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TCI: Strangers tried again to find Alandre, still no sign of teen boy

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#Providenciales, September 26, 2019 – Turks and Caicos – Two search teams fanned out from two marinas in Providenciales, unprepared to give up on finding, at the very least, the body of a teenaged boy who went missing while swimming with friends last Thursday.  Most who showed up for the final search do not even know young Alandre Pierre personally.

The search for 17-year-old, Alandre Jean Pierre by a team of officials including the Marine Police, Dept of Coastal Resources, Department of Disaster Management & Emergencies, private residents and the US Coast Guard was called off over the weekend. 

The boy was still unfound said a police update issued on Monday afternoon. 

The family of young Pierre arranged one of the search efforts, which started at the Turtle Cove Marina with an appeal on Facebook; it was a combination of friends and strangers with one goal in mind.

“Basically, I feel as if this could have easily been one of my friends, my relatives.  I think this is a young boy who actually assisted me while I was working at the Red Cross.  He volunteered his time,” said a young woman named Kensey, who added, “Hopefully we can find closure for the family and we sympathise with the situation and a lot of us are just volunteers and this is a great way to show, you know, regardless of the fact that he was Haitian or not… it is just showing unity, that we can come together for a greater cause, putting aside all of that negative talk.”

“I was hoping we could find this kid.  I don’t know him personally, but if it was me, I would hope somebody would try to find me and not just give up in a couple of days.  It just doesn’t make sense, we are just hoping we can find him, explained Khalil Taylor, a young man who volunteered to scour Providenciales beaches and waters ways. 

Even a professional swim instructor joined the search party and says the tragedy demands a sensible response; for swimming to be added to all schools’ curriculum.

“I used to swim (competitively), not a diver but I am willing to lend my expertise and hopefully we can find the guy so that the family can find closure.”

 Lenin Hamilton is the swim coach and a founder of the TCI Aquatics Club; he grew up in The Bahamas though he now resides with his family in Providenciales.

“I would also suggest that between Hurricane Dorian and this event of a teen missing at sea, we should have swimming in the curriculum in case anything of these things happen again at least they will have some form of survival skills to manage rip currents like this,” said Coach Hamilton.

On the day Alandre went swimming with friends at the Bight Park beach, there were warnings of hazardous conditions, monster swells and dangerous rip currents.  The weather report advised to stay out of the water.  Now his friends, his family are devastated and bewildered.

The Turks and Caicos Boating club, left from a marina further east; the Blue Haven Marina.

“Well we have decided to give it one more shot to find the missing teen.  The TCI Boat Club has partnered with Catch the Wave charters to make one last run out there to see what we come up with,” said Albert “Froggie” Williams on Wednesday when we spoke to him. 

Froggie, one of the lead organisers of the TCI Boat Club Poker Run, actually postponed the highly anticipated event to October 5 due to the rough surf and hazardous conditions caused by the storms churning in the Atlantic basin. 

Froggie shared the plan for his crew of six, “We are going to follow the currents for that day but basically, we are going everywhere.”

A follow up with Froggie today revealed, that indeed Alandre was not found; the TCI Boat Club and Catch the Wave search for the teenager ended around 1:30pm on Wednesday.

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Academy Eagles FC crowned Beaches Turks & Caicos sponsored Provo Men’s Premier League champions 2026  

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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.

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Beaches Turks & Caicos celebrates Stars at its Annual Prestige Awards

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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.

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Finance

TCI Financial Services Opens Debate on Cryptocurrency Rules 

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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.

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