TCI News
Beaches Resorts hosted industry trailblazers at 5th Annual “Social Media on the Sand”
#Providenciales, October 24, 2019 – Turks and Caicos – Last week, 100 elite digital mom bosses spent five days learning modern-day marketing secrets from some of the world’s brightest business entrepreneurs. The 5th annual “Social Media on the Sand” conference took place October 16-20, 2019, at Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages and Spa, and offered #BeachesMoms a first-hand look at how to sharpen their social media skills, grow their online presence and get inspired by other talented like-minded women.
Voted one of BizBash’s Most Innovative Meetings of 2018, this sold out, invitation-only event took attendees on a journey of the five senses to commemorate its 5th year through the sounds of social media success. The conference featured speeches from keynote industry innovators who shared their inspiring and educational stories on how they built their brands, as well as fireside track sessions that spotlighted topics such as learning tips on how to monetize a blog to partnering with brands to build awareness.
“Remarkable things happen when moms come together. Each year Beaches® Resorts brings a new group of outstanding people to help motivate and inspire our conference guests with their own knowledge and industry expertise,” said Debbie-Ann White, SVP, Public Relations and Promotions at Unique Vacations, Inc. “Social Media on the Sand offers a unique platform for not only professional growth, but for personal growth through sparked conversations, authentic connections and shared experiences between the modern working moms.”
THE CONFERENCE
This year, Beaches’ handpicked list of guest speakers and keynotes included three of the most accomplished modern brand builders and industry titans: Rebecca Minkoff (co-founder and creative director of the eponymous fashion powerhouse), who gave an inside look at how her business grew from the ground up; Jamie Kern Lima (co-founder of IT Cosmetics, a top-selling makeup and skincare brand), who spoke on the power of authenticity and honing in on the “why’s” behind what motivates us; and Daymond John (investor on the ABC reality television series Shark Tank), who shared his personal key lessons from social media, as well as goal setting tips to achieve your dreams.
“Equally as important as building yourself and your brand is building a group of strong team members to support you,” said Rebecca Minkoff. “We’re only human, which means we can’t be experts in everything. So, we need to take a step back and hire experts to support us in areas where we are not experts ourselves.”
“The journey that you’re on is your authenticity,” said Jamie Kern Lima. “Your community will know if you’re faking it, so it’s crucial to trust your gut and remain your authentic self along the way.”
“Don’t put anything out there if you can’t own it,” said Daymond John. “I’ve learned that due diligence starts with social media, and you need to be able to authentically own the content you’re putting out there – don’t just post something to post it, there needs to be a purpose.”
OTHER EVENTS & NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
The “Social Media on the Sand” conference also featured several fun twists on networking and curated experiences to further ignite attendees’ senses. This included a Match Ups & Mimosas event, where the #BeachesMoms mixed and mingled over mimosas, complete with a scent sommelier to customize perfume inspired by tropical cocktails. Other activities included a Health and Wellness Village presented by the Red Lane® Spa, multiple Beauty & the Beach suite activities featuring Drybar styling and makeup by IT Cosmetics, and even a special concert performance by platinum-selling recording artist, Hunter Hayes. Also new to this year’s conference was a 5 Senses on the Sand pop up, which offered the perfect gram-worthy backdrops for guests to capture interactive and authentic content right on the beach, and a Silent DiscGLOW, which was a blacklight haven that offered guests a sensory overload. To top things off, #BeachesMoms and their families immersed themselves in a world of pure imagination at Willy Wonka’s Splendiferous Fun Factory on National Sweetest Day, October 19th, with everything from gumdrop trees to a scratch & sniff wall sponsored by Air Esscentials. One lucky attendee won the ultimate golden ticket – a return trip to the 6th annual “Social Media on the Sand” conference.
“SEA THE FUTURE” WITH THE SANDALS FOUNDATION
In addition to having access to the picture-perfect Instagram moments and networking opportunities to establish new genuine connections, conference attendees had the chance to learn about the Sandals Foundation – the philanthropic arm of Sandals Resorts International – and its initiatives that are near and dear to the heart of Beaches Resorts. The week kicked off with a “Sea the Future Welcome Party” presented by the Foundation, which immersed conference guests in the Sandals Foundation’s mission of making a difference in the Caribbean and celebrated the Foundation’s 10-year milestone anniversary. Not only were guests exposed to the Foundation’s mission and one of its core pillars, environmental awareness, but they were joined by award-winning NYC-based street artist Marco Santini for an interactive painting activity surrounding guests’ perceptions of the Foundation. Additionally, attendees contributed to the “Sea the Future Welcome Party” by bringing environmental-themed books to help the local children of Turks & Caicos, along with raising funds for the Foundation in a silent auction. A special, heart-warming performance by local Turks & Caicos students of Long Bay High School concluded the first night, who sang one of Hunter Hayes’ songs, “Wanted,” and were taken back when Hunter Hayes himself cheered them on in the audience – setting the tone for the surprise and delights ahead.
“At Beaches Resorts, we believe one of the ways of lending support is by educating the next generation,” added Debbie-Ann White. “We see the future and it’s crystal clear – emulating the Caribbean water surrounding us.”
ADDITIONAL SPEAKERS & EVENT PARTNERS
In addition to Adam Stewart (Deputy Chairman of Sandals Resorts International) and Debbie-Ann White (SVP of Public Relations and Promotions of Unique Vacations, Inc.), they were joined by speakers including Shannon Levis (Facebook), Courtney Heimlich (YouTube), Landyn Hutchinson (Lifestyle Expert, Living With Landyn), Melissa Gerstein (co-founder, The MOMS Network), Meaghan Murphy (Executive Editor of Good Housekeeping), Emily Kaufman (travel writer, The Travel Mom), Audrey McClelland (co-founder, MomGenerations.com), Amy Choi (Head of Brand Partnerships, ShopStyle), Amanda Perna (seasoned fashion and textile designer, The House of Perna), Rosemarie T. Truglio (SVP of Curriculum and Content at Sesame Workshop), Michelle Kreher (Senior Manager of Themed Entertainment at Sesame Workshop), Ellen Heaney (Senior Brand Manager for Spin Master Games), Mykella Gannon (Marketing Director, COOLA), Julie Nowell (founder and principal of 3c Consulting), Myron Pincomb (CEO and Board Chairman of The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards) and popular content creators Terrell and Jarius Joseph, April Athena, and Jessica Skube of JessFam.
Event partners included Rebecca Minkoff, Spin Master Games, Drybar, IT Cosmetics, COOLA Suncare, JetBlue, Swarovski, The House of Perna, good2grow™, Sesame Workshop, HAPARI Swimwear, Sprout®, abercrombie kids, SNUBA, Red Lane® Spa, Kim Crawford Wines, Pevonia, Air Esscentials, Sanitas, Bling2o, Playskool, The Incy Wincies, Saltability, SNUBA, the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), BLVisuals, Rockabye Baby, PLAYSKOOL, SpaRitual, School Specialty™, FLOW, PADI: Professional Association of Diving Instructors, Alliance Connection Productions, Gifts for the Good Life, Florabella Studios, Kelly + Jones and The Sandals Foundation.
For more information on #SocialMediaontheSand, please visit socialmediaonthesand.com. To check out more photos from the conference, please visit the official event Pinterest board here.
Release: Sandals Resorts
Photo Caption: (Daymond John and Rebecca Minkoff following an ocean-side chat at Beaches Turks & Caicos, John Parra – Gettyimages)
PRESS RELEASE
MINISTRY OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 25 April 2024 – The Ministry of Health and Human Services is issuing a public advisory regarding a recent increase in chicken pox cases, particularly within school communities in the regions of Grand Turk and Providenciales. The Ministry is actively monitoring the situation and is working closely with affected schools to provide support and education aimed at preventing further spread of the virus.
Chicken pox, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is a highly contagious infection characterized by a distinctive rash of itchy red spots or blisters. Transmission occurs via droplets, aerosols, or direct contact with respiratory secretions, and almost always produces clinical disease in susceptible individuals. While mostly a mild disorder in childhood, varicella tends to be more severe in adults. It may be fatal, especially in neonates and in immunocompromised persons. The Ministry urges parents, teachers, and the general public to remain vigilant and familiarize themselves with the signs and symptoms of chicken pox, which may include:
- Rash: The primary symptom of chicken pox is a rash that typically begins as small red spots, which then develop into fluid-filled blisters over several days.
- Fever: Children with chicken pox may experience a mild to moderate fever, often preceding the appearance of the rash.
- Fatigue: Some individuals may feel generally unwell, tired, or lethargic.
- Loss of Appetite: A decreased desire to eat may accompany other symptoms of chicken pox.
Management aims to relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of complications and may include:
- drinking plenty of fluid (try popsicles if your child is not drinking) to avoid dehydration.
- taking paracetamol to help with pain and discomfort.
- cut your child’s fingernails and put socks on their hands at night to stop them scratching.
- use cooling creams or gels e.g. Calamine lotion
- speak to your health care provider about using antihistamine medicine to help itching.
- bathe in cool water and pat the skin dry (do not rub)
- dress in loose clothes.
- do not use ibuprofen unless advised to do so by a doctor, as it may cause serious skin infections.
- do not give aspirin to children under 16.
- do not go near newborn babies, or anyone who is pregnant or has a weakened immune system, as chickenpox can be dangerous for them.
- do not scratch the spots, as scratching can cause scarring.
To mitigate the spread of chicken pox within schools and communities, the Ministry emphasizes the importance of practicing good hygiene habits, including frequent handwashing with soap and water, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
In the event that a child exhibits symptoms of chicken pox, parents and caregivers are advised to keep them at home and seek medical attention promptly. A sick leave for a period of 14 days is usually given. After the 14 day sick leave period, the individual must return to the physician or the public health nurse at one of the primary care clinics to obtain a fit for work or school certificate allowing them re-entry back into school or work. Anyone returning earlier than this time or without this certificate should not be allowed in school so as to prevent spread to other children. Additionally, it is crucial to inform school authorities to prevent further transmission among classmates and staff.
The Ministry of Health and Human Services is committed to ensuring the health and well-being of all citizens, and will continue to work diligently to address this current situation. For further information and guidance on chicken pox prevention and management, please visit Turks and Caicos Islands Ministry of Health and Human Services Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.
Wilkie Arthur
Freelance Court Correspondent
#TurksandCaicos, April 25, 2024 – He was busted at the Howard Hamilton Providenciales International Airport on Friday, April 16, 2024.
He allegedly had in his luggage four (4) rounds of 6.5mm ammunition on his departure to his homeland in Oklahoma in the United States of America (USA).
Ryan Watson and his wife were arrested and placed into police lock up. Both were later granted police bail, and upon return to police station the Monday after the couple’s arrest, the husband alone was charged by detective Police Constable Kimberlee Markland for
unlawful possession of the four rounds of ammunition.
Watson was escorted to court on Tuesday, April 23rd, placed before the learned Chief Magistrate Mr. Jolyon Hatmin and remanded to His Majesty’s Prison until his sufficiency hearing on June 7, this (2024) year.
His counsel, Mr. Oliver Smith KC and his junior assistant Mrs. Kimone Tennant immediately sought bail for him in the Supreme Court which was heard the following day (Wednesday April 24) before her Ladyship Ms. Tanya Lobban-Jackson and was granted bail, without hassle in the amount or $15,000.00 cash or surety.
The Crown, in the person of senior public prosecutor Ms. Tassja Mitchell did not oppose bail.
Magnetic Media can report that once again on the afternoon of the Tuesday April 24th, after the accused RYAN TYLER WATSON, 41 was remanded by the Magistrate’s court, the U.S. Embassy issued an warning to it’s citizens and travelers to carefully check their bags when traveling to Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) as TCI authorities are strictly enforcing firearm and ammunition laws and if found you could go to prison for 12 years.
A real question of great concern and public importance is: should the TCI courts sentence tourists to the full mandatory minimum of 12 years imprisonment for simple possession firearm and/or ammunition.
The succinct answer is: Yes!
The Court of Appeal, just last month said in its written judgment that “ALL PERSONS,” including tourist/visitors must go to prison if found guilty or pleas guilty to firearm and ammunition offences.
However, there remains the concern about how much time in prison a judge should give a visitor regardless of the existence of exceptional circumstances.
Should the judge imprison a visitor to the territory, who may have been wrongly informed, for example, the full mandatory minimum term or must a reduced prison term be imposed.
If TCI judges start to give less than the mandatory minimum to tourists/visitors, it is being strong and widely advocated by senior defense attorneys that the same must apply to local or residents of these Islands, who may also present exceptional circumstances.
Arguments about the equity in delivery of justice is what drove the question to the Court of Appeal late in 2023. The decision came this past February.
‘We cannot find ourselves sentencing tourists regardless of exceptional circumstances to lesser sentences, and when those same exceptional circumstances are found in local cases, it’s being ignored by our judges.’
Human Rights Attorney, Sheena Mair has on more than one occasion argued this point; including in firearm and ammunition bail applications. She would put the very same judges and prosecutors from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution on the spot by reminding the judges and the prosecutors that precedent has been set.
‘You’ve just granted bail to a tourist for firearm and ammunition but now here’s a local person, same charge but because he’s a local he can’t get bail? He has to be remanded pending a trial that could take years before it’s heard?’
Mair has valiantly outlined the wrong in this and clearly stated this practice is “not fair” and it’s “not proper administration of justice in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
Ms. Mair further complained that tourists would plea guilty to possession of firearm and ammunition and be released on bail pending sentencing but as for a local, he or she has to wait on remand at the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation pending sentencing.
The attorney criticizes the optics of such decisions and is on record reminding the Judge that the Court of Appeal has already set out that the law applies to everyone; visitors and locals alike.
A police statement issued Wednesday April 24 informs: “Today (April 24th), Mr. Watson appeared in the Supreme Court and, following a bail application, was granted $15,000 bail with the following conditions:
1) Not travel out of TCI without the court’s permission.
2) Surrender his passport and all other travel documents to the court
3) Report to Grace Bay Police Station on Tuesdays and Thursdays between the hours of 8 am-4 pm,
4) Reside at the given address in Providenciales; any address change will be provided before the court.”
The American from Oklahoma whose story is trending in the US and has been carried by leading news networks was joined by a host of loved ones at the Courthouse.
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