Trump administration seeks to dissolve remaining order blocking National Guard deployment to Portland
The Trump administration has filed a motion seeking to dissolve the remaining order preventing them from deploying National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon.
The filing on Monday came after the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals overturned, earlier that day, another temporary restraining order that prevented the Trump administration from deploying the Oregon National Guard to Portland. A panel of judges found that the Trump administration was likely to succeed on the merits of its challenge to the TRO.
A broader order that prohibits any state's National Guard from deploying into Portland remains in effect.
Source- ABC
D'Angelo's discography sees increase in streams following his death
D'Angelo fans have been running up his streams as they listen to his discography in the wake of his death. Billboard reports his catalog has seen a 796% increase in one week, going from 1.8 million official on-demand U.S. streams from Oct. 3 to Oct. 9 to 16.1 million streams from Oct. 10 to Oct. 16.
D'Angelo's songs have also individually seen a rise in streams and have even made it onto the Hot 100. “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” got 2.5 million streams in the week starting Oct. 10 and currently sits at #25 on the list.
"Lady" garnered 2.2 million streams and secured the #10 spot, while "Brown Sugar" got 1.9 million streams and placed at #27.
The three tracks are also on the Hot R&B Songs chart, with "Untitled" at #7, "Lady" at #8 and "Brown Sugar" at #10. They join Black Messiah songs "Really Love" at #14 and "Sugah Daddy" at #22 on the list, giving D'Angelo five entries on the Hot R&B Songs.
The late singer's music has additionally sold 9,000 digital track downloads; his bestselling song, “Untitled," currently tops the R&B Digital Song Sales chart after it sold 2,000 copies.
Source-ABC
Promotion Examinations Successfully Conclude
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) is pleased to announce the successful completion of the promotion examinations to the ranks of Sergeant and Inspector.
This year, over one hundred (100) officers participated in the examinations, which were
administered and supervised by officials from the University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill Campus, Barbados. The UWI team comprised Professor Corin Bailey, Ms. Kim Sealey, and Mrs. Melanie Callender-Forde.
The examinations were conducted at the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College in Providenciales and the H.J. Robinson High School in Grand Turk. Officers from across the Force sat for both the Sergeant and Inspector-level examinations.
Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey met with the UWI officials today and was briefed on the overall administration of the process. He commended the smooth execution of the examinations and reaffirmed his confidence in the transparent and accountable process undertaken.
Commissioner Bailey also expressed his gratitude to the UWI for their partnership and professionalism in administering the examinations, noting that their involvement reinforces the integrity and credibility of the promotion process.
Commissioner Bailey stated, “I am aware that change will have its resistance, however, if we are
to achieve progress, we must embrace change. I have every confidence in the fairness and integrity of the process, and I look forward to the results as we continue to strengthen the leadership within the Force. The Executive extends best wishes to all officers who participated and remains committed to ensuring merit-based advancement and professional development across all ranks.”
The next phase of the promotional process — the interview stage — will be announced once the examination scripts have been marked and finalized.
INTERNATIONAL CHILD SAFEGUARDING WEEK OBSERVED IN THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS
The Turks and Caicos Islands proudly joins the global community in observing International Child Safeguarding Week under the theme “Prevention: Act Before Abuse.” This observance serves as an important reminder that the protection of children, adolescents, adults at risk, and older persons is a year-round, shared national responsibility, one that extends beyond the walls of government and into every home, school, church, business, and community group across our islands. The Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) continues to advance public awareness and strengthen multi-agency coordination in safeguarding, with the goal of enhancing accountability and fostering action across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Speaking on the occasion, Director of Family and Children Services, Ms. Ashley Adams emphasized that safeguarding is not limited to professionals within the social or human services sectors but is a collective duty grounded in awareness, vigilance, and moral courage.
“Safeguarding is everyone’s business. From the classroom and the clinic to our churches and community groups, each of us has a role to play in ensuring that those who are most vulnerable are protected. When we see something concerning, we must speak up. Silence protects abusers—reporting protects people. The system begins with you.”
Throughout the week, the DFCS will continue its outreach and education efforts, focusing on helping members of the public recognize the signs of abuse, neglect, and exploitation, and understand how to report concerns safely and confidentially. The Department is also urging organizations and institutions that work with children and vulnerable persons to use this week as an opportunity to review and strengthen their internal safeguarding policies and procedures in preparation for the upcoming national safeguarding licensing requirements.
Employers, educators, and community leaders are reminded of their obligation to ensure that all staff and volunteers are properly vetted, trained, and aware of their duty to protect and report concerns involving any child under their care or within their facilities. Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant. Early reporting can prevent harm and save lives. Reports of suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation should be made directly to the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) or, in emergencies, by calling 911. The public is further reminded that sharing sensitive safeguarding information on social media can compromise investigations and cause additional harm. All concerns should be reported directly to the appropriate authorities for professional follow-up.
Delivering a charge to the public, the Honourable Shaun Malcolm, Minister of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs and Transportation, underscored the importance of vigilance and compassion in building a safer, more caring society, “This week is more than awareness, it is a call to action. Safeguarding begins with you. Whether you are a parent, a teacher, a neighbour, or a friend, your voice matters. If you see harm, say something. When you say something, we can safeguard together.”
As the Turks and Caicos Islands observes International Child Safeguarding Week, the Department of Family and Children Services encourages all residents to reaffirm their commitment to creating safe environments where every child, family, and vulnerable adult can thrive, free from fear, harm, and exploitation.
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS JOIN THE GLOBAL OBSERVANCE OF WORLD FOOD DAY 2025
The Turks and Caicos Islands proudly join the global community in observing World Food Day 2025, as well as the 80th anniversary of the establishment of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), founded in 1945.
This year, World Food Day is celebrated under the inspiring theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and Better Future.”
Observed annually on 16 October, World Food Day serves as a call to action to end world hunger, enhance food security, and improve global nutrition. According to the FAO, approximately 673 million people worldwide continue to live with hunger. Meeting the needs of a growing global population will require collaboration across borders, sectors, and generations.
As part of its ongoing mandate to improve food security in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Department of Agriculture has organised a series of activities in recognition of this year’s observance.
On Saturday, 11 October 2025, the Department distributed 500 seedlings and facilitated an exchange among backyard farmers who shared plants and planning materials in Providenciales.
October 16, 2025, saw a field day was hosted at the Government Kew Farm, North Caicos, where farmers, students, and members of the public participated in demonstrations on seed sowing techniques based on seed size. Attendees also received seedlings to start or expand their own backyard gardens—an initiative aimed at strengthening local food production and resilience.
Later this month, residents of Grand Turk will receive seeds and potting mixtures to begin their own backyard gardens as part of the Department’s continuing outreach efforts.
As we celebrate this important milestone, the Department of Agriculture encourages every resident to play a part in securing the nation’s food future by establishing backyard gardens, importing pest, and disease-free agricultural products and live animals (pets and livestock), and participating in agricultural training workshops. Together, we can build a more sustainable and food-secure Turks and Caicos Islands.
TCICC Achieves Historic 32% Enrolment Growth: A Testament to Transformation, Trust, and National Pride
The Turks and Caicos Islands Community College (TCICC) proudly announces a historic 32% increase in student enrolment compared to the 2024 academic year, marking the largest enrolment growth in the institution’s three-decade history. This milestone underscores TCICC’s ongoing transformation under visionary leadership and reflects renewed national confidence in the College as the premier provider of accessible, world-class tertiary education.
From 2022 to 2025, TCICC’s student population expanded from 350 to 619, representing an impressive 76.9% overall increase within just four years.
This remarkable growth highlights TCICC’s evolution into a modern, student-centred institution dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and national development. Enrolment gains were observed across multiple programmes.
A key milestone this semester is the transition of the Nursing Programme to the Providenciales Campus, a strategic move designed to enhance access to training in one of the nation’s most critical fields. This initiative underscores TCICC’s enduring commitment to equity, accessibility, and opportunity for all Turks and Caicos Islanders.
Dr. Candice Williams, President and CEO, expressed immense pride and gratitude for the College’s continued progress:
“This record-breaking increase in enrolment stands as a powerful affirmation of TCICC’s transformation and the unwavering belief of our people in the value of higher education and training at home. It reflects the strength of our renewed vision, the impact of our dynamic marketing efforts, and, most importantly, the confidence and pride of a nation that continues to choose TCICC as the driving force of national development.”
The TCICC Board of Governors continues to play a vital role in guiding the institution’s strategic direction and growth.
Mrs. Sheba Wilson, Chairman of the Board, stated:
“The Board of Governors commends the leadership and staff of TCICC for their continued dedication to expanding access to quality tertiary education. These growing numbers speak volumes about the College’s relevance and its steadfast commitment to producing skilled, competent, and visionary graduates who will contribute meaningfully to the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Board remains deeply committed to supporting the College’s leadership as they pursue the strategic goals and objectives that will further strengthen TCICC’s role in national development.”
The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture has been instrumental in supporting TCICC’s mission through the national #IAMTCICC campaign, which promotes pride and participation in local higher education.
Hon Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, congratulated the TCICC community, stating:
“This achievement reflects the success of our collective efforts to make higher education more inclusive and impactful for all Turks and Caicos Islanders. TCICC continues to play a pivotal role in advancing the national agenda for education and human capital development, and the Ministry remains proud to support its ongoing growth.”
As TCICC continues to expand its programmes and reach, prospective students are encouraged to take the next step in their academic journey. Spring 2026 enrolment is now open and will close on 1 December 2025.
The College offers Pre-College, Associate, and Bachelor’s Degree programmes across seven faculties,alongside Professional Short Courses and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) opportunities at campuses in Grand Turk, Providenciales, and South Caicos.
TCI Border Force Elevates Leadership Excellence Through Emotional Intelligence Training
The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force continues to advance its leadership capacity and organisational resilience with the successful completion of a three-day Emotional Intelligence Training Programme for its management staff. The training, facilitated by Mr. Lorenzo Casapia of the International Business and Economic Forum (IBE Forum), was held under the theme “Leadership and Emotional Intelligence: Training for Government Leaders.”
The training unfolded across three interactive sessions:
The training comprised three interactive sessions focused on self-awareness and emotional regulation, empathy and coaching for high-performing teams, and relationship-building through effective communication, feedback, and conflict resolution, equipping officers with neuroscience-based strategies and leadership tools to strengthen performance and team dynamics.
Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for Immigration and Border Services, Hon. Jamell Robinson, commended the initiative, emphasising the importance of emotionally intelligent leadership:
“The completion of this Emotional Intelligence programme reflects our commitment to developing leaders who are not only skilled but emotionally attuned to the needs of their teams and the communities they serve. Emotional intelligence is a strategic asset one that empowers our officers to lead with empathy, manage conflict constructively, and inspire excellence.”
Director General Emilio Seymour highlighted the significance of this milestone in the Force’s leadership journey: “This training marks an important step in our growth as an organisation. Emotional intelligence is central to effective leadership, particularly in high-pressure environments like border security. Our team now has enhanced tools to lead with clarity, compassion, and confidence.”
The TCI Border Force remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the security and prosperity of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Through ongoing investment in leadership development, the Force continues to build a resilient, emotionally intelligent team, one equipped to meet the evolving demands of border operations and public service.
DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIOURAL HEALTH SERVICES CELEBRATES WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY 2025
The Department of Behavioural Health Services (DBHS) hosted its World Mental Health Day 2025 Conference on October 10, bringing together government, healthcare, civil society, and community members under the theme “The Power of Community: Connecting for Mental Health.” The event showcased a full day of dialogue, inspiration, and reflection, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in promoting mental well-being across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The conference opened with remarks from Dr. Alicia Malcolm, Director of DBHS, who shared key trends in mental health. She noted that while mental health often receives limited attention globally, progress is happening locally. Over the past year, DBHS conducted over 4,000 counselling sessions, responded to more than 250 crisis calls, delivered over 50 educational sessions, and spent 220 hours on community outreach. Dr. Malcolm emphasized that mental health support is like a woven fabric, strengthened through collaboration, and noted the need to have mental health resources expand to meet rising demands.
Deputy Governor Her Excellency Anya Williams encouraged attendees to remember that mental health is part of overall wealth. She highlighted stigma in its many forms and emphasized that it is okay to say you are not okay. She also encouraged everyone to take advantage of opportunities and resources to care of themselves while also checking in on friends and loved ones.
Minister of Health and Human Services Hon. Kyle R. Knowles reinforced the government’s commitment to mental health, stating, “Our responsibility is to ensure that support and resources for mental health are not just promises but tangible realities that reach every community member in need.” His remarks underscored leadership, action, and partnership as essential to fostering a resilient society.
The keynote address by Ms. Cynthia Joseph, Registered Nurse and HR Manager at Gilley’s Enterprises, titled “Leadership Promises vs. Lived Reality: Who Really Pays the Cost?”, resonated deeply with attendees. Many participants commented on how her timely and empowering message would guide them in their leadership roles. The conference also featured a moving spoken word performance by Ms. Nideka Misick, which brought personal experiences to life and reinforced the human side of mental health.
Healthcare presentations by Dr. Dawn Perry-Ewing, Chief of Medical Services at Turks & Caicos Hospital, Dr. Kristi-Ann Sharp, Physician at Ministry of Health’s Primary Health Care, and Dr. Leston Payne, General Practitioner and Infectious Disease Specialist at Family Care Medical Services, highlighted the importance of a bio-psychosocial approach, shifting focus from purely physical interventions and demonstrating progress toward integrated, holistic care.
The panel discussion, “Whose Job Is It Anyway? Mental Health Across the System,” moderated by Mrs. Tonya Greaves, Psychologist at DBHS, was engaging and energetic. Panellists Mr. Teran Spence, Mrs. Stacey Jogie, Dr. Jadetra Ingraham, and Mrs. Laura Dowrich shared insights on real-world challenges and cross-sector collaboration.
Ms. Tiara McTaire, Mental Health Education Specialist and Chairperson of the DBHS Planning Committee, led an interactive session connecting participants over shared experiences. Using a card activity, attendees reflected on common mental health challenges, sparking lively conversation, laughter, and reflection. The session, alongside the social media initiative “flooding the feed” with positive mental health messages, captured the theme of connecting for mental health in TCI.
Dr. Coryse Penco closed the conference with “Re-Sensitizing Our Islands: Turning Shared Struggles into Shared Strength,” tying together the day’s discussions and leaving participants inspired to continue fostering resilience and community connections.
World Mental Health Day 2025 is a reminder that mental health is a shared responsibility. Through dialogue, creative expression, and collaboration, the conference strengthened connections between government, health providers, civil society, and the community.
The Ministry of Health and Human Services and DBHS reaffirm their commitment to building a mentally healthy community where residents, families, and organizations can thrive. Mental health is everyone’s responsibility, and events like these showcase the power of connection in creating a stronger, more resilient Turks and Caicos Islands.
A Year of Action and Progress: DBHS Initiatives 2025
Over the past year, DBHS strengthened mental health awareness, education, and community support across all islands, reflecting a commitment to practical education, outreach, and meaningful community connection. Key initiatives included:
The Bridge Series – Learning and discussion sessions for professionals and community members:
Supporting Children’s Mental Health & Wellbeing (2 sessions)
Brief Interventions: Guiding Change
Differentiating Normal Grief from Pathology
Building Inner Resilience
Guidance Counsellor Support Session
Prison-Based Programs – Structured programs focused on rehabilitation, resilience, and personal growth:
Life After Life: Reclaiming Purpose
Pathways to Accountability: A Guide for Positive Change
I Can Recover
Anger Management Program
Community Engagement and Youth Outreach – Reaching communities across all islands:
Morning Pause and Panel Discussions
Coffee and Conversations
International Day Against Drugs: Youth Expo
Participation in Youth Skills Fair and Career Days
Pockets of Hope: Suicide Prevention Awareness Activity
Shift Your Mind: Reframing Mental Health in the TCI (anti-stigma program launch)
Enhancing Accessibility: A booking link for individual requests and referrals improved timely access to programs and services across the islands.
GOVERNOR APPOINTS NEW MEMBERS TO THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, today announced the appointment of Mr. Marc Rawlins as the new Chair of the Human Rights Commission, and the appointment of Dr. François Bourne, Ms. Llana Ewing and Rev. Frednor Toussaint as members of the Commission, marking an important step in strengthening the protection and promotion of human rights across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The appointments are made by the Governor, acting after consultation with the Hon. Premier and the Hon. Leader of the Opposition, in accordance with Section 101(1) of the Constitution of the Turks and Caicos Islands and Section 3(2) of the Human Rights Commission Ordinance.
New Chair of the Human Rights Commission
Mr. Marc Rawlins, who currently serves as Deputy Chair of the Human Rights Commission, brings over10 years of experience in law, corporate governance and regulatory compliance. He has previously served as Legal Adviser and Secretary to the Board of Commissioners of the Financial Services Commission and is a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist and Chartered Director. His appointment as Chair provides both continuity of leadership and a strong legal foundation for the Commission’s work
New Members of the Human Rights Commission
Dr. François Bourne is a General Physician with extensive experience in community health and national service. He has served as a member of both the National Health Insurance Board and the National Insurance Board and continues to make significant contributions to primary care in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Ms. Llana Ewing brings a strong background in operations, human resources and organisational development within the hospitality and service sectors, having served as Director of Quality Assurance and Training at Grace Bay Resorts and currently as Director of Rooms at Point Grace Resort.
Rev. Frednor Toussaint, Superintendent of the South Turks and Caicos Islands Circuit of the Methodist Church, has over 25 years of ministry and community service, working to strengthen faith-based engagement and social inclusion across the Islands.
Her Excellency the Governor welcomed the appointments, stating:
“I congratulate Mr Marc Rawlins on his appointment as Chair of the Human Rights Commission. Having served with distinction as Deputy Chair, he brings not only a depth of experience, but a steadfast commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights across our Islands. I am confident that under his leadership, the Commission will continue to plays a vital role in ensuring that the rights and freedoms of all who call the Turks and Caicos Islands home are respected and protected.
I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to outgoing Chair Ms Roxanne Wake-Forbes for her leadership and unwavering dedication as Chair of the Human Rights Commission. Under her stewardship, the Commission has deepened its impact and strengthened the foundations of human rights protections across our Islands.
Finally, I wish to express my appreciation to Ms Melanie Smith, whose term also concludes. Her contributions have enriched the Commission’s work and helped shape policies that make a real difference in people’s lives.”
“Together, these individuals exemplify the values we hold dear - commitment, courage and compassion in service to the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
Mr. Marc Rawlins, the incoming Chair of the Human Rights Commission, expressed his appreciation on behalf of the new members:
“It is an honour to be entrusted with this responsibility to serve the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Human rights form the cornerstone of any democratic society and we are committed to ensuring that the Commission continues to promote and protect these rights with transparency and fairness. We look forward to engaging with communities across the Islands to raise awareness and strengthen confidence in the human rights framework”.
Region observing Caribbean Statistics Day
Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretary general, Dr. Carla Barnett Wednesday underscored the importance of statistics to regional development saying that the 15-member grouping is at the midpoint of implementing the 12-year Regional Strategy for the Development of Statistics.
In a message marking Caribbean Statistics Day 2025, Barnett said that the occasion coincides with the culmination of the 2024-2025 Year of Statistics in CARICOM, which marked the 50th anniversary of the Standing Committee of Caribbean Statisticians.
Caribbean Statistics Day is being observed under theme “Improving Lives through Statistics: Strengthening and Innovating Together” and the CARICOM Secretary General said that during the year, the region placed renewed emphasis on Standards and Harmonization and the integration of statistical systems.
She said key regional instruments have been successfully piloted and are now being institutionalized, including the CARICOM Quality Assurance Framework, CARICOM Code of Good Statistical Practices, and the Generic Statistical Business Process Model to guide the end-to-end lifecycle of all statistical activities.
”CARICOM is at the midpoint of implementing the 12-year Regional Strategy for the Development of Statistics, which provides a clear roadmap with mechanisms to strengthen statistical systems, ensuring that accurate and timely data inform decision-making.
”CARICOM governments are reviewing the necessary legal and institutional frameworks, and seeking to provide the financial, technical and human resources to support the work of National Statistical Offices, including taking note of the increasing role for digital transformation and modernised statistical operation,” Barnett said.
But she acknowledged that “the journey ahead is as critical as the progress behind us” and in the community spirit which exemplifies CARICOM, “a harmonized regional approach to statistics development will continue to be essential as we strive to fill data gaps and improve statistical standards across the region.
”On Caribbean Statistics Day, we therefore recommit to strengthening national and regional statistical processes to ensure timely and accurate data for decision-making, in keeping with our theme this year,” she added.
Source-CMC