Miss Jamaica Universe, Gabrielle Henry, has been released from hospital
Miss Jamaica Universe, Gabrielle Henry, has been released from hospital nearly four months after suffering serious injuries following a fall during the Miss Universe 2025 in Thailand.
Pageant organisers Mark McDermoth and Karl Williams confirmed the development in a statement to The Gleaner, noting that Henry is continuing her recovery under the care of her medical team.
“She has not yet returned to active Miss Universe Jamaica duties, therefore, no interviews nor official appearances are currently on her itinerary,” the organisers said.
Legal representatives also confirmed that Henry, an ophthalmology resident, has not yet resumed her medical duties due to the injuries sustained in the fall.
Following the November incident, the Miss Universe Organization said it covered hospital, medical and rehabilitation expenses in Thailand, as well as accommodation costs for Henry’s mother and sister who remained by her side. The organisation also funded her medically escorted return to Jamaica and committed to covering future medical expenses related to the incident.
Henry had earlier expressed gratitude after returning home in December, saying she was thankful to be surrounded by the “familiar strength of Jamaica” as she focused on healing.
Source- CMC
Dominica to implement measures to cushion impact of Middle East war on local economy
The Dominica government Wednesday said it will be taking measures to cushion the impact of the ongoing war in the Middle East acknowledging that events thousands of miles away will significantly affect the price of fuel, the cost of food, the stability of jobs, and the strength of the local economy.
“Let me be clear, Dominica is not in danger of war, but we are exposed to the economic aftershocks of this conflict that has already caused the largest supply disruption in the history of global oil markets,” Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit told a news conference.
But he said the most immediate risk facing Dominica is a sharp increase in global oil prices.
“We import all of our fuel and high oil prices, and of course it will affect electricity costs, transportation, and the price of goods and services across our economy. We face rising costs of imported food and essential supplies, as global shipping routes and supply chains experience disruption.”
Skerrit said at the same time, there may be a slowdown in global travel and investment, which could affect tourism and inflows into the local economy.
“Your government has not waited for the situation to worsen. We are actively and decisively working to protect the people of Dominica. Over the coming days and weeks, we will implement a series of targeted measures designed to cushion the impact on households and businesses.”
Skerrit said that the government will first introduce targeted relief measures to help manage the rising cost of living, saying “this will include temporary reductions on duties and taxes on essential goods, and increased support for vulnerable households through our social protection programmes”.
He said the government would also be taking steps to manage energy costs and will work closely with the Dominica Electricity Services (DOMLEC) to moderate the impact of rising fuel prices on electricity tariffs.
He told reporters that Dominica is fortunate that its geothermal energy is coming on stream “just at the opportune time” with the plant in Laudat in the Roseau Valley on the outskirts of the capital, “making good progress and …now in an advanced stage of testing.
“Both generating units have already been tested, producing power and confirming that the plant is functioning well. Over the coming days, final adjustments will be made as we continue full performance testing.
“At the same time, work on the transmission network, which will carry electricity from the plant to homes and businesses, is well advanced and nearing completion,” he said, noting that at the sub-station all major components required to receive up to 10 megawatts from the geothermal plant are currently being installed and tested.
Skerrit said that as the country prepares for the transition to the main transmission line, some elements of the wider network will be completed later this year, noting “this will not prevent the plant from beginning operations.
“Overall, we are very encouraged by the progress. This project will significantly reduce our dependence on imported fuel, lower electricity costs over time, and strengthen Dominica’s position as a leader in clean and green energy.”
Skerrit said this is one of the positive impact which geothermal energy will have, especially when petroleum prices are expected to rise, ”and of course we have no control over those prices.
“This is one of the main reasons why this government has remained committed to pursuing geothermal energy. It has taken some time, it has been costly, but in the long run, we believe that this will be down to the benefit of our country and everyone who lives in our country.
“And so we are very pleased that we have made tremendous progress on this and we look forward to the Dominican citizens benefiting from this. As I said, in a time when the volatility of oil prices, petroleum prices, is there with the Iran war and so forth, and we expect to be impacted.
“You see, for example, the price of petroleum products at the pump in the United States have gone up, literally days after the war started. For us, we have a three-week cycle, so we are certain by the next cycle you will see an increase in the petroleum prices,” Skerrit said.
He said the government will also seek to cushion the impact of the war involving the United States, Israel and Iran by protecting jobs and economic activity.
“We will engage with stakeholders in tourism, agriculture, and the private sector to ensure continuity and resilience during this period,” he said, adding that Dominica is also strengthening its fiscal management, ”carefully prioritising government spending to ensure that critical services are maintained while some discretionary expenditures are deferred”.
Skerrit said he understands the anxiety that rising prices can bring and the pressure that families may feel in the weeks ahead, “but I ask you to remain calm, to remain united and to remain confident in our ability to weather the economic fallout from the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
“Dominica has faced far greater challenges before from hurricanes to global pandemics and we have emerged stronger each time,” he added.
Source-CMC
US forces have killed four suspected “narco-terrorists” in the Caribbean
The Miami-based United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) says US forces have killed four suspected “narco-terrorists” during a targeted maritime strike in the Caribbean Sea.
According to SOUTHCOM, the operation was carried out under the direction of Commander Marine General Francis L. Donovan, with Joint Task Force Southern Spear executing what was described as a “lethal kinetic strike” against a vessel believed to be involved in drug trafficking. Intelligence reports indicated the vessel was operating along known narcotics routes. Four men were killed, and no US personnel were injured.
The latest operation brings the reported number of individuals killed in similar strikes across the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean to more than 163 since the policy was introduced under President Donald Trump in September.
However, the military campaign continues to face legal scrutiny.
In January, the American Civil Liberties Union(ACLU) filed a lawsuit on behalf of relatives of two Trinidadian men killed in an October missile strike.
The men—Chad Joseph, 26, and Rishi Samaroo, 41—were among six people who died when their vessel was struck while reportedly traveling from Venezuela to Trinidad and Tobago.
The lawsuit, brought by family members including Joseph’s mother and Samaroo’s sister, alleges wrongful death and extrajudicial killing. It argues that the US government violated international law by using lethal force against civilians outside of an active war zone.
The case has been filed under the Death on the High Seas Act and the Alien Tort Statute.
Attorneys from the ACLU, the Center for Constitutional Rights, and legal scholars contend the strikes are unlawful, stating that the United States is not engaged in a recognized armed conflict that would justify such actions.
They also argue that even in wartime, international law restricts the use of force against civilian targets.
Family members of the victims maintain that their relatives were not involved in criminal activity and should have been arrested and tried if suspected of wrongdoing.
The lawsuit seeks accountability and answers, as critics warn the operations risk undermining international legal norms and the rule of law.
The US government has not publicly commented on the specific allegations raised in the lawsuit but has maintained that its operations target transnational criminal networks involved in narcotics trafficking.
Source-CMC
TCI FSC EMBRACES AI AND PEOPLE-FIRST HR AT TRANSFORM 2026
Human Resources professionals from the Turks and Caicos Islands Financial Services Commission (FSC) attended Transform 2026, the premier annual conference for people professionals and WorkTech innovators. Held at Wynn Las Vegas, Nevada (23–25 March) under the theme “Lead the Transformation in the Age of AI,” the event brought together global HR and business leaders to examine how artificial intelligence is reshaping people strategy and future-ready organisational design.
Transform 2026 convened visionary speakers and practitioners to explore how new intelligence can be harnessed to enhance productivity, creativity, and trust within people-centred organisations. Session topics included the AI revolution, talent strategy, workplace health and well-being, leadership, and practical frameworks for implementing AI-enabled HR solutions.
Representing the FSC were Office Manager Flore Mullings and HR Officer Candre Skippings. They joined a strong contingent of Turks and Caicos Islands HR and administrative professionals from Experience Turks and Caicos, the Ports Authority, KB Homes, Turks and Caicos Collection, The Ritz-Carlton Resort, and Tiersa Hall of Impactful Imprints. The FSC’s attendance underscores its commitment to professional development, cross-sector collaboration, and the adoption of innovative practices to strengthen local institutions and communities.
“Investing in learning opportunities such as Transform 2026 ensures our team returns equipped with practical insights and global perspectives that will benefit the FSC and the wider Turks and Caicos workforce,” said Kenisha Bacchus, Managing Director (Ag). “Our presence at this forum reflects our continued dedication to excellence, innovation, and collaboration as we adapt responsibly to technological change.”
The Commission looks forward to integrating the knowledge and best practice gained at Transform 2026 into its operations and sharing these learnings across the public and private sectors to support sustainable growth.
THREE DAYS FORECAST FROM WEDNESDAY MARCH 25TH 2026
GENERAL SITUATION: A weak trough over the area may trigger a few passing showers across the Turks and Caicos Islands, with brief interruptions to otherwise fair conditions.SPECIAL WARNINGS: There are no public warnings in effect at this time.
AREA: ALL AREAS
WEATHER: Partly sunny with isolated showers possible in the afternoon. Mostly fair tonight.
ADVISORY:
WINDS: Northeast to east at 10 to 15 knots
SEAS: Smooth to slight at wave heights of 1 to 3 feet, building up to 4 feet offshore in Atlantic waters.
DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURE 82°F 28°C
OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURE 72°F 22°C
SUNSET: 07:01 PM
NEXT HIGH TIDE: 02:13 PM (2.0 FT)
NEXT LOW TIDE: 08:25 PM (0.3 FT)
EXTENDED FORECAST: An increase in moisture combined with upper-level support will bring a higher chance of showers and thunderstorms through Friday. Conditions may become unsettled at times, with periods of rain and possible thunderstorms as the surface trough shifts west of the islands.
THURSDAY: A low (10 to 20 percent) chance of isolated showers. A mix of sun and clouds, with a high near 84°F (29°C).
THURSDAY NIGHT: A low (10 to 20 percent) chance of isolated showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75°F (24°C).
WINDS: Northeast to east at 10 to 20 knots
SEAS: Slight to moderate at wave heights of 2 to 4 feet, building up to 6 feet offshore in Atlantic waters.
SUNRISE: 06:47 AM
SUNSET: 07:01 PM
HIGH TIDE: 02:15 AM (3.0 FT) 03:18 PM (2.0 FT)
LOW TIDE: 09:56 AM (1.0 FT) 09:30 PM (0.7 FT)
FRIDAY: A low (30 percent) chance of widely scattered showers and a very isolated thunderstorm. A mix of sun and clouds, with a high near 84°F (29°C).
FRIDAY NIGHT: A low (20 to 30 percent) chance of widely scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75°F (24°C). New total rainfall accumulation of about a quarter of an inch.
WINDS: Northeast to east at 10 to 20 knots
SEAS: Slight to moderate at wave heights of 2 to 4 feet, building up to 6 to 7 feet offshore in Atlantic waters.
SUNRISE: 06:46 AM
SUNSET: 07:02 PM
HIGH TIDE: 04:20 AM (3.0 FT) 04:28 PM (2.0 FT)
LOW TIDE: 11:00 AM (1.0 FT) 10:38 PM (0.7 FT)
FORECASTER: H. HAMILTON
Chuck Norris remembered by his Expendables co-stars after his death at 86
Tributes are pouring in for Chuck Norris.
The actor and martial artist, known for starring in the TV series Walker, Texas Ranger and films like The Delta Force and The Expendables 2, died Thursday morning. He was 86.
On Friday, many across Hollywood and beyond paid tribute to Norris on social media and shared memories of him, including his Expendables 2 co-stars Sylvester Stallone and Jean-Claude Van Damme.
Stallone shared a photo with Norris on the set of the 2012 action film and captioned the post, "I had a great time working with Chuck. He was All American in every way. Great man and my condolences to his wonderful family."
Van Damme added in his post, in which he included photos of Norris over the years, "Deepest condolences on the passing of my friend, Chuck Norris. We knew each other from my early days, and I always respected the man he was. My heart and prayers are with his family. He will never be forgotten."
Expendables 2 actor Dolph Lundgren also took to Instagram to post a photo of Norris. He wrote in the caption, "Chuck Norris is the champ. Ever since I was a young martial artist and later getting into movies, I always looked up to him as a role model. Someone who had the respect, humility and strength it takes to be a man. We will miss you, my friend."
Source-ABC
290 American troops wounded in Iran war
According to our affiliate ABC news, we are learning that at least 290 troops have been wounded so far in the war with Iran, according to a U.S. official.
Ten of those injured are seriously wounded, which the Department of Defense defines as when the service member’s life is still at risk.
President Donald Trump announced "major combat operations" against Iran on Feb. 28, with massive joint U.S.-Israeli strikes attack targeting military and government sites, officials said.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was among those killed in Tehran on the first day of strikes, with his son Mojtaba Khamenei later chosen to succeed him. Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel, regional U.S. bases and multiple Gulf nations.
Source- ABC
Robert Mueller, former FBI director and special counsel, dies at 81
Robert Mueller, the former FBI director who led the bureau in the tumultuous decade following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, and who later served as special counsel overseeing the politically charged investigation into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election, has died, his family announced. He was 81.
"With deep sadness, we are sharing the news that Bob passed away last night," a family statement said. "His family asks that their privacy be respected."
The FBI Agents Association also mourned the passing of Mueller, noting he led the bureau "during a period of significant change and played an important role in strengthening its ability to confront evolving national security threats while maintaining its core criminal investigative mission."
Mueller was the second-longest serving FBI director in the agency's history. He had a decorated career in public service, cultivating a reputation for steady leadership, dedication to country and commitment to protecting the nation's security.
Born in New York City on Aug. 7, 1944, Robert Swan Mueller III studied politics at Princeton University, and then earned a master's degree in international relations from New York University.
Emboldened by the death of a classmate in the Vietnam War, Mueller enlisted in the Marines in 1968, serving two years in Vietnam as a platoon leader, during which he was awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, two Commendation Medals and other recognition.
Upon leaving the Marines in 1970 at the rank of captain, Mueller attended the University of Virginia Law School, graduating in 1973 and then spending the next 28 years working as a U.S. attorney in San Francisco, Boston and Washington, D.C., as well as three years at the Department of Justice Criminal Division.
During his time at the DOJ, Mueller investigated the Gambino crime family and also prosecuted the men responsible for bombing a Pan Am Flight in December 1988, as well as former Panamanian military leader Manuel Noriega.
On July 5, 2001, Mueller was appointed to be director of the FBI, nominated by then-President George W. Bush. His tenure there saw the bureau's focus shift from domestic investigations to tackling foreign terrorists after the 9/11 attacks, during which time Mueller developed a reputation among agents for being no-nonsense.
After serving his full 10-year term as FBI director, Mueller agreed to then-President Barack Obama's request to remain in the position for two more years, after which he returned to the private sector in 2013.
In May 2017, Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein appointed Mueller to oversee the investigation of alleged Russian government efforts to influence the 2016 presidential election. The investigation focused primarily on the 2016 Donald Trump presidential campaign and returned numerous high-profile indictments, including political consultant and lobbyist Roger Stone, former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, and 32 others.
Mueller submitted his long-anticipated report in March 2019, which did not find that the Trump campaign had worked with the Russian government to influence the outcome of the 2016 presidential election. Two months later, he stepped down from his special counsel position and returned to private life.
Trump took to social media Saturday as news of Mueller's passing broke.
"Robert Mueller just died," the president said. "Good, I’m glad he’s dead. He can no longer hurt innocent people!"
The president's statements were quickly met with pushback on Capitol Hill.
Mueller is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Ann Cabell Standish, as well as two daughters and five grandchildren.
OFFICE OF THE COMPLAINTS COMMISSION STRENGTHENS REGIONAL TIES THROUGH SAINT MAARTEN ATTACHMENT
The Turks and Caicos Islands Office of the Complaints Commission is pleased to announce the successful completion of a one-week professional attachment, held from March 9th -13th 2026, by Investigative Officer, Ms. Raynae Myers, at the Bureau Ombudsman Office in Sint Maarten.
This initiative forms part of the Commission’s ongoing commitment to strengthening regional collaboration, enhancing institutional capacity, and promoting the highest standards of public service oversight within the Turks and Caicos Islands.
During the attachment, Ms. Myers engaged directly with the Ombudsman Office team, gaining valuable insight into their investigative processes, case management systems, and approaches to resolving complaints. The experience provided a meaningful opportunity to exchange best practices and explore innovative strategies that can further improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the Commission’s work.
As part of the programme, Ms. Myers also visited the Sint Maarten Parliament, where she observed legislative operations and gained a deeper understanding of governance structures within the jurisdiction. Additionally, she toured the Mental Health Foundation facility, broadening her perspective on the intersection between public service delivery and vulnerable populations.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Myers noted that the attachment was both enriching and impactful, highlighting the importance of knowledge-sharing and regional partnerships in advancing accountability and transparency across Caribbean institutions.
“This experience reinforced the value of collaboration in strengthening our systems and improving service delivery. The insights gained will contribute meaningfully to the continued development of the Complaints Commission and its mandate to serve the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands,” she stated.
The Complaints Commission extends its sincere appreciation to the Bureau Ombudsman Office in Sint Maarten for their warm hospitality and willingness to facilitate this exchange. Such partnerships play a critical role in advancing good governance and fostering stronger institutional relationships across the region.
The Commission remains committed to building on this momentum, leveraging regional cooperation to enhance its operations and deliver greater impact for the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
A LEGACY OF STYLE. A VISION OF EXCELLENCE. AN ICON HONORED
Turks and Caicos Islands Fashion Week 2026, The New Tropic, proudly celebrates Dr. Demekos Williams as this year’s Honorary Recipient—a true icon whose influence has shaped and elevated the fashion industry within the Turks and Caicos Islands and beyond.
Renowned for his creativity, vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Dr. Williams represents the very essence of Caribbean luxury, innovation, and cultural expression. His legacy is not only one of style, but of impact—paving the way for emerging designers, models, and creatives to dream boldly and execute with purpose.
As we prepare for one of the most anticipated fashion events in the region, The New Tropic invites you into a world where fashion meets culture, elegance meets identity, and vision becomes reality.
✨ This is more than a fashion week—this is a movement.
✨ This is where the Caribbean takes center stage.
✨ This is where icons are honored, and new legacies begin.
We invite designers, models, creatives, media, and the wider community to participate, support, and get involved in this groundbreaking initiative. Be part of the energy. Be part of the experience. Be part of history.
Turks and Caicos Islands Fashion Week 2026 – The New Tropic, where luxury lives, where culture breathes, where the future of fashion is born.