News
Do Not Close Down the Tourist Board!!
In his address to the nation Premier Misick told the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands that, “On the Issue of the Destination Management Organization and Tourism Authority, anybody who read the Progressive National Party Contract with the people, would be aware that this was “a key pillar of that Contract.” From this the Hon. Premier is implying that his New Administration told the people that once in power they would be closing down the Tourist Board, and will be replacing it with a Destination Marketing & Management Organization (DMMO) and a Tourism Authority. Oh, how we know how contracts can hide the important and controversial details. We just have to look at the Contract with InterHealth Canada and the Exclusivity given to Carnival.
I am of the belief that many of the voters, and others, assumed that the words pertaining to the DMMO in the PNP’s Citizen’s Contract meant that there would be a restructuring and a rebranding of the existing Tourist Board, giving them huge upgrades, greater budgetary support, and increased qualified manpower who have the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to carry out their new mandate.
Consequently, instead of improving and upgrading, the Hon. Premier and his Cabinet are planning to close down the Tourist Board, including the offices in our key source markets. This move will no doubt also negatively affect existing staff, as there is no guarantee that they will be offered placement in the two new Bodies.
In an attempt to justify this closure, he stated that, “We must ensure sustainable growth that reflects our luxury branding, and one that allow us to really fine tune our offerings as a destination.” He went on to state that, “the figures showing an increase in arrivals for 2021, and record numbers, when compared to the third quarter arrivals in 2019, and it would only get better based on the projections that we are seeing. We must position the country to ensure that we sustain and that we manage this upward trend in arrivals into 2022 and beyond.”
This statement made by the Hon. Premier confirms that, notwithstanding its current structure and limited resources, the Tourist Bard has been performing their duties, and performing well. The country has been seeing the fruits of their labour. Therefore, I do believe that if we want to demand greater output from the Tourist Board with a greater mandate, simply give them greater resources, provide further training, introduce new jobs with the needed descriptions, with the suitable pay level, which would allow for more of our best and brightest to be attracted to work in the industry.
The Hon. Premier went on to say that, “the Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board has done a great job given its current mandate, that mandate is limited however. And so the goal is to advance the Turks and Caicos Islands to the next level, to solidify the country as a top destination in the region, and one of the best in the world.” Why does the Hon. Premiere think that when given the optimum resources, our people cannot achieve this “taking the Turks & Caicos to the next level”?
I strongly believe that the Tourist Board can, give them a fair opportunity to succeed with the new mandate, if given the needed resources, and allow for the restructuring of the duties. Allow the Tourist Board to have the resources and manpower similar to that which would be found in a well performing DMMO, and you will see them fulfill, and possibly surpass, this mandate.
The Premier and his Cabinet should not be using Government to create a problem, and then justifying the dismantling of it, only to replace it with a system that is not ideal for our people and our country. This is a solution in search of a problem.
I do not agree with the Hon. Premier’s rationale for closing down the Tourist Board, there is no legitimate rational basis for the Government to get rid of the Tourist Board.
Has the DMMO already being selected? How was the selection made? What is the name of the selected DMMO? Who are the owners and shareholders in the DMMO? Where is this DMMO’s home base? How much will the People of the Turks and Caicos be paying them?
Hon. Premier, the People need to know!!!
I firmly believe that the Tourist Board should not be closed down, but be given the opportunity to grow and diversify. I am asking the Hon. Premier, it is ok for leaders to admit they made mistakes as long as they quickly correct them, we all make mistakes. For the good of those who work in the Tourism sector, for the good of those employed with the Tourist Board, for the good of the future of Tourism in the Turks & Caicos Islands, please reverse your decision of scrapping the Tourist Board, and rather focus on strengthening and enhancing its capabilities and functioning. Give them a chance to tackle the new mandate, and show you and your Cabinet, and the country that they did it before, and with the right resources, they can do it again!!
Premier Misick and his Cabinet are wrong for disregarding the people’s views in this decision, the Premier and the Minister responsible for Tourism should have come to the people first and should allow for further wider consultation before making the decision. Why is there such great urgency to get this done? To deny the people a fair chance to give their opinions, and to already be in a rush process to close down the Tourist Board is absolutely the wrong decision.
Head to bed in a bra to reduce breast pain, nipple irritation and stretch marks
When you think about sleeping in a bra, “comfort” probably isn’t the first word that comes to mind — it may not even make the Top 10. But is it bad to sleep with a bra on?
Breast surgical oncologist Margaret Thompson, MD, explains the upsides and downsides of wearing a bra while you snooze.
Should you sleep in a bra?
Several factors may affect your decision to wear a bra to bed, but Dr. Thompson emphasizes that the risk of breast cancer should not be one of them.
“There’s no evidence that wearing a bra while sleeping increases your risk for breast cancer,” she states. “It really comes down to comfort and personal preference.”
But there are also other health issues to consider. Dr. Thompson lays out the pros and cons of sleeping in a bra.
Pros: Why sleeping in a bra might be good for you
Should you wear a bra to bed? There are some benefits, especially if you’re recovering from surgery or breastfeeding.
Lessens breast pain
Having the support of a bra day and night may help relieve breast pain (mastalgia). That’s good news, because up to 70% of women in the United States deal with it at some point in their lives.
Common causes include:
- Hormonal changes, which often occur as part of your menstrual cycle
- Locally advanced breast cancer, including inflammatory breast cancer
- Lactation (producing milk), which may cause your breasts to ache
- Large breasts, which may strain breast ligaments and tissue
- Recent surgery related to your heart or breasts
- Underwires, especially if your bras are too tight
“When somebody reports breast pain, one of the first things we ask is whether they wear an underwire bra,” shares Dr. Thompson. “It can dig into your skin or breast tissue, leaving you sore and tender.”
A soft sleep bra can keep your breasts from shifting and causing discomfort while you snooze.
Protects lactating breasts
If you’re breastfeeding, you know all too well that your mammary glands don’t care if you’re trying to rest. Swollen or full breasts can be painful, especially as you move during sleep or change positions. Wearing a clean and supportive bra while sleeping:
- Holds nursing pads in place
- Keeps nipples dry and free from bacteria
- Reduces nipple chafing
- Supports the structure of your breasts
Make sure your sleep bra is supportive, but not too tight. Wearing a bra that’s too tight while breastfeeding can lower your milk production and possibly lead to clogged milk ducts and mastitis — inflammation of the breast tissue.
Prevents fungal infections
Everyone loves to be warm and cozy in bed. But do you know what else loves a warm environment? Fungus.
“There’s a lot of skin-on-skin contact underneath your breasts, especially if you have larger breasts,” notes Dr. Thompson. “If you’re also
covered in blankets and sweating, it becomes a perfect environment for fungal or yeast infections.”
Wearing a bra to bed helps absorb moisture beneath your breasts and reduce friction. A camisole with a built-in shelf bra can also help.
Reduces nipple irritation
Friction is a common reason for nipple pain — ask any avid runner. You may not be running a marathon in your sleep, but your nipples can still get sore from rubbing against:
- Tight shirts, especially if they’re textured or have a graphic design that can be felt inside the shirt
- The fabric of your pajama top or sheets
- A sleep bra that’s too loose
Wearing a sleep bra can limit movement, easing nipple irritation.
Helps with recovery after surgery
It’s important to keep your breasts compressed after certain surgeries involving your chest. Restricting breast movement helps protect stitches and incisions. The added compression can also:
- Decrease fluid collection
- Minimize pain
- Hold gauze and drains in place
“Most cardiac and breast surgeons want you to wear a bra for some time after surgery, even while sleeping,” emphasizes Dr. Thompson. “Always follow their advice.”
Diminishes stretch marks
Stretch marks on breasts are common, especially if your breasts change size during pregnancy. Bras support your skin’s structure, which helps prevent stretch marks.
“There’s no proof that wearing a bra at any time of day will decrease breast sagginess,” Dr. Thompson clarifies. “But it may help decrease stretch marks.”
Cons: Why it’s bad to sleep with a bra on
Looking for a reason to sleep without strapping on a bra? Dr. Thompson points out a few potential disadvantages of sleeping in a bra.
Causes skin irritation and infection
A sleep bra can protect your skin from irritation and infection. But it can also cause those issues if it has an underwire or it’s:
- Dirty
- Too tight
- Too loose
Restricts circulation
“Bras that are too tight or contain underwires may cause you to wake up with some discomfort,” reiterates Dr. Thompson. “They can restrict your circulation while you sleep.”
Nobody wants to wake up to find that their bra left angry red indents in its wake. That’s why selection is key.
Tips for wearing a bra to bed
If you decide to sleep in a bra, choose one that’s comfortable and fits well — not too tight, not too loose. And be sure to replace your bras every six to 12 months, or whenever your breast size changes. Measure yourself or ask the fitter at your lingerie store or undergarments department for help finding the right size.
For the best experience with your sleep bra, Dr. Thompson recommends that you:
- Choose a gentle fabric. Avoid lace or scratchy fabrics that may be rough on your nipples. Choose a natural material like cotton or something silky and soft.
- Consider a shelf bra. Some camisoles and tank tops have a built-in shelf bra that may help you feel supported while sleeping.
- Skip the underwire. Underwire can restrict circulation and cause pain while you sleep.
- Wear a clean bra. Don’t wear a bra you’ve worn all day, and wash your sleep bras regularly — after every two or three wears.
Bottom line? If you choose to sleep in a bra, you want one that’s supportive and comfortable. If it interferes with your sleep, it’s not the right fit.
The Bahamas, August 27, 2026 – The Royal Bahamas Police Force wishes to inform members of the public that several individuals are scheduled to appear before the Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 27th August 2026, at 12:00 noon.
The individuals and charges are as follows:
An 18-year-old female is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
Three (3) counts of Murder
Three (3) counts of Attempted Murder
Three (3) counts of Possession of a Firearm with Intent to Endanger Life
Three (3) counts of Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm
Two (2) counts of Possession of Ammunition
Armed Robbery
Abetment to Armed Robbery
Stealing
Receiving
The charges stem from three separate shooting incidents and an armed robbery that occurred on Friday, 21st August 2026, and Saturday, 22nd August 2026.
The first shooting occurred in the area of Soldier Road and Baillou Hill Road, resulting in the death of a 51-year-old male.
The second shooting occurred in the area of Joe Farrington Road, resulting in the death of a 52-year-old male.
The third shooting occurred in the area of Gladstone Road, resulting in the death of a 36-year-old male.
The armed robbery occurred at a business establishment in the area of Carmichael Road and Baillou Hill Road.
A 21-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on one charge of:
- Murder
The charge stems from a shooting incident that occurred on Tuesday, 21st July 2026, in the area of Samson Street, Nassau Village, which resulted in the death of a 28-year-old male.
A 32-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
- Murder
- Attempted Murder
These charges stem from a shooting incident that occurred on Wednesday, 24th December 2025, in the area of Graham Drive, Yellow Elder, which resulted in the death of a 25-year-old male.
RBPF, PACD
by Deandrea Hamilton | Editor
PROVIDENCIALES, TCI — In a country where government press conferences are virtually non-existent, ministers are often difficult for
journalists to access and regular broadcast television news has disappeared, TCI Innovation, Technology and Energy Minister E. Jay Saunders has challenged Caribbean media to become “impossible to ignore.”
Speaking at the Caribbean Broadcasting Union gathering, Saunders argued that the Caribbean does not have a relevance problem but a “discoverability and positioning problem.”
Discoverability is precisely the issue in Saunders’ home country. Even Government’s own attempts at video news broadcasting have struggled against the realities of consistently producing a daily, weekly or even monthly newscast.
The difficulties confronting TCI media extend well beyond algorithms: limited advertising revenue, underfunding, shortages of trained professionals and insufficient human capacity leave newsrooms struggling for both staff and stamina.
Then there is the reality of operating in one of the region’s smallest societies. Politicians, journalists, advertisers, businesses and the subjects of stories often exist within the same tight economic and social circles. A controversial report that might create a ripple elsewhere can produce a tsunami in TCI, intensifying concerns among journalists about commercial and professional victimisation.
Saunders believes AI can help.
He urged Caribbean media to use the technology to transform one original story into television, radio, web, podcast, social and translated content without multiplying newsroom workload.
He also wants regional journalism structured so AI systems can find, understand and trust Caribbean sources, moving media beyond traditional SEO into Answer Engine Optimisation.
His ultimate message was emphatic: “Use AI not to make Caribbean media more artificial — but to make Caribbean voices more visible.”
For Turks and Caicos media, however, becoming visible may require more than technology. It requires an environment in which journalism can survive.
That last sentence is where I think we land the plane. It acknowledges that EJ actually has some us
