Michael Jackson nabs new chart record thanks to ‘Thriller’
Michael Jackson just landed a new chart record.
Billboard reports that following Halloween, Jackson's song "Thriller" -- which initially peaked at #4 in 1984 -- has jumped from #32 to #10 on the Hot 100 singles chart. That makes the late King of Pop the first solo artist ever to hit the top 10 in six different decades: the '70s, '80s, '90s, 2000s, '10s and '20s.
Michael has now passed the record set by Andy Williams, who reached the top 10 in five decades, mostly thanks to his holiday hit "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year."
After reaching the top 10 for the first time in 1969 as a member of the Jackson 5, Michael first hit the top 10 as a solo artist in 1971 with his song "Got to Be There." Until now, he was last in the top 10 in 2018, as a featured artist on Drake's song "Don't Matter to Me."
MINISTRY OF TOURISM AND EXPERIENCE TURKS AND CAICOS CELEBRATE TOURISM ENVIRONMENT AWARENESS MONTH 2025
NATURE’S PASSPORT FEST TAKES CENTRE STAGE IN THIS YEAR’S CELEBRATION
The Ministry of Tourism and Experience Turks and Caicos are celebrating Tourism Environment Awareness Month (TEAM) this November under the theme: “Nature’s Passport – Stamp Your Journey, Leave No Trace.”
The theme highlights the Turks and Caicos Islands’ exceptional natural beauty while promoting responsible tourism and environmental stewardship. It invites visitors and residents to explore the islands as part of “Nature’s Passport,” where each experience is a stamp of discovery that leaves no lasting impact—only appreciation and respect for the environment.
“Our goal is to strengthen the foundation of our industry through collaboration and accountability,” said Minister of Tourism, Hon. Zhavargo Jolly. “By uniting public and private stakeholders, we can create a tourism model that is sustainable, inclusive, and resilient—one that secures the long-term prosperity of our islands while ensuring the Turks and Caicos Islands remain Beautiful by Nature for generations to come.”
Mr. Paul Pennicook, Interim CEO Consultant of Experience Turks and Caicos, said: “The theme calls on everyone to celebrate the islands’ vibrant ecosystems, its pristine beaches, coral reefs, mangroves, wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, while embracing the principles of ‘Leave No Trace’.”
The TEAM 2025 Calendar of Events was designed to encourage broad participation from both residents and visitors. Activities include career and entrepreneurship fairs across the islands and a series of Eco-Stamps clean-up campaigns.
A major highlight of the month will be Nature’s Passport Fest – An Eco-Educational Celebration of TCI, taking place on Saturday, November 8th, at The Bight Children’s Park. The event encourages participants to collect stamps in a special TEAM passport as they engage with local vendors and eco-focused exhibitors.
Patrons will also have the opportunity to win exciting prizes, including a 50 percent discount on a Half-Day Cruise with Lady Turkuoise. The festival will be hosted by Super P and Arielle Neely, featuring entertainment by DJ Young Squad, Breezy Bay Dancers, A Plus Band, and Levenia Bishop (Spoken Word).
Nature’s Passport Fest runs from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and is free to the public.
ISU’S COMMUNITY OUTREACH CARAVAN BRINGS SERVICES AND ENGAGEMENT TO GRAND TURK RESIDENTS
The Informal Settlements Unit (ISU) successfully hosted its Community Outreach Caravan on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the Parade Grounds in Grand Turk, drawing participation from residents and key stakeholders.
The event was part of the ISU’s continuing efforts to engage communities across the Turks and Caicos Islands, raise awareness of the Social Needs Assessment Survey, and reinforce the Unit’s visibility and collaboration with agencies and residents in advancing sustainable development.
Attendees benefited from a range of services provided by partner agencies, including the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME), Red Cross, Free Legal Aid Clinic of the TCI Bar Council, Health Promotions and Advocacy Unit, Dental Health Department, and Primary Health Care Unit. These services included free health checks, dental consultations, disaster preparedness information and material, as well as legal support.
In attendance at the event were the Honourable Edwin Astwood, Member of Parliament for Grand Turk South and Salt Cay and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament and the Honourable Otis Morris, Member of Parliament for Grand Turk North, and Minister of Public Safety and Utilities, both of whom commended the initiative and expressed their support for the ISU’s efforts in Grand Turk and the wider Turks and Caicos Islands.
Residents visiting the ISU booth at the event were able to learn more about the Social Needs Assessment Survey, an ongoing initiative designed to gather accurate, community-level data to inform national policy on the management of informal settlements. ISU representatives engaged directly with attendees, sharing information about the Unit’s mandate and encouraging participation in the survey.
According to feedback received during the event, the Caravan was well-received by residents, who appreciated the opportunity to access all the services on offer in one location while learning about ongoing national efforts to improve living standards and community resilience.
The Community Outreach Caravan series serves as the public-facing component of the ISU’s broader outreach strategy. It brings essential services, information, and engagement opportunities directly to communities, ensuring that residents are informed and involved in the process of building a more sustainable Turks and Caicos Islands.
GOVERNMENT REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO SUPPORTING LOCAL VENDORS WHILE UPHOLDING LAWFUL AND SUSTAINABLE BEACH OPERATIONS AT SAPODILLA BAY
The Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCIG) wishes to assure the public that it remains fully committed to supporting local entrepreneurship and creating long-term, sustainable opportunities for Turks and Caicos Islanders to thrive within the tourism industry.
The Government assures that no jobs or opportunities are being taken away from local vendors operating at Sapodilla Bay and that recent actions taken by the Department of Planning and the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) are not intended to disrupt livelihoods, but to ensure all vendors operate safely, legally, and within the standards expected of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ luxury tourism offering.
This Government has always stood for empowering our people through opportunity,” says Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Hon. Charles Washington Misick. “What we are doing at Sapodilla Bay is not about removing livelihoods, it’s about ensuring those livelihoods are sustainable, safe, and in keeping with the laws of our land. We are creating a long-term framework that gives Turks and Caicos Islanders not only the chance to earn today but to build lasting businesses that will thrive tomorrow.”
Currently, five vendors operating at Sapodilla Bay have been notified that their unauthorised structures must be removed. One vendor, in particular, has erected a permanent structure in violation of planning regulations, DECR ordinances, and the conditions of his business licence, which stipulates mobile operations only. Despite several previous warnings, the infraction has persisted.
New notices will be issued, granting 28 days’ notice before any demolition occurs. During this time, the vendors will be allowed to operate on Sapodilla Beach under temporary tents supplied by Experience Turks and Caicos.
Plans are underway for the development of a modern, purpose-built vendor facility across from the beach entrance. The facility will feature aesthetically designed booths, restrooms, and dedicated parking to enhance both the vendor and visitor experience. Once completed, the vendors will be relocated to this new facility.
Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, Hon. Arlington Musgrove, said: “Our priority is to bring order and fairness to how public spaces are used. While we support our local entrepreneurs, we must also ensure that all activities align with planning and environmental regulations. The new vendor site will provide a proper, beautiful, and safe space for business to flourish, one that reflects our national standards and preserves the integrity of Sapodilla Bay.”
“The Ministry of Tourism and Experience Turks and Caicos are dedicated to ensuring the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands benefit from the tourism industry,” said Minister of Tourism, Agriculture, Fisheries and Environment, Hon. Zhavargo Jolly. “We are not taking away opportunities to earn but enhancing them by ensuring our vendors operate with pride and professionalism. To that end, we are looking into the acquisition of the adjacent beachfront property for a permanent facility for our vendors.”
Through this initiative, the Government reaffirms its commitment to empowering locals, protecting public spaces, and ensuring the sustainable development of the Turks and Caicos Islands for generations to come.
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT COMPLETES INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ASSESSMENT AND TRAINING WITH SUPPORT FROM PAHO/WHO
The Public & Environmental Health Department, in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) and the Ministry of Health and Human Services, is pleased to announce the successful completion of the Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) Assessment and Training Program in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Led by PAHO Consultant Mr. Jose C. Espino, the initiative focused on building the capacity of officers from the Environmental Health Department and the National Public Health Laboratory to assess, manage, and improve indoor environmental conditions across various settings, including residential, commercial, and healthcare facilities.
The training addressed the growing importance of maintaining healthy indoor environments, recognizing that factors such as inadequate ventilation, high humidity, microbial contamination, and chemical pollutants can negatively affect health, comfort, and productivity.
The program included two virtual sessions held on October 14th –15th, followed by three days of fieldwork from October 22nd-24th in Providenciales. Participants engaged in lectures, case studies, and hands-on exercises that strengthened their skills in conducting air quality assessments, identifying indoor pollutants, using monitoring instruments, and preparing clear, evidence-based reports with practical recommendations. Ambient (outdoor air quality) was also discussed, and assessments were conducted in key areas, including communities surrounding the Providenciales landfill and the Howard Hamilton International Airport.
Commenting on this important initiative, Honourable Kyle Knowles, Minister of Health and Human Services stated that “This initiative marks an important step in enhancing the technical expertise of Environmental Health Officers and Laboratory personnel and supports the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to promoting safe and healthy indoor environments across the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
The Environmental Health Department sincerely thanks PAHO/WHO for their continued support and collaboration in strengthening environmental health capacity within the Turks and Caicos Islands.
TCI BORDER FORCE CELEBRATES ONE YEAR INAUGURATION JOURNEY AND GRADUATION OF NEW RECRUITS
The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force marked a proud milestone on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, with a combined celebration of its One-Year Inauguration Journey and the Graduation Ceremony for the Class of 2025, held at the Salvation Army Hall in Providenciales. The event honored a year of dedicated service since the Border Force's official launch and welcomed a new cohort of officers committed to vigilance, national pride, and public service.
The ceremony brought together Government leaders, national security partners, officers, and families to honor Border Force’s achievements and reaffirm its mission of safeguarding the Turks and Caicos Islands. Among those in attendance were Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam; the Hon. Premier, Charles Washington Misick; the Deputy Governor, Her Excellency Anya Williams; and the Deputy Premier and Minister with responsibility for Immigration and Border Force, Hon. Jamell Robinson, along with members of Cabinet and Parliament. Their presence underscored the Government’s continued commitment to national security, good governance, and the prosperity of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
In his One-Year Reflection Address, Director General Emilio Seymour described the anniversary as a moment of “resilience, unity, and purpose,” noting that the Border Force has transitioned from a vision into a thriving national institution. He commended the dedication of officers who have transformed the organization into a modern, intelligence-driven agency unified under one mission. “Today,” he said, “the Border Force stands tall, no longer emerging, but established; no longer transitioning, but thriving. We remain steadfast in our mission of safeguarding our border and our nation’s prosperity.”
The Deputy Premier and Minister with responsibility for Immigration and Border Force, Hon. Jamell Robinson, delivered remarks on behalf of the Government, lauding the agency’s progress and the determination of its officers. “Getting to where we are, and all that we have accomplished as a Ministry with the Border Force, is by no stretch of the imagination an easy feat,” he said. “Every milestone, every achievement, and every win, no matter how small, motivates us to push past obstacles in fulfilling our mission of safeguarding our border and our nation’s prosperity.”
Minister Robinson praised the leadership of Director General Seymour and the entire team for their commitment to operational excellence, innovation, and the integration of new technologies. He reaffirmed the Government’s continued support for a Border Force that is agile, data-driven, and people-centered, adding, “With enhanced capabilities, continuous training, and modernized systems, the TCI Border Force is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with, shaping a future where border security is not just a function, but a force for national stability.”
The keynote address was delivered by National Security Advisor, Mr. John W. Priddy, who commended the professionalism and progress of the Border Force during its first year. Addressing the graduates, he said, “From this day forward, you are both guardians of the border and guardians of the brand of Turks and Caicos. Professionalism is not a uniform you put on; it is a habit you live.”
The ceremony also featured the presentation of badges and insignia to the graduating officers by Her Excellency the Deputy Governor, Anya Williams, and Director General Seymour. Each new officer was reminded that their insignia represents the public’s trust and the responsibility to uphold the highest standards of integrity and service. A special tribute was paid to retirees Dawn M. Smith, Diana I. Wilson, Karyn D. Forbes, June Harry, Brenda Higgs, Wayne Ingham, and Lyndon Jennings, who were honored for their decades of service and invaluable contribution to the establishment and success of the Border Force.
Established in 2024 through the merger of the former Customs and Immigration Departments, the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force serves as the unified border management agency responsible for facilitating legitimate trade and travel, protecting national revenue, and ensuring the security and prosperity of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
As he concluded his address, Director General Emilio Seymour reaffirmed the organization’s vision for the future: “The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force is no longer a vision; it is a reality, defined by professionalism, strengthened by partnership, and sustained by the spirit of those who serve.”
Pelican Energy TCI Announces Leadership Transition
Pelican Energy TCI today announced a leadership transition as the company embarks on its next chapter following a recent change in ownership.
Effective January 1, 2026, Devon Cox will become President of the Company, succeeding President and CEO Ruth Forbes, who, through mutual agreement with the Board of Directors, will be leaving at the end of the year after almost two decades of distinguished service. She will serve as Strategic Advisor from January until June 30, 2026.
Mrs. Forbes is the first local CEO to lead the utility. She steered the Company through a highly dynamic chapter, including the post-pandemic business landscape. Highlights of her tenure as CEO include delivering industry-leading safety performance, strong operational excellence, providing one of the most reliable energy services in the Caribbean, outstanding community outreach, and elevating the Company to Investors In People platinum status. Her commitment to both the Company and to modernizing the Turks and Caicos Islands’ (TCI) energy infrastructure to support the country’s economic growth and development over the last two decades have earned her deep respect across the utility industry and the broader business community.
Commenting on the transition, Mrs. Forbes stated, “It has been one of the greatest privileges to lead the Company over these transformative years. I’ve had the honor of working alongside a world-class team, one that consistently sets the bar for excellence in our industry. Together, with the support of our stakeholders and communities, we met the evolving energy needs of our nation and strategically positioned the company for the future.
“I am extremely proud to pass the baton to my successor, Devon Cox. He is a seasoned executive whose expertise and passion make him the ideal leader for Pelican Energy TCI’s future. I have every confidence that the Company will continue to thrive and deliver meaningful impact for the TCI.”
Chairman of Pelican Energy TCI’s Board of Directors Reuben Munger stated: “On behalf of the Board, I extend our deep appreciation to Ruth for her exemplary leadership and commitment to Pelican Energy TCI. As she transitions to Strategic Advisor, we will continue to benefit from her guidance following her long career with the Company. We wish her all the best.
“I am also pleased to congratulate her successor Devon on his appointment. His expertise and leadership make him exceptionally well positioned to lead the organization into its next phase of growth and improvement, as we focus on business transformation.”
Incoming President Devon Cox brings a wealth of experienced gained over his 17 years with the Company. He currently serves as Senior Vice President of Operations. Over the years, he has overseen several business functions, including Environment, Health and Safety, Transmission and Distribution Operations, Generation, Engineering, Facilities Management, Fleet Services, Sister Islands Operations, and more recently Customer Service. Mr. Cox earned a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, an MBA in Business Administration, and completed the Institute of Corporate Directors course through the University of Toronto.
"I am honored to lead Pelican Energy TCI at this exciting time in the Company’s evolution. With the partnership of our new owners, we will focus on improving the Company’s generation mix to effectively meet the increasing power needs of local energy consumers as well as work towards achieving TCI’s national renewable energy target. I look forward to building on the legacy of excellence and success for which the utility is known," Mr. Cox stated.
TCI Weather Forecast
The Turks and Caicos Islands lie on the convergent side of the Atlantic high-pressure ridge, supporting mostly fair weather with a slight chance of isolated showers.
WEATHER: Partly to mostly sunny with isolated showers possible this afternoon, becoming fair tonight.
WINDS: Southeasterly at 10 knots or less
SEAS: Caicos Bank – 3 feet or less; Atlantic – 2 to 4 feet
DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURE 87°F 30°C
OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURE 79°F 26°C
SUNSET: 05:11 PM
NEXT LOW TIDE: 12:23 PM (0.7 FT)
NEXT HIGH TIDE: 06:19 PM (2.6 FT)
EXTENDED FORECAST: A weak cold front will move near the Turks and Caicos Islands by Tuesday morning before dissipating. In its wake, high pressure will build across the area, leading to increasing winds and seas through midweek.
TUESDAY: Partly sunny, with a high near 86°F (30°C).
TUESDAY NIGHT: Mostly fair, with a low around 77°F (25°C).
WINDS: Northeast to east at 10 knots or less, increasing to 10 to 15 knots in the evening.
SEAS: Caicos Bank – 3 feet or less; Atlantic – 2 to 4 feet
SUNRISE: 05:54 AM
SUNSET: 05:10 PM
LOW TIDE: 12:29 AM (0.7 FT) 01:20 PM (0.7 FT)
HIGH TIDE: 07:53 AM (3.0 FT) 07:08 PM (2.6 FT)
WEDNESDAY: A low (20 to 30 percent) chance of showers across Providenciales, North Caicos, and Middle Caicos. A low (10 to 20 percent) chance of isolated showers across South Caicos, Grand Turk, and Salt Cay. Mix of sun and clouds, with a high near 86°F (30°C).
WEDNESDAY NIGHT: A low (10 to 20 percent) chance of isolated showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 77°F (25°C).
WINDS: Northeast to east at 10 to 15 knots
SEAS: Caicos Bank – 2 to 4 feet; Atlantic – 3 to 6 feet
SUNRISE: 05:54 AM
SUNSET: 05:10 PM
LOW TIDE: 01:17 AM (0.3 FT) 02:13 PM (0.7 FT)
HIGH TIDE: 07:44 AM (3.3 FT) 07:57 PM (2.3 FT)
TROPICAL WEATHER OUTLOOK: Tropical cyclone activity is not expected during the next 7 days.
FORECASTER: H.HAMILTON
SNIDER PIERRE APPOINTED ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER OF REVENUE - AUDIT
The Office of the Deputy Governor announced the appointment of Mr. Snider Pierre as Assistant Commissioner of Revenue - Audit, within the Ministry of Finance, Trade and Investment.
Mr. Pierre holds an Associate’s Degree in Business Studies from the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Mathematics with Honours from the University of Glasgow. He will commence his ACCA Accreditation in mid-2026, further strengthening his professional qualifications in the field of accounting and finance.
Mr. Pierre brings valuable experience to his new role, having served within the Inland Revenue Department since 2021. He began his tenure as a Tax Officer before being promoted to Senior Tax Officer, where he contributed to the strengthening of tax compliance, audit efficiency and public revenue administration. His career also includes earlier roles in both the public and private sectors, such as Accounts Payable Officer and Banking Officer with the Interisland Aviation Services Group of Companies and as a Summer Intern at the Inland Revenue Department.
Reflecting on his appointment, Mr. Pierre stated, “I am deeply honored to serve the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands as the Assistant Commissioner of Revenue - Audit in the Ministry of Finance, Trade and Investment. To serve the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands in this capacity is not just a professional milestone, it is a calling rooted in accountability, transparency and the shared goal of national progress. I take on this role with humility, a clear sense of purpose and a steadfast commitment to the principles of good governance, fiscal integrity and public trust. This office plays a critical role in ensuring that the collection and management of public revenue is conducted with integrity and efficiency, in alignment with our national priorities and in the best interests of the people of these islands.
As Nelson Mandela once said, ‘What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.’
Guided by this principle, I am committed to working collaboratively with key stakeholders to strengthen our audit systems, reinforce fiscal responsibility, and contribute to a sustainable financial future for the Turks and Caicos Islands. I look forward to leading with professionalism, fostering public confidence through transparency and making a meaningful, lasting contribution to our community and our country.”
Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, H.E. Anya Williams, said, “It gives me great pleasure to congratulate Mr. Pierre on his new appointment as Assistant Commissioner of Revenue - Audit. Mr. Pierre’s professional growth, dedication and experience in revenue administration stand as a testament to his commitment to excellence in public service. His leadership will play a pivotal role in advancing the Ministry’s mission of ensuring accountability, transparency and the efficient management of public resources. We wish him continued success as he takes on this important role.
SCHOOLS PREPARE for 4TH ANNUAL MATHEMATICS JEOPARDY-STYLE COMPETITION
The Department of Education is pleased to announce the hosting of the 4th Annual Mathematics Jeopardy-Style Competition, scheduled for November 13th and 14th, 2025, at the Salvation Army Centre, beginning at 10:00 a.m. on both days. The competition will feature primary school students on November 13th, followed by secondary school students on November 14th.
This annual event aims to promote mathematical awareness and foster a deeper appreciation for the subject among students across the nation’s schools. Over the years, the Mathematics Jeopardy-Style Competition has become a highly anticipated fixture on the academic calendar, known for its vibrant atmosphere and stimulating intellectual challenge.
The Jeopardy-style format encourages participants to demonstrate their mathematical aptitude while fostering teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in an engaging and competitive environment. Students will tackle questions across a range of topics, including Algebra, Geometry, Measurement, and Trigonometry.
In previous years, the competition has showcased exceptional talent and enthusiasm from our young mathematicians. Last year, in the Primary Division, Adelaide Oemler Primary School earned 3rd place, Best Institute secured 2nd place, and the International School of the Turks and Caicos triumphed once again, taking 1st place for the second consecutive year. In the Secondary Division, the contest for top honors was equally fierce. A. Louise Garland Thomas High School placed 3rd,Raymond Gardiner High School achieved 2nd place, and Clement Howell High School claimed 1st place, also marking their second consecutive championship victory.
This year’s event promises to continue that tradition of excellence and spirited competition. The proceedings will be broadcast live on Radio Turks and Caicos and streamed via the Premier’s Facebook page.
The Department of Education encourages the public to attend and show their support in person, your presence and encouragement remain invaluable to our students as they continue to excel in the pursuit of knowledge.