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TCI: Restored Smith’s Reef Snorkel Trail Reopens with Welcome Renovations for Improved Marine Education, Life and Livelihoods

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#TurksandCaicos, June 10, 2021 – Turks and Caicos Islands, June 9, 2021 – The breathtaking sights of the underwater ecosystems at the Smith’s Reef Snorkel Trail are all set to be explored by local communities, students, and international guests thanks to rehabilitative work funded by the Sandals Foundation to ensure the protection of the enchanting marine life, the safety of snorkelers and the sustained livelihood of those who earn a living from using the nearby boating channel.

On Tuesday June 8, in commemoration of World Oceans Day, the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources proudly reopened the more than 20 year old near shore trail after implementing upgrades valued at just under US $30,000 from the Sandals Foundation.

Restoration works included the cleaning and continued maintenance of existing snorkel trail markers, installation of beach signage and marker buoys around the snorkel site, introduction of swim zone lines outside the snorkel area to prevent snorkelers from accidentally entering the boating channel, and the provision of signs and other collateral noting guideline for reef etiquette.

Heidi Clarke, Executive Director at the Sandals Foundation was pleased to see the reopening of the iconic site, bringing with it opportunities for sustained education and economic exploration.

“The new underwater trail signs will add to the rich educational experience of students and local community members who’ll be able to develop a deeper appreciation for and understanding of how they too can help protect the beautiful natural resources,” said Clarke.

The site’s reopening is even more significant, Clarke continued, as the theme for this year’s World Oceans Day, “Connects the importance of the Ocean to what we know all too well as Caribbean nationals – our lives and livelihoods. The marine space is part of our identity as a region and we are very happy to have this beautiful snorkel site reopened with restored amenities to not only protect the natural ecosystems that are present but also the life and livelihoods of persons who share in its resources.”

Alizee Zimmermann, Executive Director at the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund expressed gratitude to the Sandal’s Foundation for the Smith’s Reef restoration works funded.

“Smith’s Reef is an iconic off-shore snorkel site enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. The restoration efforts have created a safe space for snorkelers, alerting them to where the boat channel begins through the addition of a swim zone line. Additionally, the snorkel ring itself serves to keep people off of the shallow, fragile areas of the reef, protecting our vulnerable corals all the while taking the snorkeller on an informational tour through the placement of underwater trail markers. The beach signs and waterproof but recyclable maps will make this a fun, educational and memorable experience for all.”

Turks & Caicos is home to the third-largest barrier reef in the world with more than a million travelers venturing to the island each year to explore the wonders of the marine space.

Speaking at the Trail’s brief reopening ceremony executed under strict safety protocols, General Manager at Beaches Turks and Caicos, James McAnally beamed that, “As the island’s tourism industry continues its upward trajectory, the newly reopened snorkel site will be a welcome addition to marine adventure seekers.”

McAnally added, “Many guest travel here to enjoy the vibrant aquatic life and that’s why the Sandals Foundation, Turks and Caicos Reef Fund and Beaches Turks and Caicos believe this restoration project will enhance the sea life activity and options for both residents and tourists.”

Coral reefs are threatened throughout the Caribbean and the tropical Atlantic. Near shore reefs are particularly valuable assets as they allow visitors a one of a kind opportunity to easily access and learn about the wondrous ecosystem. Renovations of the Smith’s Reef Snorkel Trail began in late 2019 but had numerous setbacks due to the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The project continues the longstanding partnership between the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund and the Sandals Foundation who have over the years implemented a number of activities towards the sustained conservation of the island’s marine spaces.

Bahamas News

Bahamas Government to meet with SpaceX

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PRESS STATEMENT

Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation

 

The Bahamas, February 6, 2025 – A delegation inclusive of all relevant agencies is meeting with SpaceX officials as The Islands of The Bahamas finalise preparations for the historic landing of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket booster on February 17.

This landmark moment will make The Bahamas the first international destination to host the Falcon 9 rocket booster landings. This historic event, set to take place off the coast of The Exumas, marks a significant leap for The Bahamas into the realm of space tourism.

The collaboration between Bahamian officials and SpaceX positions The Bahamas as a key player in the growing space tourism industry, with 20 scheduled landings to take place in Bahamian waters on autonomous drone ships. The country will be the exclusive location to witness these remarkable events, offering unique economic opportunities and advancements in technology.

The delegation includes senior representatives from the Royal Bahamas Defense Force, the Bahamas Air Navigation Services Authority, the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection, and the Port Department.

The relevant senior officials will remain on hand during the launch sequence and launch and ascent. They are fully engaged to ensure all safety, regulatory, and operational measures are in place for the scheduled landing. Every effort is being made to facilitate this historic event while maintaining the highest standards.

Further details regarding the landing and related activities will be forthcoming.

The Hon. I. Chester Cooper
Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation

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Decomposing Body Found

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***MEDIA RELEASE***

 

Turks and Caicos, February 5, 2025 – The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is investigating the discovery of a decomposing body found in the vicinity of Delco Yard, Snake Hill, Blue Hills.

At approximately 7:45 pm on Tuesday, January 15, 2025, officers received information regarding the presence of a body in a ditch near Delco Yard.  A team of officers and the TCI Regiment were deployed to the scene.

Upon arrival, officers confirmed the presence of a deceased male wearing black jeans and blue Jordan sneakers. The deceased had a black locks hairstyle. The body was in an advanced state of decomposition.

If you have any information that could assist in identifying the deceased or in the ongoing investigation, please call 911 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 (TIPS).

Information can also be shared via the Crime Stoppers P3 app.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

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Caribbean News

S Hotel Kingston Partners with Bob Marley Foundation to Celebrate Kingston as the Cultural Capital

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KINGSTON, JAMAICA, [February 6, 2024] – In celebration of Bob Marley’s 80th birthday, S Hotel Kingston has partnered with the Bob Marley Foundation to launch an immersive “Explore Kingston” initiative, spotlighting the city’s rich cultural heritage. The collaboration features a dynamic new video that showcases Kingston in the world’s music culture.

Widely regarded as the heart of Jamaica’s artistic and musical legacy, Kingston takes center stage in this captivating video, which highlights iconic sites such as the Bob Marley Museum, Trench Town Culture Yard, Tuff Gong International, and Kingston Creative’s Water Lane Art Walk. The video offers an inspiring glimpse into the city’s cultural essence and its deep connection to reggae music.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Bob Marley Foundation to bring this experience to life,” said Christopher Issa, CEO of S Hotels Jamaica. “This initiative is not only a celebration of Bob Marley’s birthday but also a tribute to the creative spirit that makes Kingston the beating heart of Jamaica.”

S Hotel Kingston embraces this cultural legacy throughout the property. Each room is equipped with a Bob Marley record player. The hotel’s Strings Cafe and Bar features a stunning zinc mural with an impression of Bob Marley, serving as a striking backdrop that pays homage to Kingston’s artistic roots, along with an 8-ft guitar. Additionally, a Bob Marley statue stands as a tribute to the legendary artist, further reinforcing the hotel’s deep connection to Jamaica’s music history.

For more information on S Hotel Kingston, please visit http://www.shotelkingston.com. To view the “Explore Kingston” video, follow S Hotel Kingston on social at @shotelkingstonjm.

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