Usher and Rémy Martin offering fans an opportunity to win tickets to his tour
Want tickets to Usher's Past Present Future tour? Here's your chance. Usher has teamed with Rémy Martin, sponsor of the tour's North American leg, for a sweepstakes that gives fans an opportunity to win tickets to one of his shows. Fans can scan select QR codes in stores and other advertisements, or go to the website to enter the sweepstakes, which will be live until Oct. 31. For more information, check out UsherTour.RemyMartin.com.
Rémy Martin and Usher are also hosting a few experiences for VIP fans, complete with a cocktail experience featuring drinks made especially for the tour.
"As we continue to support USHER during this legendary year, we're proud to pass the javelin on to the next generation of cognac drinkers and music lovers," Nicolas Beckers, Rémy Cointreau Americas' CEO, said in a statement. "Through our tour partnership and sweepstakes, Rémy Martin is reaching clients where they are, offering unforgettable moments of celebration and connection."
"This tour is a celebration of the past, present and future. Teaming up with Rémy Martin, a brand that's felt like family for more than a decade and has been crafting cognac for 300 years, is the perfect collaboration in bringing the tour to life across the U.S.," Usher adds. "Together, we honor the legacy of music and cognac, celebrating our shared history while looking forward to an exciting future."
Usher's tour kicks off in August and runs through the end of November.
Source-ABC
Summer workers to join Hurricane Beryl damage assessment team
As the clock turns, desperation sets in for many Jamaicans awaiting a return to normalcy on that island.
In a bid to fast-track the damage assessment following the passage of Hurricane Beryl on July 3, a decision has been taken to reassign hundreds of summer workers in Jamaica from the Youth Summer Employment Programme to the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management.
The aim is to “bring rapid conclusion to the damage assessment process,” Prime Minister Andrew Holness said on Tuesday. He was giving an update on the Government’s relief and recovery efforts, during a statement in the House of Representatives.
The Prime Minister of Jamaica, Hon. Andrew Holines pointed out that “there is much data collection and damage assessment work being conducted across Jamaica”.
He added that “Given our commitment to fast-track these assessments, the government, through the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development, has provided 200 summer workers from the Youth Summer Employment Programme, to assist the Ministry of Labour and Social Security in its efforts to assist those affected in a timely manner. I am also pleased to announce that an additional 300 summer workers …will be assigned to the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management, to bring rapid conclusion to the damage assessment process.
The PM added that they will be in the field beginning next Monday, July 22”.
Source- Jamaica Observer
Comedy and TV legend Bob Newhart dead at 94
Comedian and TV star Bob Newhart has died, ABC News has confirmed. He was 94.
His longtime publicist, Jerry Digney, reported the legendary comedian with the trademark deadpan delivery died at his home in Los Angeles "after a series of short illnesses."
The Chicago native, born George Robert Newhart, became a household name with the release of his 1960 comedy album, The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart. It won Newhart three Grammys: Album of the Year, Best New Artist and Best Comedy Album.
After the success of The Button-Down Mind, Newhart got his own variety show with NBC, The Bob Newhart Show. Though it was canceled after one season, Newhart earned an Emmy nomination and a Peabody Award.
He went on to guest star on shows including The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and The Ed Sullivan Show over the next few years, and in 1972 he took on the starring role in The Bob Newhart Show. In that show, Newhart played a psychologist named Robert Hartley who was constantly interacting with patients and colleagues.
That show lasted six seasons, and in 1982 he took on a new sitcom, Newhart, in which he portrayed an innkeeper named Dick Loudon. Newhart earned the actor three Emmy nominations, and its finale — which saw him wake up in his bedroom from The Bob Newhart Show — has been lauded as one of the greatest in television history.
Newhart went on have two other shows, Bob and George and Leo, though neither became the hits that The Bob Newhart Show and Newhart were.
In 2003, he starred in Jon Favreau's holiday classic Elf as Will Ferrell's adoptive father, Papa Elf.
Newhart won his first Emmy in 2013 for a guest-starring role in The Big Bang Theory.
A voice-over artist who lent his talent to films such as The Rescuers and The Rescuers Down Under, Newhart is survived by four children — Jennifer, Courtney, Timothy and Robert — and numerous grandchildren.
Virginia "Ginnie" Newhart, his wife of 60 years, passed away in 2023.
Source-ABC
Grenada Opposition alarmed at statement made by Prime Minister
The Grenada opposition New National Party (NNP) Monday said it is “alarmed” at a statement made by Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell regarding loans being disbursed by the Grenada Development Bank (GDB).
Speaking on a television programme on Sunday, Mitchell said that the bank does business with Grenadian citizens whether it be a politician or a public official.
“.…if that politician, citizen or public official meets the bank’s criteria for financial services from the bank that citizen, that public officials, that politician in my mind is entitled to have access to the bank’s services like any other citizen of Grenada,” Mitchell added.
In a statement, the NNP said that the statements by Prime Minister Mitchell “are worrying and the actions have violated the Grenada Development Bank Act, specifically Section 5 concerning the Prohibition Relating to Sub-loans”.
The NNP said that the particular section states “The Bank shall not make sub-loans out of the proceeds of the loan to a director of the Bank, to a member of the Legislature of the State of Grenada or to any company controlled by any such director or member of the Legislature or to the close relatives of any such director or member of the Legislature.”
The opposition party said that “this statute is intended to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure fairness and transparency in the management of public resources.
”While sitting MPs receive millions from the Grenada Development Bank, local farmers, fishermen, and small business owners struggle to access the funds they need to grow their businesses. The bank was originally designed to support these community entrepreneurs, not politicians,” the main opposition party added.
“Given these concerning revelations, we call for the immediate resignation of the GDB board to restore trust and integrity in our financial institutions. Additionally, any minister or MP who has benefited from these loans while holding office should resign and immediately repay the bank the monies received,” the NNP added.
In his interview, Prime Minister Mitchell confirmed that Andy Williams, was a customer of the bank before becoming a Member of Parliament in June 2022 and he has continued to conduct business with the financial institution.
“As far as I am aware, Minister Williams has been a customer of the Grenada Development Bank pre his involvement in public life. That is factual, that is clear and his relationship with the bank has continued. The bank and my government are not using the bank to finance no personal loans of any minister,” the Prime Minister said.
Source-CMC
Experience Turks and Caicos mourns the passing of Mr Reggie Dickenson
It is with deep regret that Experience Turks and Caicos confirms the passing of Mr. Reggie Dickenson, one of our employees who worked in the Grand Turk office.
Mr Dickenson passed away on Saturday, 22nd June following a vehicular accident in Providenciales. We extend our condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
A passionate, vivacious and animated person, Mr. Dickenson was a former employee at the Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board who transitioned to Experience Turks and Caicos in 2023.
He worked as the Grand Turk Customer Service Representative alongside Ms. Kadeisha Forbes, a role he took seriously as he greeted visitors to the Cruise Centre, interacted with them and ensured they had the relevant information they needed to enjoy their stay on island.
Mr. Dickenson was known for his unwavering positivity and team spirit, always eager to contribute his opinions and ideas. He last participated in a Customer Service Training session with his colleagues on June 10th in Providenciales where he invoked laughter with his witty remarks.
Minister of Tourism, the Hon Josephine Connolly expressed her sadness upon receipt of the news of Mr. Dickenson’s passing.
“Reggie was a passionate son of the soil of Grand Turk. I last saw him at our celebrations for Salt Cay Day where he was thoroughly enjoying himself. This is devastating news. Reggie would certainly be missed and I would like to extend my condolences to his family and loved ones. May he Rest in Eternal Peace,” the Minister said.
Mr. Alvin Hegner, co-chair of Experience Turks and Caicos also expressed his condolences.
“Reggie will definitely be missed. He had a larger-than-life personality, always jovial and a positive. His energy was infectious and his loss will certainly create a void that would be difficult to replace. From the board and staff of Experience Turks and Caicos, I would like to extend my condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. May he Rest in Peace.”
Experience Turks and Caicos will update the public on Mr. Dickenson’s funeral arrangements as those details become available.
DDME hosts 2024 Hurricane Preparedness Exposition
The Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) will host its 5th Hurricane Preparedness Expo. The Hurricane Preparedness Expo will feature booths from over twelve diverse agencies and stakeholders. The event will provide critical stakeholders with roles in disaster management an opportunity to interact with the public, demonstrate their services, and guide individuals and businesses on how they can prepare for this hurricane season.
The objective is to ensure the population is ready should a hurricane impact our region by offering a one-stop shop for the general public to gather helpful information and ask their hurricane and storm-related questions.
We ask residents to show up and partake in this preparedness event. The event is free, fun and educational with tonnes of giveaways.
This project demonstrates the commitment of the public-private partnership and the commitment to disaster risk reduction for the private sector and government entities in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The Hurricane Preparedness Expo will be on Friday, 28th June 2024, at the Town Centre Mall, Parking Lot, Downtown, Providenciales, from 10:00 am until 3:00 pm. We look forward to your participation.
SHARKS4KIDS COLLABORATES WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
The Department of Education would like to thank Sharks4Kids for organizing and delivering lessons and field visits with our primary and secondary schools.
Shark4kids aims to inspire the next generation of shark advocates through education, outreach, and adventure. Since 2019, the team has visited schools in Turks and Caicos, returning this year for the third installment of Project Lemon Aid.
The project focuses on lemon sharks, particularly juveniles, to understand their population and habitat use around Turks and Caicos. Students get hands-on science experience, assisting with data collection and learning about the importance of sharks.
“Sharks and our oceans are in trouble, and education is critical for conservation,” says Jillian Morris, Founder and President of Sharks4Kids. “We want students to feel empowered, to know they can make a difference. Providing them with facts instead of fear helps inspire curiosity and excitement to take action.”
“A crucial part of Project Lemon Aid is the education element,” adds Candace Fields, Sharks4Kids Ambassador. “By going into schools, we can inform about the economic and ecological importance of sharks. It’s always special to be part of fostering scientific curiosity and a genuine interest in sharks in the future generation of ocean advocates.”
During the month of May, Jillian, Candace, and Michelle spoke to students at Ianthe Pratt Primary School, Thelma Lightbourne Primary School, Oseta Jolly Primary School, Louise Garland High School, Clement Howell High School, Provo Primary School, and the Edward C. Gartland Youth Centre. Over 1000 students learned about sharks, their role in the Turks and Caicos ecosystem, the research being done, and how they can help save sharks. Staff members from Big Blue Collective also joined the team. The goal is to involve more local team members in classrooms throughout the year, and this event marked the beginning of that initiative. Students at the Youth Centre participated in a mock shark tagging activity and experienced a Virtual Reality shark dive.
In addition to this, students from Clement Howell High School, Precious Treasures, Provo Primary, and Alpha Christian Academy joined the team in the field, helping with all aspects of data collection during the scientific workups.
“Seeing the change in students’ attitudes toward sharks is incredible,” says Michelle Jensen, Sharks4Kids Ambassador. “Fear turns into fascination, and they start cheering for sharks instead of running from them. We’re sparking a lifelong love for these incredible creatures and instilling a sense of responsibility for their protection.”
Adding to the exciting experience offered to the students of Turks and Caicos, Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, remarked, “The partnership with Sharks4Kids has provided an invaluable opportunity for our students to engage in hands-on learning and develop a deeper understanding of marine conservation. It’s inspiring to see our young people so enthusiastic about protecting our natural resources.”
Shark4kids would like to thank Ms. Elisann Delancy, Curriculum Development Officer from the Ministry of Education, and local partners for their support.
TCI CELEBRATE KING’S BIRTHDAY PARADE
The Turks and Caicos Islands held its annual Parade in honour of the Official Birthday of His Majesty King Charles III. Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam and the Honourable Premier, Charles Washington Misick OBE joined members of Cabinet, the House of Assembly, the Judiciary, dignitaries, senior officials, residents and visitors to commemorate the good health and long reign of His Majesty The King.
The King's Birthday Parade included various uniformed organisations, including members of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF), HM Prison Service, Turks and Caicos Island Regiment, Border Force, the Ex-Servicemen Legion, the Cadet Corps, Sea Cadets, Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, Rainbows and school children. As part of the celebrations, Coronation Medals and Long Service Awards were presented to qualifying members of our uniformed services.
Her Excellency the Governor’s Remarks:
Good morning, I wish a warm welcome to all of you here in the nation’s capital Grand Turk and to those watching on live stream, as we gather to celebrate His Majesty The King's Official Birthday.
This occasion is not just a day marked on our calendars but a celebration of enduring duty and unwavering dedication to public service.
His Majesty The King serves as a symbol of unity and strength. He is a strong advocate of the Overseas Territories and has championed numerous causes, fostering a sense of community and collective responsibility amongst us all. From environmental conservation efforts to initiatives that support the arts, education and healthcare, The King’s vision for a better society
has inspired countless individuals to contribute to the common good. His dedication to these causes reminds us that true leadership is not about authority but about service and the impact of such leadership across generations.
Today, we celebrate not only His Majesty The King but also this spirit of unity and cooperation that defines our communities across the Turks and Caicos Islands; and acknowledge the collective efforts that have contributed to the prosperity and well-being of our nation.
In honouring The King’s Official Birthday, let us also reaffirm our commitment to the principles of duty, service and compassion. The King’s example serves as a reminder that each of us has a role to play in building a brighter future - whether through acts of kindness, contributions to our communities, or conservation efforts to protect our environment.
I am delighted to see our youth – Cadets, Scouts, Guides, Brownies and school children - participating proudly in this joyous celebration. His Majesty The King has long been a strong advocate for quality education and for young people to realise their unique talents. Through education and community engagement, we can make a difference in providing pathways that support our youth to maximise their potential, nurture their confidence and open them to opportunities that build a bright future.
So far during my time as your Governor, I have met a great number of inspirational people who are working with dedication to support our youth’s potential and strengthen their confidence for the benefit of our communities. Our Cadet and Sea Cadet Corps is a real demonstration of that vision. We can all be rightly proud of their commitment, discipline and ambition.
Today, in celebration of His Majesty's Birthday Parade, we express our profound thanks and compliments to our uniformed services on parade today. I thank you wholeheartedly for your service to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Stand proud, we commend you. Each of you serves as an example of dedicated duty and dignified public service. Your fidelity and sacrifice do not go unnoticed. May you continue to serve with distinction. Our sentinel Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force symbolises constancy and resolute commitment to safeguarding our well-being and security in the face of any challenge. Our TCI Regiment is a standard-bearer of national pride and duty in the development of our defence posture. Our Border Force is an illustration of enduring vigilance and our Islands’ growing institutional maturity. His Majesty's Prison is a stoic example of determination of purpose, public safety and rehabilitation.
We have much to be proud of, but we will not fall victim to complacency or hubris. Our strong foundation of community identity, strength and resilience has carried our islands through many a challenge. Tackling the present challenge, of ensuring the safety of these precious islands, requires the strength of the community to come forth. Now more than ever, a strong relationship between the police, partner agencies and the communities that they serve is of critical importance.
As we come together in celebration, let us also look forward with hope and determination. The challenges we face as a nation may seem complex, but there is also opportunity. Guided by our faith and inspired by the leadership of His Majesty, we can navigate these challenges with courage and grace. Together, we can build a future that fulfils the promise of our collective potential.
Let us raise our voices in gratitude and celebration. We wish His Majesty The King good health as he continues to lead with distinction and grace. May his reign continue to be marked by wisdom, compassion and a steadfast commitment to the well-being of all who he serves.
I wish His Majesty The King a prosperous and blessed Birthday; and for God's continued blessings on our beautiful by nature Islands. I wish everyone a happy and memorable King's Birthday Parade.
God save The King!
Aviation Drive and Academy Avenue to receive road fixtures according to PPID
The Ministry of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development wishes to notify the general public of the commencement of permanent road fixtures on Aviation Drive and Academy Avenue. This capital expenditure of over $1.5M is a significant infrastructure project aimed at enhancing road safety, improving traffic flow, and providing a more durable roadway for residents and visitors alike.
The roadworks will involve a comprehensive upgrade including the removal of the existing surface, rough grading, shaping, and compaction with a stabilised base and a final finish of hot asphalt mix. These works will also include the installation of advanced drainage systems to prevent future water accumulation and damage.
Preliminary works are set to begin as early as today, 12 June 2024. The project is expected to progress through several phases, each meticulously planned to minimise disruption while ensuring the highest standards of construction and safety.
During the construction period, traffic disruption is expected on Aviation Drive and Academy Avenue. We advise motorists to plan their routes accordingly, allow for extra travel time, and follow all posted signage and directions from traffic control personnel.
To ease the impact on daily commutes, alternative routes will be clearly marked, and updates will be provided regularly through local media channels and the TCIG’s social media pages.
The Deputy Premier commenting on this project shared, “I extend my gratitude to the dedicated staff within the Ministry of PPID; Acting Permanent Secretary Dominique Durham and the team within the Public Works Department for their swift action in procuring the necessary emergency waiver and supporting procedures to execute urgent road repairs. Your commitment has been crucial in addressing these infrastructure needs promptly. I wish also to express my sincere appreciation to the public for their patience and understanding during this period. Your cooperation is invaluable in allowing us to carry out these essential repairs.”
The safety of the public and our construction teams is our top priority. We urge all road users to exercise caution when travelling through or near the construction zones, adhere to speed limits, and respect all traffic management measures in place.
For more information or to share any concerns, please contact the Public Works Department. We thank you for your patience and cooperation as we undertake this essential project to improve our island's infrastructure.
Joint Operation Results in Interception of Illegal Migrants in Providenciales
The Royal Bahamas Defence Force intercepted an illegal sloop transporting SIXTY-SIX (66) irregular migrants on the evening of June 9th, 2024.
The detained group, comprising FIFTY-FIVE (55) males and ELEVEN (11) females, was intercepted in TCI waters and handed over to the TCI Immigration Task Force for processing.
On June 8th, the Marine Branch of the RTCIPF intercepted a blue and white fiberglass boat carrying thirty-two (32) irregular migrants.
The boat was spotted 27 miles east of South Caicos and found to be transporting twenty-six (26) males and six (6) females. The irregular migrants were handed over to Immigration for processing.
These successful interdictions came following information obtained from a US Customs and Border Force aircraft.
A joint operation conducted on June 7th has led to the detention of irregular migrants in Blue Hills. Acting on the information received, authorities detained forty-eight (48) individuals running along a beach.
Officers conducted extensive searches of surrounding areas, and tragically, the body of a female was found at Pigeon Pound. Further investigations are ongoing, but it is believed the incident is linked to a vessel attempting to enter the country illegally.
Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (Specialist Tactical Operations) Mat Newton states, “I wish to thank all law enforcement agencies for their invaluable assistance in intercepting illegal sloops attempting to enter the TCI. Your dedication and collaboration have been instrumental in ensuring national security and protecting our borders. Our Radar, Marine, and Drone units, the TCI Regiment, the Immigration Task Force, and the Customs Department conducted the
operations.
“The RTCIPF strongly condemns the attempts to enter the TCI illegally. Such actions violate the law and pose severe risks to life, especially in adverse weather conditions.
“We urge those facilitating and encouraging these illegal attempts to consider the severe consequences. Do not risk your life or the lives of others by embarking on such perilous journeys.
“I am also grateful to those people from our communities who report suspicious activity relating to illegal migration and would urge the public to continue keeping us informed.”
The RTCIPF asks the public to notify the closest police station, contact 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 to anonymously provide any information on illegal entry into the TCI.
Additionally, individuals are encouraged to download the CrimeStoppers P3 app to share information anonymously.
