TC Weekly News, November 23-29, 2024

Judge confirms second corruption trial for December 2

– TCI faces another 2.5-year SIPT trial

BY DELANA ISLES

Justice Rajendra Narine has scheduled the commencement of the second corruption trial for Michael Misick, McAllister Hanchell, and Thomas Chalmers Misick on December 2, 2024. The judge anticipates that the trial will conclude within six to nine months.

This announcement follows the judge’s decision to deny an abuse of process application filed by Hanchell’s attorney during a hearing held on October 21 and 22. The judge determined that there was no abuse of process in the previous trial and hearings involving the accused, nor were there breaches of constitutional rights.

A written judgment from that hearing is still pending, with reasons for the decision yet to be outlined. Meanwhile, during a case management hearing on November 14, the court determined that the upcoming trial would last approximately six to nine months. This timeline aligns with the expectations shared during the first retrial of Floyd Hall, Clayton Greene, Jeffrey Hall, and Melbourne Wilson.

In 2021, Chief Justice Mabel Agyemang, who presided over that retrial, set an initial six-month timeline. However, that estimate proved optimistic; the first retrial

began on June 25, 2021, and concluded with convictions and sentences on September 25, 2023. At the time, it was expected that both retrials would be completed by December 2022, after having taken several years to resolve the initial trial.

The first trial lasted two and a half years, and with the second retrial involving the three main defendants in this extensive trial process, it is unlikely to be completed within the proposed nine-month timeframe.

In 2021, the Chief Justice agreed to the prosecution’s proposal to conduct two separate retrials instead of one, a decision prompted by the sudden death of

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the trial judge in the first trial.

The first trial was prolonged, lasting around five years, largely due to frequent delays for health reasons, extended breaks, a lengthy witness list, and multiple charges.

In May 2021, Prosecutor Andrew Mitchell KC was given three weeks to devise a new plan to make the retrial less burdensome, fair, and efficient.

The revised plan aimed to streamline the evidence presented, reducing the number of developments listed in the

indictment associated with the alleged corruption scheme in which the defendants were said to have participated. However, even after this evidence severance and the Chief Justice’s optimism for a swift trial, the process proved to be just as lengthy and complicated as the initial trial, taking roughly half the time of the Harrison trial.

It took the Office of the Public Prosecution and the Judiciary ten months after the conclusion of the verdicts for Floyd Hall and Clayton Greene to appoint a

new judge to manage the second trial.

When the Misick brothers and Hanchell return to court in December, the Prosecution will present evidence regarding five charges implicating the former Premier in misconduct during his time in office, three charges alleging that Hanchell conspired with the Misick brothers both together and separately, and three additional charges concerning Chalmers Misick’s conspiracy with his brother and Hanchell.

Gaming Control Commission cracks down on illegal gambling in TCI

In a stern move to uphold the integrity of the gaming industry, the Gaming Control Commission of the Turks and Caicos Islands has issued a public notice demanding an immediate halt to all unauthorised and illegal gaming activities across the islands.

The Commission, established to regulate and supervise the gaming sector, aims to curb illicit gambling practices that can lead to social discord and undermine the community’s well-being. This directive is a clear message that only gaming activities conducted within licensed venues and in strict compliance with the law will be tolerated.

The Commission’s Public Notice, issued on November 20, 2024, draws attention to Section 3 of the Casinos Ordinance, which provides the legal framework for

regulating gaming activities. It serves as a stark reminder that individuals and businesses found to be facilitating or participating in illegal gambling could face severe consequences.

Under Section 46 of the Casinos Ordinance, those convicted of engaging in illegal gaming can be subject to substantial fines and potential imprisonment. Furthermore, Section 47 criminalizes the possession of gaming instruments without a lawful excuse, further emphasizing the Commission’s commitment to eradicating unlawful gambling.

The Commission has announced that it will be collaborating with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force to investigate and enforce these regulations. The joint effort aims to ensure transparency and adherence to the law in all enforcement actions.

This crackdown on illegal gambling underscores the importance of compliance and responsible gaming practices for all residents and businesses in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Individuals and businesses interested in pursuing legal gaming ventures are encouraged to seek information on obtaining the necessary licenses.

The Gaming Control Commission’s website, www. tcigamingcc.tc, provides resources and contact information for those seeking to operate within the legal framework of the gaming industry. This decisive action by the Gaming Control Commission represents a significant step towards fostering a transparent, fair, and regulated gaming environment in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Michael Misick

McAllister Hanchell

Chal Misick

Police Commissioner resigns amidst crime wave in TCI

– Personal reasons cited; replacement to be found

BY DELANA ISLES

Seven months into his tenure, the Commissioner of Police for the Turks and Caicos Islands has resigned for personal reasons amid growing public concerns regarding safety and effective leadership.

On Thursday, November 22, the Governor’s Office announced that she had accepted Edvin Martin’s resignation as Commissioner of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. The statement indicated, “The circumstances are unavoidable due to a personal matter that requires Mr Martin’s urgent attention”.

The TCI is currently experiencing an unprecedented rise in violent crime, with 43 murders reported to date—almost double the figures from 2023—alongside increased armed robberies and a proliferation of illegal firearms on the streets. This situation is further compounded by criminal elements breaching the territory’s borders to illegally enter the TCI and disrupt communities already grappling with rising crime rates.

HE Governor Dileeni DanielSelvaratnam assured the public that to maintain stability and direction, Deputy Commissioner Fitz Bailey will serve as the acting Commissioner starting November 22 (Friday), while the process to recruit a permanent replacement is

undertaken.

Commissioner Martin had previously taken a six-week leave starting October 3. Following this, Bailey - retired Jamaican law enforcer - was appointed temporarily on October 7 to support the Force’s executive team, while Deputy Commissioner Rodney Adams and Assistant Commissioner Kendal Grant were appointed to serve as acting Commissioners during this period.

According to the Governor’s statement, with Martin’s resignation, Grant will now act as the second Deputy Commissioner alongside Deputy Commissioner Adams.

When news of Martin’s resignation was made public, many residents expressed that

TCI revolutionises border security with tech-driven overhaul

In a move to bolster security and streamline immigration processes, the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force this week announced a sweeping modernisation initiative.

The ambitious plan, spearheaded by the Digital Borders Programme, will leverage cutting-edge technology and data integration to transform the traveller experience while enhancing security measures.

The programme’s centrepiece is the introduction of a comprehensive, digitised immigration system that will create a unified, accessible record for every migrant, streamlining the tracking of immigration status and

history.

Biometric data collection will be used to establish secure digital identities for both residents and visitors, adding another layer of protection against potential fraud.

“Extensive preparatory work has already been undertaken, supported by external consultancy services funded by the UK Government.

Following this groundwork, a detailed set of requirements has been released and is now open to tender”, the Border Force stated.

Travellers can expect faster, more efficient border crossings with the implementation of E-Gates at international airports.

they were not surprised by yet another resignation from the Commissioner’s post. There were calls for local officers to have a chance at leadership positions, rather than serving in acting roles.

“This resignation should come as no surprise to any of us. Perhaps HE (Her Excellency) is now open to considering our very own Kendal Grant for this position, given the notable reduction in crime under his leadership,” one resident speculated.

Another asserted: “The precedent that we are setting for our children that anyone else can do a job you are qualified to do better than you is beyond understanding.

“Why must we have two Deputies and why have two of our own most senior police not been

deemed worthy of running the police force? Morale for the force could never be where it should be when this is done repeatedly.”

A third resident expressed disappointment: “We could never get local commissioners and local chief justices for some reason. What’s worst is that when they send us someone or advertise roles from within this country internationally the people who come here pick up the same nepotistic ways as their influential bad minded local counterparts to fit in with this society. I see it over and over year after year.

“Jags (JAGS McCartney) wanted local everything. That’s one thing this country stay running from. I heard it out his own mouth on the documentary and until then

we never gonna see the TCI that’s worth having. Until then let’s bask in what we always settle for.”

Martin, a former police commissioner in Grenada, began his role as Commissioner of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force on April 22, 2024. He replaced Trevor Botting, whose contract ended in November 2023 and was not renewed after serving six years in the position.

The Governor thanked former Commissioner Martin for his service to the Islands, acknowledging that the situation is regrettable and noting that it was a difficult decision for Martin and his family. She emphasised that the government is now focused on ensuring the stability of the Force and addressing the threats facing the territory.

“I am confident Mr Bailey is well placed to lead the Force, drawing on his extensive experience with complex crime and strategic leadership. I thank the officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force for their continued professionalism and dedicated service.”

A Joint Ministerial Council was swiftly convened on Thursday, comprising the Premier, the Governor, and security leaders to discuss support for securing TCI’s borders and strengthening internal security.

These automated gates will expedite processing for TCI citizens and low-risk visitors, reducing wait times significantly. Additionally, automated preentry checks will ensure that all individuals traveling to the TCI meet entry requirements before embarking on their journey.

This comprehensive upgrade to border security and immigration management is a key priority for the Turks and Caicos Islands Government.

The tender for the Digitisation of Border Services initially opened

The initiative also includes the deployment of biometric devices at government offices and for use by Border Force officers in the field, enabling rapid and accurate identification.

in June and has recently closed and the Border Force is moving swiftly into the next phase of procurement, demonstrating a firm commitment to modernising its services.

The initiative represents a significant investment in the future of the Turks and Caicos Islands, promising enhanced security, improved efficiency, and a more seamless experience for travellers.

Acting Commissioner of Police, Fitz Bailey

Edvin Martin stepped down as Police Commissioner

Visitors at the Howard Hamilton International Airport, Providenciales

ASTWOOD VS THE GOVERNOR

The Opposition Leader has made serious accusations against the Governor, the UK Government, the Attorney General and the Deputy Governor, claiming they are colluding with the PNP Government to steal the next general election.

The leader, Hon Edwin Astwood comments came shortly after the Premier’s announcement of a $1000 cost-of-living relief for Islanders. A move his party believes is designed to sway the voters, and was allowed to happen with no oversight from the Governor’s Office.

In response to Astwood’s claims, HE Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam issued a statement calling his comments untrue and self-serving.

She wrote: “Assertions that my actions as Governor and that of the Deputy Governor and Attorney General have been unconstitutional are not only untrue but serve to undermine the integrity of our constitutional offices, which are tasked with upholding the principles of impartiality and good governance.

“Our respective roles are ones of neutrality, acting independently of party or political motivations. Commentary suggesting otherwise disregards the established responsibilities and impartial standards of our offices, which we continue to uphold.”

What are your thoughts?

People are suffering

Truth be told, we all understand the political implications and the politics at play, but some of us don’t have the luxury of refusing this stimulus, times are hard.

Unity on the stimulus

Given the high cost of living there cannot be any opposition to the idea of a stimulus. In fact in his press conference this week, the Hon Leader of the Opposition stated that he would roll-out three sets of stimulus rounds. This is good and affordable and it is agreed that the People need as much help as can be given. Voices from the PDM Opposition hold that where the current PNP Government ‘could just give’ Club Med- $13 million of the people’s money, taxpayers money, then three rounds of stimulus checks would be

to sway the voters, and was allowed to happen with no oversight from the Governor’s Office’ is a correct apprehension of the issue. She is out of line. This requires a report to the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, and the Foreign Secretary.

If we are doing so well, is a stimulus necessary?

This is a booming economy and we have people coming in from the US, UK, Europe, and Canada, and just doing so well while others are not. Reports are that they are ‘falling behind”. There is indeed a ‘falling away” of an earthly and secular nature because people are struggling to pay bills and to make ends meet.

Governors are appointed to be part of the end result of the political process and ensure that British interests are secured when a new government is in office.

Will Her Excellency resign should the PDM Opposition prevail at the polls in the upcoming general elections? Can they work with her?

She has created a “real political melee and a constitutional crisis by showing her camaraderie and collegiality with the Premier and his ministers”. In recent times, the Office of the Governor has never been so blatant in “stepping in to show favour to the preferred security guard of their own interests in these islands”.

It raises a number of questions about why this Governor wants to be so loud in her support of the governing party. Are they campaigning for the government? Are they showing their hand too early to prompt this kind of ‘visceral’ response to remarks made on the floor of Parliament?

justified and perhaps even $2000 per person on certain low-income thresholds.

People are suffering owing to global inflationary pressures so the stimulus is needed and not opposed. The Opposition Leader is quite correct and forthright in his remarks that the stimulus decision, opposed in 2020 on more salient grounds, is a double standard, designed to assist and collude with “the PNP Government to steal the next general election”

The responses from the Governor that “Assertions that my actions as Governor and that of the Deputy Governor and Attorney General have been unconstitutional are not only untrue but serve to undermine the integrity of our constitutional offices, which are tasked with upholding the principles of impartiality and good governance”, are simply not in any way credible but “water off a duck’s back”.

She has been properly called out by the leader of the Opposition and his feeling that it is ‘A move his party believes is designed

In so many cases it did not have to come to this. Governments of the TCI could have made sure that people working at the lower rungs of the civil service be guaranteed a certain minimum income.

The minimum wage is too low, resorts are making super-profits, withholding the legally required gratuity under this government and people are literally ‘catching hell’. Conditions are created to force a stimulus because people need it.

In fact, it should have come much earlier in the year than at the ‘eleventh hour’ when prices continue to soar and people continue to suffer, it is a ‘little too little and a little too late’.

The real issue

Governors are said to stay out of politics and political debate but of course, the ‘grown-ups in the Room’ really know better.

Can she really do that? Attack a parliamentarian in his forum as he speaks to represent his people? It cannot be so, the Leader of the Opposition had a right and a duty to ‘tell it like it is’ and enjoys an unparalleled absolute privilege in making his remarks.

She stepped into waters that were ‘not hers’ warranting an apology to the Leader of the Opposition and to the House of

Opposition leader, Hon Edwin Astwood

Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam

57 Illegals arrested near vessel landing in Bird Rock Area

The TCI Border recently apprehended 57 illegal migrants who landed on an unauthorised vessel in the Bird Rock area.

On November 14, Border Force officers responded to reports of

a suspicious vessel in Bird Rock. Upon arrival, they apprehended nine illegal migrants near the vessel. Further searches in the area, assisted by the Police Force’s drone unit, led to the discovery

Assembly for interfering with affairs of an entirely ‘Parliamentary’ nature.

Stimulus welcomed

How many of us keep looking at politics and not at how people live. The Christmas season is upon us, a few extra dollars in our pockets will go a long way.

I think the Premier is not that daft to think that people would just vote for him because he throws a few dollars in their direction. We will still vote him out, if need be. But at the end of the day, the money is welcomed.

“Funding” the stimulus

The Premier asserts, “The people of these Turks and Caicos Islands need, they are entitled, and they are due” support that will come from the Supplementary Appropriation Bill. He emphasised that the bill is “cost neutral” and does not necessitate additional funding beyond existing fiscal resources.”

None of these remarks are at issue because it is a consensus in the islands that the people ‘need’ and are ‘entitled’ to the stimulus; some kind of relief from high prices and the like. Now the ‘costing’ of the stimulus bill is at issue and why it is ‘cost neutral’ as he asserts, needs to be proven. While on that topic, can the Hon Premier assert with equal confidence that the gift of $13m to Club Med, is ‘cost neutral’, absolutely needed, and trumps, the need to make an earlier and greater stimulus roll-out?

Given Ministerial salaries, the ‘largesse’ of $650,000 per annum to the Premier or $3,250,000 over the next five years and the unexplained ‘Gift’ to Club Med, it is possible that the Turks & Caicos Government could have given the people who need it most, Stimulus cheques of $2,000 or $3,000 much earlier than now and on the eve of elections.

Where do priorities lie?

In light of the stimulus debate in the House of Assembly it was revealed that the Small Business Programme (the

of an additional 48 individuals nearby.

In total, the 57 apprehended individuals included 45 males— two of whom were minors—and 12 females, which also included

MSME Project) at INVESTTCI, had so dwindled that a further $1m was needed for the MSME project.

Your spending and budgeting as a government can show where “your heart is”. There is no way that small business development should be so under-budgeted and ill-prepared. It is a pity that when Her Excellency stepped out of her place to target the leader of the Opposition that she did not comment on this most vital issue.

How is it that small Business Development in the TCI falls under $5m? Why is this not a vital and important issue in the eyes of the Government?

Astwood and his party are wrong

I concur with Her Excellency, Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam. Honourable—or rather, DisHonourable—Astwood and his party are wrong.

Their baseless and disingenuous accusations seek only to lead the people astray and undermine the integrity of our constitutional offices, which are committed to impartial governance.

Astwood’s claims reflect desperation, a lack of a solid platform, and a reactionary approach rather than actionoriented leadership. This divisive rhetoric highlights their unfitness to lead and their inability to present meaningful solutions for the nation. Instead, they resort to inflammatory tactics that weaken trust in our institutions and prove they are not ready to govern effectively.

Its own worst enemy

Aside from the assertions by Mr Astwood about a PNP-UK conspiracy to “steal” the upcoming election being absolutely ridiculous, there is no need for the PNP to “steal” the election because the PDM is simply giving it away!

With the election deadline just over the horizon, the PDM has yet to present to the electorate any kind of a platform to indicate how they would administer the country if they were elected to form the next government.

The country’s infrastructure is crumbling around us, and yet the PDM

two minors. All are believed to be Haitian nationals. The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force has secured the vessel.

The public is reminded that harbouring or facilitating the

has not put forth any proposals as to how they would deal with the deteriorating roads, the declining quality of healthcare, the uncontrolled immigration and the inability of our police force to make any meaningful dent in the level of crime on our streets.

If the PDM is to have even a slight chance of forming the next government, it is imperative that they convince the voters that their time in power would not be a repeat of their previous term of almost total inactivity under the “leadership” of Sharlene Cartwright.

Regardless of the very weak minority position the PDM now holds, any opposition party that hopes to form a future government has to do more than simply criticise the actions of the current Government – they absolutely must offer the voters a concrete plan to address the issues now facing the country, and in this regard the PDM is a total failure, highlighted by them not leading a concerted fight against the PNP granting permission to an outside firm to come in and “highjack” our water sports industry.

As for Mr Astwood’s complaint about the recent cost of living subsidies being granted to all Turks Islanders having been timed so closely to the election, he should stop whining and accept what is a wellknown fact of political activity almost everywhere.

Astwood must go

Astwood should be replaced when that’s possible. He can’t understand what is going on. DDS, like everybody, makes judgement errors. But she’s not a complete idiot. She’s done a brilliant job with the Americans.

Role of the Governor

There is a ‘firestorm’ over the stimulus rollout and a breakdown on what is an acceptable standard for the Office of the Governor to take a step into matters which are political or “Gubernatorial”.

One cannot fault the Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood in pointing out that in 2020 when then Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson wanted to roll out a stimulus after Covid-19 and two hurricanes, the then Governor said no!

Four years later, in the absence of any epidemic or ‘inclement weather’ the Fall

entry of illegal migrants is a serious criminal offence under the Immigration Ordinance. Penalties for such actions can reach up to $20,000 in fines and up to four years of imprisonment.

of 2024, the Governor’s Office is now saying ‘yes”. It is a ‘double standard and issue’ that is entirely indefensible. In his press release, former PDM Member of Parliament for West Road, Grand Turk, and Former House of Assembly Speaker, firebrand the Hon Dwayne Taylor, with ‘delicate prescience,’ called for the Governor’s removal.

This is not without precedent or merit. In the 1980s and 1990s the two major Parties in the TCI, PDM and PNP called for the removal of various Governors when those Governors crossed the line of ‘proper’ gubernatorial behaviour and the “Political Divide”! After her most recent remarks, attacking the Official leader of the Opposition, the Hon Edwin Taylor, and delving into issues that are ‘indelibly political’, Her Excellency has taken on a mantle which is not ‘hers’ nor within her ‘gift’’.

If this is her perceived role then Her Excellency is entirely “misconceived” in her thinking and she is in need of a reset. These Islands are approaching a new era of governance where there are clear departures from the constitutional order and system since 2012 to somehow empower the new Government.

Ministers and Politicians generally want to be ‘consequential’ and they cannot have Governors taking public positions on areas that fall entirely under the Minister of Finance. The same applies to the Leader of the official Opposition and his remarks on the floor of parliament. This is an overstep and an overreach. Further, it dismisses the role, image and so-called leadership of the Premier as he is indeed Minister of Finance and should be able to ‘acquit himself well’ on this issue of the rationale for the stimulus as it is matters related to his ministerial portfolio entirely.

The Premier missed an opportunity to be ‘an elder statesman’ by declining to put the Governor in her place. The only choice the Premier had after the Governor “Went after the leader of the PDM Opposition”, was to tell her to “stand down”.

This was not her role but that of the sitting Minister of Finance who carries oversight over areas purely related to “Finance”. Sounds bizarre but sometimes ‘you have to protect your political opponent to sustain the ascendency’ of your own office as Premier.

The Premier by his silence is diminished thereby as it is now perceived that Her Excellency is fighting his battles for him. The notion of constitutional advance must mean something.

TCI tightens financial transparency amidst privacy concerns

The House of Assembly of the Turks and Caicos Islands has taken a significant step towards enhancing financial transparency by passing the Companies Amendment Bill 2024 and the Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill 2024.

These bills aim to establish a publicly accessible beneficial ownership register, a move that seeks to strike a balance between global demands for transparency and the constitutional right to privacy.

Attorney General, Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, presented the bills to the House of Assembly on Thursday, November 14, 2024, emphasising their alignment with international standards while addressing concerns about potential misuse.

“The proposals...are rooted in the global movement toward greater transparency,” she stated. “However, we have instituted a ‘legitimate interest test’ to avoid any kind of fishing expedition in terms of balancing the constitutionally protected right to privacy.”

The bills received support from both sides of the House, with the Leader of the Opposition, Edwin Astwood, expressing his concerns about the increasing regulatory burden on the financial services

sector.

“For the past 10 years...we have just seen regulations after regulation,” he remarked. “I tend to wonder, is it the bigger countries keeping out the little guys as being competitors?”

Akierra Missick, Member for Leeward & Long Bay, supported the bills while highlighting the need to adapt to evolving criminal tactics.

“The criminals are getting smarter, they’re getting faster, they’re better funded,” she warned.

“We need to be able to react quickly to ensure that our Beautiful by Nature Island is not a magnet for that sort of behaviour.”

The Attorney General concluded the debate by thanking the House for their support and acknowledging the concerns raised.

She reassured the members that the government is committed to upholding international standards while safeguarding the jurisdiction’s competitiveness and individual privacy rights.

The passage of these bills marks a crucial juncture in the Turks and Caicos Islands’ ongoing efforts to navigate the complexities of global financial regulations while preserving its reputation as a reputable financial centre.

The implementation of the

beneficial ownership register, with its built-in safeguards, is expected to bolster the islands’ commitment to transparency and combat financial crime.

However, the Parliamentary debated underscores the challenges faced by small jurisdictions in balancing international obligations with domestic concerns.

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE FINANCIAL SECTOR

The Companies Amendment Bill and the Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill have several implications for the Turks and Caicos Islands’ financial sector including:

Increased Transparency: The establishment of a publicly

accessible beneficial ownership register aims to enhance transparency within the financial sector.

This move aligns the jurisdiction with international standards and helps combat illicit financial activities such as money laundering and tax evasion.

Balancing Privacy Concerns: While promoting transparency, the bills also seek to address concerns about individual privacy rights. The “legitimate interest test” aims to strike a balance by ensuring that access to beneficial ownership information is granted only to those with a valid reason, preventing potential misuse.

Impact on Competitiveness: Concerns were raised during the

debate about the potential impact of increased regulations on the jurisdiction’s competitiveness.

The bills aim to streamline requirements for companies and limited partnerships, but the ongoing challenge is to ensure that the regulatory burden does not stifle economic activity.

Adapting to Global Standards:

The bills reflect the Turks and Caicos Islands’ commitment to adapting to evolving global standards in financial transparency and regulation. This proactive approach is crucial for maintaining the jurisdiction’s reputation as a reputable financial centre.

Safeguarding Reputation: By implementing measures to combat financial crime and enhance transparency, the bills help safeguard the Turks and Caicos Islands’ reputation as a jurisdiction committed to responsible financial practices. This is essential for attracting legitimate businesses and investments.

Overall, the implications of these bills are complex and multifaceted.

However, they represent a significant thrust towards greater transparency and international compliance while navigating the challenges of balancing privacy concerns and maintaining economic competitiveness.

‘Tax haven’ narrative challenged with new financial transparency measures

The Turks and Caicos Islands is taking a proactive stance against the persistent narrative that paints Overseas Territories as tax havens.

Attorney General, Hon Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, while presenting the Companies Amendment Bill 2024 and the Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill 2024, emphasised the jurisdiction’s commitment to combating financial crime and adhering to international standards.

“There is a kind of narrative that is always portrayed toward the overseas territories and jurisdictions in our Caribbean region, as if we are...a word that sounds like heaven, but without the E, and that is not who we are,” she asserted.

The bills, passed by the House of Assembly, aim to establish a publicly accessible beneficial ownership register, striking a balance between transparency and

with standards and actively participating in international forums to “change the narrative” about their financial sectors.

“We seem to always be the target,” she noted, emphasising the need for a balanced approach that ensures transparency without compromising individual privacy or the jurisdiction’s competitiveness.

The Attorney General’s remarks underscore a broader push by Overseas Territories to challenge stereotypes and assert their commitment to responsible financial practices.

While concerns about regulatory burdens and potential impacts on the financial services sector were raised during the debate, the passage of these bills signals a determined effort to uphold transparency and combat financial crime while preserving the jurisdiction’s reputation and economic interests.

The Turks and Caicos Islands’ proactive approach serves as a model for other Overseas

Territories seeking to reshape the narrative surrounding their financial sectors and assert their commitment to international cooperation and responsible financial practices.

In 2022, the Turks and Caicos Islands came in fourth place out of 40 countries for the World’s Best tax havens, finding itself above Singapore and behind Jersey, a study revealed.

Anti-money laundering experts from Smartsearch.com extrapolated data from a number of destinations and evaluated factors such as taxation, monthly rent for accommodation, weather, safety, internet speed and bars and restaurants to find the best tax havens in the world.

The study revealed that the Turks and Caicos Islands scored 72.5 out of 100 based on safety, rent costs, weather and entertainment spots such as bars/restaurants.

Akierra Missick, Member for Leeward and Long Bay

Attorney General, Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles

TCI grapples with stray dog crisis: lawmakers pass stricter regulations

In response to growing concerns over public safety and the welfare of both residents and tourists, the Turks and Caicos Islands House of Assembly has taken decisive action.

On Thursday, November 14, lawmakers passed amendments to the Dogs Control Ordinance 2024.

Introduced by Hon Josephine Connolly, Minister for Tourism, Environment, Maritime, Culture, Heritage & Religious Affairs, this bill aims to curb the escalating stray dog issue that has been plaguing both residents and tourists, through stricter regulations on dog ownership, identification, and breeding, while empowering enforcement officers to address the problem more effectively.

The government’s efforts to control the dog population, which have included partnerships with NGOs and animal welfare organisations, have resulted in the spaying and neutering of 783 animals from 2023 to present.

However, the persistence of the problem has necessitated further legislative action.

In her presentation of the bill, Minister Connolly underscored the urgency of the situation, she said: “As we all know this, islands face a stray dog issue that affects not only our citizens but also the visitors to

our beautiful country.”

She further emphasised the government’s responsibility to act in the interest of the population, stating, “As Minister responsible with the responsibility for the Department of Agriculture, I would like to make an urgent plea to the general public to work with the government and my department in reducing continued nuisances and conflicts caused by these stray animals.”

However, the proposed amendments have sparked a contentious debate within the House.

Leader of the Opposition, Hon Edwin Astwood, while acknowledging the

need for control, expressed concerns about the bill’s potential impact on underprivileged dog owners.

“I do wholeheartedly support the need to control the stray dog population. But when I look at the fines here, or the timing, will you give our people time to get their affairs with their animals in order?” he questioned.

Astwood further argued for leniency in the enforcement of the proposed regulations, advocating for a grace period to allow dog owners to comply with the new requirements.

On the other hand, Hon Akierra

and Religious Affairs

Missick, Elected Member for Leeward and Long Bay, voiced strong support for the amendments.

Drawing from her personal experiences and the concerns of her constituents, she emphasised the need for responsible dog ownership.

“We have to be responsible citizens. We have to be responsible residents, and we just have to be responsible neighbours,” she asserted. Missick also highlighted the importance of striking a balance between public safety and animal welfare.

Hon Randy Howell, Elected

Member for Blue Hills, echoed Missick’s sentiments, citing instances of dog attacks and the necessity of ensuring public safety.

“This bill demonstrates our government’s commitment to improving public safety and environmental health in the Turks and Caicos Islands,” he stated.

The debate also witnessed passionate contributions from other members, including Hon. Matthew Stubbs, Member of Parliament for the Bight, who recounted personal experiences with stray dogs and underscored the urgency of addressing the issue.

The amendments to the Dogs Control Ordinance 2024, will introduce stricter regulations on dog ownership, identification, and breeding.

They will also empower enforcement officers with greater authority to address the stray dog problem.

However, the debate in the House of Assembly highlights the complexities and challenges involved in balancing public safety concerns with the rights and responsibilities of dog owners. The Turks and Caicos Islands, like many other communities around the world, continue to grapple with the multifaceted issue of stray dog management.

Missick bailed $15k ahead of retrial in couple’s fatal accident

BY DELANA ISLES

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has filed fresh charges against 46-yearold Jermaine Missick accused of causing the deaths of Martin Field Jr 33, and 26-year-old Correl Glinton in 2016.

The DPP refiled the charges on November 13, 2024, on November 18, the Long Bay resident appeared in the Magistrate Court and was placed on $15,000 bail.

Missick will appear in the Supreme Court on January 10, 2025, for a Sufficiency Hearing before his retrial.

Missick was first tried and convicted of two charges of causing death by dangerous driving on March 27, 2019, before Justice Tanya Lobban-Jackson. He was placed on $20,000 bail when he was first arrested.

The prosecution’s case was circumstantial, relying on evidence such as the appellant’s alleged excessive speed, crossing the

centre line, smelling of alcohol, and being aggressive at the scene.

The defence argued that Missick was travelling at a reasonable speed and tried to avoid an unlit object on the road.

He was subsequently sentenced to three years on each charge, with the sentences to run as one.

He was also suspended from driving for 18 months, with the suspension to become effective

upon his release. Missick subsequently appealed his sentence and conviction, raising issues with the admissibility and lack of proper judicial directions regarding certain evidence, such as his post-offence conduct, the refusal of a blood sample, and the potentially biased testimony of the deceased rider’s father regarding speed.

On November 26, 2020, having

considered the submissions made by Missick’s attorney, the Court of Appeal ordered a retrial.

The Court found merit in the grounds raised, concluding that inconsistencies and misdirections rendered the guilty verdict unreasonable. The proviso was not applied as a substantial miscarriage of justice had occurred. The appeal was allowed, the conviction was quashed, and a new trial was

ordered in the interest of justice.

In the late evening of September 8, 2016, an accident occurred on the South Dock Road, Providenciales between a Nissan truck and a motor scooter on which there was a pillion rider.

Missick – a resident of Long Bay - was driving the Nissan Titan pick-up truck in a south-westerly direction along the South Dock highway. The motor scooter was travelling in the opposite direction when the collision occurred. Both the rider and the pillion rider were seriously injured and succumbed to their injuries at the scene of the accident.

The couple’s bodies were pitched from the motor scooter into nearby bushes, with the driver of the truck suffering minor injuries. There were no eyewitnesses to the accident.

Field, originally from Barbados, worked at Ports of Call and Glinton, originally from Grand Turk, was a pastry chef at the Grace Bay Resorts before their tragic deaths.

Martin Field Jr – deceased Correll Glinton – deceased Jermaine Missick – accused

Stray dogs in Blue Hills, Providenciales

Hon Josephine Connolly, Minister for Tourism, Environment, Maritime, Culture, Heritage

TCI maintains position as top performing premium class destination

The Turks and Caicos Islands has maintained its position as the top performing Premium Class destination in the Caribbean for 2024, with a +35 per cent growth in its market share and together with Aruba and Puerto Rico showed the most growth in this niche.

These three islands collectively accounted for almost 15 per cent of all premium class arrivals according to a Travels Trends and Outlook report from Forward Keys.

The Turks and Caicos Islands is also among the top destinations showing growth in family travel to the Caribbean with an 18 per cent increase. The report said that family travel was one of the key drivers in

Minister of Tourism, the Hon Josephine Connolly said the report shows that the Turks and Caicos Islands’ brand as a luxury destination remains strong.

ISTCI and CHHS reclaim first place at Mathematics Jeopardy Competition

Earlier this month, students from both public and private primary and secondary schools across the Turks and Caicos Islands showcased their mathematical abilities at the 3rd Annual National Mathematics Jeopardy Competition.

The event, hosted by the Department and Ministry of Education in collaboration with key sponsors, brought together 20 schools for an exciting showdown of knowledge, strategy, and quick thinking on November 13 and 14.

In the Primary Division, thrilling performances were delivered, with Adelaide Oemler Primary School securing 3rd place, Best Institute finishing strong in 2nd place, and the International School of the Turks and Caicos claiming 1st place for the second consecutive year. The competition in this division was fierce, but the

champions exhibited exceptional teamwork and mathematical skills.

The contest for the top spots in the Secondary Division was particularly intense. A. Louise Garland Thomas High School earned 3rd place, Raymond Gardiner High School achieved 2nd place, and Clement Howell High School again claimed the championship, securing 1st place for the second consecutive year. The close margin between Raymond Gardiner High School and Clement Howell kept the audience on the edge of their seats, with both teams delivering stellar performances until the final round.

Commenting on the event, Hon Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, stated, “This Mathematics competition not only celebrated academic excellence but also highlighted the commitment of the Department and Ministry of

Education to fostering innovation, critical thinking, and problemsolving skills among students. With an electrifying atmosphere, nailbiting finishes, and exceptional displays of talent, this event was a true testament to the power of education and collaboration.”

The anticipation for the next instalment of this competition is already building, with plans underway to make it even more engaging and impactful.

The Department and Ministry of Education expressed gratitude to all sponsors who made the event possible, including Beaches Turks and Caicos, Global Capital, InterCaribbean Airways, Mayaa, Shea Café and Lounge, Caribbean Cruising, Business Solution, Sunny Foods, Quality Food World, Flow, Charlie’s Store, Casablanca Casino, and other contributors.

This growth, the report noted, was largely from the United States with John F Kennedy Airport in New York emerging as the top performing hub for Caribbean connectivity.

Airlines added +7% more seats to Caribbean destinations from JFK so far this year compared to the equivalent period in 2023 with the Turks and Caicos Islands registering an increase in arrivals of +40 percent.

The report noted that with the US elections, as of October 30th, the travel outlook between the USA and the Caribbean is expected to see a -13% drop due to Americans who wanted to be home to vote.

“The Turks and Caicos Islands offers a luxury product to affluent, multi-generational travellers looking for authentic, unique, safe and exclusive experiences. Our “Beautiful by Nature” multi-island destination offers all of that and more and from our hotel partners to our taxi drivers, everyone in the tourism industry is working hard to ensure that our visitors enjoy a luxury experience from the moment they step out of their aircraft. I am very proud of our performance this year,” the Minister said.

Overall, the Turks and Caicos Islands has seen double digit growth in air arrivals in 2024 at 19 per cent over that of 2023.

TCI

That drop was reflected in our September and October arrival numbers. September, a traditionally low month due to the hurricane season, saw 30,548, air arrivals, a -3.87 decrease from the corresponding period in 2023 while October registered 39,638 arrivals, a - 4.22 percent compared to the same period in 2023. Air arrivals are expected to pick up for the US thanksgiving holiday.

Cruise passengers for September and October were more optimistic with September seeing 81,297 passengers arriving at the Grand Turk Cruise Centre, a 71.99 percent increase compared to 2023, while October saw 110,329, a whopping 147.025 percent compared to the corresponding period in 2023.

to observe National

Day of Thanksgiving

On November 29, the Turks and Caicos Islands will celebrate its National Day of Thanksgiving, a day dedicated to uniting the people of the archipelago in gratitude and reflection.

This year’s services will be held at 9 AM at the New Testament Church of God in Providenciales and at the Methodist Church in Grand Turk.

The National Day of Thanksgiving is organised by the Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the Christian Council. This holiday is deeply rooted in the Islands’ strong Christian foundation, providing families with the opportunity to gather, express their thanks, and celebrate the blessings of the past year while

looking forward to the future.

In a statement from the Ministry, it was noted, “With reverence and hope, the event will honour God’s enduring grace and mercy upon our nation and its people, encouraging the community to pause, reflect, and renew our sense of faith and unity.”

This year’s services will feature two spiritually uplifting programs led by the Christian Council that reflect the gratitude and resilience of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The Ministry of Tourism recognises the importance of faith and shared values in strengthening communities and is pleased to partner again with the Christian Council.

All residents and visitors are invited to join the services.

the growth of Caribbean tourism with arrivals of family-sized groups (three-five passengers) to

Caribbean destinations showing an increase of +11 percent year to date.

ISTCI winners in the Primary division

CHHS wins in the Secondary division

National Heritage Month celebrated ‘Honouring the influences that shaped our identity’

This October, the Department of Culture and Heritage proudly celebrated National Heritage Month, paying tribute to the rich cultural tapestry and history of the Turks and Caicos Islands

The month-long celebrations were held under the theme “Honouring the influences that shaped our identity”, highlighting key heritage initiatives, honoured significant cultural contributions, and set the stage for future advancements in cultural preservation and promotion.

A JOYOUS SOUND: THE ANNUAL GOSPEL CONCERT

This year, the Annual Gospel Concert took place in Grand Turk, filling the air with songs of praise and bringing together the community in a joyful expression of faith and community. Gospel artists from across the islands performed at this heartfelt event, making it a memorable addition to the month’s festivities.

Engaging the Community: James E. Simmons Model Sailboat Races

Held at the Gazebo in Grand Turk, the James E. Simmons Model Sailboat Races brought family-friendly excitement to National Heritage Month with races featuring model sailboats, “anything that’ll float” events, and a slow bicycle race.

Attendees enjoyed spirited live entertainment by the V6 Band Boys, creating a day filled with fun, community bonding, and reflection on the Maritime traditions that continue to influence the islands. Special mention must be made of the contestants who would have attended and completed the boatbuilding summer workshop hosted by Mr. Curtis Simmons and the Ports Authority.

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: THE SECOND ANNUAL CULTURAL AWARDS

This year’s Cultural Awards recognized individuals who have significantly shaped and influenced the culture and heritage of the Turks and Caicos. Held at the Shore Club on October 17, the event honoured Mr. Lindsay “Zues” Butterfield, Mr. William “Bill- Archie” Clare,

Mr. Lorett “Lovey” Forbes, the Gospel Blitz, and Mr. Dennis “Foots” Penn.

The honorees, through their contributions to music, community service, and cultural advocacy, continue to shape the cultural identity of the islands. It was a night of tribute, pride, and a renewed commitment to cultural preservation.

ISLAND FISH FRY EVENTS AND HERITAGE DAY CELEBRATIONS

Island Fish Fry Events held throughout the month offered a taste of local flavours and a chance to experience traditional island cuisine in a lively atmosphere.

Heritage Day celebrations across the islands invited community members to reflect on the TCI’s shared heritage with cultural exhibitions, live entertainment, and activities celebrating the unique customs, art, and history that define TCI identity.

A MILESTONE IN

CULTURAL DIALOGUE: THE FIRST-EVER 2-DAY CULTURAL SYMPOSIUM

with several significant events

This year’s celebrations were highlighted by the inaugural Cultural Symposium, held at Beaches, Turks and Caicos, marking a milestone in cultural engagement for the nation.

The event, which took place at Beaches, Turks and Caicos, was a highlight of this year’s festivities and a significant turning point in the country’s cultural participation. In keeping with the theme for the month, the symposium promoted vital conversations on diversity, creativity, and cultural preservation in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

A distinguished panel of local influencers, including Mrs. Desiree Adams-Robinson, Ms. Alexa Cooper, Mrs. Stacy Cox, Mr. Benson Williams, Deputy Permanent Secretary Mrs. Lormeka Williams, Celebrity Chef Jago Moore, Deputy Permanent

Secretary Mr. Edgar Howell, Hon. Erwin J. Saunders, Hon. Akierra Missick, Mr. Avi Adams, and Mrs. Lavern Reynolds, joined keynote speaker Miss Marisa Benain from Kingston, Jamaica. Together, they discussed important cultural concerns and urged the Department to move forward with its plans to create an Artisan Registry to support and promote regional craftspeople and artists and a National Archives project to preserve historical records.

LOOKING AHEAD: NATIONAL ARCHIVE AND ARTISAN REGISTRY PROJECTS

As part of ongoing efforts to preserve and promote our heritage, the Department of Culture and Heritage has set ambitious goals for the upcoming year. The establishment of the Turks and

Caicos’ first National Archive is underway, a major project that will preserve and digitize historical records, providing secure access to TCI’s cultural legacy for future generations. Additionally, the forthcoming Artisan Registry will formally recognize local artisans, empowering them to connect with wider markets and contribute to the cultural economy.

A

MONTH TO REMEMBER

“National Heritage Month 2024 was an unforgettable celebration of our people, our traditions, and legacies that continue to shape our identity.”

Through events that honoured the past and set the course for future initiatives, the Department of Culture and Heritage reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and celebrating the culture and heritage of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Turks and Caicos Islands to be promoted as premier dive destination in 2024

Experience Turks and Caicos is set to position the Turks and Caicos Islands as the premier dive destination in the Caribbean at the Diving Equipment and Marketing Association (DEMA) show in Las Vegas.

The event will take place from November 18 to 23 in Las Vegas, USA. Candesha Mills, Product Development Manager, and Oshin Whyte, Tourism Statistics Specialist, will represent Experience Turks and Caicos at the annual show.

The agency will showcase the exceptional dive sites and businesses across the islands.

“Our goal is to engage travel advisors and agencies, as they play a crucial role in driving bookings by helping clients plan

unforgettable dive experiences in the Turks and Caicos Islands,” stated Experience Turks and Caicos this week.

The DEMA show is the premier international event for professionals in diving, travel, and action water sports, featuring the latest industry innovations and opportunities. This year, the show will bring together more than 500 exhibitors and offer over 300 educational sessions, attracting thousands of attendees from around the world. The trade-only event serves as a hub for industry experts to connect, discover new products, place orders, and engage in valuable learning opportunities.

“The Turks and Caicos Islands is a premier diving destination. With the third largest barrier

reef in the world, a 7,000-foot wall off the coast of Grand Turk, underwater shipwrecks, and diverse marine life, this destination has everything divers look for,” said Hon. Josephine Connolly, Minister of Tourism.

Diving is a billion-dollar industry that benefits various sectors within tourism, including accommodations, equipment suppliers, restaurants, training institutions, dive instructors, tour operators, and related services, Connolly added. “As we continue to develop our tourism product across all of our islands, diving is a niche that will be further developed and marketed to the benefit of all,” she stated.

Mills expressed her excitement for Experience Turks

and Caicos’ first attendance at DEMA: “I am thrilled that the Turks and Caicos Islands will once again be represented at this important diving sector show. It is time to put our destination on the map regarding diving, and this is just the beginning. I would like to thank Blue Waters Divers for joining our contingent, and we look forward to sharing brochures and promotional materials from other operators in the diving sector at the show.”

Experience Turks and Caicos will have a booth at DEMA, where journalists, travel advisors, vendors, diving enthusiasts, and other attendees interested in learning more about the destination can engage with the team and forge new partnerships.

Turks and Caicos Islands celebrated National Heritage Month 2024 under the theme: “Honouring the Influences That Shaped Our Identity”

Flower Girl under new management: a bittersweet bloom of transition

BY OLIVIA ROSE

The Turks and Caicos Islands is bidding a fond farewell to an era as the beloved gift shop, The Flower Girl, transitions to new ownership after 35 years of being a community staple.

The sale marks a poignant moment for both the original owner, Mrs Stephanie Duncanson, and the new proprietor, Mrs Olincia Missick-Robinson.

Mrs Duncanson, who has nurtured The Flower Girl since its inception, expressed a mix of emotions as she reflected on her decision to sell.

“I felt like I brought this child up, and now I have to release her,

so it was bittersweet, but it was time.”

The Flower Girl, located on Leeward Highway, Providenciales, has been more than just a business for Mrs Duncanson. It has been a sanctuary, a place where she not only provided exquisite floral arrangements and gifts but also offered a listening ear and counsel to many in the community.

“Lots of people come to the store, and I would end up counselling them,” she recalled. “A lot of counselling with men and some young people, lots of young women too, but mostly men, I felt that God placed these men in my care so that I could make a positive impact on their lives through his word.”

The decision to sell was not an easy one, as Mrs Duncanson wrestled with the idea of letting go of a business that had become so intertwined with her life and her faith.

However, she ultimately felt a sense of peace and release, believing that it was time to pass the torch to someone who could carry on the legacy of The Flower Girl.

Mrs Olincia Missick-Robinson, a well-known realtor and businesswoman, is stepping into this role with a deep sense of respect for the history of the shop and a vision for its future. “I think this is just, a really good fit and just right timing,” she expressed.

“Mrs Duncanson, she’s a great

person, great businesswoman, and has been a sort of a lifelong family friend of ours for quite some time.”

Mrs Missick-Robinson intends to honour the legacy of The Flower Girl while also modernizing the business and expanding its reach.

She plans to continue serving the local community while also re-establishing and growing relationships within the hospitality and tourism sectors.

“We will also definitely be looking to re-establish and to grow our relationships within the hospitality, hotel and Villa market as well,” she explained.

“We will be having a lot of unique gifts, offering also for persons that visit Turks and Caicos,

and appealing for that as well, our long-term plan is to open a second location.”

The transition of The Flower Girl is not merely a business transaction; it is a passing of the baton from one dedicated woman to another. It is a story of a legacy built on love, service, and a deep connection to the community.

As Mrs Duncanson steps into retirement, she leaves behind a legacy of warmth and generosity that will continue to bloom under Mrs Missick-Robinson’s care. The Flower Girl, with its roots firmly planted in the heart of the Turks and Caicos Islands, is poised to continue blossoming for years to come.

Mrs Stephanie Duncanson, former owner of The Flower Girl

The Flower Girl Gift Shop tastefully decorated for the Christmas holidays

Mrs Olincia Missick-Robinson, the new proprietor of the business

Mrs Stephanie Duncanson and her team set floral decor for a beach wedding in the Turks and Caicos Islands

Clifford Gardiner Airport welcomes first flight in 15 years

After a 15-year hiatus, the Clifford Gardiner Airport on North Caicos roared back to life on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, as Caicos Express Airways inaugurated its historic flight to the island.

This momentous occasion signified a turning point for North Caicos, promising renewed connectivity and economic opportunities for the island.

The inaugural flight, carrying government ministers and dignitaries, departed for the Clifford Gardiner International Airport amidst a wave of optimism and pride.

The enthusiasm of the Caicos Express pilots and staff, coupled with the joyful expressions of passengers, underscored the significance of this new chapter in the islands’ history.

Mr Garvey Missick, a member of the Board of Directors of the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority, delivered a heartfelt address, reflecting on the personal and communal significance of this achievement.

“It is an incredible honour to stand before you as a salt of the soil to celebrate this historic occasion,”

Mr Missick remarked, drawing a parallel between his early experiences working at the North Caicos airport and the current endeavour.

“This moment is not just about an inaugural flight; it’s about what it means for our communities and our future.”

Mr Missick emphasised the collaborative effort that led to this milestone, acknowledging

the instrumental roles of various stakeholders.

“This inaugural flight to the Clifford Gardiner International Airport is more than just a new service. It represents progress, opportunity, and the essential link that connects North and Middle Caicos to the world and beyond,” he stated.

Mr Elgar Jamal Thomas, Director of Operations for Caicos

Express, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the positive impact of improved airlift services on the lives of residents, particularly the elderly and those with medical needs. “This initiative is not just about connectivity; it’s about enhancing the quality of life for the residents,” he affirmed.

Hon Arlington Musgrove, Member of Parliament for North and Middle Caicos, delivered a rousing speech, underscoring the historical significance of the event.

“Today, as we come together at the Clifford Gardiner International Airport, we are here to celebrate this inaugural flight from Providenciales,” he declared.

“But, my fellow citizens, we know this is far more than that. This is a moment in time that signifies not just the resumption of our air services after years of dormancy, but a moment of unity, progress, and prosperity for these beloved twin islands.”

Mr Musgrove recounted his personal commitment to the development of the islands, emphasising the government’s pledge to restore and enhance

infrastructure and services.

“We have come a long way. We still got some ways to go,” he acknowledged while reiterating his dedication to the advancement of North and Middle Caicos.

Deputy Premier, Hon Jamell Robinson also addressed the gathering, expressing his enthusiasm for the project and commending the collaborative spirit that brought it to fruition. “This is the embodiment of what an aggressive person is because he is always pushing and pushing and pushing for the twin islands,” he remarked, referring to Mr Musgrove’s tireless advocacy for the islands.

The launch of Caicos Express Airways’ flights to North Caicos marks a turning point in the islands’ journey towards progress and prosperity.

It is a testament to the power of collaboration, vision, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of the community.

As the aircraft took to the skies, it carried with it the hopes and dreams of the people of North and Middle Caicos, ushering in a new era of connectivity.

Mr Garvey Missick, a member of the Board of Directors of the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (Photos: TCI Communications Directorate)

Hon Arlington Musgrove, Member of Parliament for North and Middle Caicos

Deputy Premier Hon Jamell Robinson

Clifford Gardiner Airport (formerly North Caicos Airport) welcomes visitors as the new Airport officially begins operations

The pilots of the historic flight

The Strand unveils a new level of luxury in Turks and Caicos

BY SHANICE LIGHTBOURNE

The Strand’s official opening adds significantly to luxury options in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Overlooking the sapphire blue waters of Cooper Jack Bay with dramatic vistas and an aweinspiring setting, the Strand is a hidden retreat complete with private residences, villas, and estates, a swimmable shoreline, destination dining, and crafted experiences specifically for reconnection.

On Wednesday, November 20, the developers, government ministers, the media, and other specially invited guests gathered to celebrate the momentous occasion at the resort.

The development features over 160 rooms, including suites and invilla residences, with a variety of configurations.

Top-tier estates will have 6-7 bedrooms, while options for residences will range from 4-5 and 5-6 bedroom luxury types to grand 6-bedroom options.

There will be 35 suites and an additional 27 suites in three blocks of 2-3 stories, some with rooftop terraces. Each suite may have a pool or plunge pool and can be sold as 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom, or individual suites.

The Strand is a full-ownership club, offering amenities like a restaurant, tennis and pickleball courts, and a marina with boat slips. The beach area has been recently developed, and each residence

features access to a private pocket beach. The residences include multiple configurations, catering to families with varying accommodations. The project is set to open to the public on December 12th.

John Fair, Managing Director, Developer, and Project Manager of the Strand mentions how helpful Samuel Been has been in this project.

“I’ll never forget, we were trying to get started. We were in planning, and working on our ODP. We were having a little bit of a struggle at the top of the government to get any attention and the Wednesday after the election, Hon Been walked into our office with Hon Knowles, introduced himself, and said, ‘I know about your project, but I want to hear more.”

“I’m here to help and it was like, it was such a breath of fresh air. I can’t even begin to tell you that he has been there from day one in every step of the way, standing by his word and hopefully, we try, have an endeavour to do the same, and have each other’s back and I appreciate it very much.”

Hon Samuel Been, elected Member for Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hills, explains the early development of the strand.

“I met Mr Sean Capron some time ago, who introduced me to Mr John Fair and Mr John Macdonald and they told me about this development, so they brought me up here to look at this piece of

land and he said, ‘we are going to put a number of expensive villas on the end and condominiums over here and over here we are going to have a lovely beach and even some property to sell. I think five lots’.

“I took a step back and I said, that would be a miracle. So we came further and we looked here, and this was nothing except rock. I mean, no beach at all, just rock and he said, this is where the beach is going to be. I said, what? I said that’s another miracle. So anyway, two miracles later, a lot of money, and a lot of hard work, I say to you this evening, welcome to the Strand. This, I say, being a miracle, can tell you that anything can happen and I’m happy to say, as I look around and I see right over here, another beautiful development and then this one, another beautiful development,” He stated

Deputy Premier, Hon Jamell Robinson shared stories between him and John regarding the completion of this project before the election date.

“John and I met to have a discussion about this particular project and one of the main things I asked him, I said, John, what is your timeline for completion?

He said, ‘Hon Robinson, we’re looking at October, November this year.’ I said, now, John, we’re entering an election year so you have to complete, it so we’ll be in a position to cut the ribbon before an election is called. So said, so done. So we appreciate you, John, for delivering on your end of the deal.

And I make that note, and why this is important because this is actually the first project under the Charles Washington Misickled administration that went from concept, ground-breaking, to ribbon-cutting before the election date,” He concluded.

Hon Josephine Connolly noted that the “grand opening of the Strand Development in our beautiful Turks and Caicos Islands. Today, we gather to celebrate the realization of a vision that epitomizes luxury, innovation, and the remarkable potential of our islands. The Strand represents more than just a new development.

“It embodies our commitment to excellence, sustainability, and the continued growth of our tourism industry. This project is a testament to what can be achieved when vision, passion, and collaboration come together. I would like to

extend my heartfelt congratulations and sincere gratitude to everyone, including your team, John.”

Deputy Governor, HE Anya Williams shared remarks about the ground-breaking of the Strand.

“I say that because I can remember just over two years ago, I believe we were on the hill at a spot I was trying to pick out this afternoon. I think it was somewhere over there and we were in a little area they built called an observatory to overlook this area where they were going to build this magnificent property and I remember them saying, okay, now we’re going to do the groundbreaking and I looked around, and I was saying, where do you think you’re going to take us? Because I didn’t see any flat land at that point and we struggled to move along some rocks and define a little patch of sand that we could dig to say that that was for the ground-breaking and so to be here this afternoon is certainly magnificent to see how this project has turned into a reality.” She concludes

The evening concluded with giving thanks to the various parties involved in making the Strand possible.

Kindness challenge launched to celebrate Universal Children’s Day

On Wednesday, November 20, the Department of Social Development and Welfare celebrated Universal Children’s Day, also known as the World Day of Prayer and Action for Children.

The Turks and Caicos Islands joined the global community in commemorating this significant day, centred on the theme: “Investing in Our Future Means Investing in Our Children.”

Universal Children’s Day, established by the United Nations Children’s Fund, serves as a reminder of the vital roles that parents, educators, communities, and all stakeholders play in

protecting and promoting the rights of children. It emphasises the importance of collaboration in fostering the social development and emotional well-being of children and their families.

In honour of this special occasion, the Department launched a Kindness Challenge across public schools in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The challenge aims to highlight students who have demonstrated exceptional acts of kindness throughout the year, recognizing and celebrating their positive contributions to their school communities.

The initiative includes

creating short video snippets that showcase the reasons behind each student’s selection. These stories will be shared on social media platforms, allowing the public to witness and celebrate these inspiring acts of kindness.

“By promoting kindness in schools, we hope to foster a culture of compassion, empathy, and positive relationships that will benefit individual students, strengthen the overall school environment, and create a positive ripple effect throughout the broader community,” the Department said.

The Honourable Minister responsible for Social

Development and Welfare, Honourable Otis Morris, remarked,

“Children are the foundation of our future. By investing in and nurturing their education, well-being, and opportunities, we are not only securing a more prosperous tomorrow for them but also for our nation as a whole.

This theme serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility as Turks and Caicos Islanders to nurture, protect, and empower the next generation.”

The Department of Social Development and Welfare expressed that the initiative is particularly timely, aligning

with the country’s upcoming Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons. Seasons, which provide the ideal setting for spreading messages of love, kindness, and unity.

The department looks forward to engaging students, educators, and the wider community in this meaningful challenge as they work together to build a promising and compassionate future for the children of TCI.

“We challenge the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands to come together, celebrate, and inspire acts of kindness across our nation.”

The official ribbon-cutting event took place on Wednesday

Our Miss Universe Turks and Caicos – Ms Raynae Myers Beauty, brains and a change maker

INTRODUCTION

After being on hiatus for ten years, the Miss Universe Turks and Caicos Pageant was held in July 2024 and the winner was 23-yearold Miss Raynae Myers who beat seven other contestants. Raynae is originally from the beautiful island of Grand Turk and graduated from Helena J Robinson High School in 2018.

I do not personally know Raynae but from the time she won the pageant, I have been following her. Because of her conduct and presentation on social media, I decided to watch the Miss Universe Pageant, something I have not done for more than 30 years.

A BEAUTY

Raynae is a beautiful young lady. She is not only beautiful on the outside, but she also is beautiful on the inside, being

BY DREXWELL SEYMOUR

Drexwell Seymour is a certified public accountant and is the managing partner for HLB TCI. His favourite hobby, however, is writing. He has a personal website, www.drexwellseymour. com, where all of his writings are posted. He also has a YouTube channel where you can find inspirational videos. Drexwell has a BA in Accounting and an MBA in Finance.

kind, well-mannered, helpful and compassionate. Her mother Lashena Simmons did a great job in raising this beautiful young lady.

A UNIVERSITY GRADUATE

Raynae is a very smart individual and had the opportunity to attend University in the United Kingdom. In 2023, she graduated from the University of Manchester with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law

and Politics. She works in the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

AN ADVOCATE AGAINST GUN VIOLENCE

Unfortunately, Raynae lost her brother to gun violence, a tragedy that has caused so much pain and grief to their family and friends. The case is still unresolved. However, out of this incident, Raynae has become an advocate

against gun violence and is using her voice for a change and to bring about awareness.

AN INSPIRER

Being a victim of bullying, and having overcome bullying, Raynae founded an organisation called Fearlessly Authentic, a mentorship and sisterhood programme that inspires young women to embrace their true selves. She visits several schools in Turks and Caicos to inspire young people.

A PERSEVERE

This is not Raynae’s first time in a beauty pageant. She entered the Summer Jam pageant when she was 14 and then she entered it again recently. Despite not winning, she did not give up and entered Miss Universe TCI. She did not let the negative remarks deter her from participating in the

pageant. In fact, it was the negative connotations that propelled her to persevere.

CONCLUSION

Raynae Myers represented the Turks and Caicos at the 73rd Miss Universe Pageant that was held in Mexico. She represented us well and we are so proud of her. She got the second-highest score in the costume pageant. She was also one of the winners of the masterclass exercise for best make-up. I personally think she should have been placed in the top ten, but it didn’t happen. However, she is still our Queen and has a great story to share and inspire others. Finally, I cannot end without thanking director Gabriella and the rest of the team for reintroducing Miss Universe TCI and for guiding, training and preparing Raynae for the Miss Universe Pageant.

Cultural and heritage protected and development zones

A path to national pride and economic growth

In a rapidly modernising world, preserving the cultural identity and heritage of our Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) is not just about nostalgia—it’s an economic and social imperative. The idea of Cultural and Heritage Protected and Development Zones, as mentioned by former Minister of Finance Hon. Ejay Saunders and former Deputy Premier Hon. Akierra Missick, presents a transformative opportunity to blend preservation with progress. These zones, offering special grants and subsidies to those building in local areas using traditional construction methods and materials, could catalyse homeownership, environmental stewardship, and national pride while driving significant economic benefits.

THE CASE FOR CULTURAL AND HERITAGE ZONES

1. PRESERVING NATIONAL IDENTITY:

By incentivizing the use of traditional designs, materials, and methods, these zones protect TCI’s architectural and cultural heritage. From salt raker-style homes to the unique community layouts in North and Middle Caicos, these areas reflect the spirit of our ancestors. Preserving such heritage ensures that future generations inherit not just land but the stories and essence of TCI’s history.

2. SOCIAL COHESION AND NATIONAL PRIDE:

Building communities that reflect TCI’s heritage fosters a deeper sense of belonging. These zones could host cultural hubs, where local art, music, and traditions are celebrated. Such spaces can strengthen the social fabric, bringing communities together and cultivating pride in being Turks

BY ZHAVARGO JOLLY

and Caicos Islanders.

3. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT:

Traditional building methods are often more sustainable. Local materials, such as limestone and wood, have a smaller carbon footprint compared to imported materials. Additionally, green

building techniques—like using rainwater catchment systems and natural cooling designs— align with Turks and Caicos environmental goals.

4. ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT THROUGH HOMEOWNERSHIP:

Homeownership remains a cornerstone of economic stability and wealth building. Special grants and subsidies for locals could make housing more affordable, enabling more locals to own property. This not only fosters financial security but also reduces reliance on foreign investors to drive the housing market, keeping wealth within our local communities.

ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF HERITAGE DEVELOPMENT

1. STIMULATING LOCAL CONSTRUCTION

INDUSTRY:

Subsidies and grants for local builders encourage growth in the construction industry. This creates jobs and supports small businesses specializing in traditional crafts, such as carpentry, masonry, and thatching.

2. BOOSTING TOURISM:

Heritage zones can become tourist attractions, offering visitors an authentic cultural experience. These areas could host festivals, tours, and exhibitions, adding another dimension to TCI’s tourism economy.

3. INCREASING PROPERTY VALUE:

Cultural and heritage zones often become highly desirable locations. This could increase property values over time, benefiting local

A prayer for the Turks and Caicos

God of all gods, Father to the fatherless, Protector to the weak, Mighty Warrior;

You are the great and awesome God in the assembly of your council, you keep a covenant of steadfast love with those who love you and keep your commandments, we come before You today, humbled by Your mercy and grace. You alone are creator, sustainer, blesser, holy, righteous, and just, and we acknowledge that we have sinned against You in thought, word, and deed.

We bow before You, ashamed and broken, for our sins are many and our guilt is great. As a people and as a nation, we have turned away from loving You with all our heart, soul, and mind. We have failed to love our neighbours as ourselves. We have pursued selfish ambitions, indulged in materialism, and neglected the poor, the broken, and the lost. We have not lived as You have commanded, nor have we believed fully in the power of Your Name.

KENYATTA E. LEWIS

Kenyatta Lewis is the pastor of Harvest Bible Chapel, a growing church committed to taking followers of Jesus deeper and going further in their faith. Besides loving, serving, and helping people he has watched the extended Director’s cut of the Lord of the Rings trilogy multiple times.

“O my God, I am ashamed and blush to lift my face to you, my God, for our iniquities have risen higher than our heads, and our guilt has mounted up to the heavens” (Ezra 9:6).

We confess that we have been unfaithful to You, choosing our own ways over Your perfect will. We have failed to honour You as a nation, and we have allowed divisions, greed, and apathy to creep into our hearts.

Yet, Lord, even in our unfaithfulness, You remain faithful. You have blessed this land with beauty, resources, and opportunity. You have preserved us

through storms and trials. You have extended Your hand of mercy and have given us time to repent. And so, Father, we come before You, pleading for Your forgiveness.

Forgive us, Lord, for not believing fully in Your Name. Forgive us for doubting Your power, Your promises, and Your love. Forgive us for not loving others as You have loved us, for withholding grace, and for failing to seek reconciliation and peace.

“To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him and have not obeyed the voice of the Lord our God by walking in his laws, which

he set before us by his servants the prophets” (Daniel 9:9-10).

Have mercy on us, O God, according to Your steadfast love. Blot out our transgressions and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Lord, we desire to turn back to You. We profess our love for You, our Creator and Redeemer. We proclaim today that we will love You with all our heart, soul, and strength, and we will love others as You have commanded. Teach us to walk humbly before You, to seek justice, and to show mercy. Empower us by Your Holy Spirit to live out Your ways in our homes,

our churches, and throughout our nation.

Let this be the cry of our hearts: “Now therefore, O our God, listen to the prayer of your servant and to his pleas for mercy, and for your own sake, O Lord, make your face to shine upon your sanctuary, which is desolate” (Daniel 9:17). Restore us, Lord. Revive our hearts and renew our nation. May we be a people who honour Your Name and live according to Your Word.

Lord, may Turks and Caicos become a light to the nations, a place where Your love is demonstrated and Your truth is proclaimed. May we be known as a people who walk in Your ways, bringing glory to Your Name. We love You, Lord, and we commit ourselves to doing things Your way. Guide us by Your wisdom, protect us by Your power, and draw us closer to You day by day. We ask all this in the Name of Jesus Christ, our Saviour and King. Amen.

Year by year: what every year of dating really means

If you’ve been with your partner for five years, congratulations— you’ve found someone who can tolerate your quirks and hasn’t run for the hills. If you’ve made it to 10 years, let’s be real: I know you’re probably a little miserable. But hey, I’m proud of you for sticking it out.

I won’t bother asking for the secret to happiness because, deep down, I suspect you’d trade it all for a life in Thailand_ you, in a treehouse villa overlooking the ocean, learning to surf under the guidance of a zen instructor with no chest-hair named Kai. But here’s the thing—15+ years is a testament to something truly special. It might not be treehousein-Thailand-level exciting, but it’s solid. And let’s be honest: you are still lucky to have found someone who equally puts up with you!

What does each year mean in a relationship? Here, I unlocked the code:

YEAR 1:

THE HONEYMOON YEAR

Everything is magical. You laugh

BY DAVIDSON LOUIS

Rachel Wolchin once said: “If we were meant to stay in one place, we’d have had roots instead of feet.” On this quest to self-discovery, TC Islander Davidson Louis vowed to travel, write, paint, laugh and forgive. Subsequently, he hopes to find himself and or, leave behind a few pieces of himself. Contact him at hello. octopen@tcinews.tc

at their jokes even when they’re terrible, and somehow, they think your morning breath smells like roses.

YEAR 2:

THE SETTLING IN YEAR –“SWEATPANTS ARE THE NEW SEXY”

You stop trying so hard. Friday nights are now Netflix marathons in mismatched PJs. “Let’s order pizza” is the love language. The spark’s still there, but now it involves seeing who can belch louder after dinner. You gained a little weight.

YEAR 3:

THE DISCOVERY YEAR –“OH, SO YOU’RE THAT PERSON”

You start noticing their quirks— and they notice yours. Their “cute snore” is now a thunderous roar, and their avocado obsession is officially a financial liability. Still, you’re in too deep to care much. You noticed they gained weight.

YEAR 4:

THE “ARE WE DOING THIS?” YEAR – “SERIOUS OR NAH?” The pressure kicks in. Friends start asking if you’re getting engaged, and your parents start

referring to them as “family.” Meanwhile, you’re just trying to decide if you should share a Netflix account. You also gained weight.

YEAR 5: THE COMFORT ZONE YEAR – “WHY DO WE EVEN GO OUT?”

Date nights? Overrated. You both know the couch is where it’s at. You’ve mastered the art of sitting in total silence together without it being weird. They’ve seen your weirdest habits, and shockingly, they’re still here. You accept their weight gained.

YEAR 6: THE GREAT DIVIDE –“FOREVER OR FORGET IT?”

It’s decision time. You either upgrade to matching bathrobes and couple’s Costco membership, or you start Googling “How to break up after six years without splitting the cat.” You know what I mean. You asked them to join

the gym.

YEAR 7:

THE MAGICAL MYSTERY YEAR – “SEVEN-YEAR ITCH?”

You’ve made it this far, but now every argument feels like a season finale of a soap opera. You’re still together, but only after an existential debate over pineapple on pizza.

YEAR 8+:

THE POWER COUPLE ERA – “WE’RE BASICALLY MARRIED, RIGHT?”

At this point, you’ve merged lives, finances, and possibly wardrobes. You have arguments about which IKEA shelf to buy, but deep down, you know they’re your person. You love each other, but the sex is no more. This is marriage. Yes, I know. It is not fun.

Care to share your opinion? louisedens@gmail or IG david. l2

A cry for a peaceful nation

Not many years ago, our beautiful by Nature, Turks and Caicos Islands were considered quiet, slow-living and relaxing. For a time when we slept with our windows wide open, doors unlocked and hearts not clouded up by the fear of crime. Turks and Caicos was once the country we grew up in, the country that we proudly call home, and still do. But today, it is so very different. Crime has infiltrated our neighbourhoods and ruptured the peace that we learnt to love.

We need to be asking ourselves, where is the real peaceful Nation we once knew, where is the community where we helped each other, the togetherness that held us together? Crime is not a number — it is a scar on the soul of our islands.

The question we must ask ourselves, can we get back to the Peaceful Turks and Caicos we once were? I say yes we can with the help of God. We can restore Turks and Caicos Islands to the country we remember, where children

BY RUTH ARIZA ALL ISLAND CANDIDATE PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC MOVEMENT

could play freely in the streets, and neighbourhoods, and parents can maintain a peace-of-mind at home knowing that their children are safe.

Restoration must start with us recognizing and pointing out what brought us to this point, how did we really end up here. Recognizing our challenges (in some cases poverty, unemployment, also the movement

of guns and drugs) is step one. The challenges we are facing did not developed overnight, and will not go away overnight. However, as a Nation, as a people, we can be the change we want to see.

The second point is about how we need to fortify our community bases, because, crime exist where opportunities are limited. As we will notice, crime exist mainly amongst our youth, our young men, we must find more ways to invest in our young people; with education, job training and mentoring, just to name a few.

We must create spaces in our community to make our youth feel valued and supported, where they see a future built on hope, not despair.

My third point is unity. Our community uniting is key. We used to be a country where you were family with your neighbours, we looked out for each other like family. We need to revive that spirit. We must create more neighbourhood watches where we

must report anything or activity that seeks to take away our peace, we must report anything or persons that look suspicious and lend support to one another — we must restore our faith in citizens and law enforcement where we seek to achieve one common goal and that is to protect our communities, protect our families, and together, protect our Nation.

Lastly, we cannot sit back and be silent, we need to hold our leaders accountable, the Governor, and the Government, I believe they are not doing enough nor investing enough in putting a stop to crime and helping to save the lives of the Youth of this Nation. At this point in our Nation, we do not need another Press Release by our Leaders, speeches, speeches and more speeches, we need action and we need it now, now is the time to put a stop to crime, we do not want to see another lifeless body lying on the streets in a puddle of blood, how long will the blood of

our young men cry out from the ground.

We must also realise that we must all do our part—and we know that this is not solely a police job. We must do our part by mentoring a young one at risk, lobbying for better laws or just checking up on someone struggling; we all have an input when it comes to taking back our peace.

That calm, and civil country we were blessed with, and the place we call home, is not gone. It waits for us to step into restoring that version of home. It is only by coming together as one people, united by our shared commitment to making our Islands safer that we will restore the peace and calm that has been absent for too long. By creating a better future for tomorrow’s generations, we will give the memory of the Turks and Caicos Islands they deserve. May God continue to bless these beautiful by Nature Turks and Caicos Islands.

“Your Future, Our Priority”

The advantages and disadvantages of short and long term rentals

Long term rentals are a real problem in the Islands, we all know someone who is looking for an apartment to rent, and the prices are frankly expensive. Some will rightly or wrongly blame the many short term rental apartments or villas. But if you are a homeowner and want to rent, and you are wondering whether it is better to rent short term or long term, I hope this article will help you see things more clearly.

Owning a rental property comes with several important decisions, in addition to those related to the rental of our properties. Before purchasing or building a property, you must consider the options available to you according to the type of property you are interested in.

First, you must always keep in mind the location of your property. If you prefer to offer short-term rental, while your property is located in a place where there are no attractions nearby, this may not be the best option for you.

Short term advantages:

While we would tend to tell you that short-term rentals are more harmful to your property, this is not the case! Since people are only there for a short period of time and they are visiting the surroundings, they do not necessarily spend their time inside and could only spend

COLUMN DENIS BELANGER

Denis Belanger is a landscaper, he trained in Canada in landscape architecture and studied the Art of Garden in Italy. He arrived in the TCI in 2008, where he first worked for a local company before opening his landscaping company. He then had a personal experience with Property Management, and his love and passion for his new experience gave him the drive to open his company Turks & Caicos Villas and Gardens

the night. The profit generated by short-term rentals is much higher than that of other types of rentals… in fact, you could notice a difference of 25% + in annual return.

Short-term rentals should be seen as if you were an entrepreneur. Indeed, you must be able to find people to rent your property, which involves using marketing tactics, managing finances, housekeeping, gardeners… but also a huge growth opportunity when you are able to fill your time slots. In addition, by being an owner, there

is a possibility of resale on the rise when you are ready to pass the torch to the next one!

Short term disadvantages: You must always, without exception, ensure that your accommodation is in perfect condition. When renting out shortterm, you must always make sure that the place is impeccable before the next tenant moves in. Remember that with the internet, it is very easy to leave bad comments on an establishment, we would not want to ruin its reputation.

You must be familiar with all online rental platforms in order to ensure a return on your investment: we want people to rent! Which sometimes requires more work and therefore more investment of time on your part. Of course, you must have time to devote to it. The management of the establishment, the housekeeping, gardening, pool maintenance, the accounting, the rental, the administration, etc. So you always have to make sure that everything will be done well, which is sometimes more difficult if it is not your main source of income.

Renting a property for a short period requires you to furnish it in accordance with the regulations

in force. You must therefore fully equip it, and potentially renew worn or damaged items, also, as in any type of rental, you must maintain the property offered in order to guarantee its attractiveness. The wear and tear of a property offered for seasonal rental is often faster than that of a property rented for the long term, due to the large number of tenants who follow one another. Finally, renting for seasonal rentals inexorably requires time or money. Handing over keys, changing linen, cleaning the property after each tenant... all these tasks will require a certain personal investment or

Leadership beyond Opposition

Is the role of the Opposition merely to contest, or is it to contribute constructively to the nation’s progress?

Honourable Edwin Astwood, as the Leader of the Opposition in the Turks and Caicos Islands, holds a position of significant influence and responsibility. Being the opposition leader doesn’t mean opposing everything for the sake of opposing it. With everything that’s been happening lately, it’s clear we need to work together more. It’s about putting our people’s wellbeing first, not letting politics get in the way.

A perfect example of protesting for the sake of protesting is the debate surrounding the Asylum Bill. It has been noted that during the discussion of this critical legislation, Honourable Astwood was present in the House of Assembly but did not enter the chamber to voice his concerns. Later, he protested the bill, despite the PDM Appointed Member, Honourable Alvin Garland, raising no objections and voting in favour of it. This feels like a missed chance to really dive into an issue that has a big impact on both our humanitarian responsibilities and our legal system.

I firmly believe that active participation in legislative debates is essential. By voicing concerns and proposing amendments during the legislative process, the opposition can influence outcomes to better reflect our society’s diverse perspectives out of this

process, only to oppose afterward diminishes the potential impact and may appear as opposition for its own sake rather than for the benefit of the people. It saddens me that Hon. Astwood has prioritised political gain, party loyalty, and the pursuit of power over basic principles of morality, fairness, and empathy.

Another pressing issue is the proposed economic relief of one thousand dollars to the Turks and Caicos Islands people. The world is still grappling with the longterm effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Immediate financial assistance is crucial for TCI families. Opposition to this relief has been framed around the timing of the election cycle. However, the next general election is not constitutionally due until May 2025. Delaying much-needed assistance based on electoral timing overlooks the urgent needs of our people.

PDM’s long-standing resistance to giving our people a stimulus makes me believe that Ebenezer Scrooge wasn’t as stingy with money after all. Why is it so hard to extend a hand to the very citizens who are the backbone of our nation? Work permit holders received financial support during the height of the pandemic, yet our people are being told to wait— again. Why? If not now, when? It’s mindboggling that PDM’s would be so eager and willing to abandon the ethical responsibility to serve all constituents and instead focus

BY AUDLEY ASTWOOD

solely on winning at any cost.

We all remember that during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the previous PDM administration, of which Hon. Astwood was a part, provided financial aid primarily to work permit holders, leaving many of our people feeling neglected. This approach raised concerns about the prioritisation of noncitizens over the very people who entrusted their leaders with governance. Ultimately, it shows that Hon. Astwood has prioritised political gain, party loyalty, and the pursuit of power over basic principles of morality, fairness, and empathy. Current and future relief efforts must focus on supporting Turks and Caicos Islanders first, ensuring that policies benefit our own communities.

Many families are struggling to keep up with rising costs, it’s frustrating to see the opposition more focused on blocking relief efforts than coming up with real

The advantages and disadvantages of short and ...

will represent a cost if you wish to delegate them.

LONG-TERM RENTAL

ADVANTAGES:

Of course: peace of mind. Indeed, by offering long-term rental, you can spend many years without worrying about finding new tenants.

In the same vein, who is a long-term tenant, says repayment of your mortgage in the long term. You therefore do not have to worry about your payments since renting will allow you to obtain a good return on investment and a much more predictable cash flow rate. Less time to invest in the

management of your own real estate! Indeed, by renting longterm, tenants appropriate your building as their own property. They will therefore tend to pay attention to it since they will keep it for several years.

LONG TERM DISADVANTAGES:

However, while the cash flow rate is much more predictable during a long-term rental, its rate is much lower than that of a shortterm rental. In fact, it is estimated to be around 5% return, while the percentage rises to 25% + during a short-term rental. While short-term rentals require more frequent maintenance of your property, longer leases prevent you from

solutions. Maybe instead of tearing down initiatives that aim to help people, they should spend some time sorting out their own internal issues. With a full slate of candidates yet to materialise—including the much-needed representation for areas like Cheshire Hall—the party might benefit from strengthening its own foundations to better serve the electorate.

Leadership is measured not by the frequency of opposition but by the willingness to act in the people’s best interests. Honourable Astwood has the opportunity to redefine his role—not as a leader who opposes for opposition’s sake. It can be a role as one who collaborates to achieve common goals. The opposition can play a transformative role by engaging proactively with the government on key issues, offering constructive criticism, and supporting initiatives that benefit our nation.

Our democracy works best when we strike a balance between healthy debates and working together. The challenges we’re facing—like bouncing back economically and improving our communities—call for unity and a shared focus on moving forward. When opposition is just for the sake of opposing, it can slow us down and chip away at people’s trust in our political

system.

It’s time we move past the old, stuck-in-place partisan divides. The PDM needs to take a more collaborative approach, espcially on the matter of economic relief. Honourable Astwood has the chance to guide our nation toward a future where the people’s needs come first. This means jumping into legislative debates, backing good ideas no matter where they come from, and offering solutions that make those ideas even better. Authentic leadership is about the courage to put the common good ahead of political convenience. Here in Turks and Caicos, we deserve leaders who genuinely have our best interests at heart— leaders who don’t just talk about the issues but step up and address them with real action and genuine care for every part of our community. We already have such a leader. His name is Hon. Charles Washington Misick. He’s in touch with the pulse of the nation. He cares about our people. Hon. Misick has heard the cries of our people. Meanwhile, PDM is on a heartless campaign to block money from those who need it, which is much more than a political blunder. It’s a blunder for the ages, one which history will not be kind to this uncaring PDM party.

Cultural and heritage protected and ...

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homeowners.

4. ATTRACTING INTERNATIONAL GRANTS:

taking care of it on a more regular basis. As a result, some elements could be damaged, and you will have less time to take care of them between each rental.

If you have any questions about property management, or if you are looking for a company to take care of your property, do not hesitate to contact us, Turks and Caicos Villas and Gardens at denisbgarden@gmail.com you can also visit us at www. turks-and-caicos-villas.com and also on our Facebook page Turks & Caicos villas

If you are a restaurateur, craftsman, sports company or anything else related to tourism and would like us to write about you, do not hesitate to contact me.

By positioning these zones as environmental and cultural conservation projects, the Turks and Caicos Islands could attract international funding from organisations committed to sustainable development and heritage preservation.

A PATH FORWARD

To realize the vision of cultural and heritage zones, several key steps are essential:

1. LEGISLATION AND POLICY:

Introduce laws that define and protect heritage zones, outlining eligibility for grants and subsidies.

2. PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS:

Collaborate with local businesses and international organizations to fund and develop these areas.

3. EDUCATION AND AWARENESS:

Educate the public about the value of cultural heritage and the opportunities these zones present for economic and social advancement.

4. STRATEGIC PLANNING:

Identify key areas with significant cultural and historical value, such as Grand Turk’s historic district or South Caicos and Salt Cay’s unique landscapes, North and Middle Caicos agricultural geography, and prioritise them for development.

CONCLUSION

Cultural and Heritage Protected and Development Zones present a unique opportunity for Turks and Caicos Islands to lead the region in blending tradition with innovation. By leveraging our rich history and culture, we can create a legacy of pride, sustainability, and prosperity for generations to come. This initiative is not just about preserving the past—it’s about shaping a future where the identity of TCI is the foundation of its growth.

Regional News

PM Davis: ‘No plan to raise vat on IMF advice’

Increasing value-added tax, raising water rates for heavy users and collecting patient fees at the Public Hospitals Authority are among the International Monetary Fund’s recommendations to help the government meet its debt target of 50 percent of GDP by 2031.

However, on Tuesday night, the Davis administration said it has no plans to increase VAT and noted that the IMF’s recommendations align with its previous ones.

The IMF, in its latest Article IV consultation statement on The Bahamas, said some combination of measures would help the government achieve its target, with other options including replacing business licence fees with a 15 percent profits tax on large domestic firms, introducing a personal income tax for top earners, and removing the ceiling on property tax.

The IMF described the government’s proposed pension reforms for

— introducing contributions for new hires and raising the mandatory retirement age — as “constructive”

The United Nations Humanitarian Air Service will restart flights within Haiti tomorrow after around a week’s hiatus and resolving regulatory issues, according to a statement from the UN World Food Programme, which manages the service.

The UN paused flights to Haiti’s capital last Tuesday, a day after gangs struck three commercial planes with gunfire, prompting the US aviation regulator to ban U.S. airlines from flying to the conflictravaged Caribbean nation for 30 days.

“UNHAS provides passenger and light cargo transport in Haiti for the entire humanitarian community, including local and international NGOs,” WFP said in a statement, adding that the suspension had not affected food

supplies.

Haiti’s government helicopter also resumed services on Monday, transporting three new government ministers following a cabinet shakeup last week that saw the prime minister ousted and many of his top ministers replaced.

Even as the flights restarted, armed violence continued in parts of the capital Port-au-Prince such as Lower Delmas.

The majority of Port-au-Prince is under the control of armed gangs who have been making gains in recent weeks while a long-delayed partially deployed UN-backed mission to reclaim territories and ensure aid deliveries continues to stall.

On Sunday, UN migration agency IOM estimated more than 20,000 people were displaced

but recommended aligning the minimum retirement age between the National Insurance Board and civil service systems and indexing retirement ages to life expectancy for both.

The IMF warned that improving tax collection and benefiting from lower interest payments alone will not be enough for the government to meet its debt target.

The IMF praised The Bahamas for a “remarkable recovery” from Hurricane Dorian in 2019 and the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that economic activity and employment have returned to pre-pandemic levels while inflation has fallen “below pre-pandemic levels.”

Despite these gains, the IMF highlighted persistent challenges facing the country.

“Income per capita continues to diverge from that in the US,” the report said. “At the same time, expensive electricity, a shortage of skilled labour, and obstacles to business formation and expansion continue to weigh on growth.”

The IMF also flagged high government debt levels and borrowing costs, which surged during the pandemic. Additionally, The Bahamas’ vulnerability to natural disasters and rising sea levels underscores the need for investments in climate resilience and building fiscal buffers to respond to shocks more effectively.

A year after saying the outlook risks for the country are skewed to the downside, the IMF this year

said the risks are balanced. “Upside risks,” its report said, “include the execution of announced infrastructure and hotel construction projects and a higher-than-expected boost from an expansion of short-term rentals. The main downsides stem from large public debt rollover needs and the ever-present risk of natural disasters.”

The IMF noted that the country’s fiscal deficit dropped to 1.3 percent of GDP in the fiscal year 2024, an improvement from the previous fiscal year, driven by increased revenues from better tax compliance, a cyclical economic rebound, and targeted policy measures. Expenditure containment, including reduced transfers to public corporations and under-execution of capital projects, also contributed to the adjustment.

In a statement last night, the Office of the Prime Minister said: “While there is much more work ahead, many more Bahamians are now working, and inflation is now below pre-pandemic levels. Public finances are improving, borrowing costs are declining, and the nation is on a stronger, more sustainable path forward.

“The Davis administration is implementing the nation’s first comprehensive energy reforms, including the first utility-scale solar farms, to reduce prices for homes and businesses and to strengthen our electricity grid.” (Tribune242)

across the capital in just four days, marking the largest mass displacement in over a year.

“The isolation of Port-au-Prince is amplifying an already dire humanitarian situation,” the IOM Haiti chief Gregoire Goodstein said in a statement, adding that only 20% of the capital was accessible to humanitarian workers.

“Our ability to deliver aid is stretched to its limits. Without immediate international support, the suffering will worsen exponentially,” he said.

UNICEF Haiti chief Geeta Narayan said over half of the 20,000 displaced were children, who were facing the “compounded impacts of malnutrition, cholera outbreaks, severe psychological distress, and all too often, tragic loss of life.”

Antigua: Authorities find cocaine concealed in postcards

Law enforcement in Antigua uncovered cocaine hidden within two postcards on Monday.

In a joint operation involving Police and Customs officials, a routine search of mail at the Woods Post Office revealed the Class-A drugs reportedly sent from England to an undisclosed local address in Antigua. Investigators seized approximately 38 grams of cocaine, which has an estimated street value of $1,336. The narcotics were concealed within the postcards. Authorities have commenced an investigation. (Loop News)

Cocaine concealed in postcards sent to Antigua

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis speaks during the EmpowerMen Forum at Margaritaville

civil servants

The aid helps a number of Haitians

UN to resume Haiti aid flights after planes hit by gunfire

Regional News

Bahamas Govt to increase fines on security firms hiring non-nationals

The Bahamas government is taking strong action against private security firms that are illegally hiring non-Bahamians.

The government plans to hold a stakeholder seminar on Friday to address employment violations in the security industry.

According to Paul Jones, Chief Counsel in the Ministry of National Security, there are concerns that several non-Bahamians may be working in the sector, which is supposed to be reserved for Bahamians. Companies that are found to be hiring non-Bahamians or unlicensed personnel could face fines ranging from US$500 to US$2,000.

Jones said the intention of

the seminar is to emphasize compliance with the Inquiry Agents and Security Guards Act and Regulations and that it will also discuss allowing security guards to carry firearms while on duty.

“There is a possibility. This seminar would give us an opportunity to also hear from them, and so that we can put forward certain recommendations to cause certain things to come into being. They’re the actual practitioners,” Jones said, adding “the police rely on them to be able to report to them suspicious situations and activities around schools”.

Companies that are found to be hiring non-Bahamians or unlicensed personnel could face fines ranging from US$500 to US$2,000

Currently, under the law only Bahamian citizens are eligible for employment as security guards or inquiry agents and Jones said there may be exceptions for foreigners being granted spousal permits leading to citizenship. Jones told reporters that firms might be hiring foreigners due to

Modi pledges more support for CARICOM

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is set to receive much-needed help from India to combat several challenges facing the region.

Speaking at the opening of the second India-CARICOM summit in Guyana today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the acronym of the 15-member regional group to highlight how India will support the region’s future development.

“We have made efforts to work together with CARICOM to address these challenges, whether it was COVID or natural disasters, capacity building or development work. India has moved forward shoulder to shoulder with all of you as a trustworthy partner,” Modi said.

The first of the seven pillars of the India-CARICOM relationship involves India providing the Caribbean with assistance to build capacity in several areas.

India is planning to grant 1,000 additional ITEC scholarships over the next five years to promote the technical training and skill

development of Caribbean youth.

The technical development centre in Belize will also be expanded so it can be accessed by all CARICOM countries.

“The second pillar is A. A stands for agriculture and food security. With technologies such as drones, digital farming, farm mechanisation and soil testing, India is transforming its agriculture sector. We are focussing on nanofertilisers and on natural farming as well. In order to improve food security, we are promoting millets,” the Indian PM said.

“On India’s initiative, the UN declared the year 2023 as the International Year of Millets. Millets are a superfood that can grow in any kind of climate. For CARICOM countries as well, this can become an effective means of addressing climate change and also improving food security.”

In the area of health, Modi said India is prepared to assist regional countries deal with noncommunicable diseases, which are a high priority for the region.

difficulties finding Bahamians to fill these roles. He noted some people have complained Bahamians don’t want to work or have an issue with the working hours for the job.

But he said the ministry is monitoring companies violating the law regardless of their reasons.

All security guards and inquiry agents must hold licenses issued by the Ministry of National Security. Licenses are granted based on the person’s character and history. In addition, security companies are required to have proper licenses.

Companies are also required to have indemnity insurance to protect security guards in case of incidents happening while on duty.

(Caribbeannationalweekly)

MSF halts work in Haitian capital over attacks

The humanitarian medical organisation Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has suspended its operations in the Haitian capital, Port-au-Prince, following a violent attack on its staff and the alleged killing of two patients they were treating by Haitian police officers.

The incident took place last week as violence continued to worsen in the country.

An estimated 25 people were killed in Port-au-Prince on Tuesday alone in what police say was a foiled attempt at a gang invasion of a wealthy neighbourhood.

Politically, the situation also remains critical with interim Prime Minister Garry Conille fired this month by the country’s ruling

council - less than six months after he took office.

MSF says that on 11 November one of its ambulances carrying three young men with gunshot wounds was stopped by Haitian law enforcement officers.

Apparently supported by a paramilitary self-defence group, the men attacked the vehicle, removed two of the patients, took them outside hospital grounds and executed them.

The humanitarian group denounced the violence in a strongly worded statement last week, saying their personnel had been tear-gassed and held against their will for several hours.

While that incident appears

to have been the final straw for MSF in Port-au-Prince, at least for the time being, it was not the only recent example of extreme aggression against their staff.

The announcement comes amid a worsening climate of violence in Haiti with some 25 suspected gang members killed in the capital on Tuesday.

The police say that residents helped officers to fight off an attempted attack on the upscale suburb of Pétion-Ville.

The neighbourhood was cordoned off after residents barricaded streets, some armed with machetes and makeshift weapons, in an apparent effort to prevent a gang invasion. (BBC)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi (right) next to Guyana’s President Dr Irfaan Ali (middle) and Chair of CARICOM Dickon Mitchell (left)

People carry belongings as they flee Port-au-Prince’s neighbourhood of Nazon due to gang violence

Arrest warrants issued for Netanyahu, Gallant and Hamas commander over alleged war crimes

Judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) have issued arrest warrants for Israel’s prime minister and former defence minister, as well as the military commander of Hamas.

A statement said a pre-trial chamber had rejected Israel’s challenges to the court’s jurisdiction and issued warrants for Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant.

A warrant was also issued for Mohammed Deif of Hamas, although Israel has said he was killed in an air strike in Gaza in July.

The judges said there were

“reasonable grounds” the three men bore “criminal responsibility” for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during the war between Israel and Hamas. Both Israel and Hamas have rejected the allegations.

The Israeli prime minister’s office condemned the ICC’s decision as “antisemitic”, while Hamas said the warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant have set an “important historical precedent”.

The impact of these warrants will in part depend on whether the ICC’s 124 member states - which

do not include Israel or its main ally, the United States - decide to enforce them or not.

In a statement, the White House said the US rejected the ICC decision.

However, the EU’s foreign policy chief said it should be respected and implemented.

The ICC has been part of the global justice system since 2002. It has the authority to prosecute those accused of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes on the territory of states party to the Rome Statute, its founding treaty.

Briton, 18, faces Dubai jail for sex with girl, 17

An 18-year-old Briton faces up to 20 years in a Dubai prison for having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old British girl while the pair were on holiday in the emirate, a human rights campaigner has said.

Marcus Fakana, of Tottenham, north London, was on holiday with his family when he began a secretive holiday romance in September with another Londoner, who has since turned 18, according to Radha Stirling, of campaign group Detained in Dubai.

After returning home and seeing pictures and chats, the girl’s mother reported the relationship to Dubai police, who then arrested

Mr Fakana at his hotel, Ms Stirling said.

The United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) London embassy has been asked for comment.

A UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) spokesperson said: “We are supporting a British man in the UAE and are in contact with his family.”

Ms Stirling, the founder and chief executive of Detained in Dubai, which helps foreigners abroad and is an international authority on UAE law, said Mr Fakana and his parents were “extremely distressed” by the events.

Blair leads tributes to Labour giant John Prescott

Tributes have been paid to Lord John Prescott, a major figure in Labour politics and the former deputy prime minister, following his death at the age of 86.

Known for his blunt, nononsense style, Lord Prescott was Sir Tony Blair’s loyal deputy for 10 years after Labour’s 1997 general election landslide.

Sir Tony said he was “devastated” by the death of his friend, telling the BBC there was “no one quite like him in British politics”.

His successor Gordon Brown called Lord Prescott a “working class hero”, while Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer hailed a “true giant” of the Labour movement.

The King praised his “decades of public service” and recalled “with great fondness his unique and indomitable character, as

well as his infectious sense of humour”.

In a statement announcing his death, Lord Prescott’s wife and two sons said he had been in a care home recently living with Alzheimer’s.

They said he died “surrounded by the love of his family and the jazz music of Marian Montgomery”.

Sir Tony said the pair would talk via videocall in recent times, and Lord Prescott was “still as lively and punchy as ever”.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, the former prime minister said Lord Prescott reached parts of the electorate that he could not, and was “loyal, committed and an enormous help”

as his deputy. However, he said their relationship was not just political and they developed a “genuine admiration, respect and affection for each other”.

Brown described him as a “colossus” and “a titan of the Labour movement”. Lord Prescott played an

invaluable role as peacemaker between Brown and Sir Tony, often being described as their “marriage counsellor”.

Paying tribute in the House of Commons, Sir Keir said Lord Prescott was “a man who fought for working-class ambition because he lived it”, adding: “He truly was a one off.”

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner - who shares a working class and trade union background with Lord Prescott - said he was “not only a Labour legend but an inspiration to me”.

She said he had been “a huge support”, offering the advice to “be authentically yourself and keep thinking about the people you’re there to represent”.

Lord Mandelson, a key architect of New Labour, hailed him as an “all time great” of the party.

Lord Prescott with Tony Blair and Gordon Brown in 2004

Benjamin Netanyahu (L), Yoav Gallant (C) and Mohammed Deif (R)

Marcus Fakana, 18, is staying in rented accommodation in Dubai as he awaits trial

Russia

says ‘new’ missile travels ten times the

speed of sound

President Vladimir Putin on Thursday described Russia’s new experimental ballistic missile as capable of Mach 10 - ten times the speed of sound, up to 3km per second.

It’s on the upper edge of the definition of hypersonic, and few things can achieve this.

Speed is important because the faster a missile travels, the quicker it gets to target. And the quicker it gets to target, the less time a defending military has to react (after all, Speed = Distance / Time).

A ballistic missile generally gets to target by following an arcing path up into the atmosphere and a similar one down towards its destination.

But as it descends, it picks up speed, it has more kinetic energy and more kinetic energy gives it more options. This allows it

to manoeuvre down towards the target - by performing some kind of defending wriggle - that makes interception by surface-to-air missile systems (such as Patriot) particularly difficult.

This isn’t new for militaries that have to defend against such threats of course, but the greater the speed, the harder it becomes.

That’s why President Putin has likely placed emphasis on its speed in announcing this new type of missile.

US officials told the BBC today that it was already aware of this new experimental system and had briefed Ukraine and its partners about its possible use to help them prepare.

Nearly 12,000 missiles have been launched against Ukraine by Russia since this full-scale conflict started. An extraordinary number.

Brazil ex-President Bolsonaro indicted over alleged knowledge of coup plot

Brazilian authorities have indicted ex-president Jair Bolsonaro, accusing him of “full knowledge” of a 2022 plot to kill his successor, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and overturn the results of the presidential election.

On Thursday, Brazil’s federal police indicted 37 individuals including Bolsonaro, as part of the investigation into the fallout of the 2022 presidential elections, in which Bolsonaro’s bid for reelection was defeated, CNN Brasil reports. Police reportedly allege that Bolsonaro had “full knowledge” of a plan to prevent Lula and his government from taking office after his election victory.

Earlier this week, Brazilian police arrested five people, including a former adviser to Bolsonaro, over the alleged plots. The coup plotters also envisaged the assassination of Lula’s Vice President Geraldo Alckmin and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, the Supreme Court said in its arrest order.

The order, signed by Moraes on Sunday, authorized the preventative detention of the five suspects, including retired general Mário Fernandes – the second-highest ranking executive of the General Secretariat of the Presidency during Bolsonaro’s administration, per CNN Brasil.

In October 2022, Lula narrowly beat Bolsonaro in the presidential

election. Bolsonaro’s supporters rejected the results and rioted in the capital Brasilia, storming government buildings on January 8, 2023.

According to the police warrant carried out on Tuesday, Bolsonaro allegedly met with officials from the army and navy as well as the minister of defense in December 2022 to present a document detailing the legal framework that would keep him in power.

The former president has repeatedly denied allegations of

attempting a coup. His son, Flavio Bolsonaro, who is a senator in the Brazilian Congress, suggested in a post on X that the five suspects arrested this week had not committed a crime.

“As disgusting as it may be to think about killing someone, it is not a crime. And for there to be an attempt, the execution must be interrupted by some situation beyond the control of the perpetrators. Which does not appear to have happened,” he wrote. (CNN)

Texas offers Trump land for migrant ‘deportation facilities’

Texas authorities say they are prepared to offer President-elect Donald Trump 1,400-acres (567 hectares) of land along the USMexico border to build detention facilities for undocumented migrants.

In a letter, the Texas General Land Office said the plot could be used to build facilities for “processing, detention, and coordination of the largest deportation of violent criminals in the nation’s history”.

Trump has repeatedly pledged to deport millions of undocumented migrants and mobilise the National Guard to help carry this out.

His plan, however, is likely to face enormous financial and logistics hurdles, as well as immediate legal challenges from rights groups.

The letter, published online and sent to Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, notes that the owner of the recently purchased

land had refused to allow a border wall to be built there and “actively blocked law enforcement” from accessing it.

“Now it’s essentially farmland, so it’s flat, it’s easy to build on.

We can very easily put a detention centre on there,” Texas Land

Commissioner Dawn Buckingham said in an interview with Fox News, which first reported the offer.

The state government in Texas, which launched its own unilateral border security operation after Trump left office, has been broadly supportive of Trump’s promises to

strengthen the US-Mexico border.

Buckingham said she was “100% on board with the Trump administration’s pledge to get these criminals out of our country”.

But the Democratic governors of three other southern border states - California, Arizona, and New Mexico - have said they will not aid mass deportations.

“Local and state officials on the frontlines of the HarrisBiden border invasion have been suffering for four years and are eager for President Trump to return to the Oval Office,” Trump transition spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said in a statement.

“President Trump will marshal every lever of power to secure the border, protect their communities, and launch the largest mass deportation operation of illegal immigrant criminals in history.”

What any new detention facilities would look like is unclear, although the incoming “border

czar” Tom Homan has suggested they could be “soft-sided”. Facilities currently in use range from soft-sided, camp-like facilities used by Customs and Border Patrol to house undocumented migrants for short periods of time, as well as brick-and-mortar buildings used by Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, or ICE.

County and state jails are also used, for which local jurisdictions receive compensation from immigration authorities.

Stephen Miller, the top Trump adviser on immigration who has been picked as deputy chief of staff for policy, has previously said the Trump administration would build vast holding facilities to serve as staging centres for mass deportations.

In a late 2023 interview with the New York Times, Miller said that the facilities would likely be built on open land near Texas’ border with Mexico.

Russia’s new experimental ballistic missile as capable of Mach 10 - ten times the speed of sound

Jair Bolsonaro narrowly lost to current President Lula da Silva in October of 2022

The land is in Texas’ Starr County in the Rio Grande Valley, on the border with the Mexican state of Tamaulipas

3 LABOURERS CLEANER

JANITOR

DISHWASHER

CLEANER

DOMESTIC WORKER

JOB VACANCY

Andaz Turks and Caicos Residences at Grace Bay is a luxury boutique hotel nestled along the shore of the world’s number one beach Grace Bay. We are seeking determined and energetic professionals who provide discreet yet personalized and attentive service that well defines the Andaz Turks and Caicos experience.

MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING COORDINATOR

The MEP Coordinator’s main responsibility is to lead the effort in coordinating, scheduling and managing the mechanical, electrical, Fire, BAS and plumbing design and construction issues from preconstruction through construction to ensure the successful completion of Andaz Turks and Caicos Residences quality standards.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Take overall responsibility for the performance and quality control of all MEP trades. This includes but is not limited to the following scope of work: Mechanical, Plumbing, Ductwork, Sprinklers, Building Controls, Electrical, Generator, Fire Alarm, Tele/Data, AV, Security, CCTV, Electronic door Locks, Site Utilities including STP and Fire Protection.

• Implement and manage Andaz Turks and Caicos Residences MEP coordination process to resolve all conflicts prior to start.

• Assist the Project Manage as necessary in estimating change orders.

• Evaluate the complexity of the mechanical/electrical design and estimate both the construction cost and maintenance.

• Ensure the constructability of the design and compatibility with local building codes and the end user’s requirements.

• Outline work to be performed by the mechanical and electrical subcontractors, phasing work, problem encountered in scheduling, quality of work, etc.

• Check all underground piping as it is being installed and ensure all heavy pipe and other mechanical equipment is in place before walls are poured.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering with minimum 8 years’ experience

• Must has strong grasp of all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, Fire protection and low-voltage systems

• General understanding of Building Codes, Mechanical Codes, Electrical Codes and Plumbing Codes as they relate to construction of project

• Previous client-side role for the design, construction and handover of top brand hotels

• A full understanding of a top brand hotels specification and requirements, including the running and maintenance required, including developing the O and M manuals and maintenance schedule.

• Previous experience in the interface of the BAS and PMS for a major hotel.

• Had previous experience in the production of commissioning programs and procedures, including the demonstration of all MEP services to the end user and local authorities for major hotels.

Salary: $80k to $100k per annum based on qualifications and experience.

DOMESTIC WORKER

Ashley’s Learning Center: A beacon of hope

BY SHANICE LIGHTBOURNE

Ashley’s Learning Center, designed specifically for students with special needs, hosted an open day at the institution on Wednesday, November 20, where the teachers highlighted the need for volunteers and further support.

The students at this institution encompass a diverse range of individuals, including those on the autism spectrum to those with visual impairments.

The institution includes classrooms, a break room designed to assist students experiencing overstimulation, a playground for recreational activities, a music room for artistic expression, and a life skills centre where students can acquire essential skills necessary for successful navigation of the real world.

Currently, the school, which is approaching its tenth anniversary, has 10 faculty members and 18 students enrolled in its day programme.

Its principal, Shelrica Banton, noted that volunteering options are available for people to come in day-to-day.

“Of course we offer that opportunity for persons to volunteer their time to come and schedule a session where they are able to sit in and assist in the day-to-day. Possibly they’ll want to come to volunteer, to work with students on their crafts, or volunteer their time.”

She also stated how great the collaboration has been with the Special Education Needs Department.

“It has been great being given the opportunity to work alongside the Special Education Needs Department. We were a part of their launch just earlier this year,” she states.

FUNDING AND SUPPORT

Ben Avenant, Chair of the board mentions when the board was formed, the non-profit fundraising initiatives, and the focus on their mission for Ashley’s Learning Centre.

“The board was formed officially in 2020, end of 2021 and we were formed to sort of take the school forward and move it into a more structured organisational sort of body, which allows us to be a bit

more relevant and also allows us to reach out to, in an official capacity, to funding or to funders.”

He added, “so we’re excited to host next year’s Charity Challenge and again, get the groundswell of business in and participation. So not only was it a great event, but this year it identified two very worthwhile, needy causes. Brayton Hall had a large renovation to it, and Ashley Learning Center certainly captured the committee’s heart we were proud to raise close to $66,000 to be used on projects at the Ashley Learning Center,” he states.

Murad Muhammad, involved with the Corporate Charity Challenge since its inception in 2017, mentions how the board

plans to focus on Ashley Learning Center.

“We decided as a group to say, you know what, Ashley Learning Center has a lot of needs and we realised that one year, we won’t have enough funds to cover the need and then I think as a board, we agreed for three years to continue on only focusing on Ashley Learning Center as the purpose of the tournament,” he said.

Dave Douglas, with the Corporate Charity Challenge, explains the layout of the golf tournament fundraiser and how much it has helped Ashley Learning Center.

“It is on a Sunday. It has different businesses put in their teams and such, and it has a great

lead-up social aspect to it with a party during the week and then, of course, on Sunday, it has the golf tournament,” he mentions.

He added that las year was a resounding success, “We want to get the word out as to what the improvements are at the Ashley Learning Center with the renovation and the repair of the roof, which looks amazing, and also with some of the items that were purchased to enhance the students and their day-to-day classes”.

The public can visit Ashley’s Learning Center website for further information to donate or you can contact them through their email which is info@ ashleyslearningcenter.org.

‘Proud of My Island Bags’ blending dazzle with sustainability

Proud of My Island shopping bags are not just accessories; they are vibrant reflections of the allure and grace of the Turks & Caicos Islands.

With the recent launch of their 3rd collection, these bags continue to captivate with stunning imagery showcasing the island’s unique features, where every snapshot serves as a testament to their commitment to raising awareness. From wild donkeys roaming Grand Turk to the mesmerising blue hole of East Caicos, to the inclusion of esteemed figures such as former Miss Turks and Caicos Shanice Williams, which further reinforces the spirit of TCI identity and elegance.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the success of Proud of My Island bags goes beyond commerce. With each purchase, funds are raised to support the Edward C. Gartland Youth Centre and Food for Thought, two vital non-profits in TCI, with contributions totalling $2000 each. This commitment to community underscores the

behind Proud of My Island, view these bags as more than just products; they are storytellers.

“These bags tell a narrative of our identity and shared belief in the potential of our islands,” they remark. “They serve as tangible reminders of our spectacular diversity for both locals and visitors alike, embodying memories of a remarkable journey.”

Moreover, Proud of My Island embraces sustainability as a core value. These bags are not only sturdy and reusable but also contribute to reducing the carbon footprint, aligning with the founders’ commitment to environmental stewardship.

As Sammy emphasises, “Sustainability is not just a trend; it’s a lifestyle, and these bags exemplify our dedication to preserving our natural resources.”

Building on their success, Sammy and Emiliano have launched the “Beyond the Bag Movement” in collaboration with TCI Waste and the DECR. This initiative aims to increase

recycling efforts by installing recycle bins at public beach access points, promoting cleanliness and environmental responsibility throughout the islands.

Proud of My Island extends its heartfelt gratitude to its sponsors and contributors, including Atlantic Aviation, Freedivewithme, Java Island, Caicos Catalyst, Sunshine Nursery, Grace Bay Medical Centre, Wymara Resorts, Turks & Caicos Coca Cola, Hartling Group, TCI Waste and Do-ItCenter for their unwavering support. Contributors include: Visittci.com, Agile LeVin, Lemens Welch Photography, Caicu Naniki Vacation Adventures, Reef Fund and Graceway Supermarkets.

As anticipation builds for the upcoming 4th collection, set to debut in early 2025, Proud of My Island invites everyone to join in celebrating the beauty and resilience of Turks & Caicos through these distinctive bags that embody both style and environmental consciousness.

Dave Douglas, Ben Avenant (second left), Murad Muhamad and Ashley’s Learning Center’s Principal Shelrica Banton (sitting)

LABOURER

& PARCEL 60809/223 WHICH IS APPROXIMATELY 0.704 ACRES OF LAND LOCATED AT THE BIGHT & THOMAS STUBB, PROVIDENCIALES.

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of publication of this Notice. You may also make representation(s) via video conferencing at the sitting of the Physical Planning Board when this application would be considered. If you are desirous so to do via video conferencing, contact the Secretary of Physical Planning Board.

COSMETOLOGIST BARBERS

DOMESTIC WORKER

PUBLIC NOTICE

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION

( SECTION 4(3) OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS ORDINANCE)

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

KARAM & MISSICK ATTORNEYS

Take notice that I, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands in exercise of the powers conferred in me by Section 6(4) of the Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Turks and Caicos Islander Status to Ana De Vargas Almonte Saunders by virtue of marriage to a Turks and Caicos Islander.

PARALEGAL

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Assisting litigation attorneys with trial preparation, drafting of pleadings, Legal research in different areas such as commercial litigation, corporate law conveyancing mortgages, Letters of Administration.

• Pre-trial preparation, preparing trial Bundles, analyzing records for trials, updating respective banks, liaising with search companies.

• Drafting of Conveyances, Mortgages, Contracts, shareholders agreements, Operating Agreements, Corporate Resolutions. Preparation of Probate and Letters of Administration documentation

• Assisting MLRO/MLCO with implementation of risk-based AML/CFT procedures and client onboarding (KYC).

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

• Candidate should hold a law degree from a recognized University.

• Candidate must be computer proficient in office software such as, MS Office and Excel.

• Candidate must be experienced and qualified in Governance, Risk and Compliance.

• Must be able to communicate efficiently with clients.

EXPERIENCE

• Must have previous experience as a Paralegal (at least 5 years) with references.

• Experience in managing and operating a law firm dealing with litigation in the areas of: commercial, probate, conveyancing, company, employment, finance.

• Must be trained in and be able to manage and mitigate against AML/CTF risks.

• Experience in Supreme Court and labour tribunal filing procedures.

• Must have experience in company matters.

• Must be able to multitask and complete assigned task with alacrity.

• Must be a team player and be willing and able to take guidance.

• Must be able to take initiative and work independently.

TERMS

OF EMPLOYMENT

Salary commensurate of skills, qualification and experience. Support for professional development will also be offered.

Closing date for applicants January 20, 2025

CONSTRUCTION MANAGER

Plan and supervise a wide range of construction projects from start to finish, experience in managing large scale vertical construction projects is necessary. You will organize and oversee construction the construction team procedures and ensure they are completed in a timely and efficient manner.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with architects etc. to determine the specifications of the project.

• Negotiate contracts with external vendors to reach profitable agreements.

• Determine needed resources (manpower, equipment, and materials) from start to finish with attention to budgetary limitations.

• Plan all construction operations and schedule intermediate phases to ensure deadlines will be met.

• Acquire equipment and material and monitor stocks to timely handle inadequacies.

• Allocate staff with responsibilities

• Supervise the work of all construction team members and give guidance when needed.

• Evaluate progress and prepare detailed progress reports.

• Ensure adherence to all health and safety standards and report issues. Requirements:

• Proven experience as construction project manager, minimum 10 years’ experience managing projects greater than USD $30 MIL.

• In-depth understanding of construction procedures and material and site engineer principles

• Familiarity with quality and health and safety standards

• Good knowledge of MS Office, MS Projects

• Familiarity with construction/ project management software Procore and Blue Beam

• Outstanding communication and negotiation skills

• Excellent organizational and time-management skills

• A team player with leadership abilities

dependent on experience

PUBLIC NOTICE

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS APPLICATION

( SECTION 4(3) OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDER STATUS ORDINANCE)

Take notice that I, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands in exercise of the powers conferred in me by Section 6(4) of the Turks and Caicos Islander Status Ordinance intend to grant a Certificate of Turks and Caicos Islander Status to Alidu Waziri by virtue of marriage to a Turks and Caicos Islander.

BABYSITTER

Ensuring a safe environment, preparing and giving meals, bathing and dressing children, administering medicine, doing housework, and etc. Salary: $8.00 hourly

CONTACT: 346-1640

BELONGERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY TO THE LABOUR BOARD

NOTICE

REGULATION 8 OF THE PHYSICAL PLANNING (DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION) REGULATIONS, 2021

THE FOLLOWING APPLICATIONS REGISTERED BY APPLICATION NUMBERS:

WERE SUBMITTED FOR DETAILED DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION. EACH APPLICATION CONTEMPLATES THE PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF A MAIN DWELLING CONTAINING SIX (6) BEDROOM, SIX AND A HALF (6.5) BATHROOM, POOL, PUMP ROOM, DECK, STORAGE, CISTERN AND ANCILLARY FACILITIES ON THE AFOREMENTIONED BLOCK & PARCELS OF LAND LOCATED AT NORTH WEST AND CENTRAL, PROVIDENCIALES.

THE PROPOSED VILLA APPLICATIONS FORM PART OF THE URBAN HOTEL RESORT DEVELOPMENT.

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of publication of this Notice. You may also make representation(s) via video conferencing at the sitting of the Physical Planning Board when this application would be considered. If you are desirous so to do via video conferencing, contact the Secretary of Physical Planning Board.

NOTICE is hereby given that I have been appointed as Voluntary Liquidator of the above company.

DATED this 19th Day of September 2024 Gordon J. Burton Voluntary Liquidator

C/o Caribbean Management Services Limited

Richmond House

122 Blue Mountain Road Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

The Turks and Caicos Islands oldest and leading publishing house is in need of additional staff to fill the following posts:

WRITERS/ PHOTO JOURNALIST

Candidates must have at least five (5) years’ experience working full-time for daily newspapers and/or news/features magazines, reporting on hard news, features and parliamentary/court proceedings. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

FOR MAGAZINES AND OTHER PERIODICALS GRAPHICS PRODUCTION DESIGNER/ PAGINATOR

This position requires someone with at least five (5) years’ experience working with Macintosh or PC computers. Must be skilled in the make-up of advertising and pagination. Proficiency using InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop software for print is essential. Some technical, networking and web design knowledge an asset. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

COURT REPORTER

College or high school graduate with at least five (5) years’ experience in community reporting. Ability to drive and use a camera a desirable asset. Salary paid weekly will commensurate with experience.

ADVERTISING SPACE SALES PERSON

Candidates must have had actual hands-on experience selling advertising space for newspapers and magazines. Ability to assist clients with the writing of copy for ads and gathering of collateral an asset. Salary is commission based.

DYSHAWN JOSEPH

Wilson Circle, Blue Hills Is seeking to employ a

Flamingo Park, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, British West Indies Tel 649 333 5638

Email Toby Barkworth-Knight, Director: toby.bk@provoprimary.com Website www.provoprimary.com

PART-TIME / FULL-TIME POSITION EARLY YEARS TEACHING ASSISTANT

At Providenciales Primary School, we believe in the delivery of a practical, hands on and truly play-based approach to learning. Our Early Years has been described by the TCI’s Education Department as a “Model of Excellence.”

We are pleased to be expanding our staffing in November – January 2024. Are you interested in joining our team?

• We require a Teaching Assistant to work in one of our Early Years classes, caring for our 2–5-year-old students.

• This role will be a fixed-term contract initially, which can be extended after June 2025.

• This role can be part time (5 mornings per week, 8am – 1pm) or full time (8am –4pm). This role would be ideal for someone wishing to gain experience in an Early Years or lower Primary setting.

• Your responsibilities will include supporting the classroom teacher in their care for, preparation and teaching a class of Early Years age children.

• Applicants may have experience working in an Early Years environment and/or hold an Early Childhood Certificate. At this time, we would consider applicants enrolled on an Early Childhood Education programme. This position would provide an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to increase their experience within the Early Childhood Education field.

• Salary range is commensurate with experience, posts of responsibility and qualifications, from $24,000 – $36,000 per annum (based on 40 hours per week).

HEAD

TEACHER

• You will be responsible for the education and wellbeing of all students, and for curriculum development throughout the school.

• Applicants must hold a Teaching Degree in Primary Education or similar teaching qualification. You must have at least ten years’ experience working within a British National Curriculum primary school at a senior management level.

• Salary range is commensurate with experience, posts of responsibility and qualifications, from $48,000 - $84,000 per annum.

• This position is currently held by a work permit holder.

• We invite prospective applicants who are Turks Islanders to send copies of their applications to Providenciales Primary School for shortlisting.

PLEASE SEND A FULL RESUME, LETTER OF APPLICATION, CERTIFICATES AND POLICE CHECK, TOGETHER WITH THE NAMES AND PHONE NUMBERS OF TWO REFEREES, TO TOBY BARKWORTH-KNIGHT, DIRECTOR, AT TOBY.BK@PROVOPRIMARY.COM.

Shortlisting and interviews for this position will commence on Monday 11th November 2024.

Whereas, POTTER PALMER as the registered proprietor of the properties above has declared that the Land Certificates for the abovementioned title numbers registered in the name of POTTER PALMER were inadvertently lost.

Take that I, Lasana Murray, Registrar of Lands, shall issue a new Land Certificates for the said title six weeks of the date of the first publication of this Notice in a Local Newspaper and the Gazette.

Dated this 12th September, 2024

Publicized by Order Registrar of Lands.

NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION

Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Ltd. Of Cherokee Rd, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following properties pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

PARCEL 10201/50 NORTH WEST SUBURBS, GRAND TURK, TCI

– Two-bedroom, two-bathroom house approximately 1500 sq. ft located in North West Suburbs, Grand Turk

Registered Proprietor: Keran Toussaint

PARCEL 60702/259 CHESHIRE HALL & RICHMOND HILL, PROVIDENCIALES, TCI

– Six-bedroom, four- bathroom house approximately 2540 sq. ft located in Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill, Providenciales

Registered Proprietor: Ian Astwood

The auction will be held at the office of Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Limited, 88 Cherokee Road, Providenciales at 10 o’clock in the morning on Monday, the 25th day of November 2024.

A reserved price will be fixed on all parcels and a deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids. Conditions of Sale available upon request or at the Auction.

CLEANER

KITCHEN HELPER

JOB VACANCY

FURNITURE

PROJECT MANAGER

The Furniture Project Manager is responsible for overseeing the planning, coordination, and installation of furniture on the construction site. This role ensures that all furniture is installed according to project specifications, timelines, and quality standards. The manager will work closely with contractors, suppliers, and other project stakeholders to ensure seamless execution, while also managing the budget, timelines, and workforce involved in the installation process.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

WC SECURITY SERVICES

SECURITY OFFICERS

SALARY $9:00 PER HOUR

Responsibilities: Maintain a safe and secure environment for customers and clients. Conduct patrols, deter potential threats, monitor activities, and safeguard properties and business establishments. Possess strong surveillance skills and the ability to address threats effectively. Demonstrate excellent judgment, objectivity, and dependability. Handle conflicts professionally and with integrity. Ensure safety management and uphold professionalism in all duties. provide clear and accurate reporting. Knowledge of CCTV systems and security alarms is highly desirable.

SECURITY SUPERVISOR

SALARY $9.45 PER HOUR

R ESPONSIBILITIES:

Set performance goals and deadlines aligned with the company’s plans and vision. Organize workflows and ensure employees understand their responsibilities and delegated tasks. Monitor employee productivity and provide constructive feedback and coaching to support improvement.

REQUIRED:

Experience in providing advice and resolving critical situations. An understanding of basic police and other Emergency Services procedures. Willingness to commit to further training. The ability to operate surveillance equipment, including cameras, camcorders, and CCTV systems is desirable. Preferably Former police/military, or with longer security experience and with TCI driver’s license.

TRAINER/TRAINING OFFICER

SALARY FROM $3 ,000.00

R ESPONSIBILITIES:

Identify, develop, facilitate, and monitor training activities within the company. Assess training needs and design internal programs or coordinate with external providers to meet those needs. Facilitate learning sessions, provide constructive feedback, and monitor training outcomes to ensure effectiveness. Key qualifications include strong research and planning skills, excellent communication and presentation abilities, coaching expertise, teamwork, and problem-solving capabilities. Flexibility, multidisciplinary knowledge, and a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of security are advantageous.

• Develop and manage installation schedules for all furniture-related activities on the construction site.

• Coordinate with interior designers, architects, and general contractors to ensure furniture installation aligns with the overall construction timeline.

• Ensure that all furniture meets design specifications, quality standards, and compliance requirements.

• Manage and oversee the installation crew, ensuring proper procedures are followed during furniture assembly and placement.

• Assign tasks to the installation team and ensure they are completed efficiently and on time.

• Conduct regular meetings to update stakeholders on the progress of the furniture installation.

• Liaise with furniture suppliers to ensure timely deliveries and resolve any issues related to missing or damaged items.

• Review and approve product samples, ensuring they meet the project’s specifications and quality standards.

• Manage relationships with subcontractors, ensuring they adhere to agreed contracts and timelines.

• Manage the furniture installation budget, ensuring cost-effective procurement and timely installation without exceeding allocated funds.

• Review and track project costs related to furniture procurement, delivery, and installation.

• Ensure that all furniture installations meet the required standards of safety, functionality, and durability.

• Perform quality inspections throughout the installation process to identify and address any potential issues. Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in project management, interior design, construction management, or related field (preferred).

• Relevant certifications in project management (PMP, CAPM) or interior design are a plus.

• Minimum of 3-5 years of project management experience in furniture installation, construction, or a related industry.

• Strong knowledge of furniture design, assembly, and installation techniques Salary based on qualifications and experience.

CLEANER

ACA/ACCA/CA/FCA

Opportunities exist

AUDIT ASSISTANT MANAGERS

We are seeking two audit assistant managers who are professionally qualified chartered/public accountants with a minimum of six years post graduate professional experience gained within a major public accounting firm. These individuals are required to help manage the external audit process from planning through to completion including leading members of the engagement team. They will report to the managers, senior managers and directors of the firm. Salary ranges from US$65,000 to US$85,000 per annum.

AUDIT SENIORS

We are seeking four audit seniors who are professionally qualified chartered/ public accountants with a minimum of four years post graduate professional experience gained within a major public accounting firm or a large company. These individuals are required to assist managers, senior managers and directors in the planning and execution of external audits and supervise and train junior staff. Salary ranges from US$50,000 to US$70,000 per annum.

GRADUATE TRAINEES

We are seeking two motivated graduate trainees with a degree in accounting, finance or business to work in our audit department. A strong ambition to obtain an internationally recognised accounting designation as soon as possible is required. A competitive salary and training support will be provided.

Extensive experience of International Standards on Auditing and International Financial Reporting Standards is mandatory for the audit assistant manager and audit senior positions.

One audit assistant manager position and one audit senior positions are currently held by work permit holders. All other positions are new. If you wish to be considered for these opportunities, please apply in confidence by sending details of your experience and qualifications to either:

dedicated and passionate individuals to join the Big Blue family as a

To contribute to our mission of protecting and educating others about the unique ecosystems of the Turks and Caicos Islands. This role emphasizes mangrove and coastal plant ecology, combining scientific expertise with guiding eco-tours and promoting environmental awareness.

THE FOLLOWING ARE REQUIRED OF THE APPLICANT:

• Conduct research and monitoring of mangroves, seagrass meadows, and coastal plant ecosystems.

• Lead guided eco-tours, sharing in-depth knowledge about mangroves, plant species, and their role in the coastal ecosystem. Develop and implement conservation and restoration projects for mangroves and coastal vegetation.

• Educate guests and the local community on the critical importance of mangroves and coastal plants for biodiversity and climate resilience.

• Collaborate with local organizations to enhance conservation efforts.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Degree in Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field with a focus on mangrove and coastal plant ecosystems. A deep passion for environmental conservation and education.

• Excellent communication and public speaking skills to engage and educate diverse audiences. Experience in eco-tourism, guiding, or environmental outreach is an asset.

• Proficiency in swimming; snorkeling or diving certification is highly preferred.

• Specifically seeking for belongers. Interested applicants should apply to the email address below. Salary range: $125-$175 per day plus gratuities and guaranteed service charge.

GRACE BAY MEDICAL CENTER

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Must have a post-secondary/graduate degree or equivalent

• Minimum of 5 years work experience

• Must be on a register of a recognized Medical Board.

MAIN DUTIES

• Diagnose, treat and care for patients using natural health process

• Promote well-being by educating patients about health care management

• Management of chronic and acute medical conditions

• Carry out hands-on treatments such as osteopathy, reflexology, or acupuncture, and/or work with the client using hydrotherapy, coaching, meditation or yoga techniques

• Provide follow up care through additional one-to-one sessions to track progress and review treatments as required

• Occasional referral of clients to other practitioners who can help the client with issues that sit outside of your remit, such as counsellors

• Recommend and give advice on diet changes, exercise regimes, lifestyle, herbal medicine and homeopathic remedies

• Create personalised health programmes or treatment plans, which address all areas of the person’s life

Monthly salary $5000 - $7000 depending on experience. Belongers only need to apply. This position is currently held by a work permit holder.

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Are you a people person? Are you a sales person?

Big Blue Collective is seeking a highly self motived, energetic salesperson that loves to work with people and enjoys customer service to work in a team environment.

SALES REP PROFILE:

• Passion for tourism with an eco friendly drive and all the represent Big Blue Collective

• Love working with the public

• Self motivation

• Friendly professional, confident communication with excellent verbal and written skills mandatory.

• Outgoing, honest, energetic, positive spirit and enthusiasm

• Can stay focused and on track in a busy environment?

• Can you think on your feet?

• Love working in a team environment.

• Strive to achieve.

• Extreme attention to detail in all aspects

• Strong sense of pride in your work

• Strong organization skills

• Proficient at multi-tasking

• Be able to think on your feet in a quick changing environment.

DUTIES FOR THIS POSITION WILL INCLUDE:

• Must love people. Be the first happy, energetic face greeting the guests as they arrive.

• Retail sales with growth to maintain inventory and ordering stock.

• Answering phones, making sales and reservations, and exuding your energy as you help them plan their vacation.

• Greeting and signing in guests

• Taking payments, entering and balancing daily income

• Answering email inquiries with thoroughness, accuracy, detail and passion.

• Possibility to fill in as an eco guide including snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding if you have interest in this. Training provided.

• Troubleshooting and thinking ahead

THIS POSITION REQUIRES THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS:

• Good understanding of the tourism industry and a passion for protecting the environment

• Mature, self motivated, outgoing, honest, and energetic

• Must be able to work long days, weekdays, weekends and holidays. Remain flexible.

• Must speak fluent English, any other languages and asset.

An Application, REGISTERED PR 17986 by TCIRFU PROPERTY LTD. for DETAILED DEVELOPMENT PERMISSION for the construction of a Townhouse and Apartment Development - Buildings 1 and 2 consisting of Eight (8) Two-Bedroom Units and Two (2) Three-Bedroom Units Each; Building 3 consisting of Twelve (12) Two-Bedroom Units, One (1) ThreeBedroom and One (1) Four-Bedroom Unit)/Gym/Restaurant/Swimming Pool with Decks/Six Foot High Chain Link Fence/Ancillary Facilities has been submitted to the Department of Planning on Block & Parcel 60905/176 which comprises of 2.57 acres of land located in The Village, Grace Bay, Providenciales. The proposed development is inconsistent with a plan which has been approved.

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of publication of this Notice. You may also make representation(s) via in person or video conferencing at the sitting of the Physical Planning Board when this application would be considered. If you are desirous so to do via video conferencing or in person, contact the Secretary of Physical Planning Board.

• Attention to detail is key.

• Excellent multi- tasking skills while staying focused.

• Minimum high school graduate with strength in math

• 3 years retail sales experience with desire to ensure sales are met, tracked and accurate.

• 3 years front desk/reception experience at a high level of efficiency, thinking outside the box, pride and passion for the job.

• Experience with QuickBooks POS and all Microsoft applications

• Experience and willingness in ordering, maintaining and stocking retail an asset

MECHANIC DUMP TRUCK DRIVER

DOMESTIC WORKER

•

• Salary $650 per week 40 hours a week

• Mornings, evenings, holidays and weekends

• Must speak and write English and Spanish

• Ability to assist me in work at restaurant during the day and evening

• Abilities to check in deliveries made to restaurant

• Ability to supervise gardeners and other staff in preparation for day to day maintenance Belonger only need apply

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

1 KITCHEN HELPER

• Preparing meal ingredients for the cook, which includes washing, peeling, cutting, and slicing ingredients.

• Properly washing and drying all dishes, utensils, cooking instruments and cutting boards.

• Neatly putting away all utensils and equipment in their respective places.

•

•

• Packing

• Removing

KEY

SALARY:

•

• Excellent communication skills in English with the ability to write legibly; ability to do simple calculations to re-order and maintain

BEACH ATTENDANT ASSISTANT COOK

working in a luxury 5-star hotel/resort. Have a good grasp of the English language to be able to speak with others using clear and professional language. Have a pleasant and professional demeanor to develop and maintain positive working relationships with others. Comply with quality assurance expectations and standards. Must be able to stand for long periods of time and carry up to 25lbs. Oversee water activities on the beach; respond appropriately in the event of an emergency, and provide assistance to injured guests. Must be familiar with Microsoft Office, POS and inventory control systems. Able to work long hours, weekends & holidays. Salary: $8/hr. Position held by work permit holder

and

DOMESTIC WORKER YARD WORKER

BABYSITTER LABOURER

PERSONAL BANKING OFFICER

The Personal Banking Officer (PBO) contributes to the general success of the team by achieving individual portfolio management and/or sales objectives, for which he must satisfy the financial needs of the assigned personal banking clients by providing practical advice and superior service. Additionally, the Personal Banking Officer (PBO) will identify opportunities to refer clients to other areas of the Bank (Premium Banking, Small Business Banking, Wealth Management, Insurance, Corporate and Commercial Banking) and comply with all operating policies and regulations.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Champions a customer focused culture to deepen client relationships and leverage broader bank relationships, systems, and knowledge.

• Meet or exceed weekly, monthly, and annual sales targets across all product categories and channels.

• Support the acquisition and retention of mid-market customers. Personal Banking Officers who receive a portfolio of affluent clients should focus their effort on that segment.

• Identify opportunities to send referrals to relationship officers in other segments or lines of business.

• Consistently deliver a superior customer experience in all customer interactions to meet portfolio Net Promoter Score goals and support the objective of the Customer Satisfaction survey.

• Carry out its responsibilities in terms of compliance and security of the branch, as indicated in the Manual of Services and Procedures for Branches.

• Maintain a constant commitment to personal development and promote a positive teamwork environment.

• Understand how the Bank’s risk appetite and risk culture should be considered in day-to-day activities and decisions.

• Actively pursues effective and efficient operations of their respective areas, while ensuring the adequacy, adherence to and effectiveness of day-today business controls to meet obligations with respect to operational risk, regulatory compliance risk, AML/ATF risk and conduct risk, including but not limited to responsibilities under the Operational Risk Management Framework, Regulatory Compliance Risk Management Framework, AML/ ATF Global Handbook, and the Guidelines for Business Conduct.

• Champions a high-performance environment and implements a people strategy that attracts, retains, develops and motivates their team by fostering an inclusive work environment, communicating vison/values/ business strategy and managing succession and development planning for the team.

SKILLS REQUIRED

• 2 Years experience in the banking sector in sales, operations, or other relevant area

• Excellent communication and presentation skills (oral and written)

• Basic knowledge of laws and regulations of the banking sector

• Undergraduate degree in Banking & Finance, Business Administration, Management Studies, Accounting, or other relevant discipline.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

This is a high responsibility, high stress, results driven position whereby the candidate will be in day-to-day supervisory charge of BOTH backoffice business functions as well as representing and developing the global sales force for both Institutional and High Net Worth Clientele. Analyzing and developing innovative and complex investment products, specifically designed to minimize investment risk, to be marketed to the firm’s clientele is essential for success within this performance-based position. The candidate will be expected to report directly to the Board of Directors with daily detailed, thoroughly analyzed reports on business operations, profit and loss, and product/sales performance.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• CFA – Chartered Financial Analyst Designation

• Recognized Four Year University Business Degree

• Minimum 25 Years Investment Management Experience With both Institutional and High Net Worth Clientele

• Advanced experience with Equity and Fixed Income investment and risk analysis including complex derivative strategies surrounding those investment classes

• Qualify as a director of a licensed financial services provider under the requirements of the FSC Turks & Caicos Islands

OTHER:

• Hours of work will include holidays, evenings, Saturdays and Sundays. The candidate is expected to be readily available at any time.

• Must Be Willing & Able to Extensively Travel (Visa Free) Globally (at the employee’s cost)

• This Position is Enumerated through a Salary & Commission Combination

• Salary Is Commensurate With Experience & Qualifications

• A Significant Amount of Total Compensation Will Be Commission Based On Actual Sales Performance Results

be required to

analytical effectiveness.

PUBLIC NOTICE

BUTLER SUPERVISOR

Minimum of 5 years of experience in a luxury resort. Greet and check in guest. Make dining and entertainment arrangements. Keep guest rooms up to the hotel and guest standards. Anticipate guests’ needs by learning their preferences, allergies, dislikes, etc. Salary $25,200 per annum.

CHEF DE PARTIE

Minimum of 5 years of experience in a luxury resort environment. Run and supervise any kitchen section to the required standards. Ensure all preparation of the designated section is complete and ready for each service. Comply with all health and safety regulations, staff code of conduct and company policies. Must be self-motivated and have a passion for hospitality and cooking. Effective time management, pay attention to details. Salary $24,000 per annum.

Engineering Technologist: Minimum of 5 years in a luxury resort. Design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacture of electrical equipment. Manage engineering projects and deliver them on time. Ensure that installations and applications are in line with needs and safety standards. Summarize data and report on test results. Salary $36,000 per annum.

HOMEOWNER ASSET MANAGER

Minimum of 10 years of experience in a luxury resort environment. Responsible for the day-to-day management of 37 private homes on the Island. Provide the first point of contact for all homeowner’s request and arrival and departure information, boats and vehicles, supplies and asset maintenance. Coordinate and oversee administration of Pine Cay residential operation. Build a strong relationship with owners and other stakeholders to understand their needs, address their concerns and provide customer service. Develop and implement a preventive and corrective maintenance program. Plan and document routine preventative maintenance and minor emergency electrical repairs, plumbing, sewage, construction and street repairs. Prepare all facilities maintenance-related logs in accordance with the operations manual. Oversee logistics, purchasing and sourcing of Island supplies, including coordinating with consolidator, barge and freight operations, receiving and customs. Coordinate with governmental and other external agencies as needed for safe, effective and compliant residential and resort operation. Be involved in budget planning and financial management. Promote sustainability and energy efficiency within the properties under its responsibility. Salary $48,000 per annum.

K-9 DOG HANDLER SECURITY

Patrol Cay with K9 security dogs. Train and care for the dogs. Security baggage checks at the docks. Monitor and review security cameras. Respond to incidents at all hours. Work weekends, holidays and evenings. Must have emergency first responder training and firefighting training. Utilize K9’s to search

for, apprehend and safely detain persons involved in or attempting criminal behavior. Protect all property of island, homeowners, guests and staff. Minimum of 5 years’ experience in military or law enforcement. Ability to read, write, understand and speak English to ensure comprehension and effective communication with others. Good health and physical condition. Have a good employment record and a clean police record check. Ability to work with and learn computer software. Salary 22,000 per annum.

MAÎTRE D’

Minimum of 5 years of experience in a luxury resort environment. Assist in running the dining room operation and managing the front of house staff. Greet guests and create a professional and positive image. Assist in preparing the menus and creating new dishes. Wine knowledge and pairing and fine dining table services. Knowledge of dining etiquette and health and safety standards. Exceptional customer service skills, good communication skills, able to work as a team and pay attention to details. Salary $21,600 per annum.

MIXOLOGIST

Maximum of 5 years’ experience in a luxury resort environment. Serve guests and homeowners a variety of beverages. Ensure the bar is run efficiently and maintain guest satisfaction. Keep up with industry trends and be able to create new and unique drink recipes. Vast knowledge of bar beverages, wines, alcohol pairing and taste. Must be detailed orientation, well organized with advanced verbal and written communication skills, adapt quickly, multitask and work under pressure. Must do some heavy lifting. Salary $26,400 per annum.

PASTRY CHEF

More than 5 years of experience in a luxury resort kitchen. Must prepare a wide variety of pastries along with creating new and exciting desserts. Decorate pastries using various of toppings or icings. Must have in-depth knowledge of sanitation principles, food preparation and baking techniques and nutrition. Working knowledge of baking with ingredient limitations, dietary restrictions and food allergies. Must be detailed orientation. Certificate in culinary arts, pastry-making, baking or relevant field. Salary is $30,000 per annum.

VEHICLE MECHANIC

Minimum of 5 years of experience in a luxury resort environment. In charge of all mechanical maintenance/repairs. Diagnose problems with vehicle engines, transmission components, fuel systems, electrical systems, brakes, and other parts of the cart. Maintain, install and repair equipment. Ability to read specifications and installation instructions. Excellent interpersonal skills with ability to build internal relationships and deliver exceptional service to customers. Excellent organization prioritizing skills. Salary 30,000 per annum.

CARPENTER

STEEL FABRICATOR

GARDENER

HANDYMAN

CONTACT:

We are seeking a seasoned, personable, and dependable Guest Relations and Service Trainer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a proven background in guest service, social marketing and measurable performance metrics. With an increasing number of South American and European clients, fluency in English, Portuguese, French, Italian and Spanish is essential. The successful candidate will overseas all guest relations, providing training for concierges, assist with staff scheduling, and deliver guest-facing service training for house staff to meet or exceed expectations. Additionally, they will lead customer marketing initiatives and provide support to the reservations team. Experience in high-end hospitability, particularly in luxury hotels, is preferred, as this role is to critical to creating memorable guest experiences from initial inquiry through departure.

• Design, improve, and implement a comprehensive training program for guest relations, emphasizing emotional hospitality.

• Develop, manage and track revenue opportunities within the concierge department.

• Create and monitor guest satisfaction metrics.

• Plan and excuse events for high-profile guests.

• Engage with customers through social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to enhance customer and in-person interactions.

• Problem-solving in high-pressure situations with creativity and agility.

• Craft luxurious, tailored itineraries and experiences for discerning guests.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

• Degree in Hospitality, Business Management

• Additional certifications such as tourism marketing, event planning, travel planning, and customer service, training programs and CPR / Red Cross certification are required.

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in luxury hospitality, preferably in five-star hotels or high-end accommodations.

• Proven experience organizing high-end events and social marketing campaigns to attract and retain guests.

• Proficiency in developing guest-focused social marketing campaigns.

• Demonstrated expertise in guest service training and staff development.

• Fluency in English, Spanish, Italian, French and Portuguese is strongly preferred.

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple task, and maintain composure under pressure.

NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 242(1) of the Companies Ordinance 2017 that on the 31st day of October 2024 the Company’s members passed a written resolution in accordance with Section 237(3)(b) of the Companies Ordinance 2017 that the Company be placed into voluntary liquidation and to appoint Bernd G. Wolf ofTwa Marcelin Wolf, Attorneys at Law, Chancery Court, 1276 Leeward Highway, Providenciales, P.O. Box 209, Turks and Caicos Islands as Voluntary Liquidator.

NOTICE is further given that any Creditors of the Company are required to provide details of their debts and claims to the Voluntary Liquidator of the Company by the close of business on the 2nd day of December 2024. Any creditor who fails to provide the Voluntary Liquidator with full details of his, her or its claim by close of business on the specified date, or to provide such additional information as may be requested by the Voluntary Liquidator, will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts are proved.

DOMESTIC WORKER

CARPENTER

LABOURER

STORE CLERK

2 SECURITY OFFICERS RECEPTIONIST

2 THERAPIST

3 CLEANERS 3 INVENTORY CLERK

MAINTENANCE MANAGER

Reporting Supervisor: Project Manager

JOB PURPOSE:

The Maintenance Manager is responsible for managing the resort’s maintenance operation and performing highly diversified maintenance duties in support of the organization’s business goals and objectives.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

1. Plans, organizes, and manages the resort’s maintenance operations, which includes, but is not limited to: troubleshooting, installing, repairing and maintaining and monitoring the resort’s physical plant, utilities, health and safety systems and facilities (buildings – internal/external, restaurant, recreational, laundry, waste water treatment plant, lift stations and pumps, and filtration systems, pools), parking lots and pathways, grounds, vehicles (company vehicles, golf carts, bicycles), and related equipment

2. Works closely with the resort’s leadership to plan, develop and execute the organization’s short and long-term maintenance strategies. Provides leadership and vision to the maintenance department; coaches and supports the team; liaises with other department heads to ensure maintenance needs are met

3. Assigns, leads, directs, and performs maintenance tasks

4. Determines work procedures, prepares work schedules and expedites workflow

5. Monitors and manages the maintenance of the resort’s electrical, water, propane, pool, and waste water treatment plant in collaboration with the relevant providers, owners and management

6. Regularly reviews processes and procedures and amends as necessary to increase productivity and improve efficiencies

7. Collaborates with subcontractors on maintenance projects initiated by OCR and condo owners; inspects contractor work and ensures resort’s quality standards are maintained

8. Communicates with owners, guests, management and co-workers in a timely manner regarding maintenance needs, which may include assessing maintenance needs, obtaining/providing service, labor or parts/

equipment quotes, taking photographs of damages, conducting inventory of unit as necessary

9. Manages, mentors and trains staff; establishes performance guidelines; evaluates departmental/staff performance; executes disciplinary actions as necessary in consultation and collaboration with the Project Manager and Human Resources Manager

10. Ensures maintenance policies and procedures are kept current and applicable

11. Audits and submits time, expense and work order reports to the accounting department as required

12. Responds to inquiries relative to maintenance issues, concerns, requests, procedures and projects in a timely manner

13. Assists in the assessment of vendors/ contractors for resort/project consideration, then manages and monitors their standards of performance and work

14. Ensures maintenance team and other departments have cohesive working relationships

15. Ensures departmental compliance with the policies, procedures and guidelines of Ocean Club Resorts and TCIG health and safety regulations

16. Performs other duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor or any other person authorized to give instructions or assignments

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

1. To perform this job successfully, individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily

2. High School Diploma, appropriate resort or building industry trade certification, plus relevant education and 3-5 years supervisory experience, preferably in a resort environment

3. Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate others

4. Thorough knowledge of hotel maintenance procedures, operations and equipment

5. Self-motivated and dependable with a strong work ethic and good problem solving skills

6. Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to speak, read and write fluently in English language

7. Professional appearance and demeanor

8. Computer literate with proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook

Science & Technology

Daily walks could help you live over a decade longer

According to a study published online on November 14, 2024, in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, getting less physical activity is linked with premature death.

However, the researchers found that increasing physical activity — for example, taking daily walks — could extend how long people live.

If people were as active as the top one-quarter of Americans, they could live around 5 years longer.

Additionally, if people who are among the least active brought their activity up to this level, they might add an additional 11 years to their lives.

The authors further speculated that infrastructure changes like walkable neighbourhoods and

green spaces, which help promote activities like biking and walking, could lead to greater longevity within the general population.

To conduct their study, the researchers gathered data from people older than age 40, which was collected via activity trackers for the 2003-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

They also used 2019 U.S. Census data as well as 2017 death data gleaned from the National Center for Health Statistics.

The team then created a mathematical model to predict how different levels of physical activity could influence how long people lived.

They found that the 25%

Researchers found that increasing physical activity — for example, taking daily walks — could extend how long people live

of individuals who were most active engaged in activity levels equivalent to walking 160 minutes every day at a pace of 3 mph.

Based on this, they estimated that if all people boosted their activity to this level, they could

increase their life expectancy from 78.6 to 84 years — an increase of over 5 years. However, being in the lowest 25% of activity was associated with a decrease in life expectancy of around 6 years.

If these less active individuals logged an additional 111 minutes of walking each day, though, they could conceivably experience even greater benefits, living nearly 11 years longer.

COVID-19 virus could attack cancer cells and shrink tumors, new study suggests

COVID-19 can cause a long list of health issues, including flu symptoms, respiratory problems and even organ damage, according to medical experts — but a new study suggests that the virus could have a surprising impact on cancer.

The study, which was published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation on Friday, found that COVID infection was linked to cancer regression, which could serve as a foundation for new cancer treatments in the future.

The SARS-CoV-2 virus — which causes COVID — is made up of RNA (ribonucleic acid), a molecule that is found in all living cells.

In the study, RNA was found to “trigger the development of a unique type of immune cell with anti-cancer properties,” according to a press release from the Northwestern Medicine Canning Thoracic Institute in Chicago.

The newly created immune cells were able to move into the blood vessels and tumors — something typical immune cells cannot do.

“These killer cells then swarm the tumor and start attacking the cancer cells directly, helping to

shrink the tumor,” noted senior author Ankit Bharat, MD, chief of thoracic surgery at Northwestern Medicine, in the release.

This effect was activated by severe COVID-19, the researchers found, and was specifically seen to be effective against melanoma, lung cancer, breast cancer and colon cancer.

“This discovery opens up a new avenue for cancer treatment,” Bharat said in the release.

“It offers hope that we might be able to use this approach to benefit patients with advanced cancers who have not responded to other treatments.”

EARLY FINDINGS WARRANT MORE RESEARCH

This finding has so far only been seen in animal models.

“We are in the early stages, but the potential to transform cancer

treatment is there,” Bharat said in the release.

“Our next steps will involve clinical trials to see if we can safely and effectively use these findings to help cancer patients.”

Dr Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Health and senior medical analyst for Fox News, pointed out that while this is “not a cancer cure and was only seen in mice,” the study does have some significance.

“It reminds us that viruses cause inflammation and rev up the immune system, which can either increase your risk of certain cancers or, paradoxically, cause certain cancers to shrink by activating immune cells against them,” Siegel, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital.

Dr. Jacob Glanville, CEO of Centivax, a San Francisco biotechnology company, also was not involved in the study but said he wasn’t surprised by the findings.

“There’s a known history of this phenomenon of ‘spontaneous regression’ following an infection with a high fever in multiple illnesses, dating back as far as doctors have been identifying cancer,” he told Fox News Digital.

“Normally, the immune system can tell there’s something wrong with cancerous tissue, but cancers develop various mutations to hold the immune system back from attacking them,” Glanville went on.

“The presumed mechanism is that a major inflammation event like an infection can tip the scales toward activating the immune system against cancer.” (Foxnews)

The Covid-19 virus’s RNA was found to trigger the development of a unique type of immune cell with anti-cancer properties

Science & Technology

Being aerobically fit in middle age may reduce Alzheimer’s and dementia risk, study says

Doing more aerobic exercise in middle age and old age may reduce the risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, a new study found.

“Our study underscores the critical role of cardiovascular fitness in reducing dementia risk, even for those genetically predisposed to Alzheimer’s disease,” said Weili Xu, a professor in the Aging Research Center at Karolinska Institute in Stockholm.

“Encouraging gradual fitness improvements offers a practical and impactful way to support brain health across diverse populations,” Xu, senior author of the study, said in an email.

Overall, people in the best cardiorespiratory shape had better cognitive function and only a 0.6% relative long-term risk for dementia compared to those who were not so fit — a benefit that delayed the onset of dementia by 1.5 years, according to the study.

Cardiorespiratory endurance, which is developed by regular aerobic exercise, boosts oxygen uptake in the lungs and heart and helps people sustain high-intensity activities over an extended period without getting tired.

The study found an even bigger benefit was seen for people with a genetic predisposition for Alzheimer’s —those with the most cardiorespiratory endurance had a 35% lower relative risk of developing the disease.

“There is a saying — genes are not our destiny; we can all make proactive choices to help win the tug-of-war against our genes. This study wholly supports that,” said preventive neurologist Dr. Richard Isaacson, director of research at the Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases in Florida, who was not involved in the study.

“I’ve always considered exercise like a miracle ‘drug’ that has brain-boosting effects,” Isaacson said in an email.

“While in this study higher fitness alone delayed onset of dementia by 1.5 years, we can do even better by also following a healthy diet, managing cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar, getting regular hearing and vision checks, and prioritising sleep.”

THE IMPORTANCE OF CARDIORESPIRATORY FITNESS

Studies show a low level of cardiorespiratory fitness is a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease such as heart attacks and premature death from all causes, including

cancer, according to studies. Without effort, however, cardiorespiratory fitness declines as people age. According to a scientific statement by the American Heart Association, it declines at a rate of 3% to 6% during people’s 20s and 30s and increases to a rate of more than 20% per decade in their 70s and beyond.

The new study, published Tuesday in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, analysed data on over 61,00 dementia-free people aged 39 to 70 years who enrolled in the UK Biobank, a longitudinal study of over half a million UK citizens.

A baseline test of cardiorespiratory fitness was made when people first enrolled between 2009 and 2010, along with tests of cognitive function and genetic risk. Twelve years later researchers looked to see if there was a connection between the group’s fitness more than a decade

prior and any current diagnosis of dementia.

“This study found a dosedependent — meaning more was better — effect of exercise fitness on several critical types of cognitive performance,” Isaacson said. “Across different types of memory, such as recalling specific words and numbers or remembering to perform a planned future action, like making an appointment, cardiorespiratory fitness can really move the needle.”

Being aerobically fit can also improve how fast the brain thinks, as in how fast words and ideas can travel from point A to point B in the brain, he added.

“To use a car analogy, the more fit a person is, the more effectively they can shift into higher mental gear and the faster they can go,” Isaacson said.

LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

The study was observational,

which means no direct cause and effect can be determined, said cardiologist Dr Valentin Fuster, president of Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital and physician-inchief of Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.

The study’s results should also be interpreted with caution due to the health concerns of people who were low in cardiorespiratory fitness, said Fuster, who is a former president of the American Heart Association and World Heart Federation.

“When you look at the groups of patients who had low cardiovascular respiratory fitness versus those who had moderate or high fitness, there is something very striking,” Fuster said. “It was those with low fitness who had more hypertension, more diabetes, high cholesterol and more obesity.”

All of those health conditions are triggers for cardiovascular disease and damage to small blood vessels, including those in the brain, he

said. The study showed that people with high cardiorespiratory fitness were more likely to take care of themselves, and therefore protect the heart-brain connection.

“This is critical for the future, this heart brain connection,” Fuster said. “The same risk factors that affect cardiovascular disease may play a role in the development of vascular dementia, and even there is some data suggesting they play a role in the acceleration of the Alzheimer’s disease.”

HOW TO BUILD AEROBIC FITNESS

What’s the best way to increase your cardiorespiratory fitness and protect your heart and brain? Pick an aerobic exercise and do it at an intensity that takes your breath and makes it hard to hold a conversation, experts say.

“An aerobic exercise is either with a bicycle with low resistance, a treadmill with low resistance, or walking in the street at a reasonable speed — but do it for at least half an hour, five days a week,” Fuster said. Other options include vigorous dancing, hiking, jogging, running, rowing, stair climbing or swimming. Team sports such as basketball, soccer and hockey will also raise the heart rate and boost oxygen flow. High-intensity interval training, in which high intensity exercise is mixed with activity at a lower intensity, can boost cardiovascular endurance by up to 79%, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

There are other benefits as well — exercise helps with weight loss, mood stabilisation and good sleep. It can also lengthen your life. (CNN)

Diabetes drugs could help you drink less

Researchers have uncovered promising evidence that certain diabetes medications, specifically GLP-1 receptor agonists, might help reduce alcohol consumption.

Analysing data from trials involving over 88,000 participants, researchers found that while results vary, certain individuals, especially those with obesity, may benefit significantly from these medications.

New research from the University of Nottingham suggests that some diabetes medications may help reduce alcohol consumption. The study, published on November

14 in eClinicalMedicine, focused on a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) to see if they could support individuals in cutting back on drinking.

Led by Dr. Mohsen Subhani, Clinical Assistant Professor of Gastroenterology at the NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, in the School of Medicine, at the University of Nottingham. The research was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and the NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre.

The team conducted a thorough review of existing studies to explore the impact of GLP-1 RAs on alcohol use, examining changes in drinking behavior and related outcomes.

PROMISING RESULTS FROM INITIAL TRIALS

They gathered studies up to August 2024 that examined whether GLP1 RAs affect alcohol use, alcoholrelated health problems, hospital visits, and brain reactions to alcohol cues. The team evaluated six articles, including two randomized control trials made

up of 88,190 participants, of these 38,740 (43.9%) of participants received GLP-1RA.

Dr. Subhani said: “Our findings show that this type of diabetes medication shows promise in reducing alcohol consumption, potentially by targeting the brain’s reward center, especially in people with a BMI over 30.”

THE KEY FINDINGS:

In one main study, the medication exenatide did not significantly reduce drinking overall after six months, but people with obesity showed some positive results.

Overall, people in the best cardiorespiratory shape had better cognitive function

Science & Technology

As “walking pneumonia” spreads, ER visits surge for sick babies

Rates of emergency room visits for babies with Mycoplasma pneumoniae are on track to surpass rates for school-age children, data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows, as doctors nationwide are grappling with a surge of “walking pneumonia” cases.

The new figures come from the CDC’s National Syndromic Surveillance Program, which gathers data on pneumoniaassociated emergency room visits from U.S. hospitals.

While cases had been higher in school-age kids compared to other age groups, rates in babies have surged in recent weeks, and are now tied with older kids.

According to the latest CDC data, for the week ending Nov. 2, 7.6% of emergency department pneumonia cases for babies 0-1 years old and children ages 5-17 years old resulted in Mycoplasma pneumoniae diagnoses.

“These diagnoses dropped a little after August, but remained high through early November. Of

Cases have been higher in school-age kids compared to other age groups

note, diagnoses among 0–1-yearolds have steadily increased throughout the fall without any subsequent decrease,” CDC spokesperson Jasmine Reed said in a statement Tuesday.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, cases largely disappeared. CDC officials had said that this year’s wave could be heralding a return to waves of Mycoplasma pneumoniae cases that occurred prior to the pandemic.

But this year’s trend has also been unusual, since cases had previously been thought to be common only in school-aged kids,

Can we slow down aging? New biomarker shows promise

Scientists from CAS and BGI Research found that immunoglobulins are both drivers and markers of aging, with IgG accumulation inducing aging across tissues.

A research team from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and BGI Research has unveiled the complex mechanisms through which immunoglobulins impact the aging process, a discovery that could transform our understanding of aging.

This research, published in Cell on November 4, not only charts a high-precision map of aging across various organs but also reveals the dual-edged sword of immunoglobulins in systemic aging.

The quest for systemic biomarkers and key drivers of aging has been a long-standing puzzle in the field of gerontology. This study, a collaborative effort between Guanghui Liu’s team from the Institute of Zoology (IOZ) of CAS, Ying Gu’s team from BGI Research, Weiqi’s Zhang team from the Beijing Institute of Genomics of CAS, and Jing Qu’s

team also from IOZ, has provided compelling answers.

By meticulously analyzing millions of spatial spots across nine organs in male mice, the team created high-precision spatial transcriptomic maps. These maps detailed the spatial distribution of over 70 cell types, offering a vivid picture of aging’s spatial characteristics.

GERONTOLOGICAL

GEOGRAPHY AND AGING HALLMARKS

The transcriptomic landscape, dubbed Gerontological Geography (GG), exposes the common threads of tissue structural disorder and loss of cellular identity as hallmarks of aging.

“This landscape is a significant step forward, pinpointing the epicenters of aging within multiple organs and uncovering the accumulation of immunoglobulins as a key aging characteristic and driver,” said Professor LIU, one of the corresponding authors of the study.

Using the novel method of organizational structure entropy

states first began to raise concerns over the surge — the ERs of three regions specifically are seeing the highest levels of the bacteria.

One is in the South and spans Texas and its neighbors Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and New Mexico. The second is in the Midwest and includes Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska. The third is in the Northeast and includes New York and New Jersey.

not younger children.

“While we are seeing right now that it is presenting as a typical respiratory infection, we want to make sure that there isn’t something unusual going on with the bacteria itself or the way it’s showing up that might give guidance in how to treat and prevent it,” Dr. Adam Cohen, head of the CDC’s pneumonia branch, told Medscape News earlier this month.

According to Reed, while every U.S. region is seeing an increase in Mycoplasma pneumoniae cases, the CDC’s data suggests that since at least last month — when several

“Maybe it’s another one of those things that we didn’t see, got really suppressed during COVID, and now it’s coming back,” said Dr. Jennifer Nayak, division chief of pediatric infectious disease at Golisano Children’s Hospital in New York. “It just is definitely a really bad year for Mycoplasma.”

Nayak said that around a quarter of tests from the hospital’s microbiology lab have come in positive for the bacteria, which she says is unusually high.

The hospital has also seen an increase in patients needing to be hospitalized for the bacteria

and who are battling a range of conditions — from lung issues to more complicated neurological complications — though they remain a fraction of overall cases.

“We’ve definitely seen more kids on the seriously ill side of the spectrum,” Nayak said. “Likely not because the bacteria has changed, but because our rates overall are just higher.”

She cautioned that while the recent increase has been unusual, there has not been a lot of data tracking the disease, so comparisons to previous waves of the bacteria have been challenging.

“Our tracking of Mycoplasma infections is suboptimal,” Nayak said. “This is not something that is reportable to health departments. It has not, until relatively recently, been closely tracked.”

A spokesperson for the New York State Department of Health said that it has also tracked a “marked increase” in Mycoplasma pneumoniae based on data from the state’s emergency rooms, compared to previous years.

(OSE) analysis, the researchers discovered that increased spatial structural disorder and loss of cellular identity are universal signs of systemic aging, suggesting that spatial structural damage may be a primary cause of organ functional decline during aging.

The team also identified senescence-sensitive spots (SSS), which are structural regions in different tissues more susceptible to aging’s effects. They found that areas closer to SSS exhibit higher tissue structural entropy and greater loss of cellular identity, indicating that SSS could be the nucleus of organ aging.

ROLE OF IMMUNOGLOBULINS IN AGING

Notably, in immune organs, plasma

cells, which are responsible for antibody synthesis, and cells with specific structures and functions, are the main components of the SSS microenvironment. The expression levels of immunoglobulin-related genes in these cells increase around SSS.

The study further discovered that immunoglobulin G (IgG) accumulates in multiple tissues and organs during aging in humans and mice, suggesting that IgG levels could serve as a new biomarker for aging. Moreover, IgG was found to directly induce aging in human and mouse macrophages and microglia, releasing inflammatory factors. Intriguingly, injecting IgG into young mice induced aging in multiple tissues and organs, demonstrating its potent aging effects.

In a promising development, the team developed an intervention strategy using antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) to reduce IgG content in mouse tissues, thereby delaying the aging of multiple organs.

This study is the first to map the spatial transcriptome of panorgan aging in mammals, revealing tissue structural disorder and loss of cellular identity as key aging hallmarks and precisely locating the core regions and microenvironmental characteristics of aging sensitivity.

The Immunoglobulin-associated Senescence Phenotype (IASP) proposed by the study expands the frontiers of aging science and opens new avenues for delaying aging and preventing related diseases. (Scitechdaily)

Slowing down the rate of aging has been a desire of mankind throughout the ages

Sports International

Retiring Nadal’s career over after Spain’s Davis Cup defeat

Rafael Nadal’s illustrious career came to an end as Spain lost to the Netherlands in the Davis Cup on an emotional night in Malaga.

Spanish great Nadal, who has won 22 Grand Slam titles, recently announced the men’s team event would be the last of his career.

In front of a packed, partisan crowd, 38-year-old Nadal lost 6-4 6-4 to Botic van de Zandschulp as the Netherlands took an early lead in the best-of-three quarter-final tie.

Carlos Alcaraz, who has taken over the mantle as Spain’s leading player, beat Tallon Griekspoor 7-6 (7-0) 6-3 in the second singles match to keep Nadal’s hopes of another potential farewell appearance alive.

But Alcaraz and Marcel Granollers were beaten 7-6 (7-4) 7-6 (7-3) by Van de Zandschulp and Wesley Koolhof in the deciding doubles.

“It has been 20 years of a professional career in which you have carried me through the good times, and in the bad you pushed me to keep playing,” Nadal told the crowd.

“I want to congratulate the Netherlands and thank the whole Spanish team that is here, who have let me play the Davis Cup again, which has not gone as we all wanted. I have given everything I had.

“The truth is that you never want to get to this point. I’m not tired of playing tennis but my body doesn’t want to play anymore and you have to accept that. I feel super privileged, I’ve been able to make my hobby my profession for a long time.”

HOW NADAL, FELLOW SUPERSTARS AND FANS SAID GOODBYE

Nadal, who had been watching from the bench with the rest of the Spanish team, hopped on to court to console Alcaraz and Granollers.

Both looked despondent as they sat with their heads bowed, listening to the victorious Dutch players celebrating reaching the semi-finals.

Many stayed in the 11,500-capacity Palacio de Deportes arena, chanting “Rafa, Rafa, Rafa” for one final time as they waited for Koolhof and Van de Zandschulp to conclude a postmatch interview.

When the moment came for Nadal to take centre stage, he was given another standing ovation and a round of applause lasting over a minute.

Nadal’s family, including his wife Mery, young son Rafael junior, parents Ana Maria and Sebastian and sister Maribel, were present in the stands.

Long-time members of his backroom team wore T-shirts depicting the logo of the ‘Raging Bull’ which became his moniker, inspired by his indomitable fighting spirit.

After finishing a heartfelt speech in Spanish, the main lights dimmed and a spotlight surrounded Nadal.

He stared at the court for a few moments, chewing his lip as he fought back the tears.

The next part of the celebration was a video montage of career highlights and personal messages from sporting superstars, including tennis legends Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Serena Williams and Andy Murray, along with footballers David Beckham, Andres Iniesta and Raul, and golfer Sergio Garcia.

Another elongated spell of applause followed before he walked off the court, blowing kisses on the way, for the final time

to test robot umpires as part of challenge system at next Spring training

Major League Baseball (MLB) will test the use of robot umpires as part of a challenge system during Spring training next year, with the aim of implementing the system in the 2026 regular season.

The automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge system will be trialed at 13 ballparks hosting 19 teams in 2025 to allow players to experience the new technology as the league works out how best to implement it, according to MLB commissioner Rob Manfred.

“I think we will have a Spring training ABS test that will provide

a meaningful opportunity for all Major League players to see what the challenge system will look like,” Manfred said on Wednesday at the league’s owners meetings.

“It won’t be in every single ballpark, but we actually have a plan where every team will get meaningful exposure to that.”

He also said that there are ongoing conversations between the MLB and the Umpires Association in relation to the new technology, with their collective bargaining agreement set to expire on December 1 this year, per the Associated Press.

“We do have a collective bargaining obligation there. That’s obviously a term and condition of employment. We’re going to have to work through that issue, as well,” Manfred said.

Although Manfred admitted that he “would be interested” in bringing in the ABS challenge system for the 2026 regular season, the commissioner added that the players’ experience with it will go a long way in deciding when it will be implemented.

“It depends on how the test goes,” Manfred said. “From my

supporters chanting his name.

“Of course it has been an emotional day and I felt nerves before the match,” Nadal said.

“I tried my best, I tried to enjoy and play with the right energy and the right attitude.”

Nadal’s level was understandably far below his best.

Occasionally he showed fizz on his famous forehand, but it was not enough to push his opponent.

In a febrile atmosphere where Van de Zandschulp’s missed first serves were cheered, the 29-yearold Dutchman deserved great credit for staying focused and seeing out an important victory.

“It is tough to close out a match against him, knowing it could be his last,” said Van de Zandschulp.

“I felt I was hoping a bit more than going for it. I went for it and it helped in the end.”

as a professional player.

NADAL ‘TRIED BEST’ IN FINAL MATCH

It had not been certain Nadal would feature in the singles but he was picked by Spain captain David Ferrer despite not playing a competitive match for over three months.

In his pre-tournament news conference, Nadal insisted he would not be distracted by emotion as he aimed to help Spain win the Davis Cup for a sixth time in his career.

That was the theory. In practice, the occasion got to Nadal within minutes of walking out to a thunderous ovation.

Nadal visibly teared up during the Spanish national anthem. His right hand shook uncontrollably.

Once the anthem stopped, he was able to raise his arm into the air and mouthed “Gracias” to the

THE LEGACY

NADAL LEAVES BEHIND

Nadal retires as the second-most successful men’s singles player of all time in terms of Grand Slam victories, behind only long-time rival Novak Djokovic.

Known as the ‘King of Clay’, Nadal lifted the French Open singles title a record 14 times, winning 112 of his 116 major matches at Roland Garros.

No player has won as many Grand Slam singles titles at the same tournament.

Nadal is also a four-time US Open champion and won both the Australian Open and Wimbledon twice.

He won Olympic singles and doubles gold and helped Spain win four Davis Cup finals, most recently in 2019. He also played a part in their 2008 triumph, although injury prevented him featuring in the final. (BBC)

umpires will still call balls and strikes, but teams have a limited number of challenges with which they can appeal on-field decisions. Teams retain the challenge if they are successful.

Rafael Nadal announced last month that the Davis Cup would be the final tournament of his 23-year professional career

The ABS technology has been trialed in minor league baseball for years now

Sports International

‘Everything a manager could wish for’ - Guardiola signs new deal

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says he has “everything a manager could ever wish for” after signing a two-year contract extension to keep him at the club until 2027.

The 53-year-old Spaniard joined City in 2016 and has won 18 trophies, including six Premier League titles.

His contract had been due to expire at the end of the current season.

“Manchester City means so much to me,” Guardiola told the club’s website.

“This is my ninth season here. We have experienced so many amazing times together. I have a really special feeling for this football club.

“I have said this many times before, but I have everything a manager could ever wish for, and I appreciate that so much.

“Hopefully now we can add

more trophies to the ones we have already won. That will be my focus.”

It was reported that Guardiola had agreed a new contract on

Wednesday and the club confirmed the news a day later.

‘HUNGER FOR SUCCESS REMAINS INSATIABLE’

Spirit owner Michele Kang pledges $30 million to US Soccer

Businesswoman and Washington Spirit owner Michele Kang has pledged $30 million to US Soccer, the largest donation ever made to the federation’s women’s and girls’ programmes.

US Soccer hopes that the contribution, which is the most ever pledged to the federation by a woman, will bring 12 times as many players into the US Women’s National Team (USWNT) pipeline, taking the total to 100,000.

The money, which will be spread over the next five years, will also allow US Soccer to double the number of female coaches and referees across the country, the federation said.

Kang, who was last year named by Sports Illustrated as one of the 50 most influential figures in sports, is the first woman of colour to own an NWSL team. As the founder and CEO of Kynisca, the first multiteam global organization dedicated to women’s football, she also owns the London City Lionesses and Olympique Lyonnais Féminin, one of the most successful clubs in women’s soccer history.

“Women’s sports have been undervalued and overlooked for far too long,” Kang said in a press release. “I am committed to raising the standard of excellence in women’s soccer – both on and off the pitch – by delivering the resources female athletes need to reach their full potential

and surround them with the professional support they deserve. I hope this investment serves as ‘seed capital’ and spurs other donors to follow suit.”

“Michele Kang’s gift will transform soccer for women and girls in the United States,” added US Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone. “It will impact generations of women and girls in our game, including players, coaches, and referees.”

The news was also met with praise from USWNT head coach Emma Hayes, who took charge in May this year.

“I believe a gift like this will

During his time in Manchester, Guardiola has helped City become just the second English men’s team to win the Treble - the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League in the same season.

They have also become the first men’s team to win four successive English top-flight titles and to achieve 100 Premier League points in a single campaign.

“Like every City fan, I am delighted that Pep’s journey with Manchester City will continue, allowing his dedication, passion and innovative thinking to continue to shape the landscape of the game,” City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak added.

“His hunger for improvement and success remains insatiable and the direct beneficiaries of that will continue to be our players and coaching staff, the culture of our club, and the English game at large.”

City are second in this season’s Premier League, five points behind leaders Liverpool, and are on a run of four successive defeats across all competitions.

This is the first time Guardiola has endured such a streak of losses - excluding penalty shootouts - in his managerial career.

The Spaniard’s new contract comes as City await the outcome of a disciplinary case brought by the Premier League over 115 charges for alleged breaches of league’s financial rules, which the club deny but could bring a huge sanction if guilt is established.

Guardiola has continually backed the club and said critics need to wait for the final decision in the case before rushing to condemn.

He is the longest-serving manager in the Premier League, after Jurgen Klopp left Liverpool in the summer. (BBC)

Tyson ‘almost died’ months before Paul defeat

change the trajectory of the sport,” said the former Chelsea manager.

“We’re in a pivotal moment for soccer in the US and this will help us support more female players, coaches and referees in the game.”

The donation, which was also commended by tennis legend Billie Jean King, is the third major philanthropic contribution to US Soccer in 14 months. It follows Arthur M. Blank’s pledge of $50 million to US Soccer’s National Training Center in September 2023, and Ken Griffin’s contribution to the hiring of men’s head coach Mauricio Pochettino in September 2024.

Mike Tyson says his defeat by Jake Paul felt like a victory because he “almost died” earlier this year.

The 58-year-old lost to the YouTuber-turned-boxer by a unanimous points decision in the heavily criticised fight in Texas on Friday.

“This is one of those situations when you lost but still won,” Tyson wrote on Instagram.

“I’m grateful for last night. No regrets to get in ring one last time.

“I almost died in June. Had eight blood transfusions. Lost half my blood and 25lbs in hospital and had to fight to get healthy to fight, so I won.”

Fans booed towards the end of the contest, frustrated by the drab

Tyson landed just 18 punches during the eight rounds compared to Paul’s 78 as he lost for the seventh time in 57 fights.

The fight, initially scheduled for July, was postponed in May on medical advice after Tyson suffered from a stomach ulcer flare-up which he has now revealed was more serious than it first appeared.

“To have my children see me stand toe to toe and finish eight rounds with a talented fighter half my age in front of a packed Dallas Cowboy stadium is an experience that no man has the right to ask for,” added Tyson.

“Thank you.” (BBC)

affair.

Pep Guardiola has won 18 trophies since joining Manchester City in 2016

Washington Spirit owner Michele Kang

Mike Tyson’s fight with Jake Paul was postponed in May

Sports International

Bentancur banned for seven games over racial slur

Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur has been given a sevenmatch domestic ban by the Football Association for using a racial slur about team-mate Son Heung-min.

Bentancur, who has also been fined £100,000 and ordered to take part in a mandatory face-toface education programme, was charged by the FA in September after comments made while appearing on TV in his home country of Uruguay in June.

“Rodrigo Bentancur denied this charge, but the independent regulatory commission found it to be proven and imposed his sanctions following a hearing,” said an FA statement.

The 27-year-old will not return to domestic action until 26 December, missing Premier League matches against Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea, among others, plus Spurs’ League Cup quarter-final against Manchester United.

He will still be available for Tottenham’s Europa League matches.

Bentancur has played 15 times for Tottenham this season and scored his first goal of the campaign in a defeat by Ipswich on 11 November.

The incident happened in his own time and so, as he plays in England, fell under the jurisdiction of the FA - unlike the situation involving Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez.

Fernandez was on international

duty when he posted a video - which the French Football Federation (FFF) said included an alleged “racist and discriminatory” chant - of Argentina celebrating winning the Copa America, and is being investigated by world governing body Fifa.

WHAT DID BENTANCUR SAY?

When charging the Uruguay international the FA said it was “an alleged breach of FA rule E3 for misconduct in relation to a media interview”.

The FA said this constituted an “aggravated breach... as it included a reference, whether express or

Double Olympic champion Brownlee

Double Olympic triathlon champion Alistair Brownlee has announced his retirement from the sport aged 36.

Brownlee won gold at London 2012 before defending his title in Rio four years later.

A world champion in 2009 and 2011, Brownlee is the only triathlete to be crowned junior world champion, U23 world champion, European champion and Olympic champion.

“Triathlon has profoundly shaped my life. I have dedicated nearly half of it to being a professional athlete, fulfilling my childhood dream and achieving far more than I ever dared to imagine,” Brownlee wrote on X.

Brownlee’s first Games came in

2008 in Beijing, where he finished in 12th place.

It was not until 2012, when Brownlee won gold on home soil, that he captured a legion of fans.

Having been in school when London was awarded the Games in 2005, Brownlee took gold seven years later by beating Spanish rival Javier Gomez by 11 seconds.

Alongside his brother Jonny, who took bronze in London, Brownlee has taken the sport to new heights, the pair competing against one another on the world’s biggest stages.

He retired from racing the Olympic distance after his Tokyo disappointment, focusing instead on long-course triathlons and Ironman events.

while on duty with Wales and said the squad had “put a line under it and moved on”.

However, he added: “Ultimately, it’s important that we realise these kind of things need to be looked at with the seriousness that it has been.”

WHAT WAS BENTANCUR’S DEFENCE AND WHAT DID THE PANEL SAY?

Bentancur’s offence carried a punishment of a six to 12-match ban and, in its written reasons,, external the FA said the player “asked for the matter to be dealt with on the basis of written submissions only”.

implied, to nationality and/or race and/or ethnic origin”.

In the media interview in question, asked by a presenter for a Tottenham shirt, Bentancur replied: “Sonny’s? It could be Sonny’s cousin too as they all look the same.”

He later apologised on social media and said his comments were a “very bad joke”.

Bentancur also said sorry to South Korea forward Son, who said he would “not mean to ever intentionally say something offensive”.

On Monday, Ben Davies, Bentancur and Son’s Spurs teammate, was asked about the ban

A response to the charge sent by Tottenham on behalf of Bentancur said: “Rodrigo’s reply was sarcastic and a gentle rebuke for the journalist calling Sonny ‘the Korean’”.

“Rodrigo does not believe that all Koreans ‘look more or less the same’. The context of the exchange clearly shows Rodrigo is being sarcastic... Rodrigo was challenging the journalist in his description of his club team-mate.”

It was also submitted that Bentancur’s apology for his comments was “not for what he said, but for the inadequate reporting on the interview which excluded” the presenter’s reference to Son as “the Korean”.

However, the panel concluded Bentancur’s “conduct in using the

words he did, in the full context in which they were used, was clearly abusive and insulting, and would amount to misconduct”.

They found that the apologies made by him appear to show he accepted he had caused offence and a statement from Spurs, external in response to his apologies “appears to have accepted that the player’s remarks had been objectively insulting and/or abusive and discriminatory”.

The panel said that they could not accept the submission of Bentancur as it “flies in the face of the evidence” and “does not sit with the content or form of the player’s apologies or the response of THFC or Son Heung-min”.

In determining the sanction, the independent regulatory commission took into account Bentancur had no previous offences, did not mean to cause offence and, “despite the submissions made on his behalf before us which tended to undermine the force of that early apology, we consider his remorse was and is genuine”.

It added: “In all the circumstances, we consider that, in terms of culpability and consequences, this breach falls towards the lower end of the guideline range but not the lowest point.”

Anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out said it welcomed the decision to hold Bentancur accountable for using a racial slur.

Rodrigo Bentancur joined Tottenham from Juventus in 2022

Greyhounds and Hurricanes start PHL with big wins

The Saunders and Co Greyhounds and the Turkberry Hurricanes started the 2024-25 Provo Hockey League with emphatic victories in the Novice and Bantam divisions respectively.

There were several other victorious sides on the opening week, including the Temple Financial Panthers, who registered a four-goal win, but the dominance by the Greyhounds and the Hurricanes was unmatched.

In the Novice Division, Dylan Garland started his season with a bang after firing in five goals, including the opener 45 seconds into the game, for the Greyhounds in their 9-1 win against the Grace Bay Car Rental Islanders.

Harvey Arthur and Dan Jose added the other goals for the winners, who had romped to a 6-0 lead after the opening period.

Skyla Rutherford managed to pull one back for the Islanders at 7:40 in the second period.

The other Novice division clash proved more competitive with the Projetech Pirates and the Design Studio Jets battling to a 2-2 draw.

The Jets opened the scoring in 4:13 via a Tejas Gururaja goal, they doubled the score four minutes later via a Lucio Bozzer strike. In the second period, the Pirates were

able to pull the game back after Evan Luker and Evan Pollon found the back of the net.

Both Bantam Division clashes were one-sided, but the Hurricanes proved to be more dominant in their clash. Led by Damian Rutherford, they romped to a 10-2 win against the Twa Marcelin Wolf Lightning.

Rutherford, who dominated the late first period with four consecutive goals, finished with a

week-high six goals. Support came from Ryan King with two goals and an assist and Yash Ochani and Clara Davies with a goal each.

Marco Gallardo and Lennox Losinske scored for the Lightning in the second period.

In the other Bantam Division clash, the Panthers led by Connor Bromley finished with a 5-1 win over The Ritz Carlton Flyers. Bromley, who scored the opener (3:45), finished with three goals and an assist, while Shlok Ganglani supported with two goals and an assist.

Kale Luker scored the Flyers’ consolation goal.

In the Junior Division, the Tibor’s Sharks edged past the Kvanar Oilers in an exciting encounter. The Sharks scored 15 seconds into the game via Joswin Jose, but it was the Oilers who surged to a 5-4 lead at the half.

Cj Moriarty, who scored three consecutive goals in the opener to keep the Sharks within striking range assisted Emeric Gula at 7:25 in the second half to tie the game 5-5 before he scored the winner late in the second.

Jack Henry and Estheban Couture scored two goals each for the Oilers, while Jaden Julien added the other.

The L’Heureux and Co Canadiens registered a 4-2 win over the Parrot Cay Canucks in the other Junior Division clash.

Aiden Bromley and Keith Higgs carried the Canadiens ahead before MacKey Tibble and Liam Redstone evened the game, but second-half goals from Kaven King and Lucas Emery ensured the Canadiens emerged victorious.

The Tibor’s Sharks edged past the Kvanar Oilers in an exciting encounter

The Projetech Pirates and the Design Studio Jets battled to a 2-2 draw

Sports National

Rugby team wings out for RAN 7s tournament

The TCI National Men’s Rugby 7s team left for Trinidad and Tobago on Thursday to compete in the 2024 Rugby Americas North Sevens (RANS 7s) in Arima.

The national team, which is in

Tier 2, will open the tournament on Friday from 1pm local time (12pm TCI time) against Curacao.

Eighteen teams will be battling at the Larry Gomes Stadium over three days.

The TCI Sevens side will also meet St Vincent and the Grenadines and the Dominican Republic, those two games are carded for 9:06am and 12:24pm on Saturday.

The winner of the group will advance to Tier 1.

The Men’s Tier 1 teams are Barbados, Bermuda, Canada, Cayman Islands, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, and Trinidad & Tobago. They will battle to see who will earn a spot for the 2025 HSBC World Sevens Challenger Series.

Several female teams, including Barbados, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Mexico, Trinidad & Tobago and Trinidad & Tobago 2nd Team are also competing in the tournament.

Ewing represents TCI at prestigious FIFA Unite Exchange Program

The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) announced this week that Candia Ewing travelled to Zurich, Switzerland and Paris, France to represent the islands in the 2024 FIFA Unite Exchange Program.

Candia stood out as the only female representative among a distinguished group of participants from Ghana, Uganda, the Czech Republic, and Tajikistan. Each participant was meticulously selected by its Regional Development Team.

According to the FA, Candia was honoured to have represented the Turks and Caicos Islands in the programme.

“This opportunity has allowed me to learn from others in the global football community and to bring back valuable insights that can help us grow the sport in our region. I have gained a deeper understanding.

“The discussions and workshops were incredibly enriching, and I’m eager to apply what I’ve learned to make a tangible difference. I

believe that with the strategies we’ve developed, we can create more opportunities and nurture a passion for football that extends beyond the field. I’m grateful for this unique experience and excited to collaborate with my colleagues at the TCIFA to turn these insights into action, and also build on the valuable relationships created at the Home of FIFA.”

According to the FA “Candia’s presence at such an esteemed international platform underscores the advancements occurring in football administration, and serves as a beacon of hope for small associations, such as that of the Turks and Caicos Islands”.

TCIFA’s President Sonia Fulford called Candia’s selection a “significant milestone”, not only for her personal career but for the TCIFA as a whole.

“This initiative is vital, as it plays a significant role in ensuring that football continues to thrive and foster community unity across the nation. The enthusiasm surrounding Candia’s

involvement reflects a broader vision of growth and innovation within the TCIFA. I would also like to add that her journey is not only inspirational but also a catalyst for aspiring female leaders in the region, signalling to young women that there are no limits to what they can achieve in sports administration.”

The FIFA Unite Exchange Program is geared to foster global collaboration and knowledge sharing within the football community, promoting the growth and development of the sport. Participants took part in a series of workshops, discussions, and activities aimed at enhancing their understanding of FIFA’s objectives and the support provided to member associations. Their stay at the Home of FIFA provided valuable networking opportunities. Additionally, participants presented individual projects to senior members of FIFA, each aiming to launch initiatives within their respective member associations.

The national team will open this year’s competition on Friday against Curacao

The names of the players representing the TCI at the tournament

Candia said she was honoured to have represented the islands at the exchange programme