The Eleutheran Newspaper June/July 2020 Issue

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Volume 13, Issue 6/12, 2020

Eleuthera, Harbour Island & Spanish Wells, The Bahamas

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Looking Ahead: Farmers & Entrepreneurs Form NEW COOPERATIVE

Harbour Island, Spanish Wells, & Eleuthera - North, Central & South BACK COVER: Damianos Sotheby’s Int’l PAGE 3: Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty PAGE 5: HG Christie

Story On Page 26

Innovative Entrepreneurs & Farmers Cooperative (IEFC).

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Emergency Orders extended 19

Home Destroyed

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Minister Campbell applauds ‘Rock Legend’ Kravitz’s donation; hopes it serves as inspiration throughout Diaspora

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By Matt Maura Minister of Social Services and Urban Development, the Hon. Frankie A. Campbell, commended Rock Legend Lenny Kravitz for Mr. Kravitz’s recent

donation of $100,000 worth of food vouchers. The Department of Social Services, Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development, was tasked with distributing the food vouchers.

hope that the donation would inspire others “with the means to do so”– within The Bahamas and the wider Bahamian Diaspora around the globe -- to follow suit.

Minister Campbell said it was his

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Pg 28 OEF Reflections/Economic Boost

ADVICE:

14 (Substance Abuse ...) ; 13 (Don’t Hit the ROOF...) |

Anna L. Lewis, a young woman who resides in James Cistern with her husband, Jeremy Lewis and family has released a new book of poetry, titled, ‘Thoughts of a Thinker - Life of Poetry’. This book, Anna’s first publication, which she describes as relatable and reflective, invites her readers to see themselves and to be encouraged. ...

Full Interview On Page 20

Opinion :

12 & 33 |

See Stories

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Budget: Minister of Works makes announcements on proposed Projects in Eleuthera Mostly Overdue & Previously Promised works

EXPECTATION for 2021 : 3-Year Construction Contract Expected For Glass Window Bridge: The Minister of Public Works, the Hon. Desmond Bannister during his budget speech in the House of Assembly on June 17th, 2020 as part of his discussion on Eleuthera, announced that a construction contract for the replacement of the Glass Window Bridge, which is expected to take 3 years to complete, is anticipated to be awarded early in 2021.

“The replacement of the bridge structure is long overdue, and in December, 2019 the Ministry of Public Works engaged consultant engineers to undertake a comprehensive feasibility study followed by detailed

engineering design for a new bridge along a new alignment. The works studies are to take into account future demand; financial viability; climate impacts, including projected climate change and other environmental and

Above: The renown Glass Window Bridge - which connects Central and North Eleuthera at the narrowest point along the island where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Bight of Eleuthera.

socio-economic issues relevant to the site,” said Bannister, as he began to outline the phased plan to construct a new bridge at the renown Glass Window location, which connects Central and North Eleuthera at the narrowest point on the island -

where the vast Atlantic Ocean cozies up to the calm Bight of Eleuthera.

He continued with the outline, saying, “The Glass Window site P10

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Kravitz’s donation

ning singer, songwriter, musician, record producer and actor, Mr. Kravitz made an initial donation of $50,000 in food vouchers to be distributed among persons in need in New Providence and Grand Bahama. The donation was made through Mr. Kravitz’s Let Love Rule Foundation.

Ms. Kim Sawyer, Deputy Director, Department of Social Services, Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development, spearheaded oversight of the distribution process. Ms. Sawyer said officials focused on the most vulnerable populations -- the elderly, persons from the community of persons with disabilities and persons with chronic, non-communicable illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and kidney disease – as they require special diets.

Consultations were done in collaboration with the Senior Citizens Division, Disability Affairs Division, Community Support Services Division, Health Social Services and the Urban Renewal Commission,

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the Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development. Officials also consulted with counterparts at the Cancer Society.

Requests from certain groups operating Soup Kitchens that, because of the Emergency Orders relative to Curfews and Lock Downs could not operate in their usual manner, were also facilitated.

The Rock Legend made a second donation of $50,000 in food vouchers to be equally distributed between “persons in need” in New Providence and those in his “beloved” Eleuthera.

“The Bahamas is proud of Lenny’s many accomplishments, but we are even more proud of the fact that with all that he has accomplished, he has not forgotten his origin; that he still takes time out to champion causes in The Bahamas; that he still takes time out to ensure that our tourism product gets the attention that is necessary to cause our numbers to increase,” Minister Campbell said.

“But that is not enough for him.

A beneficiary of Mr. Kravitz’s donation through his ‘Let Love Rule Foundation’ displays one of the gift vouchers distributed by social assistance providers at the Department of Social Services. Officials at the Ministry of Tourism and Aviation also played a role in the initiative.

He helps not just with his talents, but also with his time and treasure and that deserves our appreciation. It is our hope that this would inspire persons at home who are able to, and others in the Diaspora around the globe, to come back home, to look back home, to send back home any sort of assistance that will lighten the burden on some, and that will inspire others to be the best that they can be.”

Minister Campbell said another fascinating aspect of Mr. Kravitz’s “amazing philanthropy” was the fact that the Rock Legend was hesitant about receiving publicity surrounding the multiple donations.

“As a matter of fact, we had to almost force him to allow us to thank him publicly because he did not want to receive any kind of public accolades, but the Bahamian people needed to know that he is helping in more ways than one. On behalf of the Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development, on behalf of the Government and people of The Bahamas, on behalf of all of the persons that would have directly benefited from the donation, we wish to applaud his generosity,” Minister Campbell added.

Mr. Kravitz has officially served as the Ministry of Tourism’s Brand Ambassador since 2019, creatively collaborating and starring in The Ministry’s ‘Fly Away’, ‘Still Rockin’ and ‘From The Bahamas With Love’ campaigns.

Tourism officials say his contributions to these campaigns have helped reveal the authentic spirit of The Bahamas as a destination of adventure and discovery. Both campaigns were well received globally.

The Ministry of Tourism and Aviation assisted with the coordination and logistics of the exercise. A

statement issued by the Ministry said: “Mr. Kravitz is a true philanthropist and most of his charitable initiatives go unrecognized. He has been there for The Bahamas in our darkest hour. Lenny used star power to bring awareness of the dire situation in Grand Bahama and The Abacos immediately following Hurricane Dorian in September 2019.

“In addition, for many years through his Let Love Rule Foundation and the GLO Good Foundation, Lenny carried out a marathon dental service mission in the community of Gregory Town, Eleuthera, providing oral health care, education and tools to adults and children in need in order to provide the gift of a healthy smile.

“The Ministry of Tourism was delighted to assist in coordinating the logistics of this exercise which resulted in the Ministry simply handing over the vouchers to the Department of Social Services to carry out their critical work at this time.”

Deputy Director Sawyer said individuals and families benefited from the Kravitz donation “to be as fair and equitable as possible.” She too applauded Mr. Kravitz and his Foundation for their support, adding that the fall-out from the COVID-19 Pandemic has created new scenarios for both regular and new clients.

“It was a big help,” Ms. Sawyer said. “The three basic needs of mankind are: food, shelter and clothing, but food is the priority particularly when you have children or you have medical challenges and have to be placed on a special diet. This donation, along with the assistance we were providing, allowed us to continue to address the immediate needs of those persons in need.”

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Environmental Due Diligence resumes at Disney’s Lighthouse Property

Photo above sourced from: lighthousepointbahamas.com (Disney Cruise Line Lighthouse Point Bahamas Disney Enterprises Inc).

In a communication with business contacts on Eleuthera during June 2020, Kim Prunty, Director of Public Relations with Disney Cruise Line, informed of changes within the management structure of Disney Cruise Line and gave an update on the status of Disney’s work on island - set to restart mid-June.

Jeff Vahle, she said, was no longer serving as the president of Disney Cruise Line, as he had been promoted as president of Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Taking up the position as new president of Disney Cruise Line was, Thomas Mazloum, coming from the position of head of resort operations from Walt Disney World, and previously from Crystal Cruises.

Disney’s work in Eleuthera, shared Prunty, was set to resume during the second week in June, with the crew from a Bahamian company, doing geotech work with Disney, arriving on island on Monday, June 8th, 2020. Pending a “Letter of No Objection” from the Bahamas BEST Commission, the geotech team would be on site beginning the week of June 15th.

Prunty added that all of the landside geotech work had been completed, so the current work would

focus on marine aspects.

She clarified that geotechnical investigations are considered part of environmental due diligence.

Disney’s plans for the work, she said, including an environmental monitor, had been reviewed by the BEST Commission. The Bahamian vendor, BRON, was said to have been able to hire an Eleuthera-based subcontractor as well as several other people residing in Eleuthera to assist with the work.

“Geotechnical investigations,” explained Prunty, “involve taking small core samples of sand and rock, about 3.75 inches – or just over 95 millimeters – in diameter, in places where structures will be built on land and over the water.

The work will avoid any sensitive areas.”

She added, “As part of the marine work, a barge will be positioned off shore to enable the marine-based elements of the review, with careful attention given to preventing impact to coral and other species. This is all outlined in the environmental monitoring plan that BEST reviewed and did not object to. It is located here online: (http:// www.best.gov.bs/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Lighthouse-PointGeotechnical-Document.pdf).”

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is unique and it is important that the selected option for a replacement structure takes advantage of the character of the location for the benefit of the Bahamian people and also visiting tourists. The replacement of the existing bridge crossing provides an opportunity to create a potentially world famous feature that could attract additional tourism benefits. The contract with the consultant Engineers is for $2,040,840.00.

The time period for the consultancy, he said, was partitioned into four phases:- Phase 1 – Feasibility Study (4 months); Phase 2 – Detailed Design (4 months); Phase 3 – Tender Bid Process (3 months); and Phase 4 – Contract Administration (24 months).

OVERDUE: Rock Sound Mailboat and Fisherman’s Dock: Minister Bannister also informed of work to commence on the Rock Sound Mailboat Dock as well as the Fishermen’s Dock in July 2020.

He explained, “Presently the dock is in poor condition with deterioration to the concrete walls, collapsed retaining wall structure and full destruction of the existing bulkhead.

Furthermore the current site is restricted in size and unsuitable to accommodate Roll On/Roll Off vessels. Hence, the dock is in urgent need of repair as the port is a part of the delivery lifeline of the area.”

Minister Bannister continued, “Likewise, the fisherman’s boat dock is in a poor condition as the timber framing was destroyed by the passage of various hurricanes over the

years. Additionally, the concrete approach side walls and slab surface have deteriorated and require repairs.

“The construction works to be undertaken can be summarized as follows: • • • •

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Demolition and removal of existing deteriorated warehouse building.

Installation of 429 linear feet of sheet piles to the mailboat dock Reclamation of 80 foot wide by 100 foot long of seabed.

Construction of reinforced concrete slab area to the main dock area with ro/ro ramp.

Dredging of the seabed to the area in the front of dock wall.

Installation of bollards, cleats, fendering systems and solar lights in the dock area.

Construction of a new 12 foot wide by 220 foot long timber dock.

Concrete repairs to the concrete approach side walls and slab surface to the timber dock Construction of timber gazebo shed and fish cleaning station.

The length of the contract is 40 weeks.

“In May Cabinet approved the award of a contract in the sum of Two Million Eight Hundred and Thirty Four Thousand Four Hundred and Ninety Dollars Sixty Seven Cents ($2,834,490.67) to construct the new dock in Rock Sound Eleuthera. The project is due to commence next month.”

From the Archives: Panel: Panel guests for the August 10th, 2011 town meeting, held at Worker’s House in Governor’s Harbour to discuss plans for a new gymnasium at that time included (L - R) Livingston Forbes, Chief Architect Ministry of Public Works and Transport; Gregory Knowles, South Eleuthera Asst. Administrator; Preston Cunningham, North Eleuthera Administrator; Calvin Balfour, Undersecretary Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture; Charles Maynard, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture; Neko Grant, Minister of Public Works and Transport; Alvin Smith, Speaker of the House of Assembly/North Eleuthera MP; Oswald Ingraham, South Eleuthera MP; Mrs. Elizabeth Keju, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Works and Transport; and Timothy Munnings, Director of Sports.

The Elevations shown on the right were some of the diagrams that accompanied the presentation held a year before the next general election. The Eleuthera audience were told on that date that working construction plans could be completed in October 2011, if the site was agreed on that evening, after which the tender process would begin. It was also said that the new gym would include a 12 to 14 months approximated construction time-line once contracts were finalized and work began.

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Eleuthera Road Repairs and Carriageway rehabilitation project / Spanish Wells Roads: In his budget speech, Minister Bannister also mentioned an Eleuthera road repairs project, saying, “This initiative involves the reconstruction of 15 miles of roads in various sections of the Queen’s Highway across the island in hot mix asphalt. The project cost is $11.1 million.” No timeline was given for this initiative.

Upcoming repairs to roads in Spanish Wells were also announced, estimated to cost $720 thousand. In pea rock and sand seal.

Previously Promised: South Eleuthera Gymnasium: Minister Bannister also spoke of plans for a gymnasium/hurricane shelter in South Eleuthera, saying, “The Ministry of Public Works is planning to construct an all-purpose gymnasium and hurricane shelter in South Eleuthera. The current location of the structure that was started by the community is not ideal, as it will have to be raised 5 to 7 feet to be storm resilient. Our Eleuthera based Engineer will work closely with Member of Parliament Hank Johnson to select the most appropriate site so that we may move ahead expeditiously.”

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June/July, 2020

Caribbean among countries unfairly targeted by US Senators over Cuba

By Sir Ronald Sanders (The writer is Ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to the United States and the Organisation of American States. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies at the University of London and at Massey College in the University of Toronto. The views expressed are entirely his own) Three U.S. Senators, who have done little to advance the interests of the Caribbean and with whom requests for meetings by many Caribbean Ambassadors are usually shunted to their staff, are now proposing U.S. government punishment

for Caribbean countries that request assistance from Cuba for medical personnel.

The three Senators are all members of the Republican Party. Two of them represent Florida – Marco Rubio and Rick Scott - and the other, Ted Cruz, is a Senator from Texas. Senators Rubio and Cruz have strong Cuban heritage and are known to be virulently opposed to the Cuban government. Senator Scott is a former Governor of Florida and has been a senatorial representative of the State since 2019, having run a campaign wooing the significant Cuban-American population.

On June 17, the three Senators introduced in the U.S. Senate, the “Cut Profits to the Cuban Regime Act”, which, if it is adopted, will penalise any government, worldwide, that contracts with the Cuban government for the provision of medical personnel. Since many Caribbean governments have such contracts with Cuba, they all stand to be targeted.

Among the measures that the Bill, sponsored by the three Senators, seeks to impose are “a requirement that the Department of State publishes the list of

countries that contract with the Government of Cuba for their medical missions program”, and that the contracts be considered “as a factor in considering that country’s ranking for Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report”.

In other words, these three U.S. Senators are seeking to disregard the sovereign right of other countries to enter arrangements with Cuba. In any event, a principle of international law and norms is being casually disdained, as if the rights of States do not matter.

The Senators also show a remarkable indifference to the critical public health emergency confronted by all Caribbean countries, particularly now in the seemingly endless era of the COVID-19 pandemic and its disastrous effects.

Had the three Senators considered a discussion with Caribbean representatives before they introduced their Bill, they would have learned that, for many countries of the Caribbean, the presence of Cuban medical personnel has made a huge and beneficial difference to their capacity to manage COVID-19 and its spread. It is no exaggeration to say that, without the Cuban medical personnel, the medical system of several Caribbean countries would have collapsed.

The Senators would also have been reminded that the United States, despite all its great resources, found it difficult – and are still finding it difficult – to respond to the demands that the pandemic has placed on its public health system.

If the U.S. cannot cope, how would any objective person believe that the Caribbean can do so without help?

Further, the Senators might have considered what assistance the U.S. provided to the region in terms of the medical personnel that they urgently needed and continue to need.

Senator Scott is reported to have said that “Any country that requests medical assistance from Cuba is aiding their human trafficking efforts”, because, in his view, Cuban medical personnel sent abroad are “forced labour”. Caribbean countries have had no experience that substantiates this opinion. Indeed, Cuban medical personnel have conducted themselves with professionalism, integrating well with lo-

cal medical teams and passing-on their knowledge and experience. Caribbean countries have no basis for believing that the medical personnel are “forced labour”. But, if the government of any country believes this claim to be true, there are international bodies to which it can be taken, and evidence proffered in support of a decision to uphold the allegation.

Caribbean representatives would have encouraged the Senators to pursue such a definitive course of action, which all governments would have respected. One attempt to internationalise this claim by a private European-funded group came to nothing.

Had they had the chance to do so, Caribbean representatives would have reminded the three Senators that COVID-19, in addition to being a public health emergency, is wrecking the economies of Caribbean countries, some more severely than others but all without exception. They are now confronted with their greatest economic challenge.

Government revenues have dropped drastically, expenditures have increased extraordinarily, and employment and poverty are expanding rapidly. In all this, there has been a poor response from richer countries that could have helped.

The Caribbean needed to get COVID-19 under control not only to save lives in their communities, but also to salvage their economic prospects, now and in the future.

Cuba has provided Caribbean countries with medical assistance for over 30 years; the present contingent of Cuban personnel is not a new development. These arrangements have been formally negotiated and set out in contracts. Further, Caribbean governments have knowledge of the circumstances of Cuban medical personnel because for three decades, Caribbean doctors have trained in Cuba on scholarships that richer neighbouring states have not offered.

Until and unless other Governments step up to help, Caribbean governments will be constrained to get assistance from where they can, including Cuba.

The Senators would also have been advised that most Caribbean countries have worked closely and well with the U.S. government to curb human trafficking.

An attempt to mar this cooperative work by introducing a political dimension to it – particularly a very narrow one – would be tragic. A conversation with the Senators would be welcome.

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DON’T HIT THE ROOF Hurricane season opened June 1 and every homeowner in Eleuthera should be prepared by now in the event of a major storm.

Five words. That’s all it takes to make even the most stoic homeowner cringe.

“You need a new roof.”

Worse even than tenting for termites, a new roof is definitely bad news. It’s expensive, it’s disruptive and it’s a darn nuisance.

If you have missing shingles, or your roof has split seams and broken, cracked or curled shingles, it may be a good idea to get a roof inspection.

These are warning shouldn’t be ignored.

signs

that

Dents or bruises on asphalt shingles also are an indication of possible damage.

Asphalt shingles are coated with tiny granules to protect the roof from UVrays. A build-up of these particles in gutters is another sign of deterioration.

I know. You think maybe you can put it off for another year, especially as it may be difficult to find a roofer at this time.

It’s your call. Just remember, an above-normal 2020 Atlantic hurricane season is expected.

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Centre, a division of the National Weather Service, predicts a 60% chance of an above-normal season.

BRACE YOURSELF: Repairing or re-shingling a roof is noisy. Unless you want a headache from the hammering, plan to be away from home during work hours.

Commentary-

Consider your pets.

the rest of the world – needs cooperation in improving the human condition; what it does not need is coercion for political purposes.

A Caribbean conversation with the Senators would be welcome.

RETURN ON INVESTMENT: Don’t expect to recoup the amount you spend on a new roof if you’re planning to sell your home. Buyers expect the roof to be in a good condition.

The lowest quote isn’t necessarily the best. Ask for references and if you are in doubt, follow up and confirm they are legitimate.

If you can, it’s a good idea to invest in good grade material, especially if you don’t have any immediate plans to move. First off, your roof will sport a nice “architectural” look and be more attractive.

Costs will vary according to the type of roof and material required. For instance, steep roofs take more time and material to cover than flat roofs. This may be an opportunity to deal with any plumbing pipe issues you may have, or problems relating to a skylight if you have one.

There are various grades of shingles.

Asphalt roofing shingles make up the lion’s share of roofing materials in residential roofing. They are relatively easy to install and cost less than other roofing types.

Architect shingles, also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, are high quality and have a longer life.

There are even 50-year shingles – the longest warranty offered.

Aluminum is usually used to seal the joints where roof meets wall or another roof. Copper flashing is more durable and expensive.

HURRICANE STRAPS: This is a good time to make sure your home’s rafters have metal hurricane clips properly attached to the roof plate.

There should be two clips per rafter end, one on the left, one on the right, secured with the adequate number of nails, as indicated by the perforated holes in the metal plate. Make sure the wood they’re anchored to isn’t rotten or termite infested.

Ronald Sanders

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By Mike Lightbourn

Roofing is expensive. Get a job quote from a few reputable contractors if possible and make sure they will be around to supervise the work.

Obviously, this does not apply to contractors you have already established a good working relationship with.

Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com (The writer is Ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to the United States and the Organisation of American States. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies at the University of London and at Massey College in the University of Toronto. The views expressed are entirely his own)

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Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com

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Given the expense and disruption associated with putting on a new roof, it makes more sense to invest in a longer lasting product if you can. Properly installed, you shouldn’t have to worry about a new roof for a long time – if ever again.

Questions or comments?

Contact me at info@cbbahamas.com Mike Lightbourn is president of Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty.

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Teri M. Bethel

Battling Substance Abuse in Marriage Of all the crazy goals we can come up with, I have never heard of anyone planning to become a substance abuser. If you were to chat with someone who has recognized that they do have an addiction to drugs or alcohol, they would probably tell you that their consumption was initially because of peer pressure and later to fill an emotional or spiritual void.

Some may even recognize that alcohol and drug use was an unfortunate strain in their family, something that has affected their people for generations. In some cases, however, it was a case of a dependency on a legitimately prescribed pain medication. The users eased into it and somehow found themselves stuck—like the frog in the pot scenario. It is said that if you were to toss a frog in a pot of hot water, it would attempt to jump out, but if you took the same frog and placed him in a pan with colder water, over gradual heat, there is no cause for alarm, so it gets cooked.

How Addiction Affects Relationships Many substance abusers are in denial. They simply refuse to acknowledge that they have a dependency on their drug of choice. Others quibble with the definition of alcoholism or drug addiction, claiming that they are users because they enjoy the substance. It is something they say can be stopped at any time.

Despite the fact that the spouse of a substance abuser claims that life with an abuser is horrific, it is fair to say that living with a sober spouse can also have its share of challenges. The usual complaint being the sober spouse is overbearing, controlling, judgemental, and unkind. This is a gripe when the addicted spouse believes the sober spouse has played a part in driving them to drink in some way. Though this may not be factual, it is a perception they have embraced as their reality.

3. Have you ever felt Guilty about drinking?

•

Cravings, or a strong desire to use alcohol.

4. Have you ever felt you needed a drink first thing in the morning (Eye-opener) to steady your nerves or to get rid of a hangover?

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Being unable to fulfill major obligations at home, work, or school because of alcohol use.

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Continuing to abuse alcohol despite negative interpersonal or social problems that are likely due to alcohol use.

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Giving up previously enjoyed social, occupational, or recreational activities because of alcohol use.

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Using alcohol in physically dangerous situations (such as driving or operating machinery).

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Continuing to abuse alcohol despite the presence of a psychological or physical problem that is probably due to alcohol use.

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Having a tolerance (i.e. needing to drink increasingly large or more frequent amounts of alcohol to achieve the desired effect).

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Developing symptoms of withdrawal when efforts are made to stop using alcohol.

General Indications of Drug Use Drug users have some similar indicators as an alcoholic, but there are some slight nuances for general use detection such as: • Not wearing clean or well-presented clothing • Poor grooming and personal hygiene •

It is necessary for the sober spouse to understand that it is not possible to ultimately help someone who does not recognize that there is a problem in the first instance or someone who does not want to be helped. When there is a sincere indication that assistance is required, then the sober spouse should have an actionable plan ready to assist with minimal effort.

Casual Drinker or Addict Not all drinkers have the same tolerance levels. Some may claim intoxication after two servings of alcohol when others may claim to feel a buzz after six. The tolerance level is not an indication of whether a person has a dependence on the substance.

CAGED is a questionnaire sometimes used by professional therapists when screening people 18 and over, to determine whether or not they have a drinking problem. The designers of this system say that having two or more answers in the affirmative is an indication that there is indeed a problem: 1. Have you ever felt you needed to Cut down on your drinking?

2. Have people Annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?

Decreased attention span

• A change in rest and sleeping patterns •

Higher levels of agitation

•

A change in personal values

Drug users tend to have hallucinogenic encounters; their moods spiral from highs to lows with deep depression courting their every move. More specific indicators are bloodshot eyes for marijuana users. Opiates like narcotic painkillers and heroin generally cause the pupils to shrink, and cocaine, ecstasy, and LSD causes the pupils to expand.

Indicators for Alcohol Disorders Alcohol.org sets the following areas as indicators for someone with a drinking disorder. Anyone experiencing any two of the items listed below within a 12 month period can likely be diagnosed as an alcoholic: •

Using alcohol in higher amounts or for a longer time than originally intended.

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Being unable to cut down on alcohol use despite a desire to do so.

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Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, and recovering from the effects of alcohol.

When Do You Intervene?

Even though patience is essential in the best of relationships, a more considerable amount is necessary when living with a spouse or someone suffering from addictions. Living with an addict requires inner strength, wisdom, and boundless love.

While the addict cries, “if you love me, you’ll let me,” the sober spouse cries, “because I love you, I won’t let you.” The two then become at odds with each other.

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The important take away for you, whether you are a substance abuser or someone living with or married to a substance abuser is, they are all human beings who need help, hope, and love, not a judgment from you. Even though boundaries should be established to respect your home, living life as an abuser is imprisonment of its own sort. Nevertheless, you should avoid being an enabler, and you must learn to walk away or not answer every attack if you wish to deescalate a problem. Focus on your mental, physical, and spiritual help if you are going to survive this storm. Consider getting professional advice, whether or not the addicted spouse cares to seek help. Remember that the choice to live is a gift each person must accept for themselves.

A uthor :

Teri M Bethel is a publisher and an author of relationship enrichment books, which include: Before We Say, I Do… and My Marriage Matters. She has also published romance and adventure novels, purse making, and fabric painting DVDs that seek to entertain, empower, and promote healthy lifestyles for adults and children. Her books are available where good books are sold in Eleuthera and New Providence. Additionally, Teri provides a free online directory for local authors to showcase their family-friendly books. She and her husband have two adult sons. Visit her website, www.BooksByBethel.com, or e-mail her at tbethel@booksbybethel.com.

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Young Man in Governor’s Harbour Reported Missing Trevaughn Edwards, a 25-year-old man, was reported missing by his godfather to Police in Governor’s Harbour on Friday morning, June 5th, 2020.

Trevaughn was said to have left his home in Governor’s Harbour for work on Wednesday morning, June 3rd, and reportedly did not return, and had not been seen since then.

The 25-year-old, confirmed Police, was originally from New Providence, and had moved to Eleuthera.

Authorities on the island say

that an active investigation into the disappearance of the young man is currently ongoing.

Trevaughn is described as being of a dark brown complexion, standing at between 5ft 6in to 5ft 9in, with a slim build.

The public is asked to contact the Criminal Investigation Division at 502-9991/2 or any of the following contact numbers: Police Emergency - 911, National Crime Prevention Office - 302-8430/1, Crime Stoppers - 328-8477 (Family Islands - 1-242-300-8476).

Notice

Local Government Elections postponed FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 2, 2020 The Ministry of Transport and Local Government wishes to announce the postponement of the Local Government elections in keeping with the Emergency Powers, (COVID19) (Special Provision) (Amendment) (No. 5) Order 2020, Section No. 3.

The elections will now be held within three months of the cessation of the Emergency Powers Orders.

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June/July, 2020

Unexpected Visitors In The Exuma Sound By: CEI

The unique pattern of markings, scars, or fin notches can be used to identify individual animals. The short-finned pilot whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus) pictured here has been photographed by CEI researchers twice in the past year.

After spotting a dwarf sperm whale leaping out of the water in June 2018, the Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI) began conduct-

Two humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) spotted in shallow waters near Deep Creek, Eleuthera in March. The last recorded humpback sighting in the Exuma Sound was in 2009.

ing weekly marine mammal surveys to understand the distribution and abundance of whale and dolphin species in the deep waters

southwest of Eleuthera.

Over the past two years, CEI’s pelagic research team, also referred to as the Exuma Sound Ecosystem Research Project (EXERP), has documented locations and individual identification photographs for species ranging from small Atlantic spotted dolphins to much larger sperm whales.

In the first week of March, prior to our campus closing due to COVID-19, CEI added the twelfth species to its sightings list: Humpback whales!

These 12 meter (40 feet) long whales were spotted in a pair swimming along the shallow edge of the Exuma Sound, likely migrating to the north Atlantic after having wintered in the warm southern Caribbean. Building our photo ID database be-

comes even more exciting when we encounter animals with long migratory paths because it gives us the opportunity to ‘track’ them through their lives. By collaborating with marine mammal research groups across the Caribbean and eastern United States, we can begin to use these photos to piece together the migratory routes of different whales. Many of them have unique markings or permanent scars that allow us to match photos and identify individual animals.

This encounter was entirely unexpected, as Humpback whales haven’t been spotted in the waters surrounding Eleuthera in more than a decade, and helps us to understand just how diverse the surrounding environment truly is.

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Kiwanis Facilitates Food Voucher Donation Initiates Growing Hot Meals Program

From Tuesday, June 2nd, 2020 up to Thursday, June 12th, 2020, members of the Kiwanis Club of South Eleuthera were busy as they facilitated the dissemination of $20,000 worth of grocery vouchers to families in need throughout South Eleuthera, from Savannah Sound to Bannerman town.

The $20,000 donation received from the Windermere Island Foundation, to give back to and provide vital support to the communities in South Eleuthera, during this challenging time, benefited 250 families, who received an $80 grocery voucher, which were redeemable in four local grocery stores in South Eleuthera, including, Midway Cost Cutters in Savannah Sound, Your Friendly Store in Tarpum Bay, The MarketPlace in Rock Sound, and Hall Groceries in Rock Sound.

President of the Kiwanis Club of South Eleuthera, Nathalie Russell, in a brief interview with The Eleutheran on June 11th, 2020, accompanied

by Vice President, Margarita Culmer, shared that the main goal of the Foundation’s donation was to provide support in the form of groceries to people and families, especially those with children, who had been affected by the pandemic, and were no longer working.

Margarita commented that the reaction by most families in receipt was awe and appreciation, saying, “The families are really hurting in South Eleuthera. They are very appreciative of the gesture and alot of them stressed they wanted us to pass that appreciation on to the Windermere Foundation.

So, they were truly happy and blessed.”

The Kiwanis, as a service based Club, was also otherwise occupied since the lockdown and emergency orders period began in March, touching another vital demographic in need, with a ‘Hot Meals’ initiative on Sundays, said Russell and Culmer. “It began with us reaching into the community of Rock

Sound at first. You have quite a number of elderly persons who are home alone without family members to provide hot meals for them. So the program really started with us trying to reach out to those persons, during the lockdown period, who needed to have someone who could have provided a hot meal for them. From Rock Sound, it branched off into the other settlements, and then we had some of the other members in the Club actually participating in Tarpum Bay, Deep Creek, and it has branched off now to the whole of the south.”

The Police they pointed out have been invaluable in assisting the Kiwanis Club with delivery of the meals, especially during the lockdown period.

On one weekend, the Kiwanis actually expanded the program to include the visiting boaters that were stuck in the Rock Sound Harbour.

Funding for the Club initiative to-date, said Culmer, had come from a collaboration with the Rock Sound Homecoming Committee and Kiwanis members digging into their pockets. Commenting on whether it had been difficult so far to get members and other to contribute to the program, VP Culmer replied, “Actually, no, the Club is geared to looking out for others. The members are committed to service, so they are actually providing, and all it takes is a call to say we are going to feed this settlement this week, and it is all a matter of ‘what is it you need me to do’. Not even, how will I get these items or where - it’s really just from the heart.”

The Kiwanis Club of South Eleuthera, which expected to have up to 33 members by the end of June 2020, as a result of several new installations since the service activities during the pandemic, emphasized that they welcome anyone who is inter-

ested in joining the Club, who has a heart and a passion to serve their community. “We are doing virtual meetings now, so interested persons can reach out to any one of our Kiwanis members, or join our facebook page and communicate their interest. We will be happy to have you as a part of it. We are really looking for those committed persons who really care, and who really want to make a difference.”

During this time of pandemic, President Nathalie Russell said they have realized that Eleutherans are really hurting. “We would like to continue with our food bank (hot meals) and our pantry (a grocery cupboard for those in need that we can provide a package of goods from for them). Eventually we will get to the point where we will be doing food drives and things like that - so that we can build our cupboard so we would be able to support the demand.”

The Club leaders also voiced their desire to attract people from settlements beyond south Eleuthera, so their work could encompass even more of the island. They expressed an appreciation for their introduction to some of the technology that allowed members to stay in touch virtually during the lockdown period, saying that it may also be a way of expanding the Club and its initiatives to the rest of the island, without the need for members to travel far distances to all meet in one place or the other.

Beneficiaries of the generous grocery vouchers were said to have been very appreciative..

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Mass Food Giveaway - A Community Effort spearheaded by C&SE MP Johnson took relief supplies to Abaco. Then we did it for Abaconians, and this time we did it for us.” Hygiene kits and blankets were among the items given away that Monday, to senior citizens as well.

More food giveaways will take place in the coming weeks said MP Johnson, with venues further north as well as further

south, to reach as many people as possible. “When we come together, this is what we can do. Where there is unity there is strength. Once we put aside all of our differences, we can move mountains - and this is an example moving forward - that if we unite ourselves, this is what we can do.

A large group of volunteers assisted with the food giveaway, arriving early in the morning to begin organizing the packages of food stuffs. Above: Volunteers from Rock Sound take a short break for a smile.

On Monday, June 8th, 2020, Member of Parliament for South Eleuthera, Stephen Hank Johnson, spearheaded a mass food giveaway, targeting Eleuthera residents in need from Gregory Town to Bannerman Town. Tents were erected on the grounds of the community park in Savannah Sound, and scores of volunteers, said MP Johnson, showed up as early as 7am to assist with sorting and packaging parcels of groceries, meats, along with fruit and vegetable produce for residents who pulled up in their vehicles, and had the packages delivered to their back trunks as other residents lined up to receive frozen goods.

MP Johnson, commented on the day’s initiative, saying, “Today has been a day when we’ve been able to come together as a community. This is truly a community effort.

Many came together in an ef-

fort to make this happen. We all put our resources together, and that is how come we are here. This is a food drive for every individual throughout Central and South Eleuthera. I want to thank One Eleuthera in particular, who reached out and assisted, along with quite a number of private home owners, as well as the North Eleuthera Shopping Center. We also had a large group of women volunteers, who came out early this morning to assist and serve their community.

That is what you have here, alot of community effort.”

The reason for the food giveway, said MP Johnson, was to assist families in Eleuthera affected by the adverse economic fallout from the pandemic. “Alot of families needed assistance, and we saw the need for it.

That’s why we pulled a group together, similar to what we did after Dorian, when we

Notice Virtual Bahamas National High School Diploma Ceremony Planned The Ministry of Education in June announced plans to host a virtual Bahamas National High School Diploma ceremony for Public High School Seniors on Tuesday, July 7th, 2020 at 8pm, to be streamed live via the Ministry of Education’s Facebook page: https://web.facebook.com/ministryofeducationbah/

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Family Home destroyed by Fire on Cupid’s Cay what smelled like fire, so, I sent the little boy into Mama’s room, because I smelled smoke. He went in the room, and he said to me, no Ms. Sands, I don’t see any smoke. But, I said, I smell smoke.

So, I ran inside the bedroom, and inside the closet was in flames,” shared Shantell, as she stood standing in front of the burnt out home in a state of disbelief. “That is the fastest I’ve ever seen fire move in my life.”

According to Ms. Sands, everyone in the home at the time of the fire, which she confirmed started shortly after 2pm, made it out safely. Police were contacted

once everyone inside had escaped the fire, and local volunteer fire services arrived on scene a short time thereafter, and got to work extinguishing the blaze.

The devastating fire took less than an hour to completely destroy the Delancy home. The 89-yearold homeowner had just recently returned to Eleuthera during the past week, after having spent the three-month lock down period with family members in New Providence.

The destroyed Delancy home, less than an hour after the blaze first began.

During the mid-afternoon on Saturday, June 20th, members of the community on Cupid’s Cay in Governor’s Harbour, Central Eleuthera, stood watching, safe distances away from the searing heat emanating from a home which had been reduced to a burnt shell of walls, as emergency fire services put out the last embers of

flames, which had sent black plumes of smoke high into the sky, visible miles away.

Shantell Sands, a granddaughter of the homeowner - 89-year-old, Ella Delancy - described the beginning moments of the harrowing experience, which had left her grandmother distraught, but alive. “I was in the kitchen, doing conch fritters, and I smelled

Black smoke rising up from the Cay as the tragic fire consumed the Family Home.

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First Ministry Facilitates Needed Chair Donation - Starting at Tarpum Bay Primary needed, they were able to affirm the need existed in a number of schools in South Eleuthera. Other schools, Mrs. Ingraham shared, would also be recipients of a number of chairs, during the next few months, with about 150 in total to be distributed.

Diane Carey, Acting Principal at the Tarpum Bay primary school, in response to the generous donation of furniture, commented, “We are so excited to have had these chairs donated to the school. They were so much needed, especially in our computer room Above: Acting Principal, Diane Carey (center right), with Mrs. Lashal Ingraham (center left), along with several dedicated teachers at the Tarpum Bay Primary School, showcasing the newly donated computer room chairs (front left), teacher chairs (front right), and old staff chairs being happily replaced (front center).

On June 15th, a drippy, but delightful Monday, at the Tarpum Bay primary school, where teachers were back in their classrooms preparing end of year report cards for students, as the formal days of virtual instruction came to an end for summer break - First Ministry, based in Tarpum Bay and led by Pastor Diallo Ingraham and his wife, Lashal Ingraham, made a special delivery, which was warmly welcomed and appreciated by administrators and teachers on hand to receive them. More than three dozen comfy, high quality office and computer room chairs were

taken off the delivery truck and excitedly arranged in rooms, in much need of them.

Mrs. Ingraham, explaining how it had come about, said that it all started after an ongoing First Ministry initiative they began at the school about four and a half years ago, called ‘Feed the lambs’, where they came in and ministered with the children, and also provided breakfast.

She said they at that time noticed the need for the chairs. So when they were called by a US based donor called Naples Organizing Bahamas Support, about whether chairs were

where we didnt have any chairs at all. I am sure that when the students come back, they will also be excited to see those new chairs, with wheels inside the computer room.”

19 chairs, said Ms. Carey, were delivered for the Tarpum Bay Primary computer room, and 12 chairs were delivered for the teachers. An additional 10 chairs were also provided for the Spanish room at the school, bringing the total number of chairs received by the school to 41.

Inspired Anna Lewis’ -

A Life of Poetry

Anna L. Lewis, a young woman who resides in James Cistern with her husband, Jeremy Lewis and family has released a new book of poetry, titled, ‘Thoughts of a Thinker - Life of Poetry’. This book, Anna’s first publication, which she describes as relatable and reflective, invites her readers to see themselves and to be encouraged. She recently sat down and chatted with The Eleutheran about the drive and inspiration behind her new set of works.

How long have you been writing poetry?

All through high school, I wrote poetry. I didn’t keep up with it, but it was something that I did, because I could. I started again just one here and one there over the years, so I would say since high school...

Can you remember your first poem of note?

I cannot remember the first one that I wrote, but the one where I reignited my inspiration - which actually started the book - it was for Valentine’s Day. It was near midnight on the eve of Valentine’s Day last year, and it was the first one that I had written in many years. That got the creative juices flowing.

Above: The computer room at Tarpum Bay Primary School, now fully outfitted with new ergonomic chairs, awaiting the return of students in September 2020.

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Page. 20 When

did you

know that you wanted to publish a book of poetry?

After I wrote the poem last year about Valentine’s Day, from that time, I just had the inspiration to write. Let me just say firstly - I was in a place where I was feeling, ‘What is my purpose? Why am I alive? What are my giftings? Everyone else is good at something. ‘Cause I’m active in church, I have a job, I live in a community, and I do community work, and all of that. But, what am I good at? What can be tied to Anna’s name?’ And I just sat on my bed one night and I prayed to God, asking Him to show me what I am good at - to show me what is my purpose for living. That was my prayer, and this was a week or two after writing that Valentine’s Day piece.

It still hadn’t hit me yet. But, after that prayer, I just got inspiration. If I sat on the beach and looked at the water I got inspiration. I would hear a song - I got inspiration. I would see dogs walking along the road, and get inspiration. So, everyday, after saying that prayer. Everything just gave me this inkling to write, it gave me a topic - conversations, situations - it was like, wow - and it just stirred up the passion to just write.

How

would

you

describe

your

style of poetry?

I basically write about life situations. Stuff that people may be afraid to speak about or people who may think that they are going through things alone. It’s relatable, stuff that’s relatable to different people - men, boys, young girls especially. I have a passion for young people. So, alot of what I write about is relatable. The reason why I chose the name, ‘Thoughts of a Thinker A Life of Poetry’ is because I think, alot. Sometimes I think, I think too much. But, you can find - based on whatever situation you are going through or dealing with - things can turn around. So, you can turn pain into poetry, and that’s what I did with alot of everything that I’ve been through, and what other people have gone through. I kind of turned it around and flipped it into poetry.

What does your poetry mean for you?

For me, the poetry that I’ve written, represents alot of joy, when I speak about love, the gives and takes in relationships and being married. Having hurt in the past, I speak alot about that - forgiveness. Also, molestation - I have a

piece in my book, ‘I Was Young Like You’, and it basically gives sort of a testimony of myself being young, and I break it down in poetry - ‘being young like you, I know what you are going through - and I just kind of brought it home. Also, spiritual renewal, with pieces drawing from the crucifixion and resurrection.

There are also playful pieces too.

I have one that I like, ‘Child’s Play’, which took me back to growing up on the island, because I grew up on Andros, and just the things we take for granted now. I see alot of young people, they have phones in their hands all the time. Back then we used to live to go on the Bay. I lived right across from the water, and we couldn’t wait until sun up, when morning came to hit the sand.

Also, bat and ball, marbles, running races on the road. Stuff like that, I speak about in that piece. So, there is alot that is personal to me, but its relatable to everybody. There is also one that I did, ‘My Bahamaland’, that I presented in church during last year’s Independence. So, there is a wide range of slices of life.

Where

do you draw the inspira-

tion from for your poetic works?

I feel people, and I don’t know if that is a gift or a curse. I’m a very sensitive person, and I feel their emotions. When someone is going through something, and I see them, I can almost read them and I listen well too. So alot of times I can feel their emotions, their anger, what they are going through - and I’m motivated to just write. It sounds like I write alot of sad stuff or problem stuff - but also alot of motivational stuff, like keep pushing, keep going, you can make it, don’t give up. So, yes, I get motivation from people, but also things like music.

I often write late at night, after midnight, when the house is quiet - I would put my inspirational music on, and the creative juices start to flow.

How would you describe the compilation of poems you have in your new book as a whole?

I would say, reflective. It allows you to search yourself...

What do you want people to come away with after reading your poems?

I would want people to come away with the fact that they are not alone. If they are going through something, they are not alone. Everyone has a struggle - something that they’ve been through or going to go through. I just want them to know that someone can relate to what they are going through, and to be encouraged. I just want to mo-

The Eleutheran

tivate people, and let them know hey, don’t give up. God is on your side. He sees and knows all that you are going through - just keep pushing...

How

can people get their hands

on your new book of poetry?

I have a new order of hard copies arriving on island, so people can contact me directly, as I’m taking orders now. Alternatively, they can purchase my book ‘Thoughts of a Thinker - Life of Poetry’ on amazon.com (both a paperback version and a kindle version), as well as on kobo.com.

Anna, whose Eleuthera roots lay in Tarpum Bay, moved to Eleuthera in 2001 with her husband, Jeremy, who hails from James’ Cistern. She continues to write, and says she is well on her way into volume two of her poetry run. She has a book launch on Eleuthera set to take place on a ‘still to be announced’ date in July at the Big Rock Restaurant in James’ Cistern. Reach out to Anna directly at 812-4933.

Author: Anna L. Lewis (Thoughts of a Thinker Life of Poetry).

BJC and BGCSE National Examinations To Be Held, Beginning July 13th Despite the closure of schools in The Bahamas due to the Corona virus pandemic, the Minister of Education, the Hon. Jeffrey Lloyd, underscored that the educational system has performed an “admirable” job in ensuring that students continue to receive vital instruction.

While it does not replace face-to-face instruction in this situation, Minister Lloyd said it is difficult to argue that it wasn’t or isn’t a very “acceptable” alternative.

In the midst of social media buzz regarding the announced start of national examinations, Minister Lloyd has confirmed that the Bahamas Junior Certificate (BJC) and Bahamas General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE) examinations will be carried out beginning July 13, 2020.

Minister Lloyd addressed a

virtual press conference Monday morning, June 8, 2020 that was attended by MOE officials including Lorraine Armbrister, Permanent Secretary; Marcellus Taylor, Director; Julian Anderson, Deputy Director; and Seretha Clarke Undersecretary.

The Minister said: “It had always been the intention of the Ministry to conduct external exams if conditions permitted.

This is why it was repeatedly stated that the exams were postponed, not cancelled. We stated this from the beginning of the national lockdown. Students were advised the lockdown didn’t mean a vacation from school. Public Service Announcements (PSAs) and other media announcements made this plain and clear.”

Minister Lloyd pointed out: “The decision to hold exams was not an easy one. We realize that P42

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June/July, 2020

DS shares thoughts on Education In the Time of Coronavirus - as school terms wrap up

District Superintendent of Education for the Eleuthera District, Mr. Michael Culmer. (File photo)

The 2019/2020 education school year ended very differently than expected for students across the education gamut, from pre-school to tertiary institutions throughout the Bahamas.

In Eleuthera, primary and high school students all got a taste of homeschooling during the three month lock down period beginning on March 15th, when classroom instruction halted, and in June received formal report cards representing their work up to the midMarch closure, with internal end of year exams canceled by the Bahamas Ministry of Education (MOE). National examinations, however, as announced by MOE in June, would be held, beginning on July 13th, 2020.

In an interview during the week of ‘Report Card Day’ in June, District Superintendent of Education for Eleuthera, Mr. Michael Culmer answered questions about some of the challenges experienced during the unexpected time away from classrooms in the Eleuthera District, preparation for upcoming national examinations on the island, and plans for the new school year - set to begin on August 31st, 2020.

In answer to how schools in Eleuthera fared overall during the adjustments that had to be made during the pandemic classroom closure, Mr. Culmer shared, “I’m proud to say that when the Prime Minister announced his emergency orders, we had very proac-

tive principals here, who took it upon themselves to organize remote and virtual learning in all the schools. In many of the schools, the teachers went in on the Monday, gathering up workbooks, and dropped them off at the students’ houses. They established Zoom, and Google classrooms, and several other education applications were used. Also, where kids didn’t have the technology, WhatsApp groups were created by teachers to contact parents. In some schools, teachers would record their lessons and share them with the group.

Parents would take photos of completed assignments - teachers would mark them and send them back. We were also keeping track of the data. All schools on the island were engaged primary, secondary, and all age.

“Some schools were not as fully engaged as I would have liked, but we had very high 70’s in the percentage of students engaged, on average, and it was consistent. Every week, I would get a virtual report from each of the schools, identifying those teachers who would have participated, topics that they would have covered, and the number of students they would have had engaged throughout the week. To add to that, the Ministry of Education very quickly had the online virtual learning program available. We had six educators on this island who were a part of the instruction in that program, and for the most part that was used as supplementary learning to what was going on here in the schools on the island.”

He continued, “We stayed connected also as schools. We had virtual meetings with administrators every two weeks. Principals were also encouraged to have their virtual meetings with their teachers every week - just to maintain those connections. So, persons would know that we were all going through this together and we were going to come out of this. But, we wanted to make sure that we would come out in the best possible position, given the adverse situation.”

Mr. Culmer was also asked about how the promotion of students would be handled for the new year, seeing that classroom instruction had ended in March, and not 100% of students participated or had the opportunity to particiP23

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Page. 22 pate in virtual learning options. He commented, “Looking at the virtual program, one of the concerns was how were we going to recognize the work done by students in the virtual program. Once work was finished for the term, Principals on the island took the decision that there would be no penalty for those students who could not participate. But, we are going to be awarding certificates in all of the schools, making sure that those students who did participate are recognized for their proficiency, participation and more. We will be following guidelines from the Ministry of Education which will be coming up soon, as to how to recognize their accomplishment.

“Also, the Minister of Education and the Director of Education has been saying that the Ministry’s virtual learning program will continue throughout the summer holidays. So, wherever parents may feel their students have weaknesses, they will be in a position to be able to continue to use the virtual learning program.

When a parent visits the online program, there are grade levels, terms and topics - where they can go and pull up subjects for students who are struggling, and

ed uc at i on b e at begin from there. The program affords them the opportunity for that supplementary instruction to shore up those areas where their student may be weak. All the lessons were recorded, so parents who may have had an issue with a device during the lock down, and now have a device going into the summer holidays, can now use those devices to go back over the lessons that would have been done. The key will be to monitor what your student is doing - yes, schedule play time, and schedule in relaxation, but they will also want to ensure that those skills that were deficient while out of the classroom are worked on.”

Mr. Culmer also informed that 150 tablets and mifi devices had been donated recently through One Eleuthera Foundation and its partners to select schools throughout Eleuthera based on the special needs of students.

Deep Creek Primary school he added were also the recipients of tablets for each of their students, as a result of a private donation.

“One of the things that we would like to begin to do is to encourage our corporate community to partner. If we are really serious about turning around and improving student performance. If we are really serious about creating a caring culture, then the first step is you have to demonstrate that you care. So, to persons who would want to partner, we are here,” he appealed. Mr. Culmer added that there was a process to receiving such donations, which involved his office communicating donation requests to the Director of Education, who would then respond to the request.

Graduations of any kind have had to be reenvisioned during this time of global pandemic. In Eleuthera, said Mr. Culmer, high schools were encouraged to be creative with ways to celebrate their 2020 Class of graduates, with options like drive through diploma ceremonies, virtual ceremonies, smaller events with 30 people or less and the like, to commemorate the achievement, which would all take place during the final week in June/first week in July. Students who had been steadfastly doing their work since the beginning of the

school year in September of 2019 would have truly benefited, he said, explaining that with school based exams canceled, end of year reports, which typically would have been 60% term grade and 40% exam grade, were now 100% term grade.

“If a student was working, not having to write the end of term exams, meant that their grades were slightly better than they would have normally been. So, the test taking phobias, and the other testtaking factors that impact student performance - they were null and void. Many students got higher grade point averages (gpa’s) than usual. So, also for the National High School Diploma in classes where they may have struggled in the exam, but did well on the term, that was improvement.” The Ministry of Education, said Mr. Culmer, would plan a virtual graduation ceremony for students across the entire Bahamas, the details of which would be released before the end of June.

Commenting on both challenges and opportunities for students following the announcement by the Ministry of Education that national BJC and BGCSE examinations would go ahead for this year, and begin on July 13th, D.S. Culmer said, “Although students were not able to attend a physical classroom, in most cases instruction continued. The only challenge we would have had would have been the completion of some of the coursework, and schools have devised ways of getting it completed, and as we speak, they are finishing them off.

The students are not going to be disadvantaged because of COVID-19. Additionally what we would have done to ensure that we are prepared - we did not wait for the Minister to announce that schools should be ready to receive teachers last week. Schools began preparing right away.

“The Ministry of Education has been proactive throughout this entire process. We met virtually, and had troubleshooting sessions to work out all the scenarios. Prior to the announcement about national examinations, we looked at the COVID-19 protocols, and we are looking at desks and chairs being six feet apart. We have already identified for the entire

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school, how many rooms are going to be necessary if the two largest examinations - BJC and BGCSE are run concurrently.

“Also, given that there are two invigilators in each room - how many invigilators are going to be needed.

We’ve gotten that done. The only thing we are awaiting now is the official timetable, so we can put names to those places. The Ministry of Education is also mindful that teachers are on summer vacation, and they have agreed to pay the invigilators a stipend. So, persons have to apply to be invigilators. As forms come this way, we are looking at who is eligible, as invigilators, and runners to ensure the integrity and validity of the examinations.”

When asked about what parents and students could expect when school reopens at the end of August, Mr. Culmer explained that the Ministry of Education had not yet said anything definitively, but that schools in Eleuthera would be prepared.

“School begins in September and we are still awaiting a policy - we are still awaiting a decision. However that’s done, in the Eleuthera District we are not going to be running from behind trying to make up. Our buildings are going to be clean. Our staff is going to be trained, and we are going to be ready.

“Currently there are committees that have been commissioned, and I’m serving on one of those national committees. We will be looking at our COVID-19 protocols for education and just had a meeting today. The protocols for September involve more than just what our students are going to be doing. It’s going to now speak to what our campus is going to look like, what instruction is going to be like, how long it will be, whether it’s going to be on or off campus - all of these things. So, until such time as a definitive policy comes down, I’m unable to confirm any information on that.”

To parents and students, Mr. Culmer, emphasized, “We are in this information and technology age - I just want to encourage them that whatever information they circulate, to ensure that it comes from a credible source, and if there are questions, queries or concerns, they can contact the District Office. I also want to let them know that we are partners - education is not a spectator sport - it’s one where we partner and participate. Get involved, stay knowledgeable, demand more, do more and get more.”

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Innovative Entrepreneurs and Farmers Cooperative (IEFC) Forms to Leverage Government Incentives erything done. So, we are definitely on our way.”

The IEFC said Bekera now has eleven paid members, with a newly elected steering committee. “This new committee has persons who are well-qualified and able to do what needs to be done to make this happen... I look forward to us working together as a unit - not just depending on the government to be our backing or to do everything for us, but us networking together with our personal resources and businesses making things happen for ourselves.”

New members present represented a widecross section of the areas and townships across Eleuthera from Deep Creek in the south to Harbour Island in the north. Chairman Taylor further commented on some of the initiatives the group wanted to get started on right away, saying, “Part of our business plan is, other than helping each other and our own personal businesses make money - collectively as a cooperative we are coming together to do various things. One of those is having storefronts - one possibly in Governor’s Harbour, and we are also looking at the Packing House in Hatchet Bay to do things as well.

She continued, “We are also looking at generating funds from pop-up farmer’s markets that we are going to create. One already exists in Harbour Island, and we are considering doing one in Gregory Town and as well as Governor’s Harbour, as well as a location in the south on

different days. We have other projects in the pipeline as well, like creating an almanac calendar for all farmers, as well as connecting with farmers in other islands to close the loop holes for wastage... Because of the various things that we see lacking in our country, we want to be able to help fill that gap in every way that we can. Food security is vitally important for us as Bahamians.”

Mrs. Taylor, added that although most of the current members were farmers, many other areas as entrepreneurs were also represented, and would be focused on by the new collective.

EIO Farms owner and new member, Ed Seigman, commenting following the meeting, said, “Going forward, I would like to see us all sharing resources... When Bekera approached me about the co-op I loved the sound of it, because ‘we’ are smarter than ‘me’ - we are stronger together. We all have lots of ideas that we will be putting forth in the future. I would love to see, all over Eleuthera, when we go into a restaurant, local sodas, local hot sauces, and the like... We have so many talented people, making these amazing things, and they need to be all over and in more places. So, I’m looking forward to working with this group, and acting on some of the ideas we discuss.”

On Friday evening, June 12th, 2020, Eleuthera’s newest collective of farmers and entrepreneurs, the Innovative Entrepreneurs and Farmers Cooperative (IEFC), held their first in-person meeting on the patio at Sunset Inn in Governor’s Harbour to discuss how they would begin to work together to grow their enterprises, while taking advantage of government’s new focus on their industry, and strengthening their network and system of sharing resources.

Chairman of IEFC, Bekera Taylor, explained how they got started, saying, “After the COVID-19 pandemic hit us, the realization kicked into our government that its’ focus should be on farmers. Before that happened, one of my focuses earlier this year was to create an entrepreneurs and farmers association... During the pandemic, Warren Johnson with BAIC contacted me, doing a survey on farmers, what they had, and bringing awareness of the government’s plans and incentives to assist farmers going forward. I learned then that the government preferred to deal with collective groups of farmers rather than individuals. We have scattered farmer’s association now, but none are current or incorporated, so we realized that we needed to make this farmers/entrepreneurs cooperative happen.”

Bekera, said that she set out on the mission of getting the minimum ten people needed to establish the cooperative, “It has been a work in process because of the COVID-19 situation, as we could not meet in person - today is our first face-to-face meeting. However, we’ve been able to establish our bylaws, business plan, and other mandatory requirements. Cheryl Bowe-Moss with the Bahamas Cooperatives Society has also been assisting us to get ev-

Above (L-R): David Allen, Warren Johnson, Elva Nixon, Bekera Taylor, Edgar Seligman, Dorlan Curtis, and Richard Johnson.

Current Members of the IEFC: Deep Creek, Mr. Rodney Thompson - raises hogs, vegetable farming Green Castle, Nora Smith - organic farming Tarpum Bay, Gwendolyn Patram - backyard farmer, and BAMSI representative (Treasurer) Tarpum Bay, David Allen - livestock, backyard farm James Cistern, Warren Johnson - organic and hydroponic farming, BAIC representative (Vice Chairman) Hatchet Bay, Indira Rolle - vegetable farm (Assistant Treasurer) Hatchet Bay, Bekera Taylor - Taylor Made Farm near HB Cave, vegetables/eggs/feed etc... (Chairman) Hatchet Bay, Edgar Seligman/EIO Farm - organic farming, packaging Harbour Island, Richard Johnson (past president of commonage land committee)/Dorlan Curtis (teacher at the Island School) - FoodPost Farm (composting, chickens etc...)

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PM Minnis Update on COVID-19 Emergency Orders and Policies during HOA Budget Address on Monday June 22nd

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis.

During his 2020/2021 Budget Address in the House of Assembly on Monday morning, June 22nd, 2020, Prime Minister The Most Honourable Dr. Hubert Minnis began with an update on the status of COVID-19 Emergency Orders and Policies going forward into July. The excerpt reads as follows: “We are entering Phase 5 of our phased reopening.

The Emergency Powers are to be extended through the month of July 2020.

Effective today, Monday, 22 June 2020, curfew hours are to be amended to 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Businesses may now operate until 8 p.m.

I wish to reiterate that PCR COVID-19 negative tests, and completed health forms will be required of all visitors, Bahamians and residents entering or returning to The Bahamas. These PCR COVID-19 tests have to be taken within a 7 – 10 day window before travel to The Bahamas. An exception to require a negative PCR COVID-19 test will be made for short travel periods of 72 hours or less for Bahamians and residents. However, upon return to The Bahamas these individuals may have to be quarantined for 14 days based on a determination by the Ministry of Health.

Indoor eating at restaurants will be allowed with physical distancing required, sanitization, and mask wearing by all staff at all times, and

patrons when entering and exiting the establishment. Maximum seating will be based on 50 percent occupancy, meaning 30 square feet per person.

Vendors at Arawak Cay may continue outdoor dining, but are not permitted for indoor dining at this time.

Roadside vendors will be standardized to ensure that proper structures, hygiene and sanitization protocols are in place.

Effective Wednesday, 1 July, 2020, gyms and outdoor group exercise may reopen with health safety protocols approved by the Ministry of Health. Spas may reopen with health safety protocols approved by Ministry of Health.

I also wish to announce the opening of public parks and beaches on New Providence, Paradise Island, Grand Bahama and Bimini, effective Monday, 29th June, 2020. Gatherings greater than five people are prohibited.

Funeral services in a church or religious facility may be held with numbers based on the physical distancing protocols established for Saturday/Sunday services. The graveside parts of the services are however, still limited to thirty people, with physical distancing and masks.

There is no need to apply to the Competent Authority for funeral services.

Weddings may be held with numbers based on the physical distancing protocols established for

Saturday/Sunday services. There is no need to apply to the Competent Authority.

Social gatherings in private facilities and homes may be held with up to 20 or less individuals, with physical distancing, sanitization, and mask wearing.

Effective Wednesday, 1st July, 2020, taxi services may resume based on guidelines in the Ministry of Tourism and Aviation’s, Bahamas Tourism Readiness & Recovery Plan.

Private and public bus services may resume, with 50 percent occupancy based on guidelines in the Ministry of Tourism’s Bahamas Tourism Readiness & Recovery Plan, effective Wednesday, 1st July, 2020.

Establishments, taxi and bus owners are to be held responsible for (i.) letting mask-less patrons enter their respective establishments and (ii.) ensuring that occupancy is limited to enable physical distancing.

If the requirements to wear masks and physical distance are not adhered to by patrons because the owner failed to enforce the requirements, a fine is to be applied to the establishment owner. A second violation will lead to a second fine at a higher quantum. A third violation will lead to a temporary closing of the facility until Health Officials can be satisfied that the continued operations of the establishment would not pose a health risk to the community.

Mr. Speaker: I understand the burdens of the lockdown on many of our citizens and how difficult it has been to practice physical distancing in some households.

Basic matters such as the cost of acquiring the right kind of masks and the need to clean and sanitize them regularly has been a burden to some depending on their circumstances.

But I assure the Bahamian people and residents that the wearing of masks has saved lives and protected our health.

As we continue to come out of the lockdown period, let us not allow this new sense of freedom to overcome the discipline that we displayed up to now with regard to social distancing, regular hand washing and mask

wearing. We cannot squander the results of the hard work that we undertook as a community. We have seen what we can accomplish when we work together.

Mr. Speaker: As the world and The Bahamas reopen their economies, societies and borders, there will inevitably be an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases within and across borders. Just as with the other nations of the world, The Bahamas must continue to balance health, economic and social concerns in order to ensure the viability and sustainability of our countries.

During our phased and gradual reopening we have repeatedly emphasized the need for everyone to do their part. The COVID-19 pandemic is not over. There is no vaccine as yet.

The wearing of facial masks is an absolute necessity and has significantly helped to reduce the spread of the virus at home and around the world. We must all do our part and be personally responsible by wearing our masks, maintaining physical distance and washing and sanitizing our hands thoroughly and often.

Employers and business must help by ensuring that health measures are followed by employees and customers.

Those who feel unwell should stay at home. Those who are over a certain age should limit the time they spend away from home. We still have to be careful and vigilant as we reopen.

We should not be complacent.

We will continue to enforce health care measures, but government cannot do this alone. We are still in this together. The need for social solidarity and concern for others is as absolutely necessary as ever. I beseech and implore the Bahamian people to act in a spirit of love and unity as we continue to face the many ongoing challenges presented by COVID-19.

We still have a long and difficult road ahead.”

-------------------------------Updates as they occur: www.EleutheraNews.com

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Reflections - Evacuees and Economy Get Boost From One Eleuthera (Press Release) - The One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) has moved from one storm to another – Hurricane Dorian in September 2019 to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Both have created difficult economic times for The Bahamas and OEF has been there to help alleviate the burden. By June 2020, contributions and grants for the OEF Hurricane Dorian Relief (HDR) Program have amounted to $900,000 and were used for a variety of programs to help evacuees get a new start. The Foundation is preparing for a busy hurricane season with strong fundraising efforts while working through a new normal in their many partner organizations.

Reflecting on Hurricane Dorian, it was considered one of the strongest storms on the planet when it struck the northern Bahamas in September 2019 with a fierceness that is still fresh.

Abaco evacuee Josette AlburyGilbert who is a single mother was thankful for a new start in Eleuthera. She left a shelter in Nassau with 3 of her 4 children ages 6, 12 and 14. Her eldest is 23 and is a student at the University of The Bahamas.

“When I received a call from Shawna McCartney of One Eleuthera, she told me about their program to help evacuees. I didn’t believe her at first. I thought it was a joke. People don’t call you to say they will relocate you, find you a job and help you with a place to live.”

It was reported that 14,000 people were displaced from the 2 northern Bahama Islands of Grand Bahama and Abaco and its cays. This superstorm hung around for almost 72 hours, causing loss of life with hundreds said to be missing and, it created the worst destruction The Bahamas has ever experienced. Damages ran into billions of dollars with the country’s second economy of Abaco receiving the brunt. On a tour shortly after UN Secretary General, António Guterres said, “It’s impossible not to be horrified with the destruction in Abaco after Hurricane Dorian. I have

never seen such dramatic devastation. They say that this is a category five. I believe it is a hurricane category “hell.” But it was not powered by the devil. It was powered by climate change. It was powered by human action.”

(Source: UN News 14/09/19).

One Eleuthera’s Hurricane Dorian Relief (HDR) Program Boosts Eleuthera’s Economy and Improves Hundreds Of Lives: From September 2019 to June 2020, community donors and partnerships helped with aid and post-disaster relief. Generous contributions of cash, in-kind donations and grants exceeding $900,000 supported the OEF 7-month Hurricane Dorian Relief (HDR) Program. The economy in Eleuthera received a boost since most of the funds were spent on the Island with a smaller portion spent for relief supplies for Abaco. Eleuthera’s population grew by 5% from the 600 registered evacuees.

The OEF HDR program included a housing and utilities allowance, emergency relief supplies, educational grants, a school feeding program, job placement and training and trauma counseling. Funds also covered revitalization of commercial agriculture in south Eleuthera and employment and disaster preparedness.

The 600 newcomers representing 213 households were primarily from Abaco with a few from Grand Bahama. Undocumented migrants and others who did not need the long-term services were also supported. Over 4,000 hot meals were served out of the Tea Room at CTI (Centre for Training and Innovation), Ethel’s Cottages and Ingraham’s Beach Inn, with more taking place in Spanish Wells.

The housing and utility program in Spanish wells involved short term contracts due to the market constraints where 39 households and 1 business rental was supported. There was also 1 household on Harbour Island. On mainland Eleuthera, 173 households received long-term support totaling $330,000.

In October 2019, Abaco evacuee Josette Albury-Gilbert, a single mother of 4 was left homeless by Hurricane Dorian. She took a chance and left a shelter in New Providence with 3 of her younger children, for a new start in Eleuthera, assisted by the One Eleuthera Foundation. Her eldest daughter lives in New Providence and is a student at the University of The Bahamas. In the spirit of the Christmas season and celebrating “life” after Hurricane Dorian, Josette and her family wore t-shirts with the lyrics of “Jingle Bells” separated on each shirt. She comes from a tight knit family of 12 and tells others to treasure family and friends. Shown from left to right in the photo are Josette, Ashley, Samara, Teron and Andraya. Photo supplied by Josette.

The education investment of $34,000 covered care, supplies, and salaries. Education grants for 2 evacuee teachers with special needs experience were hired and additionally literacy support for 5 students was provided. Supplies included textbooks, school supplies, 71 physical education kits, power tools and equipment and desks and chairs. Tuition for 8 students of single-mother homes was extended along with 2 private caregivers so that the mothers could work. The lunch and snack program for Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School in Spanish Wells included 560 snacks and meals for 40 evacuee students and teachers.

Eighty-four percent of registered evacuees on mainland Eleuthera used the SEEP (South Eleuthera Emergency Partners) distribution center in Tarpum Bay which supported 96 households and 33 walk-ins not previously registered with the HDR Program. The building housing the Cancer Society in Palmetto Point was also instrumental. Both distribution centers gave out clothing and dry goods.

Events providing emotional support were beneficial to the well-being of those who affected

by Dorian. There was a memorial ceremony at the Methodist Habitat’s Camp Symonette in James Cistern that gave closure for many. A heartwarming community connection event on January 3, 2020 in Rock Sound was attended by 110 evacuees who came from the many settlements on Eleuthera.

To help ease the trauma for the hurricane evacuees, One Eleuthera engaged the services of a counselling team led

by Emma Basset and Stephen Thompson; the counselling services covered all of Eleuthera.

Utilizing the services were 272 evacuees – 203 under the age of 18 and 69 adults - with the addition of 38 new applicants at the end of January. More funding is needed to support this initiative and a survey showed that 60% of adults and 100% of children under 18 requested additional counseling.

School principal Shardell Gibson of Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School had reported to One Eleuthera that prior to counseling, “Everyone was just falling apart.

Everyone was crying, and some (children) just didn’t want to come to school. We had so many tummy aches,

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nightmares, parents crying. And now these children, if you didn’t know their story, you wouldn’t know what they’ve been through. They’ve come such a long way...I’m seeing quite an improvement in the parents, because the children are doing well.

Even academically, the children are doing so well, many of them are on the Honor Roll.” (Source: OEF HDR Report).

Direct employment and temporary positions were realized when OEF and CTI hired 14 evacuees and 4 HDR coordinators to develop capacity of its profit centers. Some of those positions included a chief operations officer, a sustainability officer, farm manager, 1 farm grower, junior architect, social media strategist and a chef. There were 4 relief coordinators from September to January, an HDR Program coordinator, a relief coordinator in Spanish Wells which has now shifted to a volunteer position. Expenditure up to January 31,2020 was $97,000.

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Two Abaco Evacuees Share Their Stories: Hurricane Dorian did not discriminate – persons from all socio-economic backgrounds were affected. The stories here are to offer insight, hope, encouragement and strength.

loc a l +p lu s “When it rains and it’s stormy, at night, my children pile into the bed with me and my little one would still tremble,” said Josette Albury-Gilbert. She and her 3 children survived by swimming to a neighbour’s house after the roof of their house was blown off. That neighbour soon had to leave. “All of us kept moving from one place to the next. We were swimming.

We were scared. We didn’t know what was happening. I just wanted to make sure we were safe and trying to get to safety. I lost a co-worker in the storm and a few people in the community because the water was really high and a lot of people can’t swim. I thought a demon was in the storm. You could hear screams and things. It was worse than a nightmare.”

Albury-Gilbert said that before Hurricane Dorian, she was content with life - she had a nice house and a full pantry. In New Providence, her daughter’s small apartment could not accommodate 10 people so she moved to a shelter. Eventually, a request to relocate is how she met Shawna McCartney of One Eleuthera.

McCartney had worked for the local government for 20 years and had used her vacation time to volunteer with SEEP, a partner organization of OEF. “I needed to do something to help my countrymen and it became one of the most amazing and gratifying months of my life. I didn’t think that Josette would come.”

The One Eleuthera team left

Maisie Thompson (middle) is the Community Outreach Coordinator with the One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) who took the lead with the Hurricane Dorian Relief Program working with the evacuees, community and organizations. She was assisted by contracted worker, Marsha Carey (left). James “Jim” Richard, an Abaco evacuee and COO of OEF dropped by to assist at the distribution center at SEEP (South Eleuthera Emergency Partners). Located in Tarpum Bay, SEEP was also the administrative office for registration and assistance. Photo supplied by OEF.

Rock Sound before midnight to make the two-hour journey for the Three Island Dock in North Eleuthera to pick up a group of 34 men, women and children who were arriving by a mailboat. “The buses were waiting to take them from North Eleuthera to the CTI Hotel,” said McCartney. “We fed them chicken souse and they had a nice place to stay at the hotel.

The children were shell shocked.

I had a cry with them because despite the fact that I didn’t go through what they went through, I tried to empathize and consider how I would like to be treated if I were in the same position.”

McCartney would eventually be hired by CTI in the finance department and Albury-Gilbert as a cook at One Eleuthera’s Centre For Training and Innovation (CTI).

Appreciation of the Foundation, of their Community Outreach Coordinator Maisie Thompson and the donors was paramount for Josette Albury-Gilbert. “One Eleuthera didn’t desert me. Maisie goes all the way out. She’s like a big sister to me. She calls to make sure that we’re okay. I do believe in angels. People have to live it to understand the concept of it.

The children are almost back to normal. It’s not our house but it’s a good comfortable space. And, everyone needs to know that the donors and partners may not realize how much they change people’s lives.”

Two weeks after he arrived, Chief Operating Officer of One Eleuthera, Jim Richard applied for and secured his role. “Being offered the position has been an amazing experience. I was fortunate that it was available as I have 2 children in university. Losing my house and job in Abaco was a very humbling and discouraging time. To be offered employment so quickly and be part of the team has been a blessing.

It is especially rewarding to be working with an organization that has done so much for Hurricane Dorian evacuees.”

Richard further elaborates, “My personal experience with Dorian along with my connections in Abaco have helped me in my role. I know first-hand the needs and have experienced the loss along with my fellow evacuees.”

In Abaco, Rich-

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ard was the principal of Forest Heights Academy. When Dorian arrived, “I was the leader of the group and everyone made decisions to survive. When buildings collapsed, we kept moving – at least 7 times to several locations during the hurricane. There were 5 of us in my house and as the walls fell in, we eventually moved to the laundry room where we sat under a mattress for 6 hours.

We had 2 persons from Colorado who were planning to ride out the storm at their oceanfront Airbnb.

They were with us through the entire ordeal - Sunday to Monday night - two full days. It was so traumatic.”

Richard and his group ended up in a church hall where they spent 11 hours of the storm that Sunday night. The shelter was occupied by persons from all socioeconomic backgrounds. “Everyone was trying to stay alive and to keep the doors closed. When parts of the roof peeled off the Latterrain Church, we moved in the darkness to the new government clinic down the road. There was a lack of supplies and sanitation. Blood was everywhere on the ground and toilets didn’t flush and clearly they were unprepared for the situation at hand with the influx of persons who showed up.” Richard feels that more attention should be given to the criteria used for shelter selection and not simply rely on churches and schools.

“We tried to leave via the airport on Thursday, but that was chaos. We wanted to get out of Abaco for safety reasons too.

There was looting and too many weapons. We heard that HeadKnowles was arranging flights out of Marsh Harbour on Thursday and when we made it to the airport with hundreds of others, it was disorganized. We waited 8 hours in the airport but they were prioritizing the injured, elderly, and orphaned children and I had no idea when we could get out.

We left and I drove to Sandy Point in South Abaco.”

The one-hour drive took longer than usual due to water and destruction. “That was another ordeal. We were hot and dehydrated. We finally got granola bars and water that had come in P31

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RBPF Promotions in Rank within the Eleuthera Division During the month of May, thirteen officers serving within the Eleuthera Division of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) were recognized for their contributions and efforts put into their work, by receiving promotions in rank within the Force.

Officer Franklyn Neely was promoted from Assistant Superintendent to Superintendent. Officer Anthony McCartney was promoted from Inspector to Assistant Superintendent. Three officers moved from the rank of Sergeant to Inspector, including; Officer 2479 James Ferguson, Officer 188 Sharico Farquharson, and Officer 2495 Surdanio Sands. Three Corporals were promoted to the rank of Sergeant; Officer 2657 Bernard Wallace, Officer 44 Frederick Anderson, and Officer 3258 Alexandria Albury. Also five Officers in Eleuthera were promoted from Constable to Corporal, they were; Officer 2638 Antoine Ellis, Officer 2773 Rovan Carey, Officer 3044 Michael Lockhart, Officer 3341 Nadia Brancaccio, and Officer 3531 Gonzalo Brancaccio.

A number of training events and seminars were hosted by Police Executives on island to prepare the new promotees for their new roles and responsibilities within the Eleuthera RBPF team. On Thursday, June 11th and Friday, June 12th, 2020,

Anthony McCartney

Franklyn Neely

Surdanio Sands

Sharico Farquharson

Superintendent Frankly Neely (shown standing) hosts an Inspectors Training Seminar, following the recent RBDF promotion exercise.

an in-house training seminar was hosted for eight Sergeants throughout the division. The officers were lectured by managers within the district on a variety of key topics - including, ethics and professionalism, preparation of duty rota, sickness and welfare, drafting of charges (criminal and disciplinary), duties of a Sergeant, appraisal writing, as well as a lesson on motivation.

At the end of the two-day event the officers were further charged by Chief Superintendent Stephen Adderley to take what they had learned and to meaningfully apply it to their daily duties. The Sergeants were also reminded that they were a vital link between their subordinates

and their senior officers. On Tuesday, June 2nd, new and current Inspectors within the Eleuthera Division were also hosted to a seminar, which highlighted the roles and duties of Inspectors, ethics and professionalism, as well as a session on interfacing with the media.

The training sessions, commented Superintendent Neely, who organized a number of the seminars, were important in the efforts of the RBPF to continuously make the organization a better one in serving the community.

James Ferguson

Nadia Brancaccio

Gonzalo Brancaccio

Antoine Ellis

Frederick Anderson

Michael Lockhart

Alexandria Albury

Bernard Wallace

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Boost / One Eleuthera

Cont’d

We love what we do! Helping others, learning and teaching along the way. Katiusia Johnson, a chef at the One Eleuthera Centre For Training and Innovation in Rock Sound and her colleagues cooked 3 meals a day for approximately 50 Hurricane Dorian evacuees when they arrived to get settled into a new life. “It’s heartwarming to be able to help those in need. You have to be open-minded to a new adventure. It might be me in the same situation the very next time, needing someone’s help,” she said. In the photo Katiusia (right) who is a chef at CTI also teaches the basics of culinary arts. She is shown with students at the CTI – Harbour Island Training School, instructing how to make bread. The students are Nayda Pierre (left) and Nicoya Cleare (middle). Photo provided by Katiusia.

on some of the flights. No one had umbrellas or sunscreen.

We stood in the sun for 5 hours and finally our chartered plane arrived.” Richard had a friend in Rock Sound who sent a chartered plane to pick up his group that included another with babies and children. “We landed in North Eleuthera airport late Thursday night. It was the first organized structure we saw.”

Entire communities were wiped out and this survivor reminds us not to store information on phones which many did and was lost in Hurricane Dorian. Important documents should be stored in the cloud including your children’s immunizations records. Many postsecondary education institutions outside of The Bahamas required proof of vaccines and without those records, there were students who needed to be re-immunized again.

Eleuthera native, Katiusia Johnson works as a chef at CTI and helped with the meal program for the evacuees. She was part of a team who prepared 3 meals a day from the Tea Room for around 50 persons while also operating the restaurant.

Food is the comfort that satisfies appetites and binds souls.

Breakfast was an important meal for the many persons who left CTI to spend the day finding a job or getting their housing organized or children in school.

Johnson has been cooking for groups since she was 17 years old and could handle the responsibility and a staff of 3 others. She graduated from the Culinary Arts program at the University of The Bahamas and apprenticed for 3 years at the Lyford Cay Club. “Serving people who just came out of the storm was new for me,” she said. “Cooking for groups was not a problem. But I wasn’t prepared to deal with the emotional part. There were many persons in their 20’s to 40’s. Although a lot of persons left after breakfast to find work or housing, there were many who stayed behind to share their stories.”

Evacuees working with Johnson included Peaches who became a prep cook, Daniel a dishwasher who later went on to work in the Tea Room and Bradbury who started as a dishwasher and later joined the Farm at CTI after the restaurant closed due to the pandemic.

Johnson leaves this message for us. “It’s heartwarming to be able to help those in

need. You have to be open-minded to a new adventure. It might be me in the same situation the very next time, needing someone’s help.”

Bahamians are a resilient people and rebuilding is part of their history, They know that hurricanes affect the island chains differently where some are more damaged than others. When devastation happens, everyone comes together to help.

Many residents of Eleuthera, especially those in the north remember the damage of hurricane Andrew which made landfall on August 23, 1992 as a category 5 hurricane with winds exceeding 160 mph. There was loss of life and great destruction to Spanish Wells, the Current and parts of North Eleuthera. The Abaco community was the first to arrive with supplies and their generosity is always remembered.

When Hurricane Dorian hit in September 2019, One Eleuthera was there, working hand in hand with the communities and NGOs who were the first responders, bringing the displaced from Abaco by boat. They helped to settle 300 people in Spanish Wells and another 300 on mainland Eleuthera.

The Hurricane Dorian Relief Program was led by OEF CEO, Shaun Ingraham who is a certified disaster relief responder with 22 years of experience. Both the Bahamas Foundation and US Foundation of One Eleuthera are familiar with disaster

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recovery. “Our 7-month Hurricane Dorian Relief Program was rewarding and is a successful model that we are sharing with our counterparts and The Bahamas. We were happy to welcome the new residents to come and help us build Eleuthera, ” said Ingraham.

The One Eleuthera Foundation is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2012 to identify, invest in and strengthen projects that improve the island of Eleuthera and further its economic, environmental and social development. Additionally, they support projects on other islands like New Providence and in the wider Bahamas. One Eleuthera operates a foundation in The Bahamas and one in the USA and is a successful NGO. More information is available on www.oneeleuthera. org.

The Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) is the first and only postsecondary, non-profit, training and business enterprise institution on Eleuthera. They encourage growth and development for learners to become better citizens and to contribute to building a vibrant economy for the island of Eleuthera and The Bahamas. More information is available on www.oneeleuthera.org/projects/CTI. (Written by Azaleta Ishmael-Newry)

Shawna McCartney of One Eleuthera (left) accepted donations from Marjie Findlay and family. The children’s clothing and stuffed animals were greatly appreciated by the evacuees of Hurricane Dorian. “Everyone needs to know that the donors and partners may not realize how much they change people’s lives,” said a recipient. Photo provided by OEF.

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ILO warns of COVID-19 migrant ‘crisis within a crisis’ Policies need to be put in place to protect stranded migrant workers and to ensure the reintegration of those who return to their home countries, says the International Labour Organization.

24 June 2020, GENEVA (ILO News) – Tens of millions of migrant workers, forced to return home because of the COVID-19 pandemic after losing their jobs, face unemployment and poverty in their home countries, the International Labour Organization has warned.

As containment measures ease, millions of migrant workers may be required to return home to low and middle income countries where labour markets, which were fragile before the COVID-19 outbreak, are now further weakened by the additional strain of high levels of unemployment and serious business disruptions due to the pandemic. In addition, their families will suffer financially from the loss of the remittances normally sent to them.

Meanwhile, other migrant workers have found themselves stranded in host countries without access to social protection and little money for food or accommodation. Even those with jobs may be taking reduced wages and living in cramped worksite residences where social distancing is impossible, putting them at greater risk of contracting the virus.

While many migrant workers, particularly women, are doing essential jobs for their host societies during the pandemic, particularly in the care or agriculture sectors, those in other sectors have lost their jobs or have continued to work informally.

“This is a potential crisis within a crisis,” said Manuela Tomei, Director of the ILO’s Conditions of Work and Equality Department. “We know that many millions of migrant workers, who were under lockdown in their countries of work, have lost their jobs and are now expected to return home to countries that are already grappling with weak economies and rising unemployment.

Cooperation and planning are key to avert a worse crisis.”

It is estimated there are 164 million migrant workers worldwide, nearly half of them women, comprising 4.7 per cent of the global labour force. While not all of these workers will return home – after losing their jobs or for other reasons – informal ILO research in more than 20 countries

loc al +p lu s indicates that many millions are expected to do so.

Most of their home countries have very limited scope to reintegrate such large numbers, and often do not have policies and systems in place to ensure effective labour migration governance and smooth reintegration plans, including for skills development and recognition. Governments in Asia and Africa, in particular, expect millions of migrant workers to return, whether through compulsion or voluntarily, as their job prospects evaporate.

A package of ILO briefing and policy documents focusing on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on workers who are migrants, refugees, or forcibly displaced persons, draws attention to the potentially serious social and economic impact if returns occur over a short period of time and if migrants are not included in social protection measures or given help to reintegrate into national labour markets.

The research also shows how returning migrant workers bring skills and talent that can help their home economies rebuild better after the pandemic. However, the key to unlocking this potential is the establishment of rights-based and orderly return and reintegration systems, access to social protection, and proper skills recognition.

This can facilitate better skills and jobs matching, so increasing productivity for national industries.

In addition, migrant workers may bring knowledge and capital to open new businesses that can help to improve employment opportunities.

Helping returning migrants reintegrate will also reduce tensions in their home countries, where some communities may fear that returning migrants may bring the virus or take jobs away. Rebuilding the livelihood strategies of returning migrants will allow them to pay any debts related to their original recruitment abroad, avoiding the risk of forced labour and human trafficking, or re-migration through irregular pathways.

“With the right policies, the return of these workers can be converted into a resource for recovery,” said Michelle Leighton, Chief of the ILO’s Labour Migration Department. “These migrants will bring with them talents and new skills, and in some cases capital, that can support efforts in their home countries to build back better.

We must help these countries grasp the opportunity.”

The ILO publications include assessments of the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Jordan, Lebanon and the ASEAN region, on seasonal workers’ schemes, and on refugee workers and

other displaced persons. There is also guidance on policy responses to help maximize the benefits of the returning wave of migrants, including procedures for recognizing skills acquired, ensuring fair recruitment, extending social protection coverage, and help with finding new jobs or re-migrating safely.

June/July, 2020

Hurricane Shelter List 2020 for Eleuthera & Harbour Island With the Hurricane Season for 2020 having started on June 1st, the Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development released its list of Official Hurricane Shelters for 2020 on Sunday, June 7th.

The list of shelters provided for Eleuthera, however, was incomplete. A note included with the national list informed that shelters were still being actively sought in Spanish Wells.

See the official shelters listed for Eleuthera and Harbour Island, detailed below: See Online Link to full ISLANDS OF THE BAHAMAS 2020 OFFICIAL HURRICANE SHELTERS here: (http://eleutheranews.com/?p=22534)

CENTRAL ELEUTHERA

1. Camp Symonette - James Cistern 2. Church of The Nazarene - Palmetto Point 3. Emily G. Petty Primary School - Governor’s Harbour 4. George E. Johnson - Hatchet Bay 5. The Salvation Army - Palmetto Point 6. Wesley Methodist Church Hall - Palmetto Point

NORTH ELEUTHERA 1.

2.

3.

4.

New Jerusalem Church - Blackwood, The Haitian Baptist People Church - The Bluff, John Wesley Methodist Church - The Bluff, Charles Wesley Methodist Church - Lower Bogue, 5. The Current Community Centre - The Current, 6. Zion Methodist Church - Current Island

SOUTH ELEUTHERA 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Church of God of Prophecy - Tarpum Bay Rock Sound Primary School - Rock Sound Green Castle Primary School - Green Castle Wemyss Bight Primary School - Wemyss Bight Deep Creek Primary School - Deep Creek St. Mary the Virgin Church - Bannerman Town

HARBOUR ISLAND 1.

2.

3.

4.

Lighthouse Church of God Harbour Island Public Library New Alliance Church of God Wesley Methodist Church

SHELTERS ARE ACTIVELY BEING SOUGHT IN THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS: 1. Central Abaco 2. Grand Bahama 3. Spanish Wells, Eleuthera As noted by the Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development, this list is subject to change.

Source: Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development Department of Social Services (List updated as of June 5th, 2020)

co m me n ta ry

June/July, 2020

33

The Great Plague! 2020 By: Andrew L. Burrows

Thanks to the generosity of our governments around the world, most of us have spent the last four months as prisoners, prevented from living normal lives because there was an outbreak of an annual FLU. At first it seemed like the right thing was done, because no one seemed to be sure just how dangerous the outbreak was; however, such a scare was raised because there was no present vaccine to administer that all sense was abandoned! The president of the United States expressed on numerous occasions the need to reopen and proceed to normality, but no one seems willing to reexamine the true reason for the disastrous over reaction!

Here in the Bahamas, we were commanded to “self-imprison” and await our future date of partial release!

Our civil rights were totally violated and the Constitution of the Bahamas was nullified. We must now ask the question, was it necessary? Many people with established medical needs were de-

nied ongoing treatments, students trapped in foreign countries were denied return home, and persons who may be diagnosed as infected threatened with jail and fines. You must now ask the question “Did the world just go crazy”? Well it did!

And we went along with it.

remainder of our country’s economy by following the rest of the world!

All for an annual FLU! So, what is to happen with our children’s education? Why are our children stuck at home? Why are all religious activities made unattractive? We must now pay the ultimate price!

One of the excuses expressed to justify the madness was that there was no Vaccine available because this was a new Virus. Well, what should have been done was protect the older people who are most vulnerable, while allowing the remainder of the population to proceed as normal, with emphasis on cleanliness and exercise. But no!

We followed the rest of the world who were wrong and proceeded to destroy the lives of most of the people in this country through Dictatorship.

One final question must now be asked; why were the islands that were not affected kept locked down and imprisoned? There is no rational answer!

On the heels of last year’s hurricane Dorrian we chose to wreck the

We chose to follow the rest of the world and we got it wrong, when you copy you get it wrong, but you will swear you were right, and blame everyone else. Wrong is WRONG! You got it wrong.

Why is everyone wearing a MASK? Has everyone accepted the order to look like Crooks? Sorry, the fresh air that my God has surrounded me with is just beautiful!

andrewburrows1@gmail.com

on our many beaches, bathing in the beautiful salty ocean and basking in the warm springtime Sun. No, we copy the rest of the world and get it WRONG!

We should have spent time

STATEMENT BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY(CARICOM) THE HONOURABLE MIA AMOR MOTTLEY, PRIME MINISTER OF BARBADOS ON THE ELECTORAL CRISIS FOLLOWING GUYANA’S GENERAL AND REGIONAL ELECTIONS 2 MARCH 2020 Many of us have observed with great sadness what has been transpiring in Guyana.

It is more than 100 days since the people of Guyana went to the polls. And yet there is no declared result. From the very beginning we have been clear and said consistently that every vote must count and every vote must be made to count in a fair and transparent way.

Regrettably we have seen a level of gamesmanship that has left much to be desired and has definitely not portrayed our Caribbean region in the best light. This is definitely NOT our finest hour and we MUST NOT shy away from that reality.

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is concerned at reports that the Chief Elections Officer has submitted a Report to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) which is contrary to the directions given by the Commission and which does not reflect the results of the recount process as certified by the very staff of the Guyana Elections Commission and witnessed by representatives of the political parties.

Indeed, these numbers and the certification of them were also witnessed by our CARICOM Observer Team. They travelled to Guyana (in spite of the pandemic and the risk to themselves) and they scrutinised the recount process.

The CARICOM Observer Team was of the unshakeable belief that the people of Guyana expressed their will at the ballot box on March 2 and that the results of the recount certified as valid by the staff of GECOM led to an orderly conclusion on which the declaration of the results of the Election would be made.

Therefore, we must ask - on what grounds and by what form of executive fiat does the Chief Elections Officer determine that he should invalidate 1 vote, far less over 115 000 votes when the votes were already certified as valid by officers of the Guyana Elections Commission in the presence of the political parties.

We must remind all that If there is any evidence of fraudulent or improper conduct then there is a clear and well accepted route to deal with these matters. It is through an Election Petition to an Election Court.

Any attempt to provide numbers different from those certified by the staff of GECOM has left many in shock and wondering what next will happen to frustrate the will of the Guyanese people.

The role and focus of political parties must be useful and not obstructive in embracing and promoting the clear and expressed will of the people. When we confuse and frustrate that will, is when we begin to sow the very seeds of dis-

cord and acrimony that we are sworn to dissuade and discourage.

The Community holds the strong view that no voter must be disenfranchised in determining the credibility of this or any election. It is this commitment to a fair and transparent political process that led us to send 2 Electoral Observation Missions - one for the Elections and one for the recount. In addition, 4 Prime Ministers accompanied me to talk to both sides and to urge patience especially after the death of 1 person.

The Community thanks patience of the Guyanese people and thanks you.

As you await the finalisation of this process, we urge again that you be patient and that you be committed to the fact that no electoral process can replace the life of any Guyanese. There must be room for all regardless of who wins and who loses.

I assure you that the Community remains committed to the people of Guyana and remains resolute that the report of its Observer Mission was very clear in its conclusions as to the will of the Guyanese people as reflected in the recount which they monitored.

34 www. EleutheraNews . com

ne a r by

World Day Against Child Labour 12 June 2020: COVID-19 may push millions more children into child labour – ILO and UNICEF NEW YORK/GENEVA (ILO News) – Millions more children risk being pushed into child labour as a result of the COVID-19 crisis, which could lead to the first rise in child labour after 20 years of progress, according to a new brief from the International Labour Organization (ILO) and UNICEF. According to COVID-19 and child labour: A time of crisis, a time to act, child labour decreased by 94 million since 2000, but that gain is now at risk.

Global estimates in 2017 showed that 152 million children were in child labour worldwide.

Children already in child labour may be working longer hours or under worsening conditions, the report says. More of them may be forced into the worst forms of labour,

which causes significant harm to their health and safety.

“As the pandemic wreaks havoc on family incomes, without support, many could resort to child labour,” said ILO DirectorGeneral, Guy Ryder. “Social protection is vital in times of crisis, as it provides assistance to those who are most vulnerable.

Integrating child labour concerns across broader policies for education, social protection, justice, labour markets, and international human and labour rights makes a critical difference.”

According to the brief, COVID-19 could result in a rise in poverty and therefore to an increase in child labour as households use every available means to survive. Some studies show that P41 a one percentage point rise

June/July, 2020

Crime News Reports issued by the RBPF locally.

Reports are printed to keep the public informed of the incidents of crime that are reported within our communities. All reports are to be treated as allegations only.

Eleuthera Reports

Search Reference to Dangerous Drugs and Firearms: On Thursday 18th June 2020 at 11:05am Officers while on mobile patrol searched a silver Jeep and its three (3) adult male occupants reference to Dangerous Drugs and Fire arms with negative Result.

Traffic Offence Report: On Thursday 18th June 2020 at 11:05am Officers reported an adult male for driving a brown 2007 Honda Accord on Queen’s Highway, Governors Harbour without a driver’s license, driving while unlicensed, uninsured, failing to transfer ownership and driving with a cracked windshield.

Causing Harm Report: At about 8:10pm Thursday 18th June 2020, an adult female came to the G.H.P.S and reported that her ex-boyfriend attacked her by punching about the head knocking her unconscious and caused harm to her she is requesting police action.

The suspect was arrested while at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station where he was processed and charged with that offence.

Traffic Checks: Sometime between the hours of 9:00am and 11:00am on Thursday the 18th June 2020 Officers conducted a traffic stop on Queens Highway in the area of the Glass Window Bridge. Three (3) Persons were reported for various traffic infractions, and all motorists seen were reminded to adhere to the speed limit, and to wear their seat belts.

Search reference to possession of dangerous drugs, firearms and dangerous drugs: Officers conducted a search on the person of a male while on Queens Highway in the area of the Glass window bridge reference to possession of dangerous drugs, firearms and stolen goods. They officers also conducted a search of a blue 2005 Honda Accord driven at the time by the subject. The search ended with negative results attained.

THREATS OF HARM: On Thursday, June 18th, 2020, sometime around 5:32pm, an adult male came into the Rock Sound Police Station and reported that, on today’s date, sometime around 5:20pm, while working, a male known to him, threw gasoline on him and threatened to set him on fire. He is requesting police action in this matter. Investigations are ongoing in this matter.

POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS DRUGS: On Thursday, June

18th, 2020, sometime around 10:34pm, Officers came into the Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male. It is further reported that he was arrested at 9:50pm while in the area of Green Castle by Police in reference to possession of dangerous drugs.

POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS DRUGS: On Thursday, June 18th, 2020, sometime around 10:34pm, Officers came into the Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male in custody. It is further reported that he was arrested at 10:05pm while in the area of Green Castle in reference to possession of dangerous drugs.

Search Reference to Dangerous Drugs and Firearms: On Wednesday 17th June 2020 at 12:13am Officers while on mobile patrol in the area of Queen’s Highway Gregory Town searched a 2009 Honda Ex and the adult male driver in reference to Dangerous Drugs and Fire arms with negative Result.

Search Reference to Missing Person: On Wednesday 17th June 2020 at 12:13am Officers from the Governor’s Harbour Police Station along with a team of Officers from North Eleuthera conducted a search in reference to missing person, Trevaughn Edwards in the area of the Glass Window Bridge with Negative results.

Search: On Wednesday 17th June, 2020 sometime around 1:00pm Officers while on mobile patrol on Queen’s Highway, Gregory Town in the area of Daddy Joe’s stopped and searched a green 1997 Honda accord along with the the adult male driver and 3 male passengers reference to possession of dangerous drugs and illegal firearms. The search ended with negative results, nothing illegal was found.

Arrests Reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs: Officers came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with two adult male suspects and reported arresting them in the area of Savannah Sound in reference to possession of angerous drugs.

Both suspects were interviewed and charged with that offence.

Traffic Offence Report: On Monday 15th June, 2020 sometime around 12:05pm Officers while on mobile patrol reported an adult male for driving a black 2007 Honda Accord south along Queen’s Highway Governor’s Harbour in the area of Highway Service Station while same was unlicensed, uninspected and uninsured for the current year 2020, also for driving same without a valid driver’s license and in a defective condition (shattered front

June/July, 2020

windshield). He was informed of the offence and warned of prosecution.

Investigations are ongoing.

DRUG SEARCH: On Monday 15th June, 2020 sometime around 1:38pm pm Officers while on mobile patrol searched an adult male in reference to Dangerous Drugs with negative results.

Traffic Offence Report: On Monday 15th June, 2020 sometime around 1:40pm Officers while on mobile patrol reported an adult female for driving a red 2012 Nissan, while same was unlicensed, uninsured and uninspected for the current year 2020. Additionally she was reported for not having a valid driver’s license on scene. She was told to produce driver’s license and insurance within 48 hours at the G.H.P.S. She was informed of the offences and warned of prosecution.

Violation of Curfew: On Monday 15th June, 2020 sometime around 10:08pm Officers while on mobile patrol in the area of Queens Highway, Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, reported four (4) adult males who were all occupants of a gray Chevy Astro Van in reference to Violation of Curfew contrary to section 6 & 9 of the Emergency Powers (Covid 19) (No. 1 Order, 2020) and Emergency Powers (Covid 19) Regulations 2020. They were informed of the offence and warned of prosecution.

Vehicle fire report: On Friday 12th June, 2020, sometime around 12:01pm an adult female contacted the Rock Sound Police Station via telephone and reported that sometime around 1:00pm Thursday 11th June, 2020, while traveling south on Queens Highway north of Tarpum Bay in a 2006 Hyundai Teuaqain, the vehicle caught fire and burned down. Officers visited and photographed the scene.

Drug Search Report: On Friday 12th June, 2020, sometime around 6:15pm Officers while on mobile patrol in the area of Queens Highway, Savannah Sound, conducted a search of a yellow Nissan March driven by an adult male in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs and Firearms. The search ended with negative results.

Bush Fire Reported: On Thursday 11th June 2020 at 11:59am, an adult female reported to the Governors Harbour Police Station, a Bush Fire in Palmetto Point, Coffee Hill Street, Police assistance requested Men of Faith volunteer Fire Fighters were contacted in reference to above report. They responded and were able to extinguish the blaze.

Traffic Offence Report: At about 11:58am on the 11/6/20 Officers while on mobile patrol in the area of Eleuthera Island shores on Queens Highway reported an adult male for driving a silver 1996 Honda Civic in a southern direction on Queens highway while the said vehicle was unlicensed, uninspected and uninsured. He was informed of

35

the offences and was warned of prosecution.

Search reference to Possession of dangerous drugs, firearms and stolen goods: Sometime around 11:58pm on the 11/6/20 while on Queens Highway in the vicinity of Eleuthera Island shores, Officers conducted a search on the person of a male reference to possession of dangerous drugs firearm and stolen goods. The search ended with negative results attained.

Reported T.O.R: At about 12:50pm on Thursday 11th June 2020, while on Queens Highway James Cistern Eleuthera Officers reported an adult male for driving a gold 1999/2000 Honda Accord .

He was reported for driving a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license and a motor vehicle whilst same was unlicensed, uninsured and uninspected for the current year 2020. The vehicle was not licensed from May 2018. He was warned of prosecution FIREARMS AND D/DRUG SEARCH: At about 12:50pm on Thursday 11th June 2020, while on Queens Highway James Cistern Eleuthera Officers searched the driver of a 1999/2000 gold Honda Civic along with two adult male passengers for Firearms and Dangerous Drugs with negative results.

Stolen Vessel Report” On Sunday 7th June, 2020, sometime around 9:29am, an adult male contacted Rock Sound Police Station and reported that sometime between 5:30pm on Thursday 4th June 2020 and 9:00am on Sunday 7th June 2020, some unknown person stole his white vessel with black stripes 30 foot Grady White vessel with two (2) twin 300hp Yamaha 4 stroke engines from Davis Harbour Marina located in Waterford. Same is valued at $140,000.

Police Action Requested. This vessel was later located in New Providence where a suspect was arrested and charged with Stealing.

Arrest ref Threats of Death: On Sunday 7th June, 2020, at about 10:25am Officers came in at Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male under arrest in reference to Threats of Death - a complaint that was made on 22.4.20 . He was arrested sometime around 10:10am while at his residence. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence.

HOUSEBREAKING & STEALING: At about 7:45am on Wednesday 6th may 2020, an adult male reported to the G.H.P.S that a house of which he is the caretaker was broken into and a safe was stolen. Officers visited the area and processed the scene. Nothing was in the safe at the time. Investigations are ongoing.

HOUSEBREAKING: At about 2:20pm on Wednesday 6th May 2020 an adult female came into the Governor’s Harbour Police Station and reported at about 1:00pm on 6th May 2020 P36

36 www. EleutheraNews . com

Crime News

June/July, 2020

Police Contact Numbers

Reports issued by the RBPF locally.

Reports are printed to keep the public informed of the incidents of crime that are reported within our communities. All reports are to be treated as allegations only.

she went to work at a P35 house where she is employed as a maid.

She walked around the house and discovered that two windows were broken into.

She did not go into the house because she was afraid to do so, but contacted the owners informing them of the break in. Police assistance requested.

Officers visited and processed the scene, investigations are ongoing.

POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS DRUGS: At about 6:55pm on Wednesday 06th May 2020 Officers came in at the Governors Harbour Police Station with an adult male under arrest for possession of dangerous drugs. He was arrested at about 6:30pm after he was found with a piece of foil wrapping that contained a quantity of grassy like substance, suspected of being marijuana.

The suspect was processed and charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs contrary to section 26(b) & 29(2)b of the Dangerous Drugs Act, Chapter 228. He said nothing in reply to the charge.

Traffic Offence report: Sometime around 7:47pm on the 5/6/20 while on mobile patrol Officers reported three (3) drivers for various traffic infractions. The current year.

They were informed of the offences and warned of prosecution. .Violation of Curfew: At about 9:30pm on the 5/6/20 Officers reported an adult male for being in violation of the curfew order as he was found on Queens Highway in Hatchet Bay in contravention of the curfew . He was informed of the offence and was warned of prosecution.

Violation of Curfew: At about 9:58pm on the 5/6/20 Officers reported an adult male for being in violation of the curfew as he was found on Princess street in Hatchet Bay in contravention of the curfew . He was informed of the offence and was warned of prosecution.

Arrest Reference to Unlawfully Carrying Arms: Officers came in at the Governors Harbour Police Station at about 6:43pm on the 4.6.2020 with two adult males and reported that they were arrested at about 6:40pm on same date in the vicinity of Ministry of Tourism Queens Highway Governors Harbour reference to Unlawfully Carrying Arms. Both suspects were processed and charged with that offence.

Road Accident Report: On Wednesday 3rd June, 2020,

sometime around 11:20am, an adult female contacted Rock Sound Police Station via telephone and reported that she had just been involved in a traffic accident on Queens Highway, Rock Sound, Police assistance was requested.

Officers responded where they met a charcoal gray 2009 Audi A-4 facing a northern direction on the western side of the street with front end damages. Also seen was a dark brown 2012 Nissan Juke facing south in the middle of the road with minor damages to the rear side. Both drivers were seen and spoken to under caution where they both gave verbal accounts of the accident. Measurements were recorded, N.O.I.P form issued and caution statements were recorded. No injuries were sustained. Investigations continues.

Housebreaking and Stealing: At 4:17pm Saturday 30th May, 2020, an adult male contacted the G.H.P.S. via telephone and reported that sometime between 4:30pm on Thursday 28th May, 2020 and 2:30pm on Saturday 30th May, 2020, some unknown person/s broke into and entered his home, and stole a 55” Television and wall mount, value unknown at this time.

Police action is requested. Officers responded to this scene, this matter is under active investigation.

ARREST REFERENCE TO DISORDERLY BEHAVIOR, BREACH OF CURFEW, RESISTING ARREST & OBSCENE LANGUAGE:

On Saturday 30th May 2020 at about 9:15pm Officers came in at G.H.P.S with an adult male suspect under arrest and reported arresting him at 8:55pm in reference to Breach of Curfew, Disorderly Behavior, Resisting Arrest and Obscene Language.

He was processed and charged with those offences.

Traffic Offence Report: Sometime around 8:23pm on the 29/5/20 while on mobile patrol Officers reported an adult female for driving a red 2016 Kia Optima in a northern direction on Queens Highway Hatchet Bay while the said vehicle was unlicensed, uninspected and uninsured. She was informed of the offences and warned of prosecution.

Road Checks Conducted : On Tuesday 26th May, 2020 Officers from the Governor’s Harbour Police Station conducted road checks in Palmetto Point and Cupid’s Cay areas. Motorist were reported for eleven various traffic infractions and one person was searched reference dangerous drugs and illegal firearms.

THREATS OF DEATH AND HARBOURING A FUGITIVE: Officers came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with two adult male suspects reference to Threats of Death - both were arrested at about 11:35am

HeadQuarters (GH) Governor’s Harbour OR O/C Governor’s Harbour Gov.Harb. Airport Station Deep Creek Station Tarpum Bay Station Rock Sound Station

332-3500 332-2111 332-2117 332-2723 332-2323 334-8207 334-4033 334-2244

on 25th May 2020 . The suspects were transported to New Providence for further investigation.

FIREARM & D/DRUGS SEARCH: At about 11:45am on Monday 25th May 2020, Officers, while in the area of the caves on Queens Highway, Hatchet Bay, Eleuthera, stopped and searched a Purple 2007 Honda Fit vehicle driven by an adult male with four (4) adult male passengers in ref. to Dangerous Drugs & illegal firearms with negative results.

Traffic Offence Report: At about 1:30pm on the 23/5/20 Officers, while at the Governors Harbour police station saw and spoke with an adult male and warned him of prosecution for driving a silver 2000 Honda Inspire in a manner dangerous and reckless to the public. He was also reported reference to driving the said vehicle while the same was unlicensed, uninspected and uninsured for the current year and failing to stop when signaled to do so by a police officer. He was informed of the offences and warned of prosecution. Investigations are ongoing.

Causing Harm Report/ Arrest On Saturday 23rd May, 2020 an adult female reported to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station that sometime around 4:40pm on Friday 22nd May, 2020 the father of her child came to her residence and punched her multiple times causing pain and swelling above her right eye. Police action requested. The suspect in this matter was arrested and charged with Causing Harm. .POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS DRUGS: On Friday May 22nd 2020 at 10:15am, Officers came in at the Governors Harbour Police Station with an adult male under arrest in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. He was reportedly cautioned and arrested at 9:50am on Friday 22nd may 2020.

While at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station the suspect was charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs contrary to Section 29(6) and 29(b) of Chapter 228 of the Dangerous Drug Act. He was then further cautioned but said nothing in reply.

Dangerous and Reckless Driving/ Failing to stop when signaled by a Police: Around 8:00pm on the 22/5/20 while on mobile patrol Officers observed a silver Honda inspire driven at the time by a male known to them west along main street in Hatchet Bay. The vehicle appeared to not be registered for road use and officers pursued the said vehicle with flashing lights indicating the vehicle to stop.

Rock Sound Sgt. Office Rock Sound Airport Stn L. Bogue Station (Airport) Harbour Island Station O/C Harbour Island Spanish Wells Station Gregory Town Station Hatchet Bay Station

334-2212 334-2052 335-1208 333-2111 333-2327 333-4030 335-5322 335-0086

The driver refused to stop and proceeded to drive at dangerous speeds in the settlement. The driver sped through Hatchet Bay from Main Street to Cambridge Avenue, to Baby Johnson lane, back onto Main Street and through an unnamed street where the vehicle made good on evading the police.

The driver was subsequently reported for those offences and was warned of prosecution.

Causing Harm Report: Sometime around 8:00am on the 20/5/20 an adult female came in at the Hatchet Bay police station and reported that sometime around 6:00am on the 20/5/20 while at her boyfriend’s residence he attacked her biting her on her upper left shoulder causing the said area to bleed and proceeded to kick her about the stomach area causing tremendous pain. She requested immediate police action in this matter.

Sometime around 7:40pm on the 21/5/20 Officers saw and spoke with the suspect while at his residence. He was informed of a complaint made against him reference to causing harm. He was then cautioned and arrested. The suspect was later processed and charged.

NE & Hbr Island Breach of Lockdown Order: On Saturday 6th June, 2020 at about 12:05 am while standing in front of the Harbour Island Police Station, Goal Lane, a Cpl. observed a white golf cart being driven westerly with two passengers. The vehicle was brought to a stop where the driver was identified as a woman and the passenger gave his name. When asked their reason for being on the street during the nationwide lockdown they both responded, “we went for cigarettes”. The Cpl. informed both offenders that they would be reported in reference to Breach of the Covid-19 Emergency Lockdown Orders and warned of prosecution. They were advised to return to their residences.

Breach of Lockdown Order: On Saturday 6th June, 2020 at about 12:11 am a crew while on mobile patrol in the area of Johnson View Road observed a male of South Street driving a yellow Symm scooter. As a result, the crew pursued the offender where he parked into a yard and dismounted the scooter.

The offender was asked why he was on the streets and he said, “yal come from me, I live here”. Police then informed this male that he would be reported in reference to Breach of the Covid-19 Emergency Lockdown Order and Fail-

Crime News ing to wear a safety helmet. He was warned of prosecution. The offender sucked his teeth and knocked on the door where he later walked in.

Breach of the Business Licence Act & Breach of the Covid-19 Emergency Orders On Saturday 6th June, 2020 at about 3:20 p.m. a crew while on mobile patrol in the area of Colebrooke Street and Clarence Street, observed that multiple vehicles were parked in the area of a ‘takeaway’ Restaurant. Knowing that “Takeaways” were not permitted to be open, Officers proceeded to the establishment. The waitress who gave her name was asked for the Proprietor. She stated that her boss was not there. Persons who were seated in various sections of the deck were informed that they were not permitted to be there and were instructed to leave.

They all complied and left. The proprietor came from the kitchen and was asked to produce her business licence.

She stated that it was home. She was informed that her license is supposed to be in conspicuous place and available for inspection at all times. She was instructed to produce her business licence to the Harbour Island Police Station on Monday. She was warned of Prosecution for being in Breach of the Covid-19 Emergency Orders and being in Breach of the Business License Act. Breach of Curfew/ T.O.R: On Sunday 7th June, 2020 at about 10:35am, a crew while conducting mobile patrol duties reported one male of Dunmore Street, Harbour Island for driving a white 2001 Jeep Cherokee north along Colebrooke Street while same was unlicensed for the current year 2020 (exp 2018) and no valid certificate of insurance or driver’s license could be produced. When questioned as for his reason for being on the road while there was a lockdown in place, he stated he went to pick up a ladder, which was on the roof of the jeep, for a job tomorrow. As a result, he was warned of prosecution for breach of curfew and the traffic offences committed. Area left quiet and in order.

Stealing Report: On Wednesday 10th June, 2020 a female of Johnson Street came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that sometime between 3:00 pm on Saturday 6th June, 2020 and 9:00 am on Monday 8th June, 2020 some unknown person/s stole the battery from her blue Yamaha Golf Cart whilst same was parked on the Government Dock, Bay Street. She reported that the battery is valued at $268.00. Police action requested.

Assault Report: On Wednesday 10th June, 2020 at around 7:00 pm a female of HBI came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that at around 6:30 pm while at her residence, her brother choked her to the neck area and hit her about her body causing bruising. She further reported that the suspect hit her six year old son to his head and slapped him to the right side of his face causing pain. Police action requested.

Assault / Damage Report : On Wednesday 10th June, 2020 at about

8:30pm, a male of Harbour Island came into Harbour Island Police Station and reported that at about 8:15pm, while at Lotus Bar, Barrack Street, a male known to him popped his silver box link chain valued at $180.00 and hit him to the right side of his face causing his inner lip/jaw area to tear. Police action requested.

Police recorded a complainant’s statement from the man where he requested police action. Investigations continue into this matter.

Threats of Death Report: On Wednesday 10th June, 2020 at about 9:30pm, a male of Harbour Island came into Harbour Island Police Station and reported that at about 9:05pm, while at his residence, two males known to him pointed at him and said that whenever they see him they will kill him.

Police action requested.

Suspects Interviewed: Update Report (Stealing/Receiving) - On Wednesday 10th June, 2020 at about 1:30pm, Police, while at Harbour Island Police Station, interviewed and charged a young adult male in reference to Stealing contrary to Section 139 and Receiving contrary to Section 148 both of the Penal Code Chapter 84. On the same date 10/6/20 at 1:45Pm Police interviewed and charged a male suspect of Harbour Island, in reference to Receiving contrary to Section 148 of the Penal Code Chapter 84. He was further cautioned and said nothing in reply to the charge.

Both suspects were processed and granted bail in the sum of $2,000.00 with one (1) suretor to appear before Magistrate Court on 1st July 2020.

Breach of Curfew/ T.O.R. On Thursday 11th June, 2020 at about 10:52pm, a Crew was conducting mobile patrol duties in the area of Harbour Island Police Station when officers observed a yellow scooter, no license plate affixed with two occupants, of Harbour Island travelling north along Colebrooke Street. The Unit pursued both males and beckoned them to stop by way of horn and flashing police lights with negative results. They continued north onto Colebrooke Alley where they made good their escape.

Officers shouted after both males that they were warned of prosecution for the offences committed.

Breach of Curfew: On Thursday 11th June, 2020 at about 11:22pm, a Crew was conducting mobile patrol duties in the area of KC’s Snack Store on Munnings Street, Harbour Island and reported male offenders of Harbour Island for Breach of Curfew without being able to give a reasonable excuse. They were warned of prosecution.

Arrest Assault: On Friday 12th June 2020 sometime around 12:00pm while on duty at the Harbour Island Police Station a PC arrested and cautioned a male suspect in reference to Damage and Assault. He appeared to be

well without any complaints. The accused was interviewed under caution in reference to Assault and Damage. He was further cautioned and a charged. He was Charged with Assault contrary to section 133 of the penal code chapter 84. He said nothing in reply to the charge. He was subsequently processed and granted bail in the sum of $2,000.00.

Suspected Stolen Motor Cycle Report: On Friday 12th June 2020 at around 4:40 a crew reported that while conducting road check duties in the area of Bay Street Harbour Island they beckoned and stopped a driver and occupant of a yellow motorcycle in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs, and other Traffic Infractions. However as the search began the driver of the motor cycle known to the Police ran from the area. A Cpl subsequently gave chase of the suspect with negative results. The passenger of the motor cycle gave his name and address where a search was conducted of him with negative results. An inspection was made of the said motor cycle where it was discovered that the key ignition switch was damage and tampered with. As a result he was arrested and cautioned in reference to a stolen motor cycle and transported to the Harbour Island Police Station & handed over. Police conducted an interview with the suspect who denied knowledge of the motor cycle and stated that he was only catching a ride with his cousin.

He was subsequently released pending further investigations sometime around 7:25pm.

Arrest Report: Obscene Language/Disorderly Behavior - A Male of Gregory Town contacted the Harbour Island Police via phone on Friday 12th June 2020 sometime around 5:45Pm and reported that a male was recklessly sailing a Albury Brothers Abaco Skiff 150hp engine along the harbour creating wake. He further reported that when he asked this male to cease the male began to curse and used obscenities to his annoyance. Police assistance requested.

Police reported being on scene in full police uniform at the Harbour Island Public dock at around 5:50pm where she observed the suspect as reported .She stated that she continuously tried to warn the suspect of his behavior and language, however he refused to cease and desist. As a result she reported him in reference to obscene Language and Disorderly Behavior.

Arrest: A Harbour Island male came to the Harbour Island Police Station where he was arrested and cautioned by Police. around 6:35pm in reference to Obscene Language and Disorderly Behavior on the same date 12/6/20.

While at the Harbour Island Police Station Police conducted a record of interview under caution with the suspect at 9:16pm. He stated that he was using obscenities towards a male and not the Police.

June/July, 2020

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He was subsequently released pending further investigations to return on Monday 15th June 2020 at 9:00am.

Breach of curfew: On Friday12/6/20 at about 10:00pm a Sgt. reported that while in the area of the Harbour Island Police Station he observed a male known to the Police of Harbour Island on the surveillance monitor, as a result, the Sgt. proceeded to the outside of the station and approached him and warned him of prosecution in reference to breach of curfew. The suspect then ran and eluded the Police.

Breach of curfew: On Friday 12/6/20 at about 11:10pm a Crew reported that while on mobile patrol on Colebrooke Street in they observed an offender of Colebrooke Alley Harbour Island walking on the mentioned street and when asked his reason for being out could not give a satisfactory excuse as a result he was warned of prosecution.

Assault report: On Saturday 13/6/20 at about 12:57am a male of Harbour Island came in at Harbour Island Police Station and reported that at about 12:30am 13/6/20 while at his residence, a young man whom he knows whom resides in his yard in one of his apartments just adjacent to his home assaulted him and his son whom also resides in one of the apartments adjacent to his home in the same yard by slamming their front doors in their faces after an exchange of words causing pain to his face and right knee and a bump to his son’s head. Police action requested.

Arrest reference to Assault: On Saturday 13/6/20 a PC arrested and cautioned the accused male of Harbour Island in reference to the assault matter that was reported. He was arrested while at his home. The suspect appeared well with no complaints. Police interviewed the accused under caution where he was asked a series of questions. He did not admit to the assault but admitted to slamming the door of the house. He was further cautioned and said nothing in reply.

Suspect Charged/processed Granted Police bail: The accused was charged in reference to Assault, he said nothing further in reply, he was subsequently fingerprinted processed and given bail at the sum of $1,000 one suretor to appear before Magistrate Court Harbour Island on 1/7/20 Suspect arrested reference to: Disorderly behavior/Obscene language: On Saturday 13/6/20 at about 7:40am an officer came in at Harbour Island Police Station and reported that while at Chapel Street Harbour Island he arrested and cautioned an accused male in reference to Obscene Language and Disorderly Behavior a complaint made on 12/6/20. While at the Harbour Island Police Station a PC charged the accused male in reference to Obscene Language, he said nothing in reply to the charge. The suspect was processed and released on bail in the amount of $500.00 with one (1) suretor to appear before Magistrate court Harbour Island P38 on Wednesday 1st July 2020 at 10:00am.

38 www. EleutheraNews . com Stolen Vehicle Arrest: On Saturday 13th June, P37 2020 at about 3:20 pm a male of South Street came to the Harbour Island Police Station where he was arrested and cautioned by Police in reference to a Stolen Vehicle - a yellow Suzuki.

The suspect was interviewed under caution where he admitted that the bike is his property and that it is neither licensed nor insured however it is not stolen as it was bought from a male. The suspect was subsequently released from police custody pending further investigations.

Arrest reference: Stealing - On Monday 15th June 2020 sometime around 10:43am a crew came in at the Harbour Island Police Station with a male suspect of Harbour Island under arrest in reference to a Stealing case . An officer reportedly arrested and cautioned the suspect in the area of the Harbour Island Government dock at about 10:40am.

He appeared well and in good health.

Police conducted an interview with the suspect while at the Harbour Island Police Station under caution.

He was subsequently charged in reference to Stealing contrary to section 139 of the penal code chapter 84. Police released the accused at around 12:25pm on bail in the sum of $700.00 with one suretor to appear before Magistrate Court on 1/7/20 at around 10:00Am. Arrest reference: Threats of Death - On Monday 15th June 2020 at 12:00pm an adult male suspect came to the Harbour Island Police Station where he was arrested and cautioned by police in reference to Threats of Death. Police conducted an interview with the suspect under caution. They subsequently released the accused from police custody at about 12:50pm pending further investigations.

Special operation duties: On Tuesday 16/6/20 between the hours of 5:30am to 10:30am a crew consisting of ASP N.Rolle and Insp K. Farquharson along with other officers of Harbour Island Police Station and supported by Insp J Oldham Insp S Farquharson and other officers of the operational support unit conducted operations throughout Harbour Island community with the following results: Two search warrants were executed on a residence of New Dunmore Subdivision with negative results also a residence on Colebrooke Street with negative results.

There was a total of twelve vehicles stopped and checked. There were fifteen persons searched in total in reference to firearms and dangerous drugs. Overall the initiative was a success and this type of operation will continue into the future.

Breach of Curfew: On Friday 22nd May, 2020, at about 8:50pm, Police reported a male of Harbour Island while in the area of Gustys Nightclub, Coconut Grove Avenue in reference to Breach of Curfew after

Crime News

he was observed travelling on Dunmore Street to Bay Street on a beige Yamaha golf cart and when questioned as to why he was out, he did not answer. He could not provide a driver’s license and after inspecting the golf cart, same had no license plate or registration disc affixed.

He could not provide the name of the owner either. As a result he was warned of prosecution reference to same. Area left quiet and in order.

Breach of Curfew: On Friday 22nd May, 2020, at about 9:10pm, Police reported a male of Harbour Island in reference to Breach of Curfew after he was observed travelling North along Dunmore Street and onto Clarence Street in the area of Mario-on-da-spot on a beige highroller golf cart and when questioned as to his reason for being out, he stated that he was sent to buy sodas. As a result he was warned of prosecution reference to same. An inspection was conducted of the golf cart and same had no license plate or registration disc. The driver was further warned of prosecution reference to same. Area left quiet and in order.

Breach of Curfew: On Friday 22nd May, 2020, at about 9:20pm, Police reported a male of Harbour Island in reference to Breach of Curfew after he was observed travelling east on Coconut Grove Avenue in the area of Gustys Nightclub on a white highroller golf cart and when questioned as to his reason for being out, he stated that he had to take gas out to his boss’ boat because they ran out. He admitted to not getting permission first. As a result he was warned of prosecution reference to same. Area left quiet and in order.

Breach of Curfew : On Friday 22nd May, 2020, at about 9:30pm, Police reported a male of Harbour Island in reference to Breach of Curfew after he was observed walking south along Barrack Street in the area of P.J. Snacks and when questioned he stated that his boss contacted him to go and secure some supplies. As a result he was warned of prosecution reference to same. Area left quiet and in order.

Breach of Lockdown Order: Police c/o Harbour Island Police Station reported that on 23rd May 2020 while on duty they received information that a young male was in the area of Dunmore Street in the Vicinity of the Methodist church breaking bottles in the street and acting in a disorderly manner. As a result of this complaint the officer left the Harbour Island Police Station on enquiries and intercepted the suspect in the area of Colebrooke Street and Clarence Street. The suspect was approached where he stated to the officer “I Have a knife on me, and began to run stating ‘you are not locking me up’ and fled on foot in an Eastern direction making good his escape. This suspect was subsequently informed that he will be reported for Breach of the Covid 19 Order. An investigation continues.

Traffic Accident Report: On Saturday 23rd May 2020 a caller contacted the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that there was a traffic accident in the area of her residence where the occupants capsized and appeared that both received injuries. Police assistance and medical personnel were requested. An officer visited the scene and reported that the driver and other passenger was assisted by the local clinic .However enquiries were made into the accident the driver was identified as a young adult female of Harbour Island. The passenger was also identified as a young adult female of Harbour Island.

Traffic Accident Report On Monday 25th May 2020 sometime around 6:40pm, a resident of Barrack Street Harbour Island contacted the Harbour Island Police Station and reported there was a traffic accident just in the front of his residence involving two vehicles. Police Assistance was requested.

• Police visited the scene of the accident at around 6:50pm saw and spoke to a female driver who informed the unit that the young male who collided into her vehicle with a motorcycle had just left with the assistance of another male on a golf cart attempting to tow the motor cycle off the accident scene. She pointed in the direction the other driver went.

• Police reportedly around 6:55pm intercepted the red golf cart driven by a male known to him o Harbour Island and the young male passenger who was holding a black and red motorcycle which was being towed in the area of Nesbitt Street who gave his name and address • Police obtained photos of the motor cycle a 2018 black and red Yamaha Motor cycle no license plate attached and the vehicle of the other driver involved a white 2009 Honda Accord. Both drivers complained about injuries and were advised to seek immediate medical attention at the Harbour Island community Clinic.

• While at the Community Clinic at 7:02pm police recorded a written statement from the female of Harbour Island whom stated under caution that she was parked at a stop talking to a friend and suddenly felt an impact at the rear of her vehicle where she saw a young male through her front passenger front window thrown off his motor cycle into the bushes, resulting in her vehicle being damage to the rear bumper and muffler. She also complained of side pain as she further reported that she is five (5) months pregnant. Statement was attached to the file.

• Police recorded a statement under caution from the driver of the motorcycle whom stated that he was riding along Barrack Street and he accidently slammed brakes

June/July, 2020 and ran up into a white vehicle which resulted in him being thrown off his motor cycle and received injuries to his left leg and face. He admitted to being at fault for the accident.

• Both drivers were issued with N.O.I.P forms and advised to produce the relevant documents at the Harbour Island Police Station within 48Hours.

Investigations are ongoing and continuing………….

Breach of Emergency Curfew Order: On Tuesday 26th May 2020 a crew reported that while on mobile patrol in the area of Clarence Street they observed two(2) males ( known) of Harbour Island sitting under a tree loitering and partaking in alcohol beverages. Both males were questioned for their reason for being there and could not give a satisfactory account and were warned of Prosecution in reference to Breach of the Covid 19 Emergency Order 2020.

Damage report: A male of Pitt street came to the Harbour Island Police station and reported that at about 4:15am while at his residence, he and his live-in girlfriend were involved in an argument which resulted in her breaking his bedroom window with a rock value unknown and her throwing excrement on his front door causing damage to the door paint. He further reported that she caused damage to his television remote control value unknown. Police action requested.

Causing harm report: On Thursday 28/5/20 at about 5:00am a female of Harbour Island contacted the Harbour Island Police Station via phone and reported that she received information that her daughter fell into an empty well hole and is stuck and unable to move .Police assistance requested. Police reported visiting Bay Street Harbour Island where officers were directed to the rear of Carl’s Laundry Mat where officers observed a dark skinned female in a hole that appeared to be about six feet deep whom was responsive at the time, however was unable to move she was lying on her back stating that she can’t get up and is in pain. As a result officers contacted E.M.S personnel responsible for driving the community Ambulance and also contacted was a Nurse c/o Harbour Island Community Clinic upon arrival the mentioned female was assisted out of the mentioned hole and escorted to Harbour Island Community Clinic via ambulance where she gave her name and address. She reported that she was involved in an altercation with her boyfriend while at his residence which resulted In him cutting her to the right Index finger with a knife. She further reported that he then chased her into a vacant yard where he kicked her into an empty well hole causing major injuries to her right leg and hip area .Police action requested.

Police recorded a written statement from the complainant while at Harbour Island Community Clinic.

P39 One Police Hospital

Crime News Form bearing the name of the complainant same was given to Dr Farrington c/o Harbour Island Community Clinic to be further completed and later collected upon completion. On the same date the complainant was further referred to New Providence P.M.H for further X-Ray and observation as it relates to her condition. Investigations continue into this matter.

Trespassing Report: On Thursday 28th May, 2020 at about 2:30pm, a female of a villa in Harbour Island, contacted Harbour Island Police Station and reported that a male, believed to be the husband of an employee, trespassed on private property during which time he is believed to have damaged the front windshield of his wife’s vehicle. Police action requested.

Damage Report: On Thursday 28th May, 2020 at about 2:40pm while investigating a complaint a female of Harbour Island reported that while parked on the property of one of her employees, some unknown person/s damaged the front windshield to her blue 2008 Suzuki Swift.

An estimate as to the cost to repair the damages is unknown. She suspects her husband to be responsible for same. Police action requested.

Ferocious Dog Attack Report:A female Harbour Island came to the Harbour Island Police Station bleeding from her hands and right leg along with a small miniature pet dog with injuries to the lower back reporting that while exercising in the area of Juicy Hill Harbour Island an unknown brown dog attacked her and bit her to her hand and attacked her dog causing injuries. Police action requested.

• Police issued the complainant with a hospital form bearing the name of the complainant and advised her to seek immediate medical attention.

P38

• The complainant took Police back to the scene where the incident occurred.

• The complainant provided photos of her injuries along with photos of the brown dog which she alleged reportedly attacked her at the property on Colebrooke Street Harbour Island.

• Investigations are continuing into the matter…………..

T. O.R and Breach of Curfew.

On Friday 29th May 2020 at about 10:59pm , police while on mobile patrol in a marked police vehicle reported a female offender, for Failing to stop when requested by the Police and Dangerously and reckless driving a 2012 Suzuki Alto. She was also reported for breach of curfew. She was warned of prosecution.

Trespassing/Damage Report: (Update): On Saturday 30th May, 2020 at about 2:10pm while at Harbour Island Police Station, police arrested and cautioned a male suspect of Barrack Street, Harbour Island reference to Trespassing and Damage.

The suspect was interviewed under caution at which time he admitted to

the offences. He was subsequently charged for the offences committed and released on bail to appear before the Magistrates Court.

Activities Report/DRUGS: At about 4:10pm on Thursday 4th June Police came in at N.E.P.S with a man and woman both of Current, Eleuthera under arrest for Possession of Dangerous Drugs, Possession of Dangerous Drugs with intent to supply and Resisting Arrest.

Officers reported that at about 3:00pm on the same date a search was conducted of the man when officers found a clear plastic bag with a grassy substance believed to be Marijuana and seven (7) brown pieces of paper each with suspected Cocaine. He was caution and arrested. Officers then executed a search warrant on the residence of the suspects and while searching the freezer officers found a quantity of suspected Marijuana. As a result both suspects were cautioned and arrested. They were transported to the N.E.P.S along with the suspected dangerous drugs.

They were both later interviewed and during the interview the man admitted that the drugs belonged to him. They were both processed and charged and granted bail to appear in the Magistrate Court Harbour Island on the 1st July 2020. Cocaine weight 2 grams; Marijuana weight 1 ounce Drug Arrest Report Location: Bluff, Eleuthera On Friday 5th June 2020, sometime around 5:45pm, police acting on information received, and armed with a search warrant reference to dangerous drugs and firearms, proceeded to a residence, situated in the Bluff, Eleuthera. On arrival the officers observed a male standing outside the residence.

The male looked in the direction of the marked Police vehicle, and suddenly removed a package from his pants pocket, and quickly ran into the building. As a result the officers became suspicious and quickly pursued the suspect into the residence. While in the residence the suspect ran into a room and closed the door. The officers gained entry into the room by causing damage to the said door, and found the suspect in front of a toilet, attempting to flush a clear plastic package. As a result the officers quickly attempted to restrain the suspect, which resulted in a physical struggle. The officers were subsequently able to subdue the suspect, and place him in handcuffs. The clear plastic package was retrieved from the toilet, and when examined was found to contain a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was arrested and cautioned reference to possession of dangerous drugs, and resisting arrest. He was then shown the search warrant, which

June/July, 2020

he refused to read. A search was conducted of the residence; however, nothing else illegal was discovered. The suspect was taken to the North Eleuthera Police Station, where he gave his name and address as being of Bluff, Eleuthera, however, he produced a Bahamian driver’s license, which identified him by a different name. Also present during the search of the residence were two other residents.

On Friday 5th June 2020, an officer. interviewed the suspect under caution, where he admitted to the offence. He was charged with possession of dangerous drugs and resisting arrest, and released on bail in the sum of $2,000.00, to appear before Harbour Island Magistrate Court on Wednesday 1st July 2020.

Estimated Weight: (1.5) Ounce of Marijuana Rape report: Police, O/C N.E.P.S reported that at about 1:23am on Saturday 6th May 2020, an adult female resident of Blackwood, North Eleuthera contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station via telephone and reported that she was Raped. Police assistance is requested. At about 1:50am on the same date, police left the N.E.P.S on enquiries for Blackwood arriving at about 2:10am . Officers saw the victim who stated that sometime shortly after 1:00am on the same date, she was at home asleep when a male she knows also of Blackwood forced himself into her home by prying open a bathroom window. The culprit then placed a pillow over her face and had intercourse with her against her will. As a result of the information received the victim was taken to the Lower Bogue Clinic where she was examined. An Investigation is being conducted Shopbreaking Report Location: Bluff, Eleuthera On Thursday 11th June 2020, sometime around 7:20pm, an adult female of Bluff, contacted Police and reported that sometime during the night an unknown person/s broke into her Restaurant and Bar, located in Bluff, and stole approximately $200.00 in coins from her cash register. She is requesting Police action in this matter.

Road Check Airport Road, North Eleuthera On Wednesday 17th June 2020, between the hours of 5:00pm and 6:00pm, police conducted a road check along the Airport Road, Lower Bogue which resulted in the following: • (46) Vehicles stops • (2) Persons reported for traffic offences Police Warning Location: Johnson’s On Wednesday 20th May 2020, sometime around 2:20pm, a female c/o Johnson’s Grocery Store, contacted the North Eleuthera Police Station and reported that a male, whom she only knows who resides in Current

39

Island, came into the store and created a disturbance. She is requesting that he be warned reference to his actions.

Road Traffic Accident (R.A.R.) Location: Current, Eleuthera On Wednesday 20th May, 2020, police investigated a traffic accident involving a Black 1998 Ford Ranger, driven at the time by a female who reported that while travelling South along Queens Highway, Current, she was run off the road by another car causing her to run into a tree on the western side of the said road, thereby, causing injuries to her nose, and damages to the trucks front bumper, grill, and hood. The driver was transported to the Lower Bogue Clinic for treatment in reference to her injuries. Investigations are continuing into this matter.

Stealing Reported On Tuesday 9th June, 2020 at about 9:07am, an adult male of Trianna Shores and caretaker c/o a vacation House came into Harbour Island Police Station and reported that sometime between 2:30pm on the previous date (8-6-2020) and 7:45am on June 9th, some unknown person/s trespassed onto the property of the House located Johnson Terrace east and stole the following parts off a yellow 2011 Yamaha Golf Cart l/p #EL4281 :- (2) headlights, (1) battery, (1) front seat, (1) clutch, (1)starter and (1) belt, value of which is unknown. Same is reported for police information at this time.

Arrest reference to: Stealing On Tuesday 9th June 2020 at 6:40pm, police acting on information from the stealing matter on the 9-6-20, left Harbour Island Police Station on enquiries enroute to Barracks Street, Harbour Island where Officers arrested and cautioned two adult males of Harbour Island in reference to Stealing, Receiving & Unlawful Possession and also confiscated (1) Golf Cart Seat suspected of being stolen. They appeared to be well. On the 9-6-20 at 7:20pm police came in at Harbour Island Police Station with a young adult male of Barracks Street, Harbour Island under arrest in reference to stealing, he was arrested and cautioned at 6:30pm through Princess Street, Harbour Island. He appeared to be well and a Sgt took a written statement from him under caution where he admitted to stealing the items namely- (2) Headlights, (1) Battery, (1) Front Seat, (1) Clutch, (1) Starter and (1) Starter Belt and selling them to an adult male.

40 www. EleutheraNews . com

Lo c a l

June/July, 2020

A ‘Meals On Wheels’ Food Assistance Program by Tippy’s Surpassed 4,000 Delivered Meals in June As the country’s economy closed down at the end of March, and went into stay-at-home and lockdown mode, restaurants in Central Eleuthera also had to close their doors to dine-in guests, including the iconic Tippy’s in Governor’s Harbour.

Key principals at the restuarant, David Barlyn and Elliot Rolle, with their staff, shifted gears from catering to visitors to looking after the nutrition needs of some of the most vulnerable elderly people within four townships in Central Eleuthera, including; James’ Cistern, Governor’s Harbour, Palmetto Point and Savannah Sound.

Dubbed the ‘Meals on Wheels’ program, which kickstarted at the beginning of April, after staff members identified the elderly within their communities with the most need, Tippy’s prepared a weekly menu, and began serving 67 meals per day, six days per week. Staff members would head out in different directions after meal preparation at the restaurant at noon each day, delivering nutritious meals directly to the door of the elderly individuals being assisted. By mid-June, more than 4,000 meals had been served, and about $18,000 had been raised from donations, to help with the ongoing program. Owners, Barlyn and Rolle, more than matched funds raised, taking care of staff labour and everything to do with Tippy’s.

“We’ve got it down to a science now,” smiled

Packaged and sorted meals, ready for delivery by the Tippy’s Meals on Wheels team.

Above: Ianna Brathwaite and Raphieal Bethel, both part of the Tippy’s team, stand just outside the restaurant, as they prepare to begin the daily delivery of meals.

David during a brief interview with The Eleutheran. “We have usually about four kitchen staff come in. We have six different menus prepared. So every week we do that, and we alternate every week. So, for example, Wednesday may be spaghetti day, Tuesday would be something else. Also, every two weeks, along with the meal delivery we include two boxes of cereal, along with cream and sugar, as an available supplement on Sundays when we are not delivering. I have been on several of the runs recently, and it almost brought me to tears... There are alot of people who are shut-in, others with strokes, and other ailments associated with aging,” he shared.

As the need for the Meals on Wheels program continues, with economic prospects during the early and late summer still uncertain, David emphasized that a well organized and well run program was vital. “Every week we check everybody off, note any comments, and ask about any other needs. Also, all receipts are kept, and everything accounted for... If we are going to continue to do this, as well as other things, which I hope we can - as we are considering doing a food bank next to the Office here on property, I want everyone to understand that this is legitimate and for

everything to be totally transparent.”

Raphieal Bethel, one of the restaurant’s staff members involved in the program, just before heading out on his noon delivery run, shared a bit about his daily experience, as he smiled, saying, “Usually when I am in James’ Cistern delivering the food, people that we deliver to, they would always have a smile on their face, are excited, happy, grateful and thankful. They always recommend that you be safe, and God Bless.” Other staff members directly involved in preparation and delivery during the past ten weeks of Meals on Wheels included; Ianna Brathwaite, Latisha Bethel, and co-owners, David Barlyn and Elliot Rolle.

Donors who are interested in contributing to the Tippy’s Meals on Wheels program are encouraged to call the Tippy’s and Pineapple Fields office at 1-242-332-2221 or connect with them through their website at (www. pineapplefields.com/tippys-restaurant-eleuthera.html), as well as facebook and instagram pages.

2020,

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June/July

Child Labour could rise

The Eleutheran

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cont’d

more than 1 billion learners in over 130 countries. Even when classes restart, some parents “As poverty rises, schools may no longer be able to afford close and the availability of to send their children to school. social services decreases, more As a result, more children children are pushed into the could be forced into exploitative workforce.” Henrietta Fore, and hazardous jobs. Gender UNICEF Executive Director inequalities may grow more acute, with girls particularly Vulnerable population vulnerable to exploitation in groups – such as those working agriculture and domestic work, in the informal economy and the brief says. migrant workers – will suffer The brief proposes a nummost from economic downturn, ber of measures to counter the increased informality and unthreat of increased child labour, employment, the general fall in including more comprehensive living standards, health shocks social protection, easier access and insufficient social protection to credit for poor households, systems, among other pressures. the promotion of decent work Evidence is gradually for adults, measures to get chilmounting that child labour is dren back into school, including rising as schools close during the elimination of school fees, the pandemic. Temporary school and more resources for labour closures are currently affecting inspections and law enforcein poverty leads to at least a 0.7 per cent increase in child labour in certain countries.

Elite

Customs Brokers *DHL Courier *Brokerage *Trucking; Tel: 332-3066

Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera

ment.

ILO and UNICEF are developing a simulation model to look at the impact of COVID-19 on child labour globally. New global estimates on child labour will be released in 2021.

Sonali Pal Chaudhury / NurPhoto via AFP - “In times of crisis, child labour becomes a coping mechanism for many families,” said UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore. “As poverty rises, schools close and the availability of social services decreases, more children are pushed into the workforce. As we re-imagine the world postCOVID, we need to make sure that children and their families have the tools they need to weather similar storms in the future.

Quality education, social protection services and better economic opportunities can be game changers.”

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BJC & BGCSE EXAMS

these are unprecedented times, as has often been stated. There is and has been a lot of anxiety, disruption, stress and other disturbing variances introduced into the psyche of the Bahamian student and his family by the Virus that has nearly shut down the entire globe.”

Minister Lloyd asserted that students have been prepared for examinations.

“They [the students] would be responding to the instructions by the submission of assignments and taking of tests as if they were meeting face-to-face. In our estimation, there has been no deprivation suffered by virtue of a virtual environment in this educational circumstance.

“If you are talking about students who would not have had a device or internet that’s one thing, we accept that, we understand that, we feel that certain of those students would have been at some disadvantage, but it’s quite a stretch in my mind reasonably that you could suggest to me that the student who had the opportunity for use of internet, a device and is engaging a live teacher by way of a television screen or device screen, which in this generation we are very comfortable, that that would be a deprivation to those students, from an educational stand point, in my mind is unacceptable.”

He suggested the possibility of students missing the camaraderie of a classroom environment or touchy/ feely engagement in an ordinary school environment, but would not have been deprived of the benefit of instruction, knowledge and information.

Director Taylor confirmed that curriculum officers led teams of teachers who were some of the best, competent and very capable.

“In a regular classroom just one teacher prepares the lesson, now we have a whole team led by the curriculum officer, who has responsibility for development of the curriculum. I would argue that this is at a much higher level than what students would ordinarily get,” stated Mr. Taylor.

He described the virtual learning platform as a “bonus.” In 2019, students did not have a virtual learning platform but text and exercise books.

“Ordinarily students would study with their textbooks and exercise books. We are confident that if a student was focused and

Cont’d

conscientious they actually had an enrichment to what they would normally have in terms of preparation,” said the Director.

Undersecretary Clarke said students who will not be writing examinations this year are required to inform their schools and the Examination and Assessment Division of the MOE. A request can be made for their sitting of the examinations to be deferred to 2021. “If that is done we will honor them. If you do not attend that means you are absent for the exam,” said Ms. Clarke.

The following factors that were considered regarding the decision to hold examinations: 1. Exams are VOLUNTARY. No One is COMPELLED to take the Exams. Also, there are a number of 12th grade students who await the chance to obtain their Graduation Diploma by making up missing exams they need.

International Universities use the BGCSE Exam Results to determine eligibility. The University of The Bahamas is permitting students to enter this year on the basis of their last three years of high school; they still must pass a placement exam to gain entrance.

2. There are many students who if they do not take the exams this year, will never take them. Also, there are some schools where students only take the National Exams in Grade 12. If they miss it this year, it is unlikely that they would return next year to take them.

3. A majority of Bahamian students who leave grade 12 do not go to college. They go to work. For them, the credentials of an external exam is vital. So they would need these exams to enter the workforce. Five or ten years from now, no one may care or remember that we had COVID in 2019. Then, how will these individuals stack up against their juniors and seniors?

4.

Students’ last day of faceto-face instruction was March 13, 2020. The Oral Comprehension, which is

usually the first exam, would have started in April. This indicates that students would have lost only a few weeks of instruction. During this time (March 13 – Oral Comprehension) no new information is taught.

This is a time for review.

5.

For the students who don’t feel prepared, there will be Refresher Courses, which the Ministry will continue to pro-

June/July, 2020

vide – both face-to-face, and through the Virtual school.

Students can avail themselves of any or all of it. If they don’t have internet or a device, they can use devices in the Computer Labs at their school or any other school. Call to put their names down. They are free to use them.

Source: Written

By Kathryn Campbell, BIS

BMOTA Continues Requirement For Negative COVID-19 Test After Phase 2 - July 1st Reopening All Islands Of The Bahamas Will Reopen to International Travel; Visitors Must Present Negative COVID-19 Test and Complete an Electronic Health Visa to be Granted Entry The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation’s Phase 2 of the Tourism Readiness and Recovery Plan, began on Wednesday, July 1st and allows for the resumption of international travel to The Bahamas.

Policies and Procedures for all travellers visiting The Bahamas beginning July 1 are as follows. Plans continue to evolve in response to COVID-19 trends, and so additional guidance will be communicated as details are available.

Due to the recent increase of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., and in an abundance of caution for the health and safety of both travellers and residents, all incoming visitors must present a COVID-19 RT-PCR Negative (Swab) Test upon arrival.

Results must be no more than ten (10) days old.

Select individuals will be exempt from testing, which includes children under the age of two, private pilots who do not deplane, and Bahamian citizens, residents and homeowners returning from English speaking CARICOM countries.

All travellers will be required to complete an electronic Health Visa. Additional information is forthcoming.

No quarantine will be required upon arrival, however, travellers who show symptoms of COVID-19 may be transferred to an area away from other passengers for further testing and evaluation.

All inter-island travellers must complete an electronic Domestic Travel form at travel.gov.bs prior to departure and for any inter-island travel within The Bahamas.

An automated response will be provided upon completion. All travellers must have their confirmation on hand upon arrival to their destination. This is a crucial

2020,

June/July

step for contact tracing purposes.

At airports and seaports, healthcare personnel will conduct temperature screenings for all incoming visitors. Travellers will be required to wear a face mask in any situation where it is necessary to enforce physical distancing guidelines, such as when entering and transiting air and sea terminals, while navigating security and customs screenings, and at baggage claim.

As part of Phase 2, hotels and vacation rentals, including Airbnb and HomeAway will open to guests. Domestic and International airlines are permitted to resume service, and many are beginning to announce plans for their return to The Bahamas: Delta Airlines will be resuming its twice daily Atlanta to Nassau service July 2 United Airlines announced its daily Houston to Nassau service will resume July 6 and the Saturday-only Denver to Nassau service will resume July 11.

American Airlines will resume flights to Nassau and Exuma on July 7.

Additional airlift resumptions are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. Travellers should check with airlines directly for details on recommencement of service and any protocols for travel.

This July 1 tourism re-entry builds on and supports existing government rules and regulations, which already allows for the resumption of travel for international boaters, yachters and those traveling on private aviation as well as inter-island domestic travel for Bahamian citizens and residents.

Once on island, travellers should expect to follow The Bahamas’ “Healthy Traveler Campaign” that encourages both visitors and residents to continue practicing social distancing measures, regularly wash hands or use hand sanitizers, and pack appropriate PPE such as face masks, just as they would their swimsuits and sunscreen.

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A Certification Agency has been established - representing a collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Health, and other regulatory agencies - to enforce a Clean & Pristine certification program across the islands. All tourism related, customer-facing entities in The Bahamas must verify they have in place and are adhering to the Government approved health and safety guidelines to receive Clean & Pristine certification. Adequate signage outlining policies will be clearly displayed at all locations helping to guide staff and visitors. Travellers are encouraged to visit direct business websites prior to booking or traveling to ensure they are aware and comfortable with the policies they will need to abide by.

Additional details about on-island protocols can be found at www.bahamas.com/travelupdates.

Reopening of borders will continue to be monitored and guided by The Bahamas government and health officials. Reopening dates are subject to change based on COVID-19 trends, if there is a deterioration in improvement or if government and health organizations deem these phases unsafe for residents or visitors.

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation believes it is an absolute baseline requirement for consumers to have a comfort level that The Bahamas is a safe and healthy destination to visit, and the ultimate goal is for that to remain the case. For more information, or to view the Tourism Readiness and Recovery Plan, please visit: www.bahamas.com/travelupdates.

All COVID-19 inquiries should be directed to the Ministry of Health. For questions or concerns, please call the COVID-19 hotline: 242-376-9350 (8 a.m. – 8 p.m. EDT) / 242-376-9387 (8 p.m. – 8 a.m. EDT).

Source: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation June 18, 2020.

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Snapshot Covid -19

As it was June 25th, 2020

For daily information visit www.EleutheraNews.com

World Data

(https://clustrmaps.com/)

Note: “Today” refers to June 25th, 2020

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June/July, 2020

A look back: Labour Day Weekend 2019, in

Gregory Town at the 32nd Eleuthera Pineapple Festival

BY The eleutheran news team

The entertainment

With COVID-19 casting a blanket on celebrations of 2020 across the island, we take a LOOK BACK at June 2019 when the Pineapple Festival was in full swing.

& The Entertained!

Eleutheran singer, Shawn, keeping toes tapping.

Fanshawn at the 2019 Pineapple Festival.

The 32nd Annual Pineapple Festival, hosted last year in Gregory Town during the Sir Randol Fawkes Labour Day holiday weekend, over the course of four days, from Thursday evening, June 6th, 2019 until Sunday, June 9th, 2019, was enjoyed by locals and visitors to the newly renamed ‘Pineapple Festival Park’, just north of the main Settlement, with an exciting lineup of activities and entertainment for the eager attendees.

A signature ‘Summer Festivals’ event by the Ministry of Tourism in Eleuthera, the Pineapple Fest saw several changes, including an expansion from a two-day to a four-day event, as well as the addition of an entrance fee to festival goers. Since its venue change five years ago from the bayfront to the park, the Fest has continued to grow. Last year, a bit of weather, along with the new entrance fee, may have attributed to a slower start, however, by Saturday the evening crowds approached 2018 numbers.

Festival Park, sported four main areas in the comfortably grassed and enclosed site space, encompassing a ‘kid’s world’, where children’s games, snacks stands, bouncing castles and the like were placed together for children to enjoy throughout the weekend.

Food and drinks vendors, including those selling fresh pineapples and pineapple inspired dishes could be found in another section, with liquors and other spirits available altogether in another area of the park. A large tented spot with seating and picnic benches was

again strategically placed in the center of the Festival site, with a clear view of the entertainment stage, and all other surrounding areas, to comfortably enjoy food and drinks while taking in the Fest’s ongoing evening activities and on-stage entertainment. Near the Festival entrance, a group of local vendors showcasing native crafts and cottage lines, from creative straw-works, shell crafts, jewelry and paintings, to bush teas and luxurious native soaps and salt scrubs, could also be found for an authentic Bahamian shopping experience. Bush tea tasting, glass art works, and straw work demonstrations were also a feature, underneath the stone cabana on site.

A large, professional stage and lighting set up was the focal point for last year’s music entertainment by the Blue Waters band,

Performer Puzzle with local superstar Melvina.

Classic: Veronica Bishop in 2019 at the Pine Fest.

Dancing the night away at the 2019 Pine Fest.

2020,

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The Eleutheran

45

Hoops & Hoopla

Hand crafted, matted, blended and painted

Charles Strachan: Eleuthera’s talented strawwork artisan, from WaterFord, South Eleuthera will be missed. He passed away during May 2020.

Sue Culmer shares sips of local decoctions (teas)

Emily Mavis Munnings - Exquisite designer straw bags, hat, and more... Contact: 553-5394

sweet

‘Pinefest’

Continued from Page. 45

and a bevy of Bahamian performing artists, including; The Rahming Brothers (on Thursday’s Gospel Night) followed on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening by headliners Stevie S., Fanshawn, Veronica Bishop, Julien Believe, D-Mac, and Puzzle. Crowds also enjoyed performances by the Eleuthera Freedom Marching band, Junkanoo rush-outs, fire dancing, on stage painting demo - by Jamaal Rolle, culinary competition by local students, bridal show, pineapple pole plaiting, petting zoo/agricultural expo, rock oven baking, pineapple eating contests and much more.

Talented glass works Artisan, Shorlette.

Photos Continued Page 46

style n’ smiles

Stevie S. on stage at the 2019 Pineapple Festival.

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style n’ smiles

June/July, 2020

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BPL’s Family Island Renewable RFP’s Reach Stage Two In a statement released on Tuesday, June 2nd, 2020, Bahamas Power and Light Company Ltd. (BPL) announced that multiple bids for renewable and sustainable power generation and storage plants on a number of Family Islands had entered phase two of evaluations.

The statement read as follows: “Bahamas Power and Light Company Ltd. (BPL) is excited to report that six potential Independent Power Providers (IPPs) entered the second phase of evaluations of their bids for contracts to develop, finance, build, own and operate a solar photovoltaic (solar PV) and energy storage plant or a hybrid power plant on North & Central Andros, North Eleuthera, South Eleuthera and Inagua.

Phase Two of this process involves deeper dives into the technical and financial elements of the proposals, requests for clarification from the bidders and bidder interviews. This process, particularly regarding bidder interviews, has had to be modified as the COVID 19 pandemic made it impossible for the initially planned approach of interviews and sites visits to projects operated by the shortlisted companies.

As such, we anticipate holding virtual bidder presentations during the week of June 15, 2020.

Once that happens, there will be a period to allow the bidders to provide additional information, then some time for evaluation of the bids, and in the third week of July, we expect to submit a report citing the approved bids

DPM Turnquest Presents Fiscal Projections for The Bahamas for the 2020/21 Budget Year

By Llonella Gilbert NASSAU, The Bahamas -- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. K. Peter Turnquest explained that real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is expected to decline by an unprecedented 12 percent this year -- representing the largest single year economic contraction since these statistics have been kept.

“Our economy is expected to be a lot smaller at the end of December than it was in January. That means fewer business imports, lower sales revenue for businesses, and therefore lower revenue for the Government,” DPM Turnquest said as he presented the 2020/21 Budget Debate Opening Statement in the House of Assembly, Mon-

day, June 8, 2020.

He noted that the 2020 outlook for the global economy is in a worse state than that of the 2008/09 global financial crisis. Despite the slight improvement in unemployment rates and recent rallying of stock markets, real GDP in the United States is projected to decline by 5.9 per cent in 2020, which will have a direct impact on the pace of the country’s tourism recovery.

The DPM added that the public outcry on display in the United States, as a result of racial injustice, will also no doubt add further strain to the recovery of the US economy.

He stated that the global and domestic economic environment is having a significant impact on The

(or, recommending proposed bidder). Contract negotiations from then would take place beginning the third week in August, and should all things remain equal, our timeline now calls for awarding of contracts as early as the end of September 2020.

Background As we reported, more than three dozen companies downloaded tender documents during the July 2019 RFP issued for Independent Power Providers to submit proposals to “develop, finance, build, own and operate” a solar PV and energy storage plant or a hybrid power plant on North & Central Andros, North Eleuthera, South Eleuthera and Inagua. In the end, six companies submitted bids for Inagua; five companies submitted bids for North & Central Andros, and ten companies each submitted for the other two locations. Based on the addresses given, four of the six companies to submit bids

Bahamas’ fiscal situation, especially revenue performance.

“The projections for fiscal year 2020/21 put total Government revenue at $1.7 billion. We are projecting a shortfall of $900 million compared to our annual projection for last year,” DPM Turnquest stated.

“Although concerning, given our performance just 3 months ago, the Government is not broke, and we caution against any fear mongering that relies on such claims. Faced with this scenario, we have put in place arrangements to ensure we can adequately meet our obligations, as any responsible Government would.”

He said in this “treacherous climate”, the Government had two choices: it could reduce public spending and shrink the economy even further or it could invest in public health, economic and social relief measures to mitigate the impact of the pandemic and ensure the viability of our key economic base for the recovery.

“These two choices are not unique to The Bahamas. Governments around the world are facing the same decisions, and the most prudent Governments are making the appropriate shift to providing economic relief and expanded social welfare spending, even though these temporary measures will cause some deterioration to their fiscal positions.

“For example, we saw the United States’ Government re-

for Inagua are Bahamian, as are three of those who submitted for North & Central Andros and five each of those who submitted for North Eleuthera and South Eleuthera.

We’ve asked the IPPs to provide Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) offers for terms of 25 years. PPA proposals could take three different forms: daytime energy production with no storage, baseload 24-hour production with storage or a hybrid of the two that allowed for higher daytime production with baseload production outside of daylight hours. Pursuant to signing the PPA, the project company will develop, finance, build, own and operate the new generation facility and will sell power to BPL, as its sole and only customer, on an Energy Only (kWh) basis.

BPL’s goal is to transition the Family Islands from BPL-owned diesel power plants to a more diverse mix of renewable and sustainable generation from IPPs. This Solar RFP is the first phase in that transition.

cently pass $3 trillion in economic relief packages to aid in their fight against COVID-19, while Canada provided up to $82 billion in support via tax incentives and direct support for consumers and businesses.”

The DPM added, “Right here in the region, Jamaica injected over US$170 million into their economy in response to the crisis, while Barbados injected some US$40 million.”

He noted that like The Bahamas’ leading regional and international counterparts, the Government recognizes that its contributions to the economy are a vital lifeline, so drastic cuts would do more damage to the already weakened economy.

“Instead, we chose to curtail non-essential spending, while focusing on targeted investments in priority areas. Because of these necessary investments, we are projecting to run a fiscal deficit of $1.3 billion, or some 11.6 percent of GDP.” DPM Turnquest said, “As one

meme being circulated says, this is ‘the largest deficit ever incurred in the history of The Bahamas.’

But it is also in response to the largest revenue drop in the history of The Bahamas as a result of a one-two catastrophic sucker-punch to the heart of our economy.”

He added, “The unprecedented level of borrowing is to fund this unpreceded deficit. It is as simple as that. We are acting responsibly to adequately fund the Government and ensure that our people do not suffer.”

--PHOTO CAPTION Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. K. Peter Turnquest presented the 2020/21 Budget Debate Opening Statement in the House of Assembly, Monday, June 8, 2020. (BIS Photo/Patrick Hanna)