The Eleutheran Newspaper January/February 2023 Issue

Cotton Bay Ritz-Carlton Reserve Developers Host Stakeholder Meeting

Managing Director of Cotton Bay Holdings Limited, Mr. Daniel Zuleta, on Thursday afternoon, February 9th, 2023, hosted the Member of Parliament (MP) for Central and South Eleuthera, Minister Clay Sweeting, along with a number of key government and community stakeholders, representing the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection, Ministry of Public Works, Local Government Administration and others, to an update meeting on the current status of the Cotton Bay development, key milestones and dates of near term and medium term plans for the project going forward. The expected impact on the local community and its infrastructure was also discussed.

Mr. Zuleta, summarizing the project status and purpose for hosting the meeting, commented, “We wanted to pres-

ent an update to the government on the Ritz-Carlton Reserve being developed in Cotton Bay... To get everybody aligned, understanding where we are, and where we are going... We are advancing the pre-construction and design stage. We have submitted the CEC application (Certificate of Environmental Clearance). Two of them - one for the resort and one for the road relocation. We anticipate the road relocation approval in late Marchearly April, and we should start construction of the road later in 2023...” During the pre-construction phase, expected to begin in 2023, two new roads will be developed, he said, ‘Cotton Bay Road’ and ‘Cocoplum Drive’, which will provide public beach access. “The road construction will start later this year. The resort construction will start dur-

Russell Island Water Supply Project Commissioned as Water Works Continue Across Eleuthera

Big Contingent accompanies Prime Minister to the opening ceremony

On Friday morning, February 10th, 2023, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis, and Minister of Works and Utilities the Hon. Alfred Sears traveled to Eleuthera for a ceremony to commission the Russell Island Water Supply project. Also present was Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs the Hon. Clay Sweeting; Ministry of Works Parliamentary Secretary Bacchus Rolle, Permanent Secretary Luther Smith, Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) Chairman Sylvanus Petty, board members and executives.

Public water supply on the island, until February 2023, was limited to a small area, and the ever expanding residential population had no access to water other than by private water cisterns. The Water and Sewerage Corporation’s project on Russell Island included the installation of over 7,000 feet of 4-inch and 3,000 feet of 2-inch PVC water mains to serve over 100 homes, at a cost of approximately $600,000, utilizing the Corporation’s personnel and equipment in conjunction with various local subcontractors. With the rapid expansion of homes on

the island, said WSC executives, they appreciated the importance of providing high quality piped potable water to sustain that level of development.

Spanish Wells resident and a property owner on Russell Island, Lynn Curry expressed, “Water is a big thing here. You had to drag water here, or have a tank and a pump. This is a big thing on the island today - to have water on Russell Island. I’m so proud. It’s a major update - a good

thing.”

WSC Executive Chairman and Member of Parliament for North Eleuthera, Mr. Sylvanus Petty, who worked closely with Minister Sears and the WSC team on the project, expressed, “This is a very momentous occasion for myself, the Corporation and the people of Spanish Wells. It has been a long time coming. When we first came to power, I was given the post as Chairman with P26

Above: MP Mr. Sylvanus Petty (center) tours Lower Bogue RO Plant with WSC executives.

Our Roads : The RBPF Traffic Division Commander Highlights Concerning Trends in Eleuthera

During the evening of Wednesday, January 18th, 2023, Commander of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) Traffic Division, Chief Superintendent David Lockhart, and his accompanying team, along with representatives of Road Traffic and the Ministry of Transport, were in Eleuthera to host a town hall presentation on road traffic safety.

In his presentation to the audience of Eleuthera community members, Commander Lockhart, expressed, “The Ministry of Transport, Road Traffic, and the Police Department are all concerned about the amount of traffic crashes we have had in Eleuthera during the last year (2022), compared to the year prior. We thought it fitting to come to the island. Eleuthera is the first island visited, with plans for us to visit several other islands to also deal with their particular issues.

“When we look at our statistics, especially our fatality rates, we saw that when we compare 2021 to 2022, there was a 600% increase of fatalities (from 1 in 2021 to 7 in 2022). In 2021 we had one (1) fatality in Eleuthera, and in 2022 we had seven (7). We thought that was very alarming for a small, quiet community

Above: RBPF Traffic Division Commander, Ch./Supt. David Lockhart (second from left) sits with a panel of representatives from Road Traffic, Local Government, and the Ministry of Transport as Eleuthera OIC, Ch./Supt. Shanta Knowles, addresses questions from the audience.

as Eleuthera. Despite it being very long - it is still a small, quiet community.

“In 2021 Eleuthera had 73 crashes, and in 2022 that number jumped to 117 crashes. In 2021, accidents with injuries on the island were high, with 78 - in 2022 that decreased to 57. In 2021, Eleuthera recorded 28 serious accidents, and this number decreased in 2022 to 26 serious accidents. So, overall for last year (2022) on Eleuthera there were a combined 207 traffic crashes. Most of these crashes should not have happened. They happened because somebody was doing something other than paying attention to driving their vehicle, when they should have been paying attention to the road.

“This was a big concern for the Minister of Transport, the Commissioner of Police, and Road Traffic. We hope that by coming here and bringing to the public’s attention that there is a serious problem - and I can tell you, I was here last year to conduct speed checks, and we clocked some persons at almost 100 mph (miles per hour). That should be a serious concern to everyone in the Eleuthera community. If you look at the fatalities in 2022, most of them occurred in settlements. The speed limit in settlements is 15 mph. The highest speed allowance in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas is 45

mph. Nobody does it... Eleuthera, Nassau, Exuma, Abaco, Grand Bahama - no one maintains the posted speed limit. Posted speed limits are placed on the roads, because that is the highest speed that the road is capable of safely accommodating.

“We decided to do Eleuthera first, because its rates were more alarming than the other islands. We know that these crashes should not be occurring, and they are occurring for reasons that are very much controllable. People are not paying attention, people are falling asleep, people are not adhering to all the traffic rules and regulations - whether it be speeding or driving under the influence of alcohol, and other breaches of the law... We thought it would be wise to come and heighten the awareness - so people would understand our concern.”

Chief Supt. Lockhart pointed out as well the burden that traffic accidents cause to families and the health care system, when there are injuries, also the loss of vehicles, and the burden for insurance companies. He further warned that if Eleuthera’s drivers do not pay attention to their driving behaviours, 2023’s traffic fatality numbers could continue to increase.

He highlighted that the incidence of people driving with unlicensed and un-

insured vehicles on the roads was also a growing problem throughout The Bahamas. He emphasized the critical nature of this regulation, especially when involved in an accident. “I am going to be pushing for even stiffer penalties for persons driving unlicensed vehicles, because that is a major concern, and that is one of the offences that is being breached on a daily basis.” He also spoke on the increasing illegal trend of people swapping plates between vehicles.

Without pointing to specifics concerning the cause of a number of the recent traffic accidents in Eleuthera, which were still under investigation, RBPF Officer Ms. Dorsett, accompanying Commander Lockhart, gave a presentation to the audience on the general contributing factors of traffic accidents, along with tips to heighten the safety of motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians using the roads.

Some of the most common contributing factors in accidents on the road, she pointed out, were speed, inattention, inexperience (young or unlicensed drivers), defective vehicles, bad road surfaces, disobeying traffic signs, and a lack of proper signage.

Motorists were urged to always wear their seatbelts, including both front and rear passengers. Making sure that lights and brake lights were working, especially at night was another recommendation. She highlighted the importance of taking your time to get to a destination without speeding. Drivers were urged as well to stay off their cell phones and electronic devices while driving. Children under a certain age, it was also said, should be secured in a child safety seat.

Cyclists were advised to wear light or reflective clothing, to wear safety gear (helmets, knee and elbow pads etc..), to use lights on the cycle, to not ride against the flow of the traffic, and to avoid riding at night. Pedestrians were asked to be fully aware of their surroundings, to not walk on the streets, and to use sidewalks where available.

In response to the presentations, audience members asked questions, and also made comment on some of their experiences with both authorities and other drivers on the road. One resident commented on the lack of accountability in crashes on the island, as well as the response time by police - relaying their wait time of two hours after being in a crash with a speeding driver, before police came on the scene - with the offending driver having fled the scene by that time. Several school bus drivers relayed the lack of respect some drivers had around buses as they dropped

off students in the settlements, recounting speeding drivers overtaking as students were exiting, despite the stop signs. Other motorists complained of the disturbing trend of fluorescent blue lights being used by some vehicles on island at night - which the Commander confirmed was actually illegal - as only amber or white lights are allowedas well as a new danger of large, blinding extra bright LED bands installed on some trucks and larger vehicles. Speeding in the middle of local communities was also a major concern raised by a number of audience members along with many other observances.

Officer-In-Charge of Eleuthera, Chief Superintendent Shanta Knowles, in response to a number of the concerns raised, responded, “We will address the concerns that we hear here tonight, and I hope that you will also take the message to the people, who you think should have been in this meeting, especially the young people in our communities.”

Following the meeting, when asked about points he wanted the Eleuthera public to pay special attention to, Commander Lockhart commented, “What we want people to do always, is to adhere to all the rules and regulations of the Road Traffic Act, because they are put in place for guidance. Without guidance the country would run amok. So, we want them to adhere to that. We want them to wear their seatbelts. We don’t want them to use cell phones when they are driving. We want them to be very careful of how their passengers are seated in their vehicles or on their trucks. We did have one fatality on this island that did involve a truck. So, we want drivers to always be conscious of their surroundings and their driving behaviours.”

He also wanted all motorists to be aware of the change in law in 2022, concerning drivers involved in traffic fatalities, saying, “People need to be aware of this. Last year, February, the new vehicular manslaughter law was gazetted, which gives stiffer penalties to persons who cause the death of someone. Before February of last year, the charge was ‘Killing in the course of dangerous driving’. You could pay a $10,000 fine and go back home. Today, the charge is now ‘Vehicular Manslaughter’, which carries a seven (7) year jail sentence. The law does not leave it for persons to just pay a fine and walk away. So, we need people to be aware that the penalties are a lot stiffer now. It’s life changing.”

Haiti at the tipping point of becoming fully hostage to criminals

Those in charge of the Haitian Government have called for “effective support” from international partners “in the form of the immediate deployment of a specialized armed force of sufficient strength to stop, throughout the country, the humanitarian crisis that has been caused by, among other things, the breakdown in security resulting from the criminal actions of armed gangs and their sponsors”.

But others in the Haitian community insist that the Haitian authorities share the blame for the country’s rapid deterioration. They are not convinced that, even if it were possible, an intervening military force is the answer to Haiti’s deep seated and longlasting woes.

intervention was produced by the de facto government (of Prime Minister, Ariel Henry) without any form of legitimacy (and) with its own objectives which seem to be to keep the PHTK (Henry’s political party) in power until the completion of the elections which they will organize with, in addition, the ability to manipulate the biometric data of citizens, that is, the electoral data”.

(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. The views expressed are entirely his own)

Haiti continues to occupy the concerns of nations around the world, especially its closest neighbouring states.

Everyone is united in the view that more than 200 gangs now effectively control 60 per cent of the Capital, Port -au-Prince and about 80 per cent of the entire country, and that action is required to end their reign of terror. However, how to end the rule of the gangs remains an issue within Haiti and among its very large diaspora community. Some favour armed intervention by external forces but without any clear definition of the terms under which this would be accomplished. Others resist the notion of any intervention by external forces.

Among the latter is The National Human Rights Defence (RNDDH) group, which states that the “request for military

Prime Minister Henry has managed to garner support for a “National Consensus for an inclusive transition and transparent election”. On December 21, Henry’s government and some representatives of the private sector, other political parties and civil society organizations signed a document, committing to this transition. But participation was not fully inclusionary and key stakeholders were either omitted or omitted themselves. Therefore, while Haiti’s international partners acknowledge the benefit of the commitment and the formation of a High Council for the Transition (HCT), they are concerned that the body is not inclusionary enough to represent a national consensus. Further, the past record in Haiti of abandoning agreed positions, resulting in even wider discord, does not encourage confidence that a limited HCT will survive or that its decisions will be respected.

In a letter to the President of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on October 8, 2022, the UN SecretaryGeneral, António Guterres, recognizing that the 5 permanent members would not agree to UN military intervention in Haiti, proposed two approaches. First, “A group of Member States, acting bilaterally at the invitation of the Government of Haiti, could establish a special force to support the Haitian National Police in tackling gangs, including through joint strike, isolation and containment operations across the country”; and second,

“The Security Council could welcome such a special force, the viability of which would be strengthened by the existence of broad political and social support for its deployment and a meaningful agreement between the Government and the opposition on a political way forward for Haiti”.

Neither of these proposals were pursued. No country, including the U.S. is anxious to commit forces to Haiti, outside of an agreed multi-national expedition. Further, there is still not in Haiti the kind of “broad political and social support” for the deployment of an external force. And despite the accord of December 21, 2022, and the creation of a limited HTC, there is, as yet, no “meaningful agreement between the government and the opposition on a political way forward”.

This situation in Haiti is made even more complex by the overarching power of the criminal gangs. One academic, César Niño, an associate professor and researcher at Universidad de la Salle in Colombia, writes that “the criminal gangs managed to make alliances with the police and security, thus enabling kidnapping, human trafficking, the flow of weapons, and other crimes while minimizing the consequences”. The Haitian Human Rights Group (RNDDH) goes even further, pointing to “ongoing and repeated connections between state authorities and armed gangs”.

Added to this are the following undisputed facts. The country has no legislature and no body overseeing the government; the Supreme Court is dysfunctional (its members must be approved by the parliament which does not exist) and it has lost a third of its members.

Amid all this, the people of the country are suffering. Research shows that five million

By Sir Ronald Sanders

By Mike Lightbourn

Questions or comments?

Contact me at info@cbbahamas.com

So, you’ve decided to bite the bullet and buy a home or a piece of land in 2023. This is an excellent goal! Whether you plan to buy a completed home or a piece of vacant land to build on later, the goal is to set yourself up for success.

If you’re the average buyer, there are a few things to do before you start looking

Get Your House in Order

at properties.

Are you ready?

New buyers often miscalculate the true upfront and financial cost of owning a home. Unless you’re one of the small number paying with cash, there’s a lot to digest.

First off, do you have enough savings for a down payment on a property?

Secondly, if you apply for a loan, is your income enough to service the debt while taking care of your other monthly obligations? What about the closing costs?

Before looking at properties, consult with a lender to see what you can afford.

The Power of a Plan

The most powerful tool is a plan to chart your future.

Focus on managing your money well, paying off and not incurring new debt and settling bills on time so you can strengthen your financial position. Get rid of things like unnecessary monthly subscriptions.

Can you turn a hobby into a second source of income? Have patience and discipline. If the obstacles seem too great, look at your options.

Starter Homes

A first home doesn’t have to be a forever home. A small starter home is typically more affordable and allows first time buyers to step into homeownership at a gentler pace.

The bigger the home, the more it will

cost to insure and maintain. A lot of people buy a piece of property and build piecemeal, as finances permit. Some build a couple of rooms and extend later. Many homes have been successfully built in the Bahamas using this model.

Regular Income Earners

Changing regular jobs can affect your fortunes. From a lender’s perspective, your income and employment history are tied to your ability to service your loan. What if the new job doesn’t pan out? Before switching jobs, consider the ways changing jobs may affect the home owning process.

Irregular income

If your earnings are irregular, the challenge is greater. It’s important

to understand the ups and downs of how your income operates.

This means understanding the economic seasons and how they relate to the peaks and valleys of your income. Many people will earn more in the cooler months when tourism peaks and second homeowners are in residence. The challenge then is knowing how to manage during lean times when your income is at a lower point.

One thing remains constant - real estate, bought at the right place and at the right price, is one of the best investments anyone can make.

Louis Glickman, the New York real estate tycoon, said: “The best investment on Earth is earth.”

people currently experience food insecurity across the country; reported kidnappings soared to more than 1,200 last year, more than double the number in 2021, according to the U.N.; and there were 2,200 homicides in 2022, a dramatic increase over 2021.

The issue that confronts the international community in its desire to be helpful to Haiti is both the lack of meaningful, inclusionary dialogue and a genuine national consensus on the way forward within Haiti, as well as no clear terms under which external forces would be invited into Haiti and by whom; how would such a force be organized and financed; under whose authority would it function and with what mandate and immunity.

In the meantime, it should be acknowledged that the U.S. and Canada are deploying logistical assistance to the Haitian National Police. In the circumstances, it is better than doing nothing.

However, no one should lose sight of the fact that, apart from dictatorships in Haiti, two countries bear the greatest respon-

sibility for that country’s condition – France and the U.S. Outside of an agreed multinational military intervention, they should use their considerable influence within Haiti to encourage national consensus on their path forward, including how to deal with the criminal power of the gangs.

CARICOM Heads of Government meet in their regular session in The Bahamas from February 15 to 17. Undoubtedly, Haiti will be on their agenda. They will have to consider the ways in which they can act to be helpful to the people of Haiti within the limits of their capacity.

Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com

You Just Have to Love ‘Em! Not Just Another Pet Story

beings. Though not a farmer, he had sheep, goats, horses, sugar cane, bananas, citrus fruits, and other edibles on another property. Those animals were not pets. The sheep and goats were for food he often shared with the extended family at Christmas and other special times. And the horses, you may wonder, well, as much as I loved a great ride, those were not pets but race horses that worked at the local Hobby Horse Race Track in Nassau. My love for animals has never waned, though, over the years, I have never considered having a pet to add to my already long list of responsibilities as an adult. This is perhaps why it is strange to see our youngest son do so fabulously well with pets that he began pet sitting on the island. His clients, some of whom have rescued dogs, call him the dog whisperer, and can’t believe he did not grow up with a slew of animals.

If you can’t care for them, why have them?

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

I totally get how people feel a closeness to their pets. As a child, there were always animals around. We probably had a minimum of four dogs at a time, a seemingly fresh litter of kittens every year, and a fish tank that we completely destroyed by adding fish from the sea to our freshwater collection. The kittens were on the wild side and never really stopped to allow you to pet them, but they let us know when they were hungry and often forced their way into the kitchen to see if they could help themselves if we didn’t get the hunger memo. It was a lovely time of our lives with six siblings and dogs we considered a part of the family. When we left home, daddy would always shout, “on guard, Twinkle,” or whatever dog trailed behind us. There was a chicken coop in the backyard, which we found pretty amusing for the years we enjoyed their company. Those we admired from outside the fence, we didn’t pet them as I now see children holding them and lovingly caring for them as you would any other pet. Our mother would collect the eggs the snakes left behind, and we would repeat the visit the next day.

Though in Nassau, our life in some respects was somewhat like what many folks on the Family Islands experienced. Daddy wanted us to taste farm or island life as he did as a child, and he thought it important to teach us how to care for animals. It was his way of teaching us how to be responsible and kind to human

I cannot understand why so many people who have pets choose not to take care of them. Rather than spay or neuter their pets, they would rather separate the pups from their mother, place them in a box and toss them in the road or the garbage dump. Then there are those who leave their dog chained in the sun with hardly any shelter, day after day, with little to no water. And how do you not allow your dog time to stretch its legs at least once a week? Sadly, it seems like bathing pets, whether a house dog or a yard pet, is no longer considered a necessity. There seems to be a growing number of dogs that roam the streets, some with collars, others without, and most in need of a good old-fashioned bath and a de-ticking regimen. It’s sad to see the dogs—some may have once been cute puppies, now only a shell of their former selves, with locks and, in many cases, the mange. Even dogs want to be clean and refreshed. It’s a delight to drive through some local settlements to see several dogs chilling in the low tide allowing the soft lapping of the waves to wash over them. I’ve yet to meet a dog who doesn’t enjoy this.

Many dog lovers or pet owners are unaware that we have laws about dogs on the street. But even if it is not the law for a dog to be walked with a collar and a leash, you would think it a simple courtesy to others to place one on. After all, not everyone knows and trusts your pet as you do. Someone with many rescued dogs would often let their dogs loose for a good run, even after cautioning about the discomfort to others. She eventually stopped, but before she did, walking in the yard had become an unpleasant minefield of her dog’s excrement. As a courtesy to others, perhaps you can walk your dog on a leash and travel with your pooper scooper if he wanders into someone’s yard to leave a scented deposit.

Consideration of others in the neighborhood

Dogs bark, and not every bark is a threat. Many times, they are just having a chat. You can tell when a

dog is having a good time barking or when he is raising the alarm for you to stay away. Some dogs, however, are chronic yappers who disturb the peace day and night. If you have dogs and live in a small community, you should consider that many people are working from home these days. That means zoom or telephone calls and the works. If your dogs fit that bill, you may want to consider purchasing a device that would stop them from barking incessantly so the rest of the neighborhood can enjoy the serenity they’ve come to love about Eleuthera.

If you pass a dog and he’s excited to see you, don’t panic, and don’t agitate them by throwing rocks or other articles at them, especially if they are confined to a yard. On several occasions, I watched guests who were obvious dog lovers go to a neighbor’s yard, politely open the gate and let the dog out. Not only is that presumptuous, but it is dangerous. Fortunately, the dog knew me and ran into our yard, refusing to go with his human liberators. Some have many dogs, and they are allowed to roam the neighborhood at will. These dogs root up gardens, relieve themselves, and sometimes serenade the neighbors throughout the night. As a courtesy to your neighbors, you should consider enclosing your yard to secure your dog for the sake of peace in the neighborhood. If your neighbor wanted a dog, they would get one of their own.

The plight of rescued dogs

It’s sad to see the increase of rescued dogs on the rise. That means these pets are being abused. It’s no wonder the animals are turning around and hurting people. It seems they may have gotten their start from us humans. If you may not have considered it, abusing an animal is cruel. Pain hurts whether you are a human or an animal, and animals don’t usually forget their abusers. Many dogs, especially females, are also nurturing and kind. If need be, they will protect your children from you. As children, we pretended to spank each other to see what the dogs would do. Well, Twinkle, our golden Labrador, would have none of it. She was quick to intervene. I recently watched a video of a dog rescued from a riverbank with two of her pups. When she got safely to dry land, she heard her third pup squealing. That brave mama dog ran past her rescuers and endured the rough river conditions to get to her remaining puppy. Grabbing the puppy by the neck, she plunged into the cold water and returned to where her pups awaited her. A crowd had gathered to see this life lesson play out as the cold and wet mama dog pressed her way through the onlookers with her three pups in tow. Dogs are amazing. They are loyal and compassionate and deserve much better treatment than many of us are giving them. If you have a dog and it has become too much for you to care for, you can consider the following:

• Put it up for adoption,

• Ask your family to help you with it,

• Hire someone to walk the dog several times weekly,

• Allow someone to pop by and bathe or groom your dog monthly,

• And if they need to go to the vet, hire someone to take them.

Sometimes the help you need is in plain sight. All you need to do is look up and take action.

Teri M. Bethel

‘Digital Villages’ Pilot Initiative launched for Eleuthera - FAO

Representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs, and the United Nations (UN) Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) were in Eleuthera on Wednesday, February 8th, 2023 to introduce and launch a “Digital Villages Initiative”, with the stated purpose of digitizing food and agriculture chains, involving farmers, fisherfolk, as well as agroprocessors and crafters.

The group included, Dr. Crispin Moreira, FAO Country Representative; Kentisha Ward, Project Coordinator for the Digital Villages Initiative; Jeri Kelly-Russell, Ministry of Agriculture Policy and Program Officer and FAO National Correspondent, as well as Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Julia

officials on island

Presenter during the midday introductory meeting hosted at Worker’s House in Governor’s Harbour on that Wednesday, Ms. Kentisha Ward with the FAO, discussed what digital agricultural tools were, how emerging digital technologies are being used to improve small-scale farmers’ access to resources and markets, how digital tools could improve the efficiency of farming operations and increase productivity, and how digital agriculture could help to build resilient communities.

The pilot program in Eleuthera, with a budget of $200,000, was described as a catalytic project, by presenter Jeri Kelly, with the Ministry of Agriculture. Further meetings and feedback from farmers, fisherfolk and crafters would hone the focus on develop-

ing at least one digital innovation on the island by the end of 2023, she shared, with the expectation that this initial project would spinoff into further innovations and advances in the local industries.

“The purpose of today’s meeting was to reach out to the Eleuthera community - farmers, fisherfolk and crafters - to inform them of the upcoming Digital Villages Initiative - which involves encompassing technology into the farming and production process,” said Ms. Ward. “So, for example - farmers who want to scale up their production, technology is available to increase the speed of production - for fishermen to complete record keeping and to ensure that they are making the right amount of revenue for the right amount of catch, and so on.”

Above: Kentisha Ward, Project Coordinator with the FAO’s Digital Villages Initiative.

In Memory - 100 Year Old Serviceman Honoured in Gregory Town; Passes soon after

mour, married to Mr. Neymour for the past 69 years, on the Thursday expressed her pride for her husband’s milestone, and appreciation for all the love shown by friends who stopped in to share their birthday greetings.

World War II veteran, Mr. Jeremiah Neymour, of Gregory Town, Central Eleuthera, who celebrated his 100th birthday on Thursday, January 19th, 2023, passed away late on Sunday evening, January 22nd - just a few days later.

Before he passed, the celebration on his 100th birthday was a sizeable one, with community members, family friends, and even a class of students from the local primary school, stop-

ping in to wish him a happy birthday. As the oldest registered living Bahamian World War II veteran on his 100th birthday, representatives from the Bahamas Branch of the British Legion - Adena Munroe-Charlow, and Vanessa Jones from the British High Commission in New Providence, also made a special trip to Gregory Town, to celebrate with Mr. Neymour and his wife.

83 year-old Mrs. Yvonne Ney-

Shown: (Caption) - Jeremiah Neymour proudly displaying his WWII medallion in a 2016 photo to accompany his Eleutheran Newspaper Profile. (Top) Primary students from the Gregory Town Primary school joined in singing happy birthday, as World War II veteran, Mr. Jeremiah Neymour turned 100-years-old. (Second) - Central Eleuthera Administrator Earl Campbell, MP Petty’s wife, Mrs. Ocilia Petty, Adena Munroe-Charlow, from the Bahamas Branch of the British Legion, and Vanessa Jones from the British High Commission stand next to the ceremonial cake, cut in celebration of Mr. Neymour’s monumental milestone on the day.

Elite Customs Brokers

Disney hosts Meet & Greet to provide an Update to the Community

At a Meet and Greet event hosted by Disney Cruise Lines on Thursday afternoon, February 9th, 2023 at the Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce’s I-Hub in Rock Sound, Disney executives, as well as representatives from contractor American Bridge were on hand to take questions from community members on the current status of the project and discuss open opportunities with the development.

Joey Gaskins, Regional Public Affairs Director with Disney Cruise Line, in an interview during the event, shared, “We are in the thick of our construction stage right now. It was delayed by the pandemic, so we are moving very quickly to operation sometime next year (2024). What is really important for the public to know from my perspective is that there are job and subcontracting oppor-

tunities still available through our design/build firm American Bridge who is leading the work at Lighthouse Point right now.

“We want to encourage local vendors, those who are looking for employment in the construction field, and subcontractors in the areas where we are still looking, to please feel free to reach out to us, or to me personally to ask any questions. We want to ensure that opportunity is spread far and wide throughout the community.

He continued, “We are making good progress now, and clearing of the property is pretty much completed. When I say clearing out, a lot of people imagine large swathes of land cleared, but we have been very surgical around the clearing of the property, and ensuring that we keep native plants and

endangered plant species well protected - moved off site and put into a nursery, where they can be replaced to maintain the biodiversity of that site.

“We are making good progress on the

‘back of house’ construction right now, and like I said we are looking forward to an opening sometime next year. Our partners are working quite hard to get the site P38

Above: CSE MP Minister Clay Sweeting in discussions with Disney Cruise Line Representatives and Contractor American Bridge on their progress, time lines and opportunities.

First Annual Eye of the Tiger Tennis Tourney Hosted in Palmetto Point On the Courts in 2023!

The Eleuthera Tennis Association (ETA) hosted its first tournament in 2023, a doubles teams event, on Saturday, February 4th, 2023 at the Knowles Courts facility in Palmetto Point, called the 1st Annual ‘Eye of

the Tiger’ Doubles Tennis Tournament.

A small opening ceremony was held on the Saturday morning ahead of play, where plaques of appreciation were presented by ETA presi-

dent, Mr. Hartie ‘Artie’ Johnson to Mr. Austin Knowles Jr. in recognition of his generous sponsorship of his courts location for the use of both tennis tournaments and summer tennis camps and other outreach for many years. HG Christie was also recognized for their generous sponsorship of the event and participants and organizers Elisa Herbst and Sarah Brie were singled out for touting the idea of hosting the tournament taking place on the day.

Participation was strong, with competitors, including local and winter residents, taking part from all

over the island - from Harbour Island in the north to Wemyss Bight in the south, and all in between, as well as a number of tennis aficionados traveling in from New Providence to enjoy a weekend of play in beautiful Eleuthera.

The official results saw the team of Kevin Cooper and Kevin Major take the top spot in the men’s doubles final. Runners up in the men’s doubles were Tom Glucksmann and George Brewer.

Ladies doubles champions were Richette Percentie and Kayla P39

Above: Mr. Austin Knowles Jr. presented with a plaque of recognition and appreciation for the generous use of his court facilities. Far right: HG Christie rep. accepting a plaque for the company’s valuable sponsorship. Right center: Elisa Herbst and Sarah Brie, were thanked for their vision for the tournament and the part they played in its organization.

Above: Ladies doubles champions, Kayla Dean and Richette Percentie (center) receiving their trophies from coach Artie Johnson (right) and Vonnette Carey.

January Sets the Bar High for CTI

The first month of the year brought a whirlwind of activity to the Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) campus in Rock Sound. From the sounds of Wedding Bells to Junkanoo Cowbells, the recent surge of energy, festivities and celebrations on campus have brought back familiar memories of past One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) Earth Day Festivals and rekindled collaborative partnerships committed to promoting local culture, entrepreneurship and community engagement. In addition to serving as a fulltime student training campus for students of CTI to fulfil their practical training in hospitality, agriculture, culinary, and construction trades, the campus is also a community hub for meetings, events, festivals, weddings and other social activities. The campus continues to expand and play a pivotal role in fostering economic and social development, and the expansion of Eleuthera’s orange economy.

Wedding Bliss

On Saturday, January 7th CTI celebrated its first wedding and the nuptials of Mr. and Mrs. Akeem and Vashti

Johnson. The young couple who both have strong Eleuthera roots, chose the CTI campus for their one-stop, islandchic destination wedding. The romantic garden-style ceremony and poolside reception was attended by over 150 plus guests, and catered in-house by Head Chef, Jasmine Jones from CTI’s Farmer’s Table restaurant. The campus grounds were transformed with elegant flair and provided the convenience of

on-site hotel rooms for the newlyweds, bridal party and immediate family to relax, rest and recharge in close vicinity. Wedding guests danced and celebrated the special event into the wee hours of the morning before embarking on an island-wide afternoon tour with family and friends to enjoy the sights and charm of Eleuthera.

Staff Farewell and Appreciation Cocktail Reception

On January 27th, we celebrated a bittersweet occasion – our Staff Appreciation and Farewell Cocktail Party for three exceptional employees who each made a significant impact to OEF and CTI. Audrey Carey, Hotel,

Left: Attending the Staff Appreciation and Farewell Event: Shaun Ingraham, President and CEO, OEF, Maisie Thompson, Kenwood Cartwright, Sue Culmer, Finance Manager, and Mario Smith, Chairman OEF. P38

Restaurant and Facilities Officer, Maisie Thompson, Outreach Coordinator and Kenwood Cartwright, IT Officer & System Administrator, were each honoured for their indelible service and advancement of OEF and CTI’s mission. Paying tribute to Audrey, Susan Culmer, Finance Manager reflected on Audrey’s incredible leadership and contribution in laying a strong foundation for the organization to build upon as well as her sincere compassion for her staff and work family. Reflecting on his love and appreciation for the organization Kenwood expressed, “In many ways I feel that my time and experiences at OEF/CTI have directed, shaped, and prepared me to advance into my new role as the Island Administrator for Grand Bahama. OEF and CTI will always be home and close to my heart and of course I won’t be far away.” Celebrated for her empathy, strong community ties and willingness to help those in need, Masie

Above: CTI Wedding Bliss! Presenting Mr. and Mrs. Akeem and Vashti Johnson.

Ground Broken for Erection of an ‘HMBS Flamingo Incident’ Memorial Monument in Hatchet Bay

A survivor of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force vessel, HMBS Flamingo, which was shot upon and sunk by Cuban fighter jets in 1980, Mr. Cladwell Farrington Jr. of Hatchet Bay, Central Eleuthera - not only wrote a book about the incident, through the eyes of a surviving crew member, but has also been an advocate for the building of a memorial monument in Hatchet, to both preserve the historical significance of the event, and to honour the memories of the fallen, as well as the survivors who served, a number of whom hailed from the settlement of Hatchet Bay.

During recent months, Mr. Farrington and his team of committee members, were successful in approaching the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC), about securing a space of land for the erection of the monument, as well as garnering the support of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, and many others connected to the event, for the building of the memorial monument in Hatchet Bay.

BAIC Executive Chairman, Mr. Leroy Major, MP for Central and South Eleuthera, Minister Clay Sweeting, as well as former Commodore Clifford ‘Butch’ Scavella were all present in support of the groundbreaking ceremony which was held on Friday morning, January 27th, 2023, for ‘The Flamingo Memorial Monument’, which is planned for the park space at the entrance of Hatchet Bay, located opposite the township’s homecoming site.

The ceremony brought together members of the Hatchet community and those connected with survivors and with Mr. Farrington’s undaunted efforts to keep the memories of the incident alive.

Minister Clay Sweeting in remarks during the ceremony, shared, “It’s amazing how tragedy has a way of bringing us all together, in unfortunate situations. It has a way of exposing our weaknesses and vulnerabilities. When the former Prime Minister

Pindling and his team pushed for the creation of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, some people

Pictured Above: Mr. Cladwell Farrington Jr. (center right) stands with CSE MP Minister Clay Sweeting, community members, supporters, family and friends of Eleutheran survivors. Also present were BAIC Chairman, Mr. Leroy Major (far left) and former Commodore Clifford Scavella (second from right). On Right: Father John Johnson opens the ground breaking ceremony in prayer. Below: An artist’s (Levarrick King) rendition of the planned memorial monument for the fallen and survivors of the HMBS Flamingo. P22

Cotton Bay StakeholderS Meeting

ing 2024.”

The Cotton Bay project, situated to the south of the Rock Sound township, was described as an ultra-luxury resort and residential development, expected to feature a range of amenities and services. “It will be a low density resort, with 90 guest rooms and 60 [Ritz-Carlton Reserve] branded residences, an 18-hole championship golf course, with signature restaurants, swimming pools, and a lavish spa. It will be very indigenous, very local, very unique - so when you walk on the property, you will actually know that you are in Eleuthera. You will know where you are in the world. That’s the whole feel and design of the brand we have engaged to develop,” said Mr. Zuleta.

The Cotton Bay Ritz-Carlton Reserve, he added, will span approximately 220 acres of the 400-acre property. The estimated investment for the

project is more than USD$200 million. Proceeding in stages, the development, is said now to be in the current phase 1, comprised of design and pre-construction activities. Phase 2 will be the construction stage, which is expected to last at least 24 months and stimulate 300 direct jobs - to provide $8 million annually in wages. Once operational, the resort plans to employ 200 Bahamians with wages of $10 million per annum.

During the meeting, Mr. Zuleta and his team emphasized their commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the environment and the unique eco-system of the property. The project has retained Waypoint Consulting Ltd. as environmental consultants to develop their Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environmental Management Plan (EMP) - working with the design teams and the Ministry of Environment and Housing’s Department of Environmental Planning and Protection (DEPP).

Minister Sweeting along with other government agency heads at the meeting brought up issues of waste management plans during construction as well as during operation, sourcing local agricultural and other suppliers once up and running, and a number of other issues of concern. They also agreed to work closely with the developers, including calling future stakeholder meetings at certain milestones, to ensure seamless approvals at the local level.

“Mr. Zuleta was able to give us a report... I think this is good to get different stakeholders, with local government, Ministry of Works, Ministry of Environmentthat approves projects like this, all in one

room, to see where they are and what they are looking for to get the project moving more quickly - and to update the council as well. That was the main objective today... That’s how you streamline government processes. So, instead of a three, four step process, you bring everybody together, and say ‘this is what we are going to apply for - please update us if there is something we may need - or some advice on how to get it done quicker’, and that’s what we were able to accomplish today,” shared Minister Sweeting.

Above: Managing Director of Cotton Bay Holdings Limited, Mr. Daniel Zuleta (center in white), met with MP Clay Sweeting (center left) and a cross-section of local stakeholders, to update on the status of the project and projected time lines.

FlaMingo MeMorial / hatChet Bay

rewrite history for us, and tell us only the parts they want us to know.”

argued against it, calling it unnecessary and a waste of money. However, this unfortunate incident was a catalyst proving that the establishment of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force was extremely necessary to defend our borders, and without it our people have no protection from outside forces.”

Speaking about the current celebrations of The Bahamas’ 50 years

as an independent nation, he added, “Many of us now have the opportunity to relive history, and hear about ancestral experiences through many mediums. Today is an indicator, that we as a small nation of islands, understand the phrase - ‘silence ensures that history repeats itself’. If we fail to talk about our past, if we fail to acknowledge our mistakes, if we fail to tell our side of the story - someone will

He went on to relay a story of his grandfather, who was a fisherman during the time of the Flamingo incident, who had also come under attack by Cubans during his excursions to the outerbanks fishing grounds - with bullet holes in his boat to show for it. Sweeting highlighted the full circle of how the same men who would be memorialized by the monument, were protecting fishermen, like his grandfather at that time. “Out of respect for how you [Mr. Farrington] played a role in protecting the fishermen, and possibly my very own grandfather, it would be remiss of me to not come here and show my respect and love for the role that the Royal Bahamas Defence Force plays, and the role that you played during that time in our history. I am here to support and ensure that this happens... I

am excited to see when this is completed.” Mr. Sweeting pledged the first $1,000 toward the building of the monument from the constituency fund, and encouraged others to follow - to make sure the memorial takes shape.

Leroy Major, Executive Chairman with BAIC, who assisted with making the land chosen for the Memorial Monument available, also brought remarks during the ceremony: “Today, we look at this as a community monument, but in time to come, this will be a national monument, something we can all be proud of.” He lauded Mr. Farrington for his undaunted efforts to keep the memories of the Flamingo Incident alive, along with acknowledgement for those who perished, and the men who survived.

“It is my vision to see people from Nassau coming to see this memorial - other fam-

Above: Soil tossed, as Flamingo survivor, Mr. Cladwell Farrington Jr. digs in, accompanied by Administrator Campbell, Minister Sweeting, former Commodore Clifford Scavella, and BAIC Chairman - Mr. Major, during the ceremonial ground breaking.

ily members who have an attachment to those who went down in the Flamingo - to see this. This is what we need. People from all over the world come to Rawson Square, in Nassau, and they see Queen Victoria. I want people to come to Hatchet Bay, and see our heroes.” Mr. Major added that whatever BAIC could do to ensure that this happens, they would do it.

Former Commodore Scavella, also weighed in during the ceremony, reminiscing his formative years of being influenced by Mr. Farrington as a marine - and inspired to also join the Defence Force. He further declared his support for the initiative and invited others to lend theirs as well. “I am supporting Cladwell in this vision, and I hope all of you will continue to support him. We hope that at the end of the day, this monument will be something for the Bahamian people’s eyes to behold, where we can all come and share solemn mo-

ments, adoration, and committing to being the memory of those people who have gone on before us. Thank you for supporting Cladwell.”

Following the ceremony, which also saw baritone renditions by the Baymen Cousins, a performance by students of the P.A. Gibson Primary school, recollections of Hatchet Bay history by Pastor Eric Johnson, unveiling of plans, a turning of the soil, and a number of other greetings and shows of support - Mr. Cladwell Farrington Jr., expressed that the day was like a dream come true. He recalled the years of planning, sleepless nights, and setbacks, but was overjoyed to see ‘reality in action’. “I couldn’t do it without the people around me - my wife, my family, my daughters, the community, the Defence Force - Mr. Raymond King and his team. They stood by my side. As well as, Mr. Clay Sweeting and his team. Mr. Major, who afforded us the property. My good friend, Former Commodore Clifford Scavella, Former Commodore Tellis Bethel, and our committee team, and all others who continue to support.”

Mr. Farrington said that he looks forward to the memorial monument tranforming the park, and being a place that would attract Bahamians to learn more

about their history. ‘Because of May 10th, 1980’, a book published on the Flamingo Incident by Mr. Cladwell Farrington Jr., is available for purchase by the public, for those interested in knowing more about what happened, through the eyes of an actual crew member.

Pictured: Students in salute as they pledge their allegiance to the Bahamian flag.

Russell Island WateR supply

Water and Sewerage. I know the issues that Eleuthera has been facing for many years. So, I said ‘this is a blessing, and I am going to use the power that the government gave me to make a difference. So, when I leave office, I want to make sure to leave Eleuthera in a position that everyone can be proud of, as far as potable water is concerned...”

He added, “We’ve spent in excess of $7 million so far, in fifteen months, to correct all of the things that need to be corrected, and to make sure that when you get home from work, and you turn the tap onyou are confident that the water will flow. Right now we are on a positive path to make sure that all of these problems that we have in Eleuthera right now will be solved within the next several months.”

Chairman Petty continued, “Modu-tanks have been completed in both North (Lower Bogue Plant) and Central Eleuthera (Naval Base Plant) - we have storage tanks of 500,000 gallons each. So, right now we have a lot of storage, which will give us some breathing room in the event that the plant goes down. We have at least 4 days of storage in those modu-tanks. We have also bought two 1.5 million gallons storage tanks, which should be here in April, and would take approximately two months to be erected. We should then have no issues with

storage. Now we have to increase our production capacity. We have two desalination units coming with production capacity of approximately 250,000 gallons per day, which will help greatly with the production and storage in Eleuthera. Once we get those up and running, and our storage tanks erected, we should have no water issues at all in Eleuthera.”

WSC General Manager, Mr. Robert Deal, in an overview of works undertaken and being completed throughout The Eleutheras, shared, “Essentially we are carrying out works across North and Central Eleuthera, primarily focused at this point on upgrading the desalination operations to improve their reliability, but we are also improving the production capacity. So, we expect in short order, you will see an increase in our production capacity at our plants at the Naval Base - and in several more months a further expansion at the Lower Bogue plant. Also, both plants at the Naval Base and Lower Bogue, we are going to be increasing the storage capacity. Storage is important to ensure that if there are any challenges at the desalination plant, water that is in storage can be taken out of storage and put into the supply - that’s the reason we need sufficient storage...

“We will also be improving the storage capacity on Harbour Is-

Pictured above: N.E. MP Mr. Sylvanus Petty, with students of the Wellington Preparatory school in Spanish Wells, as he is presented with a handmade gift.

Below: Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis (left) stand with MP Sylvanus Petty (right), N.E. Administrator Stephen Wilson, and Spanish Wells resident as he arrives in Eleuthera to mark the potable water service on Russell Island. Above: Water & Sewerage employees who worked to get the job done.

Above: Prime Minister Philip Davis’ entourage on the tarmac in North Eleuthera. Below: PM Davis, along with Minister Sweeting, Minister Sears and Water & Sewerage Corporation executives and local government representatives, taking a first drink at the commissioned faucet, demonstrating the potable quality of the water.

land. Presently, Harbour Island has one single 250,000 gallon tank, and that is leaking and has challenges. So, we will be installing two new 250,000 gallon tanks, doubling the capacity. Also, the existing tank here in Spanish Wells, shortly we will be refurbishing that tank to ensure that it is in good order. So, we are carrying out works here in Harbour Island, Spanish Wells, at Lower Bogue and at the Naval Base.

“Eleuthera will see consistent works in North and Central Eleuthera over the next few years to improve the reliability of our operations, and also to expand water to customers who may not presently have water supply.”

Detailing the expected timeline for the upgraded production and storage capacity in North and Central Eleuthera, Mr. Roberts added, “We expect the storage works to be completed by this summer - 2023 (1.5 million imperial gallons in potable water storage tanks for the Bogue and another 1.5 million imperial gallons for the Naval Base).”

He continued, “Also, very substantial production capacity work, with respect particularly to the Naval Base in the next few months are to be completed, and later in the summer in terms of North Eleuthera (Two desalination plants with a combined capacity of approximately 260,000 imperial gallons per day have arrived in New Providence and are presently being cleared. It is expected that these units will be shipped to the Naval Base facility shortly and will be fully operational by late April 2023, increasing the overall production capacity of that plant from the present 450,000 gallons per day to 710,000 gallons per day. At the Bogue, the plan is to increase the production capacity from 600,000 gallons per day to 800,000 gallons per day. WSC executives are awaiting the Contractor’s formal timeline on those works.).

“The idea is for this year to have substantial improvement at both Lower Bogue and Naval Base operations.”

Top: Graceful dance duo entertain during the water commissioning ceremony. Bottom Clockwise: Supt. Knowles greets a resident; Audience appreciating a performance by students of the Wellington Preparatory school. MP Sylvanus Petty stops for a photo opportunity with his siblings Donna and Therese, joined by a colleague. Viante Johnson, Officer Munroe, and Amanda Kemp - out on break, to catch a glimpse of PM Davis as he arrives on island.

Celebrating Excellence: Preston H. Albury High School Awards !

Preston H. Albury High School celebrated with students and staff at their prefect installation, honour roll awards, teacher cadets and nurse cadets recognition ceremony, hosted on the grounds of the school on Thursday morning, January 26th, 2023.

The theme for the morning’s awards event was, ‘progressing one step at a time’. The program, which got underway at 9:30 a.m., was opened in prayer and with the national anthem and pledge recited by all, before Head Boy, Ashton Butler, welcomed the healthy crowd of parents and community members out to support their achieving students.

Principal Sharon Scott, embattled by recent administrative and disciplinary challenges at the school, stood tall and noted that despite challenges, all could be overcome with the help of God, and she congratulated the students who would be recognized for numerous achievements during the morning. She also challenged those students who had not quite made it as yet to continue to push and press on, encouraging them, that they could achieve their goal, one step at a time.

Guest speaker on the morning was Pastor Jerome Hill, who brought a powerful message about the mean-

Above: Preston H. Albury Principal, Ms. Sharon Scott, delivering her address to the audience of students, parents and colleagues on the proud morning.

Pictured above: Student leaders being pinned by their proud parents. Below: Honour Roll students confidently rowed off awaiting their awards.

ing of true leadership, impressing upon the students that - doing the correct and appropriate things, even when no one is watching - is a key characteristic of a good leader. His message targeted all students, and especially student leaders at all levels in the school, from prefects to academic leaders, and those choosing to take part in programs like the teaching and nursing cadets. He advised students that whatever goals they had, they should expect that there would be those people in life who would want to help them, hurt them or hinder them. Using the story of Joseph from the Bible’s Old Testament, he illustrated how Joseph dealt with all those different types of people, through his faith in God, and his decisions to do the right or appropriate things, even when no one was watching.

Student leaders, chosen to be prefects at the Preston H. Albury High School marched in, performing a practiced drill session, to the delight of the audience, and recited their prefect pledge. Parents and guardians were then invited to get involved by coming as a group to the front stage to pin their students with their prefect pins.

The select students from the P30

Education Beat

Pictured: Principal Sharon Scott (left), stands with top prefects, including (L-R) Deputy Head BoyHoward Cunningham, Head Boy - Ashton Butler, Head Girl - Lynette Farrington, Deputy Head Girl - Sarai Lafrance, and Head Prefect - Shavana Basden.

Above: Following their pinning and installation as prefects, new student leaders at the Preston H. Albury High School proudly display their certificates. Below: Pastor Jerome Hill of Fountain of Life Ministries, challenges the student body to be leaders of their own paths, as they make good decisions, and do the right and appropriate things, even when no one is looking.

Education Beat

pReston H. albuRy Hs aWaRds

nette Farrington, Delores Cooper, Shavana Basden, Shauntae Hall, Bernette Leary, Jahnea Seymour, and Jatonia Bethel. Program advisors were Nurse Frazier and Mrs. Tamika Rahming. Honour Roll awards, were a highlight of the morning and students who had put in the work and achieved the benchmark 3.0 grade point average and above were recognized and awarded.

Students were awarded for their academic performance in both the Summer and Christmas terms of 2022.

Summer term Principal’s List awardees (3.5 gpa and above) included: De’Anntae Hepburn, Davonte Johnson, Bernette Leary, Taequanna Curry, Nathalia Saunders, and Lynette Farrington.

Summer term Honour Roll awardees (3.0 gpa and above) included: Riannah Laramore, Carmille Bain, Drenyah Richards, Caleb Carey, Tyreka

school, chosen to lead amongst their peers included: Head Boy – Ashton Butler, Head Girl – Lynette Farrington, Deputy Head Boy – Howard Cunningham, Deputy Head Girl – Sarai Lafrance, and Head Prefect –Shavana Basden, as well as Prefects - Tamiya Johnson, Jaydawn Goodman, Deniqua Richards, Rhandesha Mackey, Bernette Leary, Taequanna Curry, Shania Newbold, Calantha Hall, Tianna Cash, Shontavia Cash, Navaeh Sweeting, Fredrica Morley, Gia Morley, Tyreka Smith, Nathalia

Saunders, Jatonia Bethel, Shauntae Hall, Selena Ingraham, Caleb Carey and Roshawn Munroe.

Teacher cadets, and nurses cadets were then also pinned by the teachers and advisors leading those programs.

Teacher cadets included: Bernette Leary, Nathalia Saunders, Taequanna Curry, Navaeh Sweeting and Gia Morley - who were being mentored by teacher advisors - Ms. Raquel Coleby, Ms. Nina Greene, and Ms. Anthonice Finley.

Nurses cadets included: Ly -

Smith, Jatonia Bethel, Fredrica Morley, Roshawn Munroe, Tamiya Johnson, Tashae McDonald, Michaela Dorsett, Michaela Carey, Kelisha Rolle, Jaydawn Goodman, Shontavia Cash, Gia Morley, Sarai LaFrance, and Shavana Basden.

Christmas term Principal’s List awardees (3.5 gpa and above) were: Frank Lafrance, Simmia Lafleur, Zavion McCoy, Tashae McDonald, Michaela Dorsett, De’Anntae Hepburn, Kelisha Rolle, Salihah Forbes, Davonte Johnson, Jaydawn Goodman, Shontavia Cash, Bernette Leary, Taequanna Curry, Gia Morley, Nathalia Saunders, Garinique Delancy, Sarai LaFrance, Shavana Basden, Selena Ingraham and Lynette Farrington.

Christmas term Honour Roll awardees (3.0 gpa and above) included: Sanaya Hall, Aulicia Meadows, Jada Moxey, Quinton Carey, Bri -ana Joseph, Anaiyah Johnson, Riannah Laramore, Nahjee Sy-

Pictured above: The Preston H. Albury school community paid tribute to long-standing staff member, Ms. Carolyn Ferguson, who served 25 years at the school.

Pictured above: Proud family members mark the moment with 12th grader, Shavana Basden, as she receives her principal’s list certificate. Seen below: High achievers group of principal’s list certificate recipients for the 2022 Christmas term at Preston H. Albury High School.

monette, Onesha Tynes, Devano Miller, Amia Mackey, Delena Rolle, Michaela Carey, Carmille Bain, Dara Archer, Jaliyah Hepburn, Cortez Bullard, T’Coya Morley, Clinique Rolle, Jayda Burrows, Drenyah Richards, Christen Horton, Caleb Carey, Keantae Cartwright, Carmelo Knowles, Naveah Sweeting, Cherica Jean-Baptiste, Courtliyah Whylly, Calantha Hall, Lanicia Thompson, Tianna Cash, Tyreka Smith, Jatonia Bethel, Delores Cooper, Fredrica Morley, Roshawn Munroe, Tamiya Johnson, Rhandesha Mackey, Precious Brown, Nathan Sweeting, Arriana Knowles, Joshua Cooper, Shauntae Hall, and Ashton Butler.

Ms. Carolyn Ferguson, who had given 25 years of service to the Preston H. Albury High School, as a part of the custodial staff was also honoured on the Thursday morning as she retires, with a chorale performance done in her honour, a song selection, and a presentation of numerous gifts and baskets, in thanks and appreciation.

Education Beat

Pictured above: Parents proudly pin students leaders, Head Girl - Lynette Farrington, and Head Prefect - Shavana Basden. Seen below: High achievers group of junior high school honour roll certificate recipients for the 2022 Christmas term at Preston H. Albury High School.

Pictured above: New nurse cadets welcomed into the program which prepare them to study nursing at the tertiary level if they choose to do so. Below: Teacher cadets are also welcomed into a similar program for that career path.

Samuel Guy Pinder All Age Earns Top Spot in 2023 District Spelling Bee Championship

Excitement teemed in the air as students and coaches from both primary and high schools from across Eleuthera descended on the Ministry of Education’s Resource Center facility in Savannah Sound for the 2023 Eleuthera District Spelling Bee.

Held this year under the theme, “Cultivating Competent Spellers, One Word At A Time”, the All-Island spelling competition saw students from fifteen schools take part - with an impressive contingent of forty one (41) students contesting the top spots.

Eager spellers included: Ashton Rolle (10 yrs), and Trevor Forbes (10 yrs) from James’ Cistern primary; Breona Sineus (10 yrs), Eva Ajul (10 yrs), Aneya Thompson (9 yrs), and Cholaine Frederic (12 yrs - alternate speller) from Emma E. Cooper primary; Danetia Smith (10 yrs), Hallie Horton (12 yrs), and Knahla Mackey (12 yrs) from Rock Sound primary; Wes Underwood (13 yrs), Kye Higgs (11 yrs), and Aurora Knowles (10 yrs) from Samuel Guy Pinder all-age; Laila Goodman (11 yrs), Camren Carey (11 yrs), Trayvon Capron (10 yrs), and Taniya Rahming (10 yrs - alternate speller); Shannico Whitfield (12 yrs), Jashayla Lewis (12 yrs) and Angel Joseph (11 yrs) from Harbour Island all-age; Eliana Green (9 yrs), Gabriel Fox (8 yrs), Jahneil Charlton (10 yrs), and Demari Mortimer (10 yrs - alternate speller) from Emily G. Petty primary; Syrai McHardy (11 yrs), Perry Sands (12 yrs), Azariah Moss (12 yrs) and Leah Joseph (12 yrs - alternate speller) from North Eleuthera high school; Alexia Miller (11 yrs), Alfrenique Bethel (10 yrs), and Trachon Brown (11 yrs) of Deep Creek primary; Almitra Rolle-Meeres (11 yrs), Aneillia Levy (12 yrs), and Eckward Ferguson (11 yrs) of Central Eleuthera High School; Xavier Ferguson (10 yrs), Joshua Gardiner (10 yrs), Harmonie McCardy (8 yrs), and Navaeh Johnson (11 yrs - alternate speller) from P. A. Gibson primary; Geneva Ellison (10 yrs), Hadassah Stubbs (13 yrs), and Joel Simmons Jr. (11 yrs) of Harbour Island Green School; Whitney Johnson (11 yrs), Mikyle Glico (10 yrs), and Leanna Johnson (11 yrs) from Laura L. Anderson primary; Quinton Carey (11 yrs), Jada Mackey (11 yrs), Zavion McCoy (11 yrs) and Frank Lafrance (12 yrs - alternate speller) from Preston H. Albury high.

2022 Eleuthera District Spelling Bee Champion, Sohan Bryan, from Central Eleuthera High School shared reflections on his experience, as he went on to represent the island in the National Spelling Bee during March of 2022. His presentation took the audience of parents and nervous spellers on his journey of preparation, competition, success, and experience at the nationals.

Mrs. Fontella Knowles, representing District Superintendent of Education (DSE) Mr. Michael Culmer, welcomed the young competitors to the event, congratulating coaches and parents on the efforts they had put in to assist each young competitor to have made it to the day of competition.

Each contestant was asked to introduce them-

selves, and to share their favourite ‘something’, which allowed them to calm their nerves, break the ice, and even produced a number of smiles all around, as the students revealed their depths of interests and character - including budding athletes, scientists, artists and more.

Round one began, and as each student faced the microphone, parents could be seen holding their breaths. As each speller successfully said their word, or halted in error - those breaths came out as a quiet smile and sigh of relief or as a supportive gesture for students returning to their seats in the audience.

Round one saw twelve (12) of the forty-one (41) young competitors misspell their words, and rejoin the audience. A brief break ensued, with judges reviewing two appeals - which were unsuccessful. Then round two was underway with the remaining twenty-nine (29) students. Another fifteen (15) students had retaken their seats within the audience by the end of round two - succumbing to words like, ‘incontrovertible’ and ‘prophetically’ - as the other fourteen (14) moved through to round three. Round three would see a loss of just two (2) students, along with a controversial appeal, claiming an incorrect pronounciation.

After a short break, spelling resumed and the audience witnessed several nail-biting rounds with few errors tabled. However, in round seven, in a domino-effect, all remaining spellers, but three, made it through. Third place finisher, Xavier Ferguson (10 yrs) of P.A. Gibson

primary was taken out in round eight by the word ‘pedigree’.

This left Syrai McHardy (11 yrs) from North Eleuthera High School and Wes Underwood (13 yrs) from Samuel Guy Pinder All Age to battle it out for the top spot in the 2023 Eleuthera District Spelling Bee. Syrai and Wes went

Above: 2022 Eleuthera District Spelling Bee Champion, Sohan Bryan, of Central Eleuthera High School, hands the winning trophy over to new 2023 Eleuthera District Spelling Bee Champion, Wes Underwood of Samuel Guy Pinder All Age. They are accompanied by Mrs. Melinda Wallace with the Constituency Office.

Above: Jada Mackey, an 11-year-old, 7th grader at Preston H. Albury High School, having picked first spot, kicked off individual introductions as the Bee got underway. Also pictured is Moderator and former Central Eleuthera High School principal, Mrs. Marie Galanis, now a dedicated volunteer as she enjoys retirement.

head to head for the next four rounds without errors. However, in the thirteenth, the word ‘mantra’, spelled incorrectly by Syrai opened the door for Wes to take home the Championship title. He went on to correctly spell ‘hangar’, and then his winning word ‘phonics’, to earn the title of 2023 Eleuthera District Spelling Bee Winner.

Wes, who has competed in multiple grade level spelling bees since he began primary school, and no stranger to the winner’s trophy, was excited to have finally won the coveted District Spelling Bee. He will now have the opportunity to represent the island of Eleuthera in the National Spelling Bee competition, slated to take place in March 2023.

The official panel of judges, who offered their service to help make the spelling competition possible, included: Chief Judge, Mrs. Sybil Forbes; Assistant Judges, Ms. Emily Petty and Mrs. Stella Randall; Pronouncer, Mrs. Althea Gibson-Roberts; Dictionary Consultant, Mrs. Levada Ingraham; and Scorekeeper/Time Keeper, Mrs. Natasha Wallace-Gibson. Each judge was presented with a gift basket at the end of the spelling bee as a token of appreciation for their voluntary, and for many of them - longstanding service.

Coaches, who spent many weeks practicing with their students in preparation for the competition, were also recognized, with each receiving a certificate acknowledging their effort and significance. They included,

Ms. Adassa Pennerman of Emma E. Cooper primary;

Mrs. Joyann Claridge and Ms. Keanna Harvey of Rock Sound primary;

• Mr. Bevil Clarke of Samuel Guy Pinder All Age; Mrs. Gabrielle Dorsette of Tarpum Bay primary;

Mrs. A. Robinson of Harbour Island All Age;

Ms. Carlin Dean of Emily G. Petty primary school;

Ms. Sterling Johnson and Ms. Sharon Singh of North Eleuthera high;

Ms. S. Alday of Deep Creek primary;

• Mrs. Parry Sands-Culmer and Ms. Doria Scavella of Central Eleuthera high;

• Ms. R. Edgecombe of P.A. Gibson primary;

Mr. William Simmons of Harbour Island Green School; and Mrs. Sherina Saunders-Curry of Laura L. Anderson primary school.

Above: The Bee would not go on without the judges. Special thanks were given to (L-R) Natasha Wallace-Gibson, Levada Ingraham, Althea Gibson-Roberts, Sybil Forbes, Emily Petty, and Stella Randall.

Pictured above: 41 spellers in all took part in the 2023 Eleuthera District Spelling Bee - the largest contingent in many years, according to organizers with the Ministry of Education.

Above (L-R): Melinda Wallace, Constituency office; Coach Edgecombe; Third Place Winner, Xavier Ferguson of P. A. Gibson Primary; Coach Sterling Johnson; 2nd Place Winner, Syrai McHardy of North Eleuthera High School; 2023 District Spelling Bee Champion, Wes Underwood of Samuel Guy Pinder All Age; Coach Bevil Clarke; former Eleuthera District Spelling Bee Champion, Sohan Bryan of Central Eleuthera High School, and Mrs. Fontella Knowles with the Ministry of Education’s District office.

Picture This - 50th ‘Independence’ Anniversary Logo Unveiling Watch Party Held

In its series of events being hosted by the Bahamas government during the run-up to The Bahamas’ 50th Independence Anniversary Golden Jubilee celebrations in July of 2023, a national ‘logo unveiling’ ceremony was held on the evening of Thursday, January 19th, 2023. Watch parties were also held throughout the Family Islands to witness the unveiling with Eleuthera being no exception.

In the Central Eleuthera district, Administrator Earl Campbell and his team hosted a ‘Watch Party’ at the Worker’s House ballroom to witness the national unveiling. Scores of community members came out to enjoy the festive atmosphere, and Bahamian delicacies on offer for their enjoyment, while scenes of the unveiling, played out on a big screen projector by the front stage of the ballroom.

Prime Minister Philip Davis, in his address during the ceremony, stated that the future of The Bahamas was not inevitable, but one that each citizen had the power to shape, through their actions and choices. He challenged Bahamians to take up their individuals roles in the country’s national development by participating and not leaving it to others, saying, “As we celebrated, let us leave a personal legacy from this year. As we move forwards into our Golden Jubilee celebrations, I invite every person in our Bahama Island and around the world - every citizen, every resident and every friend of The Bahamas - to join me in making two pledges during this Independence year.

“Firstly: pledge to participate! Don’t just sit on the side-lines watching,... and mark Independence in your own way!... Secondly, I want you to pledge to make our country stronger. Set yourself a personal goal, to achieve something, to do something, to learn a new skill or lift yourself up in some way, so by the end of this year, you can point to a personal achievement... Whatever it is, let it be something that helps to take you closer to the vision you have for your life.” He also asked the populace what they were doing to build their communities, and suggested each one committing to to something for community to make them stronger, “If each one of us commits to doing something, then at the end of the year, in a very real and tangible way, we will live in a better Bahamas... Friends, let us make this a year to remember.”

On this page : Community members showing off their national colours with broad smiles. Mouth-watering Bahamian delicacies on the refreshments menu. Flags and smiles all around to kick off the Golden Jubilee Anniversary.

Above: Proud to be Bahamian, and happy to be able to share special moments in history as a unified community - Central Eleuthera residents out to witness the logo unveiling at a ‘watch party’ hosted in the Worker’s House ballroom on January 19th, 2023.

BAHAMAS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY CELEBRATES RECORD BREAKING SALES IN 2022 AND LOOKS AHEAD TO ANOTHER BANNER YEAR IN 2023

NASSAU, The Bahamas (February 13, 2023) — Bahamas Sotheby’s International Realty, an industry leader with 78 years of expertise in luxury real estate, is pleased to announce a record-breaking year in 2022. The exceptional performance of the company can be attributed to its dedicated and knowledgeable sales team, brand support, and administrative team, according to Lana Rademaker, Chief Brokerage Officer.

mistic, with a top-tier team of sales, marketing, and administrative professionals who are motivated to excel in their field. The power of the Sotheby’s International Realty® brand and its global referral network, combined with the strength of the company’s team, anticipate continued success for the brokerage.

Sotheby’s International Realty®, a global leader in luxury real estate, continues to advance the industry with technology and marketing efforts, including a mobile-first approach to accommodate the needs of today’s clients. The brand’s sup-

port infrastructure and proprietary marketing platforms remain a unique advantage for Bahamas Sotheby’s International Realty, according to Top Producer Nick Damianos.

Bahamas Sotheby’s International Realty, with eight offices throughout The Bahamas, has been a trusted name in luxury and waterfront property sales since 1945. With a team of experienced real estate professionals, the company consistently ranks among the top producers in The Bahamas real estate industry.

dIgItal VIllage

Several sales agents from Bahamas Sotheby’s International Realty were honored for their outstanding performance, including Nick Damianos as the Company’s Top Producer and Listing Agent, Mark Hussey as the Top Producer for the Nassau Sales Team, and Tiffany Forbes as the Top Producer of the Baha Mar Residential Sales Team. Awarded Top Producer and Top Listing Agent in Abaco was Jane Patterson. Angelika Bacchus earned the title of Top Producer and Top Listing Agent in the Eleuthera market. The Circle of Excellence Award was awarded to a group of top performing sales agents, including Vanessa and Christopher Ansell of The Ansell Group, Samira Coleby, Madeline Wilkinson, Christina Cunningham, and Sarah Chemaly.

The year 2022 was marked by innovation, record-breaking sales, and unparalleled global networking, according to Rademaker. The Baha Mar Residences™ sales team saw strong residential sales with their relocation to the resort’s casino floor, attracting new energy and visibility to the luxury residences at the Rosewood Hotel. The company also expanded its team, adding five new sales agents and five administrative team members, contributing to the overall success of the company.

Rademaker emphasized that Bahamas Sotheby’s International Realty achieved milestone sales volume in 2022, including the representation of both buyer and seller in the sale of properties such as Harbour House in Lyford Cay and Cave Cay in the Exumas. These achievements were further propelled by the exceptional efforts of CEO, George Damianos, who was recognized as one of Sotheby’s International Realty’s Top 100 Agents for his dedication to clients and the global company.

Looking ahead to 2023, Bahamas Sotheby’s International Realty is opti-

She continued, “Going forward, we would like to collaborate with the farmers to find out exactly what their challenges are... let us know what the issues are when we do our general assessment, so, we could know what solutions can be had here in Eleuthera.”

Interested persons can reach out for more information by emailing kentisha.ward@fao.org. “As we continue to grow with the project, we are going to send out more information. This project is comprised of multiple trainings, capacity building seminars and workshops. We want to make sure that every bit of information about this initiative is disseminated to the entire Eleuthera community,” shared Ms. Ward.

She added, “We had a general registration process here at the launch, but also as we begin the implementation of the project, we will try to reach out to every farmer here in Eleuthera, via the list that we have obtained, and via walkaround and community assessments.”

With the timeline for the initiative set for the calendar year 2023, by December this year said Ms. Ward, “We would like by then to have a digital hub created, where farmers, fisherfolk and crafters would be able to log in, and access financial inclusion, access greater markets, and also access digital trainings.”

Above: Kentisha Ward, Project Coordinator with the FAO’s Digital Villages Initiative, presenting the concepts along with, Jeri Kelly, FAO National Correspondent, and Dr. Crispin Moreira, FAO Country Representative.

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 January, 2023.

• Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs With Intent to Supply : On Friday 6th November 2023 sometime around 7:47 am officers while conducting a routine traffic inspection arrested three adult males reference of Possession of Dangerous Drugs namely suspected marijuana on Queens Highway, Governors Harbour. The suspects were processed and charged with that offence.

• Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs : On Friday 6th January 2023 sometime around at about 9:48am while conducting routine traffic inspection in at the Governors Harbour Officers arrested and cautioned an adult male reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. He was subsequently processed and charged with that offence.

• Possession of Dangerous Drugs: On Friday 6th January 2023, sometime around 8:20am, Officers while conducting routine traffic inspection in Rock Sound arrested an adult male reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. He was subsequently processed and charged with that offence.

• Drug Arrest: On Wednesday 11th January 2023, sometime around 12:57pm, Officers while in the area of Ocean Hole Rock Sound conducting road checks arrested and caution an adult male and an adult female reference to dangerous drugs, after a quantity of suspected marijuana was found in their vehicle . Both suspects were transported to Rock Sound Police Station where they were processed and charged.

• Possession of Dangerous Drugs Arrest: On Thursday 12th January, 2023 at 2:30 pm, the School Resource officer attached to a local High School received information reference to a student who brought cookies suspected to contain marijuana and was selling them to other students. As a result, Three (3) students admitted to feeling dizzy, lightheaded, and or nauseous after eating the cookie. The parents of the affected children were immediately contacted and they were taken to receive medical attention. Officers launched an investigation into this report which resulted in the subsequent arrest and charge of the female student along with an adult male and an adult female.

• Drug Arrest Report: On Friday 13/1/23 at about 8:20pm Officers came in at Harbour Island Police Station with an adult male reporting that he was arrested and cautioned while on Bay Street Harbour Island reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence.

• Drug Arrest Report: On Friday 13/1/23 at about 8:10pm Officers came in at Harbour Island Station with an adult male and reported that he was arrested and cautioned while on Bay Street Harbour Island reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence.

• Drug Arrest Report: On Friday 13/1/23 at about 8:10pm Officers came in at Harbour Island Police Station with an adult male suspect they reported that he was arrested and cautioned reference to possession of dangerous drugs while on Bay Street Harbour Island. The suspect was processed and charged with that of-

RBPF Reports

fence.

• Drug Arrest: On Tuesday 24th January, 2023 sometime around 11:00am Officers while at Edwin Burrows Marine Pond conducting a traffic check, conducted a search of an adult male reference to dangerous drugs. During the search, he was found to be in possession of a clear zip package which contained suspected marijuana, he was arrested and caution reference to same. The suspect was later processed and charged with that offence.

• Possession of Dangerous Drugs: On Wednesday 25th January 2023 sometime around 3:40pm Officers came in at the Governors Harbour Police station with an adult male suspect and reported that he was arrested in the area of Hatchet Bay reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence.

• Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs: On Thursday 26th January 2023, sometime around 11:22am, Officers, while conducting a traffic check in front of Oleander Gardens Subdivision observed the front passenger of a Silver 2003 Pontiac Grand, throw a clear plastic bag on the ground. The same was retrieved and it was discovered that it contained suspected marijuana. The suspect was arrested and cautioned reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. The suspect was later processed and charged.

• Arrest reference to Dangerous Drugs

On Friday 27th January 2023 sometime around 12:05 pm Officers arrested an adult male for possession of suspect marijuana. He was processed and charged with that offence.

duRIng tHe MontH oF JanuaRy, oFFIceRs InVestIgated one coMplaInt oF House bReakIng

• Housebreaking & S tealing

O n Wednesday 11th January 2023 sometime around 10:57 am an adult male reported to police that sometime between 12:00 am and 10:30 am some unknown person (s) entered a house that is under renovations and stole a number of electrical supplies. Officers visited the scene and commenced an investigation into this matter.

Reports Provided by the Royal Bahamas Police Force - New Providence

**eleutHeRa: polIce InVestIgate alleged suIcIde**Police on the island of Eleuthera are investigating an alleged suicide which occurred, on Harbour Island.

According to reports around 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday 7th February, 2023 police were notified of the incident which involved a 57 year old, Caucasian male, who was found hanging from a balcony, in the Narrows, with a rope around his neck. The native of Greece, was pronounced dead, by the local doctor. Investigations continue.

eleutHeRa tRaFFIc FatalIty takes lIFe oF young educatoR

Police in Eleuthera are investigating a traffic accident which has left a 27-year-old woman dead. The incident reportedly happened shortly before 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 27th, 2023, in an area described by authorities as ‘Salt Bluff’ (midway between the townships of Savannah Sound and Tarpum Bay).

A preliminary report indicated that the young woman was traveling south along Queen’s Highway, in a charcoal gray Nissan Note vehicle, when she was said to have lost control and collided into a casuarina tree. The vehicle was extensively

damaged, resulting in the woman being trapped inside. According to the report, she had to be extricated from the car. Local medical personnel pronounced the victim dead on the scene, after their arrival.

The victim of the crash was later identified as Chara Major, a school guidance counsellor with the Ministry of Education. She was said to have served as the Guidance Counselor for the Emily G. Petty Primary, Emma E. Cooper Primary and James Cistern Primary Schools. Social media postings described Ms. Major as excited to be in Eleuthera after only starting her career here a few months ago (September 2022). She was sais to have truly loved what she did and cherished her students and colleagues most.

Police in their report, expressed that they are investigating and are once again appealing to members of the public, to adhere to the rules and regulations of the Road Traffic Act. They urged, “Motorists are also reminded to stay within the required speed limit, as failure to do so will result in you being cited, and in some instances losing your life.”

**eleutHeRa polIce conduct Road cHecks**

The road checks were held on Wednesday 1st February 2023 between the hours of 3:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. in the settlements of Palmetto Point, Governors Harbour, Ocean Hole Road, Rock Sound and Tarpum Bay. Officers inspected one hundred and eighty (185) vehicles and cited and twelve (12) drivers for various traffic infractions.

Additional road checks were held on Monday 6th February 2023, between the hours of 3:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., in -the settlement of Governor’s Harbour. Officers inspected thirty (30) vehicles and cited three (3) drivers for seven (7) traffic infractions inclusive of unlicensed and uninsured vehicles.

Police c o ntact n u mbers

• HeadQuarters (GH) 332-3500

• Governor’s Harbour 332-2111 OR 332-2117

• O/C Governor’s Harbour 332-2723

• Gov.Harb. Airport Station 332-2323

• Deep Creek Station 334-8207

• Tarpum Bay Station 334-4033

• Rock Sound Station 334-2244

• Rock Sound Sgt. Office 334-2212

• Rock Sound Airport Stn 334-2052

• L. Bogue (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

THE MINISTRY OF TOURISM, INVESTMENTS & AVIATION ON VISITOR ARRIVALS

Nassau, Bahamas (30 January 2023) The Ministry of Tourism is extremely excited to announce that visitor arrivals to The Bahamas eclipsed seven million in 2022, signaling a return to pre-pandemic tourism numbers.

In total 7,000,706 visitors came to The Bahamas in 2022.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation Chester Cooper praised The Bahamas’ performance and the work put in by industry professionals across the board.

“The fact that we have exceeded expectations and attracted more than 7 million visitors to our country in 2022, something only done once before in a single year was no accident,” he said.

“Countless stakeholders in the Bahamian tourism industry, including our international partners, worked tirelessly to achieve this. We sought to strengthen relationships to open new air routes. We sought to make travel to The Bahamas easier, more accessible, and affordable and took the message that we were open for business during our Missions and provided insight on our wonderful offerings to the world.”

DPM Cooper forecasted that 2023 promises to shatter even prepandemic numbers as interest in the Bahamas and our brand reputation have never been stronger.

“According to statistics the second half of 2022 outperformed the second half of 2019,” he said. In 2022, 1,470,244 visitors came to

our shores by air; another 5,530,462 visitors arrived by sea.

Nassau and Grand Bahama remained our most popular destinations by air, while Nassau and The Berry Islands remained our most popular destinations by sea.

Foreign air and sea arrivals for 2022 were up by 233 percent over the same period in 2021 and just 3.4 percent shy of record arrivals in 2019.

December 2022 saw total arrivals eclipse 900,000 visitors, more than any month in our history.

Cruise arrivals in 2022 increased by nearly 400 percent over 2021 and were less than 1 percent below 2019 cruise arrivals.

Air and cruise arrivals monthly from July to December 2022 surpassed the corresponding month in 2019.

Occupancy rates for 2022 eclipsed occupancy rates for every corresponding month in 2021.

The average daily room rate in 2022 outperformed that category for every corresponding month in 2021. The Bahamas carved out new ground with more than 55 percent of first-time arrivals to The Bahamas, with increases in the United States, Canada, Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

DPM Cooper confirmed that the last six months are the strongest The Bahamas has ever seen.

He firmly concluded by saying; What the Ministry of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation are forecasting

so far and what forward bookings indicate, is that we are on track to break records in 2023. We don’t see this slowing down anytime soon.”

Mrs. Latia Duncombe, Director General of Tourism added that everyone should understand that tourism is critical to our economy and all Bahamians, even those who do not directly work in the tourism industry, should al-

ways seek to lift the industry up.

“We are all in the tourism business in The Bahamas. And it’s a great business to be in. We want to keep our brand fresh and evergreen. And that’s everyone’s job, especially mine. I have a great, hardworking team at our ministry and we have some incredible things in store this year.”

Paula Saunders from the community of Governor’s Harbour, shared that God laid on her heart a vision to help to feed the primary school children within her home township. The breakfast ministry, she said, first started with the primary school kids, and as word got around, high school children also took part. So, she and a group of dedicated ladies from her home church, St. Patrick’s Anglican, decided that they would get together once each month, on the first Monday morning in every month - and would feed whoever came in - parents and all. The group of ladies, including: Paula Saunders, Linda Haschker, Sandra Young, Deshon Johnson, Stephanie Bethel, and Ruth Ann Griffin, lay out a tasty and nutritious spread each first Monday within the St. Patrick’s Parish Hall, volunteering their time and resources. In January, more than one hundred people were fed.

Breakfast Ministry at St. Patrick’s Parish Hall

dIsney Meet & gReet

Page. 17

up and running and to involve as many Eleutherans as possible in our work.”

When asked about what local Eleutherans can expect when it comes to interacting with the property after opening, Mr. Gaskins offered, “There are a couple of things. So, one, Eleutherans should expect a significant recruitment drive ahead of our opening, here in Eleuthera. We have committed to almost 200 hundred jobs. Our record on that is quite good actually. We committed to 120 jobs during construction. We almost tripled that - 80% of which are Bahamian. And still hiring. There are still opportunities there.

He added, “Eleutherans should also expect opportunities to become a part of our sourcing and procurement operations. In the very near future we will be announcing a trip here by our sourcing and procurement teams to take a look at the landscape and see how we can contract people for our operations - for everything from landscaping perhaps, to port adventures (taking people out on the water, taking them on tours around the island). So, there are opportunities in employment, sourcing and procurement - even in the port excursions area.”

Touching on the important issue of site access, Mr. Gaskins, explained, “If you go back to our Heads of Agreement (HOA), section 5.1, we guaranteed continued access to the site for Bahamians and residents once we open.

That was something that the community here in Central and South Eleuthera requested specifically, and that we have had in the HOA. So, lots of discussions around what that will look like exactly, but I think Eleutherans should be assured that access will remain to that beach once we open for operations.”

He continued, “Just as a reminder, we are donating 180 acres of the property back to the government of The Bahamas, including that southernmost point where the lighthouse is located. So, that will actually remain as property of the Bahamian government. In our Heads of Agreement, we have guaranteed access through the development to the beach - and for Bahamians and residents, the promise was for access to that property, and we signed it in the HOA. So, I really want to nail down that commitment is something that we take very seriously... When Eleutherans drive down, that is a site they will continue to be able to access, once we are in operation.”

Gaskins also reminded, that during the construction phase, with safety an issue for traversing through the development, that DCL has provided a relocated road for immediate use.

“We have also committed to creating a public access beach with facilities, on that eastern beach as well. So, if you don’t want to come directly on property, you will have a better laid out road with public facilities and bathrooms on that eastern beach, within the 180 acres given back to the government and the people of The

thanked the organization’s leadership for the opportunity to serve and for the heartfelt thanks and send off given. The intimate staff event featured moving tributes, gifts, and accolades from the Board of Directors, Senior Leadership, Management & Staff. As dear friends of the organization, we continue to wish Audrey, Maisie, and Kenwood the very best in this new chapter of their lives and careers, and look forward to collaborating in new and beneficial ways in the future.

The Ministry of Tourism’s Annual Food and Craft Fest

Our recent partnership with The Ministry of Tourism to host the Annual Food and Craft Festival at CTI on Saturday, Jan. 28th was a smashing success! A delightful array of talented Bahamian artisans, souvenir producers, and food vendors displayed their best wares and kept the crowd engaged and happy from 10 am straight through to 10 pm. Electric evening performances by Fire Dancers, local songbird Nishie L.S. and the melodious Vision Band kept the festivities energized and entertaining. People from all across the island attended and brought their families to delight in a day of cultural celebration and fun. Set against the lush and beautiful backdrop of the CTI grounds and stunning pool deck, guests enjoyed the spacious layout and ample parking while vendors enjoyed a steady flow of shoppers throughout the day. The event ended with a live junkanoo rush out and was deemed a great success by the organizers. We look forward to partnering and hosting many more community events, festivals and activities on the CTI campus to support local businesses and entrepreneurs, stimulate our local economy and further develop Eleuthera’s arts and culture sector.

Class Recruitment

It’s that time of year again! CTI has a line-up of Professional Certificate courses slated to begin this February at the North Eleuthera, Harbour Island Trade School (CTIHITS.) Courses are ten weeks and NAECOB-approved. They include Intro to Culinary, Bartending and Mixology, and Carpentry. Student scholarships are also available, but seats are limited so interested persons are urged to register immediately by emailing: registrar@oneeleuthera. org or by calling or messaging 242-815-3800. The

Bahamas.

“I want Eleutherans to understand that we are partners with them. Obviously, change brings both risk and reward. They should always feel free to reach out to me or anybody else on the Disney team for any potential opportunities, and also if there are things that they are seeing that they want to talk to us about. We are here to problem solve and to improve the communities that we come to. I want people to know that we are totally dedicated to that. For jobs and subcontracting opportunities, people can reach out to (lhpjobs@americanbridge.net). For any enquiries about the property, reach out to me directly by email at (dcl.lighthousepoint@disney.com).”

Above: DCL Regional Public Affairs Director, based in New Providence, Joey Gaskins, speaking with local subcontractors at a ‘Meet and Greet’ hosted on February, 9th, 2023.

Pictured: A wide cross-section of players took part in the ‘Eye of the Tiger’ Doubles Tennis Tournament, hosted in Palmetto Point. Dean, followed by runners up, Michelle and Caitlyn Walker.

The men’s consolation prize went to the team of Kevin and Jayden Carey, while the women’s consolation prize was taken by Sarah Brie and Elisa Herbst.

Following the event, daughter of one of the participants, and professional tennis player, Colleen ‘CoCo’ Vandeweghe, sent a video

CTI-HITS school has a ninetyfive percent graduation rate and a ninety-five percent alumni employment rate. Prospective students are encouraged to start their own success journey by registering and taking advantage of this opportunity to get certified and bolster your resume.

Campus Tours Increase & Farmstand Fridays Continue

The farm is also bustling with activity and sprouting with new life this new year. We are seeing an uptick in tours and requests to volunteer at CTI and it’s been exciting welcoming new and diverse groups to experience our campus. Students from Williams College, led by Sarah Gardner visited in January. The group of ten helped farmers Tim and Selima Hauber transplant hundreds of tomato seedlings into a vertical Hydroponic Bato Bucket System in the Oasis Grow House. The first tomatoes are already appearing on the vines. Visiting from Suny Morrisville University in New York, a group of sixteen students and their professor Dr. Elisa Livengood, made a farm tour their priority during their visit to the island. The Oasis Grow House was high on the group’s Eleuthera “must see” list, and they weren’t disappointed! Local student tours are also welcomed. We recently

message to ETA president Artie Johnson, saying, “I would like to congratulate Kevin and Kevin for winning the first annual Eye of the Tiger event. I would like to also congratulate Artie for putting on a fantastic event with his team. I’m just a little jealous. I know I won the 2018 Women’s US Open Doubles, but where was my invite? I saw the trophies - I want one. Invite me next year. Congrats guys!”

hosted eighth-grade students from Deep Creek Middle School to explore our sustainable farming techniques. With the Grow House entering full production there is lots to learn and observe from week to week. Fresh produce from the Oasis Grow House can also be purchased at our weekly Friday Farmstand at CTI from 10am to 3pm. We continue to provide our local community with fresh, affordable greens that taste just as amazing and nutritious as they look.

Pictured above: Students from Williams College, led by Sarah Gardner with farmers Tim and Selima Hauber in the Oasis Grow House. Below left: Deliciously creative Charcuterie displays prepared by Chef Jasmine of Farmer’s Table restaurant as a pre-dinner treat for wedding guests. Below right: MOT event vendor: She’s a pretty Eleuthera Pineapple-Gal with customized gift items to match!

Above: Men’s doubles champions, Kevin Cooper (center left) and Kevin Major (center right) receiving their trophies from coach Artie Johnson (right) and Chris Evans (right).

Back on the Road: Alvin Adderley Sport Meet 2023

Young athletes from across The Eleutheras came together on Friday, February 3rd, 2023 for the return of the Annual Alvin Adderley road race event, which like many other public events were not held during the restrictions of the pandemic from 2020 to 2022.

The road race, first held in 2005, and each year afterward in remembrance of former Eleuthera educator, Mr. Alvin Adderley, who died as a result of cancer, is organized by close colleague and friend of the late Mr. Adderley - Mr. Tony Crean. Daughter of Mr. Adderley, Carla Adderley was in attendance on Friday morning, representing her mother Mrs. Lula Adderley, and her siblings, who in years past always took the time to attend in support of the memorial race.

Staged at the Bayfront Park in Governor’s Harbour, the race began shortly after 11am, as schools from further afield arrived on site.

Prior to race time, as organizers geared up for the start, Carla Adderley commented on how she felt about this year’s race, and the family’s appreciation of the memorial event, saying, “It’s a humbling experience, because after the three-year hiatus, we thought we may never see this event again. So, we are grateful for that. I have seen so many familiar faces, who have been there in the past - coaches, teachers, and volunteers. It’s heartwarming, and it’s a little bit of an emotional day, because this is something that Terrell (Carla’s brother) held dear to his heart - I guess that was his way of keeping Daddy close - and he (Terrell) passed away in 2020. So, now that he is no longer here as well, it’s a bit emotional, but we are thankful, and it’s a pleasure to be here.”

Three of Eleuthera’s High Schools and six Primary Schools participated in the relay event. In the Primary School division, mixed boys and girls teams competed in half mile legs passing on the baton to teammates at the designated spot within Bayfront Park.

Above: Representing the family of Mr. Alvin Adderley, his daughter, Carla Adderley, was present and appreciative, she said, that after a long pause, the event had returned.

Above: CEHS junior and senior girls.

Above: Road race moments. Also pictured speaking with students, Mr. Tony Crean.

Local Buzz

The High Schools competed in five divisions; under 20 boys, under 20 girls, under 17 boys, under 17 girls, and under 15 boys - with ten-member relay teams, but a longer leg distance of one mile, which took each competitor from BayFront Park, south to the forked junction at Governor’s Harbour’s southern approach, then back, running north along the Queen’s Highway back into BayFront Park.

There were no dominant performances by any one of the high schools participating. North Eleuthera High took the win in the under 20 boys division. Preston H. Albury commanded the under 17 boys challenge and also claimed the win in the under 15 boys as Central Eleuthera was disqualified. Central Eleuthera showed up in the girls divisions, taking top spot in the under 20 girls matchup, and running uncontested in the under 17 division - took the win there as well.

In the primary contest, between the six participating schools, which began the day’s excitement - Tarpum Bay Primary would finish ahead of all their peers, followed by Deep Creek Primary in second place, and Rock Sound came in at third.

Official Results: :

Primary School Division

• 1st Position - Tarpum Bay Primary

• 2nd Position - Deep Creek Primary

• 3rd Position - Rock Sound Primary

• 4th Position - Emily G. Petty Primary

• 5th Position - Green Castle Primary

• 6th Position - Emma E. Cooper Primary

High School Division

• Under 20 Boys

1st Position - North Eleuthera High

2nd Position - Central Eleuthera High

3rd Position - Preston H. Albury High

• Under 20 Girls

1st Position - Central Eleuthera High

2nd Position - Preston H. Albury High

• Under 17 Boys

1st Position - Preston H. Albury High

2nd Position - Central Eleuthera High

• Under 17 Girls

1st Position - Central Eleuthera High (uncontested run)

• Under 15 Boys

1st Position - Preston H. Albury High

2nd Position - (Disqualified - Central Eleuthera High)

On left: Standing groups of students at the start of the day’s competition, with Emma E. Cooper juniors closest.

Above: NEHS senior boys.

Above: Tarpum Bay and Rock Sound Primary teams, with coach, Melinda Pelecanos.

Back on the Field: Jr. League Baseball 2023 Opens

since the pandemic’s interruption in 2020.

Officer Pedro Grant emceed the brief ceremony, and Pastor Jason Thompson opened in prayer, as teams of senior and t-ball division players lined up on the field with their coaches and mentors accompanying them. Teams from Rock Sound, Tarpum Bay, Palmetto Point, Governor’s Harbour, and Deep Creek & Green Castle were present to take part, with an additional team from James Cistern, Hatchet Bay & Gregory Town (combined) not in attendance, but expected to join the other teams in upcoming matchups.

The Twin City Arena ball park in Palmetto Point was abuzz with a festive family atmosphere on Saturday, February 11th, 2023 as regular season play for the 2023 Eleuthera Junior Baseball League got underway.

Teams from throughout Central and South Eleuthera began to gather at the park at 9am in preparation for the first day of competition, with a break at 1pm for an official opening ceremony to mark the beginning of the first full season of junior baseball play,

Eleuthera Baseball Association (EBA) president, Mr. Elline Sineus, welcomed the healthy crowd of parents, friends, fans and community members, who filled the surrounding bleachers to the first day of the playing season, and encouraged all to continue to support the teams as they played, every Saturday during the four-month season, which winds up in early June, in preparation for the nationals scheduled to begin in New Providence on June 20th, 2023.

Special guests and League executives were invited to give remarks, including MP, Minister Clay Sweeting, and Past EBA president, Mr. Larry Forbes.

Minister Sweeting, harking back to his

past days of playing baseball in Eleuthera, with EBA past president Michael Dorsette as coach at the time, said, “What is so important about functions like this and bringing young people together, is that it trains them for much more than just baseball. It teaches them discipline. It teaches them how to work well with others, and it teaches them the importance of team work.” Mr. Sweeting also announced a $1,000 donation from the constituency fund to the Eleuthera Junior Baseball Association, to assist especially with the expenses of transporting the teams around as they played during the next several months within the different townships.

Above: Senior and T-Ball teams excited to begin the season of junior league baseball play on the island. .

(L-R): Mrs. Sands, Dep. Chairman of BAIC, Mr. Elline Sineus, Eleuthera Baseball Association president, and Minister Clay Sweeting.

Mr. Forbes, who served 13 years as EBA president, and worked tirelessly with junior baseball teams in Eleuthera, during those years, commented that the Junior Baseball Association was on a good roll before the three-year hiatus, and that it was good to be back. He encouraged parents to continue to support the teams, and to continue to bring the children out. “This is a really good beginning, and I’m looking forward to this continuing every Saturday. Hopefully we get baseball parks prepared in every settlement, so we can move this around and have clean and wholesome activities for our boys and girls throughtout Eleuthera.”

EBA Secretary, Mrs. Suzanne Bethel, then introduced the current board members of the Eleuthera Baseball Association, for the information of the crowd gathered, which included: Mr. Elline Sineus, president; Angelo Bethel, vice president; Suzanne Bethel, secretary; Thelia

Sineus, assistant secretary; Charmaine Culmer, treasurer; Darrel Smith, assistant treasurer; Larry Forbes, public relations; Ingrid White, fundraiser; Marco Bethel, executive; and Lincoln Young,

executive.

Umpires who would be giving of their time and expertise during the 2023 season were also introduced. They were, Cyril Dean (chief umpire), Ricardo

Dean, Mario Mortimore, Reginald Bodie, and Alpheus Cooper.

During the ceremony, a beautiful set of trophies were on display in the center of the diamond, along with medals. Teams from Governor’s Harbour and Palmetto Point, who had taken part in a summer series of play during 2022 were presented with individual medals for participation. The trophies, explained Mr. Forbes, were part of the prizes up for grabs for those teams who would play to win in the Eleuthera Junior Baseball League 2023 season.

Past EBA president, Mr. Michael Dorsette, then threw the ceremonial ‘first pitch’ to formally let ‘the games begin’ - which closed out the opening ceremony of the 2023 Eleuthera Junior Baseball season. The day’s matchups then continued with a face-off between senior teams from Rock Sound and Tarpum Bay.

Above EBA stakeholders and executives with Minister Sweeting. (L-R): Michael Dorsett, Jason Thompson, Melinda Wallace, Wilson Cooper, Elline Sineus, Minister Clay Sweeting, Pedro Grant, Larry Forbes, Suzanne Bethel, and Darrell Smith.

Pictured : Teams from Governor’s Harbour and Palmetto, receive their participation medals for games played through summer of 2022.

Ministry of Tourism’s Art & Craft Festival: Successfully Partners With One Eleuthera/CTI

Last seen in December of 2019, the reboot of the Ministry of Tourism’s (MOT) Annual Food and Craft Festival in Eleuthera, hosted in partnership with One Eleuthera’s Center for Training and Innovation (CTI) on the grounds of The Retreat Hotel and Farmer’s Table Restaurant in Rock Sound on Saturday, January 28th, 2023, from 10am until 10pm in the evening, was one that came together in just the right way.

The event brought together local Eleutheran artisans selling high quality, authentic craft goods, including shell craft, jewelry of local materials, knitted and crocheted creations, professional strawwork designs, novelties and more, with food vendors offering an array of local delicacies - like freshly roasted local corn and tastes of resident bush teas to more traditional fare. Artisans and food vendors enjoyed a steady flow of customers throughout the day and evening. Crowds of local residents as well as visiting tourists, filtered through the thoughtfully laid out venue, with booths that wound around the backdrop of CTI’s pool deck, restaurant courtyard and spacious hotel grounds, with ample parking. People from all over Eleuthera came out and enjoyed the familyfriendly cultural celebration.

A professional stage hosted the energetic talent of local entertainers later into the evening, including the local New Vision Band and performer Nishie L. S. As daylight melded into the Saturday’s early evening, fire dancers - Blaze and Sparkle of the ‘Fire Goddess’ troupe wowed the swelling crowd. Local seamstress and designer, Verda Gardiner, showcased colourful fashions, custom-made for the evening, with models

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Above: Seated - Ministry of Tourism officials (L-R) - Samantha Fox, Karen Rolle, Doria Forbes, and Bernadette Richards, with the General Manager for Eleuthera, Harbour Island and Abaco, Mr. Prescott Young (back right standing).

Above: Amanda Suzanne Johnson, from James’ Cistern, owner of the ‘Novelty Plug”, does her own unique twist on tumbler designs, with pineapple a favourite.

Above: Yvonne Jacques Miller, a talented crochet and knitting artisan, turned a hobby into something more after returning home three years ago. Her stuffed animals are a hot item this season. Two above: Susan Culmer delights palates with a tasty variety of locally blended ‘bush’ teas.

Above: Center is Tourism Office Manager, Glenda Ingraham with creative fashion designer, Verda Gardiner, and MOT General Manager Prescott Young - surrounded by a bevy of beauties featuring creations by Verda.

On Page: More sights and scenes in the relaxed atmosphere.

O n P ages : M ore sights , scenes and beautiful s M iles at the food and craft festival .

traversing the perimeter of CTI’s pool during the show. An energetic junkanoo rushout capped the event, which organizers described as highly successful.

Prescott Young, General Manager with the Ministry of Tourism for Eleuthera, commented on the festival as it was ongoing, saying, “I feel great about the event. I’m not just seeing locals, I’m also seeing visitors. We really want people who come here to experience what is unique and different about us. I think this venue is ideal. It has the space we were looking for. It has the atmosphere where we can bring people together, and it also has the perfect backdrop... We feel

that this is the ideal area that we can choose to accomodate the amount of people that we want, and to also have all the items on our list that we want to use, to make sure that our delivery and impact is of a high standard.”

Pairing up with One Eleuthera/ CTI was just right said Mr. Young, “The reason for partnering with CTI is because we know that they are all about sustainability and if the Islands of The Bahamas are to grow, and to be sustainable over the years - we need to find stakeholders who share the same vision that we have, and who can assist us. Alone, the Ministry of Tourism only has a certain reach - but through partnerships and joint ventures with other people, our reach will definitely be greater. So, we thought that CTI would be the perfect fit for us.”

The team from MOT’s Governor’s Harbour office, who Mr. Young said made it all happen, led by Office Manager, Mrs. Glenda Ingraham - also included: Samantha Fox, Bernadette Richards, Karen Rolle, and Doria Forbes.

Upcoming Events

• MARCH 2nd - Annual Second Homeowners/Winter Residents Reception - This is an appreciation event for all visitors who have chosen Eleuthera as their home away from home. (Contact: Ms. Glenda Johnson-Ingraham gjingraham@bahamas.com (242) 302-2000 ext. 4456)

• MARCH 4th - Junior Junkanoo Parade - Begins at 3 p.m. in Tarpum Bay. A celebration of passing on the traditional Bahamian culture of Junkanoo to the younger generation - through costume, music and parade. (Contact: Ms. Clara Young - Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture (242) 470-4081)

• MARCH 18th - Annual Hope Ball - This red-carpet event will feature exciting live entertainment, all proceeds go toward benefiting the Cancer Society Eleuthera Branch. (Contact: Ms. Susan Culmer (242) 359-7969)

• MARCH 23rd - 27th - Wesley Methodist Church Celebrates 175th Anniversary - The Wesley Methodist Church located in Governor’s Harbour will be celebrating its 175th anniversary. On the 23rd of March, they will be honoring certain members in the church and on the 27th is a celebration. (Contact: Ms. Diane Farrington (242) 4229802 sdfarrington56@gmail. com Governors Harbour)

• JULY 7th thru JULY 15th - The 2023 Bahamas Games. Celebrating the Golden Jubilee of National Independence (Contact: The Bahamas Games Secretariat, 242-322-1029/69, secretariatbahamasgames@gmail.com)