Passengers on a Jetblue Flight Praise TCI Emergency Personnel
From our partners at Newsline TCI....
Passengers aboard a JetBlue flight from New York to Providenciales are giving high marks to Turks and Caicos emergency responders after witnessing what many described as an impressive level of preparedness during a frightening in-flight situation on Friday, May 15.
While the experience onboard left many shaken, several travelers said they were reassured after seeing ambulances, police vehicles and fire and rescue personnel positioned and ready on the ground as the aircraft prepared for what was initially feared could become an emergency landing situation.
One visitor reportedly told hotel staff after arriving at her destination that despite the frightening moments in the air, she was impressed by the coordinated response awaiting the aircraft below.
The frightening incident unfolded aboard the JetBlue flight originating in New York and bound for Providenciales after the aircraft reportedly developed issues during an attempted landing.
According to passengers on board, shortly after the pilot announced that the aircraft was preparing for landing, another announcement followed advising that the plane was experiencing what appeared to be a mechanical issue.
One passenger said the pilot aborted the initial landing attempt and pulled the aircraft back into the air. Following the maneuver, passengers reported hearing another announcement instructing them to tighten their seatbelts and assume a brace position, with the pilot reportedly explaining that he could not predict what might happen during the next landing attempt.
The announcement reportedly triggered panic among some passengers on board. Travelers said several individuals immediately reached for their cell phones to contact family members and loved ones to inform them about the developing situation. Passengers also described hearing cries and emotional reactions throughout the cabin as uncertainty grew.
The Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) reportedly received a 911 call regarding the developing incident and preparations began for a possible emergency response. However, officials were later advised to stand down after the aircraft successfully landed and the emergency situation was averted.
Relief quickly turned into celebration inside the cabin after the plane touched down safely without further incident.
TCIAA Donates to A Louise Garland Thomas High School
The Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA) proudly donated 40 keyboards, 35 mice, and 20 monitors to the ICT Department of the A. Louise Garland Thomas High School.
The TCIAA hopes that this contribution will help strengthen the school's ICT program by providing students with greater access to technology and opportunities to develop essential digital skills for future careers in the ICT field.
Special thanks were extended to Lovell Ingham, Information Technology Manager, at TCIAA for his support and dedication in helping to make this initiative possible. His efforts, along with the continued commitment of the Turks and Caicos Airports Authority to education and youth development, were truly appreciated.
Principal, of the A Louise Garland Thomas High School Sydwell Glasgow expressed heartfelt gratitude stating:
" The Administration and Staff of the school are extremely appreciative of the partnership with the TCIAA and deeply value your organization's commitment to education. It is our sincere hope that the TCIAA will continue to be one of our key stakeholders in providing resources that enhance the teaching and learning environment for the students entrusted to our care."
The Turks and Caicos Airports Authority remains committed to supporting youth development and advancing education through meaningful community partnerships.
3 DAY PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST FRIDAY MAY 22ND 2026
PUBLIC FORECAST FOR THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS FOR THE NEXT 3 DAYS FROM FRIDAY MAY 22ND 2026
GENERAL SITUATION: High pressure is dominating the region, bringing gentle to moderate winds across the Turks and Caicos Islands, while the mid to upper-level disturbance may trigger shower activity during the day, mainly near coastal areas.
SPECIAL WARNINGS: There are no public warnings in effect at this time.
ALL AREAS
WEATHER: Partly cloudy with a low (20 to 30 percent) chance of widely scattered showers through tonight.
WINDS: East to southeast at 10 to 20 knots
SEAS: Slight with wave heights of 2 to 4 feet
DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURE 88°F 31°C
HEAT INDEX 97°F 36°C
OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURE 79°F 26°C
SUNSET: 07:23 PM
NEXT HIGH TIDE: 01:40 PM (2.3 FT)
NEXT LOW TIDE: 07:53 PM (0.7 FT)
EXTENDED FORECAST: Brief, isolated showers are expected through the weekend and into next week. Breezy conditions will persist with seas gradually building. By next week, winds will strengthen with near gale-force gusts possible across parts of the Turks and Caicos Islands — mariners and those with outdoor plans should monitor updates closely.
SATURDAY: A medium (30 to 40 percent) chance of widely scattered showers. A mix of sun and clouds, with a high near 88°F (31°C).
SATURDAY NIGHT: A low (10 percent) chance of isolated showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 79°F (26°C).
WINDS: Easterly at 10 to 20 knots
SEAS: Slight to moderate with wave heights of 2 to 5 feet
SUNRISE: 06:07 AM
SUNSET: 07:23 PM
HIGH TIDE: 02:28 AM (2.6 FT) 02:47 PM (2.3 FT)
LOW TIDE: 09:00 AM (1.0 FT) 09:01 PM (0.7 FT)
SUNDAY: Isolated showers possible. Partly sunny, with a high near 88°F (31°C).
SUNDAY NIGHT: Isolated showers possible. Mostly fair, with a low around 79°F (26°C).
WINDS: Easterly at 15 to 20 knots with higher gusts
SEAS: Slight to moderate with wave heights of 2 to 5 feet, building up to 7 feet offshore in Atlantic waters.
SUNRISE: 06:06 AM
SUNSET: 07:24 PM
HIGH TIDE: 03:28 AM (2.6 FT) 03:57 PM (2.3 FT)
LOW TIDE: 09:57 AM (1.0 FT) 10:13 PM (1.0 FT)
TROPICAL WEATHER OUTLOOK: Tropical cyclone activity is not expected during the next 7 days.
FORECASTER: H. HAMILTON
Bahamas Law Enforcement Officials in Trouble with the Law
Police in the Bahamas arrested two trainee Customs officers after executing a search warrant at a residence in Kennedy Subdivision discovering unlicensed firearms, including a high-powered weapon, and ammunition concealed inside the home early Wednesday morning.
On Wednesday, 20th May 2026, officers attached to the Anti-Gang and Firearm Investigation Task Force, assisted by additional officers, arrested a 28-year-old man and a 22-year-old woman, both identified as Trainee Customs Officers, in connection with the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
Preliminary reports indicate that shortly after 2:00 a.m., officers acting on intelligence and armed with a search warrant proceeded to a residence located on Gilbert Street in Kennedy Subdivision. Upon arrival, officers made contact with the male and female occupants and informed them of the warrant.
A thorough search of the residence was subsequently conducted. During the search, officers discovered a magazine containing ammunition beneath a mattress in a north-eastern bedroom. Further searches of the ceiling area led to the discovery of two firearms, one being a high-powered weapon.
As a result, both individuals were taken into custody, cautioned in connection with the matter, and are assisting police with the ongoing investigation.
Also...
A serving female member of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force is among two people arrested after police seized a firearm with ammunition during an early morning operation in New Providence today.
According to preliminary reports, shortly after 1:00 a.m., officers attached to the Anti-Gang & Firearms Investigation Task Force, assisted by additional officers, acted on intelligence and executed a search warrant at a residence off Sea Breeze Lane.
During the search of the residence and its two occupants, officers discovered a firearm containing ammunition.
A 27-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman were subsequently arrested and cautioned. Police identified the woman as a serving member of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force.
Investigations remain ongoing.
Minister of Home Affairs Drives Reform Agenda Through Targeted Stakeholder Engagements
Minister of Home Affairs, Hon. Akierra Missick, has continued her series of stakeholder engagements, meeting with the Member of Parliament for South Caicos, Hon. Tamell Seymour, and representatives of the Turks and Caicos Islands Taxi Union as part of her commitment to responsive, inclusive, and people-centred governance.
Strengthening District Administration and Local Governance
Hon. Missick met with Hon. Tamell Seymour, Member of Parliament for South Caicos, for a timely and purposeful discussion on the Ministry's work to strengthen local governance and district administration across the family islands. The District Boards, established last year and now embedded within the Ministry's key performance framework, have begun to demonstrate their value as formal bridges between central Government and island communities, identifying priorities, channelling community concerns, and supporting locally driven development.
As the Ministry prepares to embark on a series of engagements across the family islands to conduct a post-implementation assessment of the Boards, the meeting with Hon. Seymour provided valuable early insight. The Ministry is actively reviewing both the legislative framework and the operationalisation of the Boards, drawing on lessons learned and identifying opportunities to strengthen their effectiveness, accountability, and impact. The conversation with Hon. Seymour was an important part of that process, informing the Ministry's approach as it works to refine and modernise the governance structures that underpin community administration in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Advancing Transportation Sector Reform
Hon. Missick also met with the President, Vice President, and Secretary of the TCI Taxi Union for a substantive discussion on the challenges and opportunities facing the public transportation sector. Key concerns were examined alongside legislative reforms being advanced to modernise the regulatory framework governing the sector. The meeting identified several areas of opportunity for cross-sector collaboration and concluded with tangible recommendations that will inform the Ministry's next steps.
The Taxi Union raised a range of sector-specific concerns for the Minister's consideration, including hotel contracting arrangements, the saturation of public service vehicles, compliance with airport pickup protocols, and matters relating to illegal public service operators.
The Taxi Union President welcomed the Minister's early engagement, expressing enthusiasm for the open and collaborative approach and optimism about the path forward for the sector.
Minister's Statement
Commenting on both engagements, Hon. Missick stated:
“Good governance is not an abstract concept; it must be experienced by people in their daily lives. Our responsibility is to ensure that the legislative frameworks, policies and systems falling within this Ministry are modern, responsive and genuinely fit for purpose. Government must work for the people it serves. When residents can access services efficiently and with dignity, when our laws and regulatory structures are forward-looking and effective, and when communities feel listened to and see meaningful action in response to their concerns, then we can say with confidence that we are fulfilling the mandate entrusted to us.”
Through meaningful engagement, modern frameworks, and a commitment to institutional excellence, the Ministry of Home Affairs will continue working to deliver responsive, trusted, and accessible public services for all who call the Turks and Caicos Islands home.
RBC Royal Bank (Bahamas) Ltd. Donates to TCI National Trust for Youth Environmental Summit
One corporate partner is doing their part for conservation and education in the Turks and Caicos Islands.. RBC Royal Bank (Bahamas) Limited has donated $15,000 to the Turks and Caicos Islands National Trust for their upcoming Youth Environmental Summit.
We'll hear more from Director of the TCI National Trust. Jasmine Parker-Thomas.
Thank you Royal Bank for being good corporate partners.. preserving the environment is vital and everybody's business.
Colorado Governor Proclaims May 20th as Friendship Day between the US State and TCI
The Turks and Caicos Islands received a major show of recognition during Premier Charles Washington Misick’s ongoing roadshow in the United States, as Colorado Governor Jared Polis officially proclaimed May 20, 2026, as Turks and Caicos Islands Friendship Day in the State of Colorado.
The proclamation was presented during a reception held at the Governor’s Mansion in Denver, where officials highlighted the growing relationship between the Turks and Caicos Islands and the State of Colorado.
According to officials, the recognition reflects expanding ties in tourism, investment, cultural exchange, connectivity, and broader collaboration between the two jurisdictions.
Premier Misick expressed appreciation to Governor Polis and the people of Colorado for what he described as a warm welcome and meaningful gesture of friendship. He noted that the engagement represents an important step toward strengthening long-term partnerships rooted in mutual respect and shared opportunities.
The Premier’s roadshow is aimed at promoting the Turks and Caicos Islands internationally while building relationships that can support economic growth, investment opportunities, and increased visibility for the destination.
Officials say the government remains committed to expanding partnerships that benefit residents and further position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a leading destination for tourism, business, and collaboration.
Rotaract Club of Providenciales Holds National Youth Tribunal
The Rotaract Club of Providenciales gave 15 young voices a platform to express themselves on a national issue... "Should the Turks and Caicos Islands
Prioritize Controlling the Cost of Living over
Rapid Economic Growth?"
Our Danae Dennie files this report.
"Kona Low" Storms in Hawaii Devastates Farmers
Recent catastrophic flooding, the worst event of its kind in Hawaii in over 20 years, which the governor has labeled the most severe flooding event since 2004 has caused between $31 million dollars in damages to local farms.
Back-to-back "Kona Low" storms, typically low pressure systems that usually flips the usual wind pattern and brings wet unstable weather, in March of 2026 dumped over 50 inches of rainfall in some areas of Hawaii, wiping out crops, livestock, and critical infrastructure across nearly 4,000 acres.
More than 600 of Hawaii's 6,500 farms have reported significant damage, though some estimates suggest nearly 2,000 farms may be affected.
Oahu's North Shore and West Side were hit particularly hard, with some entire farms completely submerged or washed away.
Farmers reported the loss of staple crops like tomatoes, cucumbers, okra, lemongrass, and leafy greens. Even water-thriving crops like taro were lost due to contamination from floodwaters.
Flooding destroyed irrigation systems, machinery, greenhouses, fencing, and personal vehicles covered in thick sludge.
Many affected are small, diversified farms that do not qualify for traditional crop insurance, leaving them without a financial buffer.
Market output has plummeted; some farmers report selling only a quarter of their usual volume, leading to fewer vegetables available at local swap meets and Honolulu's Chinatown.
In April 2026, a Major Disaster Declaration was approved to unlock federal assistance. Available support includes:
* Federal disaster relief, state long-term loans, and one-time $1,500 emergency grants.
* A charitable fund raised approximately $850,000, and many individual farmers have turned to online fundraising pages.
* The Hawaii Department of Agriculture is conducting soil safety tests and providing seeds and plant starts to help farmers restart.
RJR/Gleaner Communications Group Sells Historic Property
RJR/Gleaner Communications Group has signed a binding agreement to sell its historic property at 7 North Street in Kingston, Jamaica as part of a broader restructuring effort aimed at improving operational efficiency and enhancing long-term shareholder value.
In a statement issued, the media company said the agreement with LP Azar Limited includes the North Street building, adjoining lots and parking areas.
The company explained that this forms part of a strategic initiative to streamline operations and further consolidate activities at its Lyndhurst Road campus. According to RJR/Gleaner, the move will allow the organisation to place greater focus on its core print, digital and broadcast operations.
The transaction is expected to be completed within 45 days, pending the fulfilment of standard closing conditions.
RJR/Gleaner also confirmed that employees currently based at the North Street location will be relocated to the company’s facilities on Lyndhurst Road.