News
Culture Awards celebrate Outstanding Contributions of the Late James S. Dean, Rev. Dr. Samuel Goldston Williams and Barbara Aretha Johnson
#TurksandCaicos, November 1, 2023 – On Monday, October 16, the Department of Culture and Heritage hosted a grand celebration to honor the remarkable achievements of three distinguished individuals: The Late James S. Dean, Rev. Dr. Samuel Goldston Williams, and Miss Barbara Aretha Johnson. The event took place at Shore Club, in Providenciales and showcased their invaluable contributions to the enrichment of our cultural heritage. This
prestigious evening also featured a captivating musical tribute by a lineup of talented local artists.
The Culture Awards event was not only an occasion to celebrate outstanding individuals but also a platform to showcase the vibrancy of our cultural scene. The dance performance by the Friends of the Arts group enthralled the audience with their artistic expression and grace. Their choreography displayed the power of movement as a form of cultural storytelling, and their dedication to the art of dance was evident in every step.
The cultural presentation by the Ianthe Pratt Primary School was a heartwarming testament to the importance of nurturing culture from a young age. The students’ performance of our folksongs was a delightful and insightful journey through various aspects of our cultural heritage. Their enthusiastic presentation served as a reminder of the need to pass down our cultural traditions and values to the next generation.
“We were honored to have the Friends of the Arts group and the Ianthe Pratt Primary School join us for this year’s Culture Awards event. Their performances added depth and diversity to the evening, highlighting the artistic talents of our young people” said Ludwina Fulford, Director of Culture and Heritage.
Director Fulford continued by saying “Culture is a living, breathing entity that thrives through performances like these, and it is our duty to encourage and support such endeavors. We take immense pride in celebrating the Late James S. Dean, Rev. Dr. Samuel G. Williams, and Barbara Aretha Johnson, as they represent the living legacy of our islands’ culture. Their work serves as a testament to the vibrant and diverse cultural heritage that is uniquely woven
into the fabric of the Turks and Caicos Islands. This event celebrated not only the past and present contributors to culture but also the promise of future artistic achievements.”
In addition to recognizing the outstanding contributions of the awardees, the Culture Awards event paid homage to the power of music in our culture by featuring a musical tribute that left the audience fascinated and some in tears. Talented local artists, namely, Krishanah Williams, Aletha Astwood, Davonte Missick, Chrystal ‘TESS’ Charles and Elroy Simmons graced the stage with their exceptional performances.
The musical tribute not only complemented the awards ceremony but also served as a reminder of the unifying power of music, capable of transcending cultural boundaries and bringing people together. Each artist’s contribution to the evening’s cultural scene was a testament to the vibrant artistic community that enriches our society. The songs sang were all from the catalog of songs that Miss Barbara Johnson has.
The Culture Awards event, along with the exceptional musical tribute, was a true celebration of culture, emphasizing the vital role it plays in our lives and the importance of recognizing those who contribute to its enrichment.
Turks and Caicos, January 20, 2025 – Her Excellency the Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam chaired the 41st meeting of Cabinet held on December 11th, 2024. All members of Cabinet were present with the exception of Hon. Rhondalee Knowles, Attorney General, with Ms. Khalila Astwood acting as Attorney General.
At this meeting Cabinet:
- Considered proposals related to the 2022 Crown Land Review Report.
- Approved the mutation of parcels 60603/57, 60610/316, 60700/107, and 20313/47, 58 & 59 and for the same to be vested with the
TCI Airports Authority. - Received a presentation on proposals on the integration of Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) technologies into programs at the Turks and Caicos Community College.
- Approved the management authority of parcel 60503/315 to the Turks & Caicos Islands Sports Commission for multi-purpose use for the development of a community park and recreational facility.
- Received a presentation from the Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission on the establishment of a National Sports Training Centre.
- Received a presentation from the Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission regarding the establishment of a Department of Parks and Recreation.
- Received a presentation from the Ministry of Health on matters relating to the National Health Insurance Board.
- Approved the re-appointment of Mrs. Angela Musgrove as the Chief Executive Officer of Invest Turks and Caicos for a three-year term.
- Approved the appointment of Mr. Henry Wilson as a member to the Fisheries Advisory Committee.
- Noted the award of the following contracts in line with the process according to the provisions of the Public Procurement Ordinance; Contract Award Notification:
- PN 005690, TR 24/09, Upgrading Bight Park
- PN 005729, TR 24/23, Vehicles for Immigration
- PN 005730, TR 24/08, DDME Communication Equipment – Mobile Antenna
- PN 005765, TR 24/31, Redevelopment of Regatta Village
- TCINIB 01/2024, TR 24/26, Vehicles for NIB
Further information on these matters will be presented by Ministers in due course.
Turks and Caicos – Her Excellency the Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam chaired the 40th meeting of Cabinet held on December 4th, 2024. All members of Cabinet were present, with the exception of Hon. Jamell Robinson, Deputy Premier and Hon. Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, Attorney General, with Ms. Khalila Astwood, acting as Attorney General.
At this meeting Cabinet:
- Approved the Turks and Caicos Islands Fiscal Strategic Policy Statement.
- Approved the negotiation of a Development Agreement/Order with Retreat Development Ltd.
- Approved the transfer of excess revenue from the Consolidated Fund into the National Wealth Fund for the Financial Year Ending 31 March 2024.
- Approved Planning Application PR 17673 for a proposed watch tower and rest station on block and parcel 60000/345 for the TCI Regiment.
- Approved the negotiation of a license agreement with the Proprietors of Balfour Salt Ltd. for a period of 10 years.
- Approved the policy document for the use of Biometrics and Introducing an Electronic Travel Authority Requirement.
- Approved the appointment of Mr. Lynden Hall Snr. as a member of the Turks and Caicos Islands Gaming Control Commission Board for a period of two years.
- Approved the write-off of water charges and penalties in accordance with Section 52 of the Public Financial Management Ordinance 2012.
Further information on these matters will be presented by Ministers in due course.
January 20th, 2024 – Nassau, Bahamas – The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) proudly announces the release of its 2023-2024 Annual Impact Report, which documents key conservation milestones achieved from January 2023 to June 2024.
Highlights from the report include: completion of the BNT’s 2024-2029 Strategic Plan – a comprehensive roadmap to guide the organization’s efforts over the next five years; the declaration of Seahorse National Park in Eleuthera as the country’s 33rd national park; advancements in critical scientific research and the creation of conservation plans aimed at protecting endangered species; major infrastructure improvements in national parks, enhancing visitor access and recreational opportunities; and new strategic partnerships with
local and national organizations for collaborative national park management.
“The past 18 months have been a pivotal chapter for the BNT,” said Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle, Executive Director of The Bahamas National Trust. “With the unwavering support of our members, donors, and partners, we’ve expanded our national park system, advanced critical conservation efforts, made major infrastructure improvements in national parks, and connected thousands of Bahamians to their parks. These achievements underscore the power of collaboration and inspire us to continue building a future where people and nature thrive together.”
Looking to the future, the BNT’s 2024-2029 Strategic Plan prioritizes enhanced park management, tackling climate resilience, addressing invasive species, and strengthening community partnerships to ensure the sustainability of The Bahamas’ national parks.
The Bahamas National Trust extends heartfelt thanks to its supporters for making these achievements possible, and invites everyone to explore the full 2023-2024 Impact Report on its website at https://bnt.bs/2023-2024-impact-report/.
To learn more about the BNT’s role in managing national parks, protecting wildlife, and informing environmental policy, please visit its website: www.bnt.bs, and follow its various social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
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