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Volume 14, 12/12, New Year’s Issue
Eleuthera, Harbour Island & Spanish Wells, The Bahamas
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OFFICERS ELEVATED Commissioner of Police, Paul Rolle, on December 23rd, 2021 announced the names of officers who had been selected for promotions from across the Force. Eighteen officers in the Eleuthera Division of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) were successful.
Harbour Island, Spanish Wells, & Eleuthera - North, Central & South BACK COVER: Damianos Sotheby’s Int’l P 3: Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty P 5: HG Christie
rbpf OFFICERS THROUGHOUT THE ELEUTHERA DIVISION PROMOTED
Representing
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Incredible Women... Eleuthera is Buzzing... OPINION - 13 ... All Republics by 2030?
More News
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Upcoming Local Govt. Elections January 27th, 2022.
New Cotton Bay Agreement Page 7
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Overrun - Dump site Dilemma
Year begins with the apprehension of 150+ Illegal Immigrants Near Eleuthera
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Eighteen officers in Local Division, promoted in rank by RBPF Commissioner Commissioner of Police, Paul Rolle, on December 23rd, 2021 announced the names of officers who had been selected for promotions from across the Force. Eighteen officers in the Eleuthera Division of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) were successful in receiving promotions during this most recent exercise. On Tuesday, January 11th, 2022, Officer-In-Charge of the Eleuthera Division, Chief Superintendent Shanta Knowles, presented promoted officers with their official letters, during a brief ceremony held at the Eleuthera RBPF Headquarters in Governor’s Harbour. Ahead of the letter presentation, Ch/Supt. Knowles commented, “Promotions, as is said, comes neither from the East or the West, but from God above. The Commis-
sioner has always said that you don’t need to thank anyone for your promotion. Thank God for your promotion, and say thank you to yourself for the work that you have done. This is a reward, but also a form of encouragement - to encourage you to continue to be professional, to continue to give your best efforts to development in our communities, and most certainly to continue to give your best efforts to the organization.” One promotee who recently arrived on Eleuthera from New Providence in December 2021, Superintendent Princess Hepburn-Scavella a 32-year veteran in the RBPF, expressed her pleasure and elation in being elevated to her new rank. “My hard work has paid off. I’ve been in the trenches for quite some time. I’m a community officer, and have been involved in many
Pictured: Newly promoted Police Officers with the Eleuthera Division of the RBPF.
community projects, so I’m looking forward to working with OIC Mrs. Knowles who has great wisdom, even being such a young officer.” Assistant Superintendent Kelsey Farquharson, originally from Crooked Island, who has been serving in the Harbour Island community for many
years, stated that he was also elated with his promotion. “It was a long time coming, a lot of hard work - as I have been transferred here for many years now. I started in South Eleuthera back in 1998, working there for a few years. I was then transSee RBPF Promotions
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More Than 600 candidates Nominate for Upcoming Local Government Elections Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs, the Hon. Clay Sweeting, said he is pleased with the number of individuals who recently nominated for the upcoming Local Government elections to be held on January 27th, 2022. Nomination Day on January 6th saw some 617 persons nominated throughout the country. “The number of candidates that recently nominated for Local Government elections proves that Bahamians across our Family Islands want to get involved in the governance of our country,” he said. “It is evident through their involvement that we will work together to develop our communities and positively impact the lives of Family Islanders. I am excited and congratulate all of them and wish them great success in the upcoming elections.” As of January 12th, 2022 there
were 92 districts up for grabs. The minister said that he is looking forward to working with the elected candidates for the betterment of their communities. He added that there are plans to increase the power of Local Government and other councils. “With the
Department of Local Government, we want to enhance and strengthen that, to look at the legislation and see how we can provide revenue raising powers for these Local Government practitioners in the Family Islands. We want them to be able to really function properly and give them the powers that they were meant to have and to decentralize a lot of the government services,” Minister Sweeting said. “Once we are able to amend the legislation to provide revenue raising power, to increase the budget like we committed to and provide more funding to these districts, then they will feel like they have the leeway to do more of the things that they want to do. We are also working along with a number of industries to decentralize a lot of these processes that have been centralized. The idea of local government was to get the approvals locally and to eliminate a lot of the red tape.”
He continued, “We will work along with other ministries in order to facilitate our vision for this. People that live in the Family Islands understand the needs for their communities and in order to be successful as a government we must ensure that family islanders are engaged. They can help to plan a developmental strategy for local government that creates successful communities.” Having started his political career, as a young councilor in local government, Minister Sweeting stated that for anyone who is interested in politics or in serving their communities, local government is an avenue of doing that. “Councils across this country have done some great work in their communities. This could not have happened without the sacrifice of council members and other volunteers. BeP31 ing new to politics or to
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Dump sites in settlements throughout Eleuthera have been eyesores and left without proper management for many years. The kickoff of the holiday season, combined with an uptick in winter travel, along with ongoing construction activity across the island, saw a number of locations overwhelmed, and it came to a head as the new year began. Photos of the Palmetto Point public dump circulating during the New Year’s holiday weekend showed mounds of garbage piled up at the entrance, and spilling over onto the other side of the Queen’s Highway. A former local councilor commented, saying, “The present budget allocation for the maintenance of the dump is not adequate. In fact, successive governments are out of touch with the reality on the ground. Central Eleuthera is growing exponentially and the present budget allocation doesn’t address the actual capacity for local government to adequately deal with this mammoth task.” Member of Parliament for Central Eleuthera, the Hon. Clay Sweeting, on January 3rd, 2022, responding to a question about what the government planned to do about the overwhelmed locations in both the immediate and long term, said, “I have spoken to the Minister responsible. He has assured me of a site visit and a proper plan to resolve the issue at both the Palmetto Point and Tarpum Bay dump sites as we have been plagued with the issue for years. We hope to bring resolution to this issue as soon as possible. In the meantime I am working on an immediate plan to clean up.”
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New Flat Rate for merchants as the
reduced VAT rate
(from 12% to 10%) became effective on January 1 At the end of December 2021, during the weekly press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister held on Thursday, December 30th, 2021, PM Davis, confirmed the reduction in the value added tax rate from 12% to 10%, to take effect on January 1st, 2022. He commented, “All Bahamians will feel the benefit of reduced VAT immediately. You will have a little more money in your pocket, and when you spend that money, the government will make up the revenue which would otherwise have been lost by the rate cut. This is what dozens of other countries have done during the pandemic. We want Bahamians to receive the same benefit.” Communication from the Office of the Prime Minister stated, “The new VAT rate becomes effective, January 1st,
2022. On that date and thereafter, VAT registrants must sell goods and services at the new VAT rate of 10%. VAT will be charged on imported goods at 10% by Customs.” To the question of lay-away items collected after January 1st, 2022, the Ministry of Finance explained, “Based on the time of supply rules, if an item was placed on lay-away before the change of rate and the goods were not collected by December 31st, 2021, the rate of 10% will apply to the sale. Unless the contract provides otherwise, the merchant will be required to reduce the amount payable for the sale by the amount of the rate change. The merchant will report the change as input tax adjustment in the return for the period in which the refund is granted and upload the credit note to support the transaction.” For business services that were zerorated and made exempt by the VAT Amendment December 2021, the Ministry clarified, “If after the amendments all services provided are now categorized as exempt supplies, the business will no longer be able to claim any input tax credits and must cancel its VAT registration.” Retailers questioning how much time they would have to change the price reflected on their goods in store, were answered, “The new rate of 10% is required to be charged on all goods sold on January 1st, 2022 and thereafter. However, there will be a transition period of 90 days from the effective date whereby retailers will be allowed to change their shelf prices.” For merchants who participate in the flat rate scheme, it was pointed out, “The new flat rate scheme is 6.5%. Those who have been approved by the Department of Inland Revenue (DIR) to participate in the flat rate scheme will charge 10% for the goods but report 6.5% on the tax return.” For further details, the public is advised to visit (https://inlandrevenue.finance.gov. bs) to read the VAT Guidance on the 2021 Amendments.
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COVID-19 - Cases Surge with new variant;
Hospitalizations and Deaths not mirroring new surge to-date National and Local figures The Bahamas experienced an exponential surge in the number of daily reported positive cases of coronavirus during the week leading up to the 2021 Christmas and Boxing Day holidays, with 26 cases reported on Monday, December 20th, 79 reported cases the following day, and another 140 positive cases on Wednesday, December 22nd, 2021. This trend continued during the next two weeks, peaking on January 7th, 2022, when 818 daily positive cases were reported. Active positive COVID-19 cases in The Bahamas stood at 535 on December 20th, and by January 7th, this number had risen by nearly ten times to 5,299 active cases in the country. Hospitalizations rose at a much slower pace comparatively with 21 people in hospital on December 20th, and a reported 98 people in hospital on January 7th. Almost one week later, on Thursday, January 13th, active COVID-19 cases had increased by more than a thousand to 6,414, with
Pictured: Bahamas delegation in Cuba, recruiting nurses to aid in boosting the healthcare system. 123 people hospitalized. Noteworthy, the country’s death toll on December 20th, 2021 stood at 713 people since the beginning of the pandemic, and despite the mete-
oric rise in positive cases during the following weeks - on January 13th, the total number of deaths in country from COVID-19 was 717. In Eleuthera, according to health
officials, as of Wednesday, January 12th, 2022 the total number of active COVID-19 cases stood at 193 across the island. A significant number of people throughout Eleuthera were in quarantine at 281. However in the two weeks preceding January 12th, no COVID-19 hospitalizations or deaths were reported. By district in Eleuthera, as of January 12th, 2022, there were 45 active cases in Harbour Island, 28 in North Eleuthera, 27 in Spanish Wells, 70 in Central Eleuthera, and 23 in South Eleuthera. There were 10 people in quarantine in Harbour Island, 52 in North Eleuthera, 40 in Spanish Wells, 149 in Central Eleuthera, and 30 in South Eleuthera. As of January 15th, 2022, health officials reported that 11,354 doses of vaccine had been administered in The Eleutheras, and 5,614 Eleutherans were considered to be fully vaccinated.
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Health Minister Dr. Darville Updates on Containment Measures: Minister of Health and Wellness, the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville at a press conference on December 29th, 2021 at the Office of the Prime Minister revealed measures to contain the spread of the Omicron COVID-19 variant believed to be presently causing the fourth pandemic surge in the Bahamian community. He stated, “The containment measures include hiring of additional medical personnel; sourcing of new COVID-19 drugs; acquisition of Grosvenor Close Nursing Building for an Infectious Diseases ward to regain use of the South Beach Polyclinic for primary care; in partnership with private sector labs, offer of free Rapid Antigen Tests for asymptomatic residents at multiple centres throughout New Providence. There will also be distribution of free medical grade masks at vaccination centres starting this week in New Providence.” Minister Darville said: “As your new minister, I have been working closely with health professionals in my Ministry over the past three months; preparing for the possibility of new waves of the virus and to better address some of the challenges we encountered during the difficult COVID-19 third wave. By way of Health Services Rules we have tightened testing at our borders to reduce the importation of new cases; while refusing to give approvals to mass gatherings throughout the country that can easily become super spreader events as the COVID-19 cases continue to rise. “One of the most pressing issues we face in healthcare delivery is the shortage of nurses, doctors and support staff. I am pleased to confirm that next week we will bring on board 12 additional doctors. We are also in the final recruitment exercise to add an additional 50 specialty nurses to our healthcare system. They will provide essential services and we pray that contracts will be finalized early next week [Dr. Darville and a delegation visited Cuba during the weekend of January 7th and 8th, interviewing with a number of nursing personnel - fifty of whom were welcomed into The Bahamas on Friday, January 14th, 2022]. “Our nurses and doctors have gone beyond the call of duty despite outstanding industrial agreements. I have spoken with the Honorable Prime Minister on these outstanding matters and I assure you, negotiations will begin early in 2022 to finalize these outstanding matters and begin the long awaited promotion exercise across the board, at the Ministry of Health and Wellness.” He continued that another important component in the fight is the sourcing of new COVID-19 drugs. “We recently
signed contracts to acquire these drugs including monoclonal antibodies, which have been proven to be effective for rapid recovery from the virus.” On the acquisition of Grosvenor Close Nursing Building: “We are all aware of the space challenges we experienced during the most recent third wave of COVID-19. I am happy to report that after negotiations with the University of The Bahamas School of Nursing, my Ministry has temporarily acquired the Grosvenor Close Nursing Building. A contract will be awarded next week to begin the necessary renovations needed to transform that building into a much needed Infectious Diseases Ward to aid in our fight against COVID-19. At its completion we expect to be able to accommodate an additional 100 COVID-19 patients at that location. “This additional facility will finally allow us to free up the South Beach Polyclinic. Bringing this clinic back into service to provide essential, primary healthcare services for that community.” With respect to testing, Minister Darville reiterated: “As discussed on numerous occasions, one key element in our fight against COVID-19 is the importance of testing. The sooner people know their status, the sooner appropriate action can be taken to isolate, provide necessary care and prevent exponential spread. “In partnership with private sector labs, my Ministry will begin offering free Rapid Antigen Tests for asymptomatic residents at multiple centers throughout New Providence. This is part of our ongoing pilot testing program, prior to the launch of the government’s national free testing program. Once the digital platform is completed that would finally marry testing with contact tracing.” Affirming the pandemic protocols important to containment of virus spread, Minister Darville reminded: “We know that this omicron variant is more infectious than all other variants and when someone laughs, sings, coughs, sneezes or simply breathes, the droplets they expel can spread to others who are in close proximity. We also know that some of the drop-
lets can linger in the air or on surfaces. This is why frequent, proper hand washing, maintaining distances of six feet from others, avoiding crowded plac-
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es, cleaning and disinfecting regularly and wearing a well fitted mask indoors and outdoors around people, is important. “As it is recommended, regardless of vaccination status, you can double mask or wear a medical grade mask. Your government will embark upon the distribution of free medical grade masks at vaccination sites starting this week in New Providence. “We know from the science that persons who have been vaccinated are less likely to be hospitalized or die from COVID-19. Vaccines are safe and effective against the severe effects of the virus,” he concluded. ------Caption:
Health Minister Dr. Darville (BIS Photos/Ulric Woodside)
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Eleuthera is Buzzing Eleuthera performed extremely well on the property stage in 2021 with a strong surge in sales to Bahamians and particularly newcomers. Non-Bahamians dominated the high-end market as the Eleuthera islands became the buzz word for pandemic weary investors seeking a haven and a means to hedge their bets against inflation. Sales to Bahamians continued to trend with Eleuthera enticing locals from the hustle and bustle of New Providence. Most readers are too young to remember the 1930s-50s when a set of wealthy tax migrants and dreamers set up second homes and launched developments in Eleuthera. Those were the days when highflyers like Pan Am Airlines founder Juan Trippe, Lord Mountbatten and the American industrialists Henry J. Kaiser and Arthur Vining Davis called the mainland home. The visionary philanthropist, Austin T. Levy, built the Hatchet Bay dairy and poultry farm on thousands of acres, creating a village and employing hun-
dreds of Bahamians from nearby Alice Town. And famed British explorer Rosita Forbes built her fabled Unicorn Cay, a 7,000 square foot home where she entertained prolifically in the winter months. She said Eleuthera was so magical, unicorns could live here. Many years later, in 1982, Prince Charles and Princess Di honeymooned at Windermere Island, enjoying the beauty and the hospitality of the people, not to mention delicious fresh bread from the ovens of Savannah Sound’s Henry Sands. The following year, the couple returned, Princess Di expecting her first child, Prince William. Bikini images of Princess Di on a stunning Eleuthera beach flashed around the world. The gilded era has long passed, but Eleuthera has once again emerged as a key player on the Bahamian real estate scene, captivating audiences with its unspoiled beauty. The Covid property boom has provided a much-needed boost to the government’s empty coffers and pri-
New Year’s, 2022 vate businesses, such as restaurants, grocery stores and car rentals, as well as new construction. Many others are benefitting fishermen, farmers, landscapers, caretakers and excursion operators. A friend who recently rented a Bahamian-owned vacation home in Eleuthera told me how thrilled everyone was when a fisherman arrived at their doorstep unannounced with fresh fish for sale. They bought a grouper and enjoyed fresh boiled fish the following morning. I have long suspected it was only a matter of time before mainland Eleuthera was rediscovered. Traveling through the lush countryside of rolling hills dotted with gorgeous beaches, the colourful towns and villages, I am always struck by the dramatic beauty of the mainland and the warmth of the people. I think back to the golden years of the Hatchet Bay farm with nostalgia and hope one day this beautiful property will be put to good use. My mind runs to the late Thompson brothers’ pineapple
By Mike Lightbourn Questions or comments? Contact me at info@cbbahamas.com Mike Lightbourn is president of Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty. fields – the pineapple and tomato cannery and the pineapple rum. The pineapple is a symbol of hospitality in the settlement of Gregory Town because of their hard work. Time marches on. Today there is a new push to P13
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Commonwealth Caribbean countries – all Republics by 2030?
By Sir Ronald Sanders
(The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States and the OAS. He is a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies, University of London and Massey College in the University of Toronto. The views expressed are his own) By 2030, it is more than likely that the eight independent Commonwealth countries which are still monarchical states, with Queen Elizabeth II as their Sovereign, will become Republics. In doing so, the eight countries will join the other four Commonwealth Caribbean countries that have already separated from the Queen, approving one of their citizens as President. The eight remaining monarchies are: Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Belize, Grenada, Jamaica, St Kitts-Nevis, St Lucia and St Vincent and the Grenadines. Countries that are already Republics are: Barbados, Dominica, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago. Of the latter four, only Guyana has an Executive President who is directly elected by the electorate. In the other three countries, the President, carries out largely ceremonial duties. In those countries that have converted to Republican status with non-executive Presidents, the role of the President is no different in substance to the duties performed by a Governor-General. The simple but fundamental difference is
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get the Cotton Bay Club in South Eleuthera going again, which would create much needed jobs. Spanish Wells and Harbour Island with their historic and welcoming townships continue to serve as model communities. Despite all the hardship and uncertainty, Eleuthera stands as a beacon of hope in these turbulent times.
that the Head of State is not a person, living in a distant land and who is not participating in the daily concerns of the society. The further important difference is that the Head of State is not also the hereditary Sovereign of Britain, the country that exercised colonial control for centuries. The anachronism of the Sovereign of Britain also being the Sovereign of Caribbean states has long been recognized in the region. The reluctance to undertake the change to a Republic, with a President drawn from the citizenry of the country, is the consequence of concern about the political advantage that could be sought by political parties during national debate, leading to a referendum to decide the matter. When a referendum was held in St Vincent and the Grenadines in 2009, it became politically contentious with speculation about the motivation of the Government of Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves. Suggestions were also made that the country would lose investment from foreigners who would be concerned about perceived protections that would be lost by separation from the Queen. The referendum in St Vincent and the Grenadines failed. The Government of Barbados was able to sidestep a referendum on the change from Monarchy to Republic because the country’s constitution did not require a referendum. This was also the case in Dominica, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago. Parliamentary majorities by the governing parties ensured change without contentious public party-political debate that would most certainly have fomented national division. Guyana is the only one of the four Republics that has an executive Presidency directly elected by the electorate. In 1970, four years after its independence from Britain, its parliament voted for the country to become a Republic with a ceremonial President as is now the case in the other three Commonwealth Caribbean Republics. However, a new constitution was promulgated in 1980, abolishing the ceremonial Presidency and replacing it with an Executive President who is elected in Presidential elections every five years. The problem that the eight remaining monarchies face is that their consti-
Cause to Celebrate: While the last few years have been the most difficult in the country’s modern history, we made it through 2021 without a major storm. This is a major cause for celebration. Happy New Year to all my readers. Wishing you health, peace and prosperity in 2022.
tutions require them to hold referenda to effect a change to Republican status. And, unless consensus is secured by all political parties in each country to endorse Republican status and publicly declare that position in writing, any referendum would become an opportunity for political dispute. Undoubtedly, this was why Jamaica’s elder statesman, PJ Patterson, wrote to the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in December 2021, calling on them to agree to a non-partisan referendum, saying: “It would be a spectacular contribution to building our parliamentary democracy; permitting both Parties to share a single platform in a Campaign to secure National approval and allow one of our own image to become Head of State”. The course open to the present Prime Ministers of the eight monarchical states is to start discussions with the leaders of all political parties in each of their states to agree on the transition to Republican status and on the type of Presidency they want - ceremonial or executive. They would also have to reach broad agreement on consequential changes that would have to be made to their existing constitutions and on checks and balances on the exercise of power. All of this could be inscribed in a Memorandum of Understanding. If the political parties could reach such consensus, their Memorandum of Understanding could then be given to a team of legal experts to draft a new
Constitution for their review and agreement. Once this further agreement is reached, the political parties could then hold town hall meetings, virtual meetings and utilize both traditional and social media platforms to inform their citizens about the new constitution and their status as Republics. It should not be beyond leaders of political parties who acknowledge the anachronism of remaining monarchies to advance this national aspiration. It would be the most non disruptive approach to completing the process of independence in each of these countries. And, while they are taking action to become Republics, they could simultaneously include in their countries’ referenda the decision to end the relationship with the British Privy Council in favour of the Caribbean Court of Justice. None of this would be an insult to the Queen who is universally respected in the Commonwealth Caribbean and whose efforts to serve the people of these countries, even from the distance of Britain, has been deeply appreciated. The time has simply come to manifestly end the Caribbean’s long history of association with Britain as a colonial power, transforming the relationship to a partnership of cooperation with a Commonwealth sister-nation. Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com
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3 Incredible Women, 3 Incredible Businesses Teri M. Bethel An astute person will tell you that if you need something done, find a busy person to do it. Seems like it doesn’t make sense, but it really does. Busy people are doers; they have practiced the art of thinking, solving problems, and making the impossible a reality in a timely fashion. The other side of the coin? Well, let’s just say, when you’re so laid back, that applying yourself is an option; opportunities have a way of just passing you by. While this could be referring to both men and women, we’re going to highlight 3 incredible business women on this fast-developing island of Eleuthera. Mrs. Rose Kirby of Leorose Sunset Beach Restaurant and Bar, Ms. Toni Bethel of Dollar Mart, and Mrs. Agatha Bethel of Sophisticated U. Each have a story to tell. From the outside looking in, you may think their successes were birthed with ease, but the truth be told, it took sacrifice, determination, and the help of family.
back and not miss a stride with sheer determination. “It’s not easy,” Rose remarked, “But the truth is, very few things in life are when you think about it.” Rose is not only committed to providing a memorable experience for her guests, but she is also grateful that she can do her part in the community by hiring capable staff to partner with her in giving the best of Eleuthera to their visitors. Not only do they serve delicious meals, Leorose is open for private events right on their rolling seashore. Now that she has retired, Rose is putting in even more time and energy to make the restaurant one of the island’s top eateries. Leorose is open from 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner with a wide variety of tasty Bahamian delights on the menu. On Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Leorose lights up with live music with Don, Scotty, & Dr. SeaBreeze. Toni Bethel Our youngest featured business lady on the island is none other than Ms. Toni Bethel, the new operator of Dollar Mart, a store that sells affordable household items in James Cistern. Toni comes from a family of business people. The older folks would remem-
Rose Kirby
Ragged Island native, Leo Kirby’s vision.
If you’re passing through James Cistern, you’ll see a fabulous waterfront restaurant enclosed with a tall white picket fence and a friendly sign, Leorose Sunset Beach Restaurant and Bar, beckoning visitors to come in. Anyone with the good fortune to traipse through the welcoming gate will quickly see that they are at one of the island’s most beautiful eating spots. What locals and tourists love about Leorose goes beyond the view as you are literally steps away from the water’s edge, one of the most beautiful features of the Bahama Islands. To try Leorose is to fall in love with Bahamian hospitality. It’s the ambiance, the music, the service, and the food all neatly wrapped in a package. Rose Kirby, the company’s owner, believes that the icing on the cake is her customers. “We get visitors from around the world, from Spanish Wells and Harbour Island as well as our well-loved homegrown customers.” She’s quick to tell you that the eatery was her late husband, a
It is evident that Leo was Rose’s hero, but the truth be told, he was a national hero. Leo served on the Royal Bahamas Defence Force for many years, plowing our waters to protect the nation. In fact, Leo was one of the 15 survivors of the unprovoked, fatal Cuban MIG attack in Bahamian waters in 1980 against the crew of the HMBS Flamingo. Anyone on and off the Force knew that beyond his family, Leo’s passion was cheffing it up in the kitchen and construction. Before leaving the Force, he set his plan in motion to return to Eleuthera, the island Rose’s family hailed from, to build their future. Being the disciplined individual he was, Leo stuck to his plan. “This entire business was Leo’s vision,” Rose reflected as we toured the premises. “It seemed like every day, he had a new idea. It was always something to add to, improve, or enhance the business. But he didn’t wait for mass approval; he jumped right in and began building the dream he had in his heart. Leo virtually built this place, almost singlehandedly.” The truth of the matter is both Leo and Rose, who also worked at the Royal Bahamas Defence Force as a civilian, were well acquainted with hard work, and neither shied away from it. Today Leo’s dream is still alive and well with Rose at the fore. From the outside looking in, you would think that it was her baby from the start as she has lovingly nurtured it with her special brand of Bahamian hospitality. Though the pandemic launched a blow at businesses on the island, Rose Kirby is not one to be railroaded. She was able to bounce
ber her granddad Bernard Bethel, a JC native, now deceased, who relocated from Nassau around 1967 to build his home and petty shop in the Dollar Mart’s building. Their start as a family was in the quaint roadside house they built on the Queen’s Highway, a literal stone’s throw from the beautiful lapping waves across the street. The northern side of the building, which was the petty shop, is now home to Dollar Mart, one of Toni’s mother’s, the late Vernita Bethel’s, business ventures. Mr. Bethel and his wife Sylvia eventually moved to Big Rock some years later, where they built the grocery store and a larger family dwelling for their six children. Back then, they also had a gas pump to service vehicular traffic. They were a family of visionaries. Toni’s grandmother believes that hard work and teamwork got the family where they are today. Some years after Toni’s grandparents Bernard and Sylvia moved to Big Rock, their son Tony, a former police officer with the Royal Bahamas Police Force, returned home to help
New Year’s, 2022 his father with the business. He built his home close to Big Rock, where he and his wife Vernita and their children relocated. Vernita had the brilliant idea of opening a business in the old petty shop, which eventually evolved into Dollar Mart. Toni’s mom was an amazing woman who served her community as an elected member of a Local Township Committee for 3 years. She was actively involved in the leadership of her church as a lay moderator for 6 years. Although she was the office manager at Going Places in Governor’s Harbour for 15 years, this dynamo of a woman was an excellent cook who planned, decorated, and catered events with distinction. As the story goes, Vernita, who recently passed away during the height of the pandemic, did not want to relocate to Eleuthera; she initially kept to herself. However, it wasn’t long before she made her presence felt the length and breadth of the island. Tony was the quieter of the two, a seemingly tireless workhorse who kept the family business going. He was pleasant but never a pushover. To see the two working together in the store would warm your heart or give you a hearty chuckle as Vernita sought to change aspects of the store, much to Tony’s dismay. His vivaciously charismatic wife had a way of making you feel special the moment you walked into any of the family’s businesses. Their daughter Toni is no different from her mom, and she stuck close to her parents as she learned the how-tos of business. Toni, a former beauty queen whose photo is prominently featured in Big Rock, is no stranger to being at the forefront of the countries goingson. Her professional background has spanned over ten years in the hospitality field, working with the Wyndham, Odyssey Aviation, Albany, Sandals, and Beaches, equipping her in the art of customer service. She is committed to giving her customers the same delightful service and products her mother offered, along with the new ideas and innovative goods featuring her line of custom designer candles and more. Though it’s a bitter-sweet time for Toni, she is up to the challenge of filling the large shoes left by her mother, Vernita. Stating that her mother was a one-of-akind lady, a woman of excellence, and now a legend, Toni says she is committed to giving the store her all. “It’s a new season of my life, and I know that my mom is cheering me on.” With the support of her dad, her brother Jamal, an in-demand carpenter on the island, and the rest of her larger-than-life family members, Toni knows that she has what it takes to provide unique products and services to the island. “Eleuthera is an amazing island with great potential,” she says. “I want to contribute significantly to making it an even better place to live
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by providing our community and the entire island with distinct yet affordable products for the home.” Dollar Mart is opened Monday through Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Toni Bethel, a young woman in Eleuthera, continuing a legacy of making a difference in business. Agatha Bethel
There would be no grape juice or fine wine without the crushing of grapes. Like juice making, life has a way of taking you through a sometimes unbearable pressing to process something beautiful beyond the pressure. So it was with local business woman, author, and lawyer, Agatha D. Bethel. Agatha is no stranger to business. So, opening Sophisticated U, a unisex boutique in Palmetto Point, was not an unusual move for her. She learned how to engage in business from her early childhood whenever the need arose. She did not come from a wellto-do family, where every need and desire was fulfilled—quite the contrary, she and her siblings were taught the value of work. Though she did not know it at the time, her family was financially dry. There was always a roof over her head, food on the table, and clothes on her back, but when it came to the frills and thrills, she learned pretty early that the family’s budget was tight. She was, after all, the last of her mother’s 17 children. One of her earliest memories in business was baking sweets and selling them to the local grocery store. She knew that there was no such thing as a free ride. It was also something her parents instilled in her—wants require work! One of her mother’s favorite sayings was “hard work pays off.” Of
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course, they and older siblings chipped in to ensure all her needs were met, but what about those wants? That’s when Agatha became creative. The baked goodies she sold afforded her pocket money for a field trip to England. During that trip, her eyes were open to the vast opportunities that lay before her in the world, opportunities Agatha may not have ever seen had she remained at home. As she grew into young adulthood, Agatha’s business exploits grew to cooking and selling meals and later styling ladies’ hair to supplement her income while working a full-time job. Agatha eventually became a practicing attorney-at-law, establishing her law practice Hailsham’s Legal Associates. Still, she later branched into the clothing business to fulfill her youngest son Renaldo’s dream before his tragic death. So Agatha and her oldest son Devon decided to open the shop in Renaldo’s memory. Several years after opening the doors to their well-stocked first-class boutique on Queen’s Highway, Agatha lost Devon, her remaining son, and the store’s manager. This dynamic woman tells her painful story of losing both sons and her journey to recovery in the recently released book, Against The Odds, which is available at her law office and on Amazon.com, so we won’t rehash it here. Most people would have thrown in the towel; she didn’t. Agatha was determined to turn her tragedy into triumph. Today, the boutique remains open, selling casual, smart casual, and dress wear for men and women, name brand shoes and tennis, jewelry and fragrances, and of course, seasonal items like toys for the kids. Sophisticated U is open Monday through Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. welcoming customers throughout the island of Eleuthera. So you see, when life hands you lemons, you can suck them and become a screwface, or you can add some sugar and water and make it work for you. Well, there you have it. Three incredible women, three extraordinary stories—it’s no wonder Eleuthera has so much promise. We’ve touched on these ladies, but we celebrate everyone contributing to the growth and development of our great islands.
A uthor :
Teri M. Bethel is a publisher and author of relationship enrichment books, Bahamian-inspired romance, and adventure novels for children that share our island’s history and culture. Her books are available where good books are sold in Eleuthera, New Providence, and Amazon.com. Teri and her husband have two adult sons. Website: www.inspirepublishing.com
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Coalition Renews Call for Government Transparency, Nationwide Ban on Oil Drilling (Activists cite 6-month anniversary of license expiration, global carbon reduction imperative, need to sustain Blue Economy livelihoods) The ‘Our Islands Our Future’ coalition renewed its call for a nationwide and permanent ban on oil drilling in The Bahamas. The letter delivered to Prime Minister Davis on January 12th, 2022, also called for full transparency and accounting on the widely-criticized 2021 Perseverance-1 oil drilling debacle. Through the letter, the coalition reiterated their previous requests for a full accounting of oil drilling licenses and fees. This includes unpaid amounts, as well as drilling reports and compliance data for the failed oil well drilled in early 2021 in Bahamian waters southwest of Andros Island. The Coalition also emphasized their previous, and as-yet-unfulfilled, calls for release of documents and full implementation of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Passed in 2017, FOIA provides increased public participation in govern-
ment as well as accountability for government officials in dealing with issues of public health and safety, economic wellbeing, and environmental protection. The Coalition detailed how the failed oil well drilled by Bahamas Petroleum Company (now Challenger Energy Group - CEG) put the entire country at risk and failed to generate any commensurate source of income for The Bahamas. They further pointed to the potential climate impacts of eventual oil production had the well verified commercial quantities of oil in the levels claimed by the company. “If fully exploited in quantities claimed by CEG, it would have exceeded the entire carbon footprint of The Bahamas and 18 other small Caribbean Island nations, over a period of twenty years,” said Chris Wilke of Waterkeeper Alliance. “Rather than feeding the climate crisis and flirting with planetary destruction, The Bahamas now has the opportunity to reject fossil fuel extraction, and build a green economy.” “This foolish project has put our entire nation at risk,” said Casuarina McKinney-Lambert of BREEF. “There is little evidence that there was adequate insurance or oil spill response preparedness.
Instead all we got were empty assurances, with no details.” According to recent CEG statements an insurance “top up” could be needed after-thefact to pay for insuring risks otherwise not fully accounted for at the time of the drilling. “This is why we need to have a full account of the license fees, the compliance reports, quantity, and type of any toxic material discarded to the seafloor, the insurance certificates, and the level of available real response capability should an accident have occurred.” According to recent CEG statements an insurance “top up” could be needed after-the-fact to pay for insuring risks otherwise not fully accounted for at the time of the drilling. This is cause for concern given that neither the level of insurance coverage nor the minimum required by the government was ever made public. “The Bahamas oil drilling issue caught global attention. “The fact that, as stated by CEG, the insurer, Lloyd’s of London, may now be requesting a “top-up” payment for Well Control Insurance strikes me as unusual” Lindsay Keenan, European Coordinator of the Insure Our Future network said. “That, along with the fact that despite numerous requests no details of the insurance coverage have ever been provided, should raise red flags.” The groups also called attention to the financial status and recent public statements by the company, which appear to distance themselves from potential future operations in The Bahamas. For example, CEG’s latest annual report does not discuss ongoing operations in the country, despite rosy promises earlier in the year, as well as apparent frustration by shareholders, and a 96% reduction in stock price since January 2021. CEG had applied to renew its licenses in early 2021, but apparently hasn’t paid all license fees that are due to The Bahamas, and the government has said they won’t consider renewal until that is settled. The groups emphasized that it has now been 6 months since expiration, and in December 2021 the company announced a financial settlement with creditors to the level of an 84% reduction in the amount owed. “How can any company be expected to not cut corners in their drilling safety if they won’t pay their own contractors, much less the Bahamian people what is owed? How should we expect them to do the right thing and pick up the tab in the event of an oil spill?,” said Rashema Ingraham of Waterkeep-
Above: Rashema Ingraham of Waterkeepers Bahamas.
Above: Casuarina McKinney-Lambert of Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation.
Above: Lindsay Keenan, European Coordinator of the Insure Our Future Network Educational Foundation. ers Bahamas. “It’s time to close this chapter once and for all, and declare a countrywide ban on oil drilling. If the government’s hands were tied before, they certainly are not now.” The coalition also referenced the growing importance of climate action amid increasingly dire scientific projections, particularly in vulnerable nations, such as The Bahamas, which are threatened by sea-level rise, hurricanes, and dam-
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BDB Hosts Courtesy Call with One Eleuthera Foundation
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in approved enterprises. OEF is a nonprofit community development organization that collaborates with different community actors and organizations to address Eleuthera’s challenges and opportunities. OEF undertakes projects and programs that focus on sustainable development around five key areas: education, economy, environment, health, and heritage and have developed a comprehensive plan for the island. Both organizations emphasize development impact with a sustainable, inclusive focus. The meeting provided an opportunity to touch upon opportunities for collaboration between the entities to jointly support development in Eleuthera.
Above: (Left to Right) Yolanda Pawar – OEF Chief Communications Officer, Sumayyah Cargill – Unit Head, BDB Strategic Development & Initiatives, Senator the Hon. Quinton Lightbourne – BDB Chairman, Keyron Smith – OEF Chief Project Officer, Lane Glaze – OEF-US President. The Bahamas Development Bank hosted a courtesy call with The One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF), during the first week of December 2021, as part of what The Bank described as their “ongoing commitment to inclusive Family Island development”. OEF was represented by Lane Glaze, President of OEF-US, Yolanda Pawar, Chief Communications Officer, and Keyron Smith, Chief Project Officer. This call follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding be-
age to coral health. Continued development of fossil fuels is exacerbating an already perilous situation. The Secretary General of The United Nations called the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report, released in August 2021, a “Code Red for Humanity.” Among other indicators, the report called for “deep and sustained reductions” in carbon-emitting fossil fuels like oil, gas, and coal. In June 2021, the International Energy Agency stated that any pathway to “net zero emissions” must include, “from today, no investment in new fossil fuel supply projects.” The coalition implored the government to institute a lasting ban “instead of simultaneously filling the dual roles of climate victims and of a fossil fuel colony for investors,” stating The Bahamas has an opportunity to show real leadership. “We are a country of leaders and we can continue to develop a sustainable Blue Economy to support Bahamian entrepreneurs that is based on a healthy environment that doesn’t include oil rigs,” continued McKinney-Lambert. “But it has to be real. It has to include a ban so we can put this issue to rest once and for all.”
tween the entities earlier in the year. They were received by Senator the Hon. Quinton Lightbourne, Chairman of The Bank, along with Ashley Outten- Financial Controller, Troy Sampson-Business Development Manager, and Sumayyah Cargill- Unit Head of Strategic Development and Initiatives. BDB is mandated under the Bahamas Development Bank Act, 1974, to promote industrial, agricultural, and commercial development through financing and investing
Above: Chris Wilke of Waterkeeper Alliance “We need the certainty of a ban,” added Ingraham. “Unless we have a ban it will always be potentially on the table, dividing us.” The group vowed to help the government move forward with a ban, and to support growing a sustainable tourism economy for the benefit of all Bahamians. About the Coalition:
Our Islands Our Future is a grassroots coalition of over 150 concerned businesses and organizations working toward a sustainable future for the Bahamas. More than 90,000 people have signed a petition calling for a permanent ban on oil drilling. BREEF, Waterkeepers Bahamas, and Waterkeeper Alliance serve as steering committee members of the coalition. www.ourislandsourfuture.org
Areas of potential synergy included the Cravo Cooling House, poultry housing, and partnership on the “Learn and Earn” education and vocational training series. BDB provided a small grant award to qualifying students from this year’s Learn and Earn Hydroponics course and indicated an interest in continuing with upcoming cohorts. BDB intends to travel to Eleuthera in the new year to visit the OEF facilities discussed and progress financing opportunities for persons on that island.
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Tribute Paid to the Life of Sir Sidney Poiter on his Passing Davis said.
Sir Sidney Poitier, at the age of 94, passed away on January 6th, 2022.
“Think of the imagination that must have required -- he could not have had any role models for what he wanted to achieve, for that’s what it means to be the first.” He also spoke on the firsts that Sir Sidney achieved during his life. “He was the first black actor to be nominated for a Best Actor Academy Award, and the first to win one; the first to star as a romantic lead; the first to become the number one box office star in the United States; the first black actor to be knighted by the British Crown; the first to be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honour awarded in the United States; the first to become a hero to both black and white audiences,” Prime Minister Davis pointed out. “And then there’s the one I can’t stop thinking about -- when he insisted in 1969 that the crew for one of his films be at least 50 percent black, that was a first, too,” he added. “When he opened doors to opportunity, he made sure those doors opened for others, too.” “His determination not to accept parts based on negative stereotypes had an impact on millions of moviegoers, black and white,” Prime Minister Davis said, and gave examples through the roles that Sir Sidney portrayed in his best-known movies. “In ‘A Patch of Blue,’ Sir Sidney’s character Gor-
Sir Sidney Poitier. Born on February 20th, 1927, to Bahamian parents Evelyn (neé Outten) and Reginald James Poitier, this ‘native son’ of great talent, charisma, dignity and grace, became an icon of Hollywood, and a legend in the film and entertainment industry. In a tribute to the Legendary Bahamian Film Icon, the Bahamas Ministry of Foreign Affairs shared, “Sir Sidney is famed for breaking the racial barrier in the film industry when he became the first black actor to win an Oscar in the best male category for the film, ‘Lilies of the Field’, in 1963. He was also renowned for starring in films such as ‘“Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner”, “In the Heat of the Night”, and “To Sir, With Love”, films which addressed highly sensitive colour and race issues. He was also a film producer, activist and author of his autobiography, ‘The Manner of A Man’. “Sir Sidney represented The Bahamas on the international stage as the Ambassador of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas to Japan from 1997 to 2007, and then as the Ambassador to UNESCO during the period 2002-2007. In recognition of his achievements and in celebration of his stature, the former Paradise Island Bridge linking New Providence to Paradise Island was renamed, ‘The Sidney Poitier Bridge’. He touched many people’s hearts wherever he went bridging racial and cultural divides; his legacy will live on in the minds, hearts and souls of the Bahamian people.” Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis, on January 12th, 2022 while in the House of Assembly presented an expansive tribute on the passing of Sir Sidney Poitier, expounding on his amazing career, life, and accomplishments. “As Bahamians mourn its nation’s loss, they marvel at how far Sir Sidney traveled, and the courage it must have required... When he was a teenager in New York, far from family and home, washing dishes, looking for opportunities, struggling to survive, and cold – and we all know how cold a New York winter can feel for Bahamians – he had the courage to dream of a much different future for himself,” Prime Minister
don befriends a young blind woman, who does not know, at first, that she is falling in love with a black man; it was his strength and his character that were visible to her... In ‘The Defiant Ones,’ two inmates, one black and the other a white racist, escape a chain-gang, shackled to each other. The two men begin as enemies, but then, first out of necessity, but later out of genuine recognition of the other’s humanity, become allies. When Sir Sidney’s character makes it safely on to a train, he does not leave Tony Curtis’s character behind. It was a film that was progressive for its time, a film about humanity triumphing over bigotry... ‘In the Heat of the Night,’ Sir Sidney played Virgil Tibbs, a Philadelphia homicide detective. His character is slapped by a plantation owner whom he’s investigating. Even though it wasn’t in the script, Sir Sidney insisted his character slap him right back. They called it ‘the slap heard round the world’.” Sir Sidney’s impact extended far beyond the choices he made in the film business, Prime Minister Davis noted. “As the current president of the National Urban League said, ‘He was one of the first that spoke out for racial justice at a time when it was risky’.” PM Davis pointed out that Sir Sidney also P19 cared deeply about Major-
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ity Rule and Independence in The Bahamas. “And of course, he participated in the civil rights movement in the United States, supporting the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and going with his friend and fellow entertainer Harry Belafonte to Mississippi to deliver a much-needed cash infusion to Freedom Summer civil rights activists in 1964,” Prime Minister Davis added. “Their fame did not protect them from danger; they were chased and harassed by armed Klansman.” He noted: “What an extraordinary life Sir Sidney had – he played icons and legends on the screen, from US Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall to South Africa’s Nelson Mandela, and off-screen he was honored and praised by no less than Dr. Martin Luther King, who called him ‘a man of great depth, a man of great social concern’ who was ‘dedicated to human rights and freedom’.” Prime Minister Davis stated that he was grateful for an opportunity he had, in 2012, as then Deputy Prime Minister, to speak at a dinner honouring Sir Sidney in Los Angeles, and to thank him for all that he had done for arts and culture, civil rights, and The Bahamas. “In 2015, a Bahamian delegation returning from Asia had the opportunity to stop in Los Angeles to visit Sir Sidney,” he added. “When asked what he would say to young Bahamians, I am reminded that he responded: ‘All I can say to them is wherever they go, whatever they do, they must remember that they come from one of the greatest countries in the world’.” Prime Minister Davis said that it is always important to honour the legacies of exceptional Bahamian sons and daughters, for this was how citizens deepen their culture and strengthen their national identity. He noted that Sir Sidney overcame incredible odds to attain global acclaim, and in the process, he inspired the affection and respect of millions. But before the lights of Hollywood, before the honours and accolades, before the praise of Presidents, there was Cat Island, Prime Minister Davis added. He said: “In a book he called his spiritual autobiography, ‘The Measure of a Man,’ Sir Sidney said it was his childhood on Cat Island that gave him his values, his sense of right and wrong. ‘In the kind of place where I grew up,’ he wrote, ‘what’s coming at you is the sound of the sea and the smell of the wind and momma’s voice and the voice of your dad and the craziness of your brothers and sisters…and that’s it’.” The Bahamas Prime Minister listed a few of the facets of Sir Sidney, noting: “A Cat Islander. A Bahamian. An actor, a director, a writer, a producer. An activist, a diplomat, and a philanthropist. A history-maker, and a barrierbreaker.”
Condolences were extended to Sir Sidney’s widow, Joanna Shimkus-Poitier, and his children. “May he rest in peace.”
Above: Sidney Poitier, his wife Joanna Shimkus, and their two children Anika and Sidney circa the 1990s - Source Getty Images.
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Government and Cotton Bay Holdings Ltd.
enter new agreement for South Eleuthera Property The Government of The Bahamas entered into a new Heads of Agreement with Cotton Bay Holdings Ltd. for the addition of The Ritz-Carlton to that South Eleuthera property. This will translate, they said, into a rebounding tourism product and hundreds of jobs for Bahamians - in keeping with the new administration’s pledge in its ‘Blue Print for Change’ to bring focused attention to the promotion of trade and investment into the country. The Heads of Agreement was signed during a ceremony at the Office of the Prime Minister on Monday, December 6th, 2021. Present were the Hon. Philip Davis, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance; the Hon. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation; Secretary to the Cabinet Nicole Campbell; Leon Lundy, Parliamentary Secretary, Office of the Prime Minister; Phylicia WoodsHanna, Director of Investments, Bahamas Investments Authority; Carol Young, Bahamas Investment Authority; Daniel Zuleta Martinez, Local Manager, Cotton Bay Holdings Ltd; Alejandro Acevedo, The Ritz-Carlton; and Lynn Holowesko, Attorney. Throwing his support behind the reinstatement of the agreement, Prime Minister Davis said Cotton Bay is “an igniting of the past,” and that branding is important as he referred to The Ritz-Carlton. The Deputy Prime Minister underscored the importance of investments to the local economy of Eleuthera. “Investments have been the lifeblood of the economy. We have been restoring and bringing in new investments,” he said, adding that it is the intention of the government to facilitate the “ease of doing business and being investor friendly.” Mr. Zuleta Martinez said he was happy to launch the project, which is aimed at growing the economy of Eleuthera and creating opportunities for young people. An estimated 500 people will be employed to construct the 90-room property with a 60-villa Ritz Carlton over a 48-month period. At its completion, some 200 Bahamians are expected to be fully employed. The total cost is projected at $200 million. The deputy prime minister stressed that a Compliance Unit will be instituted to ensure fulfillment of the terms and conditions of all such Heads of Agreement. It will also ensure that Bahamians get first preference for employment opportunities, where available. “This is another phi-
Above: Pictured from left: Phylicia Woods-Hanna, Director of Investments, Bahamas Investment Authority; the Hon. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation; the Hon. Philip Davis, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance; Nicole Campbell, Secretary to the Cabinet; Lynn Holowesko, Attorney; Daniel Zuleta Martinez, Local Manager, Cotton Bay Holdings Ltd., Eleuthera; Alejandro Acevedo, VP Development Caribbean and Latin America, The Ritz-Carlton; and Chris Larson. (BIS Photo/Kemuel Stubbs)
losophy of the Davis Administration,” he said. The first signing was done under the former Christie Administration; however, according to the deputy prime minister, investors are ready to proceed, as “the environment is now ripe for investment.” He added, “it is an important beginning and a bright future for residents of South Eleuthera in terms of job creation, new business opportunities and economic growth. We have seen increased interest in investment. The RitzCarlton brand is good for Eleuthera and we are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.” Regarding this “new uptick” in interest and “a new day” the minister said people have gotten the message that The Bahamas is open for business in an investor friendly environment. “There is pent up demand for tourism. The Caribbean is rebounding faster than the world and The Bahamas is rebounding faster than the Caribbean.” Regarding the new Omicron variant, the minister observed that The Bahamas does not exist in a vacuum and that it has effectively managed the COVID-19 pandemic through enhanced protocols. “So far it appears no more dangerous than the Delta variant but we are cautiously optimistic. The Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Health [and Wellness] are ready to face the challenges.” And, with the recent hike in airlift into the country, the minister said that the demand for rooms would continue to drive air traffic.
Above: Daniel Zuleta Martinez, Local Manager, Cotton Bay Holdings Ltd., Eleuthera, signs Heads of Agreement between the Bahamas Government and Cotton Bay Holdings Ltd for the addition of The Ritz-Carlton to that South Eleuthera property. The agreement was signed during a ceremony at the Office of the Prime Minister on Monday, December 6, 2021. Looking on are the Hon. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation; the Hon. Philip Davis, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance; Lynn Holowesko, attorney; and standing, Phylicia Woods-Hanna, Director of Investments, Bahamas Investment Authority. (BIS Photo/Kemuel Stubbs) Nicole Campbell, Secretary to the Cabinet, signs Heads of Agreement between the Bahamas Government and Cotton Bay Holdings Ltd. for the addition of The RitzCarlton to that South Eleuthera property. The agreement was signed during a ceremony at the Office of the Prime Minister on Monday, December 6, 2021. Looking on are Leon Lundy, Parliamentary Secretary, Office of the Prime Minister; and Phylicia Woods-Hanna, Director of Investments, Bahamas Investment Authority. (BIS Photo/Kemuel Stubbs)
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New Contact Tracing Protocols and New Quarantine and Isolation Measures On Thursday, January 6th, the Ministry of Health and Wellness released reminders to the Bahamian public about new contact tracing protocols which came into effect as of January 1st, 2022, due to the increasing numbers of positive cases of COVID-19 being reported, as well as an adjustment to public health measures for people who test positive for COVID-19 or are close contacts of positive cases. Concerning new contact tracing protocols, the release read, “The Ministry of Health & Wellness reminds the public that as of January 1st, 2022, individuals who have been identified as COVID-19 cases or as close contacts of a confirmed case, will be contacted by the Surveillance Unit via telephone or SMS messaging. “If you receive an SMS message from the Ministry’s Surveillance Unit, please follow the instructions given. It is also very important that you click on the link provided in the message, complete then submit the registration form. The information submitted will better assist the team with contact tracing and in managing your time in isolation or quarantine.” The release in reference to adjusted health measures stated, “The Ministry of Health & Wellness reminds the public that quarantine and isolation are public health measures intended to reduce the spread of diseases, such as COVID-19. The way that COVID-19 behaves, continues to change. To help protect the citizens and residents of The Bahamas, the Ministry of Health & Wellness will continue to adjust its public health measures as necessary. “The following updated information applies to vaccinated and unvaccinated people who test positive for COVID-19:
COVID-19 Isolation:- Isolation is used to separate people with COVID-19 from others. If you have tested positive with a RT-PCR or Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) and are asymptomatic or have mild to moderate illness and are not immunocompromised you should: •
- Isolate for seven (7) days. Day one (1) of isolation begins the day after you took your test. On Day five (5), six (6) or seven (7) of your isolation you can test again with a RT-PCR or RAT. If your test is negative you can be released from isolation; however, you must wear an N95/KN95 mask for up to three (3) days after your release.
OR • - Isolate for ten (10) days; if no test is performed on day 5-7 or the test at day 5-7 is positive and your symptoms have improved (if applicable), with at least 24 hours without medication and no fever present. Then you can be released from isolation. If you have tested positive with a RT-PCR or RAT and are severely symptomatic or immunocompromised you should: •
- Isolate for twenty (20) days and continue to monitor the severity of your symptoms.
OR • - Have a consultation with a physician. The physician may determine if you can be released from isolation earlier (no sooner than 10 days), or if longer isolation is required. The following updated information applies to people who are close contacts of COVID-19 cases:
COVID-19 Quarantine:-
Quarantine is used to separate people who are well but may have been exposed to COVID-19. • If you have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 and you are fully vaccinated and are not immunocompromised: You ARE NOT required to quarantine; however, after you are informed of your exposure you should take a RT-PCR or RAT on day five (5). Limit your movement
to only essential activities (medical care and work if the necessary protective measures are in place) until your day five (5) test results return as negative. If you are returning to the healthcare setting, continue to practice physical distancing, proper use of personal protective equipment and sanitizing in public spaces for a period of ten days. If your test is positive, follow the above stated guidelines for isolation.
physical distancing, proper use of personal protective equipment and sanitizing in public spaces for a period of fourteen days. If your test is positive, follow the above stated guidelines for isolation. Individuals who are immunocompromised and test positive for COVID-19 or are close contacts of cases, should adhere to the existing polices for quarantine and isolation.”
If you are unvaccinated and are not immunocompromised: •
You ARE required to quarantine for ten (10) days. On day ten (10) you can test with a RTPCR or RAT. If your test is negative, you can be released from quarantine on day eleven (11). If you are returning to the healthcare setting, continue to practice
--Source: Bahamas Ministry of Health and Wellness
22 www. EleutheraNews . com
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Princess Cays Craft Vendors Honoured
Pictured above: Local Ministry of Tourism officials and RBPF officials stand with some of the Princess Cays Craft Center Vendors who successfully completed BahamaHost in December 2021. On Wednesday morning, December 22nd, 2021, the Ministry of Tourism held a ceremony at the Urban Renewal Center in Green Castle to recognize the group of Princess Cays Craft Center vendors who had successfully completed their BahamaHost training earlier in December. The Princess Cays Craft Center Vendors BahamaHost class session ran from November 9th to December 9th, 2021 with twenty-eight vendors taking part. Class trainer and facilitator with the Ministry of Tourism, Mrs. Deborah Fox, shared that all of the vendors at Princess Cays signed on for the virtual classes, “Each one of the vendors passed the BahamaHost course, and we had a very special lady, Mrs. Inez Annismae Curtis who received the Lionel Elliot Award for Eleuthera at the end of the session, for her spirit of excellence and willingness to go above and beyond - standing out from the crowd.” “It was gratifying to have the vendors at Princess Cays 100% BahamaHost trained. They took in what we imparted, because they are now thinking about tweaking some things that they are doing at the Craft Center to make it even better. So, we are just so proud of all of the vendors,” lauded Mrs. Fox. Just before vendors who were in attendance were called up for their
certificates, Mrs. Deborah Fox was pinned with a special pineapple pin by Eleuthera Tourism Manager, Jacqueline Gibson, in recognition of her singular dedication in her facilitation of BahamaHost classes across the island. Bernadette Sweeting with Urban Renewal was also singled out for recognition, for her partnership with BahamaHost in being such a consistent and gracious venue host for the duration of the Princess Cay Vendor classes, providing them with a location to access the online classes.
Now Open
10am to 5pm Mon. to Fri.
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Cooperation with the ILO Highlighted By PM Davis During the signing ceremony for a Memorandum of Understanding on the SecondGeneration Bahamas Decent Work Country Programme, on December 6th, 2021, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon.
Philip Davis noted that, over the past 45 years, the International Labour Organization (ILO) had developed a “longstanding program of cooperation” with the Bahamian Social Partners and worked in close part-
Advises on Finalization of National Policy on Industrial and Labour Relations nership with the Government of The Bahamas to address the decent work challenges faced by The Bahamas. “During this period, the Bahamas has, along with other Caribbean States ratified the eight Core ILO Conventions and is extremely proud of the steps taken to promote and encourage the concept of Social Dialogue enshrined in ILO Convention 144 on Tripartite Consultation, that promotes the application of a founding principle of the ILO to bring together governments, employers and workers through tripar-
Above: Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis
Above: Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis takes part in the signing ceremony for a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Labour Organization, for the Second-Generation Bahamas Decent Work Country Programme, on December 6th, 2021, at Jones Communications Building, University Drive. Among those present were Minister of Labour and Immigration the Hon. Keith Bell, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture the Hon. Mario Bowleg; Director of the ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean Dennis Zulu and other ILO representatives; the leaders of The Bahamas’ Social Partner Groupings; current and former Members of Parliament; Director of Labour Robert Farquharson and other Senior Government Officials; President of the Bahamas Christian Council (BCC) Bishop Delton Fernander; trade union leaders; and other stakeholders. (BIS Photos / Eric Rose)
tite social dialogue to develop, implement and promote international labour standards governing all aspects of the world of work,” Prime Minister Davis said at the ceremony held at Jones Communications Building on University Drive. Among those present were Minister of Labour and Immigration the Hon. Keith Bell, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture the Hon. Mario Bowleg; Director of the ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean Dennis Zulu and other P38 ILO representa-
26 www. EleutheraNews . com
CONS E R VATION CORNE R
New Year’s, 2022
New Fisheries Regulations on the Horizon
Written by Dr Nick Higgs, Director of the Cape Eleuthera Institute at The Island School.
It’s now the middle of the annual closed season for Nassau Grouper in The Bahamas, when it’s illegal to catch, sell or purchase these fish (until the 1st of March). You may still see grouper available in restaurants; either they have frozen supplies from November, or it is another species of grouper. In any case, it’s a good idea to ask where your grouper came from when you see it on the menu during closed season. This important regulation protects grouper during the breeding season of this iconic Bahamian fish and was introduced to better regulate the fishery. The grouper closed season was a one-off addition to the Bahamas Fisheries Resources (Jurisdiction and Conservation) Act that has existed since 1977. Much has changed since that time and we are about to see a big shift in the way fisheries are managed in The Bahamas. Just over a year ago, the government passed the new Fisheries Act, 2020. This Act brings about a much-needed modernisation of Bahamian fisheries legislation, providing a new regulatory framework for addressing new and emerging issues in Bahamian fisheries. The new detailed regulations are currently being developed, which will make the legislation a reality on the ground. So, what changes can we expect to see in the coming regulations? Some parts of the Act already came into force in June 2021, including a new ban on foreign nationals working onboard commercial fishing vessels. This essentially reserves commercial fishing for Bahamian citizens only. Many fisheries in The Bahamas are un-
der high fishing pressure so this is a sensible way of limiting fishing pressure. This ban has been met with some controversy in the local press because it excludes non-nationals working under spousal permits, but many other countries have even more restrictive fishing laws.
everything is fair game unless prohibited, to species being prohibited unless specifically allowed to be fished. It is anticipated that species such as sea cumbers will fall into this category, while there may be a ban on parrotfish harvesting because of their ecologically important role in cleaning reefs.
Similarly, only vessels that are owned by Bahamian citizens resident within the country can legally engage in commercial fishing. Any vessels greater than 15 ft in length must also be licensed by the Department for Marine Resources and inspected by the Port Department. Sadly, we still see too many accidents and deaths because of poorly maintained and under-resourced boats.
Furthermore, the Director now has powers to implement ad hoc closed seasons, rather than needing a specific amendment to The Act. This is a good example of how the new regulations allow adaptive management, where the government can impose or lift restrictions as the status of fisheries resources changes, rather than needing specific amendments each time.
The Act provides new provisions for designating different zones for various types of fishing or other activities, including marine protected areas. While this represents a shift from the current situation of all fishing being allowed everywhere, it isn’t a completely new idea. Probably one of the least known fisheries regulations in the current regulations is the prohibition on spearfishing within 200 yards of the shore around Family Islands (1 mile around New Providence!). While largely unknown, this may be expected to be more fully enforced in the future.
These highlights represent the tip of the iceberg in terms of new reforms, which have been brought about by the hard work of many civil servants, fisheries stakeholders and scientists. The government is to be applauded for finally prioritising this important work.
While such rules are primarily aimed at regulating who can fish and how, but one of the big questions is: will there be any change in what can be fished? Section 35 of the Act prohibits fishing for “unexploited species including ecologically important or rare species”, as determined by the Director. This is potentially a big shift from the current situation where
On the whole the new Act does a good job of balancing the needs of fishers and providing room for expansion of the ‘blue economy’, livelihoods based on marine resources, while bringing The Bahamas into the 21st century with managing our marine resources. It is important to remember that the sea does not hold infinite resources and we have a duty to steward those resources; not only for those alive today but for the next generation as well.
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Afro-descendants in Latin American countries live in starkly unequal conditions that impact health and well-being, PAHO study shows (Inequities for Afro-descendants include higher rates of maternal mortality and lack of access to education, jobs, adequate housing, and basic services such as safe water and sanitation.) A new study of Afro-descendant populations in 18 Latin American countries demonstrates that they live with dramatically unequal social and economic conditions that damage health, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reported in December 2021. The study, “Health of Afro-descendant People in Latin America,” concludes that in more than 80% of the 18 countries analyzed, Afro-descendants live with a broad range of disadvantages related to poverty, employment, maternal and child health, and lack of access to adequate housing and basic services, such as safe water and sanitation. “Let us be frank: health inequities faced by Afro-descendant people occur in a context of discrimination and institutional racism, often exacerbated by gender inequalities,” PAHO Director Carissa F. Etienne said. “They are manifested from the first years of life, and accumulated health risks increase with age, producing significant differences in the levels of mortality and life expectancy. As a result, different factors related to discrimination and stigmatization, along with gender inequalities and social and economic disadvantages, account for the poor health outcomes of Afro-descendant people.” “As we have noted before,” she continued, “the profound inequities in health faced by these communities have been further exposed and exacerbated by the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic in both its direct and indirect effects.” The report, which analyzes data on socio-economic indicators in the 18 countries, emphasizes that limited access to health care for Afro-descendant people also translates into “high maternal mortality rates, early pregnancy, and epidemiological profiles in which sickle cell disease, chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, and HIV prevail.” In Latin America, 134 million people identify themselves as Afro-descendants. The report found that in many countries, disadvantages are stark, for example: In Ecuador, the maternal mortality rate for Afrodescendant women is triple the overall maternal mortality rate. In Colombia, the rate for Afro-descendant women is 1.8 times higher, and in Brazil, it is 36% higher. In Uruguay, the proportion of Afro-descendants with limited access to drinking water (42%) is al-
most double that of non-Afro-descendants (24%). In urban areas in Nicaragua, 81% of Afro-descendants have limited access to water compared to 35% of non-Afro-descendants. “We are living in a context of systemic racism against Afro-descendants,” said Costa Rican First Vice President Espy Campbell Barr during the launch event. “By systemic, I mean that it is enclosed within the political, economic, social, and cultural system and that, as a result, health is incorporated in that reality of racial exclusion of Afro-descendant people and of course indigenous peoples.” La Celia A. Prince, Chief of Staff of the Assistant Secretary General of the OAS, said, “While people in situations of vulnerability such as Afro-descendants still face invisibility and exclusion, while they still live in poverty and are not able to access universal health coverage, the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will remain out of our reach. For this reason, we join the call to action and inclusivity for vulnerable Afro-descendant populations.” The report recommended improving public health policies for Afro-descendants by incorporat-
ing “specific knowledge and ancestral practices of Afro-descendant people, respect for their autonomy, culture and customs, and the creation of participatory scenarios conducive to equal opportunities for all.” “These are urgent issues that cannot be put off if the aim is to ensure equitable and inclusive processes that guarantee the right to health for all Afrodescendant people,” the report said. -------------------The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) works with the countries of the Americas to improve the health and quality of life of its population. Founded in 1902, it is the world’s oldest international public health agency. It serves as the Regional Office of WHO for the Americas and is the specialized health agency of the InterAmerican system.
loc al +p lu s World Expo 2020 - Local Chef Takes Part, PM Davis Joins Bahamas Delegation for National Day Celebration 28 www. EleutheraNews . com
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PM Davis (Center) in Dubai at World Expo. Culinary arts student and aspiring chef, Palmetto Point native, Devante Grant, after budget cuts and several months of delay, finally got to experience his opportunity-of-a-lifetime, having been selected to join a group of Bahamians scheduled to travel to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, to participate in the World Expo 2020, taking place there from October 1st, 2021 until March 31st, 2022. He and the team of chefs traveled to Dubai on January 10th for one week, to return on January 18th, 2022, following the Bahamas National Day Celebration at the World Expo 2020 on Monday, January 17th. Devante, a senior in his program of study with just a few classes to go, before he graduates in the summer of 2022, shared during an interview with The Eleutheran in April 2021, that the World Expo was an amazing opportunity for him to begin to have travel experience in his intended career, and he was also excited about being able to use this Dubai trip as the internship element
of his Associate Degree in Applied Science (Culinary Arts). “I am hoping that this experience jump-starts my dream to start traveling more. That’s something that I’ve always wanted to do, and always is my inspiration, especially in culinary. I want to travel to experience different cultures and countries and what they have to offer first-hand and live it like a local,” said Devante as he chatted with The Eleutheran about his World Expo opportunity. “I also look forward to later bringing those experiences to Eleuthera, because I can see the future Eleuthera has a lot of potential. I hope to be a part of further developing the island’s food culture,” he added. The Participation of The Bahamas in Dubai’s World Expo: In a release by Communications Director Latrae Rahming of the Office of the Prime Minister, he informed that Prime Minister Philip Davis departed for the United Arab Emirates on January 14th to attend World Expo 2020 in Dubai to hold a
series of bilateral trade meetings. His visit, said the director, coincided with the celebration of Bahamas National Day at the Expo on January 17th and was part of the government’s wider strategy to secure trade and investment opportunities for The Bahamas. He continued, “Expo 2020 is a world’s fair featuring 191 nations, each with their own pavilion and National Day, providing an opportunity for each country to showcase their unique qualities to investors and innovators from across the world. Expo 2020 was delayed because of COVID-19 and opened in October 2021. “With a guiding theme of ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’, the Expo champions three sub-themes that tackle key global
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issues facing the world today: Mobility, Opportunity, and Sustainability. For the first time, The Bahamas will be participating in the World Expo, showcasing its rich cultural history, exploring a sustainabilitydriven future, and highlighting its natural wonders. The nation’s pavilion, designed by Bahamian architects and cultural practitioners, is situated in the sustainability district, leaving the country well-positioned to attract viable developments in its blue, green, and orange economies. “While the first floor of the pavilion displays the beauty of Bahamian culture and navigates sustainable futures for the island nation, the second floor’s Embassy for Business is primarily concerned with cultivating opportunities for international investment and partnerships. Hundreds of commercial representatives have already expressed interest in doing business in The Bahamas, a welcome result as the Prime Minister engages in high-level talks with diplomatic officials and investors in the during his visit. In only the first month of World Expo, The Bahamas saw over a quarter of a million visitors to its pavilion, with over 10 million more anticipated to follow over the course of the Expo’s six-month run. “The previous Government agreed to support Bahamian participation at the Expo 2020 in Dubai, including via a public-private partnership with Expo Organizers Janet Johnson, Ambassador Tony Joudi, and Michael Diggiss. In an April 2019 letter expressing the support of the government for Bahamian participation, the Director of Investments of the Bahamas Investment Authority recognized the opportunity to merge trade and investment promotions and to increase foreign direct investment. As part of the FNM government’s support for Bahamian participation in the Expo, former FNM Ministers Ellsworth Johnson, Lanisha Rolle, and Darren Henfield variously made several visits to Dubai, with large delegations in support. “The Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) generously supported the presence of The Bahamas pavilion with $3.5 million. The private sector also offered support, with donations from private donors totaling half a million dollars. “When the Expo opened in October 2021, the Expo organizers approached the new government requesting funds to support both the opening of The Bahamas Pavilion and Bahamas National Day which was scheduled to take place on Monday, January 17th, 2022. Because of the millions invested to date, in order to ensure that The Bahamas’ reputation was protected and promoted, and in order to maintain good relations with the government of the UAE, the Bahamas Cabinet agreed to support the country’s presence at Expo up to a maximum of $1 million. This figure is budgeted to cover expenditure for the duration of World Expo 2020, from October 2021 - March 2022. “This represents a substantial reduction from the $1.7 million approved by the prior FNM government’s Cabinet. Because the government recognized the significance of a number of potential investor relationships, and the potential mutual cooperation between our two countries in relation to climate change and sustainability, Prime Minister Davis accepted an invitation from the Royal Family and the Prime Minister of the UAE to attend Bahamas National Day at Expo in Dubai. PM Davis is especially grateful to the government of the UAE for offering to cover the costs of his delegation. “While visiting Dubai, PM Davis has arranged a number of crucial meetings to secure some key
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L-R Chef Devante Grant, Chef Charissa Sweeting, Chef Marcella Evans, and Chef Mario Adderley. investments and opportunities for The Bahamas. These include meetings with: - Khalid Al Mulla (owner of Sheraton Creek, Ritz Carlton, Crowne Plaza, Ramada and Holiday Inn Express hotels; owner of The American Hospital; owner of Almulla Plaza Shopping & Residential Complex) - Jetex (owner of one of the biggest private aviation companies in the Middle East) - Sheik Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Group - The UAE Minister of The Interior “Negotiations on two ‘Memoranda of Agreements’ will also be conducted. Prime Minister Davis will report on the meetings after he leaves Dubai on Tuesday, January 18th, 2022. In addition to the bilateral and trade meetings, PM Davis will be supporting our cultural delegation, who will be showcasing Bahamian talent on Bahamas National Day, which will enhance our country’s profile while at the same time providing a wonderful opportunity for international exposure for our artists. A Junkanoo Group, The Royal Bahamas Police Force Band, The Bahamas All-Stars Band and Shaback Choir are among the many artists who will be performing. “EXPO 2020 Facts People are asking, “What is the cost of The Bahamas’ participation in Expo 2020?” ● The United Arab Emirates has spent $3.5 million. ● The Bahamian private sector has contributed half a million dollars. ● Cabinet approved up to $1 million to support the pavilion and presence of The Bahamas in Expo 2020. ● The Cabinet of the previous government had approved $1.7 million. “Prime Minister Davis accepted an invitation from the Royal Family and the Prime Minister of the UAE
to attend Bahamas National Day at World Expo in Dubai, and is especially grateful to the government of the UAE for covering the costs of his delegation. “For more information, visit (https://www.expo2020dubai.com/en/understanding-expo/participants/country-pavilions/bahamas) OR (http://www. bahamaspavillion.com/)
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erything. Whether it was a child, adult, male or female, there was something for everyone.” Winners of the online silent auction segment of the event, which had opened a number of days earlier, were revealed on the Saturday afternoon as well, with lucky local bidders able to collect their winnings from the ESCCS information booth located at the holiday expo entrance. The ESCCS booth also served to provide firsthand information about the new cooperative society, shared Mrs. Taylor, “With this event we also hoped it would raise more awareness about the Society within the community - to know that we are here, to know what we are doing. So we also had the ESCCS booth, to provide people who came in today with information as to what we are all about. If they were interested, they also had the opportunity to sign-up and become a member - and we actually had several persons who did do that.” ESCCS Chairman Bekera Taylor with Asst. Chairman Jennifer Hadland.
ESCCS Christmas Fundraiser a Success The Eleuthera Sustainability Council Cooperative Society (ESCCS), one of the island’s newest organizations, which was officially registered as a cooperative in November of 2021, hosted their very first fundraising event on Saturday, December 18th, 2021 at LeoRose in James’ Cistern. The cooperative which aims to work collectively with local communities, organizations and tourism stakeholders throughout Eleuthera to promote the sustainability of Eleuthera as a destination for the benefit of both residents and
tourists visiting the island, set their sights on three focal projects for 2022, said ESCCS Chairman, Mrs. Bekera Taylor - which include: proper street lighting, remediation of problematic dumpsites and reclamation of the Hatchet Bay caves as a maintained heritage site. The first fundraiser, dubbed the ESCCS Holiday Expo - ‘Art On The Beach’, saw local artisans, beginning at noon on that Saturday up until 5pm, showcasing a wide variety of creative gift options, with fine art, local spices and teas, handmade holiday ornaments, baked goodies, glass art, island-inspired candles, crocheted artworks and accessories, fresh produce, preserves, handmade jewelry of local materials and much more. ESCCS organizers also staged an online silent auction with a variety of special items donated specifically for the event - from an authenticated Picasso to Casuarina wood art.
“Today’s event was amazing,” said Chairman Mrs. Taylor as the afternoon of the 18th drew to a close, “First of all, I’m so thankful that it did not rain. We thought it may have with the weather forecast, but it did not. It was a beautiful, beautiful day. We are thankful for that... We also had an amazing turnout, despite so many other things currently happening on the island.”
“It was a great initiative,” summed up Chairman Taylor, “and I think we executed what we set out to do - raise awareness, and raise funds at the same time - as well as spreading holiday cheer!” Sea-inspired crocheted characters as well as clothing accessories were on display.
The literally ‘on the beach’ event, with the calm, warm waters of the Eleuthera Bight lapping just a few feet away from the artisan booths, situated on the soft, sandy shoreline, had something for everyone, said Taylor, “The vendors were able to showcase what they had on offer, and we had a nice variety - a little of ev-
Shorlette Francis-Cartwright showcased her glass and fine art, island-scented candles, and handmade jewelry.
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Local Election Candidates
community service isn’t always easy, but as a country and family islanders we should embrace new ideas, innovative ideas that can take our communities to the next level. Young people can be a part of that and I would like to encourage them and support any individual who wants to selflessly serve their communities and use local government as the vehicle to do so.” The final day for verification of information on the register is January 15th. On January 17th, the register will be publicized. After local government elections, a recount will be held on January 28th. The writs will be returned and the results publicized on January 31st, 2022. The following community members were nominated in The Eleutheras:
The Eleutheran
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Denario Evans
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Isaac Johnson
Rock Sound:
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Edmond Bethel
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Philip Kemp
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Windsor Bethel Jr.
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La Shonda Leary
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Avis Bethel
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Danielle Maynard
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Lazavia Lanesha Johnson
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Shantina Munnings
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Edward Saunders
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Phillippa Strachan
Hatchet Bay: •
Deborah Mitchell
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Carol Pinder
Green Castle:
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Cladwell Farrington
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Kennord Mackey
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Wendy Warren Wicker
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Keishawn Morley
Harbour Island:
Lower Bogue:
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Judith Roker
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Lillian Petty
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Lisa Viola Aranha
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David Armbrister
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Kennedy Scavella
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Nora C. Smith
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Kaaleth Jamaal Brown
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Elvis Bain
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Patricia Bain
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Clemetta Thompson
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Terrance Ashderon Davis
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Junette Deveaux
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Robert Birbb Scavella
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Eldiqua Thompson
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Justine V. Higgs
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Dominic Johnson
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Sheretha Sands
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Magolda Gaby Higgs
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James Munroe
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Marvin Higgs
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Vernon Neilly
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Wanda Christina Higgs
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Andrew Johnson
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Dean Johnson
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Wilfred Kenneth Johnson
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Javon Major
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Wemyss Bight: Gregory Town:
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Henry Delancy
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Larry Minnis
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Teran Mackey
Upper Bogue:
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Shanta Maurice
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Daniel Smith
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Dina Johnson
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Arthur Ernest Sweeting
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Laquisha Taylor-Roberts
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Kelsey Williams
Palmetto Point:
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Whitney Albury
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McGregor James Young
Matthew Dequann Morris
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Gerrard Coakley Jr.
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Donald Fernander
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Amber Sawyer
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Reginald Bodie
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Kevin Cambridge
Deep Creek:
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Vhaul Thompson
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Tyrone Knowles
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Arthur Chatman Lee
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Leviticus Anderson
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Ashley Marvin Percentie
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Stanton Cooper
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Michael Johnson
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Marvin Gibson
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Joseph Roberts-Percentie
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Tavares Knowles
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Rebecca Courtemanche
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Julius Kemp
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Gerald Cartwright
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Jason Newbold
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Joshua Daniels
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John Pinder
Rickey Ricardo Bell
Spanish Wells:
Governor’s Harbour:
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Ernest Alexander Albury
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Carol Davis
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Herbert ‘Herbie’ Albury
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Garnique Thompson
Tarpum Bay:
Waterford:
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Kade Martin Pinder
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Roderick Pinder
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Lawrence Carey
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Travis Butler
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Richard Chuck Pinder
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Andre Butler
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Ronald Carey
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Jackson Jolly
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Robert Roberts
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Roxanne Rolle
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Kenwood Cartwright
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Jino Russell
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Shauna Nairn
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Shakera Gardiner
Bannerman Town:
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Dahlia May Sturrup
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Daniel Gierszewski
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Shawna McCartney
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Torrin Symonette
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Esdale Kemuel Underwood
Savannah Sound: •
Natasha Wallace-Gibson
The Current:
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Mavis Emily Munnings
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Alva Culmer
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Philippa Kelly
Current Island:
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Ryan Culmer
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Denward Rankine
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Cleaomie Rankine
The Bluff:
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William Hilton
*Brokerage
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Emmerson Egbert Hudson
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Shonique Kelly
*Trucking;
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Aldora Fredericka Neely
Aldred Albury
Alicia Munroe
James’ Cistern: •
Aretha Rolle
Elite
Customs Brokers *DHL Courier
Tel: 332-3066
Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera
Philip McPhee
32 www. EleutheraNews . com
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New Year, New Audience As Goombay Kids Wins Asian Film Award And Makes Mark At Other Festivals: Junkanoo episode a hit at KIDS FIRST! Film Festival The show was also a finalist in the St. Petersburg Television and Film Festival for Best TV or Web Series where many founders and members of the jury on the panel work in the leading areas of cinema, TV and Streamers in Russia. The show was the official selection at the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival for Best Episodic in Hawaii. The festival, now in its 30th year is one of the largest children’s content festivals in the USA and it partners with 50 venues worldwide to screen KIDS FIRST! curated content. It is owned by the Coalition for Quality Children’s Media. The London Indie Short Film Festival, being named an official selection at the Multi Dimension Independent Film Festival and a quarter finalist in the Vancouver independent film festival as well as the rounded off the accolades for 2021.
Cast members at the season three premiere of Goombay Kids in The Bahamas. An Asian film festival has awarded the 2022 Best Television Award Bahamas-produced Goombay Kids. The show is making rounds in festivals from Canada to England to Russia and an American film festival reviewer ranked the origin of Junkanoo episode five out of five for highlighting culture. The honors are a first for a Bahamas television production. The groundbreaking educational show was created by Stephanie Nihon who was ecstatic to share the news on New Year’s Day. Nihon, who films the show on location, presented Atlantis, The National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, the Pirate Museum, stunning islands and even Junkanoo to the world. Supervising producer of Goombay Kids is Rowena PoitierSutherland, niece of the late legendary Bahamian-American actor Sir Sidney Poitier. She is also the force behind the leading film and acting school in the Caribbean, Bahamas Artist Movement and the former Executive Director of Ministry of Culture. Serving as senior producer is Leslie Ellis-Tynes known as the star and producer of the hit Bahamian talk show The Stew. “This is truly beyond our wildest expectations,” said Nihon. “We knew we had a hit but it’s just a new level of excitement when international bodies recognize the talent, effort and work we put into it, so much so that they present us with this award. We are absolutely honored and this shows that The Bahamas can create a dynamic product that can be appreciated across the world. It is meaningful to be awarded in India because we actually featured India on the show in Season 2 as well as had Indian Bahamian actors on it.” Goombay Kids was the Award Winner of Best TV Series at the 2 -11- 17 International Film Festival in Tamil Nadu, India.
“The show is great and funny,” said KIDS FIRST! reviewer Tom W. “I like the creativity part of the show where the kids themselves make costumes related to the culture. I also like the historical backstory of the culture and to make it more realistic, it was told by the goddaughter Godfather of Junkanoo, which makes it more appealing. I also like the lighthearted music throughout the background, which makes the movie more enjoyable.” Now in its third season, Goombay Kids airs on OurTV (Ch 212) in The Bahamas and streams on several internet platforms including YouTube. The show has been praised by The Bahamas Film Commission and is gaining interest to be aired in other countries. Among last year’s highlights, Irish newspaper, The Independent featured a spread on Madison Knowles, the Bahamian actress who plays Anne Bonny in the 18th-century pirate’s hometown. The third season was launched with a full red carpet premiere in New Providence where it airs onOurTV Channel on Cable Bahamas. Nihon continues to provide opportunities for creatives, using a local cast and crew including actress Leah Eneas (Beneath The Blue, Miracle at St. Anna), child actor Javien
The stars of Goombay kids hang out on set.
Goombay Kids creator Stephanie Nihon (center) and producers Leslie Ellis Tynes and Rowena Poiter Sutherland. Rankine from Savannah Sound, Central Eleuthera (Netflix’s Mighty Express) and director/filmmaker Lanthro Munroe (Coco Studios, Tyler Perry Studios). Through Goombay Kids these Bahamian actors, comedians, and filmmakers are now positioned to create portfolios which can lead them to more international opportunities and awards. For more information visit www.goombaykids.com Source: By Arthia Nixon, The Ambassador Agency
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More Than 150 Illegal Immigrants Intercepted Near Eleuthera During First Week of 2022 The first week of the New Year was an active one for Immigration officials who intercepted multiple groups of illegal immigrants in different areas throughout the Bahamas - including a group of 66 Haitian nationals interdicted near Anguilla Cay in the southern Bahamas on December 31st, 2021 - the final day of the year. On January 2nd, 2022 a group of 11 Cuban nationals were apprehended in the Berry Islands, and on January 5th, 55 Haitian nationals were intercepted on a vessel in the Exuma Cays. Two days earlier on January 3rd, 51 Haitian nationals were apprehended in Eleuthera. The group of thirty-seven (37) men, ten (10) women, and four (4) minor children, were taken into custody after being found on a vessel in waters near the township of Savannah Sound. The group was held at the Savannah Sound Resource Center where a team from the Ministry of Health and Wellness Unit assessed them, and no major medical issues were reported. They were subsequently transported to New Providence on January 4th for further processing and prosecution in violation of Chapter 191 of the Immigration Act. Later the same week, on Thursday, January 6th, 118 Haitian migrants were apprehended off the
north-east coast of Eleuthera. The group was spotted by officers onboard the Royal Bahamas Defence Force’s vessel HMBS Madeira. They were taken into custody, and subsequently transported to New Providence and turned over to Bahamas Immigration officials for processing. The group consisted of ninetyfive (95) men, twenty-one (21) women, and two (2) minor children. The Department’s records revealed that all of the migrants were without legal immigration status in The Bahamas, and as such, were found to have entered illegally. A Magistrate’s Court appearance was expected for the migrants to be charged with illegal landing. The entire group of migrants were tested for COVID-19 by medical personnel according to the Immigration Department’s safety protocol, and all results were negative. The Department of Immigration thanked concerned members of the public for their continued support. Further information, may be found on the Department’s website at www.immigration.gov.bs. The public may also call anonymously on the hotline 1-242-5020574
Pictured: Illegal immigrants in and near Eleuthera, intercepted during the first week in January 2022.
Minister Says Family Islands Ideal For Cannabis Industry While the government continues to develop legislation to legalize the cannabis industry in The Bahamas, Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs, the Hon. Clay Sweeting, said recently that the Family Islands would be ideal to support the industry. “A lot of the land that we need is in the Family Islands. We don’t have enough agricultural land in New Providence to farm to what the industry can be. I think islands such as Eleuthera, Andros, Abaco and Grand Bahama have a lot of property that can be used to maximize the industry and in turn, create opportunities for other Family Islands,” he said. The Minister added that many Bahamians are already looking for agricultural land to support the Cannabis industry. “This industry can actually touch the lives of Bahamians nationwide. From a year or two ago, when the talk of marijuana came about, individuals started to scope our property themselves. It is not something the ministry was doing in regards to looking at where the property
would be allocated. Our main concern now is that the legislation is done properly to ensure that all Bahamians have the opportunity to get involved and not just a select few,” he said. Recently, it was announced that the draft for the legalization of Cannabis would be completed in the first quarter of the year. Minister Sweeting said this would be a full effort with a number of ministries. “The Cannabis industry is not just Agriculture. It works with the Ministry of Health as well as the Attorney General’s Office. So we do have a skeleton legislation that we are revising. We haven’t put a timeline on it, but we are looking to work on it as quickly as possible,” he said. “My Ministry is working to make sure that it gets done as efficiently as possible. Hopefully, we will see the success story of what the industry can be before five years are complete.” The government also seeks to expunge the records of young people convicted of minor offenses related to the use of Cannabis as part of its five-year legislative agenda.
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Generous Young Donors to the Cancer Society 10 year-old Charity Knowles, a sixth-grader at the Emma E. Cooper Primary School and young founder of ‘Charity’s Dream’, which promotes primary reading, hosted a Reading Book Drive (for levels K3 - Grade 9) with cupcakes on sale at the Market Place in Rock Sound on December 22nd and 30th, 2021. Charity shared that the Cancer Society was chosen as the beneficiary of the proceeds of the cupcake sale because of her grandfather, Mr. Leroy Knowles, who was unfortunately diagnosed with prostate, lung and brain cancer and passed away on August 4th, in 2019. “My wish,” said Charity, “is that all persons are given the opportunity to get adequate treatment, so they may live comfortably until a cure is discovered.” On Saturday, January 15th, 2022, Charity presented president of the Cancer Society of Eleuthera, Mrs. Sherrin Cooper, with $500 from her two-day cupcake sale and book drive. Another creative young student in November 2021, placed special donation bottles in community stores near his home, earmarked for the Cancer Society. Fifth grader, Omari Rolle, also a student at the Emma E. Cooper Primary School, presented the proceeds of his collection efforts - a total of $500 to the Cancer Society of Eleuthera’s treasurer, Ms. Susan Culmer.
Omari Rolle - Emma E Cooper 5th Grader, with Susan Culmer CSE treasurer.
As Charity received books, these girls came looking for books to read.
Charity Knowles - Emma Cooper Primary 6th Grader with CSE president Sherrin Cooper.
Charity’s best friend Shekinah assisting and helping her from start to finish.
PUBLIC NOTICE January Pension Verification Exercise Deferred
The Acting Accountant-General of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas advises that in compliance with the established Government Covid-19 protocols on social distancing, the Pension Verification Exercise January 2022 for all Bahamas Government Pensioners, has been deferred until July 2022. NOTE: ALL PENSIONERS WHO VERIFIED DURING THE JULY 2021 PENSION VERIFICATION EXERCISE WILL CONTINUE TO RECEIVE THEIR MONTHLY PENSION FOR THE PERIOD JANUARY 2022 TO JUNE 2022. Pensioners may contact the Pension Section, Treasury Department, Nassau, at telephone numbers (242) 302-0519, 302-0521, 302-0554, 302-0566 or 302-0539 with any questions or concerns that they may have.
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Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty Announces Top Producers and Listing Agents for 2021
George Damianos, Chief Executive Officer for Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty, and Lana Rademaker, Chief Brokerage Officer, on January 11th, 2022 announced the company’s top producers and listing agents for 2021. Nick Damianos is the company’s overall Top Producer and Listing Agent for 2021. Mark Hussey is Top Producer and Top Listing Agent for the Nassau Sales Team and Bianca Aranha is the Top Producer of Bahamas Sotheby’s International Realty, the newly established Baha Marbased subsidiary of Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty. Awarded Top Producer and Top Listing Agent in Abaco is Christopher Albury. Jonathan Morris earned the title of Top Producer for the Eleuthera Sales Team and Angelika Bacchus is named the Top Listing Agent in the Eleuthera market. In addition to the brokerage’s top producers for each market, they announced their sales agents who received the Circle of Excellence Award. Recognized as the firm’s elite group of top performing sales agents for 2021, the Circle of Excellence Award went to Vanessa Ansell and Christopher Ansell of The Ansell Group, Samira Coleby, Monty Roberts, Craig Pinder and Christina Cunningham. “We attribute the history-making sales activity of 2021 to our outstanding sales team whose expertise and commitment to deliver maximum results to our clients differentiates them as the leaders in the luxury real estate markets throughout the Bahamas,” Rademaker said. Rademaker added that Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty has experienced a 400% increase in sales volume over 2020 and a record-setting value of $1.1 billion in properties listed for sale. Top Producer Nick Damianos emphasizes Sotheby’s International Realty’s global marketing reach and cutting-edge tools as key differentiators which give Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty an advantage over competitors, particularly
when real estate activity reaches neverbefore-seen levels. “Sotheby’s International Realty’s support infrastructure, global referral network and proprietary marketing platforms have been in place for years, which allowed us to seamlessly scale up operations as market activity increased exponentially,” he said. “After a year of stifled travel and activity in 2020, the key challenge in 2021 was to adequately escalate service across our entire archipelago and with the help of an incredible support team, we were able to meet buyer and seller demand on a scale never-before imagined.” “Based on our record-breaking numbers this year, we have a positive outlook for 2022,” Rademaker added. “We have developed a top-tier team of sales, marketing and administrative professionals who are energized and motivated to be exceptional in their field of expertise. With the power and global reach of the Sotheby’s International Realty brand combined with the strength of our team, we anticipate that next year’s activity will remain strong for our brokerage.” Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty has been an industry leader since 1945 specializing in the listing, marketing and sale of luxury and waterfront properties. With eight offices throughout The Bahamas, Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty boasts the most experienced and successful team of real estate professionals, consistently ranking among the top producers in The Bahamas real estate industry. ----
About Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty
Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty has eight offices located throughout the islands of the Bahamas, providing unsurpassed market knowledge of Abaco, Eleuthera, Harbour Island, Exuma, Nassau, Paradise Island, Ocean Club Estates, Lyford Cay, Old Fort Bay, Albany and Private Islands. Head office Windsor
Business Park, Windsor Field Road. For additional information, please contact 242-322-2305 or Info@SIRbahamas.com.
About Sotheby’s International Realty
The Sotheby’s International Realty network currently has approximately 22,700 affiliated independent sales associates located in over 1,000 offices in 72 countries and territories worldwide. Each office is independently owned and operated.
Kiwanis and Windermere Food Vouchers Giveaway and Pantry Restocking During the Month of December, 2021, the Kiwanis Club of South Eleuthera (KCSE) in conjunction with the Windermere Island Foundation presented 100 families in South Eleuthera with $150 grocery vouchers. The initiative was much needed and welcomed, especially during the holiday season. “The Kiwanis Club,” said organizers, “continues to raise funds in partnership with others to bring relief and aid to our community.” Several weeks earlier, on Saturday, November 6th, 2021, the Kiwanis Club of South Eleuthera held a coin and canned goods drive at Sammy’s Place, in Rock Sound, and another drive on Saturday, November 13th at the Market Place, in Rock Sound, with the goal of restocking its ‘Feeding Pantry’. The Feeding Pantry is one of the ongoing initiatives of the Club, where people and families in need are assisted with essential grocery items. The pantry also provides the supplies for the Club’s community feeding program. Grocery boxes are also delivered to people in COVID quarantine, the sick and shut-ins, and the elderly from The Feeding Pantry. The drives, said club leaders, were a success, thanks to the generosity and support of members of the South Eleuthera community. “We were able to restock the Kiwanis Pantry, which is used to help the less fortunate in our community. Thanks to everyone who was able to give... KCSE remains committed to positively impacting our communities.”
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Crime News
Select police reports, shared by the RBPF locally Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs: Police on the Island of Eleuthera have taken into custody a number of persons in separate incidents for possession of dangerous drugs, during the month of December, 2021. Drug Arrest: Reports are that on Saturday 1/1/22 at about 11:40pm Officers came in at Harbour Island Police Station with an adult male suspect and reported that at about 11:30pm they arrested and cautioned the suspect while on Bay Street Harbour Island reference to possession of Dangerous Drugs namely Marijuana suspect appeared to be well with no complaints. He was processed and charged with that offence. Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs : Reports are that At about 10:20am on Friday the 31st December 2021, Officers came in to the Governors Harbour Police Station with an adult male suspect under arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs, suspected Marijuana and reported that he was arrested and cautioned at about 9:15am on the same date while at Queens Highway, in area of the Glass Window Bridge, Gregory Town. The suspect was processed and charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs contrary to section 29(6) and Punishable under section 29(2) B of the Dangerous Drugs Act chapter 228. Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs : Reports are that on Friday the 31st December 2021, sometime around 8:25pm, Officers while in the area of Gregory Town arrested and cautioned an adult male reference to Dangerous Drugs namely marijuana. He was subsequently processed and charged with that offence.
at 9:05pm after Officers while on Queens Highway Green Castle seize out of the suspect’s hand a homemade marijuana Cigarette. When the Officer attempted to arrest the suspect, he resisted violently and ran into nearby bushes. The suspect was seen at his residence at 9:40pm where he was informed of the incident and was arrested him for possession of Dangerous Drugs, Assaulting a Police Officer, Resisting Arrest. He was processed and charged with that offence. Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs ; Reports are that on Friday the 24th December, 2021 at about 7:50pm Officers came into the Governors Harbour Police Station with a male and female under arrest for Possession of Dangerous Drugs, namely Marijuana. They reported arresting and cautioning both suspects at about 7:45pm while in area of Blue Room Restaurant, Pinder’s Lane, Governors Harbour after they observed the pair acting suspicious and a search of their immediate area revealed a silver foil containing a Green grassy substance believed to be Marijuana. Both suspects later processed and charged with that offence. Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs: Reports are that on Friday the 24th December 2021, Officers came in at the Governors Harbour Police Station with an adult male suspect under arrest for Possession of Dangerous Drugs, namely Marijuana and reported that he was arrested and cautioned after a search was conducted and (2) silver foil wrappings were found containing a Green grassy substance suspected to be Marijuana. He was subsequently processed and charged with that offence.
Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs : Reports are that on Friday the 31st December 2021, sometime around 8:25pm, Officers while in the area of Gregory Town arrested and cautioned two adult males reference to Dangerous Drugs namely marijuana. Both suspects were later processed and charged with that offence.
Drug Arrest Report: Reports are that on Thursday 23/12/21 at about 11:10pm Officers came in at Harbour Island Police Station with two adult males and reported that the suspects were arrested and cautioned while on Bay Street Harbour Island reference to possession of dangerous drugs namely Marijuana. Both suspects were processed and charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs.
Arrest ref to Possession of Dangerous Drugs/ Resisting Arrest and Assaulting a Police Officer Reports are that on 30/12/2021 at 9:50pm Officers came in at the R.S.P. Station with an adult male under arrest for Possession of Dangerous Drugs after pursuing investigations initiated on Monday 27th December 2021
ARREST: POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS DRUGS Reports are that on Monday 20th December 2021, at about 9:00pm Officers came in at the North Eleuthera Police Station with two adult males and reported arresting them after conducting a search of 2003 white Honda Fit that both persons occupied and
finding a clear plastic baggy containing a green grassy substance suspected of being Dangerous Drugs namely Marijuana. Both suspects were processed and charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs. Possession of Dangerous Drugs Arrest (Suspected Marijuana) Reports are that on Wednesday 15th December 2021 at 11:05pm, Officers came into Harbour Island Police Station with an adult male under arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs namely suspected marijuana, he was arrested and cautioned at 11:00pm on Barracks Street, Harbour Island. The suspect was later processed and charged. Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs Reports are that on Tuesday 14th December, 2021, sometime around 7:55pm Officers while conducting mobile patrols on Princess Street, Hatchet Bay, observed two males acting in a suspicious manner as they observed the Police vehicle approaching. As a result, the unit stopped the vehicle and informed them that they were suspected of being in possession of Dangerous Drugs and that a search would be conducted of their person reference to same. A search was conducted of their person same ended with negative results. However, a search of the area where the men was seen fidgeting resulted in the discovery of a silver foil wrapping with a quantity of suspected marijuana. As a result, both men were cautioned and arrested reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. Both suspects were processed and charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs. Drug Arrest Report : Reports are that on Monday 13th December, 2021, Crew Officers reported to Harbour Island Police Station that at about 10:35pm today’s date, while in the area of the Vic Hum Nightclub on Munnings and Barrack Street, Harbour Island, they arrested and cautioned two adult males suspects reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs namely Marijuana. Both males were processed and charged with that offence. Drug Arrest Report: Reports are that on Friday 10th December 2021, sometime around 5:48pm, Officers while conducting enquiries in the area of Baby Johnson Lane, situated in Hatchet Bay, stopped and searched a gray Ford Infusion being driven by a male suspect. While searching the front center console the officers discovered a clear plastic baggie, which contained a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was arrested and cautioned reference to possession of dangerous drugs and transported to Hatchet Bay Police Station for processing. He was processed and charged. Drug Arrest Report: Reports are that on Monday 6th December 2021, sometime around 10:40am Officers while on mobile patrol in the Pinder’s lane area observed a group of males walking out of a yard opposite the Blue Room who appeared to be suspicious. A search was conducted of a male clad in a blue shirt and red pants where Officers discovered inside his pants a plastic bag containing a grassy substance of suspected Marijuana. He was arrested and caution, the suspect was then transported to G.H.P.S where he was processed and charged. Drug Arrest Report: Reports are that on Monday 6th December 2021, sometime around 10:45am, Officers while conducting enquiries in the area of the Blue Room Restaurant and Bar, situated on Pinder’s Lane, Governor’s Harbor, observed a dark male walking from a building adjacent to the establishment, who looked in the officer’s direction, and quickly threw a grassy substance from his right hand. As a result, the officers quickly approached the male and retrieved the substance, which was examined and found to be a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was arrested, cautioned, and taken to the Governor’s Harbor Police Station, where he was processed and charged. Drug Arrest Report/Search Warrant Executed: Reports are that on Monday 6th December 2021, sometime around
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Police Contact Numbers
HeadQuarters (GH) 332-3500
Governor’s Harbour 332-2111 OR 332-2117 O/C Governor’s Harbour 332-2723 Gov.Harb. Airport Station 332-2323 Deep Creek Station 334-8207 Tarpum Bay Station 334-4033 Rock Sound Station 334-2244 Rock Sound Sgt. Office 334-2212 Rock Sound Airport Stn 334-2052 L. Bogue Station (Airport) 335-1208 Harbour Island Station 333-2111 O/C Harbour Island 333-2327 Spanish Wells Station 333-4030 Gregory Town Station 335-5322 Hatchet Bay Station 335-0086 2:10pm Officers acting on information received and armed with a search warrant for the premises of an adult male proceeded to the said residence of the suspect located at Savannah Sound, where they executed the said search warrant. On arrival the officers showed the suspect the search warrant which he appeared to have read. A search was then conducted of the premises and while searching on top of a wooden cabinet, situated in the front area of the apartment, the officers discovered a clear glass jar, which contained a clear plastic baggie with a quantity of suspected marijuana. The same was shown to the suspect and he was arrested and cautioned reference to possession of dangerous drugs. All occupants of the residence were arrested and charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs. Drug Arrest Report/Search Warrant Executed: Reports are on Monday 6th December 2021, sometime around 2:45pm, Officers acting on information received and armed with a search warrant for a residence occupied by an adult male suspect, proceeded to the residence. On arrival, the officers executed the search warrant on a white residence, located through an unpaved dirt road at Savannah Sound. The officers showed the suspect the search warrant, which he appeared to have read. A search was then conducted of the premises and while searching inside of a
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‘ ECLAC ‘ Latin America and the Caribbean’s Growth Will Slow to 2.1% in 2022 amid Significant Asymmetries between Developed and Emerging Countries
(In its annual report Preliminary Overview of the Economies 2021, ECLAC emphasizes that 2022 will be a year of major challenges for growth, job creation and tackling the pandemic’s social toll.) The Latin America and Caribbean region will see its pace of growth decelerate in 2022 to 2.1%, after reaching 6.2% on average last year, according to new projections released on January 12th, 2022 by ECLAC. This slowdown takes place in a context of significant asymmetries between developed, emerging and developing countries with regard to the capacity to implement fiscal, social, monetary, and health and vaccination policies for a sustainable recovery from the crisis unleashed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This is according to the annual report by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) entitled Preliminary Overview of the Economies of Latin America and the Caribbean 2021, which was unveiled today during a virtual press conference held from Mexico City by the United Nations organization’s Executive Secretary, Alicia Bárcena. The document indicates that the region is facing a very complex 2022: uncertainty re-
dresser drawer, located inside of a master bedroom, which the suspect stated that he occupied along with his girlfriend, they discovered a back pack, which contained a clear plastic baggie with a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was shown the suspected marijuana and further cautioned reference to the same. The officers also arrested and cautioned an adult female occupant. Both suspects were processed and charged with that offence. Officers of the Eleuthera Division responded to two shop breaking complaints and one House breaking complaint which are under active investigation.
garding the pandemic’s ongoing evolution, a sharp deceleration in growth, continued low investment and productivity and a slow recovery in employment, the persistence of the social effects prompted by the crisis, reduced fiscal space, increased inflationary pressures and financial imbalances. “The expected slowdown in the region in 2022, combined with the problems of low investment and productivity, poverty and inequality, calls for growth and employment creation to be central elements of public policymaking while at the same time addressing inflationary pressures,” Alicia Bárcena stated. According to ECLAC, the 2.1% average growth foreseen for this year reflects great heterogeneity among countries and subregions: the Caribbean will grow 6.1% (excluding Guyana) and Central America will grow 4.5%, while South America will expand by 1.4%. Meanwhile, in 2021, the region experienced higher-than-expected growth, averaging 6.2% due to the low baseline established in 2020, to greater mobility and to a favorable external context. According to the Preliminary Overview 2021, estimates point to advanced economies growing by 4.2% in 2022, being the only ones to resume the growth trajectory foreseen before the pandemic over the course of this year. Emerging economies, meanwhile, are seen growing 5.1% in 2022, but they will only resume the growth trajectory forecast before the pandemic in 2025. In 2021, 11 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean managed to regain the GDP levels seen prior to the crisis. In 2022, another three countries will join them, accounting for a total of 14 countries of the 33 that make up the region. It is of central importance that the combination of monetary and fiscal policies prioritizes growth stimulation as well as inflation containment, ECLAC adds. This entails the need for coordinated fiscal and monetary policies and the use of all available instruments to adequately prioritize the challenges of growth with monetary-financial stability. In terms of the labor market, employment recovered at a slower pace than economic activity last year: 30% of the jobs lost in 2020 had not been recuperated by 2021. Furthermore, the inequality between men and women was accentuated, reflecting the larger care burden on women and less dynamism in the sectors in which female employment is concentrated, such as services. In 2022, ECLAC projects an 11.5% unemployment rate for women – slightly below the 11.8% recorded in 2021, but still well above the 9.5% existing before the pandemic in 2019 – while unemployment among men is forecast at 8.0% this year, nearly identical to that of 2021 (8.1%) and still far above the 6.8% seen in 2019. The report also addresses one of the most worrisome economic issues today at a regional and global
Shop Breaking: nitial reports are that on Tuesday 4th January 2022 at about 8:20am Officers c/o Governor’s Harbour, Police Station received reports of a breaking at the Emily G. Petty School. Officers responded and spoke with the principal who led officers to a classroom and pointed out a north eastern window, that was missing a few louvers. She stated last visited the school on Tuesday 28th December, 2021 at about 10:00am and all appeared fine. Nothing was stolen from that location. The scene was processed and investigations are ongoing. Shop Breaking : Reports are that On Tuesday 4th January 2022 at about
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level: the rise in the price of products and services. In 2021, inflationary pressures were observed in the majority of the region’s countries, led by price increases in food and energy (inflation reached 7.1% on average by November, excluding Argentina, Haiti, Suriname and Venezuela), and these pressures are expected to continue in 2022. Countries’ central banks anticipate that inflation levels will remain above the target range established, although they will tend to converge towards the end of 2022 or early 2023. Once again, the price of energy and food in international markets, along with the evolution of the exchange rate, will be critical to determining future price dynamics. ECLAC underlines that inflation is a multicausal phenomenon, which means that monetary authorities should continue utilizing the full range of instruments (monetary, foreign exchange, and macroprudential) that they have, beyond the interest rate, to confront inflationary pressures without hindering the impetus for recuperating growth and employment and attaining sustainable, inclusive and more equal growth, the document indicates. In addition, the United Nations organization emphasizes that it is crucial to increase tax collection levels and to improve the tax structure to give fiscal sustainability to a growing trajectory of expenditure demands. The challenges foreseen in 2022 – including lower economic growth, the risks of higher interest rates, currency depreciations and the possible weakening of sovereign credit ratings – make fiscal policy management more complex. That is why a strategic vision for public spending is required that would link short-term demands with long-term investments and contribute to closing social gaps. In addition, fiscal space must be expanded by eliminating tax evasion (which amounts to $325 billion U.S. dollars, or 6.1% of regional GDP), consolidating income taxes on individuals and corporations, extending the scope of taxes on assets and property, establishing taxes on the digital economy, environmental levies and others related to public health problems, and progressively revising and updating royalties for the exploitation of non-renewable resources. In another area, financing for development is also key for supporting policy spaces and investment. It is necessary to expand and redistribute liquidity from developed countries to developing countries; strengthen development banks; reform the international debt architecture; provide countries with a set of innovative instruments aimed at increasing debt repayment capacity and avoiding over-indebtedness; and integrate liquidity and debt reduction measures into a resilience strategy geared towards building a better future.
8:40am an adult female contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station and reported that some unknown person/s broke and entered into the Center for Exceptional Learners School, through a window and stole a 40” LG black flat screen television, value unknown. She further reported that she locked and secured the school on December 17th 2021 at 2:00pm and did not give anyone permission to go into the school. Police action requested. Officers responded to the scene which was processed. Investigations are ongoing. House Breaking/Stealing Initial report is that on Wednesday
15th December, 2021, at about 9:45pm, an adult male contacted the Governors Harbor Police Station and reported that sometime between 7:00pm and 9:45pm on 15/12/2021, some unknown person/s entered his room while unattended and stole $905 euros, $150 cash US currency, 2 packs of cigarettes, a black music box, a gray iPhone 10 cellular phone in a green case, along with a phone charger. Officers responded to the scene which was processed. As a result of investigations, three adult males were arrested and charged with House Breaking, Stealing and Receiving.
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BAHAMAS/ILO COOPERATION
tives; the leaders of The Bahamas’ Social Partner Groupings; current and former Members of Parliament; Director of Labour Robert Farquharson and other Senior Government Officials; President of the Bahamas Christian Council (BCC) Bishop Delton Fernander; trade union leaders; and other stakeholders. Prime Minister Davis said that, as an active member of the ILO, The Bahamas had benefited significantly, over the four decades, from adopting various conventions and recommendations of the ILO and enshrining the same into Statute laws. “Based on the four pillars of the Decent Work Agenda – employment creation, rights at work, social protection and social dialogue – the relationship between the Bahamas and the ILO has been concentrated on addressing the country’s labour market vulnerabilities as well as [ensuring] that Decent Work is at the heart of national development in The Bahamas,” he said. Prime Minister Davis also highlighted several noteworthy milestones that had been accomplished through the relationship. He noted that, in 2014, the ILO worked with the delegation on creating a National Tripartite Council Bill 2014 to establish the Body known as the National Tripartite Council (NTC) with its function as a tripartite forum for labour and industrial relations. In 2015, Prime Minister Davis pointed out, the ILO’s Director General Guy Ryder was included in the tripartite delegation that presented before Her Excellency Dame Marguerite Pindling, GCMG on March 2, 2015, for the signing into law of the National Tripartite Council Act, 2014. Also that year, he said, after extensive consultation with the ILO, the NTC made recommendation to the Government of The Bahamas for an increase of the Minimum Wage which was then last increased thirteen years prior in 2002. “In 2016, the NTC collaborated with the ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean to gather information seeking comparative legislation and data on Redundancies, Agency Shop, Incorporation of Terms and Conditions in Collective Bargaining Agreements and the expansion of the jurisdiction of the Industrial Tribunal and recommended
to the Government amendments to both the Industrial Relations Act 1970 and the Employment Act 2001,” Prime Minister Davis said. He noted that, in 2017, based on consultation with the ILO and regional partners, the NTC submitted recommendation for the enactment of National Productivity Legislation and the establishment of a National Productivity Council “On 4th September 2019, in the aftermath of the hurricane, Ms. Claudia Coenjaerts, Director, ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean expressed solidarity with the people of The Bahamas and offered support to the Government of The Bahamas through the ILO’s Development and Investment Branch (DEVINVEST) with its expertise in labour intensive reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads and small infrastructure,” Prime Minister Davis said. He added: “In 2019 The Bahamas has demonstrated its longstanding commitment to protection of children and adolescents in the context of ensuring Decent Work, as one of five (5) Caribbean countries that were among the original signatories to the ILO’s Regional Initiative Latin America and the Caribbean Free of Child Labour. The Bahamas’ pledge at the IV Global Conference on Child Labour (Argentina 2017), established its commitment to have a national CL policy in place by or before the next Global Conference in 2022.” Prime Minister Davis said that, since coming to office, his Administration had made a commitment to provide good governance, established on the principles of Transparency, Integrity & Accountability devoted to ensuring that there is harmony in the Bahamian Labour Market by working with the Social Partners through a system of regular and effective communication. “I am extremely pleased to advise that my government pursuant to the National Tripartism Council Act 2015 has finalized its National Policy on Industrial and Labour Relations,” he said. “This historic policy includes: • The adoption of the Bahamas Decent Work Country Program 2021 – 2026; • The adoption of a National Child Labour Policy
• The Ratification of ILO Convention 159 regarding Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment for Disabled Persons; • Establishment of a National Productivity Council • Enactment of legislation to establish a Livable Wage and a comprehensive review of the Minimum Wage Act and an increase in the National Minimum Wage • Amendment of the law to cause the Industrial Tribunal to enforce its decisions.” Prime Minister Davis said that, in preparation for the development of The Bahamas Second Generation Decent Work Country Program, the Ministry of Labour -- in conjunction with the NTC, and the ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean -- focused on consulting. That consulting included the Social Partners, and other national and regional stakeholders to ensure the widest public consultation on the process to develop the Second Generation DWCP, he noted. “As I execute this historic Memorandum of Understanding with the ILO today, it signifies my Government’s commitment to social dialogue and our steadfast desire to work with our social partners in national development,” he said. “I am confident that over the next five years the ILO and the Bahamian Government will take extraordinary steps to maintain harmony in the industrial relations environment in the Bahamas and work with our Trade Union and Employers Representatives to recover from the challenges associated with hurricane Dorian and the COVID19 pandemic.” “I again express my thanks and appreciation from the Director Zulu and the Team from the ILO’s Caribbean Office for their presence here today and look forward to implementing the various aspects of the Second Generation Bahamas Decent Work Program,” Prime Minister Davis said. -----
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New Year’s
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Eleuthera RBPF Recognize Partners, Educate on Protocols, and Introduce the New Superintendent Officers with the Eleuthera Division of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF), headed up by OIC Chief Superintendent Shanta Knowles, in efforts to continue to build trust and confidence with the community members who they serve and to help to mitigate the further spread of the COVID-19 virus, conducted a walkabout within communities on Harbour Island, on Friday, January 7th, 2022. Accompanied by Mr. Martin Kemp, Clinic Administrator for North Eleuthera, RBPF officers met with both residents and visitors, visiting local resorts and a number of businesses throughout the island. They distributed COVID-19 health protocol flyers, masks, hand soaps and hand sanitizers. The team, said the officers, were encouraged by the response of the community, with many people expressing gratitude for the initiative. A day earlier, on Thursday, January 6th, 2022, Eleuthera Division RBPF officers in Governor’s Harbour, Central Eleuthera called on three of their ‘strategic community partners’, and presented them with certificates of appreciation for their longstanding partnership with the police. The recipients, who included: Reserve Constable 190
Mr. Byron Rolle, Mrs. Susan Hanna of Highway Service Station, and Mr. Bob Colman of Colman Design, were said to have expressed their thanks for the recognition, and their willingness to continue to be of assistance when necessary. Ahead of the Christmas holiday weekend, Superintendent Princess Hepburn-Scavella, who joined the Eleuthera Division of the RBPF team during the final quarter of 2021 was taken on a familiarization tour in the Central Eleuthera area by colleague officer, Inspector Julian Newbold on December 20th and 21st, 2021. She was introduced to the area’s business community including local hoteliers. Both mobile and foot patrols were conducted in the townships of Governor’s Harbour, Palmetto Point and Savannah Sound. Inspector Newbold, noted that a warm welcome was extended by members of the public, who looked forward to working with Superintendent Hepburn-Scavella, especially in the area of community policing and crime prevention.
Harbour Island Walkabout
Local business visited as part of a familiarization tour in Central Eleuthera.
RBPF partner presentation - Susan Hanna with Insp. Newbold and Supt. Hepburn-Scavella.
RBPF partner presentation - Bob Colman with Insp. Newbold and Supt. Hepburn-Scavella.
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Miss Bahamas Universe Chantel O’Brian Returns Home to Jubilant Welcome
Meeting Miss Universe Bahamas at the Fusion Superplex. Miss Bahamas Universe, Chantel O’Brian, was given a jubilant welcome on her return home to The Bahamas on December 15th, 2022, after her historic success in being selected to the Top 10 of the Miss Universe Pageant held on Sunday, December 12th. She was met at the Lynden Pindling International Airport in New Providence by family and government officials, including the Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture the Hon. Mario Bowleg, and Mrs. Ann Marie Davis, of the Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister. A motorcade took Miss Bahamas Universe to the Fusion Superplex where celebrations continued into the afternoon. Congratulatory speeches were given by Her Excellency Leslia Miller-Brice, Ambassador to CARICOM; Minister of State for the Public Service the Hon. Pia Glover-Rolle; and Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Mario Bowleg. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, the Hon. Chester Cooper also announced that Miss O’Brian would receive a position at the Ministry of Tourism. Several organizations presented Miss O’Brian with tokens of appreciation, including renowned Bahamian artist Jamaal Rolle, who presented her with a portrait. Miss O’Brian is the first Bahamian to make it to the Top 16 and to the coveted Top 10 in the Miss Universe Pageant. She was also awarded the Spirit of Carnival Award, an award which is presented to the contestant who represents all the values of fun, friendship, diversity and inclusion. Chantel is the owner of P.S. O’Brian Consulting, a pageant, etiquette, runway coaching, and consultation agency and also the co-founder of the Leading Ladies Project, a program started in 2017 aimed to encourage, motivate, and inspire young girls in inner city communi-
On a welcome home motorcade around Nassau city.
ties to pursue their dreams and aspirations. In the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian, Chantel used her background in pageantry to raise funds as she founded Runway for Relief, a fundraiser fashion show which highlights Bahamian talents in fashion, beauty, art and music. During the pandemic Chantel launched The Final Crown, a faith, beauty, and inspirational platform and in April 2021 she hosted, “Perfection is a Myth” a Virtual Confidence Conference. Chantel fully embraces Youth Development as her platform and is a Certified Youth Leader with the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture. In a special message during the 2021 National Youth Awards held during National Youth Month under the theme, Resilient Youth: Innovative, Creative, Transformative, Chantel O’Brian encouraged young people to remain resilient as they discover that life has various hills and valleys, whether in adapting to a new normal, deciding to become an entrepreneur, obtaining a degree, finding passion in advocacy, taking up a skill, going against the grain regardless of the opinions of others or ultimately choosing not to give up. Miss O’Brian was applauded by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture for the grace that she exuded on the world stage among more than 70 competitors. Her ability to be resilient, to embrace innovation and to cultivate creativity has ultimately led to the transformation in Bahamian pageantry for years to come, said the ministry. Source: BIS (BIS Photos/ Yontalay Bowe)
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ferred to North Eleuthera, and worked there for a number of years and I am now in Harbour Island - and I’ve been there for many years. As an officer, I’ve received all of my promotions right here in Eleuthera, so it has been a very good place for me to work.” Sergeant Nadia Brancaccio, who has been serving in the Spanish Wells community for the past eight years, said that this promotion was a new feeling for her. “I would have gotten my Corporal stripes last year, and I have been with the Force for thirteen years. I was a little disheartened at first, but I realized that everything happens in time. Now in a
fast pace, from Corporal last year to Sergeant this year - with all of the work efforts, I will just continue to push through, keeping in mind that it is the community that you are doing this for, the Force that you are doing this for. Because you have integrity, you want to continuously do your job, even though at times you may not feel appreciated. Things like this make you feel a little better - knowing that your effort and your work, that you’ve put into the community and into the organization is being recognized. So it’s a good feeling.” Two Eleuthera Division officers, Sergeant McNeil Johnson and Inspector
Sgt. Gonzalo Brancaccio
Sgt. Nadia Brancaccio
Cpl. Dianthus Munroe
Cpl. Andrew Demeritte
Supt. Princess Hepburn-Scavella
ASP Kelsey Farquharson
Insp. Alexandria Albury
Insp. Tekenia Taylor-Major
Commander’s Commendation presented to Sergeant McNeil Johnson.
Cpl. Cynario Fowler
Cpl. Renardo Brown
Joseph Oldham, were also recognized for their stellar efforts on the job, and received Commander’s Commendations. The complete list of promoted officers include: Supt. Princess Hepburn-Scavella ASP. Kelsey Farquharson Insp. Tekenia Taylor-Major Insp. Omar Leary Insp. Dale Clarke Insp. Alexandria Albury Commander’s Commendation presented to Inspector Joseph Oldham.
Sgt. Javod Frazer
Sgt. Pamela Russell
Cpl. Gerrard Austin Sgt. 3016 Pamela Russell Sgt. 63 Javod Frazer Sgt. 3132 Chester Walker Sgt. 3341 Nadia Brancaccio Sgt. 3531 Gonzalo Brancaccio Cpl. 1450 Trevano Simms Cpl. 3409 Cynario Fowler Cpl. 3909 Justin Benson Cpl. 3325 Andrew Demeritte Cpl. 3616 Gerrard Austin Cpl. 1311 Renardo Brown Cpl. 3873 Dianthus Munroe
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Young Eleutheran Sailor In 2024 Olympic Bid 18 year-old Joshua Higgins of Harbour has been sailing since he was seven years-old when he started out in the Optimist dinghy, and it was said that he instantly fell in love with the sport. He hails from a family that is well grounded in Bahamian sailing, and a father, Mr. Melvin Higgins of Harbour Island who has been personally immersed in passing on his love of sailing to children within the island community through the Harbour Island Sailing Club. Joshua has competed on both the national and international levels in the optimist class, winning the silver fleet and top ten finishes at the Bahamas Optimist Nationals. He began sailing the Laser class boat in 2018 at fifteen years-old and right away he knew that this was the boat for him. The young sailor connected with Coach Keir Clarke of the Lyford Cay Sailing Club and attended clinics hosted by him. These were instrumental, said Joshua, in assisting him to where he is today. Coach Martin of the Eleuthera Sailing Academy in Savannah Sound has also been a valuable connection during Joshua’s journey, as well as Lori Lowe, president of the Bahamas Sailing Association. After making the leap from Optimist to Laser class, Joshua claimed the Sir Durward Knowles 4.7 Champion title, as well as the National Champion 4.7 title in 2018. He then decided to move up to the Laser Radial class, and took 3rd position in the KPMG Regatta in both 2019 and 2020. In June of 2020 Joshua graduated senior high school at the Harbour Island All Age School as both an honour student and as Head Boy of his graduating class. In 2021 he went on to take 1st position in
Above and left: Joshua Higgins, in action, competing at the ISAF Junior Youth Worlds in Oman in December 2021. the Martin Luther King Regatta at Lyford Cay as well as the Laser Radial KPMG Regatta. He was 3rd at the Laser Radial Bahamas Youth Olympic Regatta and achieved 1st Overall at the Laser Radial Nationals. At the Junior Laser Radial Nationals, he took the Champion title. By being crowned National Junior Champion of the Bahamas, this qualified him to represent the Bahamas at the 2021 ISAF Junior Youth Worlds in Oman, which took place in December 2021 from the 10th to the 18th. In preparation for the international competition in Oman, Joshua attended a high-level sailing camp in Viana, Portugal for two months
in the summer of 2021. During this time he also competed at the US Nationals, the Radial Youth Worlds in Italy and the under 21 Worlds in Poland. Another six weeks of training in Portugal also took place later in 2021, in preparation for the ISAF Youth Worlds in Oman. Final preparations saw Joshua join in with Junior Laser Sailors from around the world in a five-day clinic hosted from December 5th 10th by ‘World Sailing/Emerging Nations Organization’, of which P43 he is a part. At the ISAF Youth Worlds in
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December 2021 he finished 47th amongst more than 300 participants. Joshua, who returned home on December 22nd, acknowledged how blessed he is to have the sponsorship and support of the Friends of Harbour Island Sailing Club as well as the Lyford Cay Foundation for his sailing career. He is now looking forward to moving on to the Laser Standard class as he sails forward towards his dream of representing the Bahamas at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France. Joshua, is very passionate about sailing, and shared that he understands the commitment, dedication and work ethics that he has to have in order to compete at the international level. As he sails towards the Olympics one tack at a time, he expressed his gratitude for having The Harbour Island Sailing Club, his family, and the community of
Harbour Island in full support of his dream. Early in January 2022, Joshua was preparing to travel to New Providence to compete in the Martin Luther King Regatta in Lyford Cay, before beginning international training once again. His already full competition slate in 2022, will take him to the 19th Caribbean Midwinters in late January, Midwinters East Championships in March, then onto the U21 European Championships in April. He is set to compete while in Europe at the Serbian Nationals, as well as the Europa Cup in Montenegro in early May, before returning home for the Bahamas Laser Nationals in late May. Summer 2022 should see Joshua competing in the North American Championships, the U21 World Championships, then the Europa Cup in Austria in September.
Joshua crowned as National Junior Champion in 2021.
Tarpum Bay Primary School Students Successful in Kirtland Warbler Calendar Competition top spot - the Calendar’s Cover - receiving top honours in the Kirtland Warbler Youth Artist Calendar competition. Four other students received honourable mentions for their submissions, including: Tyesha Wilson (grade 3), Aallieah Rolle (grade 5), Ciara Henefield (grade 6), and De’Antae Hepburn (grade 6). Grade three teacher, Mrs. Taylor, commenting on Pelacanos’ win, as well as her other successful students, said that she was very proud them and their accomplishments, which had gained them both national and international recognition.-
Kirtland’s Warbler - 2021, Governor’s Harbour - The Eleutheran..
For a number of years, students at the Tarpum Primary School have taken part in the annual Kirtland Warbler Youth Artist Calendar competition, which is spearheaded in the Bahamas by The Bahamas National Trust. The competition is used by organizers to encourage students and teachers to learn about the Kirtland Warbler bird species, their presence in Eleuthera, and international efforts to conserve their population in recent years. Two Tarpum Bay Primary School students, Savanna Knowles (grade 3) and Bria Allen (grade 5) were successful in having their artistic creations chosen to represent one of the months of the year in the 2021-2022 Calendar. A Grade 3 student, Jon Pelecanos, had his art piece chosen for the
Grade 3 students - Savanna Knowles and Jon Pelecanos with their teacher, Mrs. Taylor.
Jon Pelecanos’ Winning Cover page.
Savanna Knowles’ Drawing.
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Scenes of Christmas Saturday, December 18th, and Monday, December 20th, 2021 held a special treat for children in Central and South Eleuthera, with the Kiwanis Club of South Eleuthera conducting a community Christmas gift and treat giveaway, dubbed - ‘No Child Without Christmas’, assisted by Member of Parliament, the Hon. Clay Sweeting. The event, held as a drive-thru in each township, saw Kiwanis members - some dressed as Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as the Grinch - go from the Longley-Newberry park in Savannah Sound on Saturday morning, beginning at 9am, then continuing north, with stops in Palmetto Point at the high school grounds, the Bay Front park in Governor’s Harbour, the Methodist Habitat in James’ Cistern, and ending up at the community park in Hatchet Bay. On Monday, the Club began the joyous trek in Tarpum Bay park at 8am, then traveled on to the Rock Sound Catholic School grounds, Paw Paw beach at Green Castle, Deep Creek park, the Waterford basketball court, Wemyss Bight park, ending in John Millers and Bannerman Town.
The medical staff at the Lower Bogue Clinic hosted a Christmas Fun Day at the grounds of the clinic on Wednesday, December 15th, 2021, with gifts and treats for the young children in the community that attend the immunization clinic at the public health facility. More than thirty children took part in the festivities, with the chance to sit on Mrs. Claus’s lap while they got their photos taken. The children were given lunch, baggies of treats, as well as gifts. The medical staff also took the opportunity to teach the children in attendance about good touch/bad touch and what to do if someone were to try and abuse them. Organizers gave a special thanks to all the parents who brought their children out to participate in the Fun Day, and to Mrs. Crystal Hudson from Little Scholars, who also brought her students down to take part in the pre-Christmas fun.
Wild Orchids in Rock Sound, South Eleuthera delivered more than sixty toys to boys and girls between the ages of one and twelve years-old just in time for Christmas. Owners, Sybil and Larry Forbes noted that the COVID-19 pandemic felt across the world had also left many families in Rock Sound with Moms and Dads unemployed. They thought it a good idea to spread some Christmas joy by helping out with some of the gift giving, to put smiles on children’s faces on Christmas morning as something they could do to assist in a little way. The couple decided to put out a Christmas box at the restaurant and let their customers know what they wanted to do and to collect donations of gifts. They also reached out to friends and family in New Providence to get involved, and those donated gifts were packaged and placed on the mail boat to Eleuthera. On Christmas Eve, Sybil and Larry drove around their community giving out the bevy of gifts collected. “The gift collection went so well that we decided to make it an annual toy drive to bless the kids of our community,” shared Sybil.
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As COVID-19 cases nearly double in the Americas, health workers must be protected, PAHO says (Vaccination, testing of symptomatic individuals, and ensuring health workers are among first in line for additional vaccine doses are key to safeguard health systems) With COVID-19 infections accelerating in the Americas and the detection of the Omicron variant in at least 42 countries and territories in the region, the Pan American Health Organization Director Carissa F. Etienne has called on countries to ensure health workers have access to protective equipment and additional COVID-19 vaccine doses where available. As cases jump three-fold in some countries, the region’s ability to respond to the current wave depends on the personnel that keep primary health care centers, clinics and hospitals up and running. “We must make sure they are protected from the worst conse-
quences of this virus,” she said in a media briefing on January 12th, 2022. Over the past week, countries in the Americas reported 6.1 million new cases of COVID-19 – a 250% increase from the same period last year. Thanks to increased vaccination in the region, the COVID-19 death rate remains stable but the hike in emergency room visits and hospitalizations has left many health systems struggling to cope. The PAHO Director highlighted that an additional vaccination dose will “help reinforce health workers’ ability to withstand exposure to the virus,” particularly in light of rising infections. While Delta continues to cause new COVID cases in the Americas, Omicron is on track to becoming the dominant strain, spreading more quickly than other detected variants, particularly in enclosed spaces. It has already been reported in 42 countries and territories in the region, and several are now experiencing widespread community transmission.
While reports suggest that it may cause less severe symptoms, Dr Etienne warned that “this new wave of infections won’t be “mild” for our health systems, as the Omicron variant is already challenging our health workforce and limiting care for other diseases.” “In smaller island states, some hospitals were already strained by cases of the Delta variant, and now more hospitals face the prospect of being overwhelmed with cases,” she added. The PAHO Director also highlighted the rise in re-infections. “Omicron infections can be lethal, especially for the immunocompromised and the unvaccinated,” she said, calling on individuals to keep each other safe by following public health measures such as mask wearing and social distancing, getting vaccinated and getting tested when experiencing symptoms. Overall vaccination coverage in Latin America and the Caribbean currently stands at almost 60% and many countries, including Chile, Cuba and Argentina, boast some
of the highest coverage rates in the world. However, it is vital that equitable coverage remains a priority, the Director said. “Whether we are fighting for vaccine equity, supporting our health workers, or doing our part to reduce the risk of transmission, solidarity will pave our way out of the pandemic,” she added. Over the past week, the bulk of new COVID-19 cases have been reported in the US, and cases are increasing in Canada’s eastern provinces. In the Caribbean, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic have experienced hikes in new infections, and increases are also being seen in Jamaica, Aruba, Curacao and Martinique. In Central America, Belize and Panama are reporting the highest incidence of COVID and in South America, increases are particularly pronounced in Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, as well as in Argentina and Paraguay, where new cases have increased by 300%.
Picture this
The Commonwealth of the Bahamas officially welcomed 50 specialty nurses from the Republic of Cuba to aid in the continued fight against the COVID-19 virus. The nurses were greeted by the Minister of Health and Wellness the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville upon their arrival at the Lynden Pindling International Airport on Friday, January 14, 2022. The health care professionals were taken in convoy by buses to SuperClubs Breezes on Cable Beach, where they registered for their accommodations for the duration of their stint. Their arrival comes on the heels of a cooperation agreement for emergency response to COVID-19, which was signed between both governments to augment the Bahamian nursing staff on the frontline of the COVID fight. On January 7th, 2022, Dr. Darville, accompanied by a health delegation consisting of nursing administrators and human resource officers from Ministry of Health, Department of Public Health, Public Hospitals Authority and, the Bahamas Nursing Council arrived at the Unidad Central de Cooperacion Medica (Central Unit of Medical Collaboration) to conduct a vetting process to select Cuban nurses. Subsequently an agreement was signed, which called for, among other things, the nurses to speak the English Language. Out of 300 interviewed, 50 were accepted. In his welcome remarks on January 14th, Dr. Darville noted that like The Bahamas, Cuba is also facing the COVID-19 pandemic and specifically, the Omicron variant. And, that the government was happy the nurses are part of the health care services. “It speaks to diplomatic ties between The Bahamas and Cuba,” the minister said, adding that the nurses will be treated like “family,” and it is expected that patients would be treated as such. Also present among officials were His Excellency Julio César González Marchante, Cuban Ambassador to The Bahamas, and officials of the Ministry of Health and Wellness.The Cuban ambassador pledged that his country was “ready” to continue cooperation and ties between both countries. (BIS Photo/Yontalay Bowe)
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Community Christmas in Gregory Town Christmas season celebrations in the settlement of Gregory Town on Saturday, December 18th, 2021, embodied the spirit of community. Residents were out in numbers along the foreshore and within the open air town square enjoying the wonderful show of Christmas lights, which had been placed for the enjoyment of all throughout the month of December. Seahorses pulling Santa’s sleigh were again a featured light sculpture along the waterfront, and again this year, it was filled with Christmas presents for all the children in the community, who lined up to receive their presents from Santa, following the brief pre-service, filled with traditional carols, a charge by Father John Johnson and other Christmas renditions. Food - free of charge - for all was being dished
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Gift-giving and warm greetings as Gregory Town celebrated Christmas as a community.
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Young and older enjoying the Christmas Carol service at the bayfront. out by busy community volunteers, who worked quickly as they packaged dinners for children and adults with generous dessert portions - as children ran free in the sandy playground within the christmas-treed square. Santa Claus - role-played by local town councilor, Gerald Cartwright, arrived with his helpers at the end of the open-air community Christmas service, in his island-style palm-covered ride - to the delight of the community children, who had awaited his arrival with anticipation, and the gift-giving began. June Robbins, a winter resident with the ‘Gregory Town Ray of Hope’, a group comprised of local residents, winter residents, and local government members, talked about this year’s efforts, saying, “This is now the second year, with last year being the inaugural event. We want every year to be bigger than ever, and brighter and merrier, and full of fun and toys and Santa. So, I think we achieved our goal this year. Local government members started off the celebration - with Dina Thompson our local Chairperson in Gregory Town, and Rebecca, the asst. Chairperson. Children sang carols and then Santa’s highly anticipated arrival began the handing out of the gifts and treats.” June continued, sharing more on the reasons for the coming together of the community group, “Ray of Hope came together to develop causes that enrich the Gregory Town community, making it safer and happier. For the gifts this year, we held a toy drive with Daddy Joe’s restaurant, along with food. So, Tiffany Johnson was instrumental with that. “Winter residents also held toy drives and campaigns to raise money - so that we could buy gifts again this year. So, we have plenty of gifts and treats... Our group actually originally came together in response to the Covid pandemic, with the community so economically affected - and its already challenging to live here with cost of living so high. We wanted to lift the spirits of the community. This is one event, and we also did the fire trailers, and we hope to do many more things with and for the community, so that people are enriched and happy.”
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Luxury Bahamas Real Estate Leader, HG Christie, Reveals Top Producing Agents of 2021 HG Christie Ltd. (HGC), the oldest full-service real estate brokerage in The Bahamas, has announced the recipients of the ‘2021 HG Christie Top Producer Awards’. This is a coveted distinction within the company and recognized by clients as an indicator of the best of the best. An HG Christie ‘Top Producer’ is an agent who has achieved top-earning performance in their region. Yet, the honor denotes not just financial success, but also proficiency, extensive market knowledge and a standard of excellence that goes beyond the expected. The 2021 HG Christie Ltd | Christie’s International Real Estate Top Producing Real Estate Agents for The Bahamas, by region, are: • ABACO – Dwayne Wallas • ELEUTHERA – Anne Bethel • OVERALL – Philip Hillier • RESORT MARKETING – Kristi Hull MOST EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS – Martina Richardt • SPECIAL MENTION – Daren Seymour, Nassau We look forward to supporting our entire HG Christie Team in the attainment of stellar achievements in 2022 and beyond as we celebrate our 100th Anniversary this year! ----
About HG Christie Ltd.
HG Christie Ltd is a full-service real estate company in the Bahamas offering sales, rentals, and appraisals. Founded in 1922 by the legendary Sir
Harold George Christie, HG Christie Ltd is the Exclusive Affiliate of the prestigious Christie’s International Real Estate Network. The company is known as being a trusted authority in The Bahamas Real Estate market and has an incomparable selection of property listings from across the Bahama islands. While HG Christie specializes in high-end offerings such as private islands, luxury estates, second homes, vacation villas, large parcels of development land; they also provide ser-
vices for affordable homes, condos, commercial properties, and vacant land. With offices strategically located throughout the Bahamas inclusive of downtown Nassau, Old Fort Bay and Lyford Cay, New Providence; Freeport, Grand Bahama; Governor’s Harbour and Spanish Wells, Eleuthera; George Town, Exuma; Hamilton’s, Long Island; as well as in Marsh Harbour and Hope Town, Abaco, the HG Christie team of professional estate agents are knowledgeable, well established in their market and ready to support the needs of discerning clientele.
Nevaeh Bedford - Lend a Hand Foundation Eleven (ll) year-old Nevaeh Bedford from Lower Bogue, North Eleuthera - is a bright sixth grader at the Laura L. Anderson Primary School and also the founder of The Nevaeh Bedford Lend-A-Hand Foundation. Young Miss Bedford recently donated two sheets of plywood lumber to the victims of the home fire in The Bluff, to help in the rebuilding of their new home, as well as clothing. She was assisted by Member of Parliament for North Eleuthera, Mr. Sylvanus Petty. Nevaeh said she believes that one of her purposes in life is to help those in need, and smiled, “Everyone deserves to be happy.”
Nevaeh Bedford (in pink), with MP Sylvanus Petty (center) delivering donations to Bluff home fire victims.