#Providenciales, August 29, 2019 – Turks and Caicos – Once Tropical Storm, now Hurricane Dorian has been a shifty system as she barrels through many of the Caribbean islands, in some cases bringing drizzles of rain and in others causing flash floods, dangerous surf conditions and mudslides.
Around 4pm on Tuesday, TCI Authorities put these
islands on Tropical Storm Alert, which meant residents were expected to rush to
readiness by Wednesday and feel the effects of this fourth named storm on
Thursday and all-day Friday.
By 11pm Tuesday, the forecast from the National
Hurricane Center based in Miami Florida, illustrated a different trajectory of
Tropical Storm Dorian; a shift that took the TCI well out of its forecast
cone.
By morning, the tropical storm alert for the Turks
and Caicos was discontinued.
“The Bahamas Met centre confirms that the tropical
storm Dorian has shifted slightly in a northeasterly direction which currently
takes it out of the direct path of the Turks and Caicos Islands. We
will indeed feel some slight (weather) situation as a result of passage of Dorian,
said Ralph Higgs, Minister of Tourism.
The Minister encouraged having an emergency plan
and knowing your plan despite the change which has, at this time, taken the TCI
out of the harm’s way.
“We must continue on the path of preparedness as
you are aware we are still in the peak of our Atlantic Hurricane Season, which
means from now until the end of the peak season, storms can appear on the
horizon,” said the Minister who added, “If you own or operate a business
familiarize yourself with your continuity plan following the passage of a
storm, to ensure there is minimal loss of business in the event we are hit by a
storm in the 2019 season.”
In a media debriefing held at the Governor’s Office
in Providenciales on Wednesday morning; Minister responsible for disaster
management, Ralph Higgs; Director of disaster management, Dr Virginia Clerveaux
and Governor of the territory, His Excellency Nigel Dakin explained the
decision to discontinue, what preparations had been made and even what
reinforcements the United Kingdom have activated as support to all the
Caribbean Overseas territories.
DDME Director, Dr. Virginia Clerveaux talked about what had already taken place in preparation for an encounter with Tropical Storm Dorian.
“We have held sub-committee meetings continuously
throughout the year and we are ensuring that persons are prepared. From these
subcommittee meetings we have action points that are circulated to ensure
persons are doing it. When we had those meetings, we were in touch
with our CDEMA partners, they were communicating and providing us information.
The Governor’s Office was very instrumental and continuously instrumental in
disaster management as you know, as Director of DDME, I advise the Governor so
he would have been kept abreast of every decision that is being made,” said
Director Dr. Clerveaux.
The Governor, who admits this would have been his
first tropical storm encounter said he was impressed with the DDME’s data
driven approach to making decisions and the UK’s readiness to swiftly send
help, if needed.
“What I was very reassured about is that we rapidly
moved the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Mounts Bay in behind the storm, where it
continues to sit so if the storm does change direction tomorrow – and it could
– we’re still in a good position to bring in support rapidly behind it.”
In the TCI on Wednesday, skies were overcast, the
horizon looked hazy and there was early morning light
rain. Residents remained watchful and said, they would continue with
preparations just in case Tropical Storm Dorian did the unexpected; and that
posture is fine by the officials.
“That forecasting may change and if that
forecasting changes, then the advice may change. But I hope given that this is
going to be a recurring theme in the fabric of this country that what we need
to do is very carefully calibrate so that we neither over react, which in the
end will destroy public confidence or indeed under react. I think at
the moment what we are trying to do is give you a very calibrated response,
which we will keep under permanent review over the next few days,” said His
Excellency Dakin.
RFA Mounts Bay
At 11pm on Wednesday, ‘Dorian’ continued to shift
away from the Turks and Caicos Islands and the storm grew in strength, becoming
a category one hurricane. The NHC forecasts even more
intensification of Dorian.
From the
National Hurricane Center: “On this track,
Dorian should move over the Atlantic well east of the southeastern and central
Bahamas on Thursday and Friday… Dorian is forecast to strengthen into a
powerful hurricane during the next couple of days…Dorian is expected to produce
the following rainfall accumulations: The central Bahamas…2 to 4
inches, isolated 6 inches. The northern Bahamas and Coastal sections of
the Southeast United States…4 to 8 inches, isolated 10 inches. This rainfall may
cause life-threatening flash floods. SURF: Swells around the
U.S. and British Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico should gradually diminish
tonight.”
Minister Higgs assured, “Your government will
continue to move proactively to ensure that our country is ready to face any
scenario of natural hazards in the 2019 Hurricane Season.”
PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: — The Academy Eagles FC were crowned champions of the Beaches sponsored Men’s Provo Premier League after securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over defending champions, SWA Sharks, at the Venetian Road football field.
In a match that featured a mix of youth and experienced players, the Academy Eagles eventually broke through late in the game when Jean Innocent found the back of the net in the 77th minute. Innocent doubled the lead in the 95th minute from the penalty spot to clinch the championship.
Academy Eagles head coach Aaron Lawrence expressed immense pride in his squad’s performance. “I applaud the team for their discipline throughout the season and their ability to stick to the plan heading into this game,” Lawrence shared, adding special praise for team captain Myherwens Varis for “following tactical instructions throughout the game.”
“This victory would not have been possible without the thoughtful support from our main sponsor, Beaches Turks and Caicos resort. This is the second year running with this relationship. This has provided exposure for the semi-professional players and the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association,” Lawrence noted.
On the opposing sideline, SWA Sharks coach Jack Watson was modest in defeat. While he noted that his team executed their strategy well, he recognized the Eagles’ determination. “I congratulate the Eagles team for wanting the win more,” Watson said. “We played to the game plan, but I fault a lapse in judgment that gave up two goals.”
Beaches Turks and Caicos, returning for a second year of sponsoring the competition, expressed ongoing dedication to youth football in the islands. General Manager Deryk Meany shared his enthusiasm, “I am satisfied with the impact that the league is having on youth development throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands and our resort’s involvement in fielding a team for the competition.” The final phase of the tournament now transitions to a knockout format among the eight participating clubs.
League executives also weighed in on the success of the season. Provo Premier League President, Phillip Baptiste, expressed his satisfaction with the league format and highlighted the significant progress made by the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) over the course of the tournament.
“This is what true success looks like as corporate partners like Beaches Turks and Caicos resort joins forces with the TCIFA in providing an avenue for youth development and sports. While we are happy for the continued sponsorship, we are anticipating more support from other entities. This is not only a win for sports, it is a win for development here in the TCI,” Baptiste shared.
TCIFA Technical Director Dane Ritchie echoed these positive sentiments, pointing to the league’s development as an avenue for showcasing local talent on a broader stage. “Our team continues to learn as they work on developing talents with the youth players, as well as providing a broader marketing avenue for the league to be seen internationally with FIFA+ streaming,” Ritchie said.
He added, “the TCIFA commends the growth of the coaching staff involved in the league and looks forward to further enhancing the competition to make them more competitive in the Caribbean leagues.”
Beaches FC and Cheshire Hall FC have both punched their tickets for the first two spots in the semifinals with a 2-0 win over Teachers’ Young Strikers and 5-0 thrashing of Provo United respectively in the first two quarter finals.
PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: — The French Village main stage at Beaches Turks and Caicos resort was transformed into a dazzling beacon of green and gold as the resort celebrated its highest achievers. Under the inspiring banner of “One Team, One Vision, Endless Achievements,” the annual Prestige Awards recently closed the chapter on an exceptional 2025.
More than 120 nominees across twelve distinct categories walked the red carpet, greeted by flashing cameras and the cheering of their peers. The evening was laced with vibrant entertainment that kept the energy high between award presentations. Attendees were also treated to an exquisite five-course menu, carefully curated to match the prestige of the occasion and celebrate the rich culinary talent present at the resort.
The event served as a powerful reminder of the dedication required to operate one of the premier family resorts in the Caribbean. General Manager Deryk Meany took the stage to address the audience while reflecting on a year of resilience, innovation and unparalleled guest service.
“This is a celebratory milestone that as leaders we are happy to share with the stars of the hospitality industry,” Meany shared. “You have shown the world the true mettle of leadership and commitment here at Beaches Turks and Caicos.”
To further recognize unique contributions to the resort’s operational success, Meany personally distributed the General Manager’s Special Awards. These honours were bestowed upon Eric ‘Cookie’ Johnson from the kitchen, Harriet Beeput from administration, and Javier Sarita from the entertainment department for their exceptional behind-the-scenes dedication.
The climax of the evening featured the announcement of the resort’s most prestigious overarching awards. Felipe Luzardo Neira from the kitchen took home the MVP of the Year (Manager of the Year) award, while Chad Peterkin from engineering and maintenance was named All-Rounder of the Year (Supervisor of the Year). The loyalty & travel department proved their collective strength by securing the A-Team of the Year title.
Individual team members were also recognized for their ultimate service standards. Deandra Astwood from the front office earned the Platinum Team Member of the Year award. The highest individual honour, Diamond Team Member of the Year, was awarded to Javain Campbell from the restaurant department. Campbell used his moment in the spotlight to highlight the importance of cross-departmental collaboration and community outreach.
“This accolade is a testament to the commitment and teamwork within all the departments of the resort,” Campbell noted after receiving his award. “The opportunity to volunteer at different Sandals Foundation activities as well as be a mentor to other team members means the world to me. This achievement will allow me to do more in leadership as I have been tasked with representing the entire team here at the resort.”
The Prestige Awards ensured that every facet of the resort’s operations received proper recognition. From environmental sustainability to guest entertainment, the specific category winners showcased a wide array of talents:
Movers & Shakers was awarded to Katherine ‘Tinkerbell’ Jiminez from the entertainment department
Legendary Team Member was secured by Kadian Smith from the restaurant
Circle of Joy went to Emanie Jocelyn Seide from security and loss prevention
Earth Guardian was claimed by Bernard Florvil from engineering and maintenance
Sandals Foundation Sentinel was awarded to Tanya Swann from administration
Standing Ovation Award was proudly accepted by Richard Myers from the laundry team
Money Maker Award went to Teesha McCallum-Hamilton from the resort shop
Heart of the House Hotel Manager’s Award was presented to Carlton Biggs from stewarding department
People’s Choice Award was won by Claire Ann Balones from the off site department
Pacesetter Award was given to Kassandra Henry from accounts & cost control
Founder’s Circle Award was claimed by Susan Outten from the restaurant
As the night drew to a close, the focus shifted to the rigorous selection process that led to the evening’s celebrations. The Prestige Awards do not merely look at a single moment of excellence, but rather evaluate a full twelve months of unwavering dedication to the guest experience. Human Resources Manager Owenta Coleby highlighted the rewarding journey these team members took to reach the main stage.
“This event is a culmination of a number of activities for the resort’s leadership and the team members who have been exemplary and consistent throughout the year,” Coleby shared. “Congratulations are in order for each nominee as they have been crowned winners for the different months of 2025.”
With the trophies distributed and the 2025 season officially wrapped, the staff at Beaches Turks and Caicos now look forward. Fueled by the “One Team, One Vision” mantra, these award winners are already setting the standard for another year of endless achievements.
Turks and Caicos, May 12, 2026 – A new era of digital finance regulation could be on the horizon for the Turks and Caicos Islands, as the Financial Services Commission moves to establish a legal framework for virtual assets and cryptocurrency-related businesses.
The TCI Financial Services Commission on Friday launched a public consultation on its proposed Virtual Assets Business Bill, 2026, legislation designed to regulate virtual asset service providers, stablecoin issuers and other digital asset activities operating in or from the territory.
Globally, governments and regulators have been racing to catch up with the rapid growth of digital currencies, blockchain technology and online financial platforms. Concerns over money laundering, cybercrime, fraud and the collapse of poorly regulated crypto exchanges have pushed jurisdictions to tighten oversight while still trying to attract financial innovation and investment.
The proposed TCI bill appears aimed at positioning the territory within that evolving international framework.
According to the FSC, the legislation is aligned with international standards and guidance from bodies including the Financial Action Task Force, International Organization of Securities Commissions and the Financial Stability Board.
The Commission said the bill would introduce a “comprehensive licensing, supervisory, prudential and enforcement framework” for the sector. The proposed law includes anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing obligations, cyber resilience requirements, enforcement measures and even a regulatory sandbox intended to support innovation.
Among the notable features are proposed reserve and governance rules for stablecoins, which are digital currencies typically tied to traditional assets like the US dollar. The draft legislation also outlines exemptions for certain technology providers and closed-loop token systems.
The FSC said the consultation period is intended to gather public and industry feedback before the bill is submitted to Cabinet next month. Written submissions must be received by June 8, 2026.
The consultation paper and draft bill have been published on the FSC website for public review.
Angle by Deandrea Hamilton. Built with ChatGPT (AI). Magnetic Media — CAPTURING LIFE.