Central bank predicts continued economic growth for The Bahamas
Governor of the Central Bank of the Bahamas (CBB), John Rolle, says the local economy is projected to experience continued growth in 2023, although more moderated.
“By 2024, activity could settle closer in line with the economy’s medium-term growth potential. This evolution is expected to sustain continued high levels of banking liquidity, and comfortably adequate external reserves,” Rolle said as the CBB released the Monthly Economic and Financial Developments for September.
He told reporters that from a policy perspective, it continues to leave the Central Bank open to accommodating more growth in lending to the private sector and the domestic markets in a sustainable state to finance an expanded share of the fiscal deficit in local currency.
“ In any event, the outlook is also expected to encompass continued fiscal consolidation that should reduce the government’s total borrowing requirements,” Rolle said, adding “Nevertheless, there are downside risks that justify caution. Imported inflation could impede the economy’s ability to retain foreign exchange, while escalated energy costs could make the tourism product more expensive and less attractive.
He said in addition, the rising interest rates, which push back against inflation, could impose higher costs on the government’s foreign currency debt and could slow the pace of foreign investments that rely on debt financing.
“Weaved throughout these trends are geopolitical tensions from the war in Ukraine, and now the Middle East. In these respects, the Central Bank’s monetary policy posture is cautiously balanced and measured,” he added.
Rolle said that the available data through the third quarter of 2023 continue to show a healthy recovery and transition of the Bahamian economy, away from setbacks of the coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic.
He said tourism underpins the recovery, with aggressive marketing efforts taking advantage of the relaxed global travel conditions.
“Indications are that support from foreign direct investments is also being maintained at healthy levels. As a result, the outlook for employment remains positive. Meanwhile, the inflation expectations for The Bahamas have moderated, even though transitional firming remained evident due to the delayed pass-through from higher electricity costs.”.
Rolle said in the financial sector, trends are characterized by steadily reducing credit delinquency rates, while the outlook for lending to the private sector is gradually improving. “Nevertheless, there is a more discernible abatement in the speed of economic growth. With private sector demand more caught up to the rest of the economy and the government more reliant on local currency borrowing, some consequent net reduction in the Central Bank’s foreign reserves continues to be expected over the remainder of this year.”
The Central Bank Governor said the near-term risks to the economy remain concentrated around imported inflation, escalating geopolitical tensions, and the multiple adverse impacts that rising international interest rates could have on the financing costs for the public and private sectors.
He said that based on trends in tourism, and the observed level of foreign currency inflows through the private sector, the economy is still expected to grow at an above-average pace in 2023, in the three to four percent range.
“This compares to the majority of the COVID-19 rebound that grew the economy by about 14. per cent in 2022. In the first half of 2023, there continued to be some residual recovery in stopover tourism, compared to the pre-pandemic highs.
“ Alongside increased average prices for hotel rooms and vacation rentals, this helped to expand the sector’s total economic contribution. However, over the first eight months of the year, neither air nor sea arrivals numbers experienced significant, additional seasonal headcount growth compared to the pre-pandemic estimates.”
Rolle said that compared to seasonal performance in the same months of the preCOVID-19 period, sea arrivals leveled off favourably about 42 percent above the pre-pan
He said the varied, anticipated boost in hotel and cruise capacity in 2024, could create the headroom to improve these seasonal indicators.
Regarding the foreign exchange situation, Rolle said that the foreign exchange markets provide a good indicator of the collective impacts of tourism, investments, and other inflow activities on the economy.
“They are also a reliable early gauge of the annual variations in the level of activity in most parts of the economy. In this regard, during the first nine months of 2023, total foreign inflows through the banking sector rose just 2.5 percent compared to 2022. The recovery-driven improvement in receipts in the same period in 2022 was 40 percent..
“In the meantime, the demand for foreign exchange increased by 7.1 percent in 2023, compared to approximately 30.1 percent in 2022. While these trends underscore healthy conditions overall, the relatively stronger growth in foreign exchange sales led to a smaller net retention, and therefore decreased net sale of foreign exchange from commercial banks to the Central Bank.”
Role said that given net foreign exchange trends, the external reserves of the Central Bank remained on course to contract this year.
In particular, the Central Bank’s net foreign exchange purchase from commercial banks decreased by almost one-third from January through September 2023. Moreover, there was an approximate US$700 million reversal in transactions with the government sector, from a net purchase or boost to reserves over the same months in 2022, to a net sale of foreign exchange in the first three quarters of the current year.
“ As a result, the external reserves fell incrementally over the nine months to September 2023, compared a net accumulation of nearly US$750 million in the same period last year. As regards the leading influence of the government’s debt management operations, some of the draw down in reserves already experienced could be reversed over the remainder of the year, given some planned foreign currency borrowing, but the cumulative impact in 2023 is still expected to be a reduction.”
Rolle said as of the end of October, the external reserve balances were at US$2.5 billion, about five percent below the closing levels for 2022.
He said these balances continue to be healthy and more than adequate to support the value of the Bahamian dollar fixed exchange rate. The outlook for the reserves also continues to be supportive of increased expansion in private sector credit and an increased share of financing of the fiscal deficit in local currency.
The Central Bank Governor said in the banking sector, there are steadily improving indicators of credit quality, with the outlook for lending shifting more positively.
As of September, just 6.8 percent of estimated private sector loan balances had fallen behind in repayments by 90 days or more, compared to 8.1 percent of all credit balances at the same point in 2022, and an average setback during the height of the pandemic of to almost 10 percent of loan balances, Rolle said.
“In addition, a gradual, though still very mild pattern of growth, was established in total lending to the private sector over the first 9 months of 2023. It included a bottoming out of multiple years of reduction in consumer lending and additional gains in business loans. However, the residential mortgage segment was further contracted overall.”
Rolle said that in line with these trends, based on the latest lending conditions survey for the first half of 2023, commercial banks also reported a further uptick in applications for credit, concentrated in consumer and business loans.
Banks also approved an increased volume of applications for credit, he added.
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, YOUTH, SPORTS, & SOCIAL SERVICES REPORTS ON AN INCIDENT AT THE IANTHE PRATT PRIMARY SCHOOL INVOLVING A STUDENT
It is with great sadness and concern that we address an incident that recently occurred at the Ianthe Pratt Primary School in Providenciales. We sincerely regret to inform the community that an unfortunate incident took place on October 31st, 2023, involving a student from our primary school.
According to the preliminary investigation, it has come to our attention that a student returned to report to School Administrators of being robbed at gunpoint while standing at the bus stop outside of the school compound awaiting transport to travel home.
Immediately following this report, School Administrators contacted the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force for assistance. An investigation has been launched in response to this report.
This incident has deeply impacted our students, their families, and the entire school community. The Ministry has activated its Student Support Services and Child Safeguarding policies and protocols, as our primary and immediate focus is to provide support and care to those affected. We have arranged counselling services and support systems for students, parents, and staff members who may require assistance during this difficult time. Our dedicated team of professionals will be available to address any concerns or provide guidance as needed.
The Ministry is working collaboratively with the Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Force to ensure heightened security and to facilitate a thorough investigation.
We urge all community members to remain calm and supportive during this challenging time. We must come together as a community to address this incident responsibly and emphasize the importance of empathy, understanding, and respect for one another.
We will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses and continue to work diligently to ensure the safety and security of our students. Our thoughts are with the affected student, their family, and the entire school community. We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of the community as a whole as we navigate through this unfortunate situation.
Government’s Appointed Member Hon. Jameka L Williams speech on October 26,2023
Mr. Speaker, there is a growing trend in the TCI lately that I’d like to highlight. Mr. Speaker, it is unfortunate that, in these islands, we have seen a spike in the number of cases of our tourists bringing firearms and ammunition into the TCI. Perhaps the Tourism Ministry in collaboration with the RTCIPF and the Hotel Association should launch a campaign to educate our tourists and discourage these actions.
Mr. Speaker, a few months ago in this house we passed laws to modernize our police force and increase fines and offences as it relates to gun crime. Mr. Speaker, there is no secret that we have an issue with gun-related crimes, and I want to reassure this House that the police department that will always have my support when apprehending those persons who make the decision to carry or use an illegal firearm to cause harm. Last I checked we do not manufacture or distribute firearms in this country. If you are found with an illegal firearm you should be prosecuted.
But, Mr. Speaker, the public has a concern and if they are concerned so am I. Mr. Speaker, CLASSICISM is alive and well in these islands. I can go on and on of many examples of it but I’ll stick to the issue of firearm and ammunition. Mr. Speaker, the same tourists that I mentioned who were either found with a firearm or ammunition, in their case, it appears as if our justice system handles their cases swiftly and they are given a fine as their penalty although recently a tourist was sentenced to 8 months imprisonment.
But Mr. Speaker, when it is our Turks and Caicos Islands people who find themselves in similar circumstances our justice system seems to not move so swiftly, and their usual punishment is the mandatory minimum sentence.
Mr. Speaker, there must be equality and balance in the penalties and punishments given to firearm offenders regardless of their nationality, race, color or ethnicity.
Mr. Speaker, there are many firearm-related prosecutions where our people meet the same criteria as visitors, that is (they are law-abiding citizens, hardworking, and have a clean police record and so on). However, Mr. Speakers that STILL seems to not satisfy our courts as sufficient enough for the court to make a finding of EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES, thereby giving those persons a lower sentence than the mandatory
Simply put, Mr. Speaker, when it comes to our Turks and Caicos Islanders the ruling handed down is heavy handed and it’s usually substantial jail time.
Mr. Speaker, I am appealing to us in the House and our justice system to review this trend, or perhaps this House may need to legislate situations that amount to EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES so that we can help our judiciary in bringing some balance as it relates to the adequate punishment.
Finally, Mr. Speaker, I do believe that the following situations should amount to exceptional circumstances:
(a) No previous convictions.
(b) Good character as evidenced by references from members of the community.
(c) Early guilty plea
(d) Substantial cooperation with the Police.
Mr. Speaker, thank you for your time. May God continue to bless us all
and may he forever bless these beautiful by nature Turks and Caicos Islands.
CULTURE AWARDS CELEBRATE OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE LATE JAMES S. DEAN, REV. DR. SAMUEL GOLDSTON WILLIAMS, AND BARBARA ARETHA JOHNSON
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.
Unidentified Male Body Found
Detectives from the Serious Crime Unit of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force told RTC News that they are investigating a murder following the discovery of a body at the side of the road on Robinson Street, Five Cays, Providenciales, this morning (October 26th).
The unidentified male is approximately 5’ 08” ft tall, slim built, about 150 - 160 pounds, and appears between 30 – and 40 years old. The body was clad only in a white long-sleeve jersey and long khaki pants.
The male victim wore multi-colored sneakers ( purple, green, and white).
The RTCIPF seeks the public's assistance in positively identifying the male victim.
Based on preliminary information, a call was placed to the Police Control Room today at around 6:37 a.m., indicating that the lifeless body of a male was lying on the roadside.
Our news room understands that the RTCIPF officers arrived at the location and found the bleeding body with what appeared to be gunshot wounds.
An autopsy is expected to be performed today to determine the cause of death.
The public is being asked to contact 911, the closest police station, the RTCIPF Serious Crime Unit at 232-8752, or call TCI Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 and give any information on this murder or any other illegal activity anonymously.
Additionally, persons are encouraged to contact the Miami-Dade & The Florida Keys Crime Stoppers at 1-305-471-8477 and give any information anonymously.
ALIQUE HARVEY APPOINTED AS COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
The Turks and Caicos Islands Government is proud to announce the appointment of Mr. Alique Harvey, a returning student, to the post of Communications Officer within the Department of Tourism Regulations in the Ministry of Tourism, Environment, Fisheries and Marine Affairs, Culture and Heritage, Agriculture and Religious Affairs.
Mr. Harvey brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role, with a background that underlines his commitment to effective communication and strategy.
Holding a Joint Honors Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Business from the University of Derby, he has a strong foundation in the principles of communication. His pursuit of knowledge didn't stop there, as he went on to earn a Master's degree in Marketing Management, providing him with the expertise needed for strategic communication. His appointment is a significant addition to the dedicated team in the Department of Tourism Regulation as we move forward in fully establishing this new department and enhancing our communication with our tourism sector.
Mr. Harvey’s professional journey began as a Reporter at People's Television in Turks and Caicos, where he honed his skills in interviewing, writing, and content management. These experiences have shaped him into a proficient communicator with a deep understanding of the power of well-crafted messages and the art of conveying information.
His journey in the world of communication continued as a Communications Liaison Intern at the Ministry of Tourism. In this role, he was actively involved in the planning of the State of the Tourism Industry Conference and played a pivotal role in developing communication strategies and managing social platforms. His dedication to the field extended even further as he volunteered with the Marketing Team at YADA Collective in Derby, UK, focusing on SEO management and content editing.
In addition to his academic and professional accomplishments, Mr. Harvey is a multi-talented individual. His interests in photography, graphic design, and writing have enriched his skill set, allowing him to contribute content to various entities. His ability to align personal and professional passions makes him a well-rounded and dynamic communication professional.
Commenting on his new appointment, Mr. Harvey said:
"It is indeed a great honor and privilege to be appointed to this esteemed post of Communications Officer within the Department of Tourism Regulations. All thanks be to God for this incredible opportunity to serve the people of the Turks and Caicos. Special thanks to my family, friends, and colleagues who have supported me on my journey. I see this role as an opportunity to expand on the work already being done by producing a Communications strategy that will make our efforts both engaging and informative to our stakeholders."
Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, Her Excellency Anya Williams, extends her congratulatory remarks:
"I am delighted to extend my heartfelt congratulations to, returning student, Mr. Alique Harvey on his appointment as the Communications Officer within the Department of Tourism Regulations.
Alique's outstanding academic achievements and professional experience have already made a significant impact on our communication landscape. We thank him for his commitment to serving the people of the Turks and Caicos, and we eagerly anticipate his contributions in strengthening our communication efforts with the tourism sector and making our islands' future even brighter.
Welcome home and to the Public Service, Alique!"
TCI Weather
GENERAL SITUATION: A TIGHT PRESSURE GRADIENT BETWEEN A ROBUST HIGH PRESSURE CENTERED NORTH OF THE BAHAMAS AND HURRICANE TAMMY IN THE ATLANTIC WILL CONTINUE TO SUPPORT STRONG TO NEAR GALE FORCE NORTHEAST TO EASTERLY WINDS AND VERY ROUGH SEAS ACROSS THE ISLAND CHAIN TODAY.
SPECIAL WARNINGS: HAZARDOUS BOATING AND BEACHING CONDITIONS WILL CONTINUE ACROSS THE ISLAND CHAIN…THEREFORE MARINERS ARE STRONGLY URGED TO REMAIN IN PORT AND BEACHGOERS SHOULD REFRAIN FROM ENTERING THE WATERS DUE TO VERY ROUGH SEAS, ROUGH SURF AND LIFE THREATENING RIP CURRENTS…MOTORIST AND PEDESTRAINS TRAVELLING ALONG EAST COASTAL ROADS ESPECIALLY THE GLASS WINDOW BRIDGE SHOULD EXERCISE CAUTION DUE TO SEA SPRAY AND TIDAL COASTAL FLOODING.
ALL AREAS
WEATHER: A MIX OF SUN AND CLOUDS AND BREEZY TO WINDY WITH GUSTY SHOWERS THROUGHOUT THE DAY…BREEZY CONDITIONS AND QUICK PASSING SHOWERS CONTINUING INTO TONIGHT.
ADVISORY: BOATERS ARE STRONGLY URGED TO REMAIN IN PORT.
WINDS: NORTHEAST TO EAST AT 20 TO 25 KNOTS AND GUSTING TO NEAR GALE FORCE IN THE NORTHWEST BAHAMAS AND 15 TO 25 KNOTS WITH HIGHER GUSTS IN THE CENTRAL AND SOUTHEAST BAHAMAS.
SEAS: 6 TO 9 FEET BUILDING UP TO 12 FEET IN ATLANTIC WATERS IN THE NORTHWEST BAHAMAS AND 5 TO 7 FEET BUILDING UP TO 10 FEET IN THE CENTRAL AND SOUTHEAST BAHAMAS…IN NORTHEASTERLY SWELLS.
HIGH TEMPERATURE TODAY 85 °F 29 °C
LOW TEMPERATURE TONIGHT 77 °F 25 °C
SUNRISE: 7:13 AM SUNSET: 6:33 PM
MOONSET: 4:47 AM MOONRISE: 5:15 PM
HIGH TIDE: 6:12 AM LOW TIDE: 12:30 PM
HIGH TIDE: 6:33 PM LOW TIDE: 12:49 AM FRI
EXTENDED WEATHER OUTLOOK: (FOR THE NEXT TWO DAYS)…STRONG HIGH PRESSURE CENTERED NORTH OR THE AREA WILL CONTINUE TO GENERATE BREEZY TO WINDY CONDITIONS AND HAZARDOUS BEACHING AND BOATING THROUGH THE REMAINDER OF THE WEEK AND INTO THE WEEKEND…
FORECAST FOR FRIDAY
WEATHER: A MIX OF SUN AND CLOUDS AND WINDY WITH QUICK PASSING SHOWERS.
ADVISORY: MARINERS ARE STRONGLY URGED TO REMAIN IN PORT.
WINDS: NORTHEAST TO EAST AT 20 TO 25 KNOTS IN THE NW BAHAMAS AND 15 TO 25 KNOTS IN THE CNTRL AND SE BAHAMAS.
SEAS: 6 TO 9 FEET BUILDING UP TO 12 FEET IN THE NW BAHAMAS AND 5 TO 8 FEET BUILDING UP TO 10 FEET IN THE CNTRL AND SE BAHAMAS IN NE’LY SWELLS IN ATLANTIC WATERS.
FORECAST FOR SATURDAY
WEATHER: A MIX OF SUN AND CLOUDS AND WINDY WITH QUICK PASSING SHOWERS.
ADVISORY: MARINERS ARE STRONGLY URGED TO REMAIN IN PORT.
WINDS: NORTHEAST TO EAST AT 20 TO 25 KNOTS IN THE NW BAHAMAS AND 15 TO 25 KNOTS IN THE CNTRL AND SE BAHAMAS.
SEAS: 6 TO 9 FEET BUILDING UP TO 12 FEET IN THE NW BAHAMAS AND 5 TO 8 FEET BUILDING UP TO 10 FEET IN THE CNTRL AND SE BAHAMAS IN NE’LY SWELLS IN ATLANTIC WATERS.
TROPICAL WEATHER OUTLOOK: AT 6AM HURRICANE TAMMY WAS LOCATED NEAR 29.9N AND 57.8W OR ABOUT 455 MILES EAST-SOUTHEAST OF BERMUDA MOVING NORTH-NORTHEAST AT 20 MILES PER HOUR AND MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS OF 90 MILES PER HOUR...ELSEWHERE THE REST OF THE TROPICS REMAIN QUIET AND TROPICAL CYCLONE FORMATION IS NOT EXPECTED THROUGH THE NEXT 7 DAYS...
At least 16 feared dead in mass shootings in US city of Lewiston, Maine
Police in the US city of Lewiston, Maine have warned a gunman is on the loose, with reports that at least 16 people have been killed.
Residents of the city, as well as the nearby town of Lisbon, have been told to shelter in place.
Police named Robert Card, 40, as a person of interest and said he should be considered "armed and dangerous".
The White House said President Joe Biden had been briefed on the situation and would continue to receive updates.
There were also multiple but unconfirmed reports of at least 50 people injured.
Billie Jayne Cooke, who is running for the city council in Lewiston, told BBC News Channel she had been leaving an event as details of the shooting emerged.
"The entire ride home was just solid sirens, one siren after another," she said.
"Helicopters, sirens, I've never heard so much activity in my life in this city. We have police from all over the state, from out of the state, coming up.
"The whole city's on lockdown. It's horrible. You just don't think that's ever going to happen and it did."
In a statement on X, formerly Twitter, Maine State Police said: "There is an active shooter in Lewiston.
"We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked."
Lewiston Police said it had responded to two locations, a restaurant called Schemengees, and Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley.
The two sites appear to be about four miles (6.5km), or a 10-minute drive, from each other.
Speaking to reporters, Michael Sauschuck, commissioner in Maine's Department of Public Safety, said the shooting had begun at 18:56 local time (22:56 GMT) and that there had been "multiple casualties".
The Central Maine Medical Center said it was reacting to a "mass casualty, mass shooter event" and was coordinating with other hospitals in the area to treat the injured.
The Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office released two images of a suspect, saying he was at large and asking for the public's help identifying him.
They showed a bearded man in a brown sweater carrying a firearm walking into a building.
The man identified as a person of interest is a firearms instructor who was trained by the US military at a facility in the city of Saco, Maine, according to a state police bulletin seen by the Associated Press.
The bulletin also said he had spent time in a mental health centre in the summer of 2023 and had threatened to commit a shooting at the base.
Police also shared a photo of a white vehicle, saying its front bumper was believed to be painted black, and asked anybody who recognised it to contact police.
Mr Sauschuck said residents in Lisbon had been asked to shelter in place because that was where the vehicle was located.
Lewiston Public Schools Superintendent Jake Langlais said in a statement that schools in the district would be closed on Thursday.
A statement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas had been briefed and was continuing to monitor the situation.
"DHS is working closely with our federal, state and local partners to support the Lewiston community," it said.
A US Justice Department statement said that federal agencies were assisting state and local law enforcement.
The White House said President Biden had spoken individually by phone to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden.
Senator King said in a statement he was "deeply sad for the city of Lewiston and all those worried about their family, friends and neighbors".
Lewiston has a population of around 38,000 people and is the second-largest city in Maine after Portland.
Source-BBC
MULTI-AGENCY MEETING HELD TO DISCUSS LATEST INCIDENT IN VICINITY OF HOWARD HAMILTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
On Tuesday, 24th October 2023, multiple agencies consisting of the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA), Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Air Safety Support International (ASSI), airport stakeholders and senior officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police force, namely the Acting Commissioner Rodney Adams, and Assistant Commissioners of Police Kendal Grant and Darren Williams met at the Walter E. Cox Snr. Administration Building to discuss the recent shooting incident which occurred on 19th October 2023 shortly before 6 pm in the vicinity of the Howard Hamilton International Airport.
The objective of the meeting was to facilitate an open dialogue and brainstorm effective strategies and solutions to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police officials noted that the incident was not a threat against the airport, but a targeted attack on an individual. Stating that the various gangs are retaliating against one another.
Ensuring the safety of our community, employees and visitors is paramount to the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority, and with a collaborative effort from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, we are putting in measures to prevent future incidents and maintain a secure environment.
Nick Cannon and VH1 to premiere new music docuseries, Nick Cannon Presents: Future Superstars
Nick Cannon Presents: Future Superstars is a new docuseries soon to be released by Nick Cannon and VH1.
The upcoming show will follow the journey of nine emerging artists and their rise to stardom as they embark on mainstream music success. Its mission: provide a platform for the next generation of superstars.
Featured on each of the half-hour episodes are rising stars Big Boss Vette, DW Flame, Hitman Holla, JD McCrary, Jilly, Klondike Blonde, Pop Money, Symba and Trae Two Three.
"Within this docuseries, you go on a journey with each artist as they are given the superstar starter kit with everything from artist development, publicity, touring, and mentorship to succeed in the competitive music industry," Cannon said. "You get to see the raw behind-the-scenes footage of what it takes to be a star."
On the series, Cannon will interview the up-and-coming talent, providing an intimate look into his role as a guide and mentor.
The series will end with a finale that looks back at the artists' progression throughout the season.
Nick Cannon Presents: Future Superstars premieres with back-to-back episodes on VH1 on Tuesday, November 21, starting at 9 p.m. ET.
Source-ABC