2024 World Athletics Relay From Paradise To Paris
2024 World Athletics Relay From Paradise To Paris
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Welcome to paradise.
Welcome to The Islands of The Bahamas.
We are delighted to have you aboard. You selected to travel with us, over so many options of air carriers. We appreciate the honor. At Bahamasair, the national flag carrier of The Bahamas, we are proud of our fifty-year-plus track record of connecting The Bahamas to the world and interconnecting the many island destinations within our extensive archipelago.
The Islands of The Bahamas is a destination of choice for so many travelers seeking a rejuvenating getaway. Last year, our destination achieved the record-breaking milestone of welcoming 8 million visitors to our shores. We look forward to continuing to roll out the red carpet to our guests, who will find in our islands a genuine welcome and warm hospitality.
The Bahamas boasts 16 unique island destinations, each with its own personality, offering distinctive experiences. Within the pages of Bahamasair’s inflight magazine, Up and Away, you will find everything you need to enjoy the best of the destination and delve a little deeper into the rich culture and exciting offerings of our islands.
In this issue of Up and Away, you are invited to view a kaleidoscope of life around the Islands of The Bahamas through the lens of top local and international photographers. Feature stories illustrated with superb photography will take you from the frontlines of the World Relays in May 2024 in Nassau to the sobering history of the downtown Pompey Museum, to the work of restoration of the famed candy-striped lighthouse in Hope Town, Abaco. Delight your senses in the scents and smells of locally crafted candles. Discover the creativity of local performing artists. Explore the islands’ wildlife. Learn new yoga poses and techniques with Bahayogi, and marvel at the dramatic landscapes of Long Island. These pages give you an immersive introduction to the diverse experience that are in The Bahamas.
This issue also brings you fascinating features, through the photographer’s lens, from the international destinations served by Bahamasair.
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Islands of The Bahamas. As we are still in the first quarter of 2024, I take this opportunity to wish you all the best for the months ahead.
Warm regards,
The Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister of The Bahamas and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation
Photograph Courtesy of Bahamas Information Services (BIS)
Sixteen unique islands and countless cays await, sprinkled across the world’s clearest waters. Find just what you need and do as much—or as little—as you want.
We take pride in showcasing the best of Bahamian hospitality, ensuring that your time with us is filled with the warmth, kindness, and unforgettable moments that define our islands.
Dear Travelers,
As we embark on a brand new year, it is with great pleasure and a sense of service that I greet you as Chairperson of Bahamasair. It is an exciting time to be part of this family, and more so, to serve you, our valued passengers who make our beautiful archipelago a destination of joy and discovery.
Up and Away is more than a magazine—it is our shared diary of travel, a curated collection of stories, and a gateway to the experiences awaiting you on these islands we call home. Our commitment extends beyond the expectations of traditional air travel; we aim to be Ambassadors of the enchanting Bahamian spirit, bridging the gap between the islands and making the wonders of our nation accessible to all.
At Bahamasair, we are more than aware of the integral role we play in the lifeblood of the Bahamas. We are the wings that connect families, boost businesses, and introduce explorers to our shores. Our dedication to fostering these connections is matched by our commitment to preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage that make our islands truly unique. We pledge to operate responsibly, ensuring that the paradise we share today will be here for generations to come.
To our cherished visitors, we offer more than just a ticket—we offer an invitation to become a part of our community, even if only for the duration of your stay. We take pride in showcasing the best of Bahamian hospitality, ensuring that your time with us is filled with the warmth, kindness, and unforgettable moments that define our islands.
This issue is imbued with our promise to you: a seamless, safe, and enjoyable travel experience. It celebrates the lush landscapes of the Bahamas, the vibrant culture that pulsates through our streets, and the tales of passengers who have turned their moments with us into memories.
We are on a journey together—one of growth, improvement, and excellence. We listen, learn, and adapt, all with the singular aim of enhancing your journey. Your voices guide our path forward, and your stories inspire our vision.
As you leaf through Up and Away, know that you are reading more than articles—you are glimpsing into the heart of our airline as well as the Bahamas. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve you and to be a part of your stories as you make your way to and from our islands.
Thank you for flying Bahamasair, where every flight is a promise to deliver you the best of the Bahamas, from our skies to your destination.
Warm regards
Ms. Tanya A. Pratt Chairperson of Bahamasair
—Chairperson Tanya A. Pratt
Photograph Courtesy of Bahamasair
“
...the skilled hands and trained eyes of photographers, stories will be told with superior optics.”—Capt. L. Roscoe Dames II, JP, Publisher
It is a new year and a fresh approach for Up and Away.
The Islands of The Bahamas are made up of 700 islands and cays. Those 700 islands and cays equate to the most indescribably breathtaking dimensions and shades of beauty and freedom. From the inception of our time as publishers of this magazine, we have shared aspects and secrets of The Bahamas through literary works. In this issue, we share the Islands from a different view - a photographer’s lens.
Through the skilled hands and trained eyes of photographers, stories will be told with superior optics - sharp, clear, detailed images that display a vibrant world.
As the national flag carrier, Bahamasair is your ticket to feel, smell, and touch each image in living color. Through its route system, passengers are connected to 20 international airports welcoming regularly scheduled flights that fly you into its jewels of 700 islands and cays from the Turks & Caicos Islands, Florida, Cuba, Haiti, and Raleigh, North Carolina.
In this Issue, you will learn about the World Relays, share the passion of the Director General of Tourism here in The Bahamas, feast on the pictorial cuisine of the Turks and Caicos, visit the last manual, kerosene-fueled, lighthouse in the world, take an Eco-tour in Cuba, bask in the beauty of the seascapes and landscapes, get the powdery sand on your feet, and above all take with you lasting images and memories of these islands where you made the right choice to visit on a Bahamasair flight, we don’t just fly here, it and its crew live here, and all enjoy bringing you here.
After you turn the last page of this issue, my wish is for you to take with you not only this free magazine but also the lasting images and memories of all the places where Bahamasair can take you. If you see it in Up and Away and you desire to visit it, Bahamasair will get you there safely.
May your stay be unforgettable, and may your memories be priceless.
Thank you for flying Bahamasair and on behalf of the Up and Away team, we wish you a Happy and Prosperous 2024.
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inFlight Magazine is published quarterly by IVORY GLOBAL MANAGEMENT LTD., for BAHAMASAIR, the National Flag Carrier of The Bahamas. All rights are reserved and reproduction in part or in whole is prohibited without the express written consent of IVORY GLOBAL MANAGEMENT LTD. All opinions expressed in UP and AWAY are solely those of the contributors. Every reasonable care has been taken neither UP and AWAY or its agents accept liability for loss or damage to photographs and material submitted to this magazine. Copyright 2024 by IVORY GLOBAL MANAGEMENT LTD.
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The World Relays are back in Nassau, The Bahamas 4th and 5th of May 2024, where breathtaking track speedsters, fabled Bahamian Cultural Events and Parties will be featured island-wide. You should be booking now to be in Nassau - this gorgeous Caribbean destination which has emerged as the venue for the 2024 World Relays, the final qualifying event for 32 countries, in pursuit of that elusive Gold at the Paris Olympics in July.
The Bahamas, regionally unmatched in hospitality, event hosting and its cavalcade of superpower-packed athletes on the international circuit, is re-igniting its ambitious international “Sports in Paradise” spectacular bid by hosting the World Relays here in Nassau over the early May weekend. Qualifiers here, go on to the main event - the Paris Olympiad.
Thousands of enthusiastic Bahamians will join thousands more sports/athletics fans and tourists; and the 1,600 international athletes and their supporting crew for the meet, which will be held at the Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium - a Class l internationally certified facility.
The Government of the Bahamas, in association with the World Athletics Federations and related bodies, is promising a heart-stopping, competitive event in the historic city of Nassau, the capital of this Island Nation renowned for its friendly rapport with visitors.
The Bahamas, fresh off its dazzling 50 th Anniversary of Independence celebrations last July is again getting prepped to throw down “the party of parties” as it showcases its athletic talent during this important “Last Leg” of
athletic competition before Paris in July. And The Bahamas will be more than ready as The World Relays were birthed here in 2014; and hosted again here in 2015 and 2017, with 2024 giving the country its fourth shot to impress and “show off we stuff.”
Many of the athletes who formerly competed here are poised to return as they feel it is still “Better In The Bahamas” having made new friends here while falling in love with the beauty of the country, its synergy, food, nightlife and the friendliness of Bahamians, a people unequalled in their zest and vibrancy in making guests feel comfortably welcome.
While the May 2024 event will only feature five athletic disciplines, namely, the Men’s and Women’s 4x100 metres and 4x400 metres and Mixed Relays, over 1,600 athletes are expected to compete. This has huge implications not only for sports but also for the country’s buoyant tourism industry. This year’s World Relays will see the top relay teams from last year’s World Championships held from 19th to 27th August in Budapest, Hungary.
There will be after-parties at local sports bars and watering hubs and nightclubs, tobacco and hookahs smoke bars; and at lounges and pubs which cater to every appetite and persuasion.
The Casinos at Atlantis and Baha Mar are waiting to welcome you. As Sports Betting is allowed in the Bahamas, visitors can place their wagers on the Kentucky Derby on May 4th as they enjoy the authentic horsepower of the world’s greatest athletes.
Aside from having ringside or front row tickets to this magnificent sporting event which brings sports and entertainment together, the necklace-like chain
of Islands which make up the Bahamian archipelago will be open for exploration by visitors, who may wish to take in “Swimming with the Pigs” in the pristine Exumas, tour Eleuthera, the historic landfall of the Eleutheran Adventurers during the 17th century, or take in the local charms which inspired Hemingway on the island of Bimini or the search there for the Fountain of Youth, and where Martin Luther King Jr. went to write his Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech. And then there are the beautiful Bahamian waters with its pristine beaches. One may also wish to explore the Blue Holes and the Tongue of the Ocean on the island of Andros.
Wherever you may go expect succulent native dishes, prepared with traditional local spices from throughout the diaspora as well as from Africa. No matter where you choose to go, Bahamasair, the national flag carrier, will get you there.
Stakeholders are promising the best Bahamian experience imaginable for visitors and the various competing teams, along with their coaching and supporting cast.
Commenting on the event, The Minister of Sports, The Honorable Mario Bowleg observed that the National Stadium where the Relays will be held and the Games Villages at Atlantis, Paradise Island and Breezes SuperClubs at Cable Beach will go beyond expectations to provide amenities, safety and comfort for the athletes and their supporting casts. “We want the world to adore and appreciate what they will see and experience at the Relays in The Bahamas. Even as they will enjoy the Olympics in Paris, they will remember the ambience, peace, and unity of the Bahamian people and how well we hosted the World Relays.”
Senator Randy Rolle, an Executive with the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Aviation, and Investments says: “We can maximize
our opportunities and capitalize on the benefits this event will bring. We are on target to claim our rightful place as the Sports Mecca of the region. It is a goal that Bahamians have signed on to and are eager to lay claim to in May 2024.”
Senator Rolle further noted that a fierce and vibrant marketing campaign blitz mounted by his Ministry will reap remarkable results on the success of the event.
Dr. Daniel Johnson, the former Minister of Youth, Sports & Culture under whose auspices the first three World Relays were held and who presently serves as the Chairman for the upcoming relays, noted that the hosting of these international events affords the Bahamian people an opportunity to “rollout” the nation’s Welcome Mat and Red Carpet. “You are going to feel the magnetism and incredible super-human power of the best athletes in the world on the track and in the stadium, and outside the stadium and all over this place Bahamians call home, there will be a sense of magic in the air which says, everyone is a winner, and we are so happy to have you, and you can only get that in the Bahamas.”
It is also noteworthy that The Bahamas also boasts an outstanding cadre of international athletes and personalities, who have served on some of the most prestigious athletic bodies in the world. Currently, former Bahamian Olympian Mr. Mike Sands serves as President of the North American, Central American, and Caribbean Association (NACAC), and Ms. Pauline Davis-Thompson, who sat on the International Amateur Athletic Federation/World Athletics Board of Directors. UA
Earlin Williams is a Bahamian Journalist, Novelist and Playwright.
The last of its kind restored to its iconic red-and-white grandeur.By Shavaughn Moss
It is the last manual, kerosene-fueled, intact, and complete light station on the planet, whose burner has not been electrified, and it is to be found in Hope Town, Elbow Cay, Abaco. This iconic red-and-white striped Elbow Reef Lighthouse, one of the island’s most visited attractions, is being restored to its grandeur.
Constructed in 1863, the historic hand-operated, kerosene-burning lighthouse has aided navigation for 160 years.
A lighthouse keeper must climb the red-and-white candy-striped tower that is eighty feet high with 101 steps to the lantern room floor at the top of the tower to light the kerosene-fueled burner by hand. He then has to hand-crank a weight
system that slowly drops to keep the lantern turning, much like an old grandfather clock.
Kerosene feeds the flame in the old burner, and a massive Fresnel (pronounced “freh-Nell”) lens system projects a powerful beam of light visible up to seventeen nautical miles away, helping sea vessels avoid the shallow waters and the vibrant coral reef off Elbow Cay. The Fresnel lens rotates to generate a group of five white flashes every 15 seconds, 12-feet above sea level, to warn mariners away from the Elbow Reef. Kerosene feeds the flame in the burner that generates 325,000-candlepower light.
The light station was a crucial navigational aid, safeguarding crew, and cargo from shipwrecks in both the 1800s and 1900s.
A source of civic pride, the lighthouse connects the past and present. It is a shining example of The Bahamas’ maritime history. Normal weathering and wear,
compounded by the devastating force of Hurricane Dorian in 2019, took a toll on this cultural treasure.
The Elbow Reef Lighthouse Society (ERLS), a Bahamian non-profit organization has been preserving historical elements of this light station, including its grounds, machinery, and parts.
Its goal is to keep the lighthouse hand-wound (manual) and kerosene-burning, preserving an important economic and cultural link to the past. The Society is responsible for ensuring this iconic landmark remains true to its historical past as a fully-functioning, non-automated aid to navigation, remaining true to the period in which it was constructed.
Originally, Elbow Reef Lighthouse was maintained by the Bahamas Lighthouse Preservation Society. This group, together with the Bahamian Government worked to prevent the automation of the Lighthouse and preserve its historical significance. In 2013, this Society was reorganized and renamed Elbow Reef Lighthouse Society.
The Society is the recognized custodian for the Elbow Reef Lighthouse’s upkeep and preservation, overseeing all matters of restoration and reconstruction of the light tower, outbuildings, dock, and pier. The Society fosters relationships with artisans and suppliers to utilize best practices when replacing materials no longer in production and replicating manufacturing methods no longer in practice.
The Society worked on the outbuildings after Dorian, mobilizing shortly after the devastating storm, focusing on rebuilding the keepers’ quarters, and the dock and reroofing all light station outbuildings.
In early 2021, the United States Embassy, in Nassau, partnered with the Elbow Reef Lighthouse Society and the Elbow Reef Foundation to restore the landmark. The Elbow Reef Lighthouse Restoration project was made possible by a grant of $472,000 from the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP).
Work on the restoration project began in August 2022 on the exterior, starting at the top with outside lantern and metal works restoration – scaffolding was set on the iconic tower, and assessment and repair to the weathervane, canopy, gutters, astragals, walking grates, lantern walls, and hand railings were done. Gutter pipes and water buckets were installed. On the inside, assessment and repairs were made to vents and vent grates, floor grates, staircase, windows, and door handles.
The second phase of the project entailed stripping the lighthouse tower to repair the masonry and painting it. The iconic lighthouse was “denuded” and stripped of its iconic stripes with a non-chemical sand/vapor abrasive blasting technique. Masonry faults were fixed, and the tower pressure washed, primed with paint, and pressure washed with fresh water before the final application of new paint.
The third phase of the project entailed the replacement of the slate floor. New slate floors were fabricated and replaced one section at a time, and rust removal was performed on steel beams to neutralize rust before painting.
The fourth phase of the project, which was anticipated to be completed at the end of 2023, involving the operational system restoration, including making repairs to the kerosene storage tanks and distribution system, aligning the gear weights
inside the interior column, and cleaning the inside of the weight tube, assessing lens support system, and completion of the soot and ventilation stack cleaning.
Designed and fabricated by Trinity House – the official authority for lighthouses in England, Wales, the Channel Islands, and Gibraltar – Elbow Reef was one of 11 British Imperial Lighthouses commissioned between 1836 and 1887 to be built as remote outposts in the Bahamas Islands.
In 1973, oversight of the 11 Bahamian lighthouses passed from the British Imperial Lighthouse Service to The Bahamas Port Department. Two had already been decommissioned and between 1973 and 2012, the other lighthouses were automated – except at Elbow Reef and San Salvador. The Society members are the custodians entrusted with the ongoing preservation and restoration of the lighthouse and light station.
The lighthouse and nine outbuildings, including two keepers’ quarters are historic buildings – built between 1862 and 1864.
The members of the Society work to ensure that Elbow Reef Light Station continues to be a gift to the world by staying true to its history and original beauty.
The lighthouse is open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. UA
“I went from waiting to get an appointment to having one right away – the day after I called.”
Shanique B. Breast Cancer Patient
At City of Hope®, hope isn’t just a name. It’s the foundation on which we’ve built our global leadership in cancer research, treatment and prevention. It’s our motivation for conducting leading-edge research, delivering innovations from lab to patient with lifesaving speed and pioneering technologies that have led to cancer treatments used worldwide.
And for cancer patients living in the Bahamas, it’s one more reason to choose City of Hope for your care. From your first contact with us, we’ll work to make your experience as convenient and stress-free as possible. With local support provided by our Nassau-based cancer navigation team, we’ll help handle the logistics, such as collecting your medical records. From your first visit, our multidisciplinary team of cancer experts will work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your individual needs and goals—treating not just the cancer but you, the whole patient.
Call now to make an appointment
1-242-327-0490
• cancercenter.com
he Bahamas, a nation of stunning beauty, tropical allure, and endless adventure, beckons travelers with its vibrant culture and natural wonders. As we delve into this tropical paradise, we had the privilege of speaking with the visionary at the helm of Bahamian tourism, the Director General of Tourism herself, Mrs. Latia Duncombe. Join us as she accents the obvious and unravels the secrets that make The Bahamas a unique and irresistible destination.
Imagine yourself on a pristine, powder-white beach, the crystal-clear waters lapping at your feet. This is The Bahamas, where every day feels like a dream come true. Director General Latia Duncombe starts by emphasizing the sheer beauty and diversity of the 700 islands and cays that make up this remarkable archipelago.
“Our islands cater to all kinds of travelers,” Mrs. Duncombe enthuses. “From the bustling excitement of Nassau and Paradise Island to the secluded, untouched paradises like The Exumas and The Abacos, we have something for everyone. Whether you’re a family looking for adventure, a couple seeking romance, or a solo traveler in search of serenity, The Bahamas offers it all.”
The Bahamian islands boast a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, from lush tropical forests to enchanting underwater worlds. “One of our biggest draws is the stunning marine life,” says Mrs. Duncombe. “Our clear, warm waters are home to incredible biodiversity, making The Bahamas a mecca for divers and snorkelers. The world-famous Andros Barrier Reef, Dean’s Blue Hole, and thrilling shark dives are just a few of our underwater treasures.”
Moreover, the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, a no-fishing zone spanning over 176 square miles, showcases The Bahamas’ dedication to preserving its pristine environment. “We are committed to sustainable tourism,” Mrs. Duncombe emphasizes. “The natural beauty that surrounds us is our most valuable asset, and we intend to keep it that way for generations to come.”
Beyond its natural wonders, The Bahamas offers a rich tapestry of culture and history. “Our vibrant Bahamian culture is something truly special,” the Director General explains. “From the rhythmic sounds of Junkanoo and the lively annual homecomings, festivals, and regattas, to the warm hospitality of our people, travelers get to immerse themselves in an authentic, friendly culture that’s unlike any other.”
Visitors can explore historic towns, like charming Dunmore Town on Harbour Island, or stroll through Nassau’s colonial architecture. “The Bahamas is a place where history meets the modern world - a hybrid of European and American architectural and cultural influences,” Mrs. Duncombe says. “You can enjoy a cornucopia of pleasures in one trip.”
Food plays a pivotal role in the enchanting world of Bahamian tourism, tantalizing the taste buds of travelers. The Bahamas is also renowned for its delectable cuisine, which reflects the diverse influences that have shaped this tropical paradise. The flavors of The Bahamas are a culinary voyage that embodies the spirit of the islands. “There is as much food to explore as there are islands,” she shares. Visitors can savor fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and savory dishes like Bahamian stew fish, as they embark on a culinary adventure that mirrors the warm and welcoming hospitality of the locals. Whether it is a crab dish from Andros or a mutton dish from Long Island, exploring the food scene in The Bahamas is an immersive cultural experience, connecting travelers with the heart and soul of the archipelago.
The Bahamas is not just one destination; it is an archipelago offering visitors diverse experiences. Director General Duncombe encourages travelers to go beyond a single island and explore multiple island destinations, each with its distinct charm. “Island hopping is a must,” she says. “Whether you’re exploring Abaco or Exuma serene beauty of their cays; discovering land caves in Eleuthera or the underwater caves of Long Island; or experiencing the lush, green landscapes of Inagua - home to one of the world’s largest flamingo populations, each island offers something unique.”
The warmth of the Bahamian people is what often leaves a lasting impression on visitors. “Our people are our greatest asset,” Mrs. Duncombe emphasizes. “From my childhood in Abaco, I could remember connecting with visitors and it
was always second nature to welcome them with open arms, treating them like family. It is this engendered sense of belonging that sets The Bahamas apart. It is also why our People to People program remains a success decades after its inception.”
The Director General of Tourism wraps up our conversation by inviting travelers to experience the magic of The Bahamas for themselves. “ The Bahamas offers the ultimate getaway, with its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm, heartfelt welcome. We are always excited to share our paradise with you.”
“As we continue to embrace new paradigms in tourism post-COVID-19, The Ministry of Tourism knows that being able to adapt and pivot to global trends and the emerging needs of travelers are paramount,” Mrs. Duncombe asserts. “We will cater to an array of preferences ranging from boutique hotels to mega resorts; from fishing lodges to yachts and provide niche markets for visitors who traverse these islands whether by air or sea.”
Indeed, The Bahamas offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural richness, and authentic experiences, all set against the backdrop of stunning landscapes. It is a destination where imagination meets reality, and the Director General of Tourism, Latia Duncombe, is proud to champion it as one of the world’s most distinctive and inviting destinations. So, if you are ready for an island escape, set your course for The Bahamas and let its waves of enchantment wash over you and immerse you in an unforgettable experience.
Mrs. Latia Duncombe is the seventh Director General in the Ministry’s 50+ years of existence and only the third female to serve in this role. She began her career at the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation in 2021 as Deputy Director General; served as Acting Director General from January 2022, and was appointed Director General of Tourism on 16 January 2023. UA
Passion and kinetic energy roll off Jeff Biege like the waves he loves to photograph. A surfer, scuba diver, and kiteboarder, Jeff has channeled his love of the natural world, and specifically the ocean, into fine art photography. His experiences have propelled him to use photography for non-profit and conservation efforts, working with organizations like Jupiter Inlet Foundation, Loggerhead Marine Life Center, The Surfrider Foundation, Maui Marine Institute, Share the Stoke Foundation, and Hobe Sound Nature Center.
Born in Kansas and growing up in the Midwest, Jeff got his love of nature from his father who was a Professor of Entomology. From age 10, he spent his summers with his dad in Southern California, learning to snorkel and surf and developing a deep affinity for the ocean. While visiting a friend in South Florida, he fell in love with the warm clear waters. He has made Florida his home ever since.
Jeff’s early dream was to be a surf photographer, shooting for the print publication, Surfer Magazine. The equipment was cumbersome and heavy, balanced on a surfboard, in 10-15 foot waves, while the photographer hung on to the board shooting. As film images gave way to digital images and print publications gave way to digital publications, Jeff reinvented himself. He tried his hand at portrait, wedding, commercial, and landscape photography, all around the world. In 2015, he landed in fine art photography, in South Florida.
Quickly realizing that images draw an audience in to hear a message, Jeff began using his photographs to tell the story of ocean conservation. His love of reptiles led him to photograph sea turtles. Since sea turtles are the most beloved marine creatures, they make excellent subjects for conservation topics. Multiple conservation organizations use his images to attract people to their messages.
As Jeff embraced the digital photographic world, he saw the fine art potential of the ocean. This leads him to his second favorite nautical subject, waves. Using his skills as a surf photographer, he captures stunning images of the curl or inside of a wave. This action of the waves happens so quickly he uses a 1/1000 of a second shutter speed. He applies the power of digital color processing to create an artistic expression of something impossible for the human eye to see.
Driven by the desire to photograph wildlife in its natural habitat, Jeff goes to great lengths to be in the environment with the animals in a way that is non-threatening and not invasive. Whether it is to be in a Florida freshwater spring at dawn on a 32-degree morning, photographing manatees in their natural environment, or walking the beach at 2:00 in the morning to see sea turtle hatchlings making their way to the ocean, being with the animals is as important to him as photographing the animals.
To purchase any of Jeff Biege’s work visit his website at www.jeffbiege.com. If you are visiting South Florida in the next few months, you can see his work live at the Hobe Sound Art Festival, February 3rd and 4th, 2024 or the Stuart Art Festival, February 24th and 25th, 2024, or the Art by the Sea in Juno Beach, March 9th and 10th, 2024. UA
sultry, late summer night in the Turks and Caicos Islands doesn’t need a Cinderella moment to be magical, but for one weekend in October, a wand is waved and out of the proverbial pumpkin pops a deliciously dazzling array of culinary experiences spread across several luxurious restaurants and resorts in Providenciales for a tasty transformation destined for a happy ending.
The latest edition of the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival in the Turks and Caicos Islands made many dreams come true as the 13th year proved to be anything but unlucky for homegrown chefs. Eight of them, including the country’s official Culinary Ambassador, Nikita ‘Chef Nik’ Skippings, reveled in the opportunity to step into the limelight for hundreds of hungry foodies, who showed up for a true taste of the islands.
“What we had was seven of the country’s best local chefs showcasing what Turks and Caicos have to offer in culinary including hash shark, conch fritters, souses, stew conch, lobster salads, the Salt Cay candies and the crème cakes, everything you love to experience from the Turks and Caicos best,” explained Chef Nik.
Chef Nik is more than a man on a mission in the kitchen; he is a culinary king in the Turks and Caicos who manages to fuse the fine insights of gourmet and elegant dining into island favorites with undeniable panache. Fiercely an island boy, with his cooking chops gained from tiny Salt Cay in the southern side of the Turks and Caicos chain, the owner of Crackpot Kitchen roadside restaurant has managed to take pigtails and grits to commendable heights and faraway nations, with rave reviews.
The restauranteur is also well known for identifying and supporting the best hometown cooks. For his evening under the stars, Chef Nik selected seven of them to share in CFWF2023 TCI Food Festival at Crackpot Kitchen.
Listed on the playbill for the first-of-its-kind showcase, were: Chef Nardie of Avita’s Catering; Chef Harvey of Seafood Hub; Chef Cox of Harbour House Eatery; Chef Deanna of D’s Catering; Chef Higgs of Nathan’s Cheesecakes; Chef Ingrid of Inky’s Sweets & Treats and Chef Jamika of Chili’s Take Out.
“The bomb-diggity; that is how this food tastes here at Harbour House; lobster fritters, Harbour Shark fingers, and scallop potatoes – my favorite – was delicious!” said one woman, when asked about the spot where she was parked; still smacking her lips and licking her fingers after dining with Chef Harvey.
The island foods were served tapas style, and the reviews were stellar. However, for this festival there was so much more than eating going on. It brought the community together for an unforgettable night which highlighted the heritage and enormous talent embedded within the Turks and Caicos.
Islanders and guests were enraptured by the euphoria of the setting. It was that striking skyline of Grace Bay just off to the north, creating a sparkling backdrop or maybe it was Chef Nik’s food truck-styled restaurant, in the open air, boasting his bold black and gold colors which gelled so well with the energy of the district.
The food, the folks, and the fun put everyone on an even keel especially when the pulsating rhythm of We Funk Junkanoo group entered the space adding to the live band excitement of A+ Band Boys, Enid Capron Primary School children and QBand Lynks Band Boys.
“It was really something! Even Premier Missick was dancing when the junkanoo hit. It was a great way to start the weekend and what a way to end the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s State of the Industry Conference. So many people from around the region were in Provo; CFWF was the perfect finale!”
Each year, the CFWF team crafts something new. It is an awesome challenge to aim to outdo or to measure up to the previous years’ experience. Keeping it exciting is incredibly daunting, organizers often admit, but with so much commitment to the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival in the Turks and Caicos Islands and a clear flair for ensuring the islands remain renowned for exquisite dining, it is a sure bet outstanding reviews will be the reward for many years to come.
The opening event, staged at the Wine Cellar, was the traditional ‘Meet the Wine Maker’ soiree and featured guest Stephano Benini of Italy’s Frescobaldi Family. On night two, a special treat would be the prestigious addition of The Macallan; a legendary flavor in this “single malt Scotch whiskey brand that was founded in 1824 in Speyside, Scotland” and it was among the palatable pleasing features at the Kickoff Cocktail Party held at the Estate Pool of the Grace Bay Club.
Friday featured the annual Women of Wine luncheon, hosted by Althea Ewing, the lead at the Wine Cellar, based in Providenciales. The luxurious buffet was staged at a private villa, La Dolce Vita, mere hours before the Food Festival was uncorked at Crackpot Kitchen.
The Crackpot Kitchen mantra is, “Eat Like a Local” and certainly, the organizers of the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival – Grace Bay Resorts and the Wine Cellar - embraced the concept with these celebrated native cooks and bakers, and confectionary in a sumptuous spotlight.
The annual Caribbean Food and Wine Festival spent Saturday with guests at a Wine Pairing Experience at Grace’s Cottage of the Point Grace Resort; a Culinary Trends Symposium which was an invite-only session and the highlight of the weekend: Four-Course Wine Dinner and Cocktails featuring Frescobaldi Wines & The Macallan at the picturesque Infiniti Restaurant of Grace Bay Club. Attendees slid into Sunday with an easy escape to the Vita; located at the all-new Rock House resort residences which are carved into the hills of Providenciales and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
The Caribbean Food & Wine Festival is all about introducing new flavors and forging new friendships in the beautiful spaces, which have made Providenciales Turks and Caicos one of the most sought-after destinations in the region. To have the island’s chefs, always as a key part of the weekend, pays homage to past generations who long believed in the potential of these islands and that their children deserve to be a part of the happily ever after. UA
Lyndah Wells is one of the top wedding photographers in The Bahamas, with an impressive portfolio of beaming brides and grooms during one of the most important days of their lives. The couples who entrust Lyndah to photograph their wedding day love her artistic vision and eye for capturing the beauty, raw emotion, and intimacy of saying “I do,” but she admits that she got into the field by chance.
When Lyndah moved to Grand Bahama nearly 20 years ago, she had an interest in design and dreamt of opening her lighting studio - a dream that would not come full circle until 2022 when she opened the Light Worx Creative Studio in downtown Freeport. She initially started a part-time job with Dave Mackey at Bahamas Weekly, as an assistant, holding reflectors and helping wherever she could. She did not even have her camera at the time, but Dave showed her the ropes of photography - even letting her use his equipment for her first few shots. From there, word got around about Lyndah’s unique approach and her career began to build momentum due to word-of-mouth recommendations.
Lyndah has spent the last two decades carefully honing her craft and building a reputation in the photography community as a trusted and respected name in the field. However, her biggest piece of advice for budding photographers is to seek the guidance of seasoned professionals. “I would highly recommend getting
yourself a mentor. Get somebody who has experience, who has made mistakes, who has been through it, who can push you and see your vision even before you do.”
In addition to hiring a planner to help ensure the wedding day is as smooth, seamless, and easy as possible for couples, Lyndah also suggests that brides and grooms find a photographer whose work they love, and then trust the vision of the artist behind the lens.
“Trust your photographer - there is no point in booking a photographer and then asking a photographer to do something that is completely not their style, something that you have not seen them do, have not seen them show on their website. Trust them to create the best images for you and try not to micromanage them.”
Lyndah understands the weight and importance of her role during a couple’s wedding day, and she takes pride in capturing moments that will be cherished for years to come. “A lot of people think that a wedding is just one big party, but it is not. It might be the last time that your family is all together, and those photographs are gonna mean so much to you.” UA
“The Revolution introduced me to art, and in turn, art introduced me to the Revolution.”
— Albert Einstein
When you enter the wooden glass-pane doors of the Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation on Bay Street, in the capital city of Nassau, prepare to do battle – or at least prepare to experience an interactive, imaginative, and multi-sensory one.
The quaint, picturesque museum is housed circumspectly in the historic, mural-infused, 18th-century Vendue House (or “The Bourse” as it was known), a modern-day iteration of a local marketplace where West African slaves were sold and traded until the mid-19th century when they achieved their freedom in The Bahamas on August 1st, 1834 (Emancipation Day).
The Pompey Museum is both a symbol of and testament to a painful yet purposeful time in our nation’s history where revolution and resilience unintentionally intersected and single-handedly inspired our collective identity as a people.
The museum is named in honor of Pompey, the infamous, fearless, enslaved warrior who lived on the Rolle Plantation in Steventon, Exuma, one of the islands of The Bahamas, and led a courageous slave revolt on that island in 1830.
The Pompey Museum brilliantly captures the visitor’s imagination and interest in the intricacies and influences of slave resistance and rebellion in The Bahamas as a “call and response” to the greater historical movement
of slave rebellions that occurred in the British West Indies between the abolition of the British slave trade in 1807 to the emancipation of enslaved persons in The Bahamas in 1834.
The metal and wooden artifacts, manacled remnants of that bygone era of human trafficking, carnage, bondage, and depravity for transactional means and economic profit, are displayed in a small but creative space. Empaneled by life-size storyboards, this historical museum unapologetically
pays homage to the courage, determination, and resilience of the human spirit in the face of the ubiquitous slave trade.
The double transportation slave collars, branding irons, crab-styled runaway collars, slave ship replicas, and the wooden, straw, and sisal creations of enslaved Africans brought to The Bahamas and other islands of the British West Indies against their will are artistically displayed in glass showcases. Brilliantly curated, the exhibition encourages the visitor to not only experience the exigencies of slave life but empathize with their struggle for self-determination and freedom.
Of note, at the Pompey Museum is the replica of the American slaving schooner, Peter Mowell, whose wreck in July of 1860, along the shore of Lynyard Cay in the northeastern Bahamas near the island of Abaco, while attempting to transport 400 African slaves, represented an historic milestone in the unintentional progression of slavery to indentured servitude in The Bahamas, twenty-six years after the abolition of slavery.
The display of the Peter Mowell imbues a sense of foreboding and hope for the lives of those enslaved persons who experienced its adventurous
voyage and later became one of the first immigrant classes in The Bahamas who helped to build strong communities and influence local cultural norms, values, and more.
So many of the artifacts in the museum embody the stories of suffering, survival, and eventually triumph amid adversity, uncertainty, and unwanted human transplantation. These stories collectively enrapture the visitor, as interactive screens assist in the revelation of the time of slavery and its impact and influence on modern Bahamian society.
A beautiful bust of a Black man who could be Pompey sits near the entrance of the museum, transfixed in time and space as a symbolic reminder of the torture and tenacity he had to endure to bring about revolution and change to an inhumane system of oppression and degradation. As a visitor to the Pompey Museum, one cannot help but embrace the essence of this visual homage to the young warrior for whom the museum gets its identity and significance in today’s modern sociopolitical and economic context.
It is no accident that the Pompey Museum, which began operation as a museum in 1992, is housed in Vendue House downtown Bay Street, the main thoroughfare and shopping district in the city of Nassau. Open Monday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and closed on Sundays and holidays, the Pompey Museum is both an important curatorial repository and a reminder of our rich Bahamian history and cultural heritage.
It also acts as a remnant of the tenacity, leadership, and resilience of a warrior slave named Pompey on the island of Exuma, who stood fearlessly and triumphantly like a tree planted near water to fight against and withstand the adversities and inhumanity of slavery and would not be moved. UA
‘The airline that makes dreams come true for its crew.’By Keesha Claudia Bethell
Photographs Courtesy Of Bahamasair, Dwayne
Omar Mackey, Captain Stubbs, Nekera Braynen, and Brent BurrowsOver the past 50 years, Bahamasair has earned the badge of honor as the national flag carrier of The Bahamas. The airline has been the air bridge connecting the Islands of The Bahamas and the Islands to the World. As of 2024, Bahamasair has touched the runways of 13 Bahamian Airports, Cuba, Haiti, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks & Caicos Islands, four stops in Florida - Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando and Palm Beach - and in Raleigh, North Carolina. Not bad for a country the size of a speck on the World Map and a big view of that world.
Over the past half-century, the airline has garnered the admiration of Bahamians young and old. For three such people, Nekera Braynen, Brent Burrows, and Captain Joel Stubbs employment at Bahamasair is a dream that became a reality.
Nekera Braynen works behind the scenes. She is the brain that makes the airline tick, making the airline available to passengers. At the ticket counter, there is Brent Burrows. He is ‘Mr. Customer Service With a Smile.’ Then on board a Bahamasair aircraft, there’s Captain Joel Stubbs - he is the one at the controls, piloting passengers to their destination along the Bahamasair routes.
Each one of these outstanding employees has a story of her and his own.
As a child, Nekera and her family traveled on one airline and one airline only - Bahamasair.
“Growing up, I only flew on Bahamasair, and I decided that when I became an adult, I would work for this place,” she says. “It’s the national glag carrier of my country and it’s something that I wanted to be a part of.” Beginning this year Nekera fills the managerial seat of Pricing, Inventory, and Revenue. It is a position that she worked hard to get and takes very seriously.
The Junkanooer
Junkanoo runs through Nekera’s veins. Junkanoo, lauded as the greatest expression of Bahamian culture, has been a part of Nekera for so long that she cannot remember life without it. She currently sits on the Executive Board of Roots Junkanoo Group.
“I have missed Junkanoo twice - during my pregnancies with my sons,” she explains. “There is something about being a part of the very thing that represents your country’s culture. I cannot put into words how it makes me feel. It is in me, and it is an honor to be a part of it.”
Nekera is a proud member of the Eastern Stars St. Martha’s Chapter No.6 of Prince Hall Affiliated, Nassau, Bahamas. The Eastern Stars are the female
counterpart of Prince Hall Freemasonry. The Eastern Stars conduct philanthropic and community service activities while supporting the work of the male Lodges. Nekera prides herself in being a part of what she refers to as a “prestigious community organization.”
“The Lodge has given me a deeper appreciation for loyalty and protecting loved ones,” she says.
In no way, shape, or form does Nekera look a day over 21. So, what is the secret to her fountain of youth?
“My sons keep me young,” she chuckles. They are something else. But I do not mind because they are my boys. Her eldest is a college student and her baby is 10 years old.
“They give me quite the time,” she laughs. “I love my boys and I wouldn’t trade them for the world.”
“Love what you do. It is okay to work and socialize. It is all about balance. Know when to turn off work mode and turn on socialize mode.
Brent Burrows is the Senior Customer Service Agent and goes the extra mile for passengers with his signature warm smile with the unforgettable “Brent Experience.” At the Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA), Brent is the first smile you see at the ticket counter and the last you will see before departing for your destination on the Bahamasair route. He has been living his childhood dream for 15 years.
“I waited 25 years to get here,” he explains. “From my first day in 2008, I have loved every moment of every single day working here.”
If you ask Brent how he thinks his colleagues would describe him, here is what he has to say:
“They would say, ‘Oh Brent. You can always count on him for a smile, and a little laughter if you are feeling down. I can always count on Brent. If you were not feeling good at one part of the day, I can always count on Brent to brighten up my day and make me cry from laughing so much. Brent is Brent and Brent will be Brent.”’
Ask Brent’s co-workers about him: They smile, laugh, and endorse Brent’s thoughts.
This whiz in the kitchen is the biggest food critic you will ever meet. He loves to eat and of course, the kitchen.
He reminisces about his childhood when he watched his mother cook in the family kitchen.
“I was just fascinated,” he says. “While the other children were playing in the yard, I was beside my mother learning how to cook.”
Soups are his favorite, particularly Crab Soup and Okra Soup. From Brent, white rice must be served to complete these dishes.
“Soup is hearty and filling,” he says while pondering over the possibility of cooking a pot after his interview.
The question here is what is the secret to Brent’s scrumptious soups? Thankfully, he does not mind sharing the scoop.
“Other than the love, fresh tomatoes for the thick texture and goat pepper which brings the flavor together with its spice.”
For five years he has been the caregiver of his big sister and makes it his business to ensure that she is well taken care of.
“I moved her into my home,” he explains. “I love my sister dearly. She took care of me when I was little so now, I am taking care of her. I know she would have done the same for me. I use empathy to take good care of her.
When Brent leaves work, he goes straight home to check on his sister. On his days off, they go for drives along the island to take in the views and indulge in Bahamian cuisine.
Caring for his sister has changed the way Brent manages passengers. “When I see wheelchair passengers, I see my sister,” he says with a smile on his face. “That is why I have patience with them. I give them extra kindness, warmth, and extra assistance.”
Despite challenges, keep a smile on your face. Choose to be positive and you have the power to make your day a beautiful one.
Within ten seconds of talking with Captain Joel Stubbs, you will not doubt that the man has a passion for flying in the sky. How the Boeing 737 and Training Captain riddles off aircraft models is mind-boggling. He has piloted just about all Bahamasair’s fleet since joining the Airline 35 years ago.
“I was always fascinated by aircrafts,” he explains. “I did my research to get a full understanding of the field. In the end, there was no doubt of where my career path would lead me.”
Captain Stubbs’ parents did not support his dream. His father wanted him to enter the medical field. His mother could not bear the thought of her son dying in a plane crash. They refused to support and finance his career. But a determined Joel Stubbs did not let that deter him.
“If my parents weren’t going to support me, I was going to find a way to get there,” he says.
He cleaned carpets and grocery store floors to save money to enroll in flight school. Eventually, his parents had no choice, but to support him.
The rest is history. Joel became Captain Joel, and he has been soaring in aviation ever since.
He was once described as the biggest back in the history of bodybuilding “Joel 747”.
He was the overall winner of the Central American & Caribbean Championships in the early 2000s, which gave him a Professional Card and the opportunity internationally.
“I participated in 12 Championships: Australia, the U.S.A., Canada, Denmark, and Sweden,” he explains. “I have had guest appearances all around the world in Spain, the United Kingdom, and Caribbean regions.
In 2012, Captain Joel stopped competing. Today, he is giving back to the sport and currently sits as President of The Bahamas Bodybuilding and Wellness Federation.
For 40 years, he has been playing the organ and keyboard in his church on Sunday mornings.
He also plays the trumpet and bass guitar. He hints that there are other instruments under his belt, but he is tight-lipped about those.
With patience, support, and time management, you can balance life and achieve your goals.
The stories of Nekera, Brent, and Joel are those of resilience to accomplish their dreams, as well as dedication to the national flag carrier of their country.
Bahamasair has a slogan: “We don’t just fly here, we live here.” For the trio, that slogan is powerful because it builds expectations for the Bahamian experience, loyalty to the country, and the responsibility to tell the story of The Bahamas, one Bahamasair flight at a time through the way logistics, stellar customer service, and the trust of ensuring passengers arrive safely to their respective destinations on the Bahamasair route.
When you consider all of that, one may consider adding a two-liner to the airline’s slogan. Perhaps: “We don’t just fly here, we live here, we bring The Bahamas to you, and we make dreams come true.” UA
have called Orlando home for over 10 years, except for the two years (2019-2021) I lived in Beijing, China. Living in the capital of one of the largest Asian countries in the world changed me. My time in China gave me an insatiable appetite for adventure, spicy lamb skewers, and exotic tropical fruit. I learned how to speak basic Mandarin, manage chopsticks, and properly pleat dumplings. By the end of my time there, I was brave enough to ride a bike through rush hour traffic, get a (painful) foot massage, and sing a Chinese ballad with a neighbor. All the bold flavors, sights, and sounds gave me an adrenaline rush, while at the same time stretching me beyond my comfort zone.
When I came back from China, I craved the flavors and excitement I had lived with for two years. Exploring Orlando’s Asian markets, restaurants, and festivals helps me relive some of the memories I have from my time abroad. You will find most of the Asian and Pacific Islander businesses in the Mills 50 area and Chinatown, about 15 minutes west of downtown, near Colonial Drive and Kirkman Road. Why not visit a few places while you are in town? And do not forget to bring your shopping bag and your camera – there is so much to see and do.
Shopping at the fresh markets in China was a kaleidoscope of colors; fresh seasonal fruit, vegetables, spices, and flowers spilled out of baskets and booths. Everything was so flavorful, fragrant, and inexpensive.
Thankfully, Orlando has several Asian supermarkets that recreate this shopping experience. A trip to Lotte Plaza Market, just west of downtown or Chinatown’s Enson Market is like escaping to Asia for the day. With the onsite food courts, you can have a Korean Bibimbap bowl for lunch, or try some famous Beijing-style roast duck.
There are aisles of snacks, freezers filled with dumplings, and onsite bakeries. I love the sound of different languages, the fragrant smells of Asian food, and the selection of groceries that cannot be found at just any supermarket. Pick up some sauces, spices, and even some fresh fish. Never had a rambutan? Do not be intimidated by this red prickly fruit. Simply break them open and discover the delicious juicy, perfumy fruit inside.
I never knew I had such strong feelings about eggplant until I moved to China. A hot wok, garlic, ginger, and some chiles transform this ho-hum purple vegetable into a crave-worthy dish. Add in some red and green peppers and Orlando’s
Chuan Lu Garden’s
Flavor Eggplant is as beautiful on the plate as it is in your mouth.
Barbecue lamb skewers are a staple street food in many parts of China. For a buck or two each, you’ll get freshly grilled skewers of smokey meat dusted with cumin and red pepper. Some popular joints will hand them over by the dozen, and just count the empty skewers to tally your bill at the end of the meal. Chuan Lu Garden’s meaty lamb skewers are the next best thing to being there.
One of my favorite things to do in Beijing was to get a massage. Bodywork was not something reserved for high-end spas. For as little as $6 I could get a decent rubdown at the blind massage parlor, which provided an income for the seeing-impaired massage therapists who worked there. If I wanted to splurge, for $40 I got an hour massage with soft lighting, scented lotion, and soothing music. Somewhere in between was the ubiquitous foot massage, which was a 30-minute torture treatment that felt so good when it was over.
There are plenty of high-end day spas in Orlando, but my favorite place for an everyday massage is I Wellness Center in the Mills 50 district. The rooms are clean and basic, and they tailor your treatment to your body’s needs. If you have spent too much time on your feet at the theme parks, an herbal foot soak or reflexology might be just what you need. They also offer acupuncture, cupping, facials, and traditional Chinese medicine treatments.
If you have never had bubble tea, it is time to change that. Orlando has dozens of “boba” tea shops. Boba, or bubble tea refers to a sweet, milk tea or fruity drink with tapioca pearls that originated in Taiwan. There are so many flavors and toppings to choose from, from mango and strawberry to matcha and red bean. My favorite is tiger milk tea, like this one from the Tea Spot in the Mills 50 district. It is named after the distinctive stripes of brown sugar syrup drizzled inside the cup. A handful of boba pearls at the bottom makes this a sweet, chewy treat.
Five Flavor Eggplant from Chuan Lu Garden Restaurant Spicy Lamb Skewers from Chun Lu Garden Restaurant Five Tiger Sugar Boba Milk Tea from The Tea Spot Massage Room at I Wellness Spa
There is something about red lanterns that make even the darkest night light up with magic. I never got tired of walking the narrow alleys in Beijing lined with lanterns. During the holidays, major streets, hotels, and office building would be lit up with hundreds of lanterns. Here in Orlando, there are several festivals that bring back those memories, including the Asian Lantern Festival at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. Held November through January, this evening walk-through exhibit brings the zoo alive with lanterns of dragons, flowers, pandas, and more. Walking through the zoo with royal red lanterns swaying overhead brought back the feelings of delight I experienced in China. And who does not love pandas? Even the panda-shaped lanterns capture their friendly, playful spirit.
Orchids are popular throughout Asia for their beauty, elegance, and fragrance. Costing just $3-4 each in Beijing, I filled my apartment with these elegant flowers. Chinese scholar Confucius praised orchids for growing in dark forests where no one noticed their beauty, and they are often a symbol of virtue. Orchids appear in Chinese poetry, calligraphy, and paintings. I consider them an affordable luxury, especially when I buy them at Orlando’s Asian markets, where the prices are often lower than area flower shops. Dong-A Supermarket in the Mills 50 district had these purple orchids for $14 each recently.
Orlando is a melting pot of cultures. The Mills 50 and Chinatown areas are filled with exotic colors and flavors that make it easy to create and photograph your own Orlando Asian adventure. UA
native son of Rock Sound, Eleuthera, the Island of Freedom, Charles “Chuck” V. Sands, realized he liked taking photos of nature and the freedom with which his subjects thrived and flourished within the natural habitat.
Whether it is a butterfly amidst Bahamian foliage, local musicians playing their percussionist instruments at a jazz festival, or a bee extracting sweet nectar from local fauna, Chuck’s intentional and meticulous approach to the minutiae of nature photography demonstrates his ability to transpose and transform the micro elements of our surroundings to a macro appreciation of their innate beauty.
His brand of camera is a Canon Rebel XSi, but admittedly and assuredly, Chuck does not follow any professional photographer or their photography style.
Chuck’s photography is a passion project that has morphed from weekends shooting nature photos to a more pronounced and deliberate method of shooting photographs organically, without the additions, enhancements, and embellishments that are aided by the photoshopping of digital photography.
Chuck has admired the work of the late Vincent Vaughn, a respectable Bahamian photographer, whom he knew personally and whose artistic style of capturing the unique essence of his human subjects is remarkably like Chuck’s existing photographic philosophy, process, and passion.
For Chuck, realism and authenticity are key. He believes that photography should capture life and the innate nature of a subject as it is, not as the photographer hopes it would be. Of course, to Chuck, photography is a matter of intention, interpretation, perception, and nuance, which can be tricky to capture because of
the subjectivity of the photographer and the inherent intangibility of these fundamental yet deeply personal artistic goals.
His childhood, growing up in Rock Sound, an inherently charming settlement, enhanced further by the presence of tightly knit families with entrenched Bahamian ancestral roots, has influenced, and informed his fascination and proclivity for nature and nature photography. The art form of nature photography can be painstakingly exacting in its attempt to realistically capture the essence and embodiment of the beauty of its subjects, but Chuck continues to embrace a more experiential approach and ways of learning through his photography.
Asked what comprises the “ideal or perfect photograph,” Chuck answered that the ideal photograph is not contrived – one that reflects the authenticity of the subject (or subjects) without the superficiality and pretense of being other than it is, or as God intended.
He has learned the value and disappointment of ‘missed opportunities’ when attempting to capture a particular image that he believes reflects his vision and interpretation – but not having his Canon by his side. These missed opportunities are, themselves organic, which is a natural reflection of his photography bent.
The innate sensibility, nostalgia, and the opportunity to create memories, or rather, to capture special or memorable moments in time are the intrinsic characteristics of the artistry of nature photography.
Chuck’s quiet but assertive presence is reflected through his photography. Although understated and nuanced, his photographs each tell a story that the observers want to know more about. They manifest both the sublime and subliminal imagery of creativity and the creative process in his photography.
Chuck believes that the “creativity” in any photography is the angle and aspect by which the photographer sees and relates, authentically and wholistically, to his subject – human, insect, animal, or insensate object. He does not believe in editing and enhancing photographs to impact the finality of an image.
His personal and artistic philosophy, if there was one, with his nature photography is to continue to create organic and very realistic imagery of subjects that is not one-dimensional but multi-sensory and purposeful in appearance and appeal.
His work has a freshness and innocence about it, and he articulates his vision through his photography in a very celebratory yet deliberate way. One can appreciate his process and passion by just observing the way his subjects emanate their individuality and uniqueness through the realm of his lens and within the context of his imagination and vision.
Much of his travels, individual experiences, and connection to his subjects have collaboratively and interdependently influenced both his perception and perspective and these have been important extensions of himself.
Chuck talks passionately about a black and white photograph he shot of an elderly woman in her natural element and immediate social environment, whilst visiting the island of Andros. That photo has had a profound impact on him because of the raw and natural state of her physical surroundings combined with the intense etching of multiple decades reflected on her face and within her countenance.
Even though the elderly lady was “up in age,” to Chuck, she exuded a certain firmness, calmness, and freedom, all at once, a life undoubtedly punctuated with both pleasure and pain – a representative of us all.
Unbothered or distracted by the potential developments of AI technology in photography, Chuck appreciates its functionality and significance but does not import its nature into his own work, choosing to fundamentally embrace the attractiveness of a more iterative and natural approach to photography.
His love of birds and nature, reading, landscape maintenance, and cooking (stew fish, curry chicken, and corned beef and white rice or “fire engine” in colloquial language) are his other passions, which again, have influenced his photography, his unique perspective, and his artistic expression.
In addition to having a passion for enjoying a good dining experience, Chuck says that he has been told that he has a natural talent for writing poetry and penning some deep thoughts – but that passion, he reluctantly admits, has been dormant for quite some time.
Meanwhile, Chuck continues to grow as a photographer and as a person, and this continued evolution is no doubt an important part of how he sees the world – in photography and life. He encourages amateur photographers to continue learning and exploring new ways of experimenting and improving their passion and craft and to continue to practice as often as possible, to become better at what they do and how they perceive and interpret life and art through their camera lenses. UA
Contemporary artist Denzel Lightbourne describes his art as “a journal that tells the story of my life, captures what I’m feeling in the moment and what I see happening around me.”
Born in Freeport, Grand Bahama, the young, self-taught painter draws his inspiration from Bahamian life and culture. Denzel credits the vibrant colors found in everyday life for awakening his perspective and prompting him to make changes in his artwork during the early stages of his career.
“When I first started, I used a lot of dark colors in my work. I felt like something
“I am always pleased when people look at my work and it takes them to The Bahamas.”By Yolanda Hanna Photographs Courtesy Of Denzel Lightbourne
personalities of my Bahamian people. I got inspired to begin using vibrant colors to create an image of what “The Bahamas” looks like in my paintings.”
The dynamic colors he uses are deliberate representations of Bahamian culture. His philosophy is “life is the best telescope to look through”, and he draws inspiration from experiences happening at the moment, in his community, and
The Streetlights Watched Us More Than Our Parents Did
“I use my work as a platform to shed light on the culture within my community and the difficulties and stigmas young black men and women face in The Bahamas. I often reference my Bahamian background. Art and culture are a great bridge. My work explores the relationships between popular culture and fine art.”
Denzel has exhibited his work in group and solo exhibitions in The United States and The Bahamas. One of his paintings is currently on display at The Central Bank of The Bahamas Art Gallery in New Providence.
In 2023, he achieved a remarkable career milestone by being commissioned by the Bahamas International Film Festival (BIFF) to create a portrait for American actor and producer Morgan Freeman. The critically acclaimed actor was the recipient of the Sidney Poitier Tribute Award, and Denzel’s portrait was presented to Freeman by BIFF for his astounding work and in honor of his friend the late Sir Sidney Poitier.
“I grew up watching Morgan Freeman and I still can’t wrap my head around those photos!” laughs Lightbourne. “I was unable to attend the event, but I did have an opportunity to speak with Morgan Freeman briefly. He loved the portrait, it made him emotional. It was a painting of him and Sir Sidney, accompanied by animation. When he pointed his phone at the painting it would start to animate, and an entire story unfolded.”
These days, Denzel is focused on bringing his art to life by giving people an interactive experience. He thrives on innovation and pushing the envelope and is evolving to become what he describes as “a well-rounded visual artist.”
“I’ve grown. I have become more patient, and my art and compositions have become more innovative. I’m pushing the envelope on how people view and experience art. Right now, I’m more interested in telling a story on a grand scale through interactive experiences. I have started expanding in other areas - working on animation, working on body art, whether it makes me comfortable or uncomfortable.”
“There was a time when I would only share my art with a small group of people. I’m more comfortable (now). I embrace my art and want to share it with the world. I plan to do more shows locally and internationally, and I want my art to hang in galleries around the world.” UA
When we think of Cuba, there are a few thoughts that quickly come to mind: black beans, salsa dancing, sports, and fun, to name a few. Let us discover a new way to have fun in Cuba: I would like to invite you to discover Cuba through the Ecotourism lens.
Ecotourism has become very popular nowadays. This form of tourism has been redefined to create awareness and motivate travelers to coexist with nature while conserving the environment; in other words, to travel responsibly.
Whether you are an items collector, an explorer or a passive viewer, Ecotourism has a fantastic opportunity for you. You can travel on Bahamasair to any of the airline’s destinations in Cuba and allow yourself to be delighted by the beauty that Cuban nature has to offer; but do you know where to go to interact with nature?
Starting from the Western Province of Pinar del Río, you will fall in love with the Cuban scenery. Pinar has valleys, mountains, waterfalls, rivers and much more. One of the iconic natural features of the province can be found in Soroa. El Salto del Arcoiris (The Rainbow Waterfalls) is one of the breathtaking images of Pinar that you will never forget. The Falls have been compared with a Bride’s Veil, as it forms a similar shape.
If you are an explorer, you would love to travel the Southern shores of Matanzas Province. Approximately 13 km from Bahía de Cochinos (Bay of Pigs), there is a beautiful beach called Playa Larga, a 4km-long area where the white sands invite you to a long walk along the shore. Playa Larga, amongst other things, became famous on the 17th of April 1961, as it was the scenario of a very important piece of Cuban History. Its calm clean waters, palm trees and exotic vegetation have inspired ecotourism lovers to interact with nature.
Are you a Wetland lover? Then head to the Western side of Playa Larga, which leads to the Península de Zapata. There you will find an ecosystem with an extensive area of swamp land where you can view flocks of Flamingos, Pelicans, and other migratory waterfowl. These species enjoy the beautiful and rich waters of this area.
If you are a Bird Watcher, heading East of Playa Larga you can find Refugio de Fauna Bermejas, a forest area with live nature, where many birds that are endemic
to Cuba can be spotted. This ecosystem is the home to the National Bird of Cuba
El Tocororo (A Cuban trogon scientifically known as Priotelus temnurus); the Tiny Bee Hummingbird, which is the smallest bird in the world, can also be spotted in this area; you may also find the Cuban Tody, the Cuban Parrot, and the Cuban Pygmy Owl.
Playa Larga is part of Ciénaga de Zapata National Parks located across the South of the Province of Matanzas. The parks extend from Península de Zapata in the West, through Playa Larga and lead to Playa Girón in the East. The Parks have three distinct types of ecosystems.
In this same Park, in Boca de Guamá, there is a wetland where visitors can enjoy a large crocodile farm that has become an attraction for ecotourism lovers. This ecosystem is the most important wetland in Cuba and the entire Caribbean. It is located between Jagüey Grande and Bahía de Cochinos. A great attraction of Boca de Guamá is that it features a reconstructed Taíno Village.
Another attraction found in Ciénaga de Zapata’s Parks is The Gran Parque Natural Montemar. The Great Montemar Natural Park is the largest wetland in the Caribbean. It was established as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve 7 in 2001 and contains ecosystems such as mangrove forests, seagrass beds, coral reef barriers, deep reefs to the Cazones Gulf, and an underwater canyon region where large groupers can be found.
Other attractions in this region are Laguna de las Salinas Lake, famous for birdwatching, and a Fantastic Coral Reef that surrounds the Bay. This ecosystem is the home of the enormous Whale Shark. Marine life experts allow visitors interaction, as this shark is not considered dangerous, and “you can touch it if you like”, the experts say... Well, thanks, but no thanks.
Do you like colorful shells? Cuban endemic species are so beautiful, that some have earned international recognition, such as the Polymita picta, also known as the Cuban Painted Snail. The Polymita was crowned Mollusk of the Year in 2022, by the Senckenberg Nature Research Society, the LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics, and Unitas Malacologica. Displays of the beautiful colorful shells can be found in the Carnegie Museum of Natural History collection. These “Painted Snails” are rare, endangered, and are a protected species.
Traveling all the way to the Eastern side of Cuba is the second city of the country, Santiago de Cuba. Located about 40 km from the City of Santiago is Baconao Park. One of this park’s unique features is the creative sculptures, depicting prehistoric animals. The park is also the home of La Gran Piedra, which translates
as The Great Rock. La Gran Piedra rises about 4,000 ft (1,225 m) above sea level, and it is said to weigh approximately seventy thousand Tons. La Gran Piedra is known as the largest rock in the Caribbean and the third largest rock in the whole world, and it is registered in the Guinness Book of Records.
This Park can be found on the Sierra Maestra Mountain Range, extending through Gramma, Santiago de Cuba , and Guantánamo Provinces. It was officially declared a National Monument in 1976 and consists of a large rock formation. The site has spectacular views, as well as historic and cultural significance. Visitors can explore the historic sites, visit nearby plantations and caves, and take part in geo-tours of the area.
Cuba’s highest point is El Pico Turquino also found in Sierra Maestra. The region is also known for its great-tasting Arabic Coffee. El Pico Turquino is an excellent attraction to go hiking, mountain climbing, or camping. It is 6,476 feet (1,974 m) tall, and it is far away from Cuba’s coastline.
When visiting Ecotourism attractions, you should wear comfortable hiking clothes and remember to protect yourself from the sun.
Have you decided where to go first? UA
Acreative journey that started as a visual journal of his travels has taken Matt Banahan into the creative world of Fine Art Photography. It is a journey that started with a photography class on a semester abroad in Queensland, Australia, and led him to the art nurturing community in Delray Beach, Florida.
Coming from a family that loves travel, Matt cut his “photographic teeth” on travel images. He craves new and unique experiences, as many travelers do. This craving drives his desire to grow and experience new aspects of photography. It led him to work in fashion, surfing, and lifestyle photography in Southern California.
Matt is cerebral about this work. His time in lifestyle and fashion photography allowed him to develop his style based on the inspiration of the great fashion photographers, Helmet Newton and Peter Lindberg. Slower-paced lifestyle and fashion photography provides a balance to the spontaneity of travel photography.
Starting as many photographers do with an inexpensive (in the camera world) Canon, Matt transitioned to the Sony camera when he began shooting more action/surf photography. He then transitioned to the German-developed and manufactured Leica Camera. Attracted to the overall design, he feels the Leica camera is “significantly unique and unmatched.”
This camera allows the photographer to shoot in full manual. Matt enjoys the fact that it “forced me to slow down how I shoot and compose an image. Going from fast shooting with the Sony to the slower process of the Leica provided a new perspective for me.” He describes it as reminiscent of “shooting with film but in a digital format.”
Matt’s photographs have an art feel to them, developed by trial and error. Through his photo processing and camera choice, he adds a touch of blurriness and muted color to his images. Whether processing black and white or with a
touch of sepia, his photographs have an “old Dutch masters” feel to them. He slightly underexposes his work which adds to his signature moodiness to his images.
Evoking emotion is a main goal for Matt when shooting and processing his work. You can feel the delight of diving into the crisp Caribbean Sea or the erotic voyeurism of catching a woman in a private moment, through his photography. He captures the everyday moments that may go unnoticed and adds a level of emotion to them through photo processing.
He looks to highlight what is unique in an everyday scene or occurrence or a random moment in a public place. His goal is to take an image of everyday life, draw the viewers in, and leave something of his image etched into their brains.
One of the lessons Matt has learned on his photographic journey is to shoot what your heart tells you, not what is fashionable or expected. Don’t worry about the rules of photography, shoot what your eye tells you is an interesting image.
For him, the hardest thing to know is when the processing is complete, and the image is ready to show. Also, how to tell an engaging story through the presentation of his photographs. Matt’s mindfulness about his work is apparent as you engage and absorb his images.
You can find more of his images at: www.mattbanahan.com or for purchase at www.saatchiart.com. UA
Photographs Courtesy Of Nikia Wells
Photographs Featuring Nikia Wells in Bali, taken by Jrikk, an Airbnb Experiences Photographer
Bahamians are fortunate enough to enjoy a little piece of paradise, and few places have waters that can rival the crystal clear turquoise hues around the islands and cays of the 242. However, there is a massive world to explore, and despite being such a small nation, the Bahamian passport is a powerful one - ranking in the top thirty most powerful passports around the globe.
Travel planning and prep can be intimidating. Often, deciding on a destination can be just as arduous as arranging vacation time or budgeting for an extended journey. There are many sites for scouting travel deals, but Google Flights is an excellent starting point. The website has tools that not only show flight routes and pricing for multiple airlines and travel sites, but it also provides the option to input a departure city and dates to find destination suggestions. Google Flights
also gives information regarding the average cost for a given flight route and notes if the price is lower or higher than normal.
To scout deals, research flight prices from major hub cities instead of directly from The Bahamas and play with dates if you are flexible - this can yield massive savings for long-haul trips. While ticket prices can vary wildly from peak to low seasons, costs tend to be exceptionally cheaper when searching for flights out of nearby hubs like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Orlando, which can all easily be accessed via local airlines.
When choosing a destination, do not just consider flight costs. A long haul ticket may initially appear pricier than a short haul getaway, but food, accommodation, entertainment, and transportation can be much more affordable in many locations around the world. As a plus, Bahamians can visit many countries without having a visa, but be sure to research entry and vaccination requirements well in advance of travel. Visa and vaccine fees can range anywhere from a token amount to a few hundred dollars.
Longer flight routes might seem undesirable, but sometimes flights with long layovers can result in multiple trips in one. Be sure to click the flight’s route to see what additional cities can be visited, at no additional cost. A very long layover can either be a second ‘free trip” if there is time to leave the airport and
explore, or this can just mean an uncomfortable stay in an airport or needing to book an overnight hotel. Check the timing details carefully.
Booking and paying for hotel rooms, excursions, and transportation well in advance as well as utilizing any available promotional codes can often yield early-bird savings. Credit card reward programs or free hotel or travel brand loyalty accounts can also result in lots of perks and savings over time. Booking in advance can also come in handy for budgeting purposes and in the event debit or credit cards do not work internationally. To avoid any debit or credit issues, be sure to contact your bank ahead of time to let them know where and when you are traveling.
It is also highly advised to get travel insurance. This may seem like a useless additional fee, but accidents can happen anywhere. Travelers with international insurance plans may also need additional travel insurance, as coverage may not be comprehensive.
An affordable trip will usually mean an economy class ticket. Booking an extra room seat may incur additional costs, but it can result in a much more comfortable and relaxing flight. Also, be sure to bring a travel pillow that works for you, and travel in comfortable clothing.
Once you land, be sure to turn off data to avoid incurring unexpected roaming fees. Portable Wi-Fi devices or SIM cards are easily available in many countries. Having access to data when traveling can make using maps, accessing information, using translation tools, and communicating with loved ones back home much easier, and having a local plan can result in big savings.
Planning can seem hard, but a trip is meant to be enjoyed. Take your time, embrace the experience, respect cultures, and focus on having a good time to truly have an unforgettable travel experience. UA
October 21-28, 2023, and the last week in October thereafter, was officially proclaimed as Bahamas Aviation Week, by The Prime Minister of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas, The Honourable Philip E. Davis.
This historic week, provided an occasion to achieve three things:
CELEBRATE the valuable contributions of the over 4,000 amazing family members directly employed across the eight Bahamas Aviation Agencies and the thousands of public and private sector team members who support advancing the mission and mandate of The Ministry of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation.
COLLABORATE around industry best practices, innovations, knowledge sharing, and deepening relationships among stakeholders. As part of Aviation Week, teams engaged in local and international activities, including The Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA) meeting in Cancun Mexico, as well as welcoming over nineteen countries to Nassau, the host city for the 39th Regional Meeting of The International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers Association Americas (IFATCA).
Dr. Kenneth Romer
Bahamas Director of Aviation and Deputy Director General of Tourism
COMMEMORATE the rich history of the Aviation Sector, since the first landing of Chalks Flyer Service, in Bimini in 1919. Over the past century aviation industry giants have driven the growth and advancement of this critically important ecosystem, which “Is The oxygen that fuels the Tourism Industry and Bahamian economy”, said Deputy Prime Minister I. Chester Cooper.
According to Dr. Kenneth Romer, Director of Aviation and Deputy Director General Tourism, “The historic Aviation Week and the plethora of activities, further solidified a shared commitment to the strategic transformation of our aviation ecosystem that will position our destination as the regional exemplar of aviation excellence. We pause to applaud and show appreciation to all persons employed in The Bahamas Aviation Sector!” UA
Amorgos, an enchanting gem of an island nestled in the Aegean Sea, possesses a unique charm that captivates the soul. For me, Amorgos is more than just a breathtaking destination; it is where my journey as a yoga retreat host began. The trip to this captivating island, a testament to my career’s inception, is a tale worth sharing—a tale of love, transformation, and the profound significance of investing in your wellness.
My voyage to Amorgos last summer, to host my fifth annual yoga retreat at Aegialis Hotel and Spa, was unlike any other. It was a pilgrimage to where it all started in 2018, a journey of immense sentimental value. Alongside me, my mother and daughter embarked on this profound expedition, making it even more special. From Nassau to Miami and then Miami to Athens, the journey was a blend of excitement, nostalgia, and anticipation.
In Athens, a city steeped in history and vibrancy, I had the pleasure of introducing my family to my favorite spots and immersing them in the city’s rich culture. We explored historical sites, like the ancient Acropolis, relished delectable Greek cuisine— Loukoumades, Souvlaki and Galaktoboureko to name a few, and marveled at the city’s sheer vibrancy. Athens was the perfect prelude to the serenity of Amorgos.
The heart of this adventure lay in the 8-hour ferry voyage via Blue Star Ferries from Athens to Amorgos. It was a journey marked not only by miles covered but by the emotional distance traversed. It was the first time I had my mother and daughter, Finn, with me on this remarkable voyage since I began hosting yoga retreats on this island.
Preparation for this retreat had begun a year in advance, and the response was overwhelming—it quickly sold out. My primary goal was to curate an experience that would allow my participants to fully immerse themselves in the island’s culture and hospitality, much like I had experienced on my initial visits. I also longed to share my connection to this magical place. An island said to be built on healing crystals.
One of the highlights of the retreat was the hike up the 300+ steps to the Monastery of Chozoviotissa in Amorgos, a place of profound serenity and spirituality. Here, we shared a drink of Raki and a few bites of sweet and sticky Loukoumi with the monks, forging connections that transcended language barriers. Our exploration,
continued as we ventured to Mouros Beach, explored the charming city of Chora witnessed the famous Olympia shipwreck, and savored the magic of an epic boat day on a catamaran, sailing around the enchanting island of Nikouria.
The yoga sessions during the retreat were a blend of Vinyasa, Power, Rocket, and Slow Flow, catering to diverse preferences. Participants thrived in these sessions, embracing the harmony between mind, body, and soul. The workshops centered on building confidence and consistency in one’s yoga practice—a journey towards self-improvement that resonated with everyone.
Yet, what truly made this retreat special was the transformation it sparked within each participant. Amorgos cast its spell on our group, and nobody wished to leave. The retreat had become a profound experience, not just in terms of yoga practice but also in terms of self-discovery and self-connection. Many shared how this retreat had been a turning point in their lives, a transformative journey that left an indelible mark.
Yoga retreats hold the power to dive deeper into self-study, both on and off the mat. They offer opportunities to immerse oneself in another country’s culture while delving into the depths of self-immersion. They create a sense of community, uniting individuals with shared goals and aspirations. The memories forged during these retreats are everlasting, etched into the fabric of one’s being.
For those contemplating joining a yoga retreat, my advice is simple: take the leap. The experience is monumental and essential for personal growth on and off the mat. It is an immersive way to explore another country, as everything from lodging to food to excursions is meticulously planned for you. It is a journey that promises not only scenic beauty but also inner beauty—a journey that leads you to the heart of self-discovery.
In conclusion, my recent retreat to Greece, hosted at Aegialis Hotel and Spa, was more than just a getaway; it was a journey of self-discovery and transformation. Amorgos, with its enchanting landscapes and profound culture, served as the backdrop for a retreat that touched the hearts and souls of its participants. The significance of yoga retreats extends beyond the physical practice; they offer an opportunity to dive deeper into oneself, connect with like-minded individuals, and create memories that last a lifetime. So, if you’re contemplating joining a yoga retreat, remember that it is not just a vacation; it is an expedition into the depths of your own being. UA
Try this invigorating back-bending sequence to add a bit of spice to your practice.
1. Think of a line of energy that aligns from your head to your hips to your heels.
2. Push back through your heels.
3. Engage your legs as you lift your thighs from your kneecaps.
4. Hug your belly into your spine - do not suck in and hold your breath.
5. Keep your neck long as you reach the crown of your head forward.
6. Spread your fingers and root them into your mat to encourage the upper back to flatten and stretch.
7. Shoulders over wrists or slightly forward.
8. Gaze between the hands or slightly forward.
1. Press the tops of your feet into the mat and lift your legs.
2. Legs stay engaged and active, and knees, thighs, and hips are off of the floor.
3. Pull shoulder blades towards each other and down your back as you press your heart center forward.
4. Lengthen the lower back and elongate your neck as you extend through the crown of your head.
5. Wrists are stacked underneath your shoulders and fingers are rooted into the mat with hands shoulder width.
1. From your Plank, continue your exhale into chaturanga or feel free to reset the breath in plank and descend to chaturanga on an exhale.
2. Lower halfway and gaze over the tip of the nose or slightly forward.
3. Hug elbows into your sides as you shift forward slightly to find elbows stacked over your wrists at 90-degree angles.
4. Draw shoulders away from your ears and spread them wide across your back.
5. Send the crown of your head forward to lengthen your spine.
1. Toes point to the front of the mat and heels reach toward the mat.
2. Lift your quadriceps up from your kneecaps.
3. Lengthen your sitting bones to the ceiling.
4. Relax your shoulders down on your back and draw them away from each other to encourage a flat back.
5. Push your palms away from you as you spread wide through rooted fingers. Hands are shoulder-width apart.
6. Feet are hip-width distance with the out edges of your feet parallel.
7. Gaze between your thighs (kneecaps) or feet.
1. Stack the front knee over the ankle and root through the outer edge of your foot.
2. Front knee should be in line with your second toe.
3. Front thigh bone hugs into your hip socket.
4. Root the pinky side edge of the back foot into your mat to protect your knee and activate your leg.
5. Find heel-to-heel alignment or slightly wider.
6. Aim to get the front thigh parallel to the floor.
7. The rear hip draws forward to align them.
8. Open the chest and lift with the heart.
9. Triceps wrap inward as shoulders draw back and down.
10. Gaze up to an upward angle, if comfortable.
1. Exhale to step your right foot back from halfway lift.
2. Push into a big mound or rest the top of your foot on your mat.
3. Lower your back knee gently.
4. Inhale, your chest lifts as your arms extend up, palms can come to touch, or lower hands to stack on top on the front thigh.
5. Roll your shoulders down your back and away from your ears as you draw them together.
6. The pine is long, pubic draws up, tailbone down.
7. Root through the four corners of your front foot and allow your hips to press forward.
8. Hip points are neutral.
9. The front knee aims to stack over the front ankle or slightly ahead. Front knee is in line with the second toe.
1. From Plank, exhale and gently lower your knees, chest, and chin to your mat and land your shoulders right over your hands.
2. Hug elbows toward each other and then point up to the ceiling.
3. Fingers spread wide as hands are aside your chest and under your shoulders.
4. Hips are lifted and toes are pressed into your mat.
1. The chest expands forward and up.
2. Hands are shoulder width and fingers are spread wide as they point to the front of your mat.
3. Elbows are bent and hug into your sides.
4. Roll your shoulders down your back and away from your ears as you draw them together.
5. The pelvis and thighs stay grounded as you lengthen your lower back.
6. Shy away from over-squeezing the glutes, and equally distribute your work.
7. Press the tops of your feet into your mat with emphasis on your pinky-toe side to internally rotate your thighs.
The first thing you notice about Eve Greendale is her warm, soft brown eyes that draw you in and instantly make you feel comfortable. This ease and relaxed aura is reflected in her photographic portraits. The soft lighting and muted colors she uses allow the person or family to take center stage in the photographs Eve creates.
A true Florida native, Eve has lived in Palm Beach County her entire life, including the years she studied graphic design and photography in Boca Raton. Her work reflects the tropical environment she calls home and her skills putting her subjects at ease. At 15, she acquired her first camera, a digital point-and-shoot. She started taking portraits during college to make extra money and it quickly blossomed into a full-time career.
After college, she started as a wedding photographer with some portrait work. Once she married her childhood sweetheart and started a family, she transitioned to full-time portrait and lifestyle work. Her calm demeanor and the relaxed environments where she shoots have become her signature style.
Eve prefers to photograph in natural lighting, which can be very challenging. She takes a thoughtful approach to her work. Doing her best thinking while exercising, she considers potential venues for shooting, the times of day that are best for those venues, and what type of photo processing will allow her clients to shine. She perfected her use of natural light through “trial and error” over her nearly 20 years of capturing family memories.
As a portrait photographer, having a relaxed subject is the first step towards an outstanding outcome. Eve’s soft and contemplative approach puts her subjects at ease. When booking a portrait session, she asks numerous questions, so that she can carefully select a site that reflects the person’s personality.
She uses that same questioning technique to get natural facial expressions and postures. She has learned that giving more direction on where and how to pose gives her subjects confidence and the portraits better capture their essence.
Eve’s favorite subject is children. She loves to shoot their spontaneity. She finds youngsters more relaxed, with multitudes of facial expressions. She has recently started shooting lifestyle and interior photographs for designers. The challenge of creating an image that invites you into a space and reflects the talents of the designer appeals to her.
Whether shooting people or interiors, bad lighting is the biggest challenge for Eve as a photographer. Every job is a different situation, like capturing the moment in soft natural light, even if that light does not exist. Another is the dynamics of shooting a family group which can also be a challenge. She finds that the best way to overcome this is to continually ask questions and give constructive direction. You can see that Eve enjoys this challenge by the way her eyes light up as she talks about it.
When asked what the one thing was, she wished she knew when starting, Eve said, “I wish I had more confidence and knew the value of my work.” What you see in the photographer, Eve is today, is a confident, easygoing, and thoughtful creator. Her work reflects the personalities and joys of her subjects captured with beautiful lighting, in an environment that reflects their personality. UA
roductivity is never an accident. It is always the result of a commitment to excellence, intelligent planning, and focused effort.” Paul Meyer, Entrepreneur & Author Nestled comfortably but prominently in the Western business enclave of the Caves Village Shopping Centre, Open Systems Technologies International (Bahamas) Limited is the innovative embodiment of Paul Meyer’s vision and mantra.
This uniquely Bahamian company with a client-centred, results-driven, and technologically advanced ethos and problem-solving capability has repositioned and pivoted itself to introduce and launch its new Centre of Excellence.
The Open Systems Technologies International Centre of Excellence is the brainchild and innovation of Peter Bridgewater, the President and CEO of Open Systems and is designed to provide expert training in document management, cybersecurity, and data analytics – fundamental risk management and business development tools for increased productivity, data privacy, client confidentiality, and efficient service in today’s technologically advanced business environment.
This certified leader in document management, cyber security, innovative technological business solutions, and data analytics is now the Authorized Partner of the OQLIS Data Intelligence Solution. OQLIS is a DocuWare certified software which is designed to be used for highly integrative process improvement, increased employee productivity, customized reporting, and data analytics, and tracking and measuring key performance indicators (KPIs) in real time.
Mr. Bridgewater proudly states that:
“We have been selling DocuWare for the last 22 years and what I’ve seen is that people want to see the data. The key to their success is reporting, making better decisions, and improving productivity. That is why we want to include the OQLIS Data Intelligence Solution, offering a full-stack data analytics platform with the benefit of data intelligence for data decision-making.”
The impact, influence, and importance of data analytics as an informational and transformational tool for effective business decision-making, strategic planning, increased profitability, and more customized client service cannot be overstated. Data analytics and data intelligence have become the critical assets along with human capital in today’s malleable work environment with its demanding and challenging directives for service excellence and optimal customer satisfaction.
The Centre of Excellence will utilize cutting-edge technology, up-to-date information, and creative online and in-person learning for risk management, IT, Fintech, and financial services practitioners. Its academic mandate, values, and overall mission is to develop critical thinking and creative problem-solving using the latest data intelligence and document management software. The OQLIS Data Intelligence Solution is a game changer in the achievement of the mandate set by Mr. Bridgewater, his team, and the Centre of Excellence.
The Bahamas is a leading financial services jurisdiction with highly competent professionals, sound financial services and data protection legislation and a firm legal and regulatory framework within which many financial institutions have operated and managed billions of dollars of client assets.
The Centre of Excellence will offer practical training and innovative learning that will address the training needs of an experienced financial services and technological workforce but also complement the risk management, IT security, and data intelligence skills that are the underpinning of any governance, risk, and compliance environment.
Mr. Bridgewater is an experienced, highly trained thought leader, innovator, and IT practitioner with a diverse skills-set that has been honed and developed through many years of work experience including international travel to global financial centres and professional development in the financial services industry in The Bahamas.
His visionary leadership style, personal charisma, and expansive knowledge of data privacy, data intelligence, document management, cybersecurity, data analytics, risk management, and financial services, have collaboratively and interdependently worked to make him a respected speaker, trainer, and seminar facilitator in The Bahamas and abroad.
The Centre of Excellence will be a critical IT security and data intelligence think tank, training hub, and business incubator for aspirational technology, IT governance, and risk management leaders. Its manifestation has been years in the making and its mandate is a crucial and necessary one, considering the legislative developments and technological advancements within financial services in the jurisdiction.
Mr. Bridgewater, as its chief architect, is no doubt proud of the achievements that Open Systems Technologies International (Bahamas) Limited has made during the past 22 years creating a Centre of Excellence and now bringing it to fruition. His will be an indomitable task to lead, innovate, and create all at once but this has been nothing new to him and his certified knowledge-management personnel.
In October 2023, Open Systems Technologies International (Bahamas) Limited became an Authorized Sectigo Secure Partner Reseller of the most comprehensive suite of SSL/TLS digital certificates and web security products to keep customers safe from today’s security threats. Sectigo is a trusted Certificate Authority market leader and enterprise-grade Public Key Infrastructure management provider of automated Certificate Lifecycle Management solutions, IoT, DevOps and multi-layered web security.
Open Systems Technologies International (Bahamas) Limited has been a testament to and a proud representation of his tenacity, experience, and expertise in IT security, governance, and risk management in The Bahamas and globally. UA
For more information, visit https://www.opensystems-bs.com
‘I knew God placed a gift inside of me to cultivate so I could be a blessing to people.’
By Yolanda Hanna
Photograph Courtesy Of D. Newton Photography
When a 90-year-old woman bestowed the name “little Mahalia” (an ode to the gospel icon Mahalia Jackson) upon little Cara Newton, it was confirmation that the little girl from The Bahamas was destined for greatness.
Cara Newton’s love for music blossomed at the tender age of three when her grandmother noticed the toddler would become entranced whenever a Whitney Houston song played on the radio. “I was three years old, and my grandmother said whenever a Whitney Houston song played on the radio, no matter where I was, whenever I heard her voice, I stopped whatever I was doing and stared into the atmosphere until the song finished playing. I loved Whitney Houston; she had such an impact on me at a young age.”
Cara debuted her vocals in church when she was allowed to sing lead with the choir. The choir director, who happened to be her cousin, handed ten-year-old Cara the microphone, and she began belting out the lyrics with confidence.
The church audience was astounded and moved by the little girl with the big voice. In her ten-year-old mind, Cara realized God used her to bless the people in the church. And although she had no clue what the future had in store for her, she left the church that day knowing all she wanted to do was sing.
As Cara matured, she cultivated her vocal prowess as a singer and an entertainer. The powerhouse vocalist also mastered her gift for songwriting. Before transitioning to gospel music, Cara was a well-known secular artist and a ghostwriter for numerous music artists in The Bahamas.
Her musical influences come from her love for the sound of The Bahamas - Junkanoo and Rake n Scrape. Her diverse songwriting ability is attributed to her childhood in Harlem, New York. Music wafted through the neighborhood as Cara walked the streets. She watched performers sing and dance in the subway; her grandmother took her to the world-famous Apollo Theater; this was Cara’s introduction to Jazz, R&B, Hip-Hop, Contemporary, and Traditional gospel music.
Cara watched the performers around her like a hawk. She listened intently to their vocals and observed their mannerisms and techniques, soaking up every nuance like a sponge.
When she gave her life to Christ in 2016, she began working on her first gospel album. Remaining true to the sound that she loved, Cara released her first gospel song, “Suddenly” in 2018. The following year, she released the EP, “H.I.M” which was the official proclamation that Cara Newton was now a Bahamian gospel music artist.
“When I released my first song I was very nervous. My prayer at that time was, Lord, hide me, and let the people experience you and encounter you through this music. I wanted people to receive the message in the music and not hold my past against me by focusing on the fact that I was once a secular artist. I was amazed when the listeners and supporters welcomed me in the gospel community with open arms.”
“My Bahamian culture is represented in my music. I created Christian Rake n Scrape. I have done gospel music in other genres. However, I am extremely proud of the fact Rake n Scrape music is what I am known for in The Bahamas and globally.”
Five years and five albums later, Cara has received national and international accolades for her music including, nine Bahamas Gospel Music Awards, two Caribbean Gospel Music Marlin Awards, two Elevation Awards, the Island Boy Records Gospel Music Award, Cape Town South Africa’s Tribe of Praise Radio International Gospel Artist of the first quarter of 2023 and The Bahamas 50th Golden Jubilee Gospel Music Award.
Cara shows no signs of slowing down as she believes her calling is The Great Commission through music ministry. She is constantly working on new music and promises that collaborations are coming soon.
Cara T. Newton is on a mission; she is committed to introducing the world to the sounds of The Bahamas through christian music. UA
Kaché Knowles “iisabahamianbey” and fiercely protects her Bahamian-ness.
When one thinks of the brand “iisabahamainbey” (standard English translation – I am a Bahamian, boy), it’s synonymous with the name Kaché Knowles, who founded a unique lifestyle brand - but move the curtain aside and take a look at the island gyal (girl) from Eleuthera, who dreamed, envisioned, then brought the brand to life. It is so popular that Kaché herself can sometimes find herself consumed by “iisabahamianbey” and just almost lose a sense of her identity because people always ask about “iisabahamianbey”, and almost forget that there is a proud Bahamian named Kaché who came before “iisabahamianbey”. And that there is a story within the story about how she created the unique brand.
“I recently realized that “iisabahamianbey” is my personal call for validating my own Bahamian experience and identity,” says Kaché. “What you witness on the page, or my merchandise is Kaché’s courage to publicly explore, discover, and share my Bahamian-ness — regardless of what I do or do not do. And I have spent a great deal of my life not validating my Bahamian-ness.”
Kaché and her youngest sister were reflecting on her personal development and the fact that, in high school, they both would have voted Kaché the least likely to do what she is doing – validating her Bahamian-ness and doing so proudly. It is not because she did not want to be successful, or that it does not align with her values and beliefs, but because “iisabahamianbey” and Kaché Knowles are so different.
“This brand pushes me out of my comfort zone, forces me to challenge myself - to speak up…to share my views and stand on them no matter what.” This brand makes Kaché show that she is courageous even though most of the time she is scared. “Every time you see me in front of a camera talking about “iisabahamianbey”, I am terrified and would prefer not to, but the mission of “iisabahamianbey” keeps me going, even when a lot of times I want to quit and go into hiding.”
She says she did not realize it when she started “iisabahamianbey” in 2019, but as time passed and she reflects, she has come to realize that she is a Bahamian.
Although she now makes her home in the capital and travels the world, Kaché returns to the island of her birth every chance she gets to continue to soak up the family island’s way of living. She has a love of history, storytelling, and hearing about other people’s lives which is the result of spending time with her grandmother, Norma, in Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, who, she says was a huge influence in her life, and, in true island fashion, told Kaché stories of her life as a child and how she grew up - over and over again.
Although little Miss “Iisabahamianbey” and Kaché Knowles are two different people, one thing is for certain her love for The Bahamas, Bahamian people, and Bahamian culture have always been in alignment.
Kaché Knowles is many things – creator, storyteller, and an island gal from Eleuthera with big dreams. She is proud of her Bahamian-ness, and embraces all the nuances that make her Bahamian and uniquely Bahamian, especially her dialect. It is that pride that led Kaché to launch “iisabahamianbey,” her Bahamian-inspired clothing line and social media-based community, through which she brings awareness to and celebrates the uniqueness of being Bahamian and, for her, most especially, her speech.
Kaché looks at the Bahamian dialect as a playful array of words, phrases, and expressions that she says is like a rhythm ‘n’ rhyme, ocean breeze, the sweetest song, and like a Junkanoo beat. She describes being Bahamian as inspired by the beautiful hues of blues of the seas, the colorful culture, the simplistic island life, the song of the Bahamian dialect, but most importantly - the heart, strength, and soul of people like herself. She says the people are the true jewels of The Bahamas and must be highlighted, shared, and celebrated at home and around the world.
Through her brand, Kaché aims to empower Bahamian culture by preserving the past, educating the present, and building the future – as she says - “iisabahamianbey” aims to celebrate Bahamian people, their tongue, spirit, accents, and dialect.
It was after a trek through southeast Asia where she immersed herself in that culture and witnessed a dance performance in Bali that she asked herself why Bahamians do not celebrate their small intimate expressions of culture.
Three months after she returned home, she did not get the answer to her question, but “iisabahamianbey” was born. It all started with Kaché making a simple open-ended statement on her social media. “I is a Bahamian …” That statement sparked debate between family and friends and gained popularity with Bahamians abroad, who used Kaché’s page to teach their friends about how Bahamians speak – what words mean and even how they are spelled.
Before ‘iisabahamianbey,’ I noticed that people always argued about the correct spelling, so when I created this, I did so to bring awareness to our similarities and a celebration of our differences. ‘iisabahamianbey’ is about inclusivity,” she said. The Eleuthera native says her brand is a “simple expression of culture.”
So, while she holds on to her “Bahamian-ness” with both hands and embraces her unique speech and all things Bahamian, make no mistake about it, this Bahamian is an educated one.
The “iisabahamianbey” founder is one of two sisters and the middle child. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in biological science and earned a master’s degree in marketing, and, like most Bahamians, she, like her siblings, were taught the importance of “proper speech and grammar” and in their formative years, were always corrected when they “talk bad.”
But always speaking proper English is a concept that never stuck with Kaché. “I rejected it from a very young age. People would tell my mom, ‘The oldest and youngest speak so well, what happened to Kaché?’ My response from when I was a child was ‘I is a Bahamian, so I’ll talk the way I want.’”
For her, the idea of speaking proper English and speaking bad “Bahamian-ese” or Bahamian dialect is a concept that impacts the Bahamian identity, and the way Bahamians see their authentic self.
Kaché, a proud graduate of Central Eleuthera High School in Palmetto Point, Eleuthera, pursued tertiary education in Canada. While there she quickly realized that no one understood what she was saying and that she had to make changes. So, she understands the importance of being able to communicate effectively, but her goal is to also teach that “Bahamian-ese” can take up space as well.
We don’t have to have to be scared, ashamed, or judged for our language,” she says. “Our language should be seen, validated, and empowered. It is our identity and our right as a Bahamian.”
Kaché brought this validation initially to adult t-shirts which proudly proclaimed “I is a Bahamian bey” which she said embodies everything that her brand is about – Bahamian identity, vernacular, and empowerment.
Her products were hits and she has since expanded her adult merchandise line to feature hoodies, sweatshirts, crewnecks, bucket hats, tumblers, bags, and books, all with popular Bahamian-ese phrases, including products for “chirren” (translation, children) and extra tings (things) – like tumblers and bucket hats.
Kaché’s favorite Bahamian word is “bey, bui, bei”, with which she features three different spellings of the word “boy”, which is probably one of the most used Bahamian words and can be used to refer to any person. It happens to be her favorite word because of how ingrained it is in Bahamian culture and its common usage. It can be used as a greeting, to describe shock, disappointment, and the opening/ending to a sentence.
“‘Bey’ is very dynamic, depending on how you say it, your tone, your pitch … the context of the sentence. It could be a question, a sentence, or exclaiming excitement. It is very dynamic and very complex,” says Kaché. “The word is one of many that is a part of the beautiful Bahamian language and culture,” she said.
She is also a fan of the saying “kerpunkle (kapunkle) up” simply because she just likes how it sounds - fun on the tongue. It is a word that means drunk or simply when a person is a mess and all over the place.
“Vell mudda sick jdred” (also vel mudda sik dred) which translates to “well mother sick” is another favorite of hers. “It’s almost our Bahamian curse word that we use when everything’s going wrong,” she explains. Words and phrases like “Aye Sweetness” (hello, good looking), “Biggety” (rowdy), “No Broughtupcy” (no manners), have all gotten Kaché’s stamp of approval.
Before Kaché started “iisabahamianbey”, she wanted to do an art page; she is a painter. In trying to come up with a name for that page she wrote “I is paint, bey.” She then wrote several different “I is” statements. The last one she said she wrote was “I is a Bahamian, bey.”
She explained, “the last page was “my language does not dictate my intellect”. I am smart, even though I speak what you deem improper – and by whose measure – and that sort of catapulted from ‘I is paint,’ ‘I is cook,’ to ‘I is a Bahamian, bey,’ which I really believe is my purpose and mission. I have been exclaiming this since being corrected by my parents and grandparents.”
She continued, “I have a master’s degree in marketing and a bachelor’s degree in biological science. I wanted to do an environmental business, combining the two. So fast forward. I have all this education, and you want to tell me I am not smart because I want to talk Bahamian, which is a language and not broken English. We have been taught that there is no place for it. What I want to create is a space where Bahamian English can be valued and appreciated.”
Kaché says she should not be judged for what and how she speaks. “I am not saying do not speak proper, but that there should be a space for the Bahamian language. Let us break down what we see Bahamian is and create a new definition of Bahamian-ism and redefine it.”
The Eleuthera native who packed up her Georgie bundle (merchandise) in two suitcases and relocated to New Providence said she did so having only “gumption and a dream.” UA
Before stepping behind the camera, Rossano “Ross” Deal was a well-known face in Bahamian entertainment, appearing in television commercials, ad campaigns, international productions, and the “Get Charlie” feature film. In recent years, Ross has taken a more active role behind the camera, covering major events in Bahamian news, documenting Buddy Hield’s meteoric rise to NBA fame, revamping the Nassau Guardian’s online presence, and most recently he has been capturing the dynamic stories of Bahamian culture with the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism.
Ross always had a keen interest in performing arts and filmmaking. As a young broadcast media student, he had big dreams of seeing the world through his art, and his cinematography career has allowed him to do just that. Ross has covered news, sports, and cultural events throughout North America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and South America, and he is optimistic that this is just the start of his ever-evolving career.
Being willing to learn, and taking chances is what has allowed Ross to continue to evolve as an artist and professional, and he encourages other budding cinematographers to have the same mindset. “Be as open-minded, creative, and bold as possible. You want to make a statement for yourself. You want to create a story that people can follow through your imagery. Believe in the talent that you have and the skills that you have. Do not think of it as lesser than anyone else’s and do not compare yourself to anybody. Create your lane.”
Ross also notes that he never wants to stop learning, and his second tidbit of advice for other budding visual artists is “being diligent with your creative eye and enhancing your skills. Do not ever think that there is a final goal or a finish line for knowledge. Keep evolving and keep embracing new experiences.” UA
Photographs Courtesy Of Le-Var Miller/BAIC
weet scents of mango, papaya, lavender, and island blossoms were just some of the fragrances that filled the air at 1er Cru at Bristol on Gladstone Road recently as the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) presented its first-ever “Smell and Tell: Smell the Essence” event.
It was certainly one for the senses, as the look, feel, and appeal of body scents, candles, essential body oils, potpourri, and soaps along with the enticing smell of food provided patrons with a delightful experience.
BAIC which seeks to promote the orange economy of The Bahamas, which includes artisans, developed the event after a two-year success with its “Taste and Tell” festival that features authentic Bahamian food like drinks, jams, jellies, and indigenous crops.
Lateasha Saunders of Scentsy Aroma Bar was one of the vendors at Smell and Tell. Saunders provided a unique experience for patrons to create their own perfumes or colognes.
“We started a year ago and the idea was birthed through my love for the senses. You would choose one of our base fragrances that are made in The Bahamas by Bahamians and then you would top it off with essential oils. You also have the opportunity to create your own name for the scent and label your scent,” she explained.
Saunders studied biochemistry in China and visited Dubai where fragrances are also a major industry.
“I figured out a way to harness that and shorten the process, and I believe it was innovative.”
Saunders sells a bottle of self-made fragrances for $90 and a velvet bag. However, she is also requested for private and pop-up events.
“The feedback has been overwhelmingly good at all our events. We continue to have repeat customers.”
Phillia Forbes at Bella Bath Delights and Candles was another vendor who got positive feedback. Her full line of products includes candles, body sprays, butters, scrubs and body washes, massage oils, linen sprays, pedicure kits, and bath salts. As a Bahamian artisan, Forbes says her products can match up with anything internationally.
“I think they match up with anything internationally because I know that they are fully organic. I take pride in my candles so even though you hear a lot about a Bath and Body Works candle – it’s not fully soy. I know that I use organic candles and when people smell my candles, they love the scent even more. All my body products are all-natural, rich, and moisturizing,” she said.
Another vendor specializing in body products was Charmaine Fernander of Bahamas Soap Opera. Fernander puts Bahamian flare in her products featuring The Bahamas’ most vivid, cultural expression – Junkanoo.
“We have a Junkanoo-inspired soap with all the colors and glitter. We have soft soap and sea sponges, body shimmer lotions, and awesome fragrances such as cocoa gold, conch pearl, cocoa cashmere body butters, and skin-loving products,” she said.
“I’ve traveled abroad, and tourists have tried my products. The first thing they look at is the quality of the ingredients. I believe in my products, and I believe in giving the best.”
Deshel Ferguson and Carlene Burrows are the owners of Escentially You. Their products also included soaps and body butters made from natural ingredients such as oatmeal, neem, honey, aloe vera, and turmeric.
“We ensure that we educate our customers because we don’t put fragrances in our products,” said Ferguson.
“Bahamians are getting into soap making. I think a lot of Bahamians see the products made from home and they think it’s not good enough. This is a barrier that I am trying to break to ensure that my business succeeds in The Bahamas.”
Iesha Carey of Scent Therapy specializes in candles but ensures that her candles are also aesthetically pleasing.
“I also love to be playful with my scents. I have one called boom, pine, apple whine, or sugar plum, plum. I want people to love my scents and remember them,” she said.
All the vendors at the event have an online presence and can be found on Facebook and Instagram.
Chairman of BAIC Leroy Major said the corporation intends to create other events to connect artisans to local and international patrons.
“We believe in our artisans and want to empower them. That is our desire and dream, and we want to help these talented artisans to take their business to the next level,” he said. UA
You feel Stephen Ippolito’s intensity the minute you meet him. That intensity shines in his photography. As you talk with him about his work, the conversation takes you down an analytical and detail-oriented path. He has a self-proclaimed balanced brain, with equal parts left and right brain. That duality shows in the way he lives his life. By day the analytical left brain works as an accountant. In his leisure time, his creative right brain pursues landscape and drone photography. This balance produces rich, detailed, and unexpected images.
Stephen first picked up a camera in 2014, using it to preserve the memories of his son playing soccer. His creative eye was quickly recognized as he won the “Outstanding Youth Soccer Photography Award” from the Florida Youth Soccer Association in 2017.
When his children headed off to college, he began to experiment with landscape photography, specifically time-lapse and night photography. After a trip to Joshua Tree National Park to photograph the Milky Way, Stephen was hooked. Wherever there is a lack of ambient light, you will find him photographing the stars.
He purchased his first drone in 2021, inspired by the drone footage of whales off the Juno Beach Pier on Instagram. He reached out to the photographer for some tips and started his journey into drone photography. Whether it is time-lapse or drone photography, clearly Stephen likes to photograph things that cannot be seen without the assistance of technology.
It is also clear that he likes working at both ends of the photography spectrum. He embraces the visualization and planning of landscape photography, especially night photography. Stephen also embraces the spontaneity and unexpectedness of drone photography, particularly the sea creatures that inhabit the Florida waters. The details and specificity of still photography feed his left brain. The unplanned nature of drone photography feeds his right brain.
Protecting Florida’s fragile ecosystems and giving back to the community is important to Stephen. Photographs that he donates to charity auctions are frequently the highest money maker of the event. He is careful not to geotag his drone footage or disturb the sea life in their natural environment.
When starting in drone photography, Stephen was nervous about crashing the drone into the water. As his experience grew and his agility grew, his work became bolder. Purchasing insurance for his drone helped him to take more risks with it. He learned the captivating power of nature. You feel his reverence for the natural world in both his drone and still photography.
When shooting drone photography, he is inspired by the unknown of what you may or may not see. Still, photography is more of a creative outlet for Stephen, especially the visualization and planning that goes into night photography. The other outlet for his creativity is the processing of both still and drone imagery. He shoots in RAW or D-LOG and
As the day breaks, listen closely and you can hear the melody of the sky as she begins to sing and dance with every second of the rising sun. The faint lullaby awakens you to rainbow hues brushing across nature’s blue canvas up high. A show of spectacular color bursts through the tik-toc-king weaving of time.
“Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder”, whispers past my ears. Like an invitation to a secret rendezvous, the camera calls and off we go on our merry way to capture the moments of perfection today. Bloom or gloom there is beauty in every room.
The journey taken with the camera is vast, especially on this little Island of Long Island. With endless scenery, the landscapes and seascapes lend themselves to a photographer’s dream, with good lighting, amazing views, and timeless beauty.
When you look around there is so much to see, inhaling through the eyes down to the soul.
Hop on a flight, grab your camera, and chill in the window seat as you are heading to The Bahamas. I promise you will not be disappointed. You may just want to wipe off the window after that to see if it is all real. Do not let the moment pass you by.
An island adventure at hand, seize the day to explore Long Island. Magnifying the subject with the focus of your lens. I wish you could take it in and take it home…and you can, just a click away.
My most treasured experience is one shared with my mother; she loves beauty and so do I. With no hesitation, camera in hand, we are off to tour the sites and vistas of Long Island. Camera clicking and smiles beaming as we experience the sites and vistas of pure, natural beauty and wonder.
Traveling “up south” to Gordon’s Beach and “down north” to Columbus Pointe, there is much to see. The rolling cliffs bathe alongside the indigo seas creating such dramatic coastal scenery. The landscape, florals, old structures, and buildings bring such distinction and uniqueness you truly want to capture the moments. Salt flats, lakes, ponds, beaches, and blue holes scattered across the length of Long Island lend such wonder to the eyes, joy to the soul, and the unforgettable essence left behind by the shutter of the lens.
Shooting some of my favorite Long Island scenes and being able to share them with the world is an honor.
On your next visit do not forget the camera.
What does your lens see… beauty in everything. UA
Kovah Duncombe has worked with some of the biggest brands, companies, and resorts throughout The Bahamas, and his photographs have been featured in print campaigns around the world. As a commercial photographer, he is not always credited by name, but he takes pride in opening a major international publication and seeing one of his images.
Kovah always had an interest in art, and initially started working in the graphic design field, creating unique visual elements for a wide range of clients. As his artistic interests broadened, he gravitated towards photography, which he viewed as a more “expressive medium.” He soon discovered that he had a unique eye for capturing dynamic images, but Kovah’s technical expertise would be developed via trial, and error, lots of practice, and keeping abreast of international trends and techniques.
The encouragement of his clients and photography peers also inspired Kovah to continue growing and evolving as a photography professional. He credits makeup artist, Italia Williams, as a major inspiration for his advancement in the field. Kovah would capture headshots and portfolio photos for her makeup clients, and their partnership would be invaluable as he gained insight and knowledge behind the camera.
Kovah describes portrait work and capturing the human form as a fun and enjoyable experience, but he soon gravitated towards commercial work due to the collaborative nature of many larger projects.
“I like the feeling of working as a part of a team. You have makeup artists, hair stylists, a set designer, a director, a whole team, with one goal - get these shots and make it look as good as possible.”
For those looking to become a photographer or developing a career as a commercial photographer, Kovah has a few key words of advice - “Practice your skills, listen to clients and critics, respect the client’s vision and be consistent.”
Commercial photography is unique in that it relies on a collaboration between a photographer and a project manager to meet the requirements of a given assignment, so there will need to be some artistic give and take. Kovah notes that it is vital for a photographer to understand if his or her skillset and approach can fit into that type of environment. “A lot of photographers want to do things how they see it. They cannot provide the client with exactly what they are looking for because they may not have that skillset or they may feel trapped inside of a box. The key is to work on your skills to expand the level of work that you can do, so that you can accomplish anything that the client needs and show things how they would like them to be done.”
Kovah also notes that clear communication is vital when creating commercial campaigns, and suggests creative directors listen closely to the questions that photographers are asking to ensure that each side understands the intended vision. UA
You do not need to be a professional with lots of expensive equipment to capture some great photos in Raleigh; you just need to know where to look. From vibrant city murals to blooming nature parks, this historic capital offers tons of scenic spots for photography buffs. Here are a few places to get you inspired. Grab your camera or phone and hit the town – it is a great way to discover everything Raleigh has to offer.
Raleigh’s skyline is majestic but compact, perfect to capture with your camera. My favorite spot to shoot the skyline is from the Boylan Bridge in the Boylan Heights neighborhood. Twilight is beautiful, and, if your visit coincides with a full moon, the results are magical. The bridge overlooks the train tracks, so if you are lucky, you might catch a train in the image. Come early and grab a beer at Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing. Their patio is a great photo-taking spot too.
You do not need to be a resident to take advantage of the swanky patio and stellar views from The Dillon Apartments in the Warehouse District. Just take the elevator to the ninth floor and enjoy the outdoor terrace which is open to the public from 7am to 7pm. You could even stop at Makus Empanadas a few blocks down to pick up an Argentinian snack to enjoy during your al fresco photo session.
You could easily spend a day exploring Raleigh’s public art. With over 160 sculptures, murals, and pieces of street art, you are sure to find something that catches your photographer’s eye. From decorative utility boxes to the Rainbow Head sculpture in Nash Square, vibrant colors and shapes are everywhere. Discover your favorite using the Downtown Raleigh Alliance’s interactive map with
descriptions and directions for each piece. You will find the largest concentration of public art in the Warehouse District. Go to: www.downtownraleigh.org/explore/public-art to find the map.
A few of the more popular murals carry messages like the All are Welcome mural and the Do Good Mural, transforming your shot from a simple photo into a meaningful statement.
One of the best ways to find photo spots is to take a tour with the locals. The Raleigh Walking Tour Company offers two murals and public art tours led by Tricia Sabol, who has called Raleigh home for over 20 years. She even offers a “Sip ‘n Stroll” tour, which starts at The Whiskey Kitchen bar and restaurant. Come early and buy a drink to enjoy while you stroll the social district, where walking and sipping a cocktail is allowed. You will see some of the city’s largest and most vibrant large-scale public art pieces.
The tours are “pay-what-you-want,” which means Tricia works hard to make sure you have a good time. It is cash only and advanced reservations are required. Visit them online at www.raleighwalkingtour.com to learn more and book a spot.
From sunsets and oak trees to daffodils and babbling brooks, nature has long captivated the photographer’s eye. The JC Raulston Arboretum is one of the best places in Raleigh to snap shots of Mother Nature’s finest works. This 10-acre garden has over 5,000 species of plants, so you are sure to find something to catch your eye. Gazebos, trellises, rose gardens, cacti, and flowering shrubs make this a photographer’s paradise. It is also a great spot for a picnic, with plenty of tables and benches. Best of all, it is free.
Dorothea Dix Park is Raleigh’s largest city park and boasts views of downtown. If you visit in early spring, you might catch daffodils in bloom. Tens of thousands of
these yellow beauties on display form a river of color with the Raleigh skyline in the background. In the summer, Sunflower Field draws selfie seekers who enjoy frolicking in the flowers. Food trucks and entertainment add to the fun on weekends.
At the North Carolina Museum of Art, the Art in Bloom Festival highlights dozens of pieces of art crafted from flowers. Each March, floral artists use branches, vines, and fresh and dried flowers to interpret the museum’s existing paintings. The Museum Park adds many photo opportunities with colorful gardens, and sculptures, including the iconic Gyre rings. Visit the welcome center for a scavenger hunt map, a great way to explore the 164-acre park.
Ever wanted to get up close and personal with a dinosaur? Visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences to see the world’s most complete Acrocanthosaurus dinosaur skeleton on display. Experiment with different shots from above and below this 40-foot-long rare dinosaur. While you are there, take some shots of the two-toed sloth, butterflies, and other creatures who call the museum home. Do not miss the 5-story tall globe outside the museum. Where else could you snap a photo of Earth? (It is the second largest “earth” on Earth by the way!) Just like many museums in Raleigh, admission is free. UA
North Carolina Museum of Art Museum Park
JC Raulston Arboretum Photographer Chris Glenn
North Carolina Museum of Natural Science - Photographer Karen Swain
Forests are one of the most ecologically significant terrestrial biomes1 on Earth and cover over a third of our planet’s land area. There are three main types of forest biomes: Tropical Forest, Temperate Forest, and Boreal Forest. With regards to Tropical Forests, this group can be divided into Rain Forests and Dry Forests. This article will focus on the Tropical Dry Forest.
Tropical Dry Forests are one of the most important forest types on earth and more than half of it is found in the Americas (mostly in South America) and The West Indies. The Bahamian Dry Forest (also known as the Coppice and the bush) is part of the Tropical Dry Forest biome, and this ecosystem dominates most of the Bahama islands. Depending on the island or cay you are staying on, this forest can range in height from over 8m to less than 3m.
In The Bahamas, hundreds of native plants live in this forest ecosystem and some dominant plants include Pigeon Plum, Gum Elemi, and Poisonwood. All three of these plants are extremely important fruit-bearing species that feed a variety of birds such as the White-crowned Pigeon, Bahama Parrot, Bananaquit, Bahama Mockingbird, and many others. Reptiles such as Anole lizards, Bahamian snakes, and Cuban Whiptails, as well as a rich diversity of arthropods, reside here.
Most of our endemic reptiles and our only endemic species of frog (The Bahama Flat-headed Frog) are tied to the Bahamian Dry Forest ecosystem.
The Bahamian Dry Forest is part of Bahamian culture, from folktales and woodwork to bush medicine. Many Bahamians can remember “rambling tru duh bush” as children, catching crabs, collecting Thatch Palm leaves for making straw baskets, and eating fruit from Pigeon Plum trees.
Sadly, the Tropical Dry Forest biome is regarded as the most Endangered forest biome on earth. A study published in 2006 asserted that less than 1,048,700 km2 of this forest remains on the planet. Although The Bahamas is blessed to have a large proportion of its Dry Forest still intact, development, agriculture, and climate change continue to be major threats. Supporting conservation organizations like the Bahamas National Trust and collaborating with developers to build sustainably and replant native trees is vital to ensure the longevity and future of one of the most important ecosystems in The Bahamas and on earth.
1 A biome is a biogeographical unit defined by a unique assemblage of plants and animals and the physical environment to which they have adapted. UA
Born and raised on the idyllic, pristine, North Atlantic Island of Bermuda, a young, intelligent, independent, and innovative Guilden Gilbert began his photography journey at the age of fourteen – over forty-four years ago.
As he admits proudly and unapologetically, he is still learning, embracing, and appreciating more of the intricacies and nuances of his passion and craft as he continues to develop as the consummate professional sports photographer.
His passion for photography, particularly sports photography, is demonstrably evident as he enthusiastically and explicitly describes the iterative process of lighting, timing, perspective, and imperfection that create a “near perfect” photograph. Self-taught, self-motivated, and self-inspired, Guilden masterfully captures the
essence, soul, and spontaneity of his subjects. Whether it is a young energetic athlete caught in midair jumping a 42-inch hurdle or a Caribbean soccer player passing the ball to a teammate or attempting a shot into the goal, Guilden captures the emotionally-charged action of his subjects- almost as if he was inches away – and with meticulous timing, perfect artistry, and an incomparable uniqueness that has made him a respected, accomplished, and a well sought-after sports photographer, locally and internationally.
Starting in a small darkroom at high school in Bermuda with a Canon 81 camera, gifted by his parents, Guilden developed an innate passion for all genres of photography by taking copious notes on settings, lighting, contrasts, and shutter-speed, while inadvertently teaching himself the ubiquitous ‘exposure triangle’, the foundation of any notable photography.
Aside from his remarkable career as a professional liability insurance executive and subject matter expert in the insurance industry both here and in Bermuda, Guilden’s photography has earned honorable mention in many international photography competitions; been featured in art galleries around the world; and has garnered him many personal accolades and commendations from notable professional sports associations and bodies familiar with his intricately intuitive work.
His work has been published in N-Photo, a Nikon-inspired photography magazine, selected by the Bermuda Government which has displayed his work in its Ministry of Finance boardroom; and showcased in the homes of many private collectors. Yet, Guilden has hundreds of thousands of images that have yet to be displayed and discovered.
Having seen just a small portion of his body of work, this author can attest unbiasedly and confidently that his photographs are breathtaking, imaginative, and almost visionary in their depiction and representation of the subject.
His talent, creativity, and individual perspective lie in his emphasis, engendering, and engineering of the technique of lighting contrast as both an expedient tool and a multifunctional, iterative process of balance, authenticity, realism, and purposefulness.
Guilden is both a lifelong student and a teacher of the art of photography. He has taught photography classes in professional development and enrichment programs, locally, with another photographer.
Guilden prefers film photography to digital photography as he believes it allows him full control of the creative process. Additionally, to him, film photography more realistically portrays a subject in his or her most authentic form than the technological gadgetry of digital photography. He admits though that this is functional and a matter of artistic interpretation, that makes it harder to distinguish between the complexities of digital photography and the expediency of digital art.
Asked whether there was a particular personal or iconic photograph or professional photographer that has impressed and artistically influenced his work, Guilden says there is none that particularly stands out, but he has admired the work of professional photographers, Ansel Adams, and Joe McNally. He has never tried to emulate their work but decided to create his own original photography which has been featured prominently in The Bahamian Project.
His advice to amateur and professional photographers is to keep shooting to learn, grow, and develop as an artist, a student, and a master of the art of photography. Guilden also implores photographers to get out of their comfort zones, and shoot subjects and embrace other types of photography that they have never experienced or embraced before.
To him, this seemingly counterintuitive way of honing their photography skills, no matter the genre they choose, will help them to gain a more intuitive perspective and personal understanding of their artistry and its creative process.
Notwithstanding his professional engagements for the 2017 Carifta Games, IAAF World Relays, or the football championships of CONCACAF (the Confederation of North, Central America, and Caribbean Association Football), Guilden is of the view that all photography is essentially about storytelling.
His “stories” are transplanted from his head onto beautiful canvasses which display the authenticity and rawness of his subjects captured, particularly in sports photography, in the richness and uniqueness of their “moment in time”.
To Guilden, art is innate in everyone, and its representation through photography is a profoundly visual, iterative, and creative process that manifests organically if it is done with passion, intention, and authenticity.
Photography is a lesson in patience to this masterful professional photographer. Through photography, one can learn a lot about the nuances, intricacies, and mysteries of the art form, if the photographer allows himself/herself to follow their intuition and be guided by their visual interpretation of light, timing, and perspective. UA
She is tenacious, unapologetic, and extraordinary. KEEYA (Khia Poitier) is a multimedia artist and a force that resides comfortably “out of the box” with her perspective and vibrant expression.
A graduate of the renowned Rhode Island School of Design, KEEYA has spent the past ten years evolving, exploring, and building her career as an artist.
Her artwork is a bold collage of colorful mixed media that masterfully narrates stories of Bahamian life, culture, and her journey.
KEEYA admits that her road to artistic discovery was arduous at times which caused her to doubt her gift in the early stages of her career.
“As a young artist, I spent a lot of time wanting to change everything that came naturally to me. When I went to school in Rhode Island, I thought the colors I liked weren’t right because nobody else used them. I was different, I questioned myself, and looking back I can see now that I wasted so much time being afraid rather than developing my talent. I eventually realized that I am supposed to be an artist.”
After years of hard work and searching for her space within the art universe, KEEYA has found her designated place. In 2023, she accomplished several significant career milestones. She is proud of her work and the recognition she has received in The Bahamas and internationally.
“I could use anything to tellBy Yolanda Hanna Photographs Courtesy Of Keeya
“Being an artist isn’t easy (she laughs). I’m now a full-time artist. I’ve worked hard over the past ten years and finally have some wins in my column! I experienced so many blessings last year - a residency at The Current at Baha Mar, my first solo show in The Bahamas and Ghana, a group show in Los Angeles, and a showing at Art Basel in Miami.”
“There was a time when I felt so out of place. When I was younger, I never felt like I could take up space. I learned to use my art to be seen and found a way to take up space through my art.”
Inspired by Bahamian artist Amos Ferguson and the loud colorful expressions of Junkanoo, KEEYA uses collage to tell her stories. She is amazed by the support she has received at home and the large number of Bahamians who attended her art shows and expressed their admiration for her work.
“I love Amos Ferguson’s artwork and I’m heavily influenced by his work. Junkanoo is another big influence – the loud expression, the color, the music. My art is about me, and I had to find ways to tell my stories. Collage is my favorite
expression. I like playing with collage because I like how people accept it as reality.”
KEEYA has come a long way from her childhood home in the Palmdale neighborhood in Nassau. She is excited about the future and has strong advice for young aspiring artists who are doubting themselves:
“If you feel you’re supposed to be an artist invest in it, learn it, find others who do what you want to do, and watch them. There are so many Bahamians in art “who are killing it” right now. But you must believe it. The sooner you believe it, the better off you will be. For years, I sat by and watched others do something I thought I could never do before I finally realized I could do it too. I wasted time being afraid because I thought art wasn’t for me. You must believe this is for you and that you can do it.” UA
MS. TINA WALSH comes from a family of travel lovers and foodies, she has traveled to 53 countries, 47 states in the United States and 5 continents. Her love of cooking started young, in the kitchens of her grandmothers, one Italian, one German. She will travel for food, wine, yoga, natural beauty, sports, visual and performing arts. Her passion for these things includes the people she shares them with. In 2018, she expanded her on-line presence and started a blog.
MS. DEANDREA HAMILTON is a three-time Telly Award winning Bahamian/Turks & Caicos journalist who has spent nearly 30 years of her life telling the stories of the people, the places and the plans of the greater Caribbean and beyond. She is the owner of Magnetic Media—which churns out two TV broadcast productions for regional and international TV audiences, five days a week. As is her mantra on her TV show, she is living life to the full, she is living in colour.
MS. NIKIA WELLS is an avid traveler with a passion for seeing the world, learning about new cultures, trying unique dishes and raising awareness about the freedoms of solo travel. In 2014, this Grand Bahama native created the PinkSands242 website, which is devoted to spreading her passion for travel, food and new experiences from a Bahamian perspective, while demystifying various elements of world travel. Her writings have been featured on www.bahamas. com and several other local publications.
MS. YOLANDA HANNA is a Writer, Digital Content Creator, Publicist, former Radio Personality, and an advocate for the promotion of Bahamian Music, Art and Culture. She is passionate about Grand Bahama Island and telling stories that highlight the diverse talents of the Bahamian people.
MS. KEESHA CLAUDIA BETHELL is a new-age writer, creative and award-winning Journalist who has her finger on the pulse in many areas of interest including mainstream news reporting and production, television/internet program production and travel, Spanish, leisure and culinary writing—not to mention social media.
MS. KIRSTEN HARRINGTON is an Orlando freelance food and travel writer, chronicling adventures in the US and China. Her work has appeared in WhereTraveler, The Seattle Times, Edible Orlando, The Beijinger, GoNOMAD, World Footprints and numerous other publications. When she’s not writing, you can find her scoping out new adventures, hiking or enjoying a meal with her family. Visit www. kirstenharrington.com for more information.
MS. BIANCA MAJOR is the editor of The Long Island Runner News and is an avid promoter of The “real” Bahamas, its culture and all things Bahamian. Her diversity spans across professional fields such as Publishing, Marketing & Graphics, Social Media Content Creation & Management, Photography, and Marketing. Bianca the “artist”, “foodie” and radio personality has more than two decades of experience and has a passion for writing. Raised between The United States and The Bahamas she has a unique concept of our culture.
MS. ALEXANDRA ‘BAHAYOGI’ KAUFMANN is a lover of all things yoga, wellness, and life. Along her yoga journey, she has practiced and studied Power, Baptiste, Hot, Restorative, Rocket, and Vinyasa Flow Yoga. She has completed over 500 hours of yoga teacher training with world-renowned instructors. Her passion for teaching has attracted celebrity clients like Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, and Jennifer Lawrence.
MR. TYRONE FITZGERALD is a cultural creative writer, adjunct lecturer, music lover, and visual and performing arts enthusiast. He has been a contributing writer to various business, arts, and lifestyle publications including the Atlanta-based Young Black Entrepreneur Magazine (now The Charleston Compass). A Cambridge Commonwealth and Errol Barrow Memorial Trust Scholar, Tyrone has degrees in economics and law, a master’s degree from Cambridge University, and has pursued advanced studies at Harvard Law School and Harvard School of Education.
MR. LOUIS R DAMES SR. is a graduate of Saint John’s College, Nassau. A frequent presence on social media and the author of six books which were the compilation of his daily posts to family and friends. He is a retired business executive and continues in retirement as a consultant in a wide range of disciplines.
DR. MYRURGIA HERNANDEZ, Doctorate Candidate at Universidad de Baja California, Mexico, is an alumnus of University of Havana, Faculty of Foreign Languages (FLEX according to Spanish Acronyms) Class of 1998. She became an approved Lecturer by the Board of The College of The Bahamas (COB), now University of The Bahamas (UB) in December of 1999. In 2000 (January), Ms. Hernandez joined the Faculty of The School of Communication and Creative Arts as a Spanish Part-Time Lecturer.
MR. SCOTT JOHNSON is a Terrestrial Wildlife Biologist and Environmental Scientist. His major fields of interest are Bahamian animals with special focus on reptiles and birds. He studied at the College of The Bahamas before transferring and completing his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biology at St. Mary’s College of Maryland. He is a Wildlife Educator, Eco-guide Trainer, Researcher, and has over 15 years of active terrestrial fieldwork experience.
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