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Cynclair’s Swan Song coming for North Caicos

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By Dana Malcolm

Staff Writer 

 

#TurksandCaicos, March 9, 2023 – For eight years, Cynclair Musgrove has been the District Commissioner in North Caicos; taking the lead on solving problems and giving council to everyone who needed it, for some the hefty responsibility would have been exhausting, but Cynclair describes it as a dream come true.

“My tenure began on August 4th, 2015 and will end officially on March 31st, 2023. To say it was my dream job would be an understatement.  Working on my island home and doing what I love was a blessing for which I shall be forever grateful,” she told us over the phone ahead of a huge event she is planning to say farewell and thank you to the people of North Caicos.

The best part of it she said was the constant engagement with her countrymen young and old.

“What I cherished most was the opportunity it afforded me to work closely with every school, organization or church. Whether it was my initiative or not it did not matter.  Once it was for or on North Caicos, that’s all that mattered to me.”

It’s one of the reasons she’s hosting her event Cycnlair’s Swan Song; a final hurrah to celebrate her retirement, but once again the focus isn’t on her per se but the people of her island who have stood by her side throughout this journey.  She spoke about them with extreme fondness and gratitude.

“Throughout my tenure, I have been blessed with a core group of dedicated people.  Each initiative was made possible by their commitment.  They never sought money or the spotlight. But while I could only hope that some people come out, I could count on my support system for the duration.  I have tons of anecdotes about each honoree. How they went beyond the call of duty time and time again; how my rake and scrape band boys and my other student volunteers literally grew up before my eyes; how they never got tired of doing the heavy lifting.  My ideas became their mission which they chose to accept without hesitation,” she said

Cynclair, also an educator and writer, is currently working on a commemorative book, filled with photos she says, of the myriad of experiences she has had during her time as District Commissioner for the island.

While they are too many to name, the DC easily listed her favourite times, these she said stand out fresh in her mind:

  • Having the myriad talents of our students, and senior citizens – farmers, artisans, and restaurateurs recognized beyond our boundaries with the help of social media.
  • When students Briann Gardiner and Astacio Ariza spearheaded the Horse Stable Beach renovation after hurricanes Irma and Maria. Briann went on to become a National Honors and Awards recipient ;
  • Janella Forbes winning the Turks and Caicos Film Festival Art competition after accepting a last-minute invitation to Provo on a Sunday (I was shocked when her mom said she could go with me)!
  • Nominating Jessica Corvil for the 1st annual National Honors and Awards which she won easily for her then, girls’ empowerment movement;
  • Honouring people from all walks of life for their contribution to society through her celebrated poems

“As I leave, I wish to showcase, once more, the plethora of talent that abounds in our country.  The entertainment for the awards ceremony is chock full of mostly unknown amazing talent.  I want them to be recognized for their gift,” she explained

She is also very grateful to the people who donated time and more to the causes on North Caicos, “This has been a marvelous journey because whenever I asked, and lord knows I was always asking, they spoke yes – fluently!  Hence, the reason for my Swan Song.”

The event started out as a simple commemorative awards ceremony to be held on March 19th but has swelled into a slew of activities with a walkathon on Saturday March 18th which she says will include uniformed personnel  and is open to the general public.

After March 31st someone else will stand in her role but Cynclair says she has hasting dreams for her island.

“My hope is that residents of North Caicos become entrepreneurs rather than employees.  We are on the cusp of a development boom.  I hope that our locals benefit greatly.  The local Chamber of Commerce can serve to drive this. As the island grows, its people should not be left behind,” adding, “As I vacate the office of the District Commissioner, I am compelled to say thank you to this core group.  I know many may say that I left them out.  But, my gratitude is for one and all.”

Cynclair’s Swan Song will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 19th at Horse Stable Beach Community Centre.

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TCI Police encourage ‘vigilance in support’ as Ministry of Education announces 232-SAFE Lifeline following Teenager Suicide

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Turks and Caicos, November 4, 2024 – Around 1 a.m. on Sunday October 29, a 17-year old teenager was found by his father, unresponsive at their Palm Grove home and police confirm they are looking into the heartbreaking death as a suspected suicide.

The boy was reportedly found hanging.  School was dismissed early and a new avenue for access to qualified help has been announced by the Minister of Education.

“We know that this is an incredibly difficult time for the school and larger community as it is still a shock to lose someone in such a tragic manner.  The Ministry of Education through its Student Support Services continues to provide emotional and psychological support and we urge all our students who are in need of intervention to use the services available to them including the Student Support Services Hotline number 232-SAFE (7233).  The Ministry considers its responsibility for the safety and well-being of children of utmost importance.”

The official report, by Royal TCI Police Force explained: Officers were called to the scene shortly after 1:00 a.m., where the minor was found unresponsive.  Medical personnel confirmed his passing shortly afterwards.

Assistant Superintendent attached to the Safeguarding and Public Protection Unit Grantley Williams said, “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends during this difficult time.  The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force has initiated an investigation to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragedy.  We recognize that the loss of a young life impacts an entire community.”

Indeed it does.  The Turks and Caicos has been overwhelmed by an uncharacteristically high rate of murder, hitting a record 41 homicides this year; the latest recorded on Sunday November 3, 2024.

This suspected suicide has demanded a different kind of alarm and officials are swift to offer advice.

“As we grieve alongside the minor’s family and community, we want to encourage everyone to remain vigilant in supporting each other.  This loss is a reminder of how important it is to reach out to those around us who may be facing emotional struggles.

“I also wish to appeal to the public; please exercise respect, humanity and sensitivity in what you post or circulate on social media platforms regarding this tragedy.”

The Ministry of Education swooped in as well; identifying the teenager later that day.

“The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture is deeply saddened by the passing of a form 5 student, Lizander Francis, of the HJ Robinson High School. This is indeed a very unfortunate incident, and we extend sympathy to the family, principal, staff and students of the school.

The Ministry is committed to doing everything to lend support to the family, student population and staff. As an immediate response, the Student Support Services (a multiagency initiative) has been activated, where debriefing sessions are being conducted with all students and teachers. The Department of Social Development and the Department of Behavioural Health Services together with Guidance Counselors across Grand Turk have been mobilized to provide psychological first aid to all affected persons. In the coming days, continued group and individual intervention sessions will be extended to students and staff at HJ Robinson High School.”

Lizander Francis was a Fifth Form student at the HJ Robinson High School and a member of the Cadet Corps.  He was a very jovial young man who cared about his classmates and his friends.  He was well mannered, kind, respectful, diligent and full of promise.

The Honorable Rachel M. Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Cultureand the team from the Ministry, Departments and all schools, extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Lizander Francis during this time of profound loss. The Minister stated, “The loss of a child is an unimaginable sorrow, and our hearts naturally seek understanding in moments like these. I commend you to Almighty God and encourage you to find strength and comfort in trusting Him.”

TCI Police also informed, the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH), an arm of the Department of Social Development and Welfare, should be contacted at 338 4013 if you have any concerns about a child you believe has been harmed or is at risk of harm. Persons are also encouraged to dial 911.

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Fredrico Johnson Appointed to Permanent Secretary

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Turks and Caicos, November 2, 2024 – The Office of the Deputy Governor is excited to announce the appointment of Fredrico Johnson to Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Mr. Johnson is a distinguished senior management leader with over ten years of experience in both public and private sectors.  Most recently, he served as Deputy Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Home Affairs, where he directed the development and implementation of essential policies, ensured public service accountability, and promoted strategic initiatives focused on talent development and succession planning. His contributions to policy development included leading a delegation to the Bahamas for insights into a local government policy initiative and addressing public service backlogs, which greatly enhanced operational efficiency.

Additionally, Mr. Johnson previously served as District Commissioner, managing government services, projects, and financial planning on the island while collaborating with various government departments to deliver critical community services.

Currently, Mr. Johnson is pursuing a Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Walden University (expected 2025) and holds a Bachelor of Science in Management with a concentration in International Business from Johnson & Wales University. His ongoing professional development includes certifications in emergency management, urban search and rescue, and results-driven development.

In response to his appointment, Mr. Johnson shared his thoughts: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to be appointed as the Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Home Affairs. This role presents an incredible opportunity to serve our nation and its people, and I am driven by the belief that we must let our passion drive our success. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my support system and mentors, who have offered encouragement, guidance, and prayers throughout the years. Their unwavering support has been invaluable on this journey. A special thank you goes to Permanent Secretary James Astwood for his exemplary leadership over the past few years. His dedication and commitment have laid a strong foundation for us to build upon. I am also grateful to our Deputy Governor for her visionary approach, which has provided young leaders in the public service with the platform to grow, flourish, and lead. To the entire team, I am excited to work alongside you as we continue progressing and enhancing our ministry’s service to the public. Together, I am confident we will achieve great things.”

H.E. Anya Williams, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, expressed her congratulations, stating, “It is with great enthusiasm that I congratulate Mr. Johnson on his appointment to Permanent Secretary. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to public service. He assisted in leading strategic initiatives that not only improved operational efficiency but also significantly elevated the level of service within the Ministry of Home Affairs. I have every confidence that he will bring the same dedication and innovative thinking to this new role, and I look forward to witnessing the continued positive impact he will have on the Ministry and the public service at large.

Congratulations to Mr. Johnson on your well-deserved promotion”.

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Edgar Howell appointed as Deputy Secretary

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Turks and Caicos, November 2, 2024 – The Office of the Deputy Governor is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Edgar Howell as the new Deputy Secretary within the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture.

Mr. Howell brings a rich educational background, holding an Associates Degree in Biology from the College of the Bahamas (now the University of the Bahamas), a Bachelor’s Degree in Zoology and Biochemistry from the University of the West Indies, and a Master’s Degree with distinction in Education Management. He embodies the philosophy that “Education is a lifelong journey,” continually pursuing professional development opportunities that enhance his skills and benefit his responsibilities.

Most recently, Mr. Howell served as Director of Education for fifteen years, following a five-year tenure as Deputy Director of Education. His extensive experience also includes four years of teaching Math, Chemistry, and Integrated Science at Clement Howell High School and one year as Head Teacher at Oseta Jolly Primary School.

Mr. Edgar Howell shared his thoughts on his new role, “Stephen Covey advised – ‘You have to decide what your highest priorities are and have the courage—pleasantly, smilingly, non-apologetically, to say ‘no’ to other things. And the way you do that is by having a bigger ‘yes’ burning inside.’ I accepted that my bigger yes is to nation-building and focused on education and families. While this appointment as Deputy Permanent Secretary includes wider TCIG responsibilities, my values of Faith, Family, Patriotism, and Stewardship keep my bigger yes well aligned. My parents instilled a belief that ‘a charge to keep have I, a God to glorify…’ As always, I lean on the promise of Isaiah 41:10 – ‘So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

E. Anya Williams, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service expressed her confidence in Mr. Howell’s capabilities, stating, “I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Howell on his new appointment. His unwavering dedication to the education sector over many years, coupled with his passion for nurturing the potential of our youth, is truly commendable. We eagerly look forward to the contributions he will further bring to our educational initiatives and the positive impact he will make in fostering the development of our community and the bright future of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Congratulations, Mr Howell, on your well-deserved promotion.”

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