iNews Briefs & Community Events
Hulu losses deepen as content investments rise
By: Jason Aycock, From SA
Amid heavy investments on original content, Hulu lost $920M last year, according to a Comcast 10-K.
The service — co-owned by Comcast (CMCSA -3.2%), Disney (DIS -1.8%), Fox (FOX -2.1%, FOXA -2%) and Time Warner (TWX -1.5%) — had lost $531M the year prior.
Owners invested $1B, up from the prior-year $733M, including $583M from new partner Time Warner.
Investments (and content costs) are expected to climb further in the coming year, as amid a transformation in the ownership (Disney’s deal for Fox media assets means it will add Fox’s 30% stake to its own, to hold 60%).
As of year-end, Hulu said it had more than 17M subs for its on-demand and live packages.
Comcast 10-K
Cayman Islands prepare for 51st Agriculture Show
From Fresh Plaza
At the Agriculture Pavilion on Agricola Drive, in Lower Valley, everyone is getting ready for the 2018 Agriculture Show. This year the annual event will be held for the 51st time. The show, one of the largest community events in Cayman, usually attracts more than 10,000 people and the organizers are expecting at least that number this year.
It opens at 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 14, at the Agriculture Grounds in Lower Valley.
Claudette McKenzie, agronomist at the Agriculture Department said: “In preparation for the big day, we have lots of fruit trees -over 250- for sale. We have East Indian, Julie, Nam doc, Valencia, Jakarta, Nelson, Duncan [mangoes]. We also have tomato, Scotch bonnet, sweet peppers, bell peppers and big sun peppers, an assortment of mints, breadfruit, avocado, soursop, naseberry – a huge variety of local plants for sale.
For more: http://www.freshplaza.com/article/189229/Cayman-Islands-prepare-for-51st-Agriculture-Show
Cayman PAC meetings
The Chairman of the Cayman Islands Public Accounts Committee has scheduled the hearings below:
The Financial Reporting of the Cayman Islands Government General Report 2015 and 2016 Financial Audits Hearings
Hearing on Wednesday, 21st February 2018 at 9:00 am.
Hearing on Thursday, 22nd February 2018 at 10:00 am.
Hearing on Friday, 23rd February 2018 at 10:00 am.
New Royal Caribbean video
Royal Caribbean have just launched a new video, “Royal Caribbean Adventurist Shay Mitchell: Sailing in St. Maarten.” Check out how Shay’s adventures continue in St. Maarten. Whether she’s sailing on a former America’s Cup champion regatta yacht or cruising the shores on a Rhino inflatable boat – she does it in style.
View Video Here: https://www.royalcaribbeanpresscenter.com/video/962/royal-caribbean-adventurist-shay-mitchell-sailing-in-st-maarten/
Cayman Islands Smoking Cessation Classes: ‘I Can Quit’
The Public Health Department reminds smokers who wish to quit the habit that there are still some spaces left for the upcoming smoking cessation classes the department is offering. Classes start on 21 February 2018 from 5.15 p.m. to 6.45 p.m. every Wednesday for seven weeks in the Public Health waiting room.
For more information or to sign up, contact the Public Health Department on 244-2889/244-2621, or email [email protected] or [email protected]
The Alex Panton Foundation Launch events to raise awareness of mental illnesses affecting children and young adults in the Cayman Islands
The Alex Panton Foundation is a not-for-profit with the primary objective of raising awareness of mental illnesses affecting children and young adults in the Cayman Islands with a particular focus on anxiety and depression.
There are two launch events coming up:
Hidden movie premiere
Date: Thursday, February 8th
Time: 6:00 pm
Location: Camana Bay Cinema
The film has been created to build awareness around mental illness by highlighting how those suffering can be misunderstood and left with the feeling of being alone.
Alex Panton Foundation Launch Symposium
Date: Saturday, February 10th
Time: 2:00 pm – 5:00pm. (Registration Begins at 1:30) Followed by a social hour
Location: Grand Cayman Marriott, White Sands Ballroom
The symposium will feature several speakers with subject matter expertise and mental health service providers showcasing various forms of treatment for Cayman’s youth and young adults. We hope that by raising the profile of local mental health services and resources, persons suffering from mental illness will know where to turn for help or advice.
The events are free to attend. Please confirm attendance to Abby Hydes at [email protected].
END
IMAGE: Mayo Clinic
Cayman Islands: Stolen Black Honda Civic, 3 Feb
Police responded to a report of a stolen vehicle just after 1PM on Saturday 3 February.
The vehicle was last seen on Thursday 1 Feb at 5PM and was discovered to be stolen on Saturday 3 Feb at 10AM. The vehicle is a 1998 black Honda Civic registration #142-277. The vehicle was described as heavily tinted with a black lip cover on the front of the vehicle.
Reg.#: 142-277
Make: Honda
Model: Civic
Colour: Black
A picture of the actual vehicle is attached.
Anyone with information regarding this vehicle is asked to call 9-1-1 or the George Town Police Station at 949-4222. Anonymous tips can be provided directly to the RCIPS via our Confidential Tip Line at 949-7777 or via the Miami-based call centre of Crime Stoppers at 800-8477(TIPS), or online at the link: https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=681
Cayman Islands: JHC Memorial Walk Date Set
START: April 14, 2018 6:00 am END: April 14, 2018 9:00 am LOCATION: ICCI Campus
This year, the Dr. John Hugh Cummings Memorial walk is scheduled for April 14, 2018 which is the birthday of our first President, who passed away in 2000. Dr. Cummings founded ICCI with his wife, President Emerita Dr. Elsa M. Cummings and a group of supporters and friends who believed the people of the Cayman Islands needed opportunities for professional and personal development and growth through tertiary education.
The walk starts at the campus of the International College and participants make their way to Pedro St. James and back to enjoy fellow, exercise and an opportunity to reflect. Please join us and sign up early. Contact 947-1100 if you need more information.
Offshore supply tug capsized, Captain missing, Caribbean
by Mikhail Voytenko From FleetMon
Offshore supply tug GALLEON ADVENTURER capsized but remained adrift early in the morning Feb 1, in vicinity 11 28N 061 53W, some 40 nm south of St. Georges, Grenada, Caribbean. Vessel loaded with concrete slabs was en route to Grenada, reportedly slabs shifted as the vessel encountered rough weather, making vessel unstable. Of 6 crew, 5 were rescued, Captain went missing – according to rescued testimony, he returned to vessel to pick up some documents, and disappeared.
Cayman Islands: Clifton Hunter High School Incident
Clifton Hunter High School (CHHS) seeks to clarify false information being circulated today (Friday, 2 February 2018) on an incident that occurred two weeks ago involving students of CHHS.
Two friends were playing roughly and one caused an injury to the other. The student was taken to the hospital for treatment following the incident. In keeping with existing practice enacted by all Government schools, the school liaised with the students and parents, and also checked on the injured student while he was at the hospital, and again at home.
It has been said on social media that the injured student was left paralysed as a result of the incident. However, this is not factually correct, and the student has since returned to school in good health.
Eighth British attorney struck off over Axiom Legal Financing Fund fraud
From OffshoreAlert
February 01, 2018 – Andrew Lindsay has become at least the eighth British attorney to be struck off due to involvement in the Cayman Islands-based Axiom Legal Financing Fund, which defrauded investors of more than £100 million before collapsing in 2012 after being exposed by OffshoreAlert. Another solicitor, Marina Frankel, was suspended indefinitely.
Story link: Eighth British attorney struck off over Axiom Legal Financing Fund fraud
Cayman politician McKeeva Bush seeks evidence from UK Gov’t ‘adviser’ Larry Covington in Miami
From OffshoreAlert
January 22, 2018 – Cayman Islands politician McKeeva Bush has applied to take evidence from Miami-based United Kingdom government security adviser Larry Covington for use in a civil damages claim Bush is pursuing in Cayman for “malicious prosecution” after he was found not guilty of corruption.
Story link: Cayman politician McKeeva Bush seeks evidence from UK Gov’t ‘adviser’ Larry Covington in Miami
Cayman Islands NRA to upgrade Seaview Road in East End
National Roads Authority (NRA) is pleased to announce that commencing on Monday 5th February road upgrade works will be carried out along Seaview Road in East End. Work will be taking place from near the west end of Lovers Wall to near the Blow Holes. Works will include shoulder construction, installation of guard rail for some sections and paving.
NRA crews and Island Paving crews will be carrying out the works. Traffic Management will be in place during the works which will be done between 9 am and 4 pm on week days.
Road users are asked to exercise caution when driving through the area, for their safety and the safety of the work crews. The works are expected to take approximately two (2) months to complete.
For any questions or further information please contact the National Roads Authority at 623-7780.
For general inquiries contact [email protected], visit www.caymanroads.com and www.facebook.com/nraroads
Cayman Islands: Overseas Scholarship Application Extension
The Ministry of Education has decided to extend the deadline for Overseas Scholarship applications from 31 January to 28 February 2018. This extension is being offered in order to ensure that every interested student has the opportunity to apply for funding during the current period. The overseas application submission window will therefore close at 11:59pm on February 28th 2018. The Ministry wishes a successful outcome for each and every applicant during this year’s scholarship process and would like to remind applicants that all of the required information needs to be submitted before the deadline in order for applications to be processed.
To obtain the link for online applications, please visit www.education.gov.ky. For more information, contact 244-2482 or send an email to [email protected]
Cayman Islands Motorists Advised to Exercise Caution in the Walkers Road Area, 12 February
Cayman Academy will be hosting a cross country race on Monday, 12 February, from 7:00AM to approximately 8:00AM. Students will be travelling from the school, which is located off Walkers Road, onto Memorial Avenue and then turning left onto South Church Street. They will then turn left at the intersection of South Church Street and Denham Thompson Way, continue back onto Walkers Road and then to the Truman Bodden Sports Complex via Academy Way, Aspiration Drive, and Olympic Way.
Motorists are advised to exercise caution when traveling through these areas at this time.
Cayman Islands 21st Anniversary International Fishing Tournament
Cayman Islands: Permanent Financial Assistance Re-assessments
Persons receiving Permanent Financial Assistance benefit are subject to periodic re-assessments. Anyone not assessed since 1 July 2015 must be re-assessed by the Needs Assessment Unit to continue receiving this service.
To start the re-assessment process, get a form from the NAU’s offices in Grand Cayman/Cayman Brac, via email [email protected], on the www.nau.gov.ky website or from your Department of Children and Family Services district Community Development Officer. The completed form/supporting documentation must be returned to the NAU by Friday, 30 March 2018. Once all necessary paperwork is received an appointment will be scheduled as necessary. Please note that failure to comply will result in payments initially being placed on hold.
For further information contact the NAU immediately on 946-0024 (Grand Cayman) or 948-8748 (Cayman Brac).
Cayman Islands: Honda Civics stolen in West Bay, 6 February
Yesterday, 6 February, police received two reports of stolen vehicles in the West Bay area:
Shortly before 5:20PM, officers responded to a report of a stolen 1998 white Honda Civic hatchback, registration #147 792. The vehicle was parked in the parking lot of Pleasant Point Apartments, West Bay, and was last seen on Monday, 5 February, at about 8:00PM. It was discovered missing on 6 February at about 4:30PM. The vehicle also has a “thumbs up” sticker on the gas cap cover and a blue and silver sticker on the back.
Vehicle:
Year: 1998
Make: Honda
Model: Civic (Hatchback)
Colour: White
Registration: 147 792
Pictures of similar vehicle is attached.
Just after 10:45PM, police responded to a report of stolen 1998 dark blue Honda Civic hatchback registration #180 451. The vehicle was parked in the parking lot of Calypso Grill in West Bay, was last seen at about 7:30PM, and was discovered missing at 10:30PM.
See attached photos of the Dark Blue Honda Civic, registration 180 451, referred to in the below release. Photos are of the actual vehicle. Note that the vehicle has red lines on the bumpers, wheels, gas tank cover, and front and rear wipers, as well as a white decal of two girls on the right side front door.
Also note that the vehicle was last seen at 6:30PM
Vehicle:
Year: 1998
Make: Honda
Model: Civic (Hatchback)
Colour: Dark Blue
Registration: 180 451
Anyone with information regarding these vehicles is asked to call 9-1-1 or the West Bay Police Station at 649-3999. Anonymous tips can be provided directly to the RCIPS via our Confidential Tip Line at 949-7777 or via the Miami-based call centre of Crime Stoppers at 800-8477(TIPS), or online at the link: https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=681
Cayman Islands: Stolen 1998 Silver Honda Integra, 27 January
Just after 8:40PM on Saturday, 27 January, police responded to a report of stolen 1998 silver Honda Integra registration #125-885. The vehicle was parked along West Bay Road in George Town at 3PM. The owner returned for the vehicle around 8PM and discovered the vehicle missing. A picture of a similar vehicle is attached.
Vehicle:
Year: 1998
Make: Honda
Model: Integra
Colour: Silver
Registration: 125 885
Anyone with information regarding this vehicle is asked to call 9-1-1 or the George Town Police Station at 949-4222. Anonymous tips can be provided directly to the RCIPS via our Confidential Tip Line at 949-7777 or via the Miami-based call centre of Crime Stoppers at 800-8477(TIPS), or online at the link: https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=681
Cayman Islands Family Resource Centre January/February Parenting Programmes
The Family Resource Centre (FRC) is delivering the following free Parenting programmes for families in January and February 2018:
■ Young Parent Services – 13-week (Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays) parenting education programme for young parents and their infants/ toddlers – 8:30 a.m.-1p.m. (for dates please contact the FRC on the email/number below)
■ Family Skills Session – Information session on upcoming FRC Services – Wednesday, 24 January, 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
■ Positive Discipline Workshop – six-week Parenting workshop designed to equip parents with positive discipline strategies to help manage children’s behaviours – starting Wednesday, 24 January, 12 p.m.-1 p.m.
■ Co-Parenting Programme – 10-week programme for families raising children between two separate households – starting Monday, 29 January, 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.
■ Love Shouldn’t Hurt – Monthly psychoeducational sessions exploring the dynamics of Domestic Violence, starting Tuesday, 30 January, 12 p.m.-1 p.m.
■ Stop Now And Plan (SNAP) – 13-week programme teaching children with behavioural problems, and their parents to make better choices in the moment – starting Thursday, 1 February, 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.
For further information, or to register for the above programmes, email [email protected] or call the FRC on 949-0006.
Final Extension for all Cayman Islands Contractors to Register
The Builders Board has again extended, for the final time, the deadline for all local contractors to register with the board. The contractors’ deadline has been moved a full four-months from Thu (30 November 2017) to 31 March 2018.
All contractors will have to register to be able to seek permits or request inspections from the Planning Department after 31 March next year.
This registration requirement is for general and civil contractors, residential and building contractors as well as trade contractors.
For fees and registration forms, contractors should visit www.planning.ky/boards-all/builders-board.
Cayman Islands Public Holidays for 2018 Confirmed
The list of Cayman Islands Public Holidays for 2018 is now officially confirmed and released by the Deputy Governor’s Office.
The list is as follows:
New Year’s Day: Monday, 1 January 2018;
National Heroes Day: Monday, 22 January 2018;
Ash Wednesday: Wednesday, 14 February 2018;
Good Friday: Friday, 30 March 2018;
Easter Monday: Monday, 2 April 2018;
Discovery Day: Monday, 21 May 2018;
Queen’s Birthday: Monday, 11 June 2018;
Constitution Day: Monday, 2 July 2018;
Remembrance Day: Monday, 12 November 2018;
Christmas: Tuesday, 25 December 2018; and
Boxing Day: Wednesday, 26 December 2018.
COMMUNITY EVENTS (Date Order)
TUE FEB 6
CAF Rising Stars
Cayman Arts Festival presents Rising Stars on Tuesday (6 Feb) at 6pm at the George Town Public Library.
WED FEB 7
CAF at National Gallery
Cayman Arts Festivals presents a musical concert at the National Gallery on Wednesday (7 Feb) at 5pm.
Student Consulting Programme
THU FEB 8
CAF Song Recital
Cayman Arts Festival presents a Song Recital on Thursday (8 Feb) at the Westin Hotel Ballroom at 7pm.
West End Primary PTA Meeting
The West End Primary PTA Meeting is Thursday (8 Feb) at 7pm in the School Hall.
FRI FEB 9
LSHS School Sports Day
LSHS School Sports Day is Friday (9 Feb) at 9am at the Cayman Brac Sports Complex.
SAT FEB 10
CAF New York Cabaret Night
Cayman Arts Festival presents a New York Cabaret Night on Saturday (10 Feb) at the Marriott Hotel Ballroom at 7pm.
Cayman Islands Early Childhood Association Meeting
The Cayman Islands Early Childhood Association is hosting its annual general meeting at St. Ignatius School at 9am.
Valentine’s 5K Fun Walk/Run
The Valentine’s 5K Fun Walk/Run hosted by St. George’s Anglican Church is Saturday (10 Feb) at 6am at Smith Barcadere
SUN FEB 11
Valentine’s Day Run/Walk
Race Caribbean presents a Valentine’s Day Run/Walk on Sunday (11 Feb) at 4pm at Bayshore Mall.
Mercury Man Triathlon
The Mercury Man Triathlon is Sunday (11 Feb). For more information, head to caymanactive.com
MON FEB 12
Cayman Academy Cross Country Race
Cayman Academy will be hosting a cross country race on Monday, 12 February, from 7:00AM to approximately 8:00AM. Students will be travelling from the school, which is located off Walkers Road, onto Memorial Avenue and then turning left onto South Church Street. They will then turn left at the intersection of South Church Street and Denham Thompson Way, continue back onto Walkers Road and then to the Truman Bodden Sports Complex via Academy Way, Aspiration Drive, and Olympic Way. Motorists are advised to exercise caution when traveling through these areas at this time.
TUE FEB 13
Immigration Board Meeting
The Cayman Brac and Little Cayman Immigration Board Meeting is Tuesday (13 Feb).
WED FEB 14
Ash Wednesday with St. Alban’s Church of England
St. Alban’s Church of England will hold the service of IMPOSITION OF ASHES AND HOLY COMMUNION at 9.30 a.m. on Ash Wednesday, February 14 following MATTINS at 9 a.m. in the church at 461 Shedden Road, George Town (opposite Bodden Place).
All are invited.
SAT FEB 17
Free Health Checks
The Lion’s Club of Tropical Gardens presents free health checks on Saturday (17 Feb) from 11am to 2pm at St. George’s Anglican Church.
Infinite Mindcare Talk Series
You’re invited to the Infinite Mindcare Talk Series at Books and Books on Saturday (17 Feb) at 2pm. This month’s topic is Crazy Little Thing Called Love: Mastering Relationships.
SUN FEB 18
36th Annual KiwaniBike
The 36th Annual KiwaniBike is Sunday (18 Feb) at 7am at the Blow Holes.
Brain Tumor Foundation Charity 5K Walk/Run
MON FEB 19
South Sound Boardwalk Construction
Work on the South Sound Boardwalk is anticipated to begin on 19 February 2018.
TUE FEB 20
The Cayman Islands Seafarers Association
“The Cayman Islands Seafarers Association wishes to inform all Members that there will be a General Meeting, for yearly election of new officers, on Tuesday 20 February at 7:30 PM. in the Seafarer’s Hall, 11 Victory Ave. Prospect.
Buses will be provided from West Bay Town Hall at 6:00 pm”.
A Bus route has been added in George Town, leaving the Public library parking area at 7:00, stopping at Cayman Compass building and the Airport Fosters. The bus is marked Bobo $1 Public transport and is blue in colour, there is no charge.
