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John Wood: A Shining Example of Dedication and Resilience  

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Turks and Caicos, November 19, 2024 – PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: John Wood, now 83 years old, stands as a shining example of dedication and resilience. Born in Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands, and raised in Nassau, Bahamas, John’s journey spans over five decades of professional excellence.

His career in the hospitality industry began in the Bahamas. He dedicated 27 years at a beach hotel as a store manager where he managed the day to day operations of goods and equipment within the resort. Here he sharpened his leadership skills and solved complex challenges. Afterwards, he spent two years in Freeport, working on the construction of underground insulation pipes for a resort golf course. This marked a total of 29 years in the Bahamian hotel industry.

In 1995, John moved to Turks and Caicos and started working at Beaches Turks and Caicos (BTC). Starting as a store manager, he saw a need for more efficiency and introduced forklifts at the resort. Before the use of the machine, most cargo was moved by hand, which made storing goods burdensome. His penchant for problem solving greatly improved the storage and transportation processes and remains one of his most memorable contributions to the company.

Now, John holds a trusted position in the finance and accounts department, as the resort bearer. In addition to his years of experience, he continues to be a cornerstone for the younger workforce, offering wisdom and practical advice. His approach to problem-solving, directly addressing issues with those responsible, has become a guiding principle at BTC. “If you have a problem with someone, go directly to the person and discuss it, so both people benefit from it,” he shared.

He lives by the golden rule, “do to others what you would have them do to you. If you give love, love you will receive.” This mindset has strengthened his reputation as a friendly and helpful presence at the resort.

His personal life is as rich as his professional one. He is a father to seven children, though, his son Kicer Zern Wood tragically passed away after joining the U.S. Air Force. He continues to speak very fondly of Kicer, describing him as caring, helpful, blessed, good-hearted, and a gift to those around him. These traits reflect John’s own character and emphasises the strong family bonds central to his life.

“For as long as I have known Mr Wood, he has always represented the company and himself in a polite and respectful manner,” stated James McAnally, managing director. “He is a trustworthy, reliable, helpful, and friendly coworker who is always authentic in everything,” he added.

John believes in continuous improvement and is currently updating his education through the Sandals Corporate University (SCU). He believes in the importance of keeping himself up to date, especially in these changing times.

Ella Martin, financial controller at BTC, praises John’s professionalism and dedication, saying, “John continues to deliver everything he does in a highly professional manner.” She added, “John Wood is like fine wine; the older he gets, the better he gets.”As John prepares for retirement next year, he reflects on his legacy at BTC. He hopes to be remembered as a friendly and helpful individual who always lifts others up. His advice to future generations is simple: stay focused on your passions, perform with love and dedication, and always double-check your work.

When asked what animal embodies his character, John chose a horse. He explained that horses symbolise strength, loyalty, and resilience. Like a horse, John Wood is celebrated at BTC for his dedication and enduring spirit.

John’s story is a testament to the impact one person can have on a community and company like BTC. His unique blend of experience, wisdom, and kindness makes him an integral part of the BTC family, leaving a legacy that will inspire generations to come.

 

Captions:

Header: Beaches Turks and Caicos veteran John Wood prepares to get onboard his vehicle as he heads off to one of his daily activity

1st insert: John Wood (left) prepares to sign off on a document with Beaches Turks and Caicos General Cashier Janet King at the Finance office at the resort

2nd insert: John Wood (left) and Janet King, General Cashier at Beaches Turks and Caicos share a light moment in the Finance Offices at the resort

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Police Commissioner Honoured with Distinguished Civic Service Award at TCHTA Star Awards

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey has been recognised for his contribution to national security and the tourism industry, receiving the Distinguished Civic Service Award at the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association’s Star Awards held on February 19, 2026 at Beaches Turks and Caicos.

The annual awards ceremony is the premier recognition event for the territory’s hospitality sector, bringing together industry leaders, executives and frontline professionals to celebrate excellence and the individuals whose work strengthens the destination’s global reputation.

Commissioner Bailey was honoured for his strategic leadership in the fight against crime and the measurable reductions in major offences, efforts widely credited with improving public confidence and reinforcing the Turks and Caicos Islands’ standing as a safe and competitive tourism jurisdiction.

In accepting the award, the Commissioner dedicated the recognition to the officers and staff of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, praising their commitment and professionalism in what he described as a collective national effort to make the islands more secure.

The TCHTA Star Awards spotlight the link between public safety and tourism performance, acknowledging that a stable and safe environment is essential to visitor confidence, investment and the continued growth of the sector.

This year’s ceremony featured high-energy hosting by Super P the Entertainer, with Omega serving as awards announcer, as the industry gathered to honour the people and partnerships that continue to elevate the Turks and Caicos brand.

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New Chartered Accountant Member Appointed to The Integrity Commission

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Darius E. Ferguson, Member of the Integrity Commission Board

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 27 February 2026: Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, today announced the appointment of Mr. Darius E. Ferguson as a Member of the Integrity Commission Board, serving as the Chartered Accountant Member in accordance with Section 3(2)(a) of the Integrity Commission Ordinance. His appointment is for a period of three (3) years and follows consultation with the President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Society of Professional Accountants.

Mr. Ferguson, with family ties to Providenciales and South Caicos, is a Chartered Accountant with over twenty years of senior leadership experience across aviation, finance, technology and consultancy, he brings a strong and diverse background in financial governance, regulatory compliance and strategic planning.

A former Chief Financial Officer of Sky Bahamas Airlines for a decade, Mr. Ferguson managed all financial reporting, regulatory engagement, capital projects and commercial development initiatives. He previously served in senior audit roles at both Ernst & Young LLP and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, leading high‑risk audit engagements and ensuring adherence to international financial and accounting standards.

Throughout his career, Mr. Ferguson has demonstrated a strong commitment to professional ethics, community leadership and organisational accountability. His experience across corporate governance, financial oversight, and operational risk management will bring valuable strategic insight to the Integrity Commission.

Her Excellency the Governor welcomed the appointment, stating:

“Mr. Ferguson’s extensive background in financial management, auditing and governance, together with his leadership experience across both corporate and community sectors, make him well‑suited to serve on the Integrity Commission. His appointment strengthens our ongoing commitment to integrity, transparency and accountability in public life. I am confident that he will make a meaningful contribution to the Commission’s important work.”

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Multi-Agency Planning Enforcement Action Conducted in Five Cays

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 27 February 2026: The Informal Settlements Unit (ISU), in collaboration with key government agencies, coordinated a multi-agency enforcement exercise on Thursday, 5 February 2026, at Block and Parcel 60503/17 in the Five Cays area.

The exercise was led by the Planning Department, pursuant to its statutory authority under the Physical Planning Act to address unauthorised development. The ISU coordinated the operation, with support provided by the Crown Land Unit and the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force, while the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force ensured security throughout the activity.

The enforcement action formed part of a Public Private Partnership initiative between the Turks and Caicos Islands Government and private landowners. The registered owners of the land would have sought the state’s assistance to issue copies of Section 58 Enforcement Notices on unlawful structures identified on the parcel. The subject parcel comprises approximately 25 acres extending across Millennium Highway.

During the exercise, a total of fifty-four (54) copies of the Enforcement Notice were issued on structures located on the parcel. Notices were affixed to structures and served on persons found to be occupying illegal developments.

The Informal Settlements Unit reiterates that these coordinated enforcement exercises form part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to uphold planning regulations, protect property rights, and promote orderly and lawful development. Persons undertaking construction are reminded that development without the requisite planning approvals is unlawful and subject to enforcement action.

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