The Eleutheran Newspaper February/March 2022 Issue

web: WWW.ELEUTHERANEWS.COM

(1-242) 422 9350

Volume 15, 2/12, February/March Issue

Eleuthera, Harbour Island & Spanish Wells, The Bahamas

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Harbour Island, Spanish Wells & Eleuthera

BACK COVER: Damianos Sotheby’s Int’l P 3: Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty P 5: HG Christie

` and Information. We Deliver!’’ Monthly In Print & Daily Online.

Since 2008 - ‘‘Eleuthera’s most reliable Source of News

Labour: Skills Bank Push Careers fair series launched in eleuthera

Opportunity FREE ‘Learn to Swim’ Program being offered through the Eleuthera Sailing Academy.

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Hatchet Bay Packing House Reopens The minister also announced that a building for a food processing plant and a fish and farm store will be constructed on the grounds of the Packing P4 House.

ADVICE - 13

OPINION - 12

The Airbnb Revolution ADVICE - 14 Exposing the Secret

No Busting of Sanctions

- Page 39-45

- Page 29-

Ask The Doctor - 15 Reverse my Diabetes?

Our People, Life, Moments, Celebrations, Efforts, Strides...

HIGHLIGHTED:

Youthful exuberance, Teacher engagement, student excitement and more all a part of the North Eleuthera High School Literacy week, where new Principal brings it all together in Character Parade and fun competition.

New Curriculum Launched

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Sand Dollar integrated with BACH Page 35

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Packing House reopens in Hatchet Bay Minister says food processing plant to be built and an agri-store established on-site Page. 1

Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs the Hon. Clay Sweeting officially reopened the Hatchet Bay Packing House on Friday morning, February 18th, 2022. Hatchet Bay, said the minister, was the first stop on a country-wide mission to encourage farmers in particular and Bahamians generally to cultivate the habit of helping to grow what we eat.

The Packing House which was closed for several years is now open to accept fruits and vegetables from registered farmers in Eleuthera which will be sold at the Produce Exchange in New Providence. The minister also announced that a building for a food processing plant and a fish

and farm store will be constructed on the grounds of the Packing House in Hatchet Bay. Participating in the ribbon cutting ceremony along with Minister Sweeting was his wife Mrs. Sweeting, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture Mr. Leonardo Lightbourne, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture Mrs. Phedra Rahming-Turnquest, Diana “Lady Di” Thompson, Mrs. Lena Johnson, a retired employee of the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation, Executive Chairman of BAIC Mr. Leroy Major, Executive Chairman of the Bahamas Agriculture Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) Senator Tyrell Young and General Manager of BAIC Mr. Troy Sampson.

During the reopening ceremony, Minister Sweeting commented, “I’m very excited about Hatchet Bay and the reopening of the Packing House after five long years. The importance

Above: The Hon. Clay Sweeting, Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs. of this is not just reopening the Packing House - but this will be an agri-business center where farmers will be able to have access to seeds, fertilizer, animal feed, other equipment that they need to be properly equipped to be successful farmers. That’s what’s most important about today - bringing agriculture back and ensuring that people have support from the government, support from my ministry, and as Member of Parliament

for Central and South Eleuthera I want to ensure that Eleuthera feels the impact.

“This [Hatchet Bay] will run as a pilot project to be the first agri-business center in the country, not just Eleuthera. This is at a central location - where people from both north and south can have access.

The packing houses in the north and south will still stay open and we will continue to

See Packing House

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Palmetto Point: Bahamas Wellness Medical

Center Launches Colonoscopy Services in Eleuthera. Throughout the course of that Sunday, six patients would undergo the life-saving procedures - meant to discover pre-cancerous growths.

In an interview following the first case, Dr. Lightbourne shared, “We just finished the first procedure, and it has truly been successful from the perspective that we have been able to remove four polyps - and it is the polyp that becomes the cancer. So, removing the polyp is removing that risk of cancer.

This is why this is such an important procedure.”

Above: Dr. Arlington Lightbourne (center left) stands with members of his medical services team at the Bahamas Wellness Eleuthera Medical Center.

Dr. Arlington Lightbourne with Bahamas Wellness’ Eleuthera Medical Center in Palmetto Point,

on Sunday morning, February 20th, 2022 oversaw the launch of the first endoscopy and colonoscopy services

He continued, “Prior to now, the only thing we had available to us was doing a blood test in the stool - which is essentially diagnosing cancer, and at that point, usually it is too late. Otherwise you can do a CT colonoscopy or something called a barium enema.

These things can detect some cancers, but again, they are looking for cancer.

“What a colonoscopy does is it actually looks for the pre-cancer. This means you can prevent colon cancer,

and that’s why it is such an important tool. It’s one that you only need every eight to ten years, and yes there is a cost factor, but we have actually negotiated the prices here at the Eleuthera Medical Center to be less than what you would pay in Nassau. So, not only do we save you money in travel costs and accommodations, it is actually cheaper to have it done here at Eleuthera Medical Center. Also, our members take advantage of our ‘Care Now, Pay Later’ program, which means they are only required to come up with 50%60% of the cost, and then we work out a payment plan. So it’s a tremendous opportunity for people to get the care that they need on-island without having to leave and deal with the stresses in Nassau. This is one part of some really exciting developments here.”

Further explaining the new service and its impact, Dr. Lightbourne added,

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Governor’s Harbour Fire Rescue Raising Funds for Local Service A group of people in the Governor’s Harbour community, concerned about timely, life-saving fire rescue services within the immediate area to service both Governor’s Harbour and James’ Cistern, called the Governor’s Harbour Fire Rescue or GHFR, came together early in 2022 to plan and organize fundraising efforts to purchase fire truck equipment, to build a fire station within the township, purchase uniforms, as well as training for volunteer fire fighters and maintenance and upkeep of purchased fire truck/s and the fire station.

The group, led by Chief Fireman and President Ricardo Pinder, Vice President Bob Colman, Secretary Arthur Turnquest and Treasurer Anya Fernander, have made tremendous headway in fundraising efforts, with $77,000 raised to date. Enough, says VP Colman to buy a used fire engine appliance in very good condition. The goal is to raise another $200,000 to build a fire house, and the requisite maintenance and up-

keep. Martin Weber, a winter resident, heads up the fundraising efforts, along with Ricardo Pinder and Bob Colman in support.

Pledge forms have been created to encourage as many members of the community to donate to the service, aimed at protecting everyone. Very generous commitments have been made, and the group expressed their gratitude to every level of donation, which have begun at $5 to $40 and $50 to thousands pledged in support. Every donation, they expressed is appreciated and important, saying, “We wanted participation to be community-wide - to make some small or large contribution, whichever suits their means.”

A cadre of local volunteer fire fighters have already signed on to be of service, and training began in February. Jason Thompson, with the Palmetto Point Fire Service, generously shared their equipment to assist with training for the GHFR volunteers. Fire fighting equipment for eleven fireman has also

Pictured: Volunteers with the new Governor’s Harbour Fire Rescue organization. been donated free-of-charge from the Ottawa Fire Service.

The public can reach out to the GHFR by calling 332-3800 for more

information on how to donate. Donations may be made, and pledge cards are also available at Burrows Liquor Store in Governor’s Harbour.

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Ministry of Education (MOE) celebrates second curriculum launch Entrepreneurship is among the 10 new curricula guides which the Department of Education celebrated during its second curriculum launch on Thursday, March 3rd at the Ivy L. Dumont Building. The other disciplines are: civics, primary mathematics, language arts, primary social studies, primary science, office procedures, carpentry and construction technology, computer studies and biology.

Hon. Glenys Hanna-Martin, Minister of Education and Technical & Vocational Training.

Deputy Director Dr. Marcellus Taylor described the day as a Red Letter Day and underscored that the national curriculum is the second most important policy document in the education system, second only to the Education Act.

Officials at the event included the Hon. Zane Lightbourne, Minister of State; Lorraine Armbrister, Permanent Secretary; Sharon Poitier, Deputy Director of Education; administrators, teachers and senior education officials.

The Hon. Glenys HannaMartin, Minister of Education and Technical & Vocational Training thanked and congratulated education professionals who she said have worked hard and earnestly to reach today’s milestone. She singled out the leadership of Sharon Poitier and her team of officers.

Minister Hanna-Martin urged parents to offer supplementary support to their children by assuring their child’s attendance at school, that assignments are completed, attendance at parent-teacher conferences and PTA meetings, if possible.

“Our government must be prepared to and will prioritize education in the national budget to fuel and facilitate the objectives and more greatly rationalize resources to adP35

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By Sir Ronald Sanders

(The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States. He is also 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) The Caribbean cannot escape the economic and financial consequences of the Russian Federation’s invasion of the sovereign, independent nation of Ukraine.

The effects of these consequences are already being felt in higher oil

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No busting of sanctions against Russia

prices (at the time of writing, on March 3, the global oil benchmark, rose to $113.94 a barrel, the highest since June 2014), and they will intensify if the Russian action continues, forcing the world community to show its displeasure through the many sanctions that have been imposed on Russia, not only by countries but also on bodies responsible for international sport.

Rightly, Caribbean countries have participated fully in expressing their disapproval of Russia’s infringement of the United Nations Charter, the Charter of the Organization of American States and of international law by its unlawful, unjustified, and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.

On February 24, all CARICOM states jointly issued a statement, making it clear that “the hostilities against Ukraine go counter to the principles of respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, non-interference in the internal affairs of another sovereign state and the prohibition on the threat or use of force, and the peaceful resolution of disputes, which are the bedrock of this Community”.

On February 25, all but four CARICOM countries, joined in co-sponsor-

ing an OAS Declaration by more than two-thirds of its member states, led by Antigua and Barbuda and Guatemala, that “strongly condemn(ed) the unlawful, unjustified, and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation and call(ed) for the immediate withdrawal of the military presence and the cessation of any further military actions in that country”.

On that same day, the UN Security Council failed to issue its own condemnatory resolution because Russia, exercised its veto, as one of five permanent members, to stop the resolution. The continued existence of a veto by any one of only 5 countries is a serious anomaly in today’s world. Each of these countries can halt binding UN action against their own violations, crippling the ability to censure them, as is evident from the Russian veto.

After hesitation by some CARICOM countries to participate in the UN General Assembly meeting on Ukraine two days before the invasion, all of them were among the 141 nations at the Special Emergency Session, on March 2, that deplored “in the strongest terms the aggression by the

Russian Federation against Ukraine” and demanded “that Russia “immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders”.

It is, of course, right that CARICOM countries should adopt a strong position on any country that violates international law by invading other nations, and by seeking to alter the settled borders of countries by force.

Within CARICOM, Venezuela threatens Guyana’s territorial integrity and Guatemala threatens Belize’s.

In the case of Guatemala and Belize, they have both agreed to seeking a peaceful settlement through the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and Guatemala has led from the front in condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. However, Venezuela has refused to accept the jurisdiction of the ICJ, and its President is reported to have stated his support for Russia’s unlawful actions against Ukraine.

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The Airbnb Revolution

It’s hard to imagine Airbnb only started in 2007 when two hosts welcomed three guests to their home in San Francisco.

Today, the venture that started with an air mattress for rent has morphed into a company worth $100 billion.

Just think, more than four million people have hosted over one billion guests in almost every country in the world, including the Bahamas. By September, 2021 the Bahamas boasted at least 3,814 active vacation rental listings. If you google “Eleuthera vacation rentals,” about 300 listings pop up on Airbnb.

However, Thomas Sands, CEO of Rock Sound Properties (1976) Limited and president of the Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce, conservatively pegs the total number of vacation properties on Eleuthera, Harbour Island and Spanish Wells at 600, Airbnb being only one booking platform.

We reached out to Sands for his views on the industry and he kindly took the time to respond. “The Vacation Rental concept is a proven model, successful worldwide and growing at a significant rate,” he says. The concept, he adds, is a good fit for Eleuthera, which has seen a shrinkage in hotel room inventory over the years.

Critical

to the

Economy

“Vacation rentals have essentially become a critical component in the diversification and survival of our tourism industry for Eleuthera and other Family Islands” Sands says. “In our environment, most hotels and big developments have failed.”

While some islands may strive for large scale development, Sands notes Eleuthera’s rural setting is a magnet for a growing, well-traveled audience, consistent with global trends. Some visitors like sleek hotels and casinos, but a growing number prefer private indoor and outdoor space with their own cooking and laundry facilities.

Sands says these rental properties

have allowed communities to diversify their local economies. “Spanish Wells today is a prime example of this evolution,” he notes. “Vacation rentals and tourism have become over the past ten years an important hub of that economy when at one point it was only fisheries.”

Defying

the

Pandemic

The short-term vacation industry survived the blows dealt by the pandemic when borders closed and lockdowns sent it into a tailspin. When travel resumed, private homes were seen as a safe and comfortable solution to vacation thirsty people, many of them discovering the joys of rural settings over cities.

There’s no doubt the industry is aiding Eleuthera’s economic recovery.

When borders opened after the lockdown, the short-term vacation industry made a stronger recovery than the hotel sector with many visitors opting for private lodgings.

Domino Effect

As Sands puts it, vacation rental owners are the investors of capital into the economy. They buy homes and build and outfit units. Beyond the purchase prices are the legal fees, real estate commissions, constructions jobs, property insurance and related revenue.

The owner is then vested for the remainder of his ownership of the property, continually paying into the local economy by way of maintenance costs, utilities, annual property taxes and commissions on bookings and so on.

Owners and their guests support local enterprises, such as grocery stores, restaurants, farms and car rental businesses, etc. And buyers and their families tend to become vested in their adopted communities, participating in and contributing to projects and charities, wanting to make a positive impact.

“After COVID, many have said if they are going to be locked down or have

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to isolate they want to do it in Eleuthera.

They just need the internet,” Sands says.

He notes Abaco’s post Dorian recovery efforts wouldn’t be halfway where they are today without second home and vacation homeowners and massive outside help.

Bahamian Participation

While non-Bahamian investment is critical, Sands would like to see additional incentives for Bahamians to help propel them into increased vacation home ownership.

This would include granting Bahamians tax exemptions on property closing costs and on building related materials.

In addition to providing a pathway to investment for more Eleutherans, Sands feels these incentives may encourage even more Bahamians from New Providence to invest here as well.

While large hotels will always be vital to the Bahamian economy, property sales to both Bahamians and non-Bahamians and vacation rentals will continue to have a meaningful and lasting effect on the country, especially in the Family Islands.

By Mike Lightbourn Questions or comments?

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

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Incest: Exposing the Dirty Little Secret dad during his sleepovers. After explaining what they had to do, Jason declined, telling Benjie that his mother told him no one could touch his private parts and he shouldn’t touch theirs. If his mother didn’t have the foresight to speak to her children on such matters, the situation could have ended like Craig’s, a child molested by three of his aunts.

The Dirty Little Secret Teri M. Bethel The emotional pain of being sexually assaulted as an adult is devastating. If unaddressed, both women and men who have been victims of such abuse can remain traumatized for a lifetime.

Females are traditionally more vocal than their male counterparts and are more likely to get help. Although sexual violation of males is a common occurrence, it is not openly spoken of. Many men are unfairly labeled sissies if they talk of demeaning violations, which hinder them from getting the help they need. Incest offenders, whether male or female, should recognize the damage they cause and cease the trauma inflicted upon the people they violate. They should also seek help from a qualified organization or ministry to break their debilitating sickness.

When the molestation began, Craig was six. At his age, he didn’t know that what his aunts were doing to him was wrong; they were older than he was, and he trusted them. When he was told not to tell anyone, he didn’t—it was, as they said, their little secret.

None of the aunts knew what the other was doing to the little boy for four consecutive years. Were the aunts acting out what had been done to them by their family members? By thirteen, Craig was already fully sexually active with girls in his school, teaching them what his aunts taught him. As a result of this premature sexual activity, which resulted in him fathering a child in his youth, Craig’s heart became calloused as he saw women as objects to use for his pleasure. As an adult, Craig acknowledged that he did not know the purpose or the context of sex and women. He realized that he abused them rather than caring for them.

What About The Children?

When a child has been sexually abused, they are often expected to sweep it under the rug—forget it, as though it never even happened. The mindset is that as the physical pain lifts and bruises heal, their memories would also develop a protective scab to conceal their pain. These children stripped of their innocence have a compounded physical and emotional pain of abandonment and guilt to add to the devastation, leaving them physically and emotionally gutted by people they once trusted. Incest is not a problem that is just relegated to impoverished communities; it is also a thriving perversion among the affluent.

When Sonya, a wealthy stay-at-home mom, allowed her eight-year-old son Jason to attend a weekend sleepover with a classmate in a rich gated community, she had no idea what she had subjected her son to. Before bedtime, the little boy Benjie asked Jason if he wanted to play a game he and his dad often played. The child claimed that his friends played with him and his

Mandy was molested repeatedly by her uncle and cousins on her annual summer vacations to the island of her mother’s birth. In later years Mandy found out that her mother was molested in the same way by male relatives, and so were many of her female family members. It was widely done, she claimed in the settlement they lived in. Unable to accept the behavior as normal, Mandy fought the hideous memories in her mind daily. Like many in her family, Mandy’s trauma and fear of men led her to engage in same-sex relations.

After Karla, her sister, and her brother were molested by their father and grandfather, she admitted to recording and selling a video of her having sexual relations with her eight-year-old son. She was charged and spent 20 years in prison in the USA. By the time her son was thirteen, he was brought before the court for molesting other children.

Common Signs Of Incest Here are a few tell-tale signs of sexual

abuse: •

Behavioral changes - a child may become noticeably withdrawn and avoid going home, have nightmares, be nervous and aggressive, dislikes physical contact, and start to wet their beds.

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Avoid the abuser - the child may be fearful or panic around their abuser.

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Sexually inappropriate behavior children who have been abused may behave in sexually inappropriate ways or use sexually explicit language.

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Physical ailments- children may experience soreness in the genital or anal areas, have sexually transmitted diseases, or girls may become pregnant.

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Disinterest in school – children may experience a loss of concentration and a drop in grades.

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Giving clues - children sometimes hint about the abuse, hoping that an adult will bring a solution.

If you have reason to be concerned about a child’s behavior and suspect that something inappropriate is afoot, speak to the Department of Social Services. Children often want to speak up but are sometimes fearful of doing so as in many cases they have been threatened or fear they won’t be taken seriously.

Dangers of Incest According to a 2011 B2B article at a Sexual Abuse Seminar in Freeport, Grand Bahama, Psychologist Dr. Pamela Mills said, “We have more incest cases than you would ever want to know about. We have islands here that were built on incest, and it is very difficult to get persons in the community to come forward and talk about incest.” The danger she mentioned was that only 50% of the babies born from these unions were healthy, with the remaining babies either dying or having severe birth defects.

How To Handle Complaints of Abuse Listen attentively if the child has com-

A bout

the

plained about sexual abuse. Assure them that you will do all you can to protect them and ensure the incident does not reoccur. Do not blame or make accusations against them, hoping they would retract their statement for fear of embarrassing the family.

However, you must ask them to be factual as the matter is serious for them and the accused person. Mothers, in particular, must be objective and put the child’s welfare before her needs if the accused is her husband or lover who may be making financial contributions to the family. Ensuring that the child is never left alone with the accused is crucial. Take the child to an appropriate medical facility for an assessment by a doctor. It is against the law not to report the incident. You can reach out to the Crisis Center for help or the Department of Social Services and the Police Department to investigate the claim. To equip and enhance family life, a growing platform of books, articles, and video resources for restoring and building healthy families can be found on tellisandteri. com.

The Proactive Approach Jason’s mom was proactive in sharing critical information with her children to help them avoid some of these common problems in life. In my recent book, Courage to OvercomeStories to Help Kids Grow Through Childhood Challenges, children learn many lessons to prevent or navigate unnecessary childhood challenges.

The book addresses incest, teen pregnancy, bullying, gang violence, personal hygiene, self-harm (cutting and suicide), and more to help steer kids clear of these obstacles. One way to stop the heartbreak and the constant flow of abuse in our land is to educate our boys and girls at the earliest opportunity. Teach them that they are precious and should be respected, never settle for abuse and if they are inclined to abuse others to seek help.

Formerly enslaved African-American and abolitionist Frederick Douglas said, “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.” It’s time to shine the light in the darkness and wipe out the dirty little secret in our nation, once and for all.

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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Ask the Doctor!

Can I reverse my diabetes and discontinue taking diabetes medications?

High sugar levels result in accumulating products in blood vessels, affecting the heart and brain. This can cause heart attack, stroke, blindness, kidney failure, bowel issues, and accelerated aging.

The most powerful ways to reduce sugar in the body are through proper diet and exercise. It is recommended that you avoid foods high in carbohydrates and exercise for at least 30 minutes, 5 to 7 times per week. These activities can change sugar levels dramatically and lead to the eventual reversal of diabetes and need for medications.

Additionally, avoid stress as much as possible, laugh, play, and have fun. Please consult with your physician before discontinuing any medication.

By Dr. Leonardo Culmer, Bahamas Wellness Eleuthera Medical Center

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Quotables & Notables Corner •

QUOTE: “The invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation and led by its President Vladimir Putin is wrong, unlawful and should end and be reversed. We support the statements of the Secretary General of the United Nations. We have also joined with our CARICOM partners in support of a joint statement on this issue. The Bahamas supports the right of selfdetermination, the inviolability of territory settled within legally defined borders. The seizure of territories based on tendentious interpretations of history should not be the basis for hegemony over other nations and peoples without their consent.” - February 24th, 2022 - (The Hon. Fred Mitchell, MP - Bahamas Minister of Foreign Affairs)

•

NOTE: The Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) advises that it has commenced a phased return to normal hospital services while continuing to ensure the safety of patients and staff in the current COVID-19 environment... The PMH advised that visitation/relaxation of COVID-19 policy was to begin on Monday, February 28th, 2022. - February 25th, 2022 - (Public Health Authority PHA , Communications)

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Department of Labour conducts Careers Fair Series in Eleuthera

Deputy Director of Labour, Mr. Michael Colebrooke.

The Department of Labour in partnership with the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), the LJM Marine Institute and the Bahamas Ministry of Education, launched a series of careers fairs, beginning in Eleuthera on Tuesday morning, February 22nd, 2022 on the grounds of the Preston Albury High School.

Representatives from each of the partnering organizations spoke to students from both Preston Albury High School as well as visiting students from Central Eleuthera High School about the programs and courses they had on offer at the institutions, and how those programs could assist in qualifying them for different professions with globally recognized certifications - with a focus on elements of construction, maritime and other vocational fields.

As the government agency

responsible for supplying work permits to foreign workers, the Department of Labour, represented on the Tuesday by Deputy Director of Labour, Mr. Michael Colebrooke, emphasized their push to encourage young graduates and otherwise unemployed Bahamians to register with them and to take advantage of certification programs - so that positions being filled by foreign workers could be available to qualified Bahamians.

District Superintendent of Education, Mr. Michael Culmer, while addressing the audience of students as the careers fair got underway, said, “We have all heard the adages about opportunity, and the most significant one is, ‘opportunity comes to those who are prepared’. This is your opportunity to be prepared. We have seen during Covid-19 what has happened to employment throughout the world. We’ve

seen the decline of industries and economies. We have also seen the boom for those companies who could diversify and be prepared. Today this careers fair is not about what could be, but about what you choose and make happen... I encourage you to focus on what your strengths and interests are, and what you are willing to do... Do you.”

LJM Maritime Institute, represented by President, Dr. Brendamae Cleare, spoke to the students, opening up the possibilities within the world of the maritime industry, and the kinds of careers possible for young Bahamians and programs offered to prepare them for those fields.

BTVI President, Dr. Robert Robertson also addressed the crowd of students and highlighted some of the current vocational trends, P32

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Children’s Book Addresses Bullying, Teen Pregnancy,

Gang Violence & Other Difficult Issues Affecting Today’s Youth Growing up can be confusing for children if they don’t have the correct information or guidance through uncomfortable and sometimes lifethreatening situations, says Teri M. Bethel, author of Courage to Overcome, Stories to Help Kids Grow Through Childhood Challenges. Published in the Bahamas by InspirePublishing.org, Mrs. Bethel has penned a book of fictional short stories for children to identify and discuss pressing issues that can affect their wellbeing.

These fictional life stories with questions for discussion are designed to act as an advanced strategy to make young people aware of common pitfalls and avoid them. Mrs. Bethel believes that many of the problems children encounter are sometimes indications that they lack information to make wise decisions; this throws them off track.

These problems have a way of testing your strength and courage to succeed in life. Weighing in on the conversation RBDF Ranger Director Lt. Commander Delvonne Duncombe, in his capacity of working with youth of diverse backgrounds, highly recommends the book. He says, “it would be a useful teaching tool to spark intriguing discussions.”

Author and Certified Life Coach Kim L. Sweeting says, “the format and content of the book also make it an excellent resource for teaching and discussion.”

Courage to Overcome shows children that they need not give in to pressure or give up on them-

selves, but with practical guidance and wisdom, they can overcome the obstacles in their way. In this storybook, children learn why being obedient to their parents’ and teachers’ wise advice can save them unnecessary hardship; why joining gangs and living like a thug ends in disaster; why you should not bully, and how to respond when bullied.

In a world rampant with sexual abuse, the book shows children that it is not normal or acceptable for anyone to touch them inappropriately, the dangers of being sexually active as a youth, and how childhood pregnancy brings hardship to children and their families. Kids see why being respected is more important than being popular, how stealing and dishonesty have a short-term gain with longterm pain, and why a good education is vital for future success. Instead of turning to adults for help, many children turn to drugs, alcohol, or self-harm.

Courage to Overcome lets children know that they are valuable, and hurting themselves is never a good option. This comprehensive book also lets youngsters know why personal hygiene is essential, how to take care of their bodies, and more.

Offering her remarks on the book, Ms. Rosalie Fawkes, a former teacher and Executive Director of the Bahamas’ YWCA, noted the need to explore other facets of a child’s development in addition to their educational development. “Healthy eating,

personal hygiene, and bullying are only a few of the many topics that parents, guardians, and teachers will need to discuss with children as they mature into adulthood,” she said. Author and life development specialist at PurposeUnleashed.com Conrad L. Jones added that “the common-sense approach to this subject helps children connect in a fun but powerful fashion with the basics of knowing how to navigate life.” Calling it a valuable and engaging tool, Jones says the easy read is “a simple life instruction manual.”

“These are not topics many adults feel comfortable addressing, but it is a great tool to give children to deter them from future slip-ups,” Mrs. Bethel said. “These problems are still too high on our country’s radar,” Mrs. Bethel suggested. “Too many of our children are silently suffering, and they don’t know who to talk to or where to turn for help,” she added. Despite this, Mrs. Bethel believes that all is not lost, and books such as this and the ongoing programs in the country geared to put challenged youth back on track are essential.

Courage to Overcome is available in Nassau at Logos Bookstore, Eleuthera at Office General, North Eleuthera Craft & Snack Place, and Amazon.com in paperback and eBook formats.

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Reflections: A 4,000 Mile Educational Journey (By Austin Mullin In His Own Words)

It all began in 1997, at the kitchen table in Gortahork, County Donegal, Ireland with two Irishmen having a cup of tea, in true Irish fashion. One of these men was Dermot Toland, a master wood turner and a fine musician of Irish traditional music, the other, one Austin Mullin aged 24, a recent graduate two years prior from the University of Limerick having studied woodwork and technical drawing education. I, Austin had been teaching in an adult education centre (for the two years since graduating), where young and old unemployed persons were given the opportunity to learn fine furniture techniques by external craftsmen and myself. As a result of this I had met Dermot who taught woodturning to the classes there and from this I was receiving lessons from him to upgrade my woodturning skills. Lessons over a cup of tea was the order of the day.

Young Mullin family.

Back to the conversation at the kitchen table, the program that Dermot and I taught at was closing down due to Governmental cut backs and I was telling Dermot that I had felt the urge to try and teach abroad (for the first and only time in my life) and it was at that moment that Dermot looked down at the English Sunday Times newspaper laying half-read on the table. As the good Lord would have it, it was opened at a page that showed an ad for various teaching jobs in the Bahamas, which included teaching woodwork. Jokingly Dermot suggested that I give it a try. At that moment in my life the scenario was set up so, that I was willing to take a chance on applying for this job, in a country some 4,000 miles from my home. I had to look up an atlas to locate The Bahamas, due to my poor geography skills.

I put together my resume and had to book a flight to London for the interviewing process at the Bahamian Consulate there. When I had gotten to the Consulate and finally got my turn to be interviewed, I recall being shown into a room with a large table and there were three extremely official Ministry Officers there from the Department of Education, the one who was conducting the bulk of the meeting was one Mrs. Iris Pinder.

I must say, as only my second interview, I was quite intimidated. They reviewed my resume and only being 24 years old and not having any real experience in a high school teach-

ing, they decided to offer me a oneyear probationary contract instead of the normal three years, to see how things would go. I assured them that I would endeavor to show them that they would not regret it.

It was mid-August, 1997 when I hopped on a British Airways flight to Nassau from London, full of excitement, nerves and fear of the unknown to begin the single year contract. We had our orientation in Nassau and had to get our NIB cards and other matters straight. We were put up in the old British Colonial hotel. I remember being out on the beautiful beach there, after a day dealing with NIB thinking this has got to be the most beautiful water colour my blue Irish eyes had ever seen. A few days later I flew out on a small plane to Eleuthera, to my posting at Harbour Island All Age School.

Once I had reached Harbour Island on the water taxi, I was greeted by the one and only Mr. Kirkwood Cleare, my new Principal. He showed me to my accommodation on the top level of one of Barretta Major’s town houses. It was a beautiful twobedroom apartment within a 2-minute walk from the world-famous Pink Sand beach. I could not get over how beautiful the Island was and how friendly the locals were, very much like my fellow Irish. It was then that I met Mr. Geoffery Johnson, a seasoned art teacher from the Isle of Wight who was just hired in London also, who lived in the apartment below me. We immediately became close friends in an unfamiliar but beautiful tropical island, far removed from the wet and damp British weather we grew up with. Over the next three days we met Mr. Malcolm Thorman and his wife Charlotte. Malcolm was hired to teach auto mechanics at the same school Geoff and I were to work in. We all became very close quite quickly even though we had never met before. We were all on this exciting educational journey together. To be honest had it not been for their companionship for that first year I may have allowed homesickness to get the better of me.

The first few days at work were quite interesting as I had to quickly give up my Irish morning greetings of ‘How’s it going?’, or ‘How’ya’ for the much more formal ‘Good morning’ etc. It was during that first week of school when I recall meeting my now wife, Ms. Gail Davis. I observed her in her typing room crying quietly as she had just received the

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very sad news that her dear aunt Joan had died in Nassau. I recall trying to comfort her along with Malcolm, the auto mechanic teacher.

Who could have imagined that from there we would become married and have three wonderful children - Erin our daughter, and Colby and Chandler our twin boys.

Back to the educational journey, once in my room I could see that there was some shortage of tools and I had decided that within the first few months that I could take advantage of the large number of tourists that beautiful Harbour Island attracts each year, by selling student made wood-burnt and scroll sawn craft work to them by way of raising funds. I always made sure that the students carried home the bulk of their work to their homes. I was a firm believer and still am that once you have a passion for your subject and your students that it is always possible to solve the materialistic needs of a classroom. I was also guided by Mr. Thorman and Mr. Johnson as they also were raising funds for their own departments. Mr. Cleare, our principal appreciated the initiative that we brought to our subjects and actively encouraged our endeavours. When some of the winter residents saw our efforts, they also helped us out with monetary donations, including, Mrs. Bonnie Hudson, Mr. Don Soffer, and Mr. John Pratt to name but a few. It was during this time that I fell out of love with the Carpentry and Technical Drawing subjects and discovered that the Art and Design curriculum had a Craft option and it was possible to teach in any medium that the teacher chose. It took a little convincing but I finally got approval from the Ministry of Education to change over to the Craft Department.

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Once I had moved Departments, I had to grow the mediums that I taught, so I began experimenting further with wood burning, scroll sawing, and tile mosaics at the BJC Craft level. It took a few years but we finally were getting a few A grades and mostly B grades in the BJC Craft exam. In 2009, I finally had built up enough courage to enter my first BGCSE students with one of them receiving an A grade and the remaining ones B grades. It was a very proud moment for me. There were an awful lot of evening classes involved and I recall going around in my golf cart picking up Shaena, Javonna, Elkeno, Mauris, Rodney and Valdez, making sure to remove any excuses for them not to show up to class.

Sadly, at this time the BUT (Bahamas Union of Teachers) and the MOE (Ministry of Education) made an agreement to stop paying the rental allowance to teachers once they had been 5 years or more teaching in a district and having spent 12 years at Harbour Island All Age School, I was one of the teachers affected. Gail, my now Briland wife and I decided that we would request a transfer to Spanish Wells as the dream of home ownership would never be realized on beautiful Harbour Island on teacher’s salaries, but might be possible on Spanish Wells. Also having a young daughter in Grade 4 and twin boys about to go into grade 1, the small class size that existed in Spanish Wells All Age School at the time would be very beneficial for us all. So we gathered up all our earthly belongings and moved to Spanish Wells in summer of 2009. When I began in Spanish Wells I had to begin with no classroom, and no resources. Luckily for me, Spanish Wells All Age School had decided in 2009 to become involved in Junior Junkanoo on the Island of Eleuthera. This allowed me to learn the Crepe paper twisting technique and I was able to pour myself into Junior Junkanoo while the Ministry worked on securing a rental space to serve as my classroom. My wife and I were also able at this time to purchase a home for our family of 5 on beautiful Russell Island.

In 2010 the MOE had managed to secure a rental space to serve as my classroom in one half of the old RBC location in Spanish Wells, directly opposite the school. It was then that I began in earnest to find ways to equip my program from scratch. I had been allowed to apply to Cable Bahamas Cares for some funding by my then Principal Mrs. Daisry Higgs. These funds allowed me to purchase 10 scroll saws and then I also received some funding from Mr. Alvin Smith the local MP at the time from his constituency funds. These two donations were the seeds that allowed me to begin to grow my program.

After just two years of instruction in

Austin Mullin with young sons.

Craft classes, the graduating class of 2012 received 8 A’s and 2 B’s in the BGCSE craft exam, with Sierra Pinder and Kayston Pinder receiving the best overall in the BGCSE Craft subject in the country. In the years that followed this feat was repeated by Elsie Joseph in 2014, Carson Pinder in 2017, Jada Albury in 2019 and most recently Colby Mullin in 2021 all getting the best overall in BGCSE in the Craft subject in the entire country in their respective years.

In the meantime, retired educator, Mrs. Lydia Burrows allowed me to sell a few of the students’ Craft work in her little Café over on Russell Island to allow me to showcase the students work and generate some much needed funding.

Unfortunately they closed the café after a while, but it planted an idea in my head. So, in 2018 with permission from my then Principal Mrs. Chardel Gibson I began the mission to raise funds for our own gallery to be built by the Craft classroom. It was to also include an area for sanding so the Craft students would not have to sand their wooden projects in the direct sun. With generous donations from local businesses and the assistance of a few of the parents, the gallery “Wood “N” Stuff” was established around November 2018. The gallery serves two functions. It allows the students Craft work to be showcased and admired by locals and tourists alike and also allows Craft pieces to be sold to be used to help partially finance the needs of the program. The students take home 2/3 of all work done in the program to their parents/ grandparents or guardians with 1/3 being displayed in the gallery. One of the wonderful things about the gallery is that when someone buys a student’s work the student P20 truly values the fact that

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Reflections - Austin Mullin

Recent Mullin Family photo. someone sees the quality of their pieces and it encourages them to persevere to do even better. A simple example of this was a lady from South Carolina who recently bought a wood burnt framed turtle made by a student named Shekira Lubin in grade 11. The lady took our business card and when she returned home she emailed a photo to me of where she hung the Turtle project with the comment that every time she looks at it, it reminds her of her wonderful trip to Spanish Wells. As I have the Craft classes in WhatsApp group chats since the virtual term, I posted the lady’s photo that she sent along with the comment and it truly made that young student’s day as well as inspires the others to strive for excellence in their Craft work. I tell the students that I will always pick their best piece out of every three so as to push them to do each piece to their full potential. If

the pieces are of similar high quality, I allow them to choose. This one simple act pushes them to do better.

The students are also offered evening classes if they choose, to further improve their Craft skills. I have allowed a few Crafters friends and a local author to display some of their work at a humble 20% commission back to the Craft program. Another recent development is allowing students, ex-students and myself to sell craft work at a 10% commission to the program. I believe it will encourage them to continue to make pieces after they move into adult life, but most of them prefer to keep their pieces at home. I always tell them that when they make their work to do their best and to imagine in 30 -40 years’ time that they can show them to their grandkids with pride. As time moves on the sentimental value of these Craft pieces will increase. All of these measures

ensure that the students constantly strive to do their best.

I have increased the mediums in the Craft program to include wood burning, stained glass effect wood burning, scroll saw segmentation, scroll saw fretwork, scroll sawn metal, scroll sawn copper, tile mosaic, crepe paper twisting, and shell craft. All of the frames are made in the program with finishes such as driftwood, burned by propane torch, painted with acrylic, painted with acrylic with a sea sponge to give a granite effect, light paint pickled look, as well as plain wooden frames. Most projects receive three sprayed coats of high-quality waterbased varnish to give an excellent finishing touch. I have loved trying out new mediums and allowing myself and my students to experiment with these new ideas. The virtual term was hard on the Craft program as wood burning from home was the only feasible medium to teach virtually out of the ones we do, but I am thankful to be finally back face to face. With such small relative class sizes we can get the 3 ft apart required between each student as suggested by WHO health standards.

We also take part in the “Cans for Kids” Program where we recycle aluminium cans and send them to Nassau to be forwarded to Florida for recycling. This generates a small financial boost to the Craft program, with the students actively taking part in a recycling program.

On a more personal note, I have recently taken part in a small artisan market before Christmas by one of the local restaurants and it made me realize the number of local crafters there are on island as well as on neighbouring Eleuthera. This has prompted me and a fellow Artisan Mr. Delroy Sweeting to organize a bi-monthly farmers/artisans market.

Initially we had decided that 10% of the sales would go to the Craft program as a fund raiser, but we have recently raised $1,000 to go towards the rebuild program of a local couple and their children whose home was partially destroyed by fire. We will endeavor to continue to support the Craft program but also other community initiatives with the 10% from our bi-monthly Saturday sales.

For example, we have decided to donate to a church youth program for our next farmers/artisans market.

I love the feedback from the local vendors. They are excited and so appreciative of the opportunity that the newly set up bi-monthly market

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allows them. I would like to thank Mr. Delroy Sweeting for being our treasurer and my right hand man in this endeavour. It is great when people work together to create something that everyone benefits from. In our last market some 18 vendors took part, growing from 13 from our first sale. There were all sorts of custom-made jewelry, seaglass art, locally made pepper sauces, jellies, honey, photos, school-made crafts, locally made candles, casuarina cutting boards, fresh twists, other fresh food items, locally made ice cream popsicles, fresh Johnny cake and fresh fruits and vegetables from farmer Keith Kelly from the Bluff. It was so exciting to share these and many more delights with our locals and tourists alike. A great day was had by all involved. I look forward to continue to work with Delroy and these artisans and farmers to take our market to the next level.

My future plans with Ministry of Education approval include expanding the gallery into the aforementioned sanding area as it has become a mosquito retreat and no longer feasible for the students to work in there. This will allow me to let more of my fellow local artisans display their creations and build the community (tourists and locals) awareness of the hidden talent that exists in Spanish Wells and the northern end of Eleuthera. It is planned with this expansion to allow 4 to 6 of these artists to have their own area within the gallery and in turn they will volunteer to man it one day a week each. This will allow my Craft students to be exposed to the work done locally by other artists also. This will give me the freedom to continue to expand the medium offerings in my craft program.

Here’s a brief update on my family. My wonderful wife Gail is the keyboarding/office procedures and computer teacher at the great Samuel Guy Pinder All Age school (renamed) in Spanish Wells. My daughter Erin has received her Bachelor’s degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management and has begun her new job in the dock Masters office at the new marina Briland Club in Harbour Island. Our twins boys have recently graduated Co-valedictorians from our school with a combined grade 11 and 12 BGCSE’s of Colby 11A’s and Chandler 10A’s and one B. Colby just received the best BGCSE’s in a government High school for the entire Bahamas, with ChanP21 dler just missing out in sharing it with him

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with his single B grade in Spanish BGCSE. They are both now attending the Florida Polytechnic University with Colby pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering and Chandler doing a degree in Computer Science with the assistance of a scholarship from the PSSP (Public School Scholarship Program) government program.

I want to give full credit to my wonderful wife Gail and my children for these great academic achievements.

I know to some this article may seem braggadocious, but that is not its intent, I just mean to highlight how with passion, out of the box thinking and hard work from students and teachers alike, anything can be achieved. It is unrealistic to expect the Ministry of Education to be able to supply all equipment and resources needed to run school programs. If the passion exists, and the sweat equity is there any obstacle can be overcome. I tell all my students that one of the heaviest burdens to carry in life is regrets about what you shoulda, woulda, coulda done or worse still, blaming everything under the sun for your poor decision making in your young or old life!

In closing, I truly want to thank and appreciate Mrs. Iris Pinder taking a chance on an inexperienced 24 year old Irish teacher all the way back in 1997. That one opportunity allowed me to find my beautiful wife Gail, have my three wonderful children and begin a new life for myself in this wonderful country. I want to express my appreciation to the great and friendly people of Harbour Island and Spanish Wells for accepting me into their communities so openly. I want to also publically thank my past and present principals and District Education Officers for their trust and support for allowing me the flexibility to grow the Craft program and Gallery to its current state and I hope I can look forward to their continued trust and support in the future. I truly love the Bahamas and its warm people. It is just like Ireland but quite a bit sunnier!! I am looking forward to moving the craft/artisan programs forward to newer and greater heights where we can all succeed together and continue to be a support group and an asset to one another. May God continue to Bless the Bahamas.

Above and Below: Art Gallery and Classroom, and showcased Craft samples.

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Appreciate this: CEHS 2021-2022 Prefects

During an awards and prefect installation ceremony hosted at Central Eleuthera High School on Friday, February 18th, student leaders tasked with being positive examples to their peers and making meaningful contributions to students’ campus life were announced. Grade 12 student leaders included: • Torii Knowles (Head Boy),

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Wallace Sineus,

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Ricardo Belle,

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Samuel Hanna,

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Wayne Weinberger,

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Zion Bain,

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Vonzell Fox (Head Girl),

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Jahzara Taylor,

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Savannah Munroe,

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Valiyah Fernander,

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Toccara Sands, and

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Rolaysia Maycock.

•

Student leaders from the 11th grade were, Faron Carey, Omarion Dean, Sean Minns, Salathiel Lewis, Alexandria Culmer, Asia Jonassaint, Corshera Johnson, Carleah Culmer, Tianna Rose and Waldina Alcime.

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Bahamas Welcomes First International US TSA PreCheck at LPIA the pent-up demand for our destination, but more so, speak clearly about the strength of The United States as our key source market partner, during this most critical period in our economic rebound and recovery.”

Moreover, he mentioned that the country’s post-COVID-19 pandemic stopover arrivals outlook remains optimistic not only for Nassau/New Providence but for the Islands which comprise diverse cultures. He assured that the government, through the tourism ministry remains committed to delivering safe, efficient and memorable experiences for visitors from arrival to departure.

“That is why this initiative is so

The Hon. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, right; and Chargé d’Affaires Usha Pitts, United States Embassy, Nassau, left, at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the opening of a US Department of Homeland Security TSA PreCheck held at the Lynden Pindling International Airport, held Thursday, February 24, 2022. (BIS Photos/Kemuel Stubbs) The Bahamas became the first international destination outside the United States to have a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) PreCheck at its main airport on Thursday, February 24, 2022 during a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the opening of the TSA PreCheck lane at the Lynden Pindling International Airport.

Among the dignitaries and invited guests were the Hon. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, Chargé d’Affaires Usha Pitts, United States Embassy, Nassau; and TSA Regional Director Karen Hanlon.

The deputy prime minister in his remarks deemed it a “Red Letter Day” for relations between both countries.

“This is a big deal for our country and our friendship and partnership with the USA. This is the first of its kind anywhere outside of the USA. We can now boast of sun, sand, sea, warmth of our people and TSA PreCheck.”

The idea of the expedited screening programme was conceptualized through a 90-day pilot project from August 2, 2021 to November 4, 2021. The US Department of Homeland Security through its agency, The Transport Security Administration (TSA), in collaboration with the Government of The Bahamas initiated the programme for the establishment of a TSA PreCheck at the LPIA. TSA PreCheck was established through the 2013 Memorandum of Cooperation be-

tween the Government of the United States of America and The Commonwealth of The Bahamas on matters relative to Civil Aviation Security.

The TSA PreCheck is touted as “a Trusted Traveler Programme” that allows members of select frequent flyer programmes, members of Global Entry, Nexus, Sentri and US Military, and cadets to receive accelerated and more seamless security screening for domestic and international flights.

And, following the success of the pilot programme, the United States Department of Homeland Security through its TSA agency and the government ofThe Bahamas agreed to fully incorporate this programme at LPIA on a permanent basis.

“This considerable milestone speaks positively to the benefits of two countries working together to reinforce and prioritize matters of mutual global aviation security, safety and travelers’ efficiencies,” the deputy prime minister said.

He added, “We recognize that both our countries enjoy a long-standing relationship in reciprocity that sees mutual commercial, national security and economic benefits, due to our proximity and the fact that we share a border.”

The deputy prime minister also noted that the growth in tourism numbers, reflect a 94 percent of stopover visitors in 2021 originated from the United States.

“These numbers do not only speak to

important, and we are most confident, that this Trusted Traveler Programme, currently available at more than 200 airports across the United States, will continue to improve operational efficiency and create a safer and more enhanced passenger experience,” the deputy prime minister said.

This also provides the LPIA with “an even greater competitive advantage, especially when coupled with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Preclearance facility,” said Vernice Walkine, President & CEO, Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD).

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CONS E R VATION CORNE R

Feb/March, 2022

Op-Ed: Underwater ‘pandemic’ an urgent threat to our way of life

By JOSEPH DARVILLE President, Waterkeepers Bahamas

(A fast-moving coral killer is sweeping through the Bahamas, decimating reefs and destroying fish habitats at an alarming rate, threatening our vital fishing, diving and tourism industries) Right now, today, the Bahamas is facing one of the most urgent and deadly threat to our reefs, our fisheries and ultimately, our entire way of life, that I have witnessed in more than half a century on the front line of environmental advocacy.

A deadly, fast-moving infectious disease is ravishing huge areas of our precious coral reefs, the cradle of undersea life and critical habitat for our abundant marine resources. It is impossible to exaggerate the threat we now face from what has become known as ‘coral COVID’. This silent invader is contagious as the Corona Virus and as deadly as Ebola for corals. Once a coral becomes infected, it will most likely be dead in a matter of months or even weeks.

I personally witnessed this horrifying scourge in action during a recent diving trip in Grand Bahama. What I saw can only be described as an underwater massacre. I have never seen anything like it – huge swaths of formerly vibrant reef, once bursting with color and life, have become a barren, lifeless desert. A cold, gray, underwater graveyard.

Stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) was first discovered in the fall of 2014 in corals off Miami. The disease is likely spread by a bacteria, a virus or some combination of the two, but scientists are still working to identify the culprit. What they do know is that it has already expanded throughout Florida’s coast and much of the northern Caribbean. It spreads rapidly

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and is now present in at least 20 countries, from Mexico to Honduras to St. Lucia.

SCTLD first struck Grand Bahama at the end of 2019, and within five months, had already spread to New Providence. It has now infiltrated reef systems in the Berry Islands, Eleuthera, San Salvador, Long Island, and maybe more.

The rate of spread is simply astonishing: it can move around half an American football field a day across a reef system, or about a mile a month.

That’s about the distance from Baha Mar to downtown Nassau in just three months. Within a year of being spotted on a few corals in New Providence in 2019, it had spread to almost all reef areas around the island.

Corals are colonial animals, meaning that one coral head can be composed by hundreds or thousands of individual beings. Their growth is similar to a plant, where you can remove a small piece and grow another coral elsewhere. So usually when parts of coral colony start to die, for whatever reason, if an intervention is possible and succeeds, the surviving coral can keep on growing and sometimes, living tissue can even grow over the dead areas, fully or almost fully restoring the reef.

However, if the whole reef dies, it will remain dead forever. Left untreated, studies have shown that in coral colonies infected with SCTLD, less than 2% avoid utter destruction.

The predictions for the Bahamas are dire: if nothing is done, up to 90% of certain brain corals once common on near shore reefs will die, rendering those species locally extinct. The disease is also targeting so-called ‘coral dinosaurs’, formations that took hundreds of years to form, but which are

disappearing in the blink of an eye.

Before long, it is expected that local fish numbers will begin to plummet, along with sharks, sea turtles and other marine wildlife dependent on coral reefs. The fallout is also likely to accelerate erosion of our coasts, as fewer reefs mean bigger waves pummeling the shore. A low-lying country like the Bahamas will also be affected by even more flooding than we already experience, especially in the face of the stronger and more frequent hurricanes and tropical storms that come with climate change.

Eventually, seagrass beds, mangroves and other near shore habitats that are biologically interconnected with the reef systems will begin to die, while our world-renowned beaches will begin to wash away and disappear.

The cataclysmic effect this will have on our tourism industry, our fisheries, our dive operations and our general way of life as island people, is incalculable. I do not exaggerate in calling this a national crisis of the highest order for the Bahamas.

Thankfully, all hope is not lost. Just as with COVID-19 vaccines, the scientific community has developed a way to slow or even stop the spread of SCTLD. Researchers found that the use of the antibiotic Amoxicillin, applied strategically to an affected reef system, along with other measures, can halt the progress of the disease and give the coral a chance to survive and recover.

The Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS), a conservation NGO with an office in Nassau and staff on several Bahamian islands. It operates throughout the Caribbean and is well versed in this method. Back in 2020, PIMS approached the former government, explaining the serious and time-sensitive nature of the crisis. The Minnis administration was told that if action is not taken immediately, it could be too late.

PIMS recommended the formation of a multi-agency task force to develop and implement an action plan specific to the Bahamas. For more than two years, the scientists and divers have been waiting for the green light to begin taking action, but unfortunately, their initiative has become mired in bureaucracy and red tape. Meanwhile, the disease spreads further with each passing day. It has now gained a foothold in San Salvador, Eleuthera, Long Island, the Berry Islands and maybe

A specially trained scuba diver applying an antibiotic paste to the line separating living coral tissue from newly dead skeleton. others.

As the local environmental community never tires of saying, bureaucracy has no place in the fight to save our oceans, our resources and the tens of thousands of jobs that depend upon the blue economy in the Bahamas. As I write this, Florida is pumping millions of dollars into saving its reefs. Other countries in the region are taking action. Meanwhile, our politicians and civil servants continue to shuffle papers around without any end in sight. Lacking the necessary permits and approvals, the hands of the PIMS scientists are tied and have remained so for more than two years.

That doesn’t mean there is nothing the rest of us can do. Boaters, divers, fishermen and ocean-lovers can contribute to stopping the spread of SCTLD. The first way is by learning how to identify the disease and to report sightings so that PIMS can continue to monitor the spread. You can report sightings at: https://www.perryinstitute.org/contact-us.

Next, when snorkeling, spearfishing or scuba diving, it’s important to disinfect your gear after each dive to avoid accidentally spreading the disease between reefs. Dunking your gear in a bucket of seawater with sodium

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Before and after: When a coral becomes infected with Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (left) it can be completely dead within a matter of weeks (right). This relentless, dangerous malady is sweeping across our underwater landscape, threatening the fishing, diving and tourism industries.

Solutions exist and help has been offered, but the government is dragging its feet. percarbonate (commonly found in eco-friendly laundry detergent) added works well. Also, boaters should be careful not to transport water between reefs. Be sure to pump out any bilge at reefs where SCTLD is present. Disinfect any remaining bilgewater with a natural detergent and release it into open water away from reefs.

Above all, the most important thing we can do is demand that the government take swift action in the face of this urgent crisis. A national plan for saving our reefs has already been drawn up.

We must urge the decision makers to stop delaying, stop dithering, stop wast-

DEAD Giant Coral.

ing precious time, and let the qualified environmental scientists save our reefs, our livelihoods, before it’s too late.

With SCTLD, as with the COVID pandemic, politicians need to get out of the way and let the experts take charge.

It’s time to take this matter into our own hands. People of the Bahamas, I implore you to sound the alarm! Write or call your Member of Parliament, call into the radio stations and TV talk shows, start an online petition calling for immediate action to halt SCTLD. It is really now or never – whether you’re a fisherman, a tourism operator, a div-

er or simply one of that thousands of ocean-lovers that inhabit this beautiful, unique island nation, what you care

about is under severe threat and disaster looms closer and closer with every passing minute.

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Packing House Re-opened

rebrand those as well, but Hatchet Bay will be the hub for the agri-business center. We are intending by the end of the year to also have a processing facility here. It is called a ‘full kitchen’ where people who have extra tomatoes or other fruits and vegetables, can change them into sauces or jams and jellies. We are really trying to revive this industry, and we hope to see a real difference in a few years.”

Describing his ministry’s plans for and current actions in agriculture, he explained, “Dorian came for us in 2019 and we had no plan for agriculture and marine networks. We had no plans on how to remediate the soil following the scarring of salt water and decomposing remains. Covid-19 came and we had no plans on how to feed ourselves and manufacture and process our own foods. Now that the pandemic is almost over, many farms across the world are bankrupt and those that can produce cannot keep up with the demands worldwide. Foods that are being processed cannot go on the shelves before the product expires because of shipping delays. Foods that are arriving have an increased price tag. These are global problems. We are here to help provide a local solution.

“The reopening of this Packing House presents an opportunity for farmers to have a place to bring their goods to be examined, packaged, marketed and sold... At this Packing House we will pilot a onestop-shop for farmers. On this compound, we will have a stores unit to sell feed for animals, nationally approved pesticides - we will also sell seeds and seedlings to farmers. By the end of the year, right here in Hatchet Bay we will construct a food processing plant at this site to ensure that no food goes to waste. This food processing plant will be able to process these raw materials into jams, jellies, dehydrated fruits and other canned and bottled foods.

At this Packing House we will install, along with BAMSI, a greenhouse and a shade house. We will begin vertical farming. We will host classes in backyard gardening, pest/pesticide management, and other short courses and certified courses through BAMSI - to create a cadre of farming professionals

Pictured (L-R: Parliamentary Secretary, Mr. Leonardo Lightbourne; Minister Clay Sweeting and Mrs. Sweeting; Retired BAIC employee, Mrs. Lena Johnson; and Farmer extraordinaire, Diana “Lady Di” Thompson. that are prepared to take this industry to the next farmers will get the one-on-one assistance that is level. needed to help them succeed... Our goal is that ev“In short order we will be having Extension ofery method of farming that can be realized in these ficers stationed on Eleuthera to assist the Ministry islands are done. We want to encourage every type with capturing the data in creating farm maps for all of farmer. We will assist the seasoned farmers with the farms on Eleuthera. We will be able to identify tilling their lands and with getting access to potable the fruits and vegetables, where they will be harwater. We will engage and encourage our women vested, and even before harvest time. This will allow to use modern technology and innovation to farm farmers to access markets that they have not had efficiently, with less effort...” access to before, to sell their produce more easily, Sweeting emphasized,”This administration is and more efficiently. We will assist farmers in soil serious about food security and more importantly, testing and understanding which plants are more we are serious about you and we want to help you advantageous to grow and in what season. Our succeed. When you succeed, we succeed and our country thrives. We will meet our mandate to provide local organic foods that are healthier options to be sold, first locally, second to hotels and cruiselines, and third for export when we are able to provide a surplus. We will meet our mandate to reduce our current expenditure on imports, and we will increase our revenue by producing and processing enough to export.”

Mrs. Marilyn LaFleur, a local farmer in the Hatchet Bay area, as well as the Agricultural Officer for BAMSI in the Eleuthera office, while prepping sets of seedlings prepared to give out to interested farmers and backyard farmers following the reopening ceremony, said that she was elated with the current refocus on agriculture. “For some months now, the packing house has been - just here. The mere fact that life has returned to the packing house, I think it’s good for the Hatchet Bay area which is known on the island of Eleuthera to be farm country. Bringing the farm supplies store here is vitally important.

For some time they [government] have been trying to get the farmers and the farming cooperatives to take on this portfolio, but it has not happened. Agriculture has at this time beDiana ‘Lady Di’ Thompson and Mrs. Lena Johnson cut the ceremonial ribbon to reopen the Hatchet come one of the main focuses of the country Bay Packing House. in terms of feeding ourselves and looking to

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The Eleutheran

Free “Learn To Swim” Program

29

Offered Through the Eleuthera Sailing Academy The Eleuthera Sailing Academy in partnership with volunteers plan to host a free swimming lessons program for young Eleutherans ages 6-12, as a bridge to taking advantage of the sailing program at the Eleuthera Sailing Academy hosted in Savannah Sound by sailing coaches Martin Manrique and his wife.

“We realized that many kids don’t come because they don’t know how to swim and their parents don’t know how to swim. So some of our neighbours from Governor’s Harbour and Palmetto Point, wanted to help as volunteer teachers and start doing a swimming program,” shared Martin.

The free swimming program, beginning in April 2022 would be on-

going for six weeks, and is planned for two days per week, with one day in a swimming pool, and on Saturday mornings in Savannah Sound, where beginners will learn to become comfortable being in the open water, said coach Martin.

Parents interested in enrolling their children in the free swimming program are encouraged to register online by visiting the website (eleutherasailingacademy.com).

Martin expressed that they are also looking for more volunteer teachers, as well as pool owners willing to allow the use of their pools in the program, which could expand the swimming program to more settlements. Volunteer teachers and interested pool owners were asked to also register online.

lower the food import deficit... I’m excited, really, really excited. I believe that I won’t have to wait for three and four weeks to get supplies from Nassau - because my list went in and there are other farmers in front of me in the queue. We now have it right here on Eleuthera. I think it’s a brilliant idea at this time. We can only do better in farming from here on.

She continued, “I work in Extension services, and what has been amazing for me also is that I’ve had some other training in the area as well as food processing. I’m not just an extension person, but well-rounded in the agricultural sector. So, I am excited to assist people... I’m here to help. I’m not a person who’s afraid to get my hands dirty. If you are a new farmer needing information, I am prepared to come out there and literally get you started... I’m not afraid to get down with the farmers to do what needs to be done... We have quite a number of very young people, under the age of 35, who have taken on the mantle to farm. So, I’m adamant about trying to help them get started.”

The Minister of Agriculture along with officials of BAIC and BAMSI also hosted a community meeting with farmers and tenants of BAIC at St. Mark’s Methodist Church in Hatchet Bay on Thursday evening, February 17th. Farmers and BAIC tenants got an opportunity to voice their concerns and to interact with the minister and his panel to get answers to their many questions concerning the Government’s plans for the island of Eleuthera and longstanding challenges and issues experienced by farmers throughout the island.

BAMSI Agricultural Officer, Mrs. Marilyn LaFleur (far right), stands with her colleagues under the greenhouse on-site, where seedlings are nurtured.

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North Eleuthera Cleanup Campaign and Pop Up Mobile Clinic The Lower Bogue Clinic in conjunction with The North Eleuthera District Council, Governor General’s Youth Award (GGYA), The North Eleuthera High School, Harbour Island All Age School, Harbour Island Green School, Eleuthera Royal Youth Corp (ERYC) and other community stakeholders held a joint Cleanup Campaign and Pop-Up Mobile Clinic on Saturday morning, March 5th, 2022.

The cleanup campaign began at 8:30am with prayer in front of the

Above and Below: Students and community volunteers cleanup the Airport Road highway, from the Rubis Station to Three Island Dock.

North Eleuthera Volunteer Fire and Rescue building located on Airport Road, North Eleuthera. In attendance were more than 106 children which included 12 from the Eleuthera Royal Youth Corp (ERYC) headed by the Royal Bahamas Police Force, 36 from the Harbour Island All Age School, Harbour Island Green School brought 15 children and there were 43 from the North Eleuthera High School. Also, on hand to assist the youth were the Member of Parliament for North Eleuthera, Mr. Sylvanus Petty and many other members of the community.

The team of cleanup volunteers was split into 5 groups which focused on different areas of the Airport Road and covered the full length from the Rubis Gas Station intersection to the Three Island Dock area, including the surrounding parking lots. In total there were approximately 60 bags of trash collected and discarded at the North Eleuthera Landfill which consisted mostly of glass bottles and soda cans. Some derelict vehicles were also removed from the Three Island Dock and parking lot.

The Nurses of the Lower Bogue Public Clinic were also on hand at Three Island Dock with a pop-up clinic which allowed people to get free screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, weight, rapid HIV testing and flu shots.

On completion of the cleanup, which ran until approximately 12:00 noon, lunch was served to all those who attended and assisted with the event. Organizers extended a heartfelt thank you to all those who assisted in any way expressing that each contribution was greatly appreciated.

They added that this first cleanup exercise was just the beginning and looked forward to working with all of the volunteers again in the very near future.

-Written By: Aldred Albury

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JC Primary School Hosts First Annual

‘Principal’s Challenge’ Tennis Tournament Since Covid-19 hit the island in 2020, raising funds has been tough, especially for smaller schools like the James’ Cistern Primary school in Central Eleuthera - in light of students studying virtually, mostly at home for months on end; which meant no fun days or dress up days - which were the traditional ways for local schools to raise money for the myriad needs of daily maintainence and operation on campuses. Principal at JC Primary, Mrs. Mechelle Walker said she and her team of teachers had to be creative to come up with an event that would help their school in this cause.

Mrs. Walker being a lover of the sport came up with the idea to host the first annual tennis tournament for James’ Cistern Primary School. She said she knew that a lot of work and thought needed to be put into organizing the event and called on longtime friend and tennis coach, Mr. Artie Johnson, a person who knew it well to assist as the tennis tournament’s director.

The first annual tennis tournament called, ‘The Principal’s Challenge Tennis Tournament’ was scheduled for February 26th, 2022 on the last Saturday of the month of February. Even before the 26th, said Mrs. Walker, the school was fired up leading up to the date of the tournament. Flyers had been sent out, letters written, messages sent out via social media - people were excited about the day and shared their excitement through wordof–mouth as well. T-shirts for the event were bought, donations were received, and the principal said she was excited and nervous to see what the day would bring.

Describing the day’s events, Mrs. Walker shared, “February 26th, 2022 came and scores of tennis players from around the island came to show their support for this first annual tennis tournament. Registration started from 8:00 a.m. that morning and participants wasted no time excited to get started.

Amongst those who participated were Caitlin Walker, Mechelle Walker, Carol Young, Teresa Landers, Meredith Atwood, Alicia Albury, Sarah Brie, Elisa Herbet, Chris Evans, Glen Griffin, Horatio Green, Kevin Cooper, Kevin Carey, Robert Atwood, Charles Rolle, Raymond Pinder, Roy Rivera, Andrew Barr, Craig Gibson, Justin Pinder, Paul McCann, Tracy Posner, Chris Prapha, Bill McClellan, and P.J. Major.

She continued, “The tournament got off to a good start at 9:00 a.m. with the players hitting the ground running, excited, and energetic. However, due to inclement weather the games had to be postponed for an hour or two. But, as soon as the sun came back out, some players pushed together to get the court ready again for the games. After the sun came back out and the courts were dried, it was definitely game on! Everyone did an excellent job and had a great time in the name

of ‘The Principal’s Challenge Tennis Tournament’.”

In the Exhibition Match, Alicia Albury won against principal Mrs. Walker in 4 to 1.

In the Ladies’ Doubles, Champions were the team of Carol Young and Teresa Landers. In the Men’s Doubles, Champions were Raymond Pinder and P.J. Major. The winners all received trophies for their efforts out on the court.

Many are already looking forward to the second annual tournament from James Cistern Primary School said principal Mrs. Walker, who confirmed that it will be an annual event. “I look forward to next year being even bigger and better.”

Responses from those who took part were overwhelmingly positive she said, with one player sending this note aferwards, “What a great tournament this past Saturday. I don’t think anybody thought there would be such a turn out. It was fantastic to see that many people turn out to support Mrs. Walker’s cause and to take part in the tournament. There was a small delay due to the rain, but nothing serious. Mrs. Walker did a good job for her first tournament and I am sure the second will be even better. Congratulations.”

The ‘Principal’s Challenge Tennis Tournament’ event garnered generous sponsors, including Bahamas Environmental Group, Raymond Pinder, and the Office of Central and South Eleuthera District.

Principal Mrs. Mechelle Walker (right), with ‘Exhibition Match’ competitor, Alicia Albury.

Water Ferry Inspections Conducted by Police & Port Authority

On Thursday, February 24th, 2022 between 9am and 11am, Assistant Superintendents Farquharson and Rolle led a team of police officers along with Port Controller for North Eleuthera, Chief Petty Officer Seth Mather to conduct inspections of various water ferry operators. Validity of license and registration documents, as well as adherence to all Covid-19 protocols were checked during the joint operation. A total of seven (7) water ferry operators were found to be non-compliant. As a result, they were cautioned and informed to cease operations until they could satisfy the Port Authority and the Police.

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Dept of Labour/Careers Fair

saying, “One of the things happening with education is that we are seeing, with most career programs, shorter courses, we are seeing stackable courses, and certified courses. Along with shorter, stackable and certified, here in The Bahamas, they are also at this time, free. You have a unique opportunity right now to take advantage of that, and that skill will stay with you.”

He also highlighted the tendency of companies today to hire people with global certifications in specific skills.

Explaining BTVI’s proactive push in partnering with the Department of Labour in the series of careers fairs, Dr. Robertson said, “This is really im-

of potential activity here in Eleuthera - construction activity. So we want to make sure that students are aware of the options as quickly as possible.

He continued, “The careers fair will head to Exuma and Grand Bahama next, and we’ve also been invited to Andros as well. We will get to most of the islands as quickly as we can. I think one of the key things that’s different now post-Covid, is a lot of the training options we are offering are blended. They are partly online and partly face-to-face, and that really helps in a country like The Bahamas, with the island nature of the economy. So, we can open up opportunities across the

Dr. Robert Robertson, President of BTVI.

Preston Albury High students register with the Department of Labour.

Archilene O’Brien, Workforce Development Coordinator with BTVI. portant. Everyone recruits students during this time of year. They kind of go their separate ways, but this year we’ve got a really good partnership with the Department of Labour, with the LJM Maritime Institute, with the Ministry of Education and with local Island Administrators. So, the intent is to share all of the information that we have jointly with students about making choices for their future career in the next few months. Not only the students, but also the parents. It’s important that everybody understands that there are some really good options in The Bahamas right now - and we just want to share that information as broadly as we can. We get a lot of enquiries around now from parents and from students, so this is a way to do that.

“We are starting with this face-toface careers fair in Eleuthera. We’ve done some virtual sessions in Andros for example, and also in Grand Bahama, but as Covid conditions change a little bit, face-to-face is so much better - to answer questions after the presentations. There is obviously a lot

country now.

“At BTVI, we are really focusing on certified programs, as that’s what industry is looking for. We had data from surveys a number of years ago saying that Bahamian employers are concerned about some of the skill sets that Bahamians have for different kinds of jobs. 62% of employers are saying that Bahamian workers are not globally competitive. So, what they are looking for are industry certified credentials, and that’s basically what we are offering now. Through Cisco Academy, for example, through NCCER construction trades. We have those pathways for Bahamians to become certified globally, and that is exactly what contractors are looking for and employers generally.”

Deputy Director of Labour, Mr. Michael Colebrooke, describing the approach being taken by his agency, higlighted that while looking to harness the potential of young graduates coming into the workforce, they were also looking to have all unemployed Bahamians registered with them, and set on a path of training opportunities and full

employment. “This program is in collaboration with BTVI and LMJ Marine Institute. The Department of Labour decided to partner with those two entities, because we wanted to have registered throughout The Bahamas all people who are unemployed. We believe this is an excellent program and we encourage all young people and anyone who is unemployed within the communities to come in and register with the Department of Labour (at the Eleuthera Office located in Governor’s Harbour) or online. We will do our best to assist people registering with us in seeking employment and training options. This is not just for high school students but all Eleutherans who are unemployed.

“We begin this outreach in South Eleuthera, and from here we go to North Eleuthera (Gregory Town), Exuma, then to Grand Bahama, and our goal is to cover all the islands in The Bahamas. We have enormous potential in our young people in the Family Islands and they need to be given an opportunity. As the Deputy Direc-

tor of Labour I support the continued development of our Family Islands, especially the young people. I believe they have major contributions to make to the growth and development of our country. The Director of Labour, Robert Farquharson, has an aggressive approach in seeking employment for the unemployed person. We are of the view that too many of our jobs that are available to us today - Bahamians are not given a fair oppportunity. We believe we have the potential here, so it’s our goal to find that potential. We are reaching out to give them that opportunity. We also seek to minimize the number of work permits that are granted each year. We believe once we have the necessary training in place, we will be able to fill those positions with our young people.

Mr. Colebrooke added, “That’s our goal, to really go after this aggressively. To touch every island, throughout the length and breadth of the country to employ our Bahamian brothers and sisters. We want everyone to feel a part of

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Trayvon’s Drive-a-thons High School, and Central Eleuthera High School.

Trayvon’s mission, his mom says, will not stop there. His future plans include a food drive in April, back-to-school drive-in August, clothes drive in September, and a toy drive in November. His goal, she says, is to help as many children as he can. Anyone who would like to donate to Trayvon’s drives can reach out by email to (dandradean@hotmail.com) for more information.

Trayvon making a presentation of books to Windermere High School.

- a book drive - as he also Nine-year-old Trayvon loves to read.

Capron, a fifth-grade stuThe book drive resulted dent at Tarpum Bay Primary in donations from all over School, is on a mission to The Bahamas. With such a help needy children throughgreat turn-out, he donated out Eleuthera, says his mom gently used reading books D’Andra. She described to seven schools on the working together with him to island. These schools inhost different drives in Cencluded, Tarpum Bay Primary School, Emma E. Cooper Pritral and South Eleuthera to mary School, Emily G. Petty give back to the community Primary School, Rock Sound in a number of ways. Young Primary School, Deep Creek Trayvon began with his first Middle School, Windermere drive in February of this year

Trayvon Capron.

this process. We are happy that BTVI and LJM Marine have been able to partner with us. They have a number of technical programs on offer. Joining forces with them we can accomplish so much. I’ve been recently appointed as the officer in charge of Eleuthera, and I intend to work feverishly with the officers here on the island, to ensure that the potential of this island comes to fruition. We would like to encourage through this program an increase in the number of certified contractors, and have them in our bank of registered employees, so that when the jobs become available here in Eleuthera, they would be given first priority.”

Mr. Colebrooke encouraged the interested public who may not have attended the careers fairs to reach out to his team members in Eleuthera at the Department of Labour’s office in Governor’s Harbour - with main contacts being Administrative Officer, Margo Jarrett; Inspections Officer, Deon Johnson; and Labour Officer Rochea SandsPennerman.

Dr. Brendamae Cleare, President of LJM Maritime Academy.

The Eleutheran

33

PAHO calls for expanded access to cancer care

(Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the Americas)

On World Cancer Day in February, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) called for an increase in cancer treatment and prevention services to reduce new cases of the disease. If no action is taken, it says cases could increase by nearly 60% by 2040.

“Close the care gap” was the theme of this year’s World Cancer Day, organized by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC). The day was an opportunity to unite people in the fight against the global cancer epidemic.

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the Americas, after cardiovascular disease. According to estimates by the Global Cancer Observatory (Globocan), in 2020, 4 million people were diagnosed with cancer and 1.4 million died. If no action is taken, more than 6.2 million people are expected to be diagnosed with cancer by 2040.

“The pandemic has caused many obstacles, but we cannot go backwards in the fight P46 against cancer,” said PAHO Director Carissa F.

34 www. EleutheraNews . com

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Picture This: Hailshams

Annual Giveaway On February 18th, 2022 Hailshams Legal Associates held their annual outreach. Normally held just ahead of the Christmas holiday’s, key principal with Hailsham’s, Mrs. Agatha Bethel explained, “Due to the highly contageous omicron strain we postponed our annual Christmas initiative and decided to do it in February. This year we focused primarily on the students from the Special School in Governors Harbour. Instead of giving toys and treating them to a fun day at our office or a meal at a restaurant we gave ham or turkey and a dry food parcel of rice, grits, sugar, tea, cream, tuna, corned beef, toilet paper and napkins. We were cognizant of the economic challenges experienced by some of the parents. The staff of Hailshams Legal Associates believe in giving and as the quote goes, ‘We want to be the reason someone believes in the goodness of people’.”

Pictured: Mrs. Agatha Bethel and her daughter Azaria (left) standing with Hailshams team members Liz Cairns and Wilshenique Cooper.

SGPAA School Prefects Installed During the month of February 2022, the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School hosted an awards and prefects installation ceremony.

Caurthney Noel was chosen as head girl, along with two deputies - Tasia Russell and Diamond Roberts.

For the first time at the school, no head boy was chosen. Alternatively, two senior prefects were selected - Jacob Cates and Kervinson Julien.

There were a total of fourteen student leaders installed for the 2021-2022 school year.

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CBOB integrates Sand Dollar with Bahamas Automated Clearing House

Phase one allows transfers from digital wallets to local deposit account (2 March, 2022) – The Central Bank of The Bahamas has completed the initial integration of the Bahamian dollar digital currency (Sand Dollar) with the Bahamas Automated Clearing House (BACH) system. A milestone for the Central Bank, this latest achievement forges a necessary processing link with local banks. Sand Dollars can now be transferred from customers’ digital wallets to any deposit account held at a local clearing bank.

Explaining the importance of this integration, John Rolle, Central Bank Governor, issued the following statement: “This pass-through link between Sand Dollar wallets and deposit accounts provides essential connectivity of the digital currency infrastructure to the banking system. We are that much closer to achieving a seamless ecosystem between the digital and physical versions of the Bahamian currency. After months of beta testing, troubleshooting and refining the transaction process, we launch this phase with confidence in the integrity of the system that we have created. What we are saying, especially for businesses that we will be enticing to adopt the Sand Dollar, is that as they look to the near- to medium-term, the deposit of their register receipts can increasingly be made through a secure electronic transfer rather than a logistically challenging transportation of physical cash.”

To enable BACH transfers, users holding Sand Dollar mobile apps will pair the wallet to a single deposit bank account of choice. Users will be able to make transfers that will be concluded during the ACH’s daily operating hours (between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm on Monday through Friday).

According to a statement from the Clearing Banks Association, “the integration of Sand Dollar with BACH marks an important milestone in the journey towards increased adoption and use of the central bank digital currency in The Bahamas”.

The statement continued: “We are confident this integration with the banking system will prove beneficial for personal and business users who will now enjoy the benefits of a seamless link between fiat cash and digital currency.

“The CBA supports the Central Bank in its effort to promote efficiency in the domestic payments space and looks forward to working together to further promote financial access and inclusion.”

Regarding the adoption and use of the digital currency, Governor Rolle said, “We view Sand Dollar as complementary to physical cash, in that the Bahamian currency can move between physical and digital spaces without losing any value. Sand Dollar is, in fact, adding value to the marketplace by providing non-discriminatory access to payment systems without regard for geography and strengthening The Bahamas’ reputation as a leader

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in central bank digital currencies.

“At present, statistics are showing pleasing promise for our digital currency. With this launch of phase one ACH integration, we anticipate an uptick in Sand Dollar adoption as more merchants and consumers grasp the benefits and ease of utilising a digital version of the Bahamian dollar.”

Phase two of the Sand Dollar-BACH integration will allow users to top-up their digital wallets through third-party bank transfers from the linked deposit account. Development continues for this phase; however, the Central Bank expects this facility to be available during the second quarter of the year.

More details on the Sand Dollar, BACH transfer process, and plans for enhancement can be found on the Sand Dollar website (www.sanddollar.bs).

Second Curriculum / MOE

dress classroom size and greater proximity of schools to burgeoning communities,” said Minister Hanna-Martin.

She emphasized that the curriculum must be continuously monitored for positive outcomes and must at all times be contextually relevant to the national reality and global environment.

“The curriculum must reflect our national vision and collective values as a developing people who believe that this Bahamas can be and will be with God’s help and by our fervent efforts the finest little country on the face of the earth.

“The objective of this process of education delivery must be to create in our precious children and young people critical thinking, a commitment to excellence, an ethical grounding and a proud and confident new generation.”

Moreover, Minister Hanna-Martin informed that the new entrepreneurial skills curriculum which will be introduced to students in grades 8 and 9 will provide a solid

foundation for further studies in economics and commerce. Coding and development of software will be introduced to students in grades 7-9 as a part of the computer studies curriculum.

Further, the former carpentry and joinery curriculum is being replaced by the carpentry and construction technology subject matter to allow students to acquire more indepth training in the construction field. She said these innovations are forerunners to what will be an enhanced focus on technical and vocational education and training; the development of which is now actively underway.

(BIS Photos/Patrick Hanna)

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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

ing a quantity of suspected marijuana. The occupants were questioned reference to the owner of the backpack, and the Arrest reference to Possession of Danfront seat passenger, who identigerous Drugs fied, stated that the backpack Police on the Island of Eleuthera belonged to him. As a result, the have taken into custody a number suspect was arrested, cautioned, of persons in separate incidents for and taken to the North Eleuthera possession of dangerous drugs, Police Station, where he was induring the month of February, 2022 terviewed, and admitted that the marijuana belonged to him, which 1. Possession of Dangerous Drugs: he said was for his personal use.

Reports are that On Monday 28th The suspect was subsequently February 2022 sometime around charged with possession of dan7:40pm Officers reported that gerous drugs. while on enquires in the area of 4. Found Drugs (Suspected CoBarrack Street they observed a caine): Reports are that at about male sitting on the western side 11:15am on Thursday 24th Februof the street acting in a suspiary 2022, an adult male came into cious manner. As a result they the Governor’s Harbour Police reportedly approached the male Station and reported that shortly and conducted a search of his after 10:00am on Thursday 24th person and recovered a small foil February he and his wife found package containing a quantity of a plastic package containing green grassy like substance from what appeared to be suspected his front left pocket suspected to cocaine on the beach. Officers be marijuana. The suspect was visited the area in question howthen arrested, cautioned and ever, no other packages were transported to the Harbour Island found. This matter remains under Police Station for safe keeping active investigation. and further investigations. He was 5. Drug Arrest: Reports are that On subsequently charge with that Wednesday 23rdFebruary 2022, offence. sometime around 4:40pm Officers 2. Possession of Dangerous Drugs: while on Medora Road Palmetto Reports are that sometime around Point observed a light skin male 5:00pm on Monday 28th Februwho appeared to be looking in his ary, 2022 Officers returned to left hand acted in a suspicious Harbour Island Police Station with manner. He appeared to have an adult male after conducting a looked in the direction of the offisearch of his residence reference cers and quickly turned, as result, to firearms and dangerous drugs a search was conducted of this with negative results to firearms male where Officers retrieved a however, they discovered in his quantity of suspected marijuana. residence a small plastic bag He was arrested and caution. He of suspected marijuana, he was was subsequently charged with further cautioned reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs Possession of Dangerous Drugs.

6. Drug Arrest Case : Reports are He was subsequently charged that on Friday 18th February with that offence.

2022, sometime around 8:15pm, 3. Possession of Dangerous Drugs: Officers while conducting Reports are that On Saturday enquiries in the area of a local 26th February 2022, sometime restaurant and Bar observed a around 6:30pm, officers while on dark male sitting across from the mobile patrol, observed a Black entrance of the said establishToyota Passo license driving ment holding what appeared to at a high rate of speed. As a be a brown homemade marijuana result, the officers beckoned to cigarette. As a result the officers the driver of the vehicle to stop quickly approached the suspect the vehicle. The officers then and retrieved the suspected approached the vehicle, and immarijuana cigarette from his right mediately smelt an aroma, which hand. The suspect was then they suspected to be marijuana, arrested and cautioned referemanating from the inside. As a ence to possession of dangerresult, the officers became suspious drugs. A further search was cious and conducted a search of conducted of the suspect and the (2) male occupants, and the while searching his front right vehicle reference to dangerous pants pocket, the officers found drugs. While searching a purple (2) clear plastic packages, each camouflage backpack, which containing a quantity of suswas found on the rear passenpected marijuana. The suspect ger set, the officers discovered was transported to the Governor’s a clear glass jar, containing (2) Harbor Police Station, where he silver foil wraps, each containwas processed and charged.

Feb/March, 2022

7. Possession of Dangerous Drugs (Arrest): Reports are Police Contact that on Friday 18th February, 2022, at about 6:30pm, Officers came into Harbour Island Police Station with an Numbers adult male suspect and reported that at about 6:15pm HeadQuarters (GH) while in the area of Dunmore Street, Harbour Island, 332-3500 they arrested and cautioned the suspect reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs after a small quantity Governor’s Harbour of suspect marijuana was found in his possession. He 332-2111 OR 332-2117 was subsequently charged with that offence.

8. Possession of Dangerous Drugs Arrest: Reports are O/C Governor’s Harbour that on Tuesday 15th February 2022, sometime around 332-2723 11:31am, Officers while in the area of Queens HighGov.Harb. Airport Station way conducted a search of an adult male reference to 332-2323 dangerous drugs, during the search, Officers retrieved a plastic bag containing suspected marijuana from his Deep Creek Station front pocket. He was arrested and caution reference to 334-8207 possession of dangerous drugs. He was subsequently Tarpum Bay Station charged with that offence.

334-4033 9. Possession of Dangerous Drugs with Intent to SupRock Sound Station ply: Reports are that on Saturday 12th February 2022, 334-2244 sometime around 3:00pm; Officers reported receiving Rock Sound Sgt. Office information in respect to two American visitors on board 334-2212 a cruise ship who were found in possession of dangerRock Sound Airport Stn ous drugs. Officers responded to Princess Cays. Upon 334-2052 their arrival they saw and spoke to the Chief Security L. Bogue Station (Airport) Officer. He confirmed that the ship security is holding two adult males who were found in possession of 335-1208 suspected drugs. Additional information is that ship Harbour Island Station security conducted a search of their cabin and discov333-2111 ered a quantity of suspected marijuana, (2 )bags of O/C Harbour Island colour candies, and a bag of white powdery substance 333-2327 suspected of being cocaine, (3) bags of gummy bears, Spanish Wells Station (1) homemade cigarettes that contain suspected 333-4030 marijuana and two ( 2) plastic bags with suspected Gregory Town Station marijuana. Both males were cautioned and arrested.

335-5322 They were subsequently charged with Possession of Hatchet Bay Station Dangerous Drugs.

335-0086 10. Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs Reports are that on Friday 11th February 2022 sometime around 6:50 PM Officers came in at the suspect after he was observed station with an adult male of The Bluff, Eleuthera. acting in suspicious manner. A Reporting he was cautioned and arrested at 6:26 PM search was conducted of his today’s date in the area of Banana Beach reference person which revealed a clear to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. The suspect was plastic baggie of a quantity of processed and charged with that offence. suspected marijuana. He was 11. Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs: subsequently arrested and Reports are that on Friday 11th February 2022 somecautioned. The suspect was time around 6:45 PM the Crew of Eskimo 4 came processed and charged with that in at the Governors Harbour Police Station offence. with an adult male suspect, under arrest in reference 14. Possession of Dangerous Drugs: to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. The Officer reported Reports are that on Thursday that sometime around 6:30pm 11/02/2022, while 10th February 2022, sometime in the area of Sky Beach Resort Queens Highway around 2:08pm, Officers while Governor’s Harbour, he arrested and cautioned the conducting enquiries along Bay suspect after stopping his vehicle during a road trafStreet, Tarpum Bay, conducted fic check and finding a small quantity of Indian Hemp a traffic stop of a Gray Honda Fit in his wallet. with (2) male occupants. During 12. Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs, the stop the officers noticed that Assaulting a Police Officer and Resisting Arrest: the suspect’s appeared to be exReports are that on Friday 11th February 2022 sometremely nervous, which aroused time around 6:45 PM Officers came in at the Govertheir suspicions. As a result, a nors Harbour Police Station with an adult male under search was conducted of both arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs, the suspects and the vehicle, Assaulting a Police Officer and Resisting Arrest. They and while searching the area of reported that sometime around 6:30pm 11/02/2022, the gas tank compartment, the while in the area of Sky Beach Resort Queens Highofficers found a clear plastic way Governor’s Harbour, arrested and cautioned baggie, containing a quantity the suspect after stopping a vehicle he was riding of suspected marijuana. The susin during a road traffic check and upon attempting pects were shown the same and searching the suspect the suspect assaulted one arrested and cautioned referof the officers while attempting to discard a small ence to possession of dangerous package containing a small quantity of Indian Hemp. drugs. They were subsequently The suspect was processed and charged with that processed and charged with that offence. offence.

13. Drug Arrest Report : Reports are that on Thursday 15. Possession of Dangerous Drugs 10th February 2022, sometime around 8:20pm, with Intent to Supply/Search WarOfficers while conducting enquiries at Bay Street, rant Executed: Reports Harbour Island, conducted a search of an adult male are that on Thursday 10th February 2022 At about 5:25pm Officers armed

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Schools Outreach By Eleuthera Division Police Police Officers from stations throughout Eleuthera were involved in reaching out to schools and students in a variety of ways during the latter part of February 2022, as part of the RBPF’s goal of engaging with youth through community relations.

On Friday, February 25th, 2022, during their midterm break, a group of six boys from the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School assisted with the painting of the exterior of the Spanish Wells Police Station. The interior of the station was also cleaned by W/Sgt. 3341 Brancaccio assisted by Ms. Raiser Hamilton, a teacher with the All Age School. During the painting project, which began at 9am and ran until 3pm the same after, police officers provided soft drinks and lit the grill for them.

On the same day, later that evening in Central Eleuthera, Inspector Alexandria Albury hosted a zoom meeting with female members of the Eleuthera Royal Youth Corps - a police youth group initiative started early in 2021. Albury spoke with the girls about the direction the youth program would take going forward, after a six-month pause due to the pandemic.

Inspector Albury described the participation of the group of girls as enthusiastic, saying that they gave excellent suggestions and a proposed plan was formulated for the upcoming months. The students were also encouraged to share information on their current academic performance, so those who needed assistance could receive intervention. Other assignments were given and a follow up meeting scheduled where they would be

introduced to Ch/Supt. Shanta Knowles OIC of the Eleuthera Division and Supt.

Princess Scavella - Community Relations Coordinator. A virtual drill display in the homes wrapped up the all-girls meeting.

One day earlier, just ahead of the mid-term break, Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School held their annual literacy week characters parade. Officers of the Spanish Wells Police Station, Sgts. 2253 Brown, 3341 Brancaccio and 3531 Brancaccio participated in the colourful event, providing an escort for the parading students on the 20-minute walk through the Spanish Wells community. Following the parade, students returned on campus and engaged in fun activities like the three-legged race and tug-o-war. Police provided and operated the sound equipment for the event, to the delight and gratitude of the new principal, Ms. Navidia Mills. Officers from the Spanish Wells Police Station also engaged with grade one students earlier in February. Corporal Munroe read to the class a book entitled ‘The Red Turtle’, which highlighted the importance of embracing differences, and caring for one another.

Also, on the Thursday, Police in Central Eleuthera, in response to reports of arguments and other disruptive behavior on public school buses transporting students to the Central Eleuthera High School (CEHS), led an initiative dubbed, ‘Get on the Bus’. With the consent of District Superintendent of Education in Eleuthera, Mr. Michael Culmer and CEHS principal, Mr. Kevin Hepburn, Inspector Julian Newbold and his team of officers boarded buses destined for the town-

with a search warrant bearing the name of an adult male suspect, they conducted a search of an upstairs bedroom. Officers found a baby blue backpack on top of a shelf inside of a closet. The backpack was examined and the same contained 1(7) large plastic wrap that contained a grassy substance believed to be suspected Marijuana. The suspect was shown the exhibit and acknowledged that they belonged to him.

16. Search Warrant Executed: Reports are that on Thursday 10th February 2022 at about 7:50pm Officers armed with a search warrant bearing the name of an adult male of Barrack Street, Harbor Island. While conducting a search the suspect pointed out a bedroom that he occupies. While searching a hole that was located inside this bedroom, officers found a blue small nap sack. The nap sack was examined and officers found (2) clear plastic bags containing numerous of foil papers. The foil papers were examined and they contained a grassy substance believed to be suspected

marijuana. He was cautioned and arrested for possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply. The suspect and exhibits were transported to the Harbour Island Police Station where he was later processed and charged.

17. Possession of Dangerous Drugs with Intent to Supply : Reports are that at about 2:33pm on Tuesday 8th February 2022, Officers came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with suspects two adult male suspects arrest and reported they were both arrested at 1:30pm and 1:45pm respectively while at the residence for Possession of Dangerous Drugs with the Intent to Supply.

18. Drug Arrest Report : Reports are that on Saturday 5th February 2022, sometime around 5:50pm, Officers while conducting a Road Check in the area of the Glass Window Bridge, observed when a light green Nissan Note license, stopped a short distance away from the check point. The officers then noticed when the front left passenger door was opened and

RBPF team in Spanish Wells stand with first grade class at Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School. ships of Hatchet Bay, James’ Cistern and Governor’s Harbour. During the ride they shared conflict resolution tips with the students and heard their concerns. Inspector Newbold described the students as receptive, and DSE Culmer expressed gratitude for the ongoing partnership with the police.

Other police teams were also busy engaging with their communities that Thursday. Inspectors Bethel and Sands visited the Gregory Town primary school and the P.A. Gibson primary school in Hatchet Bay with their team. Inspector Sands spoke to the student bodies on the topic of conflict resolution and Inspector Bethel and Sgt. Walker presented a set of safety tips to keep safe during the midterm break.

On Wednesday, February 23rd, 2022,

a package was thrown from the vehicle. The vehicle then proceeded to the checkpoint where it was stopped and the officers quickly proceeded to the area where they observed the item being thrown. On arrival they found a clear plastic baggie, which contained a quantity of suspected marijuana.

A search was also conducted of the suspect’s vehicle. The suspects were arrested cautioned and transported to the N.E.P.S. where they were processed and charged.

19. Search Warrant Executed/ Drug Arrest : Reports are that on Tuesday 1st February, 2022, sometime around 8:20am, Officers acting on information received, proceeded to the residence of an adult male armed with a search warrant reference to dangerous drugs, firearm and stolen goods.

A search was conducted of the residence in his presence which resulted in the recovery of (2) silver foil wraps of suspected marijuana from a drawer in the northern bedroom. The Suspect was arrested and caution reference to possession of dangerous drugs.

a team of police officers led by Inspectors Farquharson and Albury visited primary and pre-schools in the Governor’s Harbour and Palmetto Point areas, including, Kids-R-Us Pre-School, Center for Exceptional Learners, Little Blessing First Steps Academy, Agape House Nursery and Pre-School, Governor’s Harbour Primary School and Emma Cooper Primary School. Officers took the time to explain the roles of the police within the community.

In addition to school outreach, the Eleuthera Division of the Royal Bahamas Police Force celebrated the renovation of their recreation room at the Governor’s Harbour police station. The completed project was the culmination of ongoing self-help efforts by officers from that station.

He was transported to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station where he was processed and charged.

House Breaking Report Officers from the Eleuthera Division responded to one house breaking complaint which resulted in the arrest of an adult male. Reports are that on Sunday 27th February 2022 sometime around 8:00pm an adult female contacted the Harbour Island Police Station via telephone and reported that at about 7:55pm while babysitting one of their guest child. She left the front room to check on the child in the bedroom and met a male known to her standing in the door way by the master bedroom. She further reported that she informed him that she was calling the police and he ran away in an unknown direction making good his escape. Police action requested. The suspect was later apprehended and charged with House breaking.

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PC Brawley Gardiner -

Journey to New Beginnings

New Police Constable, 20-yearold Brawley Gardiner, of Tarpum Bay, South Eleuthera - fresh out of recruit training, shared a little of his young journey, including setbacks and triumphs on the way to his new beginning.

Brawley Andrew Shakeem, born on June 7th, 2001 is the first child of Brawley and Shakera Gardiner. He was affectionately called BJ, since his toddler years, and he and his family hail from the picturesque settlement of Tarpum Bay. BJ began his early education at Sherry’s Preschool and continued on to Tarpum Bay Primary School, where he was described as a lively, outgoing child, who was also a bit mischievous at times. He displayed a love for sports and music at an early age. BJ would often be found at the ballfield or basketball court in the evening after school; or in the junkanoo shack during the approach of the Christmas season. He was a well-rounded student, who also displayed excellent academic abilities. Known for his outgoing personality, he never shied away from an opportunity to perform - whether it was beating a bass drum during the junior or senior junkanoo parades or competing in and winning the Mr. Tarpum Bay popularity contest at the age of 10.

Shakera, BJ’s mom, says he first expressed interest in becoming a police officer at the age of seven. He was present at the graduation ceremony of his uncle, Sergeant #1967 Kenwood Carey. He watched the proceedings, especially the drill segment, with awe and excitement. For weeks afterwards, he told everyone who would listen that he wanted to become a police officer like his uncle Ken. As BJ transitioned to secondary education at Preston H. Albury High School, his personality remained the same, however he admits that his path began to get a bit rocky. He shares that he recalled losing focus at times and wanting to ‘throw in the towel’. It was during this period in BJ’s life that he became involved with the Unity Builders, a communitybased organization founded to help uplift, mentor, and build young persons in the South Eleuthera Community. The organization was led by Mr. Michael Dorsett Sr., who BJ referred to as ‘Coach’. Within their organiza-

tion, the Unity Builders consisted of a softball team, junkanoo group and they participated and volunteered in numerous civic activities throughout South Eleuthera. BJ says he was happy to be a part of this organization and this association made a positive impact on his life, steering him in the right direction. Looking back also at life lessons learned on the basketball court while being coached by retired Police Inspector Lucas Armbrister, he says he now understands that while doing something that he loved, such as playing basketball - he was being taught discipline, respect and hard work - all important components of a successful life.

One of the biggest disappointments in his life, says BJ, was not being able to participate in his high school graduation ceremony in 2019.

Due to the Ministry of Education’s requirements for graduation, he missed out as he was one BJC short. He was devastated. Several of his peers had met the same fate and the common thought seemed to be that their hard work had been in vain. He remembers the reality of that situation sinking in, and how he took on the mindset that it was useless working hard for anything. However, God had other plans for his life, he says.

Later that summer, after receiving his BJC results, BJ eventually received his diploma. However, he was still clouded with discouragement.

He found himself idle and getting into mischief at times. He eventually relocated to New Providence to begin studies in Electrical Installation at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute. But while there, he met with challenges that dictated his return to Eleuthera. He joined the construction workforce and worked for several months with Morley’s Building Solution (Tyson Morley), and also worked in Abaco for a period. BJ at this time was still being encouraged by his mentors in the Unity Builders to continue striving.

The year 2021 proved to be the one that would bring the turnaround that BJ had been patiently waiting for.

His daughter Braliyah Monae Gardiner was born, and her birth significantly elevated his desire to achieve. After making application for the career, that had tugged on his imagination since the age of seven - on September 1st, 2021 he received the call advising of

P/C #4444 Brawley Gardiner. his acceptance as a recruit into the Royal Bahamas Police Force. BJ says he remembers feeling nervous, grateful, and humbled all at once. He immediately began to mentally prepare himself for the task ahead and for the new journey on which he was about to embark.

Six months later, P/C 4444 Gardiner, recalling his time in training, says that it was not easy, but it was worth it. He remembers the most difficult time during his training was not being able to be with his family or say his final goodbyes after the passing of his grandfather, Mr. Samuel Carey, the patriarch of the Carey family, and his aunt Mrs. Sharon Smith-Carey. He drew comfort, he says, in knowing that they would have been proud of him and his accomplishments.

P/C Gardiner attesting to the saying, “It’s not how you start that’s important but how you finish”, express-

es that he is excited to begin this new chapter in his life. He also states his intentions to complete his studies at BTVI. With rejuvenated confidence, he firmly declares that for him, the sky is the limit. He has committed to do his best, to serve with dignity and pride and to work to reach the top ranks of the Royal Bahamas Police Force.

Young Gardiner says he thanks God for granting him this chance to make a difference and he hopes that his life will be an inspiration to others.

He says he is especially grateful for his grandmother Mrs. Lillian Carey and grandfather Brad Gardiner, his parents and sister Bradesha, and other family members for their constant support and prayers. He also extends his gratitude to the Tarpum Bay Community at-large and encourages all young men from his island home to never give up on life and to follow their dreams.

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INSPIRING: Principal & Staff lead students with a vibrant Literacy Week Thursday, February 24th, 2022 dawned bright and beautiful - the perfect backdrop to the climax of the ‘first ever’ Literacy Week celebration at the North Eleuthera High School (NEHS).

The day saw students from both junior and senior high take part in a colourful fairytale character and poster parade around community streets near the school grounds, which ended in the courtyard at NEHS, where an energetic rally was held, drawing students into competitive literacy knowledge games with sweet prizes, and a hopping segment dubbed ‘In the Classroom’, which saw participating students having to keep up with the rhyme.

Teachers from the Language Arts and Guidance departments (Ms. A. Coleby, Ms. L. Rolle, Ms. D. Woods, and Ms. R. Williams), who were the main organizers of the week’s foray into reading, writing, spelling, discussion and creative expression - got into the fun swing of things on Thursday as well performing their very own rhyme rap renditions, and as hosts of the literacy rally.

Prizes and certificates were awarded for activities held throughout the week and the literature fun wrapped up with the awaited announcement of the junior and senior class winners of the fairytale poster competition - with class P40 pizza parties on the prize line. Grade

Sleeping Beauty and Prince Charming.

Omari’s

Guidance Counselor Ms. Williams with NEHS Principal Mrs. Chardel Brown-Gibson.

metto Point and Tarpum Bay with the help of some of his teachers, classmates, family and friends. In his words, Omari says to help people if you can and do not litter.

Community Helping Hands Lateka Culmer, a local teacher and mother shared recently that during September of 2021, she assisted her ten-year-old son, Omari Rolle, a fifth grader at Emma E. Primary School in Palmetto Point to launch a Helping Hands Community Initiative on the island. This idea, she said, came about when she saw that his school’s virtual learning had turned into staying on devices all day in school and all evening at home. To counter this, Mrs. Culmer asked Omari, to think of ways he could help in the community. He suggested a few and one was the Coins for Cancer program. This was an initiative his former teacher Ms. Jimenez had coordinated at his school in the past. Omari had a few family members who had passed away from cancer in the past few years, including grand aunts Menera Cooper, Bernadette Panza, and Eula Culmer and grand uncle Oscar Sands. This inspired Omari to collect the coins in memory of his loved ones with all proceeds given to the Cancer Society in Eleuthera.

He collected the Coins for Cancer by setting up donation bottles at different stores on the island including, Berts for the Best, Da Medicine Place, Midway Cost Cutters and The Lumber Shed. The bottles

were in place for more than a month and other donations also came in from Canada and Nassau. Thanks to all of the stores that assisted in his venture and generous shoppers, Omari was able to collect $500 to donate to the Cancer Society.

Now back in school fully face-to-face, young Omari took his Coins for Cancer bottles to school and distributed them to all classes. The incentive for the kids to compete in how many coins they donate is the pizza party up for grabs for the class with the most money collected by Easter. Omari plans for another donation to be made to the Cancer Society after the Easter Break.

The Coins for Cancer bottles will then be placed back in local stores in Eleuthera to continue the initiative.

Mrs. Culmer also assisted Omari in a monthly cleanup campaign. During the school midterm break in February 2022, Omari and his mother traveled to the park in Savannah Sound and cleaned up the area.

An elderly gentleman, Mr. Lester Wallace, said Mrs. Culmer, was sitting there and assisted in the cleanup as well. Omari and his mom said they are looking forward to cleaning up in different locations across the island each month. Since he began, Omari has cleaned up in Savannah Sound, Pal-

Omari Rolle with helpers taking time out to cleanup.

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nehs/lit week

7a took the top prize in the junior high division with their rendition of a 3D Hansel and Gretel poster creation, and in the senior division, the 11b class celebrated with great excitement as their Ugly Duckling theme was called out as the winning presentation.

New principal at the school, Mrs. Chardel Brown-Gibson, who joined her teaching and administrative team at NEHS in September of 2021, actually brought the concept of “literacy week” with her from her previous posting in Spanish Wells, where she served as principal for six years. “This is our first literacy week here at the North Eleuthera High School. The chairperson was Ms. Inga Rolle.

She pulled in all of the people who worked along in her department, including Ms. Coleby and Ms. Woods. Then she brought in the Guidance Department with Ms. Williams, along with some other persons to make sure that this week was a success,” shared principal Gibson.

Describing the activity packed week, “We started on Monday with ‘Motivational Monday’, and each day classes were given a quote and riddles that they had to figure out. Also, teachers talked with students about books, to see what the children had already read… There was a spelling bee on Tuesday, and each teacher also had a chart in their classroom and students were encouraged to think of adjectives (like bee beautiful, bee exciting, bee helpful, and the like). On Wednesday we had table topics in the senior school - with grades 10, 11 and 12. Students had to pick a topic, and on a moment’s notice, speak on that topic. They had topics like: ‘Should marijuana be made legal’, ‘increasing the age for a driver’s license’ or ‘increasing the age to drink’ - topics like that and, ‘what is it that money cannot

Teachers got into character for the parade.

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Senior Winners 11B - Ugly Duckling

Above and Below: 11th graders celebrate their win in the poster and character parade competition.

buy’. Students also spoke about their families, the importance of love, self-esteem, motivation, and giving themselves a second chance. They also spoke about their dreams and what they want to do in the next ten years. Everybody had something good to contribute. It was amazing to

see the most unlikely people speaking so well, so fluently on each of these topics,” said Mrs. Gibson.

She continued, “Today with our march, each class had to depict a fairytale, and after the march was a big rally with games and excit-

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ing activities, like ‘In the Classroom’ - where students were challenged to keep the rhyme going... This literacy week, we wanted to get the students reading, writing and talking - focusing on their work, studying and trying to improve their grades - trying to see what it is they need to do to do better in their studies and to see what it is we need to do to help them with that improvement... We also had our prefect installations on Monday. We had 15 girls and 5 boys installed as prefects.”

Mrs. Gibson noted, “One thing we want to do next year is to increase the number of boys installed.”

Asking Principal Gibson about distinctions in her move from Spanish Wells to North Eleuthera High School, she shared, “It’s different, coming from Samuel Guy Pinder, where the school was surrounded and cushioned and supported by the community and the parents. So, coming here, I want to see if I can encourage that. I want the community to know that this is their school. We cannot do anything without the community, and without our parents. I was so glad to see that parents came out. They dropped in at different times this week. And I’m seeing that the parental support is increasing. I’m seeing that I can ask for something and I’m getting it. There is a lot of work that needs to be done here. We need to increase the self-esteem among the students, and let them know that they are intelligent, that they can do well - so that they can get away from the stigma that because I’m from a certain settlement I’m supposed to do only this, or from here, so I can only do that. We want them to know that every child can learn. We have this motto, ‘No child left behind.’ And that’s what we want to do here at North Eleuthera High School.

Grade 12 - Goldilocks & The 3 Bears Above: Grade 12 - Goldilocks and the hungry bears - plus the immaculate uniform!

Below: Ninth graders depict the story of Little Red Riding.

9B - Red Ridinghood

NEHS Security Guard in beautiful prints.

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Expressions!

Feb/March, 2022

Photo feature: Cont’d 43 - 46

Spirited rap selection by teachers.

Above and Below: Rousing ‘in-the-classroom’ rhyme challenge.

Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your hair!

Students received certificates for participation in table-top discussions and intra-school spelling bees during literacy week.

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Student smiles all around on parade day.

Hungry bears dominated the drum line.

Three Little Pigs with the Huff and Puff crew.

Photo feature: Cont’d 44 - 46

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Feb/March, 2022

Personality, Creativity, Enthusiasm & more...

Tenth grader reciting a poem, called ‘Hey, black child’.

Snow White and her dwarves.

Ninth grader Kaynia Minnis performing an inspiring poem, “I believe in me’.

Above: Grade nine in green showcasing elements of Jack and the Beanstalk. Below: Tenth graders bring Cinderella to life with beautiful belles dressed the part, as well as a pair of slippery glass slippers.

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On this page classes depict Sleeping Beauty, Hansel & Gretel, and the Ugly Duckling.

Grade 7’s Hansel & Gretel won the poster competition in the junior high division.

Photo feature: END

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ne a r by

Feb/March, 2022

Consumer Protection Commission Statement on Price Increases During the month of February, the Consumer Protection Commission released a statement on rising prices in the Bahamas, linking it directly to events in the US. The release stated: “We are looking at staggering price increases due to US inflation. The Consumer Protection Commission has taken note of the rise in inflation in the United States – The Bahamas’ largest trading partner – and the warnings from local merchants that the price of everyday goods are expected to also rise as a result.

The Commission will continue to monitor the global change in prices of consumables and ensure that all local wholesalers and suppliers abide by the regulations laid out in the Consumer Protection Act and the Price Control Act. Bahamians should bear in mind that inflation in the United States has risen by more than seven percent in the past year and is the largest annual spike in the consumer price index for the nation in more than 30 years.

“One of the biggest challenges in our country is that more than 90

percent of our goods are imported.

Due to the supply chain disruptions, bad weather, staff and trucking issues in our number one source market, the United States, our prices will rise,” Consumer Protection Commissioner Walter Ferguson said.

“Inflation has hit the United States by seven percent, so you can only imagine what is going to happen here in The Bahamas. We are looking at staggering price increases. There is no way, at this time, to control this global environment. What we will have to do as Bahamians is buckle our belts, tighten up and buy

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Recommencement

of Regattas and Homecomings

(March 6, 2022): Ministry of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Affairs officials are delighted to recommence Regattas and Homecomings after Prime Minister, Hon. Philip ‘Brave’ Davis QC, announced that the Cat Island Rake n’ Scrape Festival and Regatta would resume this year.

Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs Hon. Clay Sweeting, who was on hand for the Prime Minister’s announcement in Cat Island this past weekend, said his Ministry is excited.

“Regattas, Homecomings and Festivals have been supportive economic bursts for Family Islands, and we are excited as a Ministry to start to organize and support Family Islanders. As a Government, we want to get back to normal as soon as possible and to encourage Bahamians to support our local economies with us as we continue to launch new initiatives to foster economic and cultural growth,” he said.

The Ministry will work with Ministry of Health and Wellness to ensure that all COVID-19 protocols are adhered to and will await official permission to resume festivals, regattas and homecomings.

Source: Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources

what is needed more than what is wanted.”

The Consumer Protection Commission reminds Bahamians of their rights to receive expected value for services and purchases rendered, which are safeguarded by legislation.

Consumers are advised that they can launch a formal complaint to the Commission at www.cpcbahamas. org, ensuring that they include copies of relevant documents including receipts, warranties, contracts, email correspondences and a concise explanation of the grievance.”

PAHO/Cancer

Etienne. “Access to health services make it possible to detect cancer early and treat it effectively,” she said.

Globally, non-emergency services, including cancer screening and diagnosis, were severely affected by restrictions and closures, as well as by the diversion of resources to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. This is expected to increase existing inequalities in cancer care.

In the Americas, moreover, significant inequalities in access to cancer care existed before the pandemic, leading to poor health outcomes. While in North America the survival rate for children with cancer exceeds 80%, in Central America and the Caribbean it is 45%.

These inequities also exist in access to cervical cancer screening, prevention and treatment. Screening coverage for cervical cancer varies from 7% to 89% in the region and mortality rates range from 2 deaths per 100,000 women in Canada to 19 deaths per 100,000 in Paraguay.

Cancer is preventable Between 30-50% of cancer cases can be prevented through vaccination (against hepatitis B and papillomaviruses) and by reducing the prevalence of known risk factors, such as tobacco use (which causes 25% of cancer deaths), Diets that are deficient in fruits and vegetables and high in red and processed meat; alcohol consumption; physical inactivity; overweight and obesity, and exposure to carcinogens in the workplace are also risk factors.

“Accelerating prevention is key to avoid new cases,” stressed PAHO’s Director of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health, Anselm Hennis. “And for that prevention to be effective it must be based on

government-wide approaches, with legislation, regulation and fiscal policies combined with activities to change individual and community behavior,” he added.

PAHO/WHO is promoting three global campaigns in the Americas that seek to address the cancer burden. These initiatives aim to prevent and treat cervical cancer, increase childhood cancer survival, and prevent breast cancer, the most common cancer in women.

Cancer in the Americas - 2020* • •

•

•

•

•

•

57% of cases and 47% of deaths occurred in people aged 69 years or younger.

The types of cancer most frequently diagnosed in men are: prostate (28.6%), lung (11.7%), colorectal (10.2%) and bladder (5.9%).

The most frequently diagnosed cancers in women are: breast (30.7%), lung (10.3%), colorectal (9.6%) and uterine (6.4%).

The types of cancer with the highest mortality rates in men are: lung (20.6%), prostate (14.5%), colorectal (10.6%), pancreatic (7%) and liver (6.6%).

The cancers causing the highest number of deaths in women are: lung (18.4%), breast (17.5%), colorectal (10.6%) and pancreatic (7.2%).

Almost 500,000 new cases of breast cancer and more than 100,000 deaths from breast cancer were registered in the region.

74,410 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer in the Americas and 37,925 lost their lives.

* Estimates by the Global Cancer Observatory (Globocan)

2022, Page. 6

Lo c a l

Feb/March

Eleuthera medical center /Colonoscopy

“Today we have six patients booked, because we wanted to take it slowly. This is our first day. But we have the capacity to serve ten patients per day.

The gastroenterologist, Dr. Flloyd Carter, has agreed to come once per month, and there is also an opportunity for us to have other gastroenterologists come in, so that we can possibly offer it as often as weekly, depending on the demand. Everybody over the age of 45, male or female, should have a colonoscopy every eight to ten years, depending on your risk. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in both men and women. In women only breast cancer is more prevalent, and in men, only prostate cancer is more prevalent. The thing about colon cancer is that it is a slow-growing cancer, so if you catch it as a polyp, you can remove the risk. It’s truly saving lives, so it’s emotional for me to be able to bring this to the island as an addition to what we already bring, like advanced life support, emergency room services, and all the other services we have.”

One of the patients who had a colonoscopy done on the first Sunday of the service launch shared, “I had such confidence having been coming here for the past three years, and Dr. Lightbourne, and the fact that he would only bring the best over here. At the end of the day, in the Bahamas, amongst men it’s [colon cancer] a killer, and you can’t brush your teeth after you have cavities. So, you might as well get straight right off the bat.” When asked why he had

wanted to get the procedure done, he candidly shared, “It’s just age, and I wanted to get out in front of it, and not have to play catch-up.”

According to Dr. Lightbourne the Eleuthera Medical Center has a number of other added services on tap to become available in the short term.

He described, “In several weeks we intend to also launch our ambulance service. Why is that unique? Some may say we have ambulance services already.

The ambulances that are here, albeit they are amazing people they are volunteering their time, but they are not at the level of training as it relates to pre-hospital care that is standard in a first-world country. Most of them are first-responders or first-aiders and some of them may be EMTs. What we have are paramedics, the highest level of prehospital professionals, which means that they can provide most of the care that you would get in an emergency room - the IV medications, pain medication, heart resuscitation, intubations, and take that care to you in the field - thereby significantly increasing your chances of surviving. Not to mention there is no need to go and pickup a nurse.

Our team is here and ready to go, so response times are also going to be better, faster. So this is again another milestone.

While we only have one ambulance today, we intend over the next several months to invest in two additional ambulances, so we can have as much back-up as possible. Eleuthera is unique because it is a very long island, so it’s difficult to navigate how to

manage this. We will probably only be able to go as far as Gregory Town in the north and Rock Sound in the south, but we will look to expand that capability to go beyond those limits.”

He continued, “We also have cardiology coming here.

Why is that important? Because it means that patients with longstanding high blood pressure, diabetes and other issues can have echocardiagrams or stress tests, which can be used to determine if you are at risk for a heart attack. We can then put steps into place to circumvent that risk. We know that heart disease is the number one cause of death in men and women. As I mentioned, colon cancer is the second cause of cancer death, but the number one cause of all deaths in men and women is heart disease (heart attacks and strokes). An echocardiagram and stress test can identify your risk factors for that particular problem. So, in partnership with Doctor’s Hospital, we intend to launch that service over the next several weeks as well.”

The vision for expansion in 2022 will continue throughout the year said Dr. Lightbourne, “We are developing a new surgical wing, an operating theatre.

We are also exploring the ability to admit patients overnight - that is going to come this year. We are looking at a CT Scan and a mammogram machine before May of this year. Lots of really exciting projects. We intend to make it very clear that there is no need in almost any case to go elsewhere, because healthcare at a very high quality is available right here in Eleuthera.”

The Eleutheran

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1 (242) 422-9350 email / website services@TheEleutheran.com editor@TheEleutheran.com www.EleutheraNews.com

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1 (242) 332-2993 The Eleutheran, P. O. Box EL-25166, Governor’s Harbour Eleuthera, The Bahamas.

The Eleutheran

Page. 12

Commentary

No Busting Sactions

tries made a declaration condemning the Russian invasion, I stated on behalf of Antigua and Barbuda the following: “Small and military powerless states depend upon adherence and respect to the agreed and settled principles that are set out in the UN Charter and in international law. When these principles are flouted and international law is violated, small states are obliged to speak out loudly in our own interest as much as in the interest of nations that are the actual victims of aggression”.

And, that is the crux of the matter. When international law is breached, the wall that safeguards the interest of small states crumbles, exposing them to the aggression of others; and that aggression can come in many forms, not only military.

In any event, the action of Russia in the Ukraine is now so vicious, so inhumane and so alarming that no right-minded society anywhere in the world can do anything but forcefully condemn it. Innocent people, including children and babies, are being killed in their homes as Russia bombards them with long-range missiles in the Russian government’s attempt to seize control of their country. Nothing could justify such brutal and cowardly behaviour.

In standing up for an immediate end to the unjustified violence and slaughter in Ukraine, and for the sanctions that have been imposed on Russia, the 141 countries that voted at the UN, and the 25 that voted at the OAS, including all CARICOM states, were also standing up for the protection of themselves from the tyranny of more militarily powerful countries. They were standing up for human values of the right to life and the right to live in peace within secure borders.

In every society, there are those who seek to gain from misfortune and misery. Sadly, there is already some speculation in the Caribbean that governments should allow private companies to profit from busting sanctions against Russia by accommodating, for instance, the yachts of the Russian Oligarchs who have become billionaires through their cosy relationships with the Russian government.

Still others complain about the higher prices that they will have to pay for commodities, such as oil and its related uses. But such persons should be reminded that freedom and the protection of human life and dignity comes by defending what is right and by some sacrifice.

Higher prices will have to be paid for a time, but it is worth the freedom and rights that all humanity deserves. To see the sacrifice for rights and freedom, we need look no further than the courage of the Ukrainian people – men, women and children – who are confronting Russian military tanks and weaponry with nothing in their hands but the flag of their besieged nation.

In the Caribbean, we should remind those, who advocate sanctions busting for short term gain, of the biblical admonition: “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul”.

Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com

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