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Volume 15, 6/12, June/July Issue
Eleuthera, Harbour Island & Spanish Wells, The Bahamas
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` and Information. We Deliver!’’ Monthly In Print & Daily Online. Since 2008 - ‘‘Eleuthera’s most reliable Source of News
PM First To BREAK GROUND
Harbour Island, Spanish Wells & Eleuthera
BACK COVER: Damianos Sotheby’s Int’l P 3: Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty P 5: HG Christie
SOIL Turned on New Housing Subdivision at rock sound
LEADERS Senior Nurses undergo training to become leaders within their profession.
- Page 42 On Thursday morning, June 30th, 2022, at 10am, The Ministry of Transport and Housing, led by Minister Jobeth Coleby-Davis, hosted a ground breaking event at the site of a new housing subdivision at Ocean Hole in Rock Sound, South Eleuthera. The Rock Sound site is one of three visited by Minister Coleby-Davis and Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, Minister Clay Sweeting during the final quarter of 2021, as they scouted for areas on the island available, where affordable housing opportunities could be developed. Governor’s Harbour, and Hatchet Bay P42 are also earmarked for upcoming housing developments.
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ADVICE - 13
OPINION - 12
Good News ADVICE - 14 Fishing In The Swamp
Summit Worth Attending Conservation - 26 Hurricane Forecast
Our People, Life, Moments, Celebrations, Efforts, Strides...
Key words of ‘transformation’, ‘overcomers’, ‘resilience’, and ‘inspired’, resounded from this year’s commencement themes which took place across Eleuthera during the final half of June.
HIGHLIGHTED: Swimming Lessons to Save Lives .
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Quotables - 13 Upcoming - 6/33
- Page 10 -
Top Cops: Changing of the Guard. Page 16
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Bahamasair Increases Airlift to/from Governor’s Harbour
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism office in Governor’s Harbour, released an advice to the public on June 24th, 2022 informing that the local ‘Flag Carrier’ airline, Bahamasair has increased its’ flight service to and from New Providence into the Governor’s Harbour airport from 2 days to 4 days a week. Flights are now scheduled on Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. For additional information, the public is advised to call the Ministry of Tourism office in Governor’s Harbour should additional information be needed.
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‘Digital Village for Eleuthera’ -
(FAO and MOAMRFIA Ink Four-Year Agreement) In an effort to assist with the transformation of the agrifood systems in The Bahamas, the Ministry of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs (MOAMRFIA) and the Food Agriculture Organization (FAO) have signed an Agreement for the development of a Digital Territorial Village in Eleuthera. The village is a hub to create linkages between rural-urban communities for digital innovation ecosystems to drive the support
of agribusiness in targeted communities on Eleuthera. This will be accomplished through providing access to apps, e-commerce and other innovative technologies used to boost agriculture development. It is a pilot programme that is a part of the signing of FAO’s 2022-2026 Country Programming Framework (CPF), which allocated $200,000 in assistance to The Bahamas. Minister of Agriculture,
Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs, the Hon. Clay Sweeting, signed the document with FAO Representative Dr. Crispim Moreira during the final week in June 2022. “What is important about this is that we have a working document that can move with the times. The Digital Village is something that I am very excited about because I believe that it is a way to bring the Family Islands closer to New Providence and also help with emerging markets to connect not just nationally, but internationally as well,” Minister Sweeting said. “We are excited about what we are about to do together and want to continue to foster this relationship.” Within this framework, there is a commitment to develop mecha-
nisms, instruments and partnerships to promote investments and funding to support youth and rural women entrepreneurs. Dr. Moreira spoke to the importance of the document. “Today, the signing of this instrument collaboration and cooperation is symbolic. It solidifies a commitment between the Government of The Bahamas and FAO to strengthen and further our collaboration. It also represents FAO’s legitimate contribution to The Bahamas’ national development,” he said. “Furthermore, this new CPF is aligned with the FAO’s new region-
June/July, 2022
Eleuthera Calendar of Events 2022
Prepared by: (Mrs. Samantha Fox, Senior Officer, Eleuthera Tourist Office) The Eleuthera Tourist Office notes, “This information is subject to change. As we receive updated information the Eleuthera Events calendar 2022/2023 will be edited to reflect.”
WEEKLY EVENTS: •
FISH FRY is currently held in the following settlements every Friday @5:30 p.m. -Until: Governor’s Harbour and Rock Sound
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FISH FRY is held in James’ Cistern on Saturdays only @5:30 p.m. - Until.
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Governors Harbour Farmers & Crafters Market, is held on Queen’s Highway, by the Bayfront Park - on Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
UPCOMING EVENTS: •
Hatchet Bay Fest (July 26th August 1st)
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al initiatives, and the principles of FAO’s Strategic Framework 2022 – 2031, which focus on the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agri-food systems for better production, better nutrition, a better environment – leaving no one behind.” The CPF is a tool used by the FAO to define its short and medium-term response to the needs of member countries in pursuit of their national development objectives. It seeks to ensure access to and availability of safe and nutritious food and healthy diets; sustainable and inclusive agri-
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Regional Unity at the Core of PM Davis’ address at CARICOM
Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs, the Hon. Clay Sweeting, with FAO Representative Dr. Crispim Moreira. (BIS Photo/Patrick Hanna)
food systems and agricultural value chain development, to achieve prosperous and inclusive societies among Family Islands and resilience to climate and economic shocks through sustainable use and management of natural resources.
Over the next four years, FAO is expected to increase its work in the country and strengthen its partnership with various ministries, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), UN Agencies and other development partners.
In September 2020, FAO launched the “1000 Digital Villages Initiative” programme that promotes the digitization of services in rural areas.
Source: Ministry of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs
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PM Davis’s speech at the CARICOM Heads of Government meeting on Saturday, July 3rd, 2022, was a rallying cry for regional unity. “Each one of us faces the extraordinary challenges associated with these times. These occasions to meet and work together are a gift, and I know many of you share my determination to make the most of the opportunities they represent,” said Davis, as he addressed his Heads of Government colleagues. He continued, “This is an opportune juncture to remind ourselves of the many ways our community of friends and partners are bound together; our connection only begins with shared geography. Like any family, our members do not always see eye to eye, but our interwoven histories, traditions, and relationships provide a foundation for meaningful deliberation, collaboration, and innovation. “Forty-nine years ago, we were focused on the potential opportunities of regional integration. Today, we find ourselves focused on confronting shared challenges, including: The economic constraints and vulnerabilities inherent to Small Island Developing States; • The ongoing COVID pandemic, which includes new variants, depleted health care systems, long-term health impacts, and the need to strengthen prevention, surveillance and treatment; • a global inflation crisis, which leaves many of our people struggling to afford food, energy, and housing costs; • social security systems stretched to the maximum as we seek to provide safety nets; and of course, • the existential threat posed by climate change.” P17 Davis highlighted the striking fact that so many of the
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Nurses in Eleuthera Graduate from Leadership for Change Programme Six nurses in Eleuthera, on June 17th, 2022, were the very proud graduates from the Leadership for Change (LFC) and Training of Trainers (ToT) Programme, facilitated by the Nurses’ Association of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas (NACB). The graduation ceremony was hosted at St. Patrick’s Anglican Church Hall in Governor’s Harbour, beginning at 11am on Friday morning. Moderator for the morning’s ceremony was, Deputy President of the Commonwealth Nurses and Midwives Federation, as well as LCF Facilitator Mrs. Rosemarie Josey. In attendance was Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, Minister Clay Sweeting; along with NACB president, Ms. Rebecca Johnson; Mrs. Prescola Rolle, Past President of the Nurses Association, and the LFC Programme’s Country Coordinator; and facilitators/ trainers for the year-long programme, which had been hosted for the first time in Eleuthera. Also in attendance
Leadership for Change Programme Graduates, with Facilitators, NACB Leaders, and MP Clay Sweeting. were nurse leaders in Eleuthera, Mrs. Freda Cooper - Nurse In-Charge (NOI) Palmetto Point Clinic, Mrs. Monique Cambridge NOI Hatchet Bay Clinic and Mrs. Deandra Frazier RM RN South Eleuthera District. Graduating nurse participants in
the LFC and ToT Programme included: Sindy Bullard, Bernadette Colebrook, Bianca Edwards, Cornell Johnson, Deshan Mortimer, and Behanker Rolle. In remarks during the ceremony, NACB president Ms. Rebecca Johnson stated that in recent years, the
World Health Organization and the International Council of Nurses had increased their call for governments, policy makers, and healthcare leaders P32 to invest in nurses if they wished to secure
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IDB reveals report on COVID-19’s economic impact on The Bahamas Prime Minister the Hon. Philip Davis commissioned a Disaster and Loss Assessment (DaLA) of the impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on The Bahamas, which was carried out by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC). The findings, outlined in a report, reveal billions of dollars in losses, many job losses and impact to the tourism industry. The Special Presentation of the report was presented on Wednesday, July 6th, 2022 at IDB House on East Bay Street. On hand were the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness; Wayde Watson, Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Economic Affairs; Colin Higgs, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Wellness, and officials of the IDB and
The Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness addressing a Special Presentation of the Disaster and Loss Assessment (DaLA) of the impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on The Bahamas.
ECLAC directly involved in the assessment and compiling the report. “As you are aware, this is a very important report for The Bahamas as it provides lessons from our collective response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Dr. Darville told the IDB, ECLAC, and other stakeholders present. Acknowledging that the pandemic continues to make its presence felt in The Bahamas and countries around the world, Dr. Darville however said he was not advocating lockdowns, but that collaboration remains a critical part of the country’s comprehensive response. “For the world and, no differently, for The Bahamas, COVID-19 shocked health systems and shattered economies,” he said, adding that “In The Bahamas it weighed heavily on a previously challenged educational system, strained our social safety net and slammed the country’s tourism industry.” The Bahamas’ COVID-19 story from health, social, and financial perspectives allows the country to reflect on, and leverage the lessons learned, Dr. Darville said. “These lesP31
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Summit of the Americas was worth attending By Sir Ronald Sanders (The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States of America 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)
As beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, so is success or failure measured by the beneficiary or the overlooked. Summits of the Americas, from the time they were initiated by the administration of the US in 1994, have overlooked the Caribbean. Not so, the 2022 Summit held in Los Angeles from June 8 to June 10. The 14 independent CARICOM countries, except for St Vincent and the Grenadines, went into this Summit with a greater measure of confidence in themselves and determination not to be overlooked or ignored. They
reaped the reward. At a private meeting on the eve of the Summit, attended by all but 4 of their number, the CARICOM Heads of Government decided that they would not be satisfied with a scheduled meeting only with US Vice President Kamala Harris. They wanted President Biden present. They made it clear that while no disrespect was meant toward the Vice President, the critical issues that confronted their countries required the presence of the President himself to make the necessary decisions. The President not only turned up, but he engaged fully with the CARICOM leaders and the President of the Dominican Republic. His engagement was so intense that the start of the first plenary session of the Summit, at which he was the first scheduled Speaker, had to be delayed while he satisfactorily concluded the discussion. Word spreading around the halls of the Los Angeles Conference Centre that the President was meeting Caribbean leaders, puzzled delegates from larger Latin American countries and created envy – the latter spoken in whispers. What caused this unscheduled meet-
ing to happen was a display of CARICOM unity that has only recently reignited in the Group. It was driven by the consensus on the way forward for CARICOM countries, fashioned two weeks before in Guyana at an Agricultural Investment Forum, led by Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali with the strong support of Barbados’ Mia Mottley, Trinidad and Tobago’s Keith Rowley, Antigua and Barbuda’s Gaston Browne, Belize’s Juan Briceño and Dominica’s Roosevelt Skerrit. At that Forum, the representative group of leaders had agreed on an actionable and time-bound plan regarding food and energy security, transportation of food within the region, and the removal of tariff barriers between CARICOM countries. They also agreed that, after initial hesitation by several of them, they would attend the Summit of the Americas not only to register their dissatisfaction with the US decision not to invite the leaders of Cuba and Venezuela particularly, but to press for US support for CARICOM’s action plan. In Los Angeles they went forward with that spirit of unity, meeting President Biden not with a begging bowl but with proposals showing what CARICOM countries could and would do, and how the US could help them gain access to international financing, including from the US itself. The exchange with Biden and Harris was courteous but candid, hard truths were exposed but with honesty and respect. US officials in the room might have been concerned about the readiness to act that President Biden displayed, but whatever bureaucratic delays might yet ensue, no one could doubt that action had been set in motion. Sceptics, including persons like me, who have attended many intergovernmental meetings where statements are made and eventually discarded, are tempted to see proof before accepting sincerity. But there was an electricity in the Biden encounter that appeared more credible; it generated a sense that something might actually come of it. The US President agreed with CARICOM leaders and the President of the Dominican Republic that they would establish three joint committees, which would be “focused, and time bound in order to urgently address challenges related to energy security, food security, and development/debt finance in the region”. Not five days had elapsed when, on June 14, the US government wrote to CARICOM Heads and the President
of the Dominican Republic, announcing its co-chairs of the Committees and its readiness to convene a meeting on June 20 “to discuss next steps towards achieving concrete, near-term progress on the designated topics”. This response has to be rated among the fastest that the Caribbean has had from the US concerning any matters that were initiated by regional countries. As I remarked in an interview, published in the Miami Herald on June 10: “This has been a breakthrough meeting for us. Biden has shown that he’s willing to move.” Movement, however, must not be mistaken for progress which will only be achieved if CARICOM countries and the Dominican Republic participate in these Committees with unity of purpose and with solid arguments that are backed by rigorous research. The persons, nominated by the Caribbean side should also be experienced and clear-eyed negotiators. The Caribbean urgently needs drastic change in the rules applied to access for concessionary financing by the International Financial Institutions over whose policies the US, as one of the largest and richest members, exercise influence. The region also requires change in lending policies to match loans to needs. One of the region’s biggest needs now is transportation to move food production within the region by sea and air, reducing dependence on foreign foods, strengthening agricultural sectors, and lowering the cost of food products. Hanging over every CARICOM country is also huge debt incurred to cope with external events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, high oil prices and increased costs of shipping, and natural disasters – hurricanes, floods and droughts. There is an urgency to secure debt reduction, debt forgiveness, and debt rescheduling. The countries of the region cannot repay debt, on current terms, and yet implement the plans that will make the difference to their survival and progress. No Summit of the Americas in the past could reasonably have been considered a success by the Caribbean, but at this Ninth Summit, the Caribbean by the harmony and determination of its leadership, achieved movement. Progress depends on maintaining both resolve and unity. Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com
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GOOD NEWS FOR HOME BUYERS The national budget for the new fiscal year is loaded with good news for aspiring first-time homeowners. For starters, the VAT exemption for first time buyers increases from $250,000 to $300,000. First time buyers acquiring a property valued at between $300,000 and $500,000 will now pay a VAT rate of only four percent, instead of 10 percent. It gets better. Buyers who build or renovate their first home will receive a refund of up to $40,000 in cash for any VAT paid for construction services or materials purchased, according to Prime Minister Phillip Davis. The occupancy certificate must be provided within eighteen months after building starts for the refund to kick in. It doesn’t end there. Mr. Davis announced a reduction of the duty on roofing materials, plumbing materials and electrical supplies. This, he said, will make it more affordable for everyone in the Bahamas to undertake any construction project.
This is great news. The tax breaks will hopefully encourage a whole new category of Bahamians to own their home. FOR NON-1st TIMERS There’s also good news for people who aren’t first time buyers. In their case, the VAT rate of 10 percent is reduced as follows: • 2.5 percent where the value of a property does not exceed $100,000 • Four percent for properties valued between 100,000 and $300,000 • Six percent on properties valued between $300,000 and $500,000. • Eight percent on properties falling in the $500,000 to $700,000 range. • Nine percent for properties valued between $700,000 and $1m. The VAT rate of 10 percent remains on properties valued at over $1 million. STIMULATING THE ECONOMY The government wants to make it possible for more Bahamians to qualify for a loan and to stimulate the broader economy through home ownership. The rippling effect of the real
Quotables Corner
QUOTE: “One of my guiding principles, one of my core beliefs, is that every Bahamian deserves to live a life of dignity and purpose. We know what we need to do to make that aspiration real. We need to create more opportunities, empower more people and we need to make sure people are educated and trained to take advantage of those opportunities. We need to strengthen tourism and – at the same time -- grow and diversify our economy. We need to create stronger ladders to success. We need more Bahamians to participate in our economy as owners. We need to mentor and hold up our young people. And not just our young people – one of the most inspiring developments over the very tough last few years was the number of Bahamians of all ages who started new small businesses during the pandemic - taking lemons and making lemonade. Our people are making the most of their talents. They say leaders inspire the people, but I think about it the other way around – the talent and tenacity of the Bahamian people are an enduring source of inspiration to me. So, perhaps the most important thing I can convey to the Bahamian people today is that we understand what you are going through. We see the obstacles in your path, and we are determined to help you knock them down so that you can reach your full potential. We will measure our success by measuring the impact we have on our people. When you focus on empowering people, everything else falls into place. A growing economy, fiscal stability, and social change – these are achieved by prioritizing people-driven policies.” (The Honourable Philip Davis, QC, MP Prime Minister and Minister of Finance during his 2022/2023 Budget ‘Wrap Up’ in the House of Assembly on Thursday, June 16th, 2022)
estate sector can’t be overstated.
Every time a property changes hands, there’s a possibility there will be new construction or renovations on existing buildings. Local communities always benefit, whether they are people in the building trade, hardware and supply stores, landscaping and pool services and so on. These people, in turn, have more money to spend on new hires and in restaurants and grocery stores, as an example. If you’ve been thinking about buying a home and you can, this is a great opportunity. BUILDING WEALTH When you own a home, you increase your chances of achieving financial stability and security over the long term by building equity in your property. Equity is the difference between the value of your home and the amount you owe. As you pay off your mortgage each month, you will build equity in your home. As your property hopefully increases in value, so does your equity, allowing you to sell for a profit later. You could use that extra money to reinvest in a new home or an Airbnb rental, for
By Mike Lightbourn Questions or comments? Contact me at info@cbbahamas.com Mike Lightbourn is president of Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty. example. Or you could convert your home to build wealth right away by renting a portion of it if it’s configured properly.
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FISHING IN THE SWAMP FOR A PRIZED CATCH How Not To Choose A Mate
Teri M. Bethel It seems like an odd title for an article. But it looks like what is happening these days as some people admit to thoughtlessly choosing their mates. Most people do not do this intentionally; they don’t know what to look for in a mate or how to recognize one of great character. Therefore, the default button has been clubs and the church for some. They do not realize that church is not a place where the perfect congregate. It is often the place where the broken go for restoration and fellowship with God. While the location may help to sieve some bugs from your grain, the criteria should be a little more stringent. Not from the perspective of judging anyone but think about it as an interview process. If hiring someone to work in your company, you would have a list of requirements to ensure they are qualified. One thing that is blatantly missing in
many fishing expeditions for a mate is moral character. Definitions.net defines it this way: “Moral character or character is an evaluation of a particular individual’s durable moral qualities. The concept of character can imply a variety of attributes including the existence or lack of virtues such as integrity, courage, fortitude, honesty, and loyalty, or good behaviors or habits.” The late Ernest Hemmingway, the famed author, says, “One’s judgment of right and wrong lies in his/ her moral values.” Then, some people are not as evil as they are decidedly ignorant. Ignorant, of course, means lacking knowledge; although many confuse it with being stupid, there is a vast difference. According to Mirriam Webster’s dictionary, a gracious definition of stupid means “given to unintelligent decisions or acts: acting in an unintelligent or careless manner.” This brings us to the point of fishing for a mate. A wisdom Proverb says... “In all your getting, get understanding.” So, before you cast that line in murky waters, you may want to hold on to it until you learn how to determine what a good mate looks like and what it takes to be one. Several women have shared that they believe they don’t do well with relationships; they call it “bad luck.” They claim to always come up with the short end of the deal, often subjecting both male and female children to molestation by warped biological and stepfathers and, in some cases, perverted stepmoms and aunties. After listening intently to several ladies, it was easy to see why some of them fell short with their findings. Their reasoning for marriage was faulty from the onset. They wanted a mate to complete them or make them happy; they never
considered going into a marriage whole or its effect on their children. For many, the criteria were primarily low and superficial. He had to be good-looking, dress well, have a paycheck, and drive a nice car. Very few people considered traits such as being employed and not given to hanging on the blocks smoking dope, gambling, and having no criminal involvement—I add this because this was a recurring trait for a few ladies who claimed to have found out their spouse were criminals or addicts after marriage. But if we flip that scenario to the positive, we can look at traits like honesty, diligence, loyalty, hard-working, honorable, respectful, loving, kind, generous, and patient. If you are serious about attracting such a man, have you asked yourself how you match up with the same list, or are your expectations one-sided? You see, it is easier to hook a man, as most would agree, than to maintain a healthy relationship with him. Grace had just exited her third marriage; she believed she didn’t have what it took to have a successful relationship. Grace was right, but not in the sense she thought. She was entering into marriages running on E with men who were on blocks needing a complete overhaul. Neither she nor her suiters had any knowledge of success principles in marriage. After short dating periods, they tied the knot, thinking that kinks would work themselves out. That’s like thinking the dirt on your kitchen floor will pick itself up and climb into the garbage. Order and success don’t happen by themselves. It would help if you got involved and applied the correct principles for this to happen. When Grace found out about the men she married, she was appalled. She blamed the fallout on the men every time, not realizing that she too played a part by not being prepared for marriage or getting to know her beau before becoming seriously involved.
Do women fall short too? You may be asking, what about the women? Is it always the men who miss the mark? Unfortunately, the same applies to men who fish in life’s swampy waters. There was Charlotte, who could barely read or write, but Jason claimed he fell in love with the voluptuous young lady who had never dated anyone with indoor plumbing. Despite his parent’s concern that their backgrounds were too diverse and they had nothing in common, his hormones told him otherwise. Several years into the marriage, Jason found out that Charlotte was ambitious in a twisted sort of way. Her eyes were set on having one of his parent’s condos as a part of her divorce settlement since they had been living in it. Then there was Douglas, who worked at sea; he took great care of his family. Each time he was on his way back, he would call his wife and let her know when to collect him. Having heard from his friends that his wife was two-timing him, Douglas had a friend pick him up instead. Just as they said, his wife, who never had to work a day in their marriage, was cavorting with another man who was driving his car. Douglas admitted that he fell in love with body parts—he didn’t know the woman he had married. He later found out that three of the five children they had were his. Whatever happened to getting to know people before falling for the superficial? That’s why in the old days, people courted. You see, if you wanted to get to know someone, you spent time with them, usually supervised—without physical entanglements. You questioned them as you spent time with them to determine if you had the same desires and beliefs. Did you want children, or did you prefer to have pets? Should you continue to work, or will the wife become a homemaker? What about bill paying and bank accounts—whose responsibility is it to pay the bills, and will you have a joint account? Will you be going to her church or yours? While courting, you find out all the details before tying the knot. That way, you minimize unnecessary
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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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disagreements and have your name scandalized in the court of public scrutiny. The standard approach is to check out the goods first; if you feel you were not compatible in bed, you move to the next candidate. Men then passed their sampling information to their friends, who stood in line for a free test drive which was discussed on the blocks. Sex nor love has ever been the glue that keeps a relationship together. It’s friendship and understanding based on relationship principles. Yet, year after year, wedding bells toll, and sometimes it’s for the third and fourth time without anyone taking stock or giving good thought to why the relationship did not work and what it takes to make it work. Do you want a spouse to escape your house or to be a lifetime project that keeps you on your knees? Or could you see yourself with a mate who shows you respect and genuinely cares for your wellbeing? Did you know that it’s not placing your basket too high? If you can’t see the potential and work towards it, you will have difficulty recognizing a good mate when they show up. Please find out how you can avoid swampy relationships by reading Before We Say… I Do, or to help fix it if you are already in one, get a copy of My Marriage Matters, Simple Keys to Enriching Or Restoring Your Marriage, by yours truly Teri Bethel. By investing in yourself, you will see yourself as valuable and will not just settle for a relationship with a swamp thing.
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CTI’s Agricultural Manager Receives IICA’s International Rurality Award ELEUTHERA, BAHAMAS – Deon Da Costa Gibson, the Agricultural, Extension & Livestock Manager at the Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) has received the “Soul of Rurality” award from the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA.) Identified as a “Leader of Rurality,” of the Americas, Gibson has received international recognition for fostering resilient agriculture, and promoting the increase of local food production and consumption to reduce the dependence on food imports in the country and region. IICA’s “Soul of Rurality” award serves to acknowledge and honour people in rural communities throughout the americas who are actively leaving their mark on the world, and making a difference in food and nutrition security, and the environmental sustainability of our planet. For most of his adult life, Gibson also known as “Gibby da Farma,” has been an advocate for the local farming community and has endea-
voured to share his time, passion, and expertise in assisting, educating, and training fellow farmers and sharing industry best practices. “I’m convinced that a country cannot guarantee national security nor access security in terms of health and employment, or even financial security, without first ensuring food security”, says Gibson. The premise is that increasing local food production and consumption will alleviate hefty spending on imports, create jobs, stimulate the economy, improve community health and support social development. Growing up in Nassau, Gibson had an affinity for visiting farms and observing livestock during his early childhood years. These experiences fueled his desire to participate in the industry and pursue tertiary education at the Agricultural University of P34
“Farm life”, is the ultimate life for Deon Gibson.
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Join Forces & Stand Together says PM to region
region’s urgent struggles are in great part from external causes. While highlighting the responsibility of each individual Head to make their countries stronger and more resilient, he emphasized that historical example still supported the fact that countries in the region can have greater impact if they would join forces and stand together. Pointing to one area yielding results from joint and persistent advocacy by the group, Davis said that work was currently underway in the global community on the development of a multidimensional vulnerability index - to better measure development needs and improve access to development assistance, which once completed would replace inadequate tools such as per capita GDP. Emphasizing the message of the need for regional unity, Davis continued, “Over the last few years, many of our countries have not fared well. Small ocean economies gain in negotiating strength and influence when we work effectively as one. It is no exaggeration to say that, if we do not stand together, we – each one of us -- is in danger of falling apart... What is standing in our way? What prevents us from moving closer to the ideals and aspirations of those who sat around the table 49 years ago before us, and dreamt of better futures for us all?... We find it too easy to walk away from settled agreements, to pursue the course which we think will help our narrow, national interest. Too many times, our countries have acquiesced to the pressures of larger, more developed states. Their approach of divide and conquer has hurt us all.” “Might we be deriving greater value from our tourism industries if we had continued to negotiate in concert with some of the large multinational corporations? And might we have fared better during the COVID-19 pandemic if we had acted together to secure vaccines and medicines?... If we are honest, too little has been built since 1966. We can do so much more – it’s never too late to make progress in earnest. The scaffolding for our regional architecture – the scaffolding for our future -- is in our hands.” Highlighting new leadership, and ideals for moving forward, PM Davis stated, “I note that we have important leadership in our CARICOM Secretariat, headed by a female for the first time in our history. Under the effective leadership of Secretary-General Barnett, let us harness the expertise of our Secretariat to move forward together. With our vision restored, and our courage firmly bound, we in this region can achieve great things. We can lift our people out of poverty! We can facilitate the generation of wealth and opportunity! And most of all, we can ensure our survival long into the future!... We can find the determination and renewed purpose to leave behind something better for those who will follow us. I certainly believe we can! We will be better together.”
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One Eleuthera Foundation and CTI Host Second Annual Learn-to-Swim Community Program The One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) in partnership with The Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) has launched its second Annual “Learn to Swim” program. With over 70 keen participants it promises to be both a critical learning experience and a splashing success. Started on June 20th, 2022, the 6-week program housed at the CTI campus in Rock Sound is free of charge and has enrolled residents ranging in age from 5 to 60 years, with the goal of provisioning them with life-saving swimming and water safety skills. Classes take place weekly from Monday to Thursday and are structured by age. Children’s classes begin at 9 am and finish at 12 noon followed by the adult and family sessions from 6 pm to 7 pm. The program is headed by an experienced team of new and returning local instructors including, Allison Dean, Kevia Knowles, Ariel Aranha and, Jaden Carey. This year the program also welcomed US-based volunteers, Alissa Magrum (Colin’s Hope), Ella Magrum-Stanley, Kim Shults (Swim With Kim), Peri Kowal and Emily Mayer. The group assisted with volunteer training and expanding the curriculum’s “Dry Land” water safety component. Targeted to children and parents these poolside lessons revolve around drowning prevention and water safety education. Delivered in fun and interactive ways the lessons reinforce the fundamentals to a younger
audience through engaging demonstrations, upbeat games, and exciting team exercises. Thanks to the partnership with “Colin’s Hope” and “Swim With Kim”, the program was gifted with supplies and equipment for participants including, life vests, swim caps, goggles, caps,tshirts, sunblock, and swimming safety games and activity sheets. “OEF’s Learn-to-Swim program is just one of the ways we’re utilizing our campus to meet a critical need and strengthen our community,” says Keyron Smith, CTI’s COO. “It also comes not a moment too soon because despite the Bahamas being surrounded by water and regularly impacted by high intensity hurricanes and sea surges, more than three-quarters of the population cannot swim and are unaware of water safety protocols.” An exciting first for the program took place on June 23rd when the students and team made waves by P31
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WSC Failure Prompts Detailing of Actions to Mitigate Future Supply Breaks The Water and Sewerage Corporation published a release aimed at its customers in Central Eleuthera on Sunday, July 10th, 2022, informing of a mechanical failure experienced on Sunday morning at the Naval Base Desalination Plant in Governor’s Harbour, which was expected to impact the water supply for at least 72 hours beginning on Sunday evening. The statement began: “The Corporation advises our valued customers in Central Eleuthera that we experienced a major mechanical failure at our Naval Base Desalination Plant earlier this morning, Sunday July 10th, 2022. Unfortunately, this failure has resulted in the loss of water production from one of the two desalination trains at the plant.” Explaining the current storage situation at the Plant, and how production failures impacted supply available for delivery, it continued, “Presently, cus-
tomers are being supplied utilizing the available storage and the water production from the remaining operational train. However, once the water storage is fully depleted, which we expect by this evening, residents in Central Eleuthera, particularly those at higher elevations and those at the ends of the system will experience no water supply and other residents will experience low water pressure as the remaining operational train water production is only approximately 55% of the system demand.” Working along with the Plant’s contractor, the Corporation disclosed that Monday evening, July 11th, 2022 was the earliest they could expect the failed train to be restored and returned to service. Commenting on their recent mandate to action critical water supply investments and to move ahead urgently without delay for Eleuthera,
they further detailed, “The Corporation recently executed a contract for a new 1,000,000 imperial gallon storage tank at our Naval Base Pumping Station and another 1,000,000 imperial gallon storage tank at our Bogue Pumping Station at a total contract value of $2,756,000. “The Corporation has paid the initial deposits for both tanks and we are pressing the Tank Contractor to move as quickly as possible, but these works will take several months to complete and commission. These tanks will increase the available water in storage that can be utilized to supply customers while major mechanical issues are addressed, thereby reducing the frequency of water supply interruptions.” With additional tanks addressing only the storage capacity woes in Eleuthera, WSC also pointed out their efforts to have production site management and incidence preparedness improved at desalination plants
on island, saying, “Separately, the Corporation is also working closely with our Desalination Contractor who has plants at Waterford, Tarpum Bay, Naval Base and Bogue, Eleuthera to identify all major mechanical failure risk components and to ensure that critical spares are readily available on island and adequate redundancies are in place. “The Corporation’s Board and Management met with the Desalination Contractor as late as 28th June, 2022 to express the frustrations of our customers and all stakeholders with these failures and to agree to a strategic plan for rigorous investments and major operational improvements at these plants.” Source: (WSC) July 10th, 2022
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Meet the Classes of 2022 for Senior High Schools Across the Eleuthera District
The graduating Class of 2022 from North Eleuthera High School, stand proudly in front of parents, family and friends, as they say goodbye to high school.
Senior High School graduation ceremonies took place across Eleuthera during the final half of June, completing a school year that again began virtually for public schools in Eleuthera during September of 2021, transitioning early in 2022 to a mixture of hybrid and full faceto-face modalities, to finish out the 2021-2022 school year. With very low case numbers of COVID-19 on the island, and many other indoor events seeing some return to normality, with the exception of masks still being worn and hand sanitizing encouraged, education officials took the ‘abundance of caution’ route, requiring evidence of a negative COVID-19 test, or proof of vaccination from all who would attend high school graduation ceremonies in The Eleutheras during the 2022 commencement season. Ceremonies from Spanish Wells and Harbour Island to Rock Sound all took place in indoor church venue settings this year, a departure from last year’s need for the creative use of gazebos, tents, school porches, and community parks, however, graduates were still allowed to enjoy the accolades of waiting audiences of family members and supportive friends, as they paraded into the various church venues for the
ceremonial receipt of their hard-earned Bahamas National High School Diplomas, and a plethora of other awards. Key words of ‘transformation’, ‘overcomers’, ‘resilience’, ‘inspired’, and ‘choices’ resounded from this year’s themes chosen for the various commencements. The 2022 round of high school graduations began on Tuesday, June 14th in Harbour Island at the Harbour Island All Age School (HIAAS) with twenty students participating in graduation or completion certificate exercises which began at 6pm that evening. Led by principal Kenneth Roberts, the theme in Harbour Island spoke to the graduates looking forward, with graduation as the beginning of the next chapter of their lives - saying, ‘The flight to success is now boarding’. Graduating at the top of the class at the Harbour Island All Age School as Valedictorian this year was Aloa Higgs, followed up by Salutatorian, Amelia Grant. Their peers also celebrating as graduates included; Sabria Davis, Trishell Major, Sa’de Oliver, Angelo Hudson, Asia Butler, Sarahann Davis, Lanay Woodside, James Eugene, Lorwendy Claude, Solomon Saunders, Walken Esty, Hope Bryan, Cleberson Pierre, Delvano Dieque, Alexander Whylly, Neil Quarrie, Jermaine Thomp-
son, and Lakeira Barry. Along with receiving their Bahamas National High School Diplomas, school-leaving certificates as well as trophies for requisite academic, sport and community service achievements - top performing graduates were also rewarded with various scholarship awards from corporate sponsors within the Harbour Island community. On Friday, June 17th, two ceremonies took place at opposite ends of the island. Beginning with Windermere High School (WHS) on Friday morning, three graduates walked the aisle at the Methodist Church at 10am in Savannah Sound, led by principal Myrtle McPhee and her compliment of staff, who welcomed supportive family members and friends. Top graduate of the class at Windermere High School as Valedictorian this year was Eric Carey, followed by Salutatorian, Cameron Rolle, and graduate Ashnah Culmer. Later the same Friday evening, North Eleuthera High School (NEHS) in Lower Bogue, with principal Chardel Brown-Gibson, celebrated commencement exercises which began at 6pm at Trinity City of Praise. A proud audience of family, friends and well-wishers filled the church for a capacity audience. Nineteen students took part in the graduation ceremony, with eight of
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Above (L-R): Ashnah Culmer, Cameron Rolle (Salutatorian), and Eric Carey (Valedictorian) - Windermere High School’s Class of 2022.
Above, Below and Right: Graduates from Central Eleuthera High School celebrate commencement at the Methodist Church in James’ Cistern.
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them receiving Bahamas National High School Diplomas. In their Co-Valedictorian speech, delivered together on-stage, Valedictorians Cilnus Meteze (National Honours Society Inductee) and Arianna Dean, expressed the bitter-sweet of saying goodbye to their high school days, as well as the excitement of saying hello to their future dreams, stating, “We are equipped and ready, because we are the resilient Class of 2022. With God on our side, who can stop us? For we have overcome so much.” Special guest speaker that evening was, Mitthayo Barry, an alumnus of the school, who emphasized the importance of graduates looking to elevate themselves to the next level, staying focused on their goals, and being thankful in all that they do. Valedictorians for North Eleuthera High School this year, Cilnus Meteze and Arianna
Dean were joined by their peers also celebrating as graduates including; Kendal Gibson Jr., Pedria Burrows, Ervensca Dany, Annechika Charles, Eric Hudson, and Antwone Neely, as well as completion certificate holders - Jadin Cash, Jonathan Deveaux, Claranique Gibson, Loven Jean-Francois, Don Johnson Jr., Hodnee Joseph Jr., Rony Laguerre, Arianna McCartney, April Neilly, Jayda Rolle, and Sheen Saunders. High school graduation for the Central Eleuthera High School (CEHS), with principal Kevin Hepburn, was held on Monday evening, June 20th, at the Methodist Church in James’ Cistern, getting started shortly after 6pm, under the theme, “Powered by dreams; Inspired to Action.” The audience of family, friends and well-wishers filled the large church - where the thirty-nine graduates were called out to take their celebratory entrance walk to receive their Bahamas National High School Diplomas and completion certificates. District Superintendent of Education, Mr. Michael CulP22 mer, who was in attendance at
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Above: Preston H. Albury High School’s Class of 2022 stand in front of Fountain of Life Kingdom Ministries church, ahead of their celebratory parade as new graduates. each of the graduation ceremonies, in his message to the students about to enter the world beyond high school he emphasized that life going forward was all about them becoming their best selves. “God has placed within each of us talents while making each one of us unique. Those hidden talents are of no benefit to you or the world unless you develop and use them... I want each of you to see today not as an end, but as a new beginning.” Valedictorian this year for the Central Eleuthera High School was, Vonzell Fox. She was joined at the top of the class by Co-Salutatorians, Wallace Sineus, Jr. and Jahzara Taylor. Recipients of special Leadership Excellence Awards were graduates, Ricardo Belle, and Savannah Munroe. Their peers also celebrating as graduates included; Torii Knowles, Tonique Cash, Kiara Farquharson, Daniella Canigon, Rosemellie Clofa, Valiyah Fernander, Christian Carey, Philena Culmer, Joell Gibson, Addis Johnson, Samuel Hanna, Enoch Rolle, Kaitya Jean, Rolaysia Maycock, Toccara Sands, Keavano Harris, Shammah Thompson, Wayne Weinburger, Alyssa Rolle, Jadon Lightbourne, Marcus Saintilmond, Angelisha Bethel, Jamae hanna, Omarion Davis, Camia Bethel, Lavette Cartwright, Ronel Francis, Serenald Meme, Tahj Thomas, Wisca Julien, Shaki Pinder, Tyasha johnson, Zion Bain, Alaycia Bethel, Ranique Kemp, Jermaine Hall, Robin Munroe, Juliassa Pierre, Tyese Pinder, and Ragia McQueen. Preston H. Albury High School’s (PHAHS) graduation service, under the theme, “Transforming Adversities Into Opportunities”, with new principal Ms. Sharon Scott, took place at Fountain of Life Kingdom Ministries in Rock Sound at 10am on Tuesday morning, June 21st, 2022. Thirty-seven graduates marked the successful end of high school, and the beginning of their foray into young adulthood. Principal Scott in her message to the PHAHS graduates, congratulated them for having successfully reached this milestone, and encouraged them to make good decisions and to continue to dream, saying, “Dream, pen your dreams, as you accomplish each dream, set new goals and do your best to achieve them. Remember that there is no limit to what you can do, if you continue to believe in yourself.” Graduating at the top of the class at the Preston Albury High School as Valedictorian this year was Shawnice Lightbourne,
Above (L-R): Sheanna Hall (co-Salutatorian), Shawnice Lightbourne (Valedictorian), and Shicara Knowles (coSalutatorian) smile proudly as the top performers of their graduating class at Preston H. Albury High School.
Left: A happy and proud group of Preston H. Albury graduates as they complete their high school careers and look forward to their next steps as young adults.
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Above: Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School’s Class of 2022 standing with District Superintendent of Education, Mr. Michael Culmer (far left), and their Principal, Mrs. Navidia Mills.
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followed up by co-Salutatorians, Sheanna Hall and Shicara Knowles. Their peers also celebrating as honours graduates included; Micquel Cartwright, Jodi Oldham, Vonyce Munnings, and Deonique Ambrister. Other graduates were: Anaya Coleby, Kailey Culmer, Tearra Davis, Dennis Delancy, Keneisha Deveaux, Wayne Douglas, Jasmine Falconer, Ethan Forbes, Sanvano Francis, Donnay Hall, Jean Hall, Travon Horton, Kristen Ingraham, Ameya Johnson, Jadon Johnson, Geniqua Kemp, Lael Knowles, Shicardo Knowles, Javin Leary, Rhandi Mackey, Vinteerie Murphy, Adrienne Poitier, Cohan Stubbs, Kevaughn Stubbs, Clement Thompson, Malaya Thompson, Antonique Wallace, Ceirra Ward, Alvanno Winder, and Alex Young. The final high school commencement for Eleuthera’s Class of 2022 took place at the Methodist Church in Spanish Wells, held on Wednesday evening, June 22nd, beginning at 6pm sharp, showcasing nine Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School (SGPAAS) graduates, with principal Navidia Mills, and supporting family and friend groupings sitting together, ready to cheer on their student. Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs - Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera - as well as a former graduate of the Spanish Wells All Age School twelve years ago, the Hon. Clay Sweeting was the special guest speaker on the evening. He expounded on the evening’s theme of, “We Are Overcomers”, sharing a bit of his own personal experience and his ‘bumpy’ journey towards his political career by overcoming challenges and not giving up on his dreams. Graduating at the top of the class at the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School as Valedictorian this year was Roan Ricks, followed by Salutatorian, Caurthney Noel. Their peers also celebrating as graduates included; Jacob Cates, Rasia Russell, Diamond Roberts, Kervinson Julien, Nathan Sweeting, Shantal Oscar, and Evan Sweeting.
Above: Salutatorian of Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School’s (SGPAAS) Class of 2022 - Caurthney Noel being warmly embraced by her parents at the SGPAAS graduation ceremony, hosted at the Methodist Church in Spanish Wells on Wednesday, June 22nd.
Right: Top of their Class of 2022 at the Harbour Island All Age School, Valedictorian - Aloa Higgs (left), and Salutatorian - Amelia Grant (right) take a moment together during the celebration of commencement on Tuesday, June 14th, at the Methodist Church in Harbour Island.
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June/July, 2022
CEI: 2022 Hurricane Forecast for The Bahamas By Marjahn Finlayson, Cape Eleuthera Institute
June marks the official start of hurricane season in the tropical North Atlantic and hurricane forecasters are predicting above-average activity in the North Atlantic Basin this year. Current predictions call for 20 named storms, 10 hurricanes and 5 major hurricanes (Category 3+) over the season, with a 65% chance that a storm will pass over The Caribbean, not including The Bahamas. Increases in sea surface temperatures (SSTs), decreased sea level pressure (SLP) and El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) are all factors that will sustain a higher-than-normal Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) in the North Atlantic. Compared to other Caribbean nations (Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago and Puerto Rico), The Bahamas has historically experienced the highTable 1 - Table 1 shows TC Impact Probabilities from Colorado State University for 2022 Hurricane Season, which used NOAA’s Historical Hurricane Tracks website and selected all named storms, hurricanes and major hurricanes that have been tracked within 50 miles of each landmass from 1880 to 2020. They fitted the observed frequency of storms within 50 miles of each landmass using a Poisson distribution to calculate the climatological odds of one or more events within 50 miles.
est number of tropical cyclones, which includes major hurricanes. In the North Atlantic Ocean, tropical storms have four main genesis regions: The Bahamas, the eastern MDR (originates off the African coast near the Cape Verde Islands), the Gulf of Mexico and the Southern or Western Caribbean Sea (Figure 1). Storms are classified by types based on their genesis locations: Bahamas Busters, Cape Verde types, Gulf of Mexico types and Southern/Western Caribbean types, respectively. Cyclones generated in these regions all travel to The Bahamas, but this is not true for other Caribbean nations. The Bahamas is more likely to experience hurricanes this year than other regions based on its proximity to Florida and the Caribbean (Table 2), both of which chances of being hit by a major hurricane this year have increased. This could be related to increased sea-surface temperatures in the region and weaker vertical wind shear (VWS) as a result of the La Niña event this year. Increased sea-surface temperatures can act as a fuel for convective activity in tropical cyclones which can increase energy and therefore intensity. Low sea level pressure is associated with weaker trade winds, and weaker vertical wind shear, which can suppress cyclone development, so the weaker the VWS is, the more intense storms will likely be. The equatorial Pacific Ocean has been in a negative phase of ENSO, La Niña, since last July. This means that surface water in the equatorial Pacific is cooler than average. In
the Pacific, La Niña strengthens trade winds but weakens them in the Atlantic Ocean, which in turn weakens VWS. It also makes the region a little more susceptible to increased humidity and thunderstorm activity. Great conditions for tropical cyclone development! Trends in present data show that as the Atlantic continues to a more La Niña consistent state we will likely experience more hurricanes in the North Atlantic Ocean. At present, La Niña is likely to continue until the end of the year, but it is likely to decrease from July to September and increase slightly after. In the longer term we will also see the effect of climate change on tropical cyclone intensity. Globally, we expect that with increased surface temperatures and oceanic heat content that storms will become more intense and have more overall precipitation. There may also be evidence of tropical cyclones traveling at slower speeds that may increase rainfall on land. With increased sea levels, more rain and slower cyclone translational speeds, this could be a recipe for more disasters as there will be higher levels of storm surge and flooding. By comparing 2000-2010 to 2011-2021 changes in the North Atlantic cyclogenesis reasons, we can establish decadal climate changes that may be contributors to more active storm seasons in the next ten years. These changes could infer that there has been an increase in convection as the temperature has increased in these areas where storms generate. In the long
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term, we may see more active storms become the norm especially if the basic state of the equatorial Pacific settles into a more La Niñalike state. According to the forecast by the Colorado State University TC research group (Table 1), The Bahamas is 96% likely to be impacted by a named storm (tropical storm to major hurricane) this season. There is a 77% chance that the storm will be a hurricane and a 50% chance that it will be a major hurricane. For other countries and regions near The Bahamas, the chances of impact are relatively lower (except for Mexico, which is also impacted by storms from the East Pacific and has a larger surface area than The Bahamas). With the changes in environmental factors, such as ENSO, SST and mid-tropospheric humidity, The Bahamas will need to consider how much damage it will likely undergo this season as TCs will likely intensify quickly this season. Climate modeling for small island developing states (SIDS) and smaller gridded regions is a difficult feat for numerical dynamic modeling because of the size of grids in models and the resolution required to properly model all Earth’s processes. One of the difficulties in properly modeling hurricane activity is that there is a missing component of ocean characteristics that contribute to cyclone development and intensification. The sea glider project at the Island School’s Cape Eleuthera Institute aims to help remediate this by using autonomous drones to measure ocean temperature and salinity, partially when hurricanes travel over them. The gliders that are deployed in a given season will send back observations in real-time via satellite connection that are used to better represent the ocean conditions in NOAA’s operational hurricane models. Ideally, gliders can provide temperature and salinity profiles down to 1000m when there is no hurricane activity and 500m when a hurricane travels over them. This data is sent to the NOAA National Hurricane Center to improve hurricane prediction accuracy in real-time, especially for major hurricanes. By providing this data, we can help save lives with ways to better predict rapid cyclone intensification. ---Note: The ACE index for a hurricane season is calculated by adding all values for named storms and this total accounts for cyclone intensity, lifetime and frequency.
Figure 1 - Figure 1 shows the total number of TCs that passed over The Bahamas, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago (T&T) and Puerto Rico since 1985. Light orange represents tropical storms and depressions, pink shows categories 1 and 2 hurricanes, and maroon represents major hurricanes (Categories 3 - 5). Data extracted from NOAA NHC Historical tracks.
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Bahamas Primary School Student of the Year
Top Eleuthera Primary Students Recognized at the 26th Annual Bahamas Primary School Student of The Year Awards Eleven high-achieving student nominees from primary schools throughout the Eleuthera District, were selected this year to participate in the 26th Annual Primary School Student of the Year 2022 Awards ceremony. The Bahamas Primary School Student of the Year Foundation (BPSSYF) hosted their 2022 Awards Ceremony on Saturday, June 11th. The event honoured 102 students from public and private schools across New Providence, Grand Bahama and the Family Islands. Thanks to the generous support of Corporate and Individual Donors, the primary school student nominees shared $205,000.00 in scholarships and over $50,000.00 in prizes, with every student nominee receiving a minimum of a $1,000.00 scholarship. Already winners, chosen as the top all around student in both academics and extracurricular
activities in their schools on the island, each of the eleven students who participated represented as some of the best and brightest sixth graders within The Eleutheras. Commenting on its commitment to recognizing the best as Bahamian students complete primary school, BPSSYF highlighted that since The Bahamas experienced the beginning of the pandemic in 2020, and although faced with many challenges, the organization still held Award Ceremonies in 2020 (Virtual Ceremony with the Top 5 Students in attendance), in 2021 (Hybrid Ceremony with the Top 30 Students in attendance and a Drive by Celebration for all of the 2021 Nominees), and this year 2022 - an In-Person Ceremony with all of the 102 Nominees invited to participate. The eleven top Eleutheran primary school nominees, included: Donovan Woods Jr. of Rock Sound Primary School; Neil Thompson Jr. of Deep
Creek Primary School; Cayden Horton of Wemyss Bight Primary School; Zion Albury of Gregory Town Primary School; Mya Johnson of Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School; Oneilla Levy of Emily G. Petty Primary School; Almitra Rolle-Meeres of P.A. Gibson Primary School; Nevaeh Bedford of Laura L. Anderson Primary School; Kevin Culmer of Tarpum Bay Primary School; Charity Knowles of Emma E. Cooper Primary School; and Emma Moss of Harbour Island All Age School.
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This 5th Grader Has Raised $1,200.00 for Cancer Omari Rolle’s Coins for Cancer Drive Omari Rolle, a fifth grader at Emma E. Cooper Primary School in Palmetto Point Eleuthera, recently made a second donation to the Cancer Society in the amount of $700 from his ongoing Coins for Cancer drive. Most of the funds were raised at school as he placed jars in each classroom. The incentive, which was a pizza party for the class who raised the most funds, proved successful as his class alone raised over $300 and the remainder of the school raised more than $300 as well. The winning grade five class celebrated with their pizza party, shortly after the Easter Break 2022. To date, Omari has donated $1200 to honour family members who have passed from cancer. Omari invites interested members of the public to be a part of Coins for Cancer. To reach out, contact the Emma E. Cooper Primary School or send an email to: omarirolle@gmail.com.
The Eleutheran
Summer Swimmers Advised of Jellyfish & Sea Lice Risks The Bahamas Ministry of Health and Wellness on June 27th, 2022 published an advisory on the occurrence of sea lice and jellyfish during the summer months, providing swimmers with information on ways of avoiding bites, treatment and when medical attention should be sought. The statement read: “The Ministry of Health and Wellness wishes to advise the public of the occurrence of sea lice and jellyfish bites commonly seen during the period of March to August. Sea lice are the larvae of jellyfish which float on the sea surface but are barely visible to the human eye. “Skin contact with sea lice often results in dermatitis or sea bathers’ eruption which happens because the microscopic creatures become entrapped in swimwear. The eruptions produce a pricky sensation which progresses into a bumpy red rash noticeable between 4 to 24 hours following exposure. Lesions from the skin rash can last up to two weeks. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, fever (usually 101 F) muscle spasms, joint pains and difficulty sleeping. “Treatment for sea bathers’ eruption include antihistamines such as diphenhydramine or Benadryl and corticosteroid creams such as Hydrocortisone 0.5% or 1%. Bathing in colloidal oatmeal preparations and applying calamine lotion to the rash may provide comfort. Persons should avoid scratching or scrapping the affected area as it may cause further skin damage. In severe cases, epinephrine and other intramuscular steroids may be required. “Beach-goers should: be aware of their individual risk, especially if they have strong allergic reactions; avoid wearing t-shirts and one-piece swimsuits while swimming; and immediately after swimming change out of swimwear. Swimwear should be washed in detergent and placed in a dryer as reoccurrence of symptoms may present when wearing a swimsuit that was airdried. “Persons who suspect that they have been affected by sea lice and are noticing other symptoms along with the rash should seek medical attention.” Source:BIS, June 27th, 2022
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Bahamian Delegation Lobby US Congress and Senate for Appropriation of Financial Assistance for Hurricane Restoration and Mitigation On Monday and Tuesday, June 12th and 13th 2022, a Bahamian ministerial delegation comprising Minister of Works & Utilities Alfred M. Sears, QC, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Public Service, Frederick Mitchell, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Ryan Pinder, Ambassador Wendall Jones and their respective technical and support staff met with various US Government officials in Washington, D.C. The purpose of these meetings was to lobby for financial assistance from the United States Government to support Hurricane Dorian restoration projects in Abaco and Grand Bahama as well as infrastructural improvement around the AUTEC Base in Andros. Attending these meetings were United States Senators, Congresspersons and their respective Staff members including:1. Senator Brian Schatz (D - HI), Member of Appropriations Subcommittees on Defense, and Military Construction; Member of the For-
Pictured left to right: Ambassador Wendall Jones, Congressman Gregory Meeks, Jim Davis, Minister Alfred Sears and Attorney General Leo Ryan Pinder eign Relations Subcommittee on State Department and USAID Management 2. Senator Marco Rubio (R - FL), Vice Chairman of Select Committee on Intelligence, Member of Appropriations Subcommittees on Military Construction and State and Foreign Operations; Ranking Member on Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere 3. Senator Jon Tester (D - MT), Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense; Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction 4. Congressman Mike Waltz (R - FL), Member of the House Armed Services Committee 5. Congressman John Rutherford (R - FL), Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction 6. Congresswoman Kathy Castor (D - FL), Chair of the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis 7. Congresswoman Lois Frankel (D - FL), Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations 8. Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D - CA), Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations
Minister Frederick Mitchell, Congresswoman Kathy Castor and Minister Alfred Sears
9. Senator Bill Hagerty (R - TN), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on State Department and USAID Management; Member of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere; Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on
Military Construction and State and Foreign Operations 10. Congressman Ken Calvert (R - CA), Ranking Member of Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense 11. Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D - MN), Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense 12. Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D FL), Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction 13. Congressman Gregory Meeks (D - NY), Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee 14. Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D - CA), Chair of the House Financial Services Committee This trip was made pursuant to a Cabinet decision that the Government, in partnership with a local Bahamian foundation, engaged the US law firm of Holland & Knight to lobby the United States Government for financial assistance to support hurricane restoration and mitigation in The Bahamas. The delegation thanked the Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas for his commitment and continued support of this engagement. The Government of the Bahamas also expressed it remains committed to its partnership with the United States through its bilateral agreements, inter-locking borders and shared values. The delegation returned to The Bahamas on Wednesday, June 14th, 2022.
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OEF/CTI Swimming lessons
taking part in the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™. This annual event raises awareness worldwide surrounding drowning and drowning prevention. Team WLSL currently holds the Guinness world record for the single largest simultaneous swimming lesson. The record-achieving event was successfully held in 2014 with over 20 participating countries and 36,564 swimmers. Drowning incidents are largely preventable and still, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) are the 3rd leading cause of unintentional injury death worldwide. Basic water safety and swimming lessons such as those offered through OEF’s Learn-to-Swim program can save precious lives every year, and help children and adults to safely enjoy our beautiful beaches and natural
Above: Learn-to-Swim participants and instructors lined up poolside.
Above: One of the Learn-toSwim participants wearing donated swim cap and goggles.
aquatic resources. “Water safety education is paramount to keeping children safe around sources of water. Drowning is silent and can happen in as little as 30 seconds. It can happen on beaches, in coastal waters, blue holes and pools, but just as readily in bathtubs, open wells, and even household buckets,” explains Yolanda Pawar, Chief Communications Officer at OEF. “Increasing access to water survival skills and drowning prevention education within our community is an ongoing goal for us.” OEF’s Learn to Swim sessions will wrap up on July 28th but organizers are already starting the preliminary planning for next year’s program and the exciting new developments in the pipeline. To find out how you can support this program, volunteer or donate resources email: info@oneeleuthera.org
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The Eleutheran
IDB assesses COVID-19 impact on The Bahamas
sons will help us to take intentional action now to strengthen preparation and also quicken our mitigation measures to meet and withstand unknown, unseen, and unimaginable threats,” he said. Even without the DaLA, Dr. Darville said all only need to be socially aware to see the dire situation that plagued The Bahamas. He said that on coming to office, the Davis Administration took the policy decision to strike a delicate balance between preserving life and safeguarding the economy by implementing innovative strategies to protect the health of the public. “Our policy must be informed by evidence and this evidence is provided by the DaLA, which
was prepared using national data available up to early February 2022,” he said. The report estimates the total cost of the impacts and effects of COVID-19 on The Bahamas at $9.5 billion, with tens of thousands of job losses and long-lasting effects on the country’s tourism sector. The report also states that the economy is expected to return to its pre-pandemic level only by 2024, mainly because of the gradual pace of recovery in the tourism sector and the long-lasting effects of COVID-19 in this sector. “Collaboration on these types of reports allows us to create templates that guide our future responses. It is against this backdrop that I wish to say how grateful I am to the Inter-American
Development Bank (IDB) and Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) for their partnership in preparing and producing this DaLA which goes a long way in documenting the COVID-19 pandemic experience in The Bahamas,” Dr Darville said. He also thanked the IDB for its loan facility of some $65 million in response to the COVID-19 impact on health infrastructure on the Family Islands. “This loan facility is so vital to our healthcare system,” he said. Source:Bahamas Information Services July 6th, 2022 Written By: Lindsay Thompson
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LFC Programme participants with their project presentations. (L-R): Cornell Johnson, Deshan Mortimer, Sindy Bullard, Bianca Edwards, Bernadette Colebrook, and Behanker Rolle.
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NURSES Receive Training
global health and strengthen healthcare delivery systems. “So, as the president of the Nurses’ Association of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, I am delighted to welcome you all here today to witness that the NACB has accepted the challenge to invest in nurses and for the very first time has brought the Leadership for Change (LFC) Programme to the island of Eleuthera.” Minister Clay Sweeting congratulated the graduates as he expressed how he and others on the island depend heavily on the nurses to care for their loved ones. He was happy to mention the near-term plans for the much needed medical facilities on the island. Keynote speaker on the morning was Pastor Diallo Ingraham, who charged the graduates with three I’s. Firstly, influence of self; that is to encourage yourself, and first make that direct inner connection. Next, was inclusion of others in the way forward, as no one is able to do great work by themselves. Lastly, was information technology to utilize the invisible realm to improve healthcare throughout the island and the country. In a charge to the new ‘Nursing Leaders’ Mrs. Prescola, Past President of the Nurses Association, and the LFC Programme’s Country Coordinator told the graduates that the enhanced leadership skills coming out of the program, such as problem solving, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, negotiation and decision-making abilities will help them successfully lead change to improve health services and outcomes at the local, national, regional and international levels. She pointed out that the International Council of Nurses (ICN) theme for the year is “Nurses - A voice to lead: Invest in Nursing and respect Rights to Secure Global Health” is most timely. She stressed to the new leaders that they should let their voices be heard wherever they are for the bet-
terment of the profession. As internationally prepared leaders she assured the graduates that they must know that they belong to whatever space they find themselves in and that they bring value to that space. Whatever situation they are in their voices are important and are needed not only for the safe and effective care of their clients but their voices are valuable to the advancement of the nursing profession. Mrs. Rolle admonished them that their voices must now begin to help shape policies about how healthcare should be given, how nursing should and must change and most importantly their voices must be used to help develop best-case scenarios and algorithms for improvement in their client’s lives while build health capacity of the country. She encouraged them that as they take on more leadership roles they must commit to mentoring others, and always strive to be their authentic selves. She congratulated them on the innovative stellar change projects that they produced and advised that the impact will be felt not only in Eleuthera but throughout the Bahamas. She then charged them to go out and light the world around them. Ms. Cornell Johnson RN and chairperson for NACB - Eleuthera branch gave the graduate’s response for LFC and ToT programs. She reflected on each graduate’s view of the program and how it had inspired and greatly impacted on their lives. She shared, “This program has cultivated both personal and professional growth and development. Nurses on all levels should take the opportunity to enroll in this program which will empower them and promote knowledge and resources to build up and sustain the high standards of our nursing profession. As nurse leaders we are never in competition with each other but rather we are stronger and more effective when we complement each other.
“LFC encourages us as Nurse Leaders to be visionaries and have the courage and creativity to make profound impact in nursing that improves our communities. The ICN maintains a standard of nursing to adjust to a changing society. Therefore, we are privileged to have an opportunity to be a part of and are now able to effectively articulate within the global nursing leadership community. We gained a new perspective as we accepted the charge to build up the nursing profession. It is now our responsibility to empower and encourage other nurses in the profession to join the NACB and to enroll in the LFC program, because your mindset will never be the same.” During the course of the programme, the graduates were involved in completing a significant project within their communities that would elevate both nursing and their level of service. Nurse Johnson, both a graduate on the day, and NACB chairperson of the Eleuthera branch, commented on the completed projects, saying, “The projects coming from this training will each have a significant impact on our profession and society. The first one by Sindy Bullard, deals with addressing policy that restricts visitation of parents to infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit at the Princess Margaret Hospital. The other by Cornell Johnson and Deshan Mortimer was creating a handbook to serve as a resource for nurses experiencing negative psychological affects while working during a crisis. The third by Bianca Edwards, Behanker Rolle, and Bernadette Colebrook was development of a mobile app to connect with and monitor clients with chronic non-communicable diseases to promote regimen adherence.”
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Picture this...
The Eleutheran
Former Tourism Manager in Eleuthera, Jacqueline Gibson, Honoured
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CALENDAR 2022
The residents of Hatchet Bay Eleuthera come together to raise funds to assist the settlement with upgrades and community activities for the residents. (Contact: Ms. Melissa Dean, melissadean36@hotmail.com, (242) 551-0538)
•
Back to The Bay (July 29th August 2nd)
The Tarpum Bay festival is a way to encourage descendants to come together and have an enjoyable time with family, friends, and visitors in the area. There is live entertainment, junkanoo rush-outs, and delicious native dishes and items on sale. (Contact: Mr. Ronald Carey, (242) 819-8718; Ms. Shakera Gardiner, (242) 470-2342 or shakeragardiner_37@hotmail.com)
A retirement banquet was hosted for former Eleuthera Tourism Manager, Ms. Jacqueline Gibson on Saturday, June 18th, 2022, at the Unique Village restaurant in Palmetto Point. Ms. Gibson, surrounded by close-knit colleagues, family and friends - from as far away as Jensen Beach, Florida - was plied with gifts and accolades of achievements, exceptional service and countless good memories during her time with Tourism.
Above: Ms. Jacqueline Gibson (center) stands with a close circle of her friends, and her brother, Evan (third from left). Below: Ms. Gibson receives a Pineapple of Light from her friends out of Jensen Beach, Florida, who flew in to be with her.
Goombay Summer Festival (August 27th)
This event allows locals and visitors to enjoy a cultural experience of Eleuthera. People can enjoy mouth-watering dishes, beverages, and dance to local rake and scrape music. There are also local artists and artisans showing their handmade products. (Contact: Eleuthera Tourist Office, Ms. Glenda Johnson-Ingraham, gjjingraham@bahamas.com, (242) 332-2868)
•
Author of “The Flamingo Incident” Delivers Gift Eleutheran author, Mr. Cladwell Farrington, of Hatchet Bay, Central Eleuthera who penned “The Flamingo Incident”, a book which reveals his personal experience aboard the Bahamas Defence Force’s HMBS Flamingo during its clash with Cuban fighter jets, made a personal delivery to the Central Eleuthera High School on Friday morning, June 17th, 2022. He delivered, on behalf of Commodore Raymond King of the Bahamas Defence Force a total of 50 copies of “The Flamingo Incident”, as a special gift to the high school in Palmetto Point. The presentation was made to Senior Mistress, Mrs. Yoshan Gibson-Charlton, who accepted on behalf of the school. Mr. Farrington was also accompanied by Mrs. Stella Randall of Hatchet Bay. Mrs. Charlton, in response to the gift, expressed the school’s gratitude, and said, “We appreciate this ... and we know that our students will use this as this was a momentous occasion in Bahamian history. So, for them it will be even better to read this and follow the personal journey of our hero.”
Above (L-R): Mrs. Stella Randall, Mr. Cladwell Farrington, and Mrs. Yoshan Charlton.
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North Eleuthera and Harbour Island Regatta (October 7th - 11th)
A domestic tourism event that attracts thousands for an authentic out-island experience. (Contact: Ministry of Tourism, Harbour Island, (242) 333-2621)
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Wemyss Bight Homecoming Festival (October 8th - 10th)
During this time, Bahamians and visitors come together and have a fun-filled time. There are a variety of dishes, desserts, and beverages to choose from. Lots of games and entertainment for everyone. (Contact: Eleuthera Tourist Office, Ms. Glenda Johnson-Ingraham, gjjingraham@bahamas.com, (242) 332-2868)
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June/July, 2022 being and food sustainability but also plays a leading role in agriculture-based technology and innovation, food safety and quality, rural development, and resource management. This award affirms their commitment to celebrating stalwarts like Gibson who seek to bring greater focus to agricultural education, collaboration and cooperation within their communities. The “Buy Fresh, Buy Local, Buy Bahamian” campaign launched by IICA over a decade ago continues today with Gibson as one of its prominent faces and ambassadors. It’s an initiative he endorses maintaining the idea that any country, no matter how small, has the capacity to produce its own food if the correct polices and mandates are put in place regarding production and consumption of local foods, and there’s buy in from the private sector.
Above: Ensuring the health of the hives ensures the bees can thrive, contribute to the ecosystem and produce quality honey. Havana, Cuba, and later Sterling College in Craftsbury, Vermont, a school specializing in environmental studies and sustainable agriculture.
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en local farmers and farming initiatives. A good deal of Gibson’s work at CTI focuses on empowering and providing technical support
Award for CTI’s Agri Manager
“Many would ask me why I wanted to study agriculture given the many difficulties facing the activity,” he explains, “and I would say that when you can prepare an omelet with the eggs you collected or when you harvest with your own hands the tomatoes or peppers you are going to eat, that is when you begin to see agriculture in a different light.” Gibson is also the proprietor of “Gibby da Farma Backyard Gardens and Agricultural Consultancy,” a company that advises small food production enterprises. He is a regular contributor on national radio shows, forums, and programs where he represents the views and interests of the local farming community and uses his personal social media platforms to promote his work. In 2019, Gibson joined the CTI team after transplanting from Abaco in the wake of Hurricane Dorian. Seeing first-hand the impact a natural disaster can have on the food supply and livelihoods of people in rural communities, he aligned his work with CTI’s mission to develop and promote sustainable farming, increase food security, and strength-
to local farmers, as well as collaborating with high schools across Eleuthera to provide ongoing agricultural education. He firmly believes in educating the youth on the significance of agriculture and attracting them to the sector, recognizing the importance of their role in the longevity of any agricultural sustainability plan. “Without farming and farmers,” he notes, “humanity would not survive. The best way to involve young people in farming is to teach them to have patience to wait for harvest and to show them the fruit of their work”. On the CTI farm, Gibson manages egg production for over one hundred chickens, oversees the apiary, and runs a monthly farmer’s market. Here community farmers and growers are invited to promote and sell their crops and value-added products. Getting nutritious, home-grown produce from the ground to the tables of those who live in the surrounding communities while increasing the profitability of local farmers is a win-win for him. IICA specializes in agricultural development among its member states with a focus on rural well-
Introducing Egg production is one of Deon’s additions to the CTI farm.
Gibson sees agriculture as a tool for national development and recognizes the important role food security and food sovereignty plays in the stability of a country’s economy and future. This month, CTI and the One Eleuthera Foundation will break new ground with the highly anticipated first planting of its 1.1-acre, revolutionary, retractable grow house. This undertaking will position the farm to substantially increase the island’s food production and expand farmer training opportunities. The facility will introduce year-round growing of leafy greens and other varieties of produce in a controlled environment, protected from extreme climatic conditions. It’s a major project that Gibson looks forward to supporting, one that can restore Eleuthera’s rich and robust farming legacy while providing local communities with greater access to the nutritious, responsibly grown food they deserve.
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Comprehensive tourism initiatives outlined in 2022-23 Budget by the Deputy PM Council. This has already reaped significant results,” he said. The deputy prime minister also revealed that the transformation of the Bahamas Investment Authority has begun, and the finished product will be called InvestBahamas. It will be launched in September 2022. “I want the Bahamian people to remember that this Budget is about relief, but it also about growth. It’s about economic growth. It’s about inspiring confidence and renewing optimism.
The Hon I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism Investment and Aviation presents his 2022-23 Budget presentation in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, June 15th, 2022. A total of $2.5 billion in investments, infrastructural upgrades to Family Island airports, and increase in visitor arrivals were outlined by the Hon. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation in his 2022-23 Budget presentation. He made contribution to the debate in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, June 15th, 2022. “In terms of investment, which goes hand-in-hand with tourism, we have already restructured the National Economic
“Growing our economy, growing tourism, growing investments, growing aviation and growing revenues so that we can meet our commitments and brace ourselves for future shocks and future possibilities,” he said. The cruise market is also a critical focus for the ministry, the deputy prime minister said. “When the new cruise port in Nassau is complete, we will be able to host six of the world’s largest ships at a time at a world-class port,” he added. According to the deputy prime minister, more than $300 million in upgrades are on tap, and will be completed by the end of December 2022. “I have been very candid on how we want to drive the redevelopment of Downtown Nassau, so that it can become one of the best destination attractions in the region. We hope that this improvement can be contagious,” he said. The deputy prime minister reported that between January to April 2022, 51.4 percent of visitors from all regions were repeat visitors. And, during the first four months of the year, 69.5 percent of all stopover visitors came to The Bahamas primarily for a vacation, with 13.2 percent coming for weddings and honeymoons, and 3.8 percent for business. Regarding Grand Bahama, the deputy prime
minister outlined projects aimed at revitalizing that economy. Namely, the sale of the Grand Lucayan Resort, the development of Carnival Cruise Port, the revitalization of Port Lucaya Market Place & Marina, a new Grand Bahama International Airport with returned Pre-Clearance, significant airlift by Bahamasair, WesternAir and other airline partners, and the sale of abandoned projects through Tourism’s “Shovel-Ready Initiative” to include Ginn Sur Mer, Harcourt Properties, the International Bazaar and Xanadu. “These initiatives will mean a significant number of tourist arrivals there and change the economic prospects for Grand Bahama for many years,” the deputy prime minister said. He added, “The jobs and tourism receipts will have knock-on effects in countless ways in the coming years. In our minds, we really are just getting started with Grand Bahama.” The deputy prime minister shared that the plan is to continue to attract big investors to Grand Bahama, some of which are already in the pipeline. “The $500m investment in the GB Shipyard and the sale of Equinor will bring significant boost to the industrial sectors,” he said. “We will fast track these out of the pipeline as well.” Regarding Family Islands, he confirmed that new airports will be built in Exuma (including a 5,000-foot runway at Black Point), North Eleuthera, at Deadman’s Cay, Long Island and New Bight, Cat Island. “All of these airports will be facilitated through Public-Private Partnerships,” he said. Source: BIS, June 15th, 2022 Written By: Lindsay Thompson
Covid 19 Update: Active Cases Fall, Health Visa Eliminated Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper announced the elimination of the Travel Health Visa in June, which came into effect on Sunday, June 19th, 2022, a further streamlining of COVID-19 entry protocols for travelers. He made the announcement during his contribution to the 2022-23 Budget Debate in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, June 15th, 2022. This came on the heels of the announcement that the pre-departure testing requirements for air travelers entering the United States were lifted as of June 12th, 2022. However, the vaccination requirement for non-US citizens and non-US resident travelers remains in effect. The Bahamas’ COVID-19 Advisory Committee also announced the approval of the elimination of the requirement for vaccinated persons to have a COVID-19 test to enter The Bahamas. Unvaccinated persons two years and older, however, will still need to show proof of either a negative RT PCR or Rapid Antigen COVID-19 test result to enter the country. The change in entry requirement took effect Sunday, June 19th, 2022 at 12:01a.m.
The announcement was made on June 15th, 2022 by the Minister of Health & Wellness the Honourable Dr. Michael R. Darville as he made his contribution to the 2022 – 2023 Budget Debate. The Health & Wellness Minister said the decision to eliminate the test requirement for vaccinated persons was based on science and recommendations from both local and regional epidemiologists. He added that it was also consistent with regional and global recommendations, and called it “good news for our tourism sector and local economy.” Dr. Darville added, “Visitors and citizens are reminded to follow the COVID-19 preventative measures such as proper handwashing, mask wearing and physical distancing as these measures along with being vaccinated helps to minimize the spread of COVID-19.” As of Sunday, July 10th, 2022 the total number of active cases throughout the country had decreased from 907 on June 11th to 526 as of July 10th. Hospitalizations, however, stood at 48 people, up from 28 people in hospital four weeks earlier. Notably, no patients were listed in intensive care. Reported COVID-19 deaths in The Bahamas
since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020, as of July 10th, 2022 stood at 822 people. During June 2022, Eleuthera saw a plateauing of cases on the island, according to Ministry of Health officials. As of Wednesday, July 6th, 2022, there were 25 active cases throughout the island (2 cases in Spanish Wells, 0 cases in Harbour Island, 2 cases in North Eleuthera, 4 cases in Central Eleuthera, and 17 cases in South Eleuthera). 36 people were in quarantine (3 in Spanish Wells, 0 in Harbour Island, 7 in North Eleuthera, 7 in Central Eleuthera, and 19 in South Eleuthera), and 3 people were under investigation for infection (PUI’s) - 1 in North Eleuthera, 1 in Spanish Wells, and 1 in South Eleuthera. Health officials described Eleuthera as quiet on the whole, and doing well in terms of cases, with no real concerns as of the first week in July 2022. As of June 25th, the Ministry of Health and Wellness reported that 168,257 Bahamians and residents had been fully vaccinated. Of that total number 5,821 people were reported to have been fully vaccinated in Eleuthera.
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Select police reports, shared by the RBPF locally Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs
Police on the Island of Eleuthera have taken into custody a number of persons in separate incidents for possession of dangerous drugs, during the month of June 2022.
1. Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs with Intent to Supply On Wednesday the 1st of June 2022, sometime around 11:25am, Officers came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with suspects; an adult male, adult female and juvenile female suspect all under arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs with Possession of Dangerous Drugs with Intent to Supply. They reported that they arrested and cautioned the suspects after a high-speed chase from Governor’s Harbour to Palmetto Point and a quantity of suspected Marijuana was retrieved from the vehicle, a Silver Toyota Vitz. The suspects were processed and subsequently charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs with intent to Supply.
Eleuthera came in at Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male and an adult female under arrest for Possession of Dangerous with intent to supply. Both persons were arrested and cautioned while at their residence after a search warrant was executed and officers discovered a large quantity of suspected marijuana and a quantity of white substance suspected to be cocaine inside of the residence. Both suspects were subsequently processed and charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs with Intent to Supply.
4. Arrest: to Possession of Dangerous Drugs On Thursday 2nd June 2022, sometime around 3:30am Officers while conducting operational duties in the Southern District of Eleuthera came in at Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male under arrest for Possession of Dangerous. The suspect was later processed and charged with that offence.
5. Arrest: to Possession of Dangerous Drugs with the 2. Arrest reference to PossesIntent to Supply sion of Dangerous Drugs On Wednesday the 1st June 2022, sometime around 1:38pm Officers came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with an adult male suspect under arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs and reported that he was arrested and caution at about 1:25pm after a search warrant was executed of his residence revealing a quantity of suspected Marijuana found in a North Eastern bedroom. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence.
3. Arrest: to Possession of Dangerous Drugs with the Intent to Supply On Thursday, 2nd June 2022, sometime around 3:30am Officers while conducting operational duties in the Southern District of
On Thursday 2nd June 2022, sometime around 6:15am Officers while conducting operational duties in the Southern District of Eleuthera came in at Rock Sound Police Station with two adult males and one adult female under arrest for Possession of Dangerous Drugs with intent to supply. All three persons was arrested and cautioned while at their residence after a search warrant was executed and officers discovered a large quantity of suspected marijuana which was found on the inside of the residence. All suspects were processed and charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs with Intent to Supply.
6. Arrest: to Possession of Dangerous Drugs On Thursday 2nd June
2022, sometime around 6:15am Officers while conducting operational duties in the Southern District of Eleuthera came in at Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male under arrest for Possession of Dangerous Drugs. He was arrested and cautioned while at his residence after a search warrant was executed and discovered a quantity of suspected marijuana inside of the residence. He was processed and subsequently charged with that offence.
7. Arrest: to Possession of Dangerous Drugs with the Intent to Supply On Thursday 2nd June 2022, sometime around 7:39am Officers while conducting operational duties in the Southern District of Eleuthera came in at Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male under arrest for Possession of Dangerous Drugs with intent to supply. He was arrested and cautioned while at his residence after a search warrant was executed and officers discovered a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was processed and subsequently charged with that offence.
8. Possession of Dangerous Drugs Arrest On Friday 10th June 2022, sometime around 5:30 pm, Officers acting on information received, executed a search warrant for dangerous drugs and firearms, on the premises of an adult female. The suspect then directed officers to her bathroom and indicated a clear plastic zip lock bag. The contents revealed a quantity of suspected marijuana. She was then placed under arrest and cautioned. The suspect was later escorted to Spanish Wells Police Station for processing.
9. Drug Arrest On Tuesday 28th June 2022, sometime around 3:27pm Officers while in James’ Cistern stopped a white Honda Accord with no front bumper attached. Officers became suspicious and conducted a search of the adult male driver and a black bag which was in the vehicle. Officers retrieved (4) four silver foil wraps each containing grassy substance of suspected marijuana, he was arrested and caution reference to same. The suspect was transported to Governor’s Harbour Police Station where he was processed and charged with that offence.
Police Contact Numbers
HeadQuarters (GH) 332-3500
1. Governor’s Harbour 332-2111 OR 332-2117 O/C Governor’s Harbour 332-2723 Gov.Harb. Airport Station 332-2323 Deep Creek Station 334-8207 Tarpum Bay Station 334-4033 Rock Sound Station 334-2244 Rock Sound Sgt. Office 334-2212 Rock Sound Airport Stn 334-2052 L. Bogue Station (Airport) 335-1208 Harbour Island Station 333-2111 O/C Harbour Island 333-2327 Spanish Wells Station 333-4030 Gregory Town Station 335-5322 Hatchet Bay Station 335-0086
POLICE SEIZE LARGE QUANTITY OF MARIJUANA Over one hundred and sixty-five (165) pounds of suspected Marijuana was confiscated by police on Sunday 10th July 2022. Officers of the Eleuthera Division acting on information around 2:30 pm conducted a search of a property located in Eleuthera Shores, where the drugs, with an estimated street value of $165,000.00. was discovered. No arrests were made in connection with the incident. Active police investigations continue.
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National Digital Identity System Workshop held on strategy for implementation
in the Bahamas
workshop aimed at engaging government and private stakeholders on key issues for the development of a strategy for the implementation of a National Digital Identification System in The Bahamas. The workshop was held at Margaritaville Beach Resort, Bay Street, Nassau, Bahamas, on 28th – 29th June, 2022. Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Member of Parliament for the Bains and Grants Town Constituency, and Chairman of the NIS Committee, Mr. Wayde Watson, during his address to participants noted that the workshop marked the formal beginning of “the process of developing a strategy, roadmap and action plan for the implementation and adoption of a national digital identification system in The Bahamas.” Mr. Watson highlighted that a number of government agencies have expanded their service offerings online, and through the government’s MyGateway portal, the stage is being set for the nation’s transition to safe paperless end to end online transactions. Attending international consultants Javier Preciozzi and Bernard Morvant, evoked discussions after they made presentations on topics that included the following: - Digital ID System Design Concepts and Findings of the Concept Note that they developed in 2021 - Articulating a Vision and the priorities for a National Digital ID System Digital. Pictured above: Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Mr. Wayde Watson opens the National Digital Identity System Strategy Consultancy Kick-off Workshop at Margaritaville Beach Resort, Tuesday, June 28th, 2022. (Digital Transformation Unit Photo) NASSAU, The Bahamas - The Ministry of Economic Affairs in conjunction with the National e-Identification System (NIS) Committee convened a two-day kick-off
ID Expert consultant, Satyajit Suri, in his presentation on Methodology, Approach and Draft Work Plan for Developing the Strategy, Roadmap and Action Plan, laid out the objectives of the project and the key considerations for designing The Bahamas’ Digital ID Project. While he expressed hope that implementation would be both agile and accelerated, he led a discussion on some of the key risks to the digital ID enrollment process and outlined the key P39 milestones set for the next six (6) months.
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Statement by Minister of Foreign Af-
On the Death of Shinzo Abe, Former Prime Minister of Japan
fairs
It is with deep regret and sadness that The Bahamas learned of the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan. A diplomatic note will be advanced expressing our formal condolences. This was a dastardly act. I feel a sense of personal loss in that one day at an international meeting with Mr. Abe as Prime Minister, he sent a message that he wanted to see me. I was perplexed because I did not know him and he did not know me. We met. He said that he wanted me to know that he and his wife had spent their honeymoon in The Bahamas. This was a brief human moment in the middle of statecraft. We pay tribute to him on his untimely passing in these shocking circumstances. On behalf of our Prime Minister, the government and people of The Bahamas, we extend condolences to the family and to the government and people of Japan.
Investigations Continue into the Shooting Death in Central Eleuthera A man identified as Sean Major, a resident of New Providence, was shot dead in Palmetto Point on June 17th. According to reports from the Eleuthera Division of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, they were alerted shortly after four o’clock on the afternoon of the killing, that a shooting had taken place in South Palmetto Point, Central Eleuthera at
a location identified as Runaway Bay Marina . Officers who were dispatched to the area, said upon arrival they were directed to the body of the man who in their assessment had wounds consistent with gunshots. Local medical personnel shortly thereafter examined and pronounced the bullet wounded body, lifeless. Up to print time, Officer-In-
Charge of the Eleuthera Division, Chief Superintendent Shanta Knowles said that no one had been apprehended and charged in relation to this apparent homicide, and that the deadly incident was still under active investigation. Police are appealing to members of the public, who may have information that can assist with their investigations into this incident and
other criminal matters, to contact the Criminal Investigations Department at 502-9991/2, Crime stoppers at 328-TIPS (8477) or the nearest police station. Note: Post print updates may be found online at www. EleutheraNews.com
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NEMA conducts ‘Restore Island Cays’ (RIC) Simulation Exercise
Chief Petty Officer, Romeiko Burrows, Royal Bahamas Defence Force attached to NEMA (back to camera) with (at left): Lt. Commander Brad Dubois, United States Coast Guard, and (at right) Ms. Jena Daggett, United States Northern Command – USNORTHCOM. (BIS Photo/Patrick Hanna) Disaster Managers from across the archipelago concluded a four-day Restore Island Cays (R.I.C.) Exercise that was hosted at the National Emergency Management Agency’s (NEMA) Headquarters, Gladstone Road and NEMA’s Way during late June. The R.I.C Exercise has become an annual event for the Agency and Disaster Managers and Planners across the country since its launch in 2017. It is a collaboration between NEMA and its global partners from the Pacific Disaster Centre, based in Hawaii, United States of America; the United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), based in Denver, Colorado, United States of America; and officials from the United States Coast Guard. Captain Stephen Russell, Director, the National Emergency Management Agency, said the aim of the Exercise was to simulate various events that
could impact The Bahamas, be they hurricanes or other major, mass casualty events. The Exercise further allows local disaster management officials in New Providence, along with Disaster Consultative Committees in Grand Bahama, Abaco and the Family Islands, to “test the collective disaster management system of The Bahamas” through a series of simulated events including mass casualty events, and damages to key infrastructure such as utilities, docks, roads, clinics, hospitals, schools and telecommunications networks, among others.
will kick in.
“It is an opportunity for knowledge exchange, and capacity building,” Captain Russell said. “The aim is to ensure that if an event occurs anywhere in the archipelago, either at the island or community level, those persons on the ground in the various islands can respond on their own, or if there is a need for a national response, the national response
“(As part of the simulation exercise) We began receiving Alerts from The Bahamas Department of Meteorology when the system was 60 hours away, south of Cuba. We started the process of activating our systems from Inagua and Mayaguana in the south and gradually as the storm made its approach, we continued to activate our entire system until the entire country was in preparation and response mode.”
“The scenario simulated a major Category 5 Hurricane with winds of 175 miles per hour and accompanying storm surge of up to 20 feet approaching The Bahamas from the south, coming across the eastern tip of Cuba, across the western tip of Hispaniola, and proceeding up the archipelago, touching most of our islands and exiting up towards the Grand Bahama/Abaco area. In this scenario, all islands of the Bahamas would have somehow been impacted.
Captain Russell applauded the participants (Inhouse and virtually). He said the Agency will continue to do its part to prepare the country’s comprehensive disaster management system to be able to respond to any emergency and/or disaster that may impact the country. He urged citizens and residents to do likewise with their individual and community preparations.
Captain Stephen Russell, Director, the National Emergency Management Agency, addressing participants of the 2022 Restore Island Cays (R.I.C.) Simulation Exercise held over a four-day period at the Agency’s Headquarters, Gladstone Road and NEMA’s Way. (BIS Photo/Patrick Hanna)
“Over the past 7 years, going back to Hurricane Joaquin up to Hurricane Dorian, every citizen in the commonwealth should be aware of the extent of the damages these systems can cause. A Category 5 Storm, such as the one we saw with Hurricane Dorian, can bring about catastrophic damages and deaths (and) so we urge every citizen and resident throughout the Commonwealth of The Bahamas to heed our calls to be prepared. Hurricane Joaquin (2015), Matthew
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Digital ID’s
The expert participants gave valuable feedback surrounding the accuracy and use of data across agencies that produce functional IDs, such as the Passport Office, The National Insurance Board and the Road Traffic Department. Ultimately, they were all in agreement on a national digital ID being the one source of truth as proof of identity for transactions with public and private entities, allowing users to prove “that they are who they say they are”. Discussions in breakout groups addressed key themes such as the adoption of a Digital ID, the protection of individual privacy and data rights, inclusion, implementation timelines and security.
Mr. Scott Kuykendall (standing), Exercise Lead, and Disaster Management Specialist, the Pacific Disaster Centre, Hawaii, with participants of the recent four-day R.I.C. Exercise. (BIS Photo/Patrick Hanna) (2016), Irma (2017), and Hurricane Dorian (2019) – those four major storms - all came with associated storm surge ranging from 12-20 feet and above of water over our low-lying communities. “NEMA will raise the alarm; we have had the awareness exercises and will continue to do so, but again it is up to individuals, at the family level, at the household level, to have a Plan of Action as to how they will respond. We encourage persons at the community level to know where the vulnerable areas are in their communities, where the vulnerable citizens are, and where those persons with challenges are. Collectively as a community, we must have a plan as to how we will safeguard our communities. “I also frequently speak about business plans;
Picture this...
about livelihood protection plans. We encourage small (and large) businesses to find a way to safeguard their assets. Storms will come and they have become more frequent and more ferocious so we must have a Plan of Action to safeguard our assets.” Captain Russell also addressed the need to adhere to evacuation orders. “The Government has implemented Mandatory Evacuation Plans, we therefore stress upon persons that if evacuation orders – mandatory or voluntary – have been issued for your community, to please take the self-responsibility to connect with your local Administrators, with members of the local Disaster Management Committees to know what the Plan of Action is,” Captain Russell added.
In the midst of Independence Celebrations in Spanish Wells, two Manatees Cruising by - July 9th, 2022.
Addressing the closing session of the workshop, National Coordinator for Information Technology, Mr. Patrick Davis, commended the organizers, consultants and participants. He explained that the legal team “was diligently working on developing the legal framework for a healthy National Digital Identity System that will provide safety, reliability and the accurate authentication of identity information.” He concluded that the workshop, which was aimed at creating a platform for exchanging and sharing experiences, best practices and lessons learned, achieved its objectives. Background In 2021, A Concept Note for the Development of a National Digital ID System was developed by IDB consultants in consultation with key government stakeholders as part of the IDB Digital Transformation Loan Project. A Special Committee for National e-ID System (NIS) implementation was appointed by Cabinet to oversee and champion the establishment and adoption of the National Digital ID System, and the Committee has established the multi-stakeholder business, technical and legal and regulatory working groups to support its work in analysing, deliberating, and providing recommendations on specific issues related to the planning, design, implementation, and adoption of the Digital ID System. The Ministry of Economic Affairs has also recently engaged a Digital ID Expert to lead the development of a strategy, roadmap, and action plan for the Digital ID System. The expert will also provide technical and advisory support in developing key outputs to fast-track implementation, and for the procurement and selection of a digital identity solution provider.
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PM Davis Lauds Both Incoming and Outgoing Commissioners of Police
Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis speaks, during his remarks at the Handing-Over Ceremony of the Office of Commissioner of Police of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF), on July 5th, 2022, at the RBPF Headquarters. Among those present included Governor General His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Cornelius A. Smith; Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper, Minister of National Security the Hon. Wayne Munroe and various Cabinet Ministers; Leader of the Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition the Hon. Michael Pintard; Chief Justice the Hon. Sir Brian Moree; senior Government officials and heads and officers of the uniformed branches; diplomats; law enforcement stakeholders; family members and well-wishers. (BIS Photos/Eric Rose)
New Police Commissioner, Clayton Fernander
During his remarks at the HandingOver Ceremony of the Office of Commissioner of Police of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF), on July 5th, 2022, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis noted that formal policing in The Bahamas went back to 1840, making the RBPF one of the longest-established institutions in the country. He added that traditions, such as the Handing-Over Ceremony, symbolised not just the continuity of the institution, but also the continuity of Bahamian democratic traditions. “At a time when so many other democracies are experiencing significant challenges, we should be justifiably proud that, here in our Bahamas, the fundamental role and responsibilities of policing are so deeply entrenched,” Prime Minister Davis said, at the ceremony held at the RBPF Headquarters, on East Street. Among those present included Governor General His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Cornelius A. Smith; Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper, Minister of National Security the Hon. Wayne Munroe and various Cabinet Ministers; Leader of the Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition the Hon. Michael Pintard; Chief Justice the Hon. Sir Brian Moree; senior Government officials and heads and officers of the uniformed branches; diplomats; law enforcement stakeholders; family members and wellwishers. “This transfer of new leadership today, at its heart, is a renewed commitment to the fight against crime,” he added. “Our administration is also committed to the wider responsibilities of policing, which is to maintain public order and safety, and to enforce the law.” Prime Minister Davis pointed out that, during the past 49 years since Independence, this was only the second Commissioner of Police to be appointed by a Progressive Liberal Party Administration. “And so in the Commissioner, we think it important that he is able to work within our approach to policy, which reflects both the progressive values we represent, and the mandate upon which we were elected,” he said. Prime Minister Davis continued:
“First and foremost, this means that we see policing in general, and the fight against crime in particular, as an effort that must be conducted in partnership with the Bahamian people.” He noted that in the platform document, ‘A Blueprint for Change’, his Government made a solemn commitment to strengthen the nation’s security by ‘… enhancing crime fighting methodologies in our aggressive war against crime’. “We stand firmly behind that commitment,” Prime Minister Davis said. “That said, we do not view policing as something which is to be inflicted upon our citizens and residents,” he added. “The reflexive, heartless approach of recent years of ‘just lock them up’, is not one that we endorse or share.” Prime Minister Davis said, to be clear, however, his Government will continue to increase its muscular response to crime, and violent crime in particular. “We will continue to use every available resource to dismantle the gangs which plague our society, and work with neighbouring countries to stop the flow of illegal weapons into The Bahamas,” he said. “Gangs and weapons are the two critical factors driving the high murder rate we are currently experiencing, with the almost weekly tit-for-tat killings between gangs.” Prime Minister Davis noted that more aggressive policing, on its own, was not the whole answer. “We understand that fighting crime requires more than just responding to an offence,” he said. “It’s also about conflict resolution, prevention, intervention, punishment, and rehabilitation. The Government will continue to spend more on community policing and ‘violence-disrupters’. And we will continue to offer safety net programs for young people.” Prime Minister Davis noted the Urban Renewal Trust Foundation was recently formally relaunched, to assist in this effort. He added that other initiatives, such as ‘Swift Justice’, and the ‘Citizens’ Justice and Security Programme’ will continue to strengthen his Government’s approach. “We will also continue to invest in education and job programmes that can confront and overcome the sense of hope-
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lessness felt by so many young men, who resort to a life of crime as a means of gaining self-esteem and opportunity,” he said. “And with the building of a new prison, and an expansion of rehabilitation schemes, we will do what we can to ensure that when people complete their jail sentences, and re-join society, they are supported and enabled to ensure that they do not re-offend,” he added. Prime Minister Davis said that, along with those initiatives, which were focused on the offender, his Government was also extremely mindful of the need to offer better support to those who were victims of crime. “Every criminal act impacts upon those who are victims of it,” he said. “But those who are victims of serious, life-changing crimes, need more, along with the encouragement to trust the police to do their job, and not engage in any individual, vigilante efforts.” Prime Minister Davis pointed out that he set out those thoughts in relation to policing to highlight the charge given to both the outgoing and incom-
nat io na l ing Commissioners. He also noted that the background and experience of both represent “some of the finest in the policing tradition of our country”. Prime Minister Daivs said that, since joining the RBPF in 1983, outgoing Commissioner Paul Rolle had enjoyed a distinguished career in law enforcement. “Among his many assignments, Commissioner Rolle served as Officer-in-Charge of the Central Detective Unit, Head of the Police Training College, and Officer-in-Charge of the Crime Detection Unit (CDU), during which time he concluded and placed more than 2,400 cases before the Supreme Court,” he noted. “After attaining the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police in 2017, Mr. Rolle was instrumental in establishing the Anti-Corruption Unit. “My government and I thank Mr. Paul Rolle for his public service, and wish him well in his new assignment.” To the incoming Commissioner of Police, Deputy Commissioner Clayton Fernander, Prime Minister Davis
extended a welcome and congratulations. “He is also a career law enforcement officer with almost four decades of policing, administrative and investigative experience,” Prime Minister Davis said. “He has worked in the Traffic Division, the Criminal Investigations Department, and served as a Divisional Commander; on the Selective Enforcement Unit,” he added. “He has been part of the Central Detective Unit, and, as Assistant Commissioner was a member of the Senior Executive Leadership Team when, in 2017, he assumed responsibilities for the Crime Management Portfolio. Prime Minister Davis pointed out that, following his return to active duty in September 2021, Mr. Fernander took on a “new and more challenging role” when he assumed the Criminal Investigations and Intelligence Portfolio as Deputy Commissioner of Police.
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tioned that, in 2013 Mr. Fernander was shot during an attempted armed robbery, an incident “which did not weaken his resolve to serve in law enforcement”. We look forward to his bringing the same courage and tenacity to his role as Commissioner,” he said. Prime Minister Davis said that it was arguable that the job of policing in The Bahamas has never been more challenging or more demanding. “The change of leadership signified by today’s handing-over ceremony, contains within it my administration’s commitment to strengthen the rule of law, the preservation of good law and order and the maintenance of the peace, and a resolute determination to win the fight against crime in our country,” he said. “Commissioner Fernander is the right man for the job.” Source: BIS July 6th, 2022 Written By: Eric Rose
Prime Minister Davis also men-
From left to right: Assistant Commissioner of Police and Officer in Charge of the Northern Bahamas Division of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, Theophilus Cunningham; Commissioner-Designate, Clayton Fernander; outgoing Commissioner of Police, Paul Rolle; and Deputy Commissioner of Police, Leamond Deleveax.
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Ground Breaking House of Assembly are working together as a team, and this could not have happened without team effort... When the Minister of Transport and Housing announced her aggressive affordable homes construction program, I could not think of a better place to build homes than the beautiful ‘Island of Freedom’. My team sprang into action to identify areas of suitable land, owned by the government. We made enquiries on ownership and availability and found three locations Hatchet Bay, Governor’s Harbour, and right here where we are sitting today (Rock Sound)... After deliberations - to create enough housing, and an extension to the township of Hatchet Bay, we successfully negotiated the title transfer of 100 acres of land to the Ministry of Housing and Transport, and we hope to begin construction on homes there (in Hatchet Bay) within a year. The Minister of Housing will also sell affordable lots at the same location.
Above (Front Row - L-R): Prime Minister Philip Davis, Attorney General Ryan Pinder, Minister of Housing and Transport Jobeth Coleby-Davis, and Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs Clay Sweeting. Minister Sweeting on Thursday commented during the ground breaking, saying, “In my book, today will go down as one of the best days in my political career, because today we made good on our promise that speaks to a greater desire to meet the needs of the residents and descendants of Eleuthera, to provide affordable housing, and to
also increase the availability of opportunities that Eleutherans have access to. We have a long way to go, but we are intent on ensuring that the quality of living on the Family Islands is improved, and that Family Islanders have fair access to opportunities throughout our archipelago.” He continued, “My colleagues and I in the
“We are also assessing Governor’s Harbour in Central Eleuthera, and we are hopeful to have the current title issues resolved to expand the construction of affordable homes there as well... Here in Rock Sound today, we have created the opportunity to expand government services through affordable homes here, to the island of Eleuthera for the first time in our history of this magnitude. These will be available for purchase by Eleutherans, and will be built by Eleutherans. Eleutheran residents and descendants will have first preference to qualify, and thus the mortgage fair will be hosted tomorrow... If the opportunity is missed tomorrow, residents can apply online and register to become a homeowner... Eleuthera is poised for revitalization, and everything that is needed for the island to grow is in position. We only need to work together... Throughout government, there is a unified theme to build our Family Islands.” Minister of Transport and Housing, Jobeth Coleby-Davis, in her remarks addressed to community members of Central and South Eleuthera, in attendance to mark the significant event, shared, “My team and I, we’ve worked so hard to make sure that we are committed to the promises of the government... In our ‘blueprint for change’, the Davis led administration committed to a housing program that will expand the path to homeownership for many Bahamians. Today’s ground breaking is the continuation of our Family Island Housing Initiative, and the start of the fulfillment of the pledge for the island of Eleuthera... Prime Minister Davis gave instructions for building houses in Central and South Eleuthera, and the Ministry of Housing is here to carry out those instructions... I assure all Eleutherans, inclusive of the residents of North Eleuthera - you will not, you have not, and we cannot leave you behind. My ministry is aggressively looking to provide affordable housing solutions for your community...
Above: Local volunteers assist with showcasing the four models of homes on display by the Ministry of Transport and Housing, as building choices within the new Ocean Hole subdivision.
“We are not doing anything special for you in Eleuthera, we are simply doing what governments should be doing. We are not interested in PR stunts, our actions today are prioritized, focused, and meaningful. Today our affordable homes program consist of two-bedroom and two bathroom homes, and three bedroom and two bathroom homes From the onset my team
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State-Minister LaRoda meets with Chinese Ambassador Dai Qingli in terms of relations between the two countries dating back 25 years. The State-Minister said 50 per cent of the country’s National Debt, was directly related to damages from Hurricanes, with Hurricane Dorian alone accounting for $3.4Billion in damages. Mr. LaRoda said an area of interest for The Bahamas, was in the technology behind China’s modular home construction process.
Above: Bahamian and Chinese delegations at the meeting table during a visit by Chinese Ambassador to The Bahamas, Her Excellency Dai Qingli, to Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Response, the Hon. Myles K. LaRoda. facilities. Her Excellency also presented NEMA officials with KN95 masks. NASSAU, The Bahamas – Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Response, the Hon. Myles K. LaRoda, met with Chinese Ambassador to The Bahamas, Her Excellency Dai Qingli, and delegation, (Monday, July 4) at the National Emergency Management Agency’s (NEMA) Headquarters, Gladstone Road and NEMA’s Way. State-Minister LaRoda was accompanied by Mr. Carl F. Smith, Permanent Secretary, the Office of the Prime Minister’s Disaster Management Unit; Mrs. Isla Deane, Under Secretary, the Office of the Prime Minister’s Disaster Management Unit; Captain Stephen Russell, Director, NEMA and Mrs. Gayle Outten-Moncur, Deputy Director, NEMA. Ambassador Qingli was accompanied by officials from the Chinese Embassy, Bahamas. Her Excellency and delegation were briefed on the country’s disaster management procedures – mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery – prior to undertaking a tour of NEMA’s
and I were on the ground here in Eleuthera to identify land for the construction of homes, all with the view to determining an access and what was needed to facilitate our housing agenda.” Prime Minister Philip Davis was also in Eleuthera on Thursday morning to attend the historic ground breaking event in Rock Sound in support of the efforts and strides being made by Ministers Coleby-Davis and Sweeting and weighed in on the impact of this step, saying, “Today’s ground breaking ceremony of the Ocean Hole subdivision is yet another example of our government’s commitment to empowering Bahamians. This expansion of 100 additional lots forms part of our strategy to ensure provision of affordable homes and housing
The visit, tour and discussions coincided with the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of “maintaining cordial and productive” diplomatic relations between China and The Bahamas. “At this 25th anniversary, we will be committed to bringing forward our relationship in all areas with your Government and people,” Ambassador Qingli said. “Disaster Response is an important area. We understand how much The Bahamas has suffered (as a result of Hurricane) Dorian and from a number of extreme weather events. We wanted to learn more about your disaster prevention, response, management, and relief efforts so that we will know how best to direct our efforts. “We tried our best to be of help (in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian) by extending some emergency assistance both in cash and kind in Grand Bahama and Abaco,” Her Excellency added.
“We can learn a lot from the Chinese with regards to your modular home productions. We look at Dorian and what we had to deal with in terms of providing temporary housing for persons who were displaced. Dorian came with a wall of 20ft high sustained storm surge and as a result, numerous homes were destroyed which meant that we had to provide temporary shelter for those persons. “I would have seen, at the start of the COVID-19 Pandemic, how China was able to mobilize a hospital in a matter of days. That was very impressive. If we had that kind of technology or assistance, we would be able to mobilize and assist families who have been displaced from these natural disasters in a shorter time. We sit in the middle of hurricane alley. (Hurricanes) are a way of life for us, but if we can get assistance in terms of providing temporary, comfortable, housing accommodations until the affected persons can get back on their feet, that would help us tremendously in terms of getting people’s lives back in order,” State-Minister LaRoda added. (BIS Photos/Anthon Thompson) Source: Bahamas Information Services July 5th, 2022 Written By: Matt Maura
State-Minister LaRoda told his guests that The Bahamas was appreciative of the mutual respect
throughout the country.” The ground breaking event was followed by an Open House Fair, hosted the next morning, on Friday, July 1st, 2022, beginning at 9am until 3pm, at the Local Government Complex in Rock Sound. People interested in applying for a homesite, were able to speak with a comprehensive team, as representatives were in place from the Ministry of Transport and Housing, the Department of Housing, as well as the Bahamas Mortgage Corporation. “Our one-stop-shop initiative will aid in an easy, seamless process to home ownership,” said Minister Coleby-Davis. A variety of home models (drawings) were on display, for the information of the applicants. Resi-
dents were also encouraged to pre-sign up and register at (mothbahamas.com). Basic documents needed for application included: identification (passport and voter’s card), NIB smart card, a job letter, payslip - no more than 3 months old, current loans print out, proof of insurance, and preapproval from a financial institution. For further information about the Ocean Hole housing development, or upcoming opportunities in Governor’s Harbour and Hatchet Bay, Eleutherans can call: 242-302-5816 or send an email to (dohocustomerservice@bahamas.gov.bs).
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Bahamas Celebrates with the United States 246th Independence Anniversary expressed by U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Usha E. Pitts, U.S. Embassy, Nassau, and Admiral Daryl L. Caudle, Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command. Participating in the Cake Cutting Ceremony to celebrate U.S. Independence Day, of July 4 were: Commander of USS Lassen, Christopher P. Turmel; Ms. Pitts; the Hon. Wayne Munroe, Minister of National Security; Admiral Daryl L. Caudle, Commander of U.S Fleet Forces Command; Deputy Prime Minister Cooper; Mrs. Cecilia Cooper; and Sir Brian Moree, Chief JusFrom left: Commander of USS Lassen Christopher Turmel; U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Usha Pitts; Minister of National Security, the Hon. Wayne Munroe; Commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command Admiral Daryl Caudle; the Hon. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation; Mrs. Cecilia Cooper; and Chief Justice Sir Brian Moree perform the ceremonial cake-cutting. (BIS Photo/Kemuel Stubbs)
The Commonwealth of the Bahamas joined the United States of America in celebrating its 246th Year of Independence, aboard the U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer, USS Lassen (DDG 82) on Friday, July 1st, 2022. The ceremony took place while the vessel was in port at Prince George Wharf, Nassau Harbour, under the theme: ‘From
Sea to Shining Sea.’ The Hon. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation brought brief remarks on behalf of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. During the official Toast, he acknowledged the close, endearing ties between the United States and The Bahamas. The same sentiments were
tice of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. Also in attendance at the reception were Permanent Secretary Eugene Poitier, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Director General (Actg.) of Tourism Latia Duncombe; dignitaries and government officials. Source: BIS, July 4th, 2022 By: Lindsay Thompson
Ministry of Health and Wellness says its on a path to reduce the cost of healthcare NASSAU, The Bahamas - The Minister of Health and Wellness the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville announced that the ministry will embark on a new journey to improve manpower, infrastructural upgrades while focusing on reducing the level of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and the associated costs. He was making his contribution to the debate on “The Way Forward” Budget for the fiscal year 2022/2023, in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, June 15th, 2022. Dr. Darville shared a number of initiatives to be undertaken by his ministry; but first addressed recent COVID-19 protocol updates. Effective June 19, 2022 at 12:01 am, the Ministry of Health and Wellness removed the testing requirements for all vaccinated travelers entering The Bahamas. “This decision is based on science and recommendations from both local and regional epidemiologists. This is good news for our local economy,” he said.
U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Usha Pitts, U.S. Embassy, Nassau, and the Hon. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation raise a toast to the 246th U.S. Independence Anniversary. (BIS Photo/Kemuel Stubbs)
Dr. Darville noted however, that in the midst of good news, his ministry is faced with many other challenges, and tough decisions that have to be made in the short term. “Despite the naysayers, many countries believe The
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Exploring the Wetlands at The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve Childen in Eleuthera have had a plethora of camps and activities choices for summer fun this year, since a loosening of restrictions earlier in 2022. The Levy Preserve was one of those options that took the thirty (30) children participating on an adventure of learning about and exploring ‘wetlands’, from Monday, June 27th to Friday, July 1st - from 9am to 3pm. The camp experience targeted at 7 to 12 year-olds, dubbed ‘Summer Safari’ was described as an educational camp where campers learned about the ecology of the Bahamas. This year theme, said Lakeisha Wallace, Education Officer, with the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, was ‘Exploring our Wonderful Wetlands’. Throughout the week, campers learned about the types of wetlands, their importance to the environment, the animals that live there and how to protect and conserve them, she shared. “During the afternoon campers engaged in water-based activities such as swimming and snorkeling, and at the end of the camp, students were able to identify a type of wetland, a shorebird, as well as other animals that live there. Campers also created campaigns to bring awareness to Wetlands and how to
Above: Fun at the beach alongside the Governor’s Harbour bay front for Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve summer campers, as they learn about and enjoy their natural environment from Education Officer, Ms. Lakeisha Wallace (far right). conserve them for future generations,” said Ms. Wallace. She added, “At Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, we encourage Bahamians and visitors to walk the trails through the native habitat, and view the beautiful orchids,
Bahamas has done well in handling the pandemic over the last 10 months, with the implementation of sound evidence-based policies and balanced COVID-19 protocols,” he said. Dr. Darville, who recently attended the World Health Assembly and the Summit of the Americas, said he and his delegation learned that many of the lower and medium income countries are “relying heavily” on preventive medicine and national wellness programmes to fight against COVID-19 and Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).
the food and medicinal plants, and the hardwood trees that played an important role in the history of the island.”
“It is also necessary for us to address many of the age-old Human Resources (HR) challenges that currently exist throughout my ministry,” he said. Dr. Darville then shared that his ministry has been allocated $316,322,383 million in this year’s Budget. Of this sum, $232,455,854million allocated to the Public Hospital’s Authority, and $46.2 million to National Health Insurance. The Department of Public Health, which manages the public clinics in New Providence and the Family Islands, has been allocated a sum of $52,935,740 million.
He said that these countries have also reported that they are experiencing lower hospital admissions and reduced morbidity and mortality as a result of their policies.
Dr. Darville said he was also proud to introduce two new line items in the budget – $10 million for Catastrophic Healthcare Services, and $2.5 million for Health and Wellness.
“In The Bahamas, we continue to battle with the increase in incidences of obesity, diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease and chronic renal failure,” Dr. Darville said. “Despite our efforts, the incidence of these NCDs continues to escalate.” He added, “There is much to be done and I must say time is not on our side.”
“With these two new line items, we are finally putting our money where our mouth is. We believe these two line items will go a long way in addressing the country’s disease burden and will bring immediate relief to hundreds of poor Bahamians across our archipelago that have been waiting for years for catastrophic care interventions and programmes to improve health and wellness,” he said. (BIS Photos/Ulric Woodside)
In this vein, Dr. Darville announced that his ministry would embark on a new journey to improve manpower resources and infrastructural upgrades, while focusing on reducing the incidence of Non-Communicable Diseases (NDCs) and the cost burden associated with prevention and treatment. “This would require bipartisan support and aggressive infrastructural upgrades to our hospitals and clinics. Building manpower resources both at the primary and tertiary level is critical to improving healthcare delivery systems across the country.
Source: BIS, June 17th, 2022 Written By: Lindsay Thompson
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Celebrating Independence from British Colonialism - 49 years on The 49th Anniversary of the Independence of The Bahamas, which is celebrated on July 10th each year, since 1973, took on a special energy this year, with events planned in each of the five districts, as well as in some individual townships. Flag raisings, ecumenical services and colourful cultural expressions, including the rush of junkanoo were features throughout the week of activities leading up to the 49th Independence holiday weekend. With an island filled with visitors, mainly from the U.S. which celebrated their Independence holiday on July 4th, Harbour
Island made the best of both holidays beginning with Goombay Summer Festival on Saturday, July 2nd, followed by an ecumenical service on Sunday evening, July 3rd. During the week heading into the Bahamas Independence celebrations, a different event was hosted on Bay Street in Harbour Island each evening.
On this page : Independence and Goombay Summer celebrations in Harbour Island.
The spirit of Goombay continued on Monday evening, July 4th, followed by a Family Fun night on Tuesday, and a Grill Master Cook Off competition on Wednesday, July 6th. A Gospel Explosion took over Bay Street on Thursday night and Culture was the name of the celebration game on Friday night, July 8th, with fire dancing and junkanoo on the program. Live entertainment returned on Saturday evening, July 9th, and sports on the softball field took focus on Sunday afternoon, July 10th. Celebrations continued, ‘Down by the Bay’ on Monday afternoon, July 11th in Harbour Island, closing out with fireworks and live music. North Eleuthera, on their Independence weekend calendar, brought residents out on Saturday evening, July 9th to the Lower Bogue Homecoming site, where an ecumenical service and flag raising ceremony was hosted, capping
off at midnight with fireworks and junkanoo. On Monday, the holiday off, saw crazy sports and fun-day activities, which led up to a cultural show later in the afternoon to round out the weekend. South Eleuthera came together on Freedom Park in Rock Sound on Saturday evening, July 9th, 2022, with an ecumenical service followed by a cultural show, and performance by the Royal Bahamas Youth Corp, before capping off the Independence evening at midnight with a flag raising, cutting of an Independence cake, and the excitement of fireworks and a rush out. Central Eleuthera, also focused on Saturday evening celebrations, beginning with a cultural show at 7pm on July 9th, featuring local choir voices raised in song, melodic soloist performances, young performers with a live band, as well as fire dancing. The festivities were followed by an ecumenical service beginning at 9pm, climaxing with a uniformed officers March Pass and an explosion of colourful fireworks, after the midnight flag-raising. Spanish Wells was not to be left out on Saturday, July 9th, as they began the fun early in the day, with Slippery Pole activities on the township’s dock beginning at 10:30am,
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The Eleutheran
On this page : Independence was celebrated with a variety of events and activities in townships throughout Eleuthera, from Spanish Wells to Rock Sound, and Governor’s Harbour in between.
with crowds of locals flocking the edges, as children of different age groups tried to overcome the massive globs of solid shortening smeared along the length of a painted telephone pole, hoisted over the water, at various sharpness of angle depending on the age groups competing for cash prizes to reach the coveted end of the slippery pole. A large manatee with a baby in tow also swam by
during the festivities, traveling the length of the dock, seemingly unaffected by the rambunctious sounds and crowd along the dock, as well as swimmers in the water. The large sea mammal didn’t stop, but continued on its way, as spectators stared and pointed as one resident said aloud that manatees had not been seen in the area for some time. Community celebrations of Independence continued in Spanish Wells on Saturday evening at the public park, with live entertainment, an outstanding citizen awards, games and vendor stalls, and fireworks to close.
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