PROVIDENICALES, Turks & Caicos Islands - October 6, 2006 - The Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA), the country's leading tourism industry group, made history this week by announcing that Mr. Butch Clare has been named chairman of the board, marking the first time a Turks & Caicos native has held this position.

Mr. Clare replaces Mr. Andre Niederhauser as chairman and joins a board that includes: Mr. Tom Lewis, managing director of Ocean Club Resorts; Ms. Beverly Williams, general manager of La Vele Resort; Mr. Sandy McDougall, general manager of Provo Airport Company; Mr. Gordon Lightbourne, managing director of St. Charles Resort; Mr. Nikheel Advani, general manager of Grace Bay Club; Mr. Scott Robbins, General Manager of Beaches; Mr. Doug Parnell, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Mr. Caesar Campbell, chief executive officer of TCHTA.

"These are especially exciting times in Turks & Caicos as we experience unprecedented tourism growth and development," said Campbell. "The rich and varied background of experience that Butch brings to this position along with his unique perspective as a native will be invaluable assets to the organization as we evolve our tourism product."

South Caicos son, Mr. Butch Clare started his career as an air traffic controller in the early 1970s. He held positions at Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines and with Springboard, a training and development organization focused on tourism. He spent three years as a manager at Beaches prior to becoming the resident manager at the Royal West Indies. Currently, he is the general manager at The Meridian Club on Pine Cay.

"I'm excited to serve the country and my tourism colleague as the Chairman of the TCHTA," said Mr. Butch Clare. "As an active member of the tourism industry, I've watched the TCHTA grow into an influential body that makes a big impact on a country whose economy is based on tourism. I believe I can use my experience with both large and small properties to help guide the organization to the next phase of its development."

About the TCHTA
Made up of hoteliers and business managers, the TCHTA is a volunteer organization dedicated to achieving sustainable growth in tourism for the benefit of its members and the wider community, while protecting and enhancing the unique character and environment of the Turks & Caicos Islands. The TCHTA consists of more than 100 businesses and organizations, including the major resorts and property developments in TCI, as well as other businesses supporting the tourism and development industries throughout the country. Additional information, including membership applications, can be found at www.tchta.com.