12,379 per annum The Community Health Nurse (CHN) is coordinating, supervising, and implementing programs within the community to support population health and deliver preventive health care services. This also includes disease prevention through health promotion activities and immunization. Primary Responsibilities: The successful candidate assesses the health needs of assigned health districts and plans programs to meet the needs of the community, family, and individuals. This includes conducting disease surveillance & disease investigations, participating in multisectoral activities within the community and school health services programs. Also conducts immunization clinics for all ages, physical & psychosocial assessment of children, identifying deviations and institute appropriate nursing interventions e.g., referrals and providing clinical management to women requiring post-natal care including home visits. Postholder maintains accurate and current records for each child and adult who attends clinics. Establishes and maintains linkages with secondary and tertiary care facilities and other agencies for continuity of patient/ client care e.g. Early Childhood Intervention. Provides advice on development and/or updates policies and procedures relating to public health programs. Qualifications and Experience: The successful candidate must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and specialized training in Public Health Nursing & Immunisation and management skills. Must have a minimum of three (3) years’ experience as a qualified Community Health/Public Health nurse. A thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of public health, administrative, leadership, and good communication skills is required. Must exhibit a caring and compassionate attitude transcending religion, race, and culture. Candidates must be registered in either of the following jurisdictions to be eligible to practice in the Cayman Islands; Jamaica, USA, UK, Canada, South Africa, New Zealand and/ or Australia. The successful candidates must demonstrate the ability to work in a multi-cultural environment and possess good communication and interpersonal skills. A remuneration and benefits package, commensurate with experience and qualifications will be offered to the successful candidate. NOTE: Incomplete applications will not be considered. All applicants must complete and submit an HSA Application Form via e-mail to hsa.jobs@hsa.ky using pdf format. Log on to our website at www.hsa.ky to access the Application Form and Job Description. Deadline for the post: January 21st, 2024 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. KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES (PG-13) (FRI, WED-THURS) 3:30 VIP | 3:45 | 6:45 VIP | 7:00 | 9:30 (SAT) 12:15 VIP | 12:30 | 3:30 VIP | 3:45 | 6:45 VIP | 9:30 (SUN) 3:30 VIP | 3:45 | 6:45 VIP | 7:00 | 9:05 VIP | 9:30 (MON) 12:30 | 1:00 VIP | 3:30 VIP | 3:45 | 6:45 VIP | 7:00 | 9:30 (TUES) 3:30 VIP | 3:45 | 7:00 | 9:30 TAROT (PG-13) (FRI, MON-WED) 4:30 | 10:00 VIP | 10:15 (SAT) 4:30 | 10:00 VIP (SUN) 4:30 | 7:15 | 10:00 VIP | 10:15 (THURS) 10:00 VIP | 10:15 THE FALL GUY (PG-13) (FRI, TUES-THURS) 4:15 VIP | 4:30 | 6:50 | 9:25 VIP | 9:45 (SAT, MON) 1:15 | 4:15 VIP | 4:30 | 6:50 | 9:25 VIP | 9:45 (SUN) 4:00 VIP | 4:30 | 6:45 VIP | 6:50 | 9:30 VIP | 9:45 THE STRANGERS: CHAPTER 1 (R) (FRI, WED-THURS) 7:00 VIP | 7:25 | 9:10 VIP | 10:00 (SAT) 1:50 VIP | 2:10 | 7:00 VIP | 7:25 | 9:15 VIP | 10:00 (MON) 1:10 VIP | 7:00 VIP | 7:25 | 9:10 VIP | 10:00 (TUES) 7:00 VIP | 7:25 | 10:00 WHAT’S PLAYING THIS WEEK IF (PG) (FRI, WED-THURS) 3:45 VIP | 4:00 | 6:30 VIP | 7:00 (SAT) 1:30 VIP | 1:45 | 4:05 VIP | 4:25 | 6:40 VIP | 7:00 (SUN) 3:45 VIP | 4:00 | 6:30 VIP | 7:00 | 9:30 (MON) 12:45 VIP | 2:00 | 3:45 VIP | 4:00 | 6:30 VIP | 7:00 (TUES) 3:45 VIP | 4:00 | 7:00 | 7:25 VIP NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: THE MOTIVE AND THE CUE (PG-13) (SAT) 8:00 CLASSICS HARRY POTTER & THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS TUESDAY 7PM VIP (PG) KIDS CLUB HARRY POTTER & CHAMBER OF SECRETS SATURDAY 10AM VIP AVAILABLE (PG) KIDS CLUB HARRY POTTER & THE SORCERER’S STONE SATURDAY 10AM VIP AVAILABLE (PG) FIND US ONLINE Caymancompass.com Facebook.com/Caycompass cayman_compass@cayCompassCayman Compass 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 weather Friday Forecast FORECAST Partly cloudy chance of isolated showers SEA STATE Moderate with a wave height of 3 to 5 feet. WINDS Southeast at 10 to 15 knots. 90°F HIGH 78°F LOW NEWS EDITOR CAROLINE JAMES ISSUES EDITOR JAMES WHITTAKER HEAD OF SALES CHERYL BIRCHGILLIES news in brief From left, Garth Arch, CAYS Foundation chair; Paulinda Mendoza-Williams of the Department of Children and Family Services; Governor Jane Owen; Acting Premier André Ebanks; and Mehr Petkovsek, Trevor Gibbs and Rayle Roberts of the Ministry of Social Development at the unveiling of the remodelled Bonaventure Children’s Home. - Photo: GIS Fresh start for Bonaventure Children’s Home after renovation The newly remodelled Bonaventure Children’s Home has been unveiled in West Bay by private donors, volunteers and government offi cials. The multipurpose residential unit, accessible by wheelchair, will serve children in need of secure and nurturing care. The remodelled facility, operated by the CAYS Foundation, received $100,000 in seed funding last year from the Ministry of Social Development for the updates. Additional fi nancial assistance and volunteer support came from the private sector to complete the project. The CAYS Foundation provides trauma-informed, therapeutic care for up to 34 young people across three facilities, the Bonaventure and Frances Bodden children’s homes and Phoenix House. “The CAYS Foundation is eternally grateful to our community partners who have made this project a reality through their donations of time, expertise and materials,” said CAYS general manager Keith Boyle in a statement. Acting Premier André Ebanks said the upgraded facility is part of a long-term vision from the foundation to overcome current challenges and invest in social development. The foundation said it is now working towards upgrading its other facilities the Frances Bodden Children’s Home and Phoenix House. Three killed in early morning collision Three people were killed in a serious collision that occurred on Shamrock Road in the early morning hours of 13 May. Police are yet to release the names of the victims in the crash. Two other people were hospitalised. Five vehicles were involved, according to an update from the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service. Offi cers reported to the crash site, near Coral Bay Village, at about 12:15am and extinguished two vehicles that had caught fi re. An attending doctor at the hospital pronounced the three occupants of a black Honda Fit deceased. “These victims have not yet been identifi ed, and police are appealing for information that may assist with the identifi cation process,” the press release said. Emergency responders took two other people involved in the crash to the hospital, where they received treatment for “what appear to be non-life- threatening injuries”. Police did not specify which vehicle they were from but said a black Honda Accord and white Toyota Tundra were involved. The three deaths doubles the number of road fatalities seen so far this year, with two occurring in March. The Traffi c and Roads Policing Unit is investigating what happened, and police are urging witnesses to come forward. Man convicted of raping child he groomed on social media A 24-year-old man who posed as a child on social media to befriend and groom a 13-year-old girl before molesting, assaulting and raping her, has been convicted by a Grand Court jury. A court order prevents the Cayman Compass from releasing his identity. The man listened in silence on 13 May as the jury foreman returned unanimous guilty verdicts against him for charges of sexual communications with a child, meeting a child after sexual communications, indecent assault, gross indecency and rape. The man, originally from the UK, arrived in Cayman fi ve years ago. Shortly after, he began conversing with the child on Snapchat, a social media app that allows users to automatically delete their messages, photos and videos once they’ve been sent. During the trial, which lasted more than two weeks, the court heard that the defendant and the girl exchanged more than 2,000 messages. Some of these included nude images of both parties and videos of the defendant performing lewd acts on himself. From the trial’s inception, the defendant accepted that he had sexually explicit conversations with the child, claiming that he believed she was 17 years old and turning 18. He also accepted some degree of sexual contact, but claimed it was initiated by the complainant. He denied raping her. After deliberating for approximately 45 minutes, the jury returned unanimous guilty verdicts on all fi ve charges. Upon hearing the verdicts, the defendant sobbed silently with his head lowered, before being remanded into custody. A victim impact report has been ordered, and the preliminary sentencing hearing has been set for September. Chilean nationals charged following $78K ATM fraud Two Chilean nationals, allegedly involved with fi nancial crimes causing losses of about $78,000, were arrested while attempting to leave the Cayman Islands. Stefano Giusseppe Palomera,32, and Alejandra Marivi Ramirez, 27, both appeared in court on 15 May and were remanded into custody. The RCIPS formally charged the man with one count of theft and six counts of money laundering, and the woman with two counts of money laundering. According to an RCIPS press release, the charges stem from a report made on 16 April. Police received a report that a local bank had discovered four ATMS in various locations in George Town had been compromised. The release said someone copied and used multiple account details, with losses amounting to approximately $78,000. “The bank in question has identifi ed all apparent victims and the accounts have been re- secured,” the release said. “The ATMs have also been subjected to additional security measures.” Offi cers arrested the two on 9 May at Owen Roberts International Airport. cayman compass 2 N news WEEKLY, 17 23 MAY 2024cayman compass 3 WEEKLY, 17 23 MAY 20241234567 89 101112 13 1415 16 171819 20 212223 2425 1234567 89 101112 13 1415 16 171819 20 212223 2425 ACROSS 1 Chivalrous (7) 5 Come into the mind (5) 8 All things considered (2,7) 9 Thick heavy mat (3) 10 Kind of long upholstered seat (4) 12 Capital of Hungary (8) 14 Price-fixing consortium (6) 15 Room attached to a church (6) 17 Indecorous (8) 18 An unfounded notion (4) 21 Only a handful (3) 22 Without precedent (7-2) 24 Tend in illness (5) 25 Pay no heed to orders (7) DOWN 1 A dozen dozen (5) 2 Hit ball in high arc (3) 3 Competent (4) 4 Language (6) 5 Daunted (8) 6 At present (9) 7 With justification (7) 11 Destructive capacity of guns (9) 13 Firm of purpose (8) 14 Light diaphanous fabric (7) 16 Orderly arrangement (6) 19 Big and strong (5) 20 A raised floor (4) 23 To nickname (3) The Compass Crossword Puzzle The Compass universal kakuro Puzzle 17633 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 17633 ACROSS: 1 Gallant, 5 Occur, 8 On balance, 9 Rug, 10 Sofa, 12 Budapest, 14 Cartel, 15 Vestry, 17 Improper, 18 Myth, 21 Few, 22 Unheard-of, 24 Nurse, 25 Disobey. DOWN: 1 Gross, 2 Lob, 3 Able, 4 Tongue, 5 Overawed, 6 Currently, 7 Rightly, 11 Firepower, 13 Resolute, 14 Chiffon, 16 Method, 19 Hefty, 20 Dais, 23 Dub. What they’re saying Online Former Calico’s owner back in the beach bar business at Royal Palms Let’s get back some culture on the beach front with some live Cayman local bands like the good old Royal Palm days. The tourists come here to listen to calypso and soca and experience some good Cayman culture. Duke Wayne Tibbetts This is amazing news for the island, so absolutely heartbreaking to see the Royal Palms Beach Club sitting empty and unused when most of us have had amazing memories there. Can’t wait to support this business. Tana Kelly Awesome news! Give this guy two medals. One for saving Seven Mile. And one for that moustache. Tom Cunningham The one thing Grand Cayman is lacking is beach bars. This initiative is so welcome. Good luck and thank you. Robin Gandy Our island is lacking in nightlife and beach bars for tourists, and they are attracted to other areas like Aruba and Miami for their winter holidays. Bring back the nightlife! Nikki Thomas What great news. Although I left Cayman five years ago for Hong Kong, I will always remember Calico’s with fond memories. Marty and the rest of the staff were magnificent, the mudslides were the best and we always had fun with the JD Honey shots. Chats with Handel always interesting. Good Luck! Duncan H. Public asked to guide national healthcare policy The insurance companies can’t have their cake and eat it too. They kick out our fellow Caymanians (and expats) once they reach the age of 70. After, the only option is CINICO. The renewal of their licences should be contingent on accepting Caymanians past age 70. How dare they! Steven Sokohl Unpopular Barbados flights cancelled after just six months Now they can add the 7:30am flight to Miami and the 9:30pm Miami to Cayman flight so we don’t have to do overnight hotel stays or we can do our day shopping trips again! Linda Toniutti-Caselle Gee who could have predicted this? Answer: everyone. CAL says they did not lose money but they lost the opportunity to fly passengers to and from Cayman, which is why this heavily subsidised airline exists. It’s simple: listen to passengers and go back to morning flights to Miami and evening flights back again, and fill every seat. Jeff Boucher Just amazing that this could even happen with the amount of money this airline loses annually. Do they not have anyone qualified to do appropriate market research before starting these new routes which are extremely costly just to set up and initiate. Very shoddy. Sheridan Robinson Maybe flights to Montego Bay, Mexico, Bahamas, Canada. Perhaps another South or Central American country that is proven to have a lot of travellers for tourism or returning home for visits, just like Honduras and Panama, Dominican Republic, and a few more US states, would be good. Cayman Airways should take a poll of the locations people would travel to more frequently, and consider them. Cathrine Welds Ummm... and we didn’t see that coming! Dear politicians, please use common sense (not a common commodity I appreciate). This flight was doomed to failure before it began and most ordinary folk could see this. Put your egos aside and use your brains please! Early morning flight to Miami so we can get medical appointments done in a day. Yes, that was a popular one! Give the people what they want. Stop these lunatic flights of fancy and give us useful routes. It doesn’t matter that the Barbados government ensured we didn’t lose money; running half empty flights is a waste for everyone! Joanna V. More than meets the eye. Of course this was a doomed decision. My Cayman parrot would have made a better decision like sticking to what works best for these islands (more Miami/Florida flights). Until these politicians stop beating their chests and wasting taxpayer money, our future looks really grim. Hugh J. $2.4M approved for new immigration detention centre All humans should be treated humanely. When will we get the Caymanians living in squalor in Northward and Fairbanks into humane living conditions, especially considering the repeated condemnation of the inspectorate? Kattina A. Public Health, HSA work toward ‘historic split’ I wonder who prepared the business case for this divorce. Inevitably it will provide for yet more chiefs in public service. Trusty2man D. What does this mean for CINICO folks? Please tell me this opens up other Cayman medical facilities? A girl can dream! melthomas519 Cayman brothers tie Guinness record for most siblings in rugby match Congrats, Westins! Well deserved! You have been faithful to the sport. With all the many injuries you bounced right back into it. Cayman gotta be proud of you! Margaret Awe Westin Power. Well done boys. Steve ‘Bluey’ Hannon Minimum Wage committee reviewing input on proposed increase Given the cost of living, the Cayman Islands consistently placing in the top three most expensive places in the world to live, $8.75 is too low. We need a minimum wage of at least $10. Nauticalone345 N. Legislated minimum wage is just another tax on everyone, including minimum wage recipients – a tax we do not want. And a tax that can conceivably start snowballing into reduced revenues for the whole island. It removes agency from both people and businesses, without which it may all begin to crumble, especially during these uncertain times. If this goes through and the prices react by going 10% up, there will be no one else to blame, but the voters who have let it stand. Alexander P. It’s a shame that’s all they could do. So expensive in Cayman. Barbara Campbell The minimum wage is low and should be increased, but this only leads the private sector to increase prices. The end result is the dollar does not buy any more. If government wants to really help reduce duty, drop port charges, reduce tax on fuel. The dollar can then buy more. Charles R Alberga Cayman is one of the wealthiest Caribbean islands and has the cheapest minimum wage. Go figure ! carabongiovanni1 The mysterious disappearance of scuba tanks Stop leaving the tanks or anything else on the boats at night. eric_joel_ Stick RFID trackers on the tanks! hogstermama Dive operators need to organise a watch and catch these criminals. lovesunsetsandstars Condo owners win sun- lounger fight Good news! Glad it worked out for the owners since they were diligent and did what was requested from the start. S H. Common sense prevailing for once by the sound of it. Paul Brazier cayman compass 4 news N news WEEKLY, 17-23 MAY 2024WEEKLY, 17-23 MAY 2024cayman compass 5 WEEKLY, 17 23 MAY 2024ANDREL HARRIS aharris@compassmedia.ky Under the watchful gaze of an armed police convoy, hundreds of pounds of urgently needed medical supplies from Cayman were trucked through the lush countryside of Honduras. The lifesaving gift, destined for a makeshift hospital atop Monte Placentero (Mount Pleasant) in Roatan, was donated by the Ministry of Health in partnership with Health City Cayman Islands in response to a devastating fire. A delegation of Cayman Islands ministers and senior government officials delivered supplies, sent aboard a Cayman Airways flight chartered by the Ministry of Tourism, on Wednesday. They were greeted with a hero’s welcome by Roatan’s mayor, the chief of police, and the medical director. “This will go towards helping hundreds of people, at this makeshift hospital,” said Mayor Ronnie McNab, as he gave the Cayman envoys a guided tour of the temporary hospital. “This is a big help because we lost everything in the fire.” Nearly a month ago, on 19 April, an electrical fire erupted late at night in the Roatan Public Hospital’s paediatric ward and swiftly spread through the mostly wooden structure. The building was comparable to the size of Cayman Brac’s Faith Hospital and was lost within minutes. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries. The modest medical facility was the main source of public healthcare for Roatan and the Bay Islands. “When we heard about the fire, we immediately sprang into action,” said West Bay West MP McKeeva Bush, who heads the Roatan and Bay Islands Relief Committee, formed in 2021 after a Category 5 hurricane left widespread devastation in its wake. According to Bush, as soon as the committee’s request for donations went out, they were met with supplies from the Ministry of Health and Health City Cayman Islands, among other organisations and donors. “After Ivan, Jerry [Hynds, Roatan’s former mayor] was the first person to pack a boat and set sail to us,” Bush said, “I will never forget that aboard that vessel was 10,000 gallons of drinking water and it came at a time when we needed it most.” Hynds, who spoke during a short reception, told a crowd of three dozen people about the long history of neighbourly generosity between Roatan and Cayman. “It is Cayman who actually came first. About 25 years ago, another hurricane had struck and I didn’t even know where the help would come from,” Hynds said. “But here came Cayman Airways at the time and I thought, thank God for these kind, good people.” The total amount of equipment and medicine sent over, as well as their cost, remains unknown. However, the Cayman Compass understands seven industrial luggage trolleys were needed to offload the supplies. “We are fortunate to be a blessed jurisdiction, and we were able to give to our neighbours in their time of need, without hurting or putting any strains on ourselves,” said Health Minister Sabrina Turner. She added, “When you give, it always has a way of coming back, and sometimes when you least expect it, but need it most.” According to McNab, his administration was in talks with Honduras’ central government to build a new hospital with funding from the International Monetary Fund, which resulted in the start of a US$47 million project. However, he anticipates it will take another 18 months before it is completed. Until then, Turner says Cayman will continue to assist to the best of its ability when called upon. Medical supplies donated to Roatan hospital The site of the new hospital, which is expected to be completed in 18 months and will service Roatan and the Bay Islands. - Photo: Andrel Harris At least seven luggage trolley loads of supplies were delivered on a chartered Cayman Airways flight to Roatan, Honduras. Caymanian and Honduran officials with the donated items. cayman compass 6 news N news WEEKLY, 17-23 MAY 2024cayman compass 7 WEEKLY, 17-23 MAY 2024JAMES WHITTAKER jwhittaker@compassmedia.ky Smiling broadly beneath the wide brim of his hat, Handel Whittaker looked out across the ramshackle pool area of the old Royal Palms bar and declared, “It’s great to be back on the beach.” Whittaker, whose much-loved Calico Jack’s venue closed in the early days of the pandemic, will soon be back in business on Seven Mile. The charismatic restaurateur has taken over another casualty of COVID and aims to reopen the Royal Palms Beach Club in November. Standing at the tumbledown bar Tuesday, murky pea-green water standing stagnant in the long-neglected pool, it was difficult to imagine the venue thronged with tourists. But Whittaker believes he and his team can resuscitate the once-popular restaurant and bring back a type of experience that has been missing from Seven Mile. “People are actually starving for this kind of venue,” said Whittaker. Since closing Calico’s in the early weeks of the pandemic, a decision he describes as “heart rending”, Whittaker said he had been inundated with calls, messages and nudges on the shoulder in the supermarket, asking when and where he would be reopening. The entrepreneur said he aimed to re-create the type of atmosphere that made Calico’s popular – where locals, expats and tourists – rich and poor – could rub shoulders. “We had instances where people were staying at the Ritz, but they would come straight to Calico’s, sit down with some jerk chicken, a bucket of CayBrew and just relax in their swimsuit,” he said. He plans to hire a staff of more than 60 for the new operation and indicated patrons could expect an atmosphere similar to what existed at both Royal Palms and Calico Jack’s, including full moon and New Year’s Eve parties. He said the venue would provide another option for cruise tourists to enjoy Seven Mile Beach during the day and a spot that locals and residents could frequent at night. While a number of new upmarket venues have emerged on the beach over the past few years, many people have lamented the loss of more affordable, casual bars that used to populate the shoreline. With plans for beach access and sun- lounger service, Whittaker said he hopes to create the Calico’s vibe a few miles away at the southern end of the beach. Calico’s itself is undergoing a revamp, and work appeared to be well under way to renovate that site this week. The property, like Royal Palms, is owned by the Dart group, which has indicated a desire to create a new restaurant at that location, close to Hotel Indigo, which it just opened on the edge of Public Beach. Work to be done The Royal Palms bar remains as it was when it abruptly closed as the island shut down in the spring of 2020. Construction fencing surrounds the property, and tattered and fading wooden signs point the way to crumbling facilities flecked with peeling paint. Over the next few months, the site will get a lot of love and attention, says Whittaker. “We are very confident that we can have this up and running pretty shortly. It’s a lot of work, but in another couple of weeks, it’ll be a whole different atmosphere.” He has his sights set on the start of the next tourism season. Whittaker, along with Terrance Hucker, Marty Francis and Devon Clark, of the Animals restaurant-management company, which also runs The Bird and The Roost, signed a lease on the property with the Dart group. The new venue will not include the section of the bar closest to the ocean, and a decision is pending on what to do with that site in the long term. Amid significant erosion along this stretch of beach, there have been calls for the property to be demolished and moved further back. The arrangement with Whittaker was characterised as a medium-term solution for the site. Robert Weekley, Dart senior vice president development planning, said in a statement: “As we evaluate our long-term plans for the site, we decided that in the meantime, it is best to work with someone with an established track record in the industry on possible options. “Mr Whittaker expressed a desire to utilise the location and we got the ball rolling. We believe this is a win-win for all involved and provides further economic stimulus during the refurbishment and operations.” Renovation of the site is subject to relevant planning department approvals, he added, indicating that turtle friendly lighting would be installed as well as measures to lessen the impact on neighbours. Under the agreement between Dart and Whittaker, elements of the property will be refurbished, with a wooden deck constructed to the south of the existing pool area. There is no connection between Handel Whittaker and James Whittaker, the writer of this story. Editor’s Note: The Cayman Compass is a subsidiary of Dart Media and Entertainment. Former Calicos owner back in the beach bar business at Royal Palms Handel Whittaker to breathe new life into the venue The Royal Palms beach bar is on a deeply eroded stretch of beach. Though some sand has returned since this image was taken, calls remain for it to be moved further back. The Animals partners, from left, Terrance Hucker, Marty Francis, Handel Whittaker and Devon Clark. - Photo: Taneos Ramsay Handel Whittaker aims to bring the same casual vibe of Calicos back to Royal Palms. - Photo: James Whittaker cayman compass 8 news N news WEEKLY, 17-23 MAY 2024The full profiles for these positions are available at: www.ccrif.org/content/job-posting Interested individuals should submit applications no later than May 27, 2024. Email applications to: jobs@ccrif.org Risk Management Specialist TheRiskManagementSpecialist(RMS)isafull-time technicalpositionproviding technical support to the management team in catastrophe risk modelling, risk management, and financial planning strategies. The RMS is pivotal to risk evaluation processes, exercising in-depth knowledge of catastrophe models to operate, interpret, and adapt them for optimal performance. Post-event performance analysis and model improvement recommendations will be key aspects of the function as well as supporting project management, product development and cooperation with research institutions. Requirements The Risk Management Specialist requires expertise in catastrophe modelling and an understanding of actuarial methods as well as strong mathematical skills with special focus on statistics and probability. Experience with computer programming, GIS software, and the Linux OS is essential. The RMS is expected to have a Master’s degree in a relevant field, such as Risk Assessment, Environmental Engineering or Data Science. A minimum of 3 years’ experience in catastrophe modelling and actuarial methods is preferred. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree with 7 years’ relevant experience can be considered. The ability and willingness to work virtually, travel occasionally, and manage a flexible schedule is a must. The successful candidate must have excellent oral and written communications skills in English. Fluency in Spanish is considered an asset. Client Insurance Specialist The Client Insurance Specialist (CIS) is a full-time technical position, with responsibility for CCRIF’s core insurance activities. The CIS will work closely with the Senior Client Insurance Specialist to administer insurance policies, from issuance and claims processing to renewals; manage communications with clients at various stages in the policy cycle; and to support capacity building initiatives. The role requires a deep understanding of insurance and reinsurance, with a focus on policy wording and claims. Requirements The ideal candidate for this position will have a Master’s degree in Risk Management or Insurance with a minimum of 7 years’ relevant experience. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree with 12 years’ experience can be considered. Experience in insurance underwriting (specifically catastrophe coverages), policy issuance, and claims management is a must. The ability to work virtually, travel occasionally, and manage a flexible schedule across time zones is a requirement. The successful candidate must have excellent oral and written communications skills in English. Fluency in Spanish is considered an asset. Actuarial Analyst The Actuarial Analyst is a full-time, technical position, supporting the Senior Actuarial Analyst and the Chief Risk Management Officerwith the underwriting of parametric insurance policies, developing dynamic financial analysis tools, managing risk appetite, and managing access to reinsurance coverage. The role requires a strong foundation in actuarial methods and catastrophe modelling capabilitiesforanalyzingthe portfolio and producing risk management reports. In-depth familiarity with insurance and reinsurance practices, including policy wording and claims analysis, will enhance the incumbent’s ability to contribute meaningfully. Requirements The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree in Actuarial Science or Data Science and a minimum of 3 years’ experience in a similar industry. Experience in at least 2 of the following areas is a must: actuarial methods, underwriting, catastrophe modelling, insurance, and reinsurance. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree in Actuarial Science or Data Science paired with a minimum of 5 years’ relevant industry experience fulfilling at least 2 of the aforementioned areas will be considered. The successful candidate must have excellent oral and written communications skills in English. Fluency in Spanish is considered an asset. Job Opportunities at CCRIF SPC cayman compass 9 WEEKLY, 17-23 MAY 2024Next >