California becomes the first state to sue Trump over tariffs
California is suing President Donald Trump's administration over the tariffs it has imposed on most of the U.S.'s trading partners, Gov. Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced Wednesday, the first state to do so since Trump announced his sweeping tariffs earlier this month.
Speaking from a Central Valley almond farm, Newsom laid out the state's place in the global economy and the impacts the tariffs are having and will have on the state.
"No state is poised to lose more than California," Newsom said.
The governor said 43% of that state's almonds, pistachios, and dairy products are export-dependent on California.
The state's lawsuit targets Trump's use of the International Economic Emergency Powers Act, which Trump is using to justify the tariffs. It is similar to one filed Monday by a group of small businesses against the administration.
Source- ABC
Fed Chair Powell sounds alarm on tariffs, sending stocks lower
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said Wednesday that he expects President Donald Trump's tariffs policy to cause higher inflation and slower economic growth, complicating potential central bank efforts to ease the fallout.
"The level of the tariff increases announced so far is significantly larger than anticipated. The same is likely to be true of the economic effects, which will include higher inflation and slower growth," Powell told the audience at the Economic Club of Chicago.
Powell's remarks immediately sent stocks lower as investors digested the top central banker's concern about the tariffs.
Wednesday's address marked Powell's first public remarks since Trump last week paused his so-called "reciprocal tariffs" on most countries for 90 days.
"Markets are struggling with a lot of uncertainty and that means volatility," Powell said on Wednesday. Still, he added, the volatility reflected the significance of the policy changes, rather than abnormal behavior in the markets.
Source-ABC
Scoreboard roundup
NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION
Hawks 95, Magic 120
Grizzlies 116, Warriors 121
NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE
Devils 5, Bruins 4
Maple Leafs 4, Sabres 0
Blackhawks 4, Senators 3
Blue Jackets 3, Flyers 0
Panthers 1, Lightning 5
Capitals 3, Islanders 1
Utah Hockey Club 1, Blues 6
Ducks 2, Wild 3
Golden Knights 4, Flames 5
Kings 6, Kraken 5
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
Diamondbacks 10, Marlins 4
Mariners 4, Reds 8
Nationals 3, Pirates 0
Giants 4, Phillies 6
Red Sox 7, Rays 4
Guardians 6, Orioles 3
Royals 2, Yankees 4
Braves 3, Blue Jays 6
Tigers 0, Brewers 5
Mets 3, Twins 6
Athletics 12, White Sox 3
Astros 2, Cardinals 0
Angels 0, Rangers 4
Cubs 2, Padres 1
Rockies 2, Dodgers 6
Sean 'Diddy' Combs asks judge to exclude Cassie video from trial
Sean "Diddy" Combs formally asked the judge overseeing his criminal prosecution on Thursday to exclude one of the more dramatic pieces of evidence from his upcoming trial: a March 2016 video from the Intercontinental Hotel in Los Angeles that depicts Combs kicking and dragging then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura.
The defense asserted that CNN, which first obtained and aired the video, "altered, manipulated, sped-up, and edited" the footage such that it is "wholly inaccurate" and inadmissible.
CNN has said it never altered the video and did not destroy the original copy of the footage, as the defense alleged.
"The more complete footage of the incident — in contrast to the government’s sensationalized CNN cut — contradicts the government’s representations,” defense attorney Alexandra Shapiro wrote in a court filing last November first alleging the manipulation.
Combs apologized after the video came out publicly and said, "I take full responsibility for my actions in that video."
In a video posted to Instagram in May 2024, shortly after the video was released, Diddy acknowledged the video and apologized, saying, "It's so difficult to reflect on the darkest times in your life, but sometimes you got to do that."
"I hit rock bottom — but I make no excuses," he continued. "My behavior on that video is inexcusable."
Now, the defense has asked the judge to hold a hearing at which a forensic video analyst would testify the video is "not a fair and accurate reflection of the actions depicted."
Federal prosecutors have yet to respond in court papers. They've previously pointed to the video as evidence of sex-trafficking Cassie for a freak off in which she was forced to engage in sex acts with male prostitutes. Prosecutors also previously alleged the video was evidence of the danger Combs could pose to women if released on bail.
Combs has pleaded not guilty to five federal counts and is scheduled to go on trial in May. His attorneys have separately asked for a two-month delay to resolve other evidentiary disputes.
3-DAY PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST
GENERAL SITUATION: The combination of troughing and increased moisture over the Turks and Caicos Islands will support a wet weather pattern across the islands today.
SPECIAL WARNINGS: LOCALIZED FLOODING IS POSSIBLE IN AREAS OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS TODAY, ALONG WITH A MARGINAL TO SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS.
WEATHER: Mostly cloudy to overcast with a high (90 percent) chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms this afternoon. Partly cloudy with a medium (40 percent) chance of scattered showers tonight. New total rainfall amounts between half an inch to an inch.
WINDS: Variable at 10 knots or less, becoming northeast to east at 10 to 15 knots
SEAS: Caicos Bank & Atlantic Nearshore – 2 to 4 feet; Atlantic Offshore – 3 to 5 feet
DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURE 81°F 27°C
OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURE 73°F 23°C
SUNSET: 7:08 PM
NEXT LOW TIDE: 05:23 PM (0.7 FT)
NEXT HIGH TIDE: 11:59 PM (2.6 FT)
EXTENDED FORECAST: The surface trough will linger near the Turks and Caicos Islands on Thursday, maintaining some instability across the islands. By the weekend, a high-pressure system is expected to emerge off the U.S. East Coast, tightening the pressure gradient and leading to strong, gusty winds across the area into the weekend.
THURSDAY: A low (20 to 30 percent) chance of showers in the morning and the afternoon. Partly cloudy, with a high near 86°F (27°C)
THURSDAY NIGHT: Isolated showers possible in the evening. Mostly fair, with a low around 75°F (24°C)
WINDS: Northeast to east at 10 knots or less, increasing to 10 to 15 knots in the afternoon
SEAS: Caicos Bank – 3 feet or less; Atlantic Nearshore – 2 to 4 feet; Atlantic Offshore – 4 to 6 feet
SUNRISE: 6:27 AM
SUNSET: 7:09 PM
LOW TIDE: 06:24 AM (1.0 FT) 06:00 PM (0.7 FT)
HIGH TIDE: 11:56 AM (2.0 FT) - - -
FRIDAY: A low (10 percent) chance of isolated showers in the morning. A mix of sun and clouds in the morning, then mostly sunny in the afternoon, with a high near 86°F (27°C).
FRIDAY NIGHT: Fair, with a low around 75°F (24°C).
ADVISORY: A Small Craft Advisory will come into effect for the Atlantic waters and sheltered waters.
WINDS: Northeast at 15 to 20 knots, increasing to 20 to 25 knots at night.
SEAS: Caicos Bank – 2 to 4 feet; Atlantic Nearshore – 3 to 5 feet; Atlantic Offshore – 6 to 8 feet
SUNRISE: 6:26 AM
SUNSET: 7:09 PM
LOW TIDE: 07:07 AM (1.0 FT) 06:42 PM (0.7 FT)
HIGH TIDE: 12:33 PM (2.0 FT) - - -
TCI Builds Regional Resilience with Advanced Training in Arbovirus Detection and Surveillance
In a stride towards enhancing regional health security, the Turks and Caicos Islands proudly hosted a week-long, high-level laboratory training focused on strengthening the diagnostic detection and surveillance of arboviruses. Held from 24 – 28 March 2025, the intensive workshop was facilitated by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) under the framework of the 11th European Development Fund (EDF) Zika Programme. The sessions were conducted under the expert guidance of Nikhella Winter-Reece, an internationally recognised Laboratory Technologist Consultant with the European Union Division of Surveillance, Disease Prevention and Control, Laboratory Services and Network.
Launched in 2019, the EDF Zika Programme has become a beacon of hope and progress for the Caribbean, delivering vital support to bolster public health systems against mosquito-borne threats. Through this programme, countries like the TCI continue to benefit from regional expertise, collaborative knowledge exchange, and state-of-the-art practices, which reinforces our collective ability to protect lives and livelihoods.
Participants in the workshop engaged in both theoretical and hands-on practical sessions designed to sharpen laboratory techniques, improve the availability and use of surveillance data, and strengthen multi-country coordination in responding to arboviral outbreaks. This training not only empowered local health professionals but also reaffirmed the TCI’s commitment to the fight against emerging public health threats.
Mosquito-borne illnesses—such as Zika, Dengue, Chikungunya, and Yellow Fever—remain an ongoing global challenge, with over 700 million infections and more than one million deaths reported annually according to the World Health Organisation. These viruses, spread by infected mosquitoes and other arthropods, often flourish in warm weather, making tropical and subtropical regions particularly vulnerable. Infections can range from mild fevers and rashes to more severe complications, underscoring the need for timely detection and effective prevention strategies.
“The battle against arboviral diseases is a shared responsibility,” stated Ms. Arlene Siebs, Director of the National Public Health Laboratory. “Through initiatives like this, we’re not just improving local capacity—we’re building a regional network of skilled professionals who are better equipped to respond swiftly and effectively.”
Commenting on the workshop, Honourable Minister of Health and Human Services Kyle Knowles stated: “The National Public Health Laboratory continues to push the boundaries of diagnostic excellence by embracing cutting-edge technology and fostering strategic partnerships. This training represents a proactive investment in the health and well-being of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands—and by extension, the Caribbean. This workshop underscores the power of regional solidarity and the importance of sustained investment in public health infrastructure. With every training, every test, and every shared lesson, the Caribbean moves one step closer to a healthier, more resilient future. The TCI was happy to host such a critical workshop.”
Male Charged with Unlawful Entry
On Saturday, 12th April 2025, between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 7:10 a.m., officers from the Tactical Unit and the Serious Crimes Unit executed a search warrant at a residence in Leeward Palms, Providenciales, as part of ongoing investigations.
The investigation is part of a case involving a robbery and aggravated burglary that took place on March 18, 2025, in Grace Bay.
During the operation, it was discovered that RUSHAWN DWAYNE MILLER, 36, had not entered the Turks and Caicos Islands through an authorized port of entry and had not received leave from an Immigration Officer.
As a result, Miller was charged with the offence of Unlawful Entry and remains in custody, where he awaits a court date.
BRUNO LEXIMA gets three years for Dangerous Driving
The Supreme Court in Grand Turk has sentenced 34-year-old BRUNO LEXIMA of Kew Town, Providenciales, to three years' imprisonment following a fatal traffic collision that occurred on Millennium Highway in November 2020.
Lexima appeared before the Grand Turk Supreme Court and was formally sentenced on April 8, 2025.
The court handed down the following sentence:
• Three (3) years’ imprisonment for Causing Death by Dangerous Driving.
• Four (4) months’ imprisonment for Dangerous Driving. (Both sentences are to run concurrently.)
Lexima’s driver's license will be disqualified for 12 months after his prison release.
While incarcerated, Lexima is required to:
• Participate in a Dangerous Driving Education Program facilitated by the Department of Rehabilitation.
• Receive psychological treatment through the Department of Behavioral Health Services.
On 23 November 2020, at approximately 5:30 a.m., police officers responded to reports of a serious motor vehicle collision involving two pedestrians struck by a white four-door Toyota Wish.
The incident occurred alongside the Millennium Highway, Providenciales.
Tragically, pensioner Kenneth John Walters, 70, of Blue Hills died at the scene as a result of injuries sustained. A 40-year-old female pedestrian was also injured and taken to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, where she was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Following a thorough investigation, Mr. Lexima was charged.
Employment Services extends survey
The Inspectorate Unit within the Employment Services and Labour Department is announcing an extension to its ongoing survey regarding Service Charges within the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Originally launched on 14th March 2025, for four weeks concluding on 11th April 2025, the survey will now remain open until 25th April 2025.
This survey aims to gather valuable insights from residents, employees, and employers within the service industry regarding the administration and application of Service Charges, specifically within the Hotel and Restaurant Sector. The findings of this survey will play a significant role in informing future policy decisions and ensuring that the application of
Service Charges aligns with the objectives of the Turks and Caicos Islands Hotel and Restaurant Service Charge Ordinance Chapter 19.10.
Key objectives of the survey are as follows:
To understand public sentiment toward current service charge practices.
To identify areas for improvement in transparency and fairness.
To assess the impact of Service Charges, consumer behaviour, and business operations.
To gather recommendations for potential policy reforms.
Ways to Share Your Feedback
Participate in the Service Charge Survey by scanning the QR code provided below or the same QR code available on posters at local grocery stores and participating hotels and restaurants.
Alternatively, you can access the survey directly online using the following link:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/9L6DGJ7
The Inspectorate Unit assures all participants that their responses will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and used only to inform research and potential policy changes.
Minister with responsibility for the Employment Services and Labour Department Deputy Premier, Hon. Jamal Robinson opined, “The Employment Services and Labour Department is committed to fostering growth, transparency and ensuring that employees receive an equitable share of Service Charge in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Through innovative policies and community engagement, the department strives to create an environment that benefits all employees and businesses in the Service Industry. The extension aims to ensure that individuals in the service industry are allowed to participate and be heard. I encourage all to take full advantage of this opportunity”.
The Employment Services and Labour Department encourages all residents, employees, and employers in the Service Industry to take advantage of this extended opportunity to share their valuable perspectives. Your input is vital in shaping the future of service charge practices in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Turks and Caicos Islands Nominated in the Conde Nast Traveler’s 2025 Readers' Choice Awards
The Turks and Caicos Islands have been nominated in the Beaches, Countries, and Islands categories of Conde Nast Traveler’s 2025 Readers' Choice Awards.
Grace Bay Beach is nominated in the Beaches category, while the overall destination is nominated in the Islands and Countries category. Several of our hotel partners are also nominated in the Hotels and Resorts categories.
The Condé Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Awards allows travellers to rate their travel experiences worldwide, offering a comprehensive look at the places they enjoyed and recommended to others. With its unparalleled legacy as the travel industry's longest-running and most prestigious accolades, the Readers' Choice Awards remain the ultimate symbol and acknowledgement of excellence within the travel sector.
“This nomination is another clear reminder that Turks and Caicos isn’t just in the conversation—we’re leading it,” said Minister of Tourism, Hon. Zhavargo Jolly. “When the people who visit our shores vote to rank us among the best in the world, that’s the kind of validation money can’t buy. It speaks to the quality of our product, the strength of our hospitality sector, and the lasting impression we leave on every guest. These awards don’t just build pride—they drive bookings, create jobs, and grow the economy for our people. That’s why they matter.”
From now through 30th June 2025, travellers can vote for the Turks and Caicos Islands at https://www.cntraveller.com/article/vote-readers-choice-awards. The 2025 results will be published in the November issue of CNT and online at https://www.cntraveler.com/.