The Eleutheran Newspaper February/March 2023 Issue

BACK COVER: Damianos Sotheby’s Int’l

P 3: Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty

P 5: HG Christie

New Executive Board for NACB’s Eleuthera Branch

On Friday evening March 10th, 2023, The Nurses’ Association of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas (NACB) - Eleuthera Branch installed its new executive board members, at a ceremony hosted at the Eleuthera Cancer Society’s Wellness Center in Palmetto Point. The ceremony, which was also accessible via online meeting, was held under the theme, “Nurse leaders: Restructuring and Restabilizing the Nursing Profession”.

New executive board members included, Branch Chairperson, Cornell Johnson; Assistant Chairperson, Deandra Frazier; Treasurer, Deshan Mortimer; Secretary, Behanker Rolle; Assistant Secretary, Kenria Cargill; and Chairperson for Education and Research, Bianca Edwards. The new board is set to serve in their new positions for the next two years, until the end of 2024.

Special guest speaker, Mr. Martin Gaitor, encouraged the new Nurses’ Association leaders, expounding on the importance of caregiving, using the example of Dr. Luke in the new testament, and emphasized that nurses could not be paid for the priceless work that they

Cont’d on Page 37

Above (L-R): Cornell Johnson, Chairperson; Deandra Frazier, Asst. Chairperson; Allea Brown, 2nd VP NACBNP; Kenria Cargill, Asst. Sec.; Behanker Rolle, Secretary; and E. Regina Ingraham, Past Chairperson NACB-EB.

Pause in no way dampens energy of youth as Eleuthera Jr. Junkanoo returns with big splash!

Junior Junkanoo splashed back on to the scene in Tarpum Bay, Eleuthera during the first weekend in March, on Saturday the 4th, with primary, junior high, and senior high schools putting in the time and effort to reintroduce the time-honoured tradition to students throughout Eleuthera.

Three high schools, including North Eleuthera, Central Eleuthera, and Samuel Guy Pinder All Age, competed for bragging rights in the high school division of the parade competition. Two junior high schools - Deep Creek

Middle School, and the Harbour Island Green School, duked it out for the titles in the junior division. These were preceded by six schools competing in the primary division, including, Emma E. Cooper primary, Tarpum Bay primary, Green Castle primary, Deep Creek primary, and Wemyss Bight primary school.

The parade showcased the work and effort of many weeks, with colourful lead banners, foot-stomping brass and drum lines, costumes of

“Ungrateful” - Movie producer engages local audiences with one hour film

On the weekend of Friday, February 24th and Saturday, February 25th, the Bahamian film, ‘Ungrateful’, produced by filmmaker Dario Erics Poitier, was shown to audiences in Rock Sound at Fountain of Life Ministries and at St. Patrick’s Parish Hall in Governor’s Harbour.

This event was not the first for Dario Erics Productions in Eleutherait followed on a December 30th, 2022 feature showing of five short films - in Governor’s Harbour - which spotlight-

ed local talent, Malikah Pinder, among other Bahamian actors.

‘Ungrateful’, a one hour film, which highlights the story of an ‘ungrateful’ son, who turns his back on his mother and siblings who made significant sacrifices for his personal success, featured another local acting talent as a supporting actress, Lakiesha Ferguson - an educator who hails from the community of Rock Sound, South Eleuthera.

Both movie showing events

in Eleuthera were fund-raisers in support of Dario’s aspiration to bring more international quality movies, highlighting Bahamian issues and culture, featuring Bahamian talents to Bahamian and wider global audiences.

Dario Erics, began in stage plays, which featured as early as 2013 at the University of the Bahamas Performing Arts Centre and The National Centre for The Performing Arts. The suc-

cess of numerous quality stage plays resulted in the conversion of one called ‘Boy Das Ya Mar’, which debuted in 2017 at The National Centre for The Performing Arts into the 2018 movie, ‘Ungrateful’ - which went on to be seen by Bahamian audiences in theatres in Nassau, and on several Family Islands, before its showing in Eleuthera in February.

About the film, Dario shared with a smile, “I wanted to chal- P37

Above: Sitting in the front row with Mr. Dario Erics Poitier is supporting actress in the film, Lakiesha Ferguson. Standing in the back row in blue t-shirts are members of Total Impact Productions, along with Pastor Juan Symonette and Mrs. Marilyn Symonette and Pastor Jerome Hill (gray jacket).

Eleuthera: Minister Sears comments on plans for government led projects still in the pipeline

While in Eleuthera in February, Minister of Works, the Hon. Alfred Sears highlighted several government led infrastructure projects at different stages of planning, set for the island.

Commenting first on the ongoing work being done to bring resolution to Eleuthera’s water supply challenges, he said, that in addition to the extension of the water mains on Russell Island, which were commissioned on February 10th, the government had already committed to roughly about 6.5 million dollars to upgrade the storage tanks in Spanish Wells, in Harbour Island, in Lower Bogue, as well as at the Naval Base in Central Eleuthera - so, that the water supply system in The Eleutheras could have greater resilience in terms of the

available supply of potable water - in the event there was an interruption, there would be a standby supply in storage.

Updating on near term actions in aviation in North Eleuthera, he shared, “We are also nearing the completion of plans for the North Eleuthera airport. However, before the major redevelopment, we are preparing to do some improvement of the runway, the need for which had come to our attention through the Department of Aviation. So, that will be given urgent attention.”

He then talked about long term plans to redevelop the road network in Eleuthera, saying, “Additionally, we are in the process of negotiating an arrangement, a PPP (Public Private Partnership) for the paving

of the roads in Eleuthera, and that should commence within the course of this year. We know that this is a long-standing concern, within Eleuthera.

“It will be an asphalt road, this redevelopment project, because the asphalt gives a longer life, a minimum of twenty years. It also is environmentally better in terms of the reduction of dust, better in terms of ride ability, and efficient use of the road. It will be an asphalt road redevelopment project.”

Providing further detail on how the road redevelopment project would proceed on the island, Minister Clay Sweeting, who stood next to Minister Sears clarified, “Central and South Eleuthera highways would make up

Minister Alfred Sears.

the first phase, the settlements would be the second phase. North roads are better, and would be the third phase... The quantity surveying has been done, and we have to now finalize the MOU (memorandum of understanding), and the construction contract. All the analysis has been done.”

When asked about the timeline for the phased road redevelopment project, Minister Sears, said, “We have a very aggressive program, with eighteen months to two years to complete these projects, and this is why, in the context of the PPP, the incentive to complete either by completion deadline or before completion deadline is greater.”

Updating on the Glass Window Bridge project, Sears supplied, “We also have a number of docks and of course the Glass Window Bridge. We are nearing the completion of the design work. We had a town meeting in Hatchet Bay. We secured feedback from the community, and the feedback is being incorporated by the

designers. We are speaking with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), as well as the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and also looking at certain expressions of interest in terms of a PPP arrangement for the financing of that project.”

He continued, “So, there are a number of infrastructural projects which we are undertaking, and they are in the pipeline, either at the design stage or at the procurement stage. And the work is currently being done in terms of the upgrade of the water infrastructure.”

Minister Sears said that he was advised of the arrival of two pumping stations into New Providence on February 10th, and they, upon being cleared was to have been brought to North Eleuthera and Central Eleuthera for installation. These additions, he said would increase the volume of water generated for the distribution and transmission to the customers of the Water and Sewerage Corporation.

Ministry of Transport & Housing re-Launches National Road Safety Programme

The Ministry of Transport & Housing, in March, re-launched a comprehensive national road safety programme under the theme, ‘Slow Down, Stay Alive.’ The objective of the programme is to reduce the number of traffic accidents and fatalities on the roads in the country.

In his capacity as the Acting Minister of Transport & Housing, State Minister for Legal Affairs, Hon. Jomo Campbell, made the announcement during his contribution to the mid-year Budget communication, on March 1st, 2023 in the House of Assembly (HOA). He said that the Royal Bahamas Police Force recorded over 6,000 traffic accidents in 2022 and approximately 59 fatalities, most of which claimed the lives of young Bahamian males.

Road Traffic officials in Eleuthera took part in the kick-off of the re-launched ‘Slow Down, Stay Alive’ safety programme, with staff in Central Eleuthera placed at key

Community Outreach: Rotary Club of Eleuthera - Peace Building

The Rotary Club of Eleuthera (RCE), during the month of February placed a spotlight on Peace Building and Conflict Prevention with a ‘Road to Peace’ campaign. On Monday, February 27th, 2023, the RCE partnered with the Police Force to promote peace on the island with thematic signage erected along the roadway near Police Headquarters in Governor’s Harbour, Central Eleuthera. Pictured (L-R): Former Police OIC for Eleuthera and past Rotary president, Elburt Ferguson; Police OIC for Eleuthera, Chief Superintendent Shanta Knowles; Rotary Club of Eleuthera president Maxwell Leary; and Police Superintendent Princess Hepburn-Scavella.

junctions in Governor’s Harbour on Monday morning, March 6th, 2023 - handing out flyers with safety tips for both motorists and pedestrians, as well as wristbands with the message, “Road safety starts with me.”

Some of the key messages to motorists, included, avoiding distractions - like cell phones, loud music, and conversations while driving; using seatbelts while driving and helmets while riding motorcycles; not suddenly slowing down or stopping while driving on the highway; overtaking only when safe to do so; not driving under the influence of alcohol or when sleep deprived; driving within the speed limit; and looking out for pedestrians. Pedestrians were also cautioned against distractions like cell phones and loud music while walking; to walk on sidewalks, or the shoulder of the road facing

(The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies at the University of London and Massey College in the University of Toronto. The views expressed are entirely his own)

If developing countries, especially the small and vulnerable states, expected meaningful attention by the G20 to the myriad economic and financial challenges that confront them, their hopes were dashed by failed meetings of Finance and Foreign Ministers in February and March.

The members of the G-20 are: Ar-

A third way for global peace

gentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the U.K. and the U.S., as well as the European Union. Small states have no voice at the meetings, unless one of them is invited for a brief presentation.

Both of the G20 meetings were dominated by profound differences over the Russian war on Ukraine. This caused global economic issues to be pushed to one side.

The failure of the Finance Ministers meeting, on 24 and 25 February, foreshadowed the collapse of the Foreign Ministers meeting on March 1 and 2. Reuters reported that, when a Communique was being negotiated for the Finance Ministers’ meeting, Russia insisted that the document must not mention the word “war”, insisting that the fighting in Ukraine is a “special military operation.”

In any event, no Communique was issued by either of the two meetings. Instead, the Chairpersons - the Finance and Foreign Ministers of India - were forced to release short statements that did not amount to much more than saying that the major powers dug deeper into their entrenched positions on Ukraine, discarding everything else. The Indian Foreign Minister, Subrah-

manyam Jaishankar, said there were “divergences” on the issue of the war in Ukraine “which we could not reconcile as various parties held differing views.”

China and Russia reportedly objected to two paragraphs taken from the previous G-20 declaration in Bali last year. The paragraphs stated that the war in Ukraine was causing immense human suffering while exacerbating fragilities in the global economy, the need to uphold international law, and that “the use or threat of use of nuclear weapons is inadmissible.” This was eminently acceptable language, particularly as all parties, including China and Russia, had accepted it a year ago.

A plea by India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, in a video presentation at the opening of the Foreign Ministers meeting, fell on deaf ears. But his message was right. Importantly, he lamented that the two main goals of the post-World War II international orderpreventing conflict and fostering cooperation - were elusive. “The experience of the last two years - financial crisis, pandemic, terrorism and wars - clearly shows that global governance has failed in both its mandates,” he said.

India’s hope for the year of its Presidency of the G20 meshes well with the overall interests of developing countries. It emphasizes the demands of developing states for inclusive growth, climate finance, more representative multilateral institutions, and progress on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which were all reversed by the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

India’s attention to the heavy burden of debt on developing countries, and, indeed, of industrialized countries as well, is also urgent. Every country now finds it difficult to service outstanding debt, given the demands of recovering and rebuilding damaged economies.

Even before the harmful impacts of Covid-19 and the global disruption, caused by the Russian war on Ukraine, the debt to GDP ratio was already unsustainable. After these two devastating events, debt to GDP ratio in many countries soared to over 100 per cent. Now commercial borrowing has become almost impossible, given the continuing increase in interest rates.

Restructuring sovereign debt is both necessary and urgent. However, China has made it clear it will not participate in restructuring. China follows its own path, regarding money that it lends to friendly nations. And some Western countries have declared that they will not accept reducing debt owed to them, for their debtor countries to pay back China. So, while differences between major powers persisted, the interests

of the developing countries at the G20 were ignored.

Climate Change should also have featured meaningfully on the G20 agenda. It did not. No discussion took place, although countries that are victims of climate change expected movement on this issue before the next Climate meeting, COP28, in December.

The fact that developing countries - despite the presence of India and South Africa - could make no impact on the major powers at the G20, is deeply troubling.

This stark reality should spur all developing countries to do more, not less. The economies of the global economy are seriously undermined by the Russian war on Ukraine and its consequences, including the retaliatory economic and other actions taken by the European Union and the member countries of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Developing countries lack the resilience and financial resources of the rich countries to ride out this turbulent economic storm; they cannot afford to sit by in silence.

As positions become more entrenched and more strident between the powerful protagonists of the war on Ukraine, world peace is endangered with frightening prospects for all nations, including those involved in the conflict.

In this connection, the failure of the G20 meetings raises a screeching alarm that developing countries should not ignore. If no movement was possible, even with India chairing these meetings, the clarion call for urgent collective action by developing countries should be heard by all. If ever there was a time for a revival of a genuine and practical non-aligned movement in the world, that time is now.

China, also, has an influential role to play in all this as an honest broker, taking no sides, aiding no protagonist, and promoting the established rules of the U.N. Charter and international law.

Efforts are urgent to return the world to an agenda, focused on tackling common problems such as disease and climate change; promoting human development including inequality and human rights; and engaging in dialogue to improve and enhance global rules that respect and uphold sovereignty and territorial integrity.

All developing countries should now work together, in all international fora, to present a third way to resolving global challenges, including conflicts.

Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com

By Sir Ronald Sanders

By Mike Lightbourn

Advice

Mangroves Protect Property

Did you know mangrove wetlands protect coastal homes and communities?

Once dismissed as “swamp shrubs,” their tangle of prop roots act as a living seawall against strong wind and storm surge. In fact, scientists say mangrove protection during extreme weather is unmatched by any man-made barrier to-date.

Besides that, mangrove peat absorbs water during heavy rains and storm surge, reducing the chances of coastal flooding and property damage. Mangrove “forests” remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, storing it within the plants. They improve water quality.

They are critical to our marine ecosystem, acting as aquatic nurseries by providing a habitat for coral reef fish, including threatened and endangered species. They protect grouper, conch, crab and crawfish, to name a few.

Can you imagine a Bahamas without these delicacies?

We are told an astonishing 70% percent of marine life globally depends on mangrove habitats. Yet de-

spite all this, mangrove forests are being exploited and destroyed here in the Bahamas and around the world.

Revenue Earner

It is estimated that wetlands produce over $90 million in revenue annually.

Think about it. Mangrove forests support our tourism, diving, and commercial and recreational fishing industries. As an example, flats (bonefish) fishing is a multi-million-dollar business in the Bahamas.

Anglers spend more than the average stopover visitor. They hire guides and buy lodging, meals, equipment, supplies, transportation, entertainment and so on. Yet habitat loss and degradation from mangrove destruction is a growing concern to this important industry.

What Can We Do?

Residents can help protect their homes and communities from mangrove destruction in several ways, including:

Taking part in mangrove clean-ups:

If you live in an area that hosts mangroves or even further afield, there may be an opportunity to take part

in a community clean-up or to spearhead one yourself.

Mangroves smothered in plastic will become stressed and even die. So, it’s important to remove trash from these amazing systems. Plastic is overwhelming the oceans and a lot of it ends up in these mangroves. A lot of plastic is unsecured and is swept into mangrove forests by wind and tide. Don’t litter and encourage others not to litter, as well.

Help Plant Mangroves:

Not all planted mangroves survive. So, it’s important to work under the guidance of experts who understand the challenges and with the appropriate permission.

To quote the Bahamas National Trust, “When we restore our wetlands, this leads to increased biodiversity, improved water supply, enhanced protection against floods and storms, more local and sustainable livelihoods, increased tourism and recreation and increased carbon storage, among many other benefits.”

The Role Of Parents & Teachers In Encouraging Children To Develop Great Reading Skills

lenges, parents must support the process by actively participating in their child’s educational journey.

Well Known People Who were Transformed By Reading

a bout the a uthor :

Teri M. Bethel is a publisher and author of relationship enrichment books, Bahamian-inspired romance, and adventure novels for children that share our island’s history and culture. Her books are available where good books are sold in Eleuthera, New Providence, and Amazon.com. Teri and her husband have two adult sons. Website: www.inspirepublishing.com

Learning to read is a critical skill that opens the door to a world of possibilities. For many people, the ability to read can be life-changing, enabling them to pursue education, job opportunities, and personal growth. Here are a few people whose lives turned around for the better after they learned how to read. Malala Yousafzai, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and activist for girls’ education, grew up in Pakistan, where the Taliban had banned girls from attending school. At 11, Malala began speaking out about the importance of education for girls and advocating for their rights. After surviving an assassination attempt by the Taliban, Malala continued her activism and became a global advocate for girls’ education. Learning to read gave Malala the knowledge and confidence to speak out for what she believed in, and her advocacy has inspired millions of people worldwide.

Frederick Douglass was born into slavery in Maryland in the early 1800s. Despite being forbidden to learn how to read, Douglass taught himself to read and write as a teenager. This literacy enabled him to escape slavery, become an influential abolitionist, and advocate for civil rights. Douglass’s must-read autobiography, “Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass,” is a powerful testimony to the transformative power of education and the importance of literacy in empowering marginalized communities.

1. Reading aloud in a fun, expressive manner can help children develop a love of reading. It exposes them to new vocabulary, ideas, and stories they might not otherwise encounter. It also allows parents to model good reading habits and spend quality time with their children.

2. Reading culturally relevant books develops national pride and stimulates the desire for readers to learn more about their country. Children who have not traveled through the islands get a first-hand glimpse of their country through the pages of Bahamian history, geography, adventure, and character-building books.

3. Create a cozy reading nook or a bookshelf filled with age-appropriate books. Encourage your child to read independently or with a sibling or friend.

4. Let your child choose positive books that appeal to their interests, whether dinosaurs, adventure, history, or sports, with the understanding that there are some must-reads in the mix to help to form their character. If your child struggles to find books they enjoy, take them to a library or bookstore and allow them to research different titles from family-friendly authors.

5. Establish a routine reading time before bed or after dinner. Encourage your child to read for a set amount of time each day, even if it’s just 10 minutes. Over time, they will begin to associate reading with a positive habit.

Literacy is defined as the ability to read and write, and it is a critical factor in determining an individual’s educational and employment opportunities. Without literacy skills, individuals may struggle to comprehend basic information or engage in critical thinking, limiting their access to higher education and job opportunities. Literacy is also crucial for individuals to participate in civic life, make informed decisions, and advocate for themselves and their communities.

In the Bahamas, education is compulsory for children between the ages of 5 and 16, and the government provides free primary and secondary education. However, despite these efforts, some students still struggle with literacy. The government has implemented various initiatives to address these challenges, including early childhood education programs, remedial literacy support, and teacher training programs. NGOs such as Exceptional Education Outreach and community-based organizations like the Rotary Club of Eleuthera have also played a vital role in promoting literacy in the Bahamas. Exceptional Education Outreach has supported Eleuthera and Harbour Island students for many years. Their mission is to deliver sustainable special education and literacy support to students with special needs. While assisting students and serving parents and teachers with the skills and materials to remedy learning chal-

Daymond John, founder and CEO of the popular clothing brand FUBU, struggled with dyslexia throughout his childhood and was labeled a “slow learner” by his teachers. Despite this, he remained determined to succeed and used his creativity and business savvy to launch his fashion line. Today, FUBU is a multi-million dollar company that has been embraced by celebrities and fashion enthusiasts around the world.

Another example of someone who overcame a reading disability is Muhammad Ali. The legendary boxer struggled with dyslexia throughout his youth and had difficulty reading and writing. However, he was determined to succeed and used his natural athleticism and charisma to become one of the greatest athletes ever. In addition to his impressive boxing career, Ali became a civil rights activist and philanthropist, using his fame and influence to bring attention to important social issues.

Motivating Children to Read at Home

Though a fundamental skill that lays the foundation for learning and academic success, motivating children to read can be challenging, especially in today’s digital age. The allure of screens and video games often overshadows the joys of reading. Parents can play a crucial role in fostering a love of reading in their children. Here are some tips that can help parents motivate their children to read:

Using Innovative Methods to Encourage Reading in School

Teachers also have an important role in encouraging children to read. It takes creativity, but creativity is not a new teaching tool. One of the most remarkable African American teachers in history was Ella Sheppard. Born into slavery in Tennessee in 1851, Sheppard became a music teacher after the Civil War. But Sheppard didn’t just teach music; she also used singing to teach other subjects. She believed students would remember their lessons better if they were set to music, so she created songs covering topics like history, geography, and science. Her teaching approach was so effective that it became known as the “Tuskegee Method” and was adopted by other African American educators nationwide.

Apart from this fantastic method, here are some ways in which teachers can motivate their students to read:

1. Create a library of age-appropriate books by Bahamian authors covering various genres and topics. Encourage your students to borrow books from the library and provide opportunities to discuss the books they have read with their classmates. P35

Teri M. Bethel

Retired Educators reach out to assist Evangelist Burrows

- The Retired Principals and Teachers Association of Eleuthera, in partnership with several schools in Eleuthera, were honoured to make a special donation presentation to assist Evangelist Shirley Burrows, who the group described as their Eleutheran Mentor.

‘Sister Shirl’, as she is affectionately called, said retired principal, Mrs. Karen Crean, has given her life to evangelism and to rewarding and recognizing the accomplishments of students in primary and high schools on the island of Eleuthera, as well as other Family Islands for academic

excellence.

Mrs. Karen Crean, Ms. Emily Petty, and Mrs. Theresa Burrows, together on Wednesday, February 22nd, 2023, on behalf of the retiree association, principals, teachers and students of the Eleuthera School District, presented the donation to Ms. Lilias Burrows, sister of Evangelist Shirley Burrows, and extended their support and prayers for Evangelist Burrows for a healthy and speedy recovery. In response, Ms. Burrows, conveyed the appreciation of the Burrows’ family.

(L-R): Emily G. Petty, Lilias Burrows, Karen Crean, and Theresa Burrows.

Airport redevelopment PPP bidding program launched for 14 airports

(GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES

PRELIMINARY STAGE OF BIDDING PROCESS FOR 14

ADDITIONAL FAMILY ISLAND AIRPORTS THROUGH A PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM)

NASSAU, Bahamas, 26 Feb.

2023 – The Government of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas has announced the March 1st, 2023 launch of a Public Private Partnership (PPP) designed to engage experienced and qualified private sector concession-

aires under a model to design, build, finance, operate and/or maintain the following fourteen (14) Family Island Airports:

• New Bight International Airpor t (Tier 2) - Cat Island

• Exuma International Airpor t (Tier

1) – Moss Town, Great Exuma

• Staniel Cay Airpor t (Tier 3) –Great Exuma (Option to bundle)

• Black Point Airpor t (Tier 3) –Great Exuma (Option to bundle)

• Farmer’s Cay Airpor t (Tier 3) –Great Exuma (Option to bundle)

• Leonar d M. Thompson International Airpor t (Tier 1) - Marsh Harbour, Abaco

• Treasure Cay Airpor t (Tier 3) –

Abaco

• Sandy Point International Airpor t (Tier 3) –Abaco

• North Eleuthera International Airpor t (Tier 1) –Eleuthera

• Rock Sound International Airpor t (Tier 2) –Eleuthera

• Governor’s Harbour International Airpor t (Tier 1) – Eleuthera

• Long Island International Airpor t (Tier 2)Deadman’s Cay, Long Island

• Congo Town Airpor t (Tier 3) - South Andros

• San Salvador International Airpor t (Tier 1) - San Salvador

The Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister with responsibility for Tourism, Investments & Aviation, noted: “Investors’ interest in The Bahamas’ Airports Infrastructural Projects is an indication of the global confidence in The Bahamas as a destination, especially after 2022 foreign air arrivals and overall seat capacity soared towards, and in some cases, exceeded the historic pre-pandemic levels. This move affirms the national priority and commitment of The Government to aggressively address the state of The Bahamas airports infrastructure to support ongoing economic development.”

According to Dr. Kenneth Romer, The Bahamas Director of Aviation, “In June 2021,

the Government of The Bahamas initiated a process to identify a portfolio of airports with attractive investment potential and proposed a bundle of airports likely to be structured under a PPP scheme. After a careful review, a determination was made to formally launch Phase I, with the Request for Pre-Qualifications (RFpQ) for the Grand Bahama International Airport on 28 March 2022. This next phase is considered a continuation and expansion of this initiative designed to drive traffic, improve operational efficiency, grow revenue and enhance the quality of service in the targeted airports.”

Under this PPP Program, the ownership of the airports will be retained by The Government of The Bahamas. However, private partners will be granted a concession and lease for the airports up to 30 years. Further, there will be an option to invest in the airports either individually or through a bundle portfolio approach.

The PPP process will commence on March 1st, 2023 with the issuing of the RFpQ and Project Information Memorandum (PIM) via the Department of Aviation’s website https://doabahamas.com. All interested parties are required to access the documents through the website in order to ensure that they receive all

In The Pursuit of Excellence - CEHS recognises its brightest, best & their rising stars!

On Monday, February 20th, 2023, the Central Eleuthera High School (CEHS) in Palmetto Point hosted its annual awards ceremony, highlighting the academic achievements of students at the school during the Christmas Term (September through December) 2022.

The theme for the morning’s recognition event - which took place on the grounds of the school’s campus - was, “A Celebration of Excellence.”

Moderated by Central Eleuthera High School’s Guidance Counselor, Ms. Dellareese Bethel, the program was opened in prayer by 9th grader, Tamia Knowles, and with the singing of the national anthem and pledge. CEHS Principal, Mr. Kevin Hepburn, in welcome remarks to all of the parents, and well-wishers who took the time to be there in support of students who would be singled out for their achievements, said, “The glittery-faced [students] who are sitting before you today, are the bright future of this country’s tomorrow. The rea-

son behind today’s celebration, is the success of our students during the past year, and I am grateful for everyone who contributed and played a role in bringing greatness to this institution. Our school believes in enhancing academic qualifications, along with developing qualities like, team work, adaptability, leadership, confidence, determination, respect and moral values.” He also lauded the dedicated efforts of his teaching staff and support staff members.

District Superintendent of Education, Mr. Michael Culmer, was also present for a short time, and in his brief remarks to the audience of students and proud guardians, he encouraged, “If you think you can, you will - and if you think you can’t, you won’t.” Quoting the Bible scripture, Philippians

4:13, Mr. Culmer shared, “I can do all things through Christ, who gives me strength,” and continued, “I want you to hold fast to your dreams, and know that you can be great. I want you to have a big goal, and not just come to

school for the lunch vendor or the uniform stores to benefit more than you do. You can’t come to school just to eat lunch and dress up - Make the effort to be your best. I want

CEHS Rising Stars

Grade 7

Isabella Taylor - 7A, Akia Thompson - 7B, Paris Sands - 7B, Carlito Culmer - 7A, Brian Richar dson - 7B, Stenae Glinton - 7B.

Grade 8

Clayne Stubbs - 8A, Arianna Bain - 8A, David Cooper - 8A, Deryn Johnson - 8A, Payton Ferguson - 8A, Treuna Fr ancois - 8A.

Grade 9

Tresor Simms - 9A, Tesaii Wallace - 9A, Latoria Smith - 9A,

to celebrate those students who have gone above and beyond to get the extraordinary and to be outstanding. I applaud you for that. I also want to make sure that those of you

Ricardo McKenzie - 9A, Jaedawn Fritz - 9A, Dessarinique Stubbs - 9A, Lyndesha Rolle - 9A, Nathen Albury - 9A, Matteo Albury - 9A, Rodriquez Johnson - 9B.

Grade 10

Henry Knowles Jr. - 10A, Ros’angela Ibarra Lorenzo - 10A, Gizelle Sands - 10B, Joshua Ferguson - 10A , Lavaal Fernander - 10A , Ashton Sturrup - 10A , Lanceeno Bullard - 10A .

Grade 11

D’Aundra Sands - 11A , Vanessa Joseph - 11A ,

Samantha Thompson - 11B, Nadia Brown - 11A , Valantio Sands - 11A , Rajeem Rolle - 11B, Aqueysha Cornish 11B, Cyrinique Williams - 11A , Kylin Pinder - 11A .

Grade 12 Hanna Nottage - 12A, Michael Taylor - 12B, Deonicia Taylor - 12B, Colendar Fanelus - 12B, Corshera Johnson - 12A , Caiden Spence - 12A , Darren Mackey - 12B, Levanyah Fernander - 12B, Tianna Rose - 12B, Sha’myah Hall - 12B.

Standing on the stairs at their school, the students shown represent the 2022/2023 Honour Roll award recipients. These bright students achieved Grade Point Averages in the range 3.00 to 3.49.

Education Beat

who are not quite there yet - our ‘rising stars’ - continue to make the effort. Improvement is simply finding yourself further ahead today, than you were yesterday.”

Following a talented dance presentation by student, Britania Britton, the presentation of awards then got underway. Presented in order of grade levels, beginning with the 7th grade, students throughout the school were recognized with certificates for their achievements in individual subjects, as well as those most improved. The audience on the Monday morning, got fully involved in cheering for each student as they approached the podium to receive their awards and accolades.

Those students who achieved a grade point average of between 2.5 and 2.99 were also singled out as ‘rising stars’, and were encouraged to push forward and to put in the work to reach the next level of

CEHS Honour Roll

Grade 7

Eckward Ferguson, Toni Collie, Charity Knowles, Christie Cadet, Orneillia Levy, Prenesha Cooper, Lashon Bullard, & Almitra Rolle-Meeres

Grade 8

Camilo Cooper, McKhalin Pinder, Noelle Wilson, Christina Lesbott, & Max Bien-Aime.

Grade 9 Carson Charlow, Jadon Culmer, & Carnetta Gooding.

Grade 10 -

Maliha Cooper, Mkalah Bethel, Britania Britton, D’Sean Homer, Orlandria Pinder, Benesha Mecidor, Branae Panza, Alicia Rolle, Neikeeleah Johnson, Florie St. Luc, Shemar Walker,

Tamia Major, Andrielle Gardiner, Rodnique Smith, & Hermane Exament.

Grade 11

Nikita Deal, Kyra Courtemanche, Jade Thompson, Develus Delva, Shaunia McCardy, Crache Major, Demetra Delancy, Sidnia Bethel, Rose Mary Ibarra, Lorenzo J. Cooper, Jordan Whylly, Ciara Cash,

Terrinique Sands, & Brittney Sineus.

Grade 12

Waldina Alcime, Cameron Moss, Geordia Neely, Alysha Michel, Mia Smith, Amerie Fernander, Jamaal Isaacs, Rushae Stubbs, Ishmael Exantus, Faron Carey, Shametrio Sands, Tarvan Symonette, and Sean Minns.

the honour roll.

Honour Roll students in each grade level, who had achieved a grade point average of 3.00 to 3.49 were presented with both a certificate and an honour roll pin. Students recognized for this accomplishment included: (See list on left)

A distinguished group of students, who achieved a grade point average of 3.50 to 4.00 were rewarded as Principal’s List Award recipients, with certificates and trophies. Those students included: Sohan Bryan, Tamia Knowles, Gabriel Ajul, Antonae Allen, Tamar Denton, Marcia Bien-Aime, Aretha Culmer, Alexandria Culmer, Ellis

Culmer, Carleah Culmer, Asia Jonassaint, Kamia Darville, Omarrion Dean, and Chevano Wood

One student at each grade level was also recognized for having topped their peers in academic performance, as the ‘Top of the Class’ award recipient with the highest grade point average. The seven students, which included a tie for first place in the 11th grade, were: Eckward Ferguson (7th grade), Sohan Bryan (8th grade), Carson Charlow (9th grade), Gabriel Ajul (10th grade) Aretha Culmer (11th grade), Ellis Culmer (11th grade), and Carleah Culmer (12th grade).

CEHS student Britania Britton’s dance was all part of the atmosphere on the school grounds where family, staff, and classmates gathered to celebrate the pursuit of excellence.

CEHS students who attained a Principal’s List grade point average standard for the 2022/2023 Christmas Term pose proudly.

(Back L-R): Antonae Allen, Aretha Culmer, Kamia Darville, Alexandria Culmer, Carleah Culmer, Sohan Bryan, Omarrion Dean, Tamar Denton. (Front L-R): Asia Jonassaint, Marcia Bien-Aimie, Tamia Knowles, Chervano Wood, Gabriel Ajul, and Ellis Culmer.

Top of the Class Award

Recipients beaming from ear to ear. Above (L-R): Carson Charlow - Grade 9, Carleah Culmer - Grade 12, Sohan Bryan - Grade 8, Gabriel Ajul - Grade 10, Aretha Culmer - Grade 11, and Ellis Culmer - Grade 11. (Not pictured - Eckward Ferguson - Grade 7)

‘Larger than Life’ Community Stalwart, Mr. Joshua Emerald Culmer, Laid to Rest

Mr. Joshua Emerald Culmer Sr. J.P., M.O., M.B.E., of Palmetto Point, Central Eleuthera, passed away during the month of February 2023, and was laid to rest on March 4th, 2023. He was 84 years old at the time of his passing. A dedicated husband and father, community stalwart, statesman, businessman, church leader, senior justice of the peace and marriage officer, education

founding father, and decorated Bahamian, with national awards for services to civic affairs and community development, and most recently in October of 2022, a National Honour in the category of ‘Distinguished Service Medal’, Mr. Culmer was ‘larger than life’ and a household name throughout Eleuthera. He was the subject of a Profile Feature article in The Eleutheran Newspaper in March of 2009, where he generously shared his life and times with us. On behalf of us at The Eleutheran Newspaper, we offer our deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Culmer. May he rest in peace.

Above: Mr. Joshua Culmer’s funeral was held at the Wesley Methodist Church in Palmetto Point on Saturday, March 4th, 2023.

Nat’l Aviation Plan to Revolutionize Tourism Industry, Says DPM

“It goes without saying that aviation is a critical component in our tourism industry, it is the oxygen that tourism needs. We have a strategy and we are implementing it,” he said.

The primary mandate of the plan is to ensure that all initiatives are aligned with the key priorities for aviation, which are supported by eight broad themes.

the country’s aviation infrastructure at an estimated $260 million.

“The government is using Public Private Partnership approach to provide a solution for a brighter future beyond the current challenges and inefficiencies within the Family Island airports,” the deputy prime minister said.

direction over the next three years, 2023–2026, and

intended to revolutionize the aviation industry to meet and exceed global standards.

The plan also highlights areas which will help deliver the government’s commitment to industry growth, modernization, sustainability, and innovation, and includes a short to medium “flight plan” of clear deliverables, timelines, accountability, capacity building and strategic synergies to achieve this goal.

In this vein, the government has launched a request for proposals for the development of 14 Family Island airports that will transform

He addressed concerns over increase in user fees in the Family Islands. And noted, what has not been said is that taxpayers are subsidizing the Family Island airports for almost $13 million a year, whether those airports are in use or not.

“Let me first say that what we are going to do with Family Island airports has never been done in the history of this country. This will revolutionize aviation and bring a significant boost to our Family Islands” the deputy prime minister said.

traffic; to cross roads at designated points; to increase visibility by wearing brightly coloured clothing at night; to not run across roads; and to not play near on on roadways.

“Our country cannot afford to continue to record the number of road traffic fatalities we are experiencing. We are losing far too many of our young people,” said

‘Slow Down, Stay Alive’ will be led by a National Road Safety Council comprised of professionals from the Ministry of Transport & Housing; Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation; Ministry of Education, Vocational & Technical Training; Ministry of Health & Wellness; Ministry of Public

Works & Utilities, The Royal Bahamas Police Force; The Road Traffic Department and the Department of Local Government.

“The Council will work in conjunction with the Road Traffic Department and will have primary responsibility for road safety campaigns and initiatives in the Bahamas,” said Minister Campbell. “The Council will also work to establish local, regional and international partnerships to improve cooperation, enhance networking and exchange best practices.”

He said that March, has been designated ‘Road Safety month’ and several activities have been planned to promote road safety throughout the country. Those

include: Road Safety Awareness Visibility Day; the release of a video documentary on road safety and a virtual music and road safety awareness rally on the radio stations of the Broadcasting Corporation of the Bahamas.

The Ministry will also launch, ‘Heads Up, Phones Down,’ a road safety outreach initiative targeting students and teens. This initiative, he said, will involve partnerships between the Ministry of Transport & Housing with schools, colleges and youth organizations throughout the country.

Mr. Campbell in his HOA presentation.

Above: Mrs. Charlene Johnson (on right) and Tara Hudson from the Governor’s Harbour Road Traffic Office, take part in the ‘Slow Down, Stay Alive’ campaign.

NASSAU, The Bahamas –Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper in his Mid-Term Budget Communication in the House of Assembly on Monday, March 6, 2023 discussed the Bahamas National Aviation Strategic Plan, which will outline the

is

FMC Rock Sound Pharmacy Announces Expansion

Family Medicine Center, Eleuthera has just recently opened the doors to its newly expanded pharmacy in the Rock Sound community. The FMC Pharmacy has been a vital part of the community for four years and has grown to be a trusted source for prescription medication, over-the-counter remedies, and a variety of healthrelated products.

Sidnell Wilmore, Pharmacy Manager, said the new pharmacy includes a larger retail space, with

an expanded selection of medical equipment and supplies. The goal is to offer more services to the community and meet the needs of patients.

“We are excited to offer a larger selection of products and services to our loyal customers,” said Sidnell. “Our goal has always been to provide the best possible care to our patients, and this expansion will allow us to do that.”

Originally located in the same building as the Family Medicine

Center clinic, the new pharmacy is now in its own dedicated building directly across the street.

The larger retail space makes it possible to offer a wider selection of over-the-counter medications, personal care items, and health-related products. Additionally, the pharmacy offers a range of medical equipment and supplies, including blood pressure monitors, diabetes testing supplies, and first aid kits.

Dr. Graham Cates, Medical Director said, “We are thrilled to be able to offer more products and services to our patients and look forward to continuing to serve our community for many years to come.”

Some things remain the same, however, such as the friendly, knowledgeable pharmacists and pharmacy staff, and attention to customer service. Patients can continue to use the National Drug Plan, and prescription delivery is available.

In response to customer feedback, the FMC Pharmacy will no longer close for lunch mid-day. Open hours are Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm, and Saturdays from 9:00am to 1:00pm.

For more information, please reach out directly to Family Medicine Center Pharmacy at (242) 335-2488 or just stop by and visit.

Resolutions on Haiti, Agri-food Systems, and Security as PM Davis Closed 44th Regular Meeting of CARICOM

NASSAU, The Bahamas – On Friday, February 17th, 2023, Prime Minister Davis officially closed the 44th Regular Meeting of the Conference of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) at Baha Mar. Over the course of the three-day conference, leaders from the region solidified resolutions on a number of pressing issues affecting The Bahamas and broader Caribbean, chief among them the crisis in Haiti, sustainable agri-food systems, and security issues.

Heads of Gov. discussed the Bridgetown Initiative for the Reform of Global Financial Architecture, which seeks to improve the functioning of the global financial system, particularly as it relates to Caribbean states securing better terms and conditions for accessing finance. On the issue of health, regional leaders resolved to support the

rollout of a vaccine campaign by the Caribbean Public Health Agency.

In view of the crisis in Haiti, regional leaders developed an effective agenda to advance peace and prosperity in the neighbouring state. Prime Minister Davis specifically cited CARICOM’s intention to strengthen the Haitian National Police and a series of upcoming meetings with Haitian stakeholders as the next steps slated for addressing the situation. These measures demonstrate the regional bloc’s commitment to playing a leadership role in resolving the crisis while also engaging international partners like the PM of Canada, Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, who reaffirmed Canada’s support to curb the ongoing stability in Haiti.

Heads of Gov. also discussed opportunities to spur regional agricultural

growth, namely the removal of all non-tariff barriers (NTBs) to regional trade in agricultural produce; de-risking of the sector; digitization; research and development; and review of the Common External Tariff. Leaders also received a project, “Building Food Security through Innovation, Resilience, Sustainability and Empowerment”, from the President of Guyana, and accepted that government’s pledge of US$2M towards financing and implementing this project.

Regarding matters of security, regional leaders expressed concern at the levels of violence being experienced in Member States, resolving that a holistic approach to crime reduction must incorporate strategies for economic development and reform at the judicial, police, and educational levels. The meeting ultimately agreed to a Symposium addressing crime as a public health concern to be held in Trinidad and Tobago in April 2023.

2023 All Eleuthera High School Track and Field

Schools from North, Central & South - compete over two days

The 2023 Eleuthera District High School Track and Field Championships were hosted over a two-day period, on Thursday, February 16th at the North Eleuthera High School’s grounds in Lower Bogue and on Friday, February 17th at the grass track facility in Rock Sound at Preston H. Albury High School.

Six senior high schools, and one junior high school took part. They were, Harbour Island All Age, Samuel Guy Pinder All Age, North Eleuhera High, Central

100m Sprints

Eleuthera High, Windermere High, Preston H. Albury High, and the Harbour Island Green School (junior high). Students, on the Thursday and Friday, competed in a variety of athletics, including 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, 3000m, and 5000m, races - long jump, triple jump, shot put, javelin, and discus field events, as well as, 4 x 100m and 4 x 400m relay races.

As officials and volunteers got back into the swing of hosting, and implementing the event, which had not been held

KEY:

since 2020, there were some organizational hiccups and ensuing adjustments - such as, the javelin events being postponed from the Thursday to the Friday, and high jump events not at all included in the two days of track and field.

Notably, in the 100 meter sprints, schools had two athletes participating. This sizeable number of athletes competing, combined with a challenge in the makeup of some of the track lanes, making them unusable, caused organizers to

hold the sprints as multiple timed finals, rather than the traditional heats, followed by finals.

Student performances, with the exception of several standout talents, especially in the middle to long distance races, were also noticeably challenged, indicating perhaps both a general lack of conditioning and training of the students within the schools ahead of the competitive event.

All name spellings have not been individually confirmed and positions are as recorded at the end of the competition & are subject to change after reviews.

Effort and exuberance is seldom lacking in the athletes from all the schools and especially in the 100m Sprints, little is held in as the lines of athletes tear their paths on the edge of lines and all, toward the finish line. Sprints were generally run as two groups with times determining the winners.

U20M 100m

1. Sedlan Pierre(NE)

2. Ferlandes Brazela(NE)

3. Allivenchley Pierre(CE)

4. Devilus Delva(CE)

U20F 100m

1. Vernae Neilly (SW)

2. Shania Heastie(NE)

3. Gia Morley (PA)

4. Andrea Seddembe (HI)

400m U13M

1. Lamon Seymour (PA)

2. Eckward Ferguson (CE)

3. Warrano Hudson(NE)

4. Cayden Horton(PA)

100m U13M

1. Lamon Seymour (PA)

2. Kymani Percentie (HIGR)-

100m U13F

1. Bailey Babbs (WD, 14.68s)

2. Cirena Burrows( CE, 14.72s),

3. Stenae Glinton( CE, 14.96s)

NE - North Eleuthera High CE - Central Eleuthera High PA - Preston A. Albury High SGP - Samuel Guy Pinder All Age

HI - Harbour Island All Age WD - Windermere High HIGR - Harbour Island Green School

100m Races

100m U15F

1. Lovely Sawyer (HI)

2. Jevonnae Fothergill (NE)

3. Neveah Atkinson (NE)

4. Deneiya Johnson (CE)

100m U17M

1. Kai Collins (NE)

2. Warren Hudson (NE)

3. Caleb Carey (PA)

4. Johnathan Martin (PA)

100m U17F

• Shontay Williamson (CE) -1

• Laniqua Richar ds (PA) - 3

• Aniah Butler - (HI) - 3

• Akailah Sawyer -(NE)- 4

100m U15M

1. Logan Curry (NE)

2. Syaorn Francis (WD)

3. T immico Burrows (PA)

4. Renaldo Taylor (HI)

400m Sprints Endings...painful

400m U13F

1. Bailey BaBBs (WD)

2. Krisleigh Smith (PA)

3. Rhandanique Mackey (PA)

4. Akia Thompson (CE)

400m U13M

1. Lamon Seymour (PA)

2. Eckward Ferguson (CE)

3. Warrano Hudson(NE)

4. Cayden Horton(PA)

400m U15F

1. Joanna Escarment (NE)

2. Jocelyne Jean-Baptiste (CE)

3. Savannah Thompson (PA)

4. Cordisha Heastie (NE)

400m U15M

1. Leonardo Butler (PA)

2. Alvardo Johnson (PA)

3. Kaydennor Cruz (NE)

4. Logan Curry (NE)

Like all the sprints, the results for this race were determined by the best times from two races of 5 runners and 4 runners each.

For many of the young athletes, their current conditioning made the 400m an arduous undertaking with combinations of walk, runs, and collapses confirming the extent of sheer exhaustion felt as the tremendous efforts unfolded. For the naturally talented it was all taken in good strides, with a clear edge in favour of

(NE).

400m U17F

1. Shontay Williamson (CE)

2. Darrianna Bethel (SGP)

3. Renaisha John (NE)

4. Alicia Deveaux (PA)

400m U17M

1. Th’ron PeTiTfrere (ne)

2. Juvens Joseph (HI)

3. Alvardo Rolle (PA)

4. Denero Connolly (CE)

400m U20F

1. Shania Heastie (NE)

2. Shekir a Lubin (SGP)

3. Verniece Neilly(SGP)

4. Janae Cooper (CE)

400m U20M

1. Sedlan Pierre (NE)

2. Dashawn Grant (HI)

3. Allivenchley Pierre(CE)

4. Deshon Miller (PA)

North Eleuthera High

200m U20M

1.

200m U13M

1. PeTer saunDers (hi)

2. Kyamani Percentie (HIGR)

3. Lamon Seymour (PA)

4. Jeremy Mackey (PA)

200m U13F

1. sTenae GlinTon (ce)

2. Bailey Babbs (WD)

3. Kaylice Albury (HIGR)

4. Myley Ferguson (HI)

200m U15F

1. Breanna ThoMPson (ne)

2. Jevonnae Fothergil (NE)

3. Clintr anae Moss (WD)

4. Lovely Sawyer (HI)

200m U17F

1. shanTay WilliaMson (ce)

2. Alicia Rolle (CE)

3. Gabriyon Miller (NE)

4. Akailah Neely (NE)

200m U15M

1. Malcai nesBiTT (hi)

2. Leonardo Butler (PA)

3. Alvardo Rolle (PA)

4. Jonathan Rober ts (HI)

200m U17M

1. alvarDo rolle (Pa)

2. Daeyn Johnson (CE)

3. Kai Collins (NE)

4. Daner o Connolly (CE)

1500m U17M

1. Benryco Pierre (ne)

2. Carmelo Knowles (PA)

3. Arnold Morley (PA)

4. Thompson Petitfrere (NE)

800m U17M

1. Benryco Pierre (ne)

2. Shamal Saunders (HI)

3. Car dinal Rober ts (SGP)

4. Rochardo Docilien (NE)

1500m U15F

1. shavanTe Dieque (hi)

2. Soniyah Knowles (NE)

3. Petrez Outten((NE)

4. Amelia Pratt(PA)

200m U20F

1. verneice neily (sGP, 28,58s)

2. Andrea Seddembe (HI, 28.89s)

3. Vernae Neily (SGP, 29.29s)

4. Hanna Nott age (CE, 29.61s)

ferlanDes Brazela (ne)

2. Develus Delva (ce)

3. Joshua cooPer (Pa)

4. Deshon Miller (Pa)

5. alliGenchley Pierre (ce)

800m U15F

1. Jocelyne Jean-BaPTisTe (ce)

2. Cordisha Heaste (NE)

3. Ranaria Brown CE)

4. Saniyah Knowles (NE)

3000m U17F

1. Keenyah Roberts (HI)

2. Danasia Kelly (NE)

3. Garvanna Francique (NE)

4. Kenshanique McKenzie (PA)

Teacher offers support to the winner

3000m U20F

1. Samanka Dorlus (NE)

2. Audrina Ordeus (PA)

3. Youdeline Gerve (NE)

4. Yolen Durolin

800m U17F

1. Darrianna BeThel (sGP)

2. Danasia Kelly (NE)

3. Nade Etienne (SGP)

4. Troynell Higgs (NE)

1500m U17F

1. GaWarna francis (ne)

2. Kenshanique McKenzie (PA)

3. Danasia Kelly (NE)

1

Local Distance Races

Veteran coach and key organizer of this year’s Track and Field Championships, Mr. Kennord Mackey, commenting on the overall performances, opined that a handful of naturally talented athletes stood out in the competition, but added that with the event on hold since the pandemic, the generally sub-optimal physical condition of the students was telling.

While Thursday had students, organizers and volunteers-only taking part, on Friday - the final day of competition - the school day was suspended at high schools across the island, to accommodate fellow students, as well as family and friends to come out and enjoy the

friendly school rivalries, as the crowd cheered on each race and performance.

After the dust had settled on the track in Rock Sound, rather late in the afternoon - approaching 5pm on the Friday, participating schools waited with bated breaths, as organizers finalized preliminary tallies to determine the school rankings in the Championships, and the overall school winner.

As buses readied to return students to their townships, it was announced that North Eleuthera High School had taken the dominant position during the 2023 High School Track and Field Championships, coming in first place with 69 medals and 1,009 points. North Eleu-

thera students and coaches could be seen excitedly celebrating the win, as they streamed through the exit gate.

Central Eleuthera High School took second place with 53 medals and 918 points. A close third place went to Preston H. Albury High School, which collected 54 medals and 905 points. In fourth was Harbour Island All Age School, with 42 medals and 708 points. Fifth place went to Samuel Guy All Age School, with 33 medals, and 521 points. In sixth place was Windermere High School, with 11 medals and 183 points, and Harbour Island Green School (a junior high school) in seventh, earned 5 medals, and 64 points.

1500m U13M

1. ecKWarD ferGuson(ce)

2. Ayai Bethel (HI)

3. Lashon Bullard(CE)

4. Kimmiron Knowles(SGP)

800m U13M

1. ecKWolD ferGuson (ce)

2. Isaac Roberts (HI)

3. Lashon Bullard (CE)

4. Devon Stuar t (PA)

1500m U13F

1. Kiara alexis (sGP)

2. Sanaya Hall (PA)

3. Janyiah Armbrister (NE

4. Heavenly Thompson(HI)

800m U13F

1. Kiara alexis (sGP)

2. Almitra Rolle Nees (CE)

3. Daniyah Armbrister (NE)

4. Navaha Bedfor d (NE)

1500m U15M

1. WilKen Durolin (ne)

2. Maxi Laguere (NE)

3. Mikhai Nesbitt (HI)

4. Ander son Oscar (CE)

800m U15M

1. WilKen Durolin (ne)

2. Max Laguerre (NE)

3. R. Anderson Oscar (CE)

4. Sohan Bryan (CE)

The partly prepared track was at times crowded with more than just runners.

An impressive five schools lined up for the gruelling U17, 4x400m relay. NEHS (below) out classed the competition with a commanding win (right)

Exchanges were crowded and instructions were plentiful as NE U17 Girls secured victory by a large margin in the 4x400m. Pictured above is Khloe Stewart at the end of the final leg.

4x400M Relay

4x100m U15F NE, HI , CE, PA, WD

(Back) First curve in the 4x100m with HIAS, SGP and NE on inside running hard U17F (Inset) In the end, NEHS steams home followed by HIAS - U17F 4x100m

NEHS (Blue takes the lead on the second leg as the U17M 4x100m race proceeds around the track culminating in a commanding victor y for the school team.

NEHS U20M powers home ahead of Preston Albury HS in the 4x100m relay

U20F 4x100m relay with a sprint to the finish for (L-R): SGP, NE and HI, who finished in that order

4x400M Relays, the domain of North Eleuthera High School...

North

1500m U20M

1. eDron McPhee (ce)

2. Valentino Osman (CE)

3. Clement Munroe (PA)

4. Dolsen Vernile (NE)

1500m U20F

1. saManKa Dorles (ne)

2. Yolene Durolin (NE)

3. Audrina Ordeus (PA)

4. Fantasia Charles(SGP)

800m U 20F

1. sheKira luBin (sGP)

2. Samanka Dorlus (NE)

3. Mar cia Biene-Aime(CE)

5000m U17M

1. eDron McPhee (ce)

2. Clement Munroe (PA)

3. Solomon Russell (PA)

4. Galin Charist al (NE)

800m U 20M

1. sheraDo sWeeTinG (Pa)

2. Edron McPhee (CE)

3. Valentino Osmen (CE)

4. Jaydon Knowles(SGP)

4. Shauni McCardy (CE) DISCUS U17M

Discus

DISCUS U20F

1. GranToWn caMBriDGe (ce)

2. Donnavon Hall (PA)

3. Caleb Carey (PA)

4. Tashaun KitsonV(NE)

DISCUS U17F

1. navaeh sWeeTinG (Pa)

2. Shaniece Rolle (PA)

3. Carleah Culmer (CE)

4. Sanny St. Phard (SGP)

1. shanTanae Pearce (hi)

2. Algericka Hanna (NE)

3. Haile Payne (CE)

4. Nade Etienne (SGP)

P35

Above (L-R): Maxi Laguerre, Kai Imlach, Wilken Durolin, Kayden Norcius (U15 4X400m Winners).

NEHS U15M winners of the 4x400m Relay - several individual wins on the day for members also.

Eleuhera High School (NEHS) U17M winners of the 4x400m Relay like their schoolmates in other divisions, won with a commanding lead.

Valentino Osman (2nd), Clement Munroe (3rd) Edron McPhee 1500m U20M, 1st*

PM Davis Gives Snapshot of His Government’s Financial Initiatives

NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his remarks at the Closing of the Mid-Year Budget Debate, on March 6, 2023, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis noted that his Government expected to see increased revenues and disciplined expenditures as it worked towards its goal of a 25% Revenue-to-GDP ratio, fueled primarily by “increased efficiency and fairness in tax collection and a booming economy”.

“Already, we are seeing the fruits of our strategic approach to fiscal management come to bear, as we have successfully lowered the debt-to-GDP ratio from over 100% under the previous administration to just over 80%,” he said in the House of Assembly. “We expect continued decreases, as we seek to take it all the way down to 65% by the 2026/2027 fiscal year.”

“Spending is down against our budget projections,” he added. “Spending is also on a downward trend relative to revenues, in the first 6 months of fiscal year 2021/22 expenditure was 12.6% of GDP, for this fiscal period it was 11.6% of GDP.”

Prime Minister Davis said his administration had taken proactive measures to reduce the impact of inflation, including an increase in the minimum wage and addressing long outstanding public sector wage

negotiations.

“As a result, we have directly poured tens of millions of dollars into the hands of ordinary hard-working Bahamians and mandated the private sector do the same,” he said. “This resulted in across-the-board salary increases for tens of thousands of public servants and a quality-of-life increase for all families reliant on the minimum wage to make ends meet.”

“The result of the increase in minimum wage meant that those persons received an extra 1 week’s pay every month or an increase of 24% in their base salary,” he added.

Prime Minister Davis noted that both of those moves were necessary to protect people as much as possible from the “ravages of the global inflation crisis”.

“We have done this without taking on extraordinary funding to support our balance of payments and without any drastic rundown on our reserve levels,” he said.

He noted that his Government sees no downsizing by Bahamian businesses.

“In fact, we are seeing current businesses expand and many new businesses springing up every day,” Prime Minister Davis said.

“Our confidence and faith in the Bahamian people is being reciprocated, as we see Bahamians investing more and propelling the nation’s economic growth.”

Prime Minister Davis pointed out that in his first Supplementary Budget, he spoke of the need for a fully empowered Revenue Enhancement Unit.

“Today, we are seeing the results of this effort,” he said. “We have to ensure that everyone is paying their fair share in this country.”

“Paying taxes is not something people can just choose not to do,” he added. “The vast majority of people are paying their taxes,

and it’s not fair for those who follow the law to shoulder the financial burden of those who do not.”

Prime Minister Davis said that they were seeing the best real property tax compliance rates in many years.

“The worst culprits when it came to nonpayment, and the records reflect this, were many owners of the most valuable properties in The Bahamas,” he added.

“We have ensured that they are paying their fair share.”

Prime Minister Davis said that much of the revenue gains can be attributed to the widespread economic growth his Government’s policies had created.

“More Bahamians are working now and many of those who are working are making more money to take care of their families and spend within the domestic economy,” he said. “Tourism numbers are at record levels, bringing money into our economy.”

“We have also achieved results through more disciplined spending, prioritizing high impact initiatives, and making hard decisions where necessary,” he added.

Prime Minister pointed out that where certain projects or activities had exceeded the allocation in the budget, they had been funded mainly by re-allocation within the budget, not by unfunded increases in the budgetary allocations.

“Where we have increased the budgetary allocations, for example in Social Services and with respect to certain wage payments, they have been supported by money in the bank, and informed by our need to take care of those who need it the most,” he said.

“We are fully committed to our deficit targets in this fiscal year and fully committed to empowering and providing

Prime Minister Philip Davis.

adviCe: the Role of paRents and teaCheRs in helping ChildRen develop gReat Reading skills

2. Incorporate appropriate Bahamian books into your curriculum by assigning reading assignments and activities into lessons and using reading comprehension strategies.

3. Using technology can be a powerful tool for engaging students in reading. Incorporate digital books, audiobooks, and other online resources into your lessons to provide students with various reading options.

4. Recognize students who have made progress in their reading by celebrating their achievements. This can be done through awards, certificates, or other forms of recognition.

It is important to note that reading is not just about entertainment. Read-

ing books can help build character and skills that will serve children well throughout their lives. Here are some of the benefits of reading:

1. Reading helps children develop a broader vocabulary and understand language structure and grammar better.

2. Reading exposes children to new ideas, cultures, and perspectives they might not encounter daily.

3. Reading helps children develop critical thinking skills, problemsolving skills, and the ability to analyze and interpret information.

4. Reading helps children develop empathy and better understand other people’s perspectives and feelings.

Literacy is a fundamental skill that is essential for individuals to function effectively. It is of utmost importance in the Bahamas, where communities need to embrace the art of positive communication to co-exist. Currently the Bahamian economy heavily depends on tourism and the financial sector which relies heavily on our ability to communicate. Investing in education and promoting literacy can help create a better future for all. So why not support the work of literacy in the community by sponsoring organizations that are on the frontline for our children or providing a child, a class, or a school with great reading books? After all, we could invest in our children’s tomorrow, today.

addendum and communication from the Government with respect to this process. All relevant details and submission instructions will be included in the RFpQ documents. Shortlisted parties will be invited to participate in the Request for Proposal (RFP) stage, which is tentatively scheduled to be released in May 2023.

Prospective Bidders can direct any queries via email to P3Airports@Bahamas.com, if further clarification is needed.

Relay Results

4x100m U13M HI, PA, WD U13F CE,SGP, PA,

Long & Triple Jump

Kai Collins Long Jump, U17M, 1st* (in the air)

Long Jump U13M

1. ayai BeThel (hi)

2. Lamon Seymour (PA)

3. Warrano Hudson (NE)

4. Eckward Ferguson (CE)

Long Jump U15M

1. MiKhai nesBiTT (hi)

2. Adrian Chambers (CE)

3. Tyrek Williams (WD)

4. Leonar do Butler (PA)

Long Jump U15F

Lovely Sawyer (HI) - 1

Jazmine Flowers(PA) - 2

Samaya Bowleg (HI) - 2

Amber Hudson (SGP) - 4

Long Jump U20M

Sedlan Pierre (NE) 1

Gino Fr ancois (CE)- 2

Allivenchley Pierre (CE) - 3

Galin Charist al (NE) - 3

Long Jump U13F

1. cirena BurroWs (ce)

2. Syrai McHardy (NE)

3. Myley Ferguson (HI)

4. Janyiah Armbrister (NE)

Long Jump U17M

1. Kai collins (ne)

2. Jeremiah Johnson (CE)

3. Shar one Seymour (CE)

4. Jonathan Martin (PA)

Long Jump U17F

Kymia Mackey (HI) - 1

Akailah Neely (NE) - 1

Andrea James (HI) - 3

Kanaysha Reckley(NE) -4

Long Jump U20F

1. shania heasTie (ne)

2. Alvina Saunders (HI)

3. Myeisha Carey (HI)

4. Vernae Neilly (SGP)

Triple Jump U17M

1. alGericKo hanna (ne)

2. Xavier Knowles (WD)

3. Jeremiah Johnson (CE)

4. Rashad Dieque (HI)

Triple Jump U17F

1. shanTara JosePh (ne)

2. Danasia Kelly (NE)

3. Kymia Mackey (HI)

4. Andrea James (HI)

Triple Jump U20M

1. Gino francois (ce)

2. Roshawn Munroe (PA)

3. Devilus Delva (CE)

4. Nehemiah Joseph (SGP)

Shot Put

Shot Put U13M

1. JereMy MacKey (Pa)

2. Darrius Grant (NE)

3. Eckwood Ferguson (CE)

Shot Put U15M

1. raynalDo (hi)

2. Micahel (SGP)

3. Kayden (CE)

4. Nahjee Symonette (PA)

Shot Put U17M

1. Glenvon carTWriGhT (WD)

2. Odny Auguste (PA)

3. Tavius Higgs (NE)

4. Gr antawn Cambridge (CE)

Shot Put U20M

1. DaKarai McKenzie (WD)

2. Gicari Higgs HI)

3. Devileke Delver (CE)

4. Nash Pinder (SGP)

Triple Jump U20F

1. saManTha rocK (hi)

2. Vernae Neilly (SGP)

3. Myiesha Carey (HI)

4. Cherica Baptiste (PA)

Shot Put U13F

1. isaBella Weech (sGP)

2. Markaiya Pinder (SGP)

3. Syr ai McHardy (NE)

4. Charity Knowles (CE)

Shot Put U15F

1. aisha PeTT y (Pa)

2. Michaela Dorsette (PA)

3. Roslanda Vilfor t (SGP)

4. Allison Par k (NE)

Shot Put U17F

1. anTonique allen (ce)

2. Shantinae Pear ce (HI)

3. Haile Payne (PA)

4. Faith Knowles (CE)

Shot Put U20F

1. sheKira (sGP)

2. D’Aundra (CE)

3. Allyana (SGP)

4. Hannah (HI)

seleCt poliCe RepoRts, shaRed by the Rbpf loCally

Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs

Police on the Island of Eleuthera continue to enforce our laws in an effort to curtail the use of dangerous drugs and offences related thereto. During the month of February, 2023 Officers have taken into custody a number of persons in separate incidents for possession of dangerous drugs.

• Drug Arrest

On Thursday 2nd February 2023 sometime around 11:44pm, an anonymous female caller contacted Harbour Island Police Station via phone and reported that there was an accident in the area of Queens Highway and Arawak Drive, Harbour Island. Officers responded to the scene upon arrival, reported that the adult male driver was driving in a dangerous and reckless manner and eventually collided the vehicle he was operating, a Grey Yamaha Golf Cart into a blue Chevy Equinox which was parked on the northern side of Arawak Drive. A search of the suspect was conducted and a foil wrap containing suspected Marijuana was found in his rear right pants pocket. The Suspect was arrested and cautioned reference to possession of dangerous drugs. He was transported to Harbour Island Police Station where he was processed and charged.

• Drug Arrest

On Friday 3rd February, 2023 sometime around 4:42pm Officers while conducting a road traffic check on Dry Hill Road, Palmetto Point reported arresting and cautioning an adult male after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was transported to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station where he was processed and charged.

• Drug Arrest

On Saturday 4th February 2023 at 7:15pm, Officers came in to the Rock Sound Police Station reporting that while on mobile patrol in the settlement of Rock Sound they arrested and caution an adult male of Rock Sound for Possession of Dangerous Drugs after he was seen by

officers sitting in the front corner of the building rolling a home-made Cigarette with suspected marijuana. He was transported to the Rock Sound Police Station where he was processed and charged.

• (4) Drug Arrest

On Monday 6th February 2023 sometime around 10:15am officers came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with an adult male under arrest. They reported that he was cautioned and arrested at 9:50am while at the Calmer’s Service Station after being found in possession of suspected dangerous drugs. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence.

• (5) Drugs Arrest:

On Monday 6th February 2023 sometime around 4:19pm officers came into the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with an adult male under arrest. They reported that he was cautioned and arrested at 3:50pm while in the area of Queen’s Highway near Burrows Pound after being found in possession of suspected dangerous drugs. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence.

• (6) Drug Arrest Repor t

Sometime around 9:30am on Tuesday the 7th February 2023, Officers came into the Governors Harbour Police Station with an adult male suspect under arrest and reported that he was arrested at about 7:50am same while at Main Street Hatchet bay after he was found in possession of a quantity of Dangerous Drugs, suspected to be Marijuana. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence.

•

RBPF Reports

and a red metal grinder containing suspect marijuana as a result both males were arrested and caution reference to possession of dangerous drugs and later transported to North Eleuthera Police Station where they were processed and charged.

• (8) Drug Arrest Repor t

Sometime around 11:52am on Tuesday 14th February 2023, Officers arrested and caution an adult male reference to possession of dangerous drugs while at his residence in James Cistern. He was transported to Hatchet Bay Police Station where he was processed and charged.

• (9) Found Drugs

On Tuesday, 14th February 2023 sometime around 12:50pm, Officers came in at Rock Sound Police Station with one black glove containing suspected marijuana. They reported that it was found onboard Carnival cruise ship Freedom while at Princess Cays.

• (10) Drug Arrest

On 15/02/23 sometime around 7:00 am Officers came in at the Rock Sound Police Station with three adult males under arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. They was reportedly arrested at 5:30am while at John Millers Road after they were found in possession of a quantity of suspect marijuana. The suspects were processed and charged with that offence.

• (11) Drug Arrest

Police Station with an adult male suspect in custody. They reported that he was cautioned and arrested while on Queen’s Highway, Green Castle reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs with Intent to Supply after he was found in possession of a plastic bag containing fifteen (15) individually wrapped pieces of suspected cocaine, one suspected marijuana homemade cigarette and Unlawfully Carrying Arms namely a black and yellow handle flat head screw driver. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence.

• (14) Drug Arrest Repor t

On Saturday 18th February 2023, Officers came in at the Rock Sound Police Station reporting that sometime around 8:30pm they arrested an adult male while on Queen’s Highway in the area of Green Castle after he was found in Possession of two foil wraps of suspected marijuana. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence.

• (15) Dangerous Drugs Arrest Report

On Wednesday, 22nd February 2023 sometime around 8:15am, Officers came in at Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male under arrest. They reported that he was arrested at 8:05am while at his residence after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was processed and charged.

Sound reference to possession of dangerous drugs. He was processed and charged with that offence.

• (18) Drug Arrest

On Friday 24th February, 2023 sometime around 10:03 pm Officers came in at the Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male in custody reference to possession of dangerous drugs reporting that he was arrested and cautioned after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was processed and charged.

• (19) Drug Arrest

On Saturday, February 25th, 2023, sometime around 2:00pm, Officers from the rock Sound Police Station arrested an adult American male, reference to possession of dangerous drugs. After he was found by security personnel on board a Cruise ship at Princess Cays to be in possession of a quantity of suspect marijuana. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence.

Police Reports Provided by New Providence ------

**SPECIAL OPERATION YIELDED POSITIVE RESULTS IN ELEUTHERA**

In an effort to reduce the amount of traffic accidents and fatalities, which occur throughout the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, officers on the island of Eleuthera conducted road checks to enforce the traffic laws and regulations.

(7) Drug Arrest Repor t

On Thursday 9th February 2023, sometime around 11:20am, officers while in the area of Oleander Gardens conducting road checks conducted a search of two adult males who were the passenger and driver of a brown Toyota Passo reference to dangerous drugs and firearm. During the search, officers recovered a small foil containing suspect marijuana on the driver seat

On 15/02/23 sometime around 10:32am while at Princess Cays Resort Officers arrested and cautioned two adult American females and an adult male for possession of dangerous drugs after a green grassy like substance suspected to be marijuana was found in their cabin on board a cruise ship while at Princess Cays Eleuthera Bahamas. They were transported along with the exhibit to the Rock Sound Police Station where they were processed and charged.

• (13) Drug & Unlawfully Carrying Arms Arrest

On Friday 17/02/23 sometime around 8:40pm, Officers came in at Rock Sound

• (16) Dangerous Drugs Arrest Report

On Wednesday, 22nd February 2023 sometime around 8:20am, Officers came in at Rock Sound Police Station an adult male reporting that he was arrested at 7:30am while on Queen’s Highway, Tarpum Bay reference to possession of dangerous drugs. He was processed and charged with that offence.

• (17) Drugs Arrest

On Wednesday, 22nd February 2023 sometime around 9:20am, Officers came in at Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male under arrest. They reported that he was arrested at 7:30am while on Queen’s Highway, Rock

The road checks commenced at 3:30.a.m. on Wednesday 15th February 2023, by officers attached to “Operation Protection At All Cost” in Southern Eleuthera. During this time, a total of twenty-five (25) persons were cited for various traffic infractions, eighty (80) vehicles were inspected, one hundred (100) persons were searched and seven (7) persons were arrested for Possession of Dangerous Drugs.

**POLICE CONFISCATES ILLEGAL DRUGS, ILLEGAL FIREARMS AND AMMUN ITION: SUSPECT ARRESTED

Officers on the island of Eleuthera, have arrested a 56 year old male for possession of illegal firearms, ammunition and suspected marijuana on Friday 3rd March 2023. According to reports, between the hours of 4:00.a.m and 8:30.a.m officers attached to operation “Regit Operation” armed with a search warrant, proceeded to a residence located in the area of Rainbow Bay, Central Eleuthera. While there, the officers discovered one (1) high powered weapon, eight (8) clips, one hundred and thirty-five (135) rounds of ammunition, one (1) air pistol, sixty two (62) vials of suspected marijuana oil and a quantity of suspected crack cocaine. As a result of this discovery, a male was arrested and taken into police custody.

nuRses install new exeCutive boaRd

charge of installation to the incoming Eleuthera NACB board, and commented, “Every nurse was drawn to nursing because of a desire to care, to serve or to help.” She continued, “Officers, nurses, I’m not telling you that it is going to be easy, but I am telling you - it is going to be worth it. And if you are going to restructure and restabilize the nursing profession, you are going to have to be united. If you are divided you will fall. I want to encourage you, that you can do all things through Christ who gives you strength.”

Mrs. Ingraham further stated that the new board’s responsibilities ahead, was to make the branch strong, to be dedicated to helping their colleagues throughout The Bahamas, to achieve educational and professional development goals, and to speak with one voice on issues pertinent to the profession of nursing.

munities that we serve.”

When asked about what some of the challenges were, faced by nurses currently in Eleuthera in their line of work, Nurse Johnson shared, “Some of the things you hear resounding throughout the island is the environment, the conditions that we find ourselves in trying to provide care - especially, critically ill patients. Also, supplies, to be able to do the work that we need to do. Sometimes medication is definitely an issue - in getting them, but we don’t let that stop us. We continue to try and do what we can, because we are providers of care. So, a lot of times we improvise, just to ensure that the public we serve, they don’t fall short.”

The Eleuthera district, including the mainland, Harbour Island and Spanish Wells, has a complement of approximately 40 nurses stationed within eight main clinics, and five satellite clinic locations, informed Chairperson Johnson. In light of the promised refurbished and new health facilities slated for the island, she described how they thought the upgrades could

change the delivery of healthcare in Eleuthera from a nursing perspective, saying, “We are looking forward to the facilities... It is very much needed, to be able to stabilize our patients and provide tertiary level care for our clients. Things that we can manage here - these persons wouldn’t have to fly into Nassau - we can actually manage some conditions here on the island and prevent all of that transportation back and forth... So, we await it.”

As the professional body for nurses on the island, the Eleuthera branch of the NACB, said Mrs. Johnson, was involved in a lot of collaborative community initiatives. She stated, “We want to continue, and in addition, we want the public to be aware of the work that our nurses do - and to appreciate what they are doing.”

do.

A moment of silence during the ceremony was taken to remember Senior Nursing Officer, Mrs. Monique Roberts-Cambridge of Hatchet Bay, who passed away in September of 2022. Colleagues described her as a nurse extraordinaire, and cherished the thought that Mrs. Roberts-Cambridge had been personally honoured and recognized by her peers in Eleuthera in May of 2021, while she was alive and with them, to appreciate the accolades.

Founding Chairperson of the Eleuthera Branch of the NACB, Mrs. E. Regina Ingraham, then brought the

Visiting NACB Vice President, of the New Providence branch, Ms. Allea Brown, delivered words of congratulations on behalf of NACB National President, Mrs. Joeanna Curry, and assisted with the official pinning of the incoming Eleuthera branch board members.

Commenting on the vision for the upcoming term, as they fulfill their duties throughout Eleuthera, Nurse Cornell Johnson said, “Our goal is to maintain professionalism and promote excellence... We want to focus on empowering and boosting the morale of our nurses in our various clinics... After and during the pandemic, it has been hard - so we want to hone in on the needs of our nurses and connect with them, encourage them - and continue to promote the high standard of care for the com-

lenge myself, and to write something that not just resonated with a Bahamian audience, but also a wider audience - something that anyone could watch, from any background - and totally get the message I was trying to get across. This was my first film, like a trial and error. I was really proud of myself when I saw the outcome of it. I always wanted to see my name on the big screen. So when I actually saw it for the first time - I felt like, ‘hmmm... I did a good job’.

About the inspiration to bring his works to Eleuthera and engage with audiences here, he commented, “Because of funding, it’s really hard to bring your work to different islands, especially if you want to bring the cast. But, seeing that one of the cast was from here (Lakiesha Ferguson), we thought it was a good idea to showcase what she has been doing on the outside. Also, being friends with people like Malikah Pinder, and I’ve worked with her... I wanted to showcase my talent, to bring local talent on board, and let us all take The Bahamas to the world, and the bring the world back to The Bahamas.”

Sharing some of the challenges in the local film industry, Dario described, “We really need funding to

take this to the next level, so that the international market can see that The Bahamas too can produce A-Listers in terms of acting, producing, and the whole nine yards... I think the government also needs to shine the light on performing arts in the country. We made it in sports, so, I don’t know why we can’t do it in performing arts... But we can’t just sit back and wait on someone to do it. You just have to find a way to do it yourself... You have to be passionate about what you are doing.”

While in Eleuthera, Dario worked with more local talent on a short film, ‘Deranged’, coming soon, which he said features many locations in Governor’s Harbour, and other parts of the island.

About his films, he said, “I try to keep things to where the whole family can come out (age 13 and above). I want people to laugh, and dance and cry, but even more I want people to really get an inspiring story. I don’t want to preach to you, but I do want the audience to walk away with some moral or thought to re-examine one’s self.”

NACB - Eleuthera Branch Chairper son, Nurse Cornell Johnson, making an oath of responsibility and service, as she takes on another two year s at the helm.

“ungRateful”bahaMian pRoduCeR

Groundbreaking ceremony for Golden Yolk Egg Production Project

Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis headed the list of dignitaries and participants. Also present were the Hon. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation; and Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs the Hon. Clay Sweeting who gave an address.

In his remarks, Minister Sweeting said through the Ministry’s partnership with BAIC, the project will usher in the “revival” of egg production in the nation.

He described the initiative as a “contract agreement between farmers and the special purpose vehicle.”

including Troy Sampson, General Manager; Justin Sturrup, Lead Consultant; Justin Taylor, Jerad Darville, Dundas Munning and Otaine Woodside for their contribution to the project to date.

Also present were other Cabinet Ministers, Parliamentary Secretaries; Permanent Secretaries; representatives of international partners and government agencies, members of BAIC board, teachers and students, farmers and community and civic minded individuals. The police band provided entertainment.

Following the programme, dignitaries donned hard hats and used ceremonial shovels to break ground at the site in celebration of the start of the project.

NASSAU, The Bahamas – The Ministry of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs, with Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC), Golden Yolk, and other stakeholders held groundbreaking ceremonies for a farming initiative designed to attain national selfsufficiency in egg production. The ‘Golden Yolk’ egg production project will ultimately improve food security, lower import costs, assist farmers and increase employment opportunities. The groundbreaking took place Monday, February 27, 2023 at Gladstone Road Agricultural Centre (GRAC).

He said, “Firstly, the project will see the construction of seven grow houses on New Providence that are turnkey operations. The special purpose vehicle will provide the building, the layers, vet services and other inputs. The contracted farmer will monitor and care for the investment. Upon production, the contracted farmer will sell all the eggs to the special purpose vehicle, who will deduct the cost of the inputs and pay profits to the farmer.

“The special purpose vehicle will sell the eggs to the wholesalers for distribution on every food store shelf throughout the country.”

In the second phase, there will be 15 grow houses in the south and central Bahamas, 23 grow houses in the northern Bahamas in phase 3 for a total of 38 houses in 12 Family Islands. He said egg production will grow from 700,000 to 28 million per year.

“A project of this magnitude will ensure that the eggs produced will completely reduce the reliance on imports. The Golden Yolk will have an immediate national economic impact, not just on food security, but on growing the economy.”

Minister Sweeting said through the initiative, an energy efficient, semi-automated, easy to maintain, climate smart poultry house will be constructed at GRAC.

He acknowledged BAIC’s Chairman, Leroy Major and the team at BAIC for their work in bringing the project to fruition.

Chairman Major said the aim of the Golden Yolk Egg Production Project is to promote the production and sale of quality and affordable eggs, reduce the import of eggs and make the Bahamas self-sufficient in eggs in the next 18 months.

He informed that a new animal feed mill will be constructed to support layer houses in New Providence and the Family Islands where layer houses will be in operation as this project is in progress.

Chairman Major thanked the team at BAIC

Ministry of Social Services Invites-

Selection of 50 Outstanding Women

top 50 woMen noMinees in CoMMeMoRation of the 50th anniveRsaRy of independenCe

In observance of the 50th Anniversary of Independence, the Department of Gender and Family Affairs within the Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development invites you to nominate women who you believe have earned the right to be nationally celebrated. The 5 categories include: (i) unsung heroines; (ii) spiritual leaders (iii) young women -- between 18 & 30; (iv) women in professional services; and (v) persons instrumental in advancing or influencing the empowerment of other women.

Nomination forms and the criteria for nominations may be obtained from the Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development, located on John F. Kennedy Drive and Bethel Avenue, or via the link below. Nomination forms should be submitted by Thursday, 30th March, 2023 at 5:00 PM.

Link: https://forms.gle/WpjQ6eGgnXey7LN38

Minister Clay Sweeting.

Maxwell Leary - Grand Marshall, Tina Munnings - Judge, Sybil Forbes - Judge, Minister Clay Sweeting, Ch/Supt. Shanta Knowles, Minister Mario Moxey, Stephen Bain - Judge, Kishlane Smith, and Warren PinderJudge. On Right: Winning Lead Banners for North Eleuthera and Central Eleuthera High Schools, deemed a tie by judges.

JunioR Junkanoo RetuRns

all kinds, a variety of choreographed dance lines, and themes that ran the gamut, from life under the sea, to the ultimate candied sweet tooth, as well as concepts like, ‘crime doesn’t pay’.

Four experienced professionals adjudged the colourful competition. They were: Warren Andrew Pinder - Chair of the National Junkanoo Committee; Stephen Bain - a seasoned junkanooer and a junkanoo legend out of New Providence; Reserve W/Sgt. Sybil Forbes - an Eleutheran resident, along with Tina Munnings - also a seasoned local Eleutheran junkanooer. Grand Marshall of the parade was local civic leader, Mr. Maxwell Leary. Moderators/announcers during the evening included, Kishlane Smith - Deputy Co-Chair of the National Junkanoo Committee, with Edison ‘Fast Eddie’ Dames - Bahamian Junkanoo legend and consultant with the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Mario Moxey, was in attendance in a show of support for the come-back of the junior event, and he was accompanied by the Hon. Clay Sweeting, Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, along with his family, as well as other ministry officials.

During the brief opening ceremony, Minister Moxey thanked corporate sponsors of the event who had partnered with the ministry, as well as school principals, teachers and parents who had come together to make the parade possible. He further commented, “It is very important for you to have come out and supported these youth as they show their artistic, music and dance skills before you today. I am happy that I am here on Eleuthera, just to see this... Let the parade begin!”

The parade got underway on time at

Above (L-R):

Central Eleuthera High School - Music, Dance, Flare!

DIV: SENIOR SCHOOLS

BEST BANNER

1ST CEHS & NEHS (TIE) - 67 PTS

2ND SGPAA - 57 PTS

BEST MUSIC

1S T CEHS - 77 PTS

2ND NEHS - 72 PTS

3RD SGPAA - 70 PTS

BEST OVERALL SCHOOL

1S T CEHS - 67 PTS

2ND SGPAA - 64 PTS

3RD NEHS - 63 PTS

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY

1ST NEHS - 71 PTS

2ND CEHS - 70 PTS

3RD SGPAA - 65 PTS

BEST THEME PORTRAYAL

1S T CEHS - 69 PTS

2ND SGPAA - 67 PTS

3RD NEHS- 56 PTS

OVERALL Sr. WINNER

1S T CEHS- 350 PT

2ND NEHS- 329 PTS

3RD SGPAA - 320 PTS

Photo Feature Continues on Pages 41-46

Bahamian culture taken on by the youth.

2023, Feb/March

Local Buzz

CEHS - Overall Senior School Division Winners.

Central Eleuthera High School bringing it’s theme of Bahamian pride and culture to life with colourful off the shoulder and free dancer pieces, and an energetic choreographed dance line, who engaged the crowd - ultimately taking the top title of Overall Winners in the senior high schools division.

North Eleuthera High School (NEHS)

‘Crime Does Not Pay’ was the timely theme of the energy filled North Eleuthera High School display, pictured here. From weapons, to funeral processions, law enforcers and even principals, the school moved to the beat of Junkanoo rhythms and in the process took, the top choreography spot, according to the official judges’ decisions.

Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School

Jr. Junkanoo 2023

5:30pm, and continued until after 9pm, as each school showed off their creativity, and unbridled passion of youth for the art of junkanoo. At the start, moderator, Ms. Smith had announced that a special tally team had been secured especially for the event, who would, for the first time, provide the announcers with the final results, immediately following the end of the parade competition.

So, as the final drum line made their way off of the main thoroughfare, officials gathered, along with the senior high groups who

had performed at the end, as junior junkanoo parade grand marshall, Mr. Leary announced the final results.

Category titles in the primary division for best banner and best music, went to Tarpum Bay primary. Best choreography and theme portrayal were taken by Wemyss Bight primary.

In the junior high division, best banner, music as well as theme portrayal went to the Harbour Island Green School, with the Deep Creek Middle School earning the best choreography title.

music and theme portrayal, with North Eleuthera high taking the title for best choreography and tying for first place in the best banner category.

Overall 2023 Junior Junkanoo Parade winners announced in the three divisions were: Wemyss Bight Primary School with 340 points in the primary division; Harbour Island Green School in the junior school division with 353 points; and Central Eleuthera High School with 350 points in the senior school division. See Official Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture Results in the 2023 Eleuthera Junior Junkanoo Parade Competition on the right Photo Features cont

In the senior high grouping, Central Eleuthera high also walked away with best banner (in a tie with North Eleuthera), in April for Junior Schools.

Check out these winners: Spelling Competitions

Continue - Emma E. Cooper and Emily G. Petty, Claim Champion Titles for Grades 5 & 4 (primary)

In its comprehensive spelling program within Eleuthera, the Ministry of Education hosts, in addition to its District Spelling Bee - which has students from grades 4 through 8 competing for the opportunity to represent the island at the National Spelling Bee competition - primary level spelling competitions for each individual grade, including grades 1 through 5.

The grade five, and the grade four

spelling competitions were hosted at the Ministry of Education’s Resource Center in Savannah Sound during late February and early March, respectively, as the Ministry of Education moves through the grade levels of competition.

The champion in the grade five spelling bee, hailing from the Emma E. Cooper primary school, was Breona Sineus, followed by Cay’mani Kiki-

varakis from Emily G. Petty in second, and Nicolas Posner of the Harbour Island Green School in third.

The overall spelling champion in the grade four spelling bee, which was held at the Resource Center on Thursday, March 9th, 2023, was Gabriel Fox, from the Emily G. Petty primary school.

DIV: PRIMARY SCHOOLS

BEST BANNER

1ST TB Primary- 68 PTS

2ND EEC Primary- 67 PTS

3RD GC Primary - 62 PTS

4TH DC & WB Primaries - 61 PTS

BEST MUSIC

1ST TB Primary- 73 PTS

2ND WB& EEC Primaries - 64 PTS

3RD DC Primary- 49 PTS

4TH GC Primary - 46 PTS

BEST OVERALL SCHOOL

1ST EEC Primary- 69 PTS

2ND TB & WB Primaries - 67 PTS

3RD GC Primary- 63 PTS

4TH DC Primary- 57 PTS

EST CHOREOGRAPHY

1ST WB Primary- 73 PTS

2ND EEC Primary - 67 PTS

3RD GC Primary - 62 PTS

4TH TB Primary- 59 PTS

5TH DC Primary- 50 PTS

BEST THEME PORTRAYAL

1ST WB Primary - 75 PTS

2ND EEC Primary - 67 PTS

3RD GC Primary - 66 PTS

4TH TB Primary- 61 PTS

5TH DC Primary - 55 PTS

OVERALL PS WINNER

1ST WB Primary - 340 PTS

2ND EEC Primary- 334 PTS

3RD TB Primary - 328 PTS

4TH GC Primary- 299 PTS

5TH DC Primary - 272 PTS

DIV: JUNIOR SCHOOLS

BEST BANNER

1ST HIGS - 66 PTS

2ND DCMS - 60PTS

BEST MUSIC

1ST HIGS - 69 PTS

2ND DCMS - 68 PTS

BEST OVERALL SCHOOL

1ST HIGS- 75 PTS

2ND DCMS - 65 PTS

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY

1ST DCMS & HIGS (TIE) - 72 PTS

BEST THEME PORTRAYAL

1ST HIGS- 71 PTS

2ND DCMS - 67 PTS

OVERALL JR WINNER

1ST HIGS - 353 PTS

2ND DCMS - 332 PTS

(L-R): Grade 5 Winner Breona Sineus, 2nd Cay’mani Kikivarakis, 3rd Nicolas Posner and Grade 4 winner Gabriel Fox.

Little Helping Hands Impacting Community

Marcellus Vernon Pyfrom, a sixth grade student and the Head Boy at the Wemyss Bight Primary School - was said to have asked his mom two years ago about starting his own business to make money. He shared that he couldn’t think of anything different or new that he could sell, and his mom, instead, suggested that it may be a good idea to give to others, and come up with a business plan later on. So, Marcellus shared that he decided to do just that, and give to people in his community. With the help of his family, Marcellus began the charity group called, ‘Little Helping Hands’.

The first event hosted by Little Helping Hands was a breakfast delivery to the homes of fifty elderly people in his home community of Green Castle. He was able to do this, said Marcellus, after saving money from his allowance, and cutting back on buying game cards.

In March of 2022, Marcellus’ Little Helping Hands invited all the children in his community to lunch at his home church grounds, St. Michael and All Angels. One hundred and twenty children enjoyed lunch with Little Helping Hands. The event was possible, said Marcellus, because of the help of many supporters, some of whom are now team members of Little Helping Hands.

The young sixth grader went on to partner in 2022 with other charitable organizations, like ‘Hands for Hunger’ and ‘Each One, Help One’, distributing meals and grocery parcels from Bannerman Town to Tarpum Bay.

Page. 34

PM & His agenda

support for Bahamian people and businesses.”

Prime Minister Davis stated that his Government’s reforms were “far from done.”

His Government, he noted, was moving ahead with its review of The Central Bank Act, The Statistics Act, and the Public Debt Management Act.

“With respect to The Central Bank Act, we have tabled an amendment to align our legislation with the IMF’s intent,with respect to the use of the special dispensation of Special Drawing Rights,” he said.

“We are going even further with our reforms, as the Central Bank has recently indicated to the Government that they will propose another amendment to bring clarity around open market transactions by the Central Bank,” he added.

Prime Minister Davis said that, with the Statistics Act, the present staff had been disadvantaged and his Government must fix that by legislation.

“It is an unfortunate thing,” he said.

Prime Minister Davis pointed out that his Government was “turning the page and entering a new phase of economic growth, healthy fiscal performance, low unemployment, and unprecedented investments in and by the Bahamian people”.

“We have only been in office for a year-and-a-half; but I believe that the Bahamian people can clearly see and feel the positive impact of our policies and the new direction that the country is headed in,” he said.

Giving thanks to God, and looking back at his adventures with Little Helping Hands so far, Marcellus said, “I feel very proud of myself! I will continue to help out in every way that I can in my community. I have made a list of other things I would love to do in my community like more clean-up campaigns, tutoring and reading to other kids and visiting the elderly and reading to them too.”

Upcoming Events

• March 20th, 2023 - 6pmHealth Association of Central Eleuthera (HACE) Fundraiser - Location: La Bougainvillea RestaurantFeaturing music, food and drinks.

• 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)

“On our agenda for the remainder of this fiscal year, we will initiate an unprecedented investment in food security, roll out a significant increase in social support, continue our investment in small and medium sized businesses and lend support for new businesses through the SBDC,” he added.

Prime Minister Davis stated that, in essence, his Government will continue with its “people-focused agenda”, which also included things like addressing learning loss, redeveloping and expanding 14 airports throughout the Family Islands, protecting The Bahamas’ borders, recruiting hundreds of new Defence Force, Police Force, and Immigration officers, and renovating Family Island clinics.

“We have gotten off to a good start,” he said. “Our policies have started a much-needed course correction.”

“We have reached many people, and we know there are yet many more still to reach,” he stated.

“Everyone is important to us.”

“And by working in concert with the Bahamian people, through God’s grace, I believe that we can successfully transform our economy and our Government to create a healthier, vibrant, more inclusive and more equitable country for all,” Prime Minister Davis added.

“May God Bless the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.”

• April 6th - 10th - Rock Sound Homecoming FestivalThis event welcomes both locals and visitors to the Rock Sound area to enjoy great food, live entertainment, and good fellowship among one another.(Contact: Mr. Brian Major, rocksoundbeverage@ gmail.com, (242) 376-1454)

• April 7th - 10th - Lower Bogue Homecoming Festival - Locals and visitors come together to enjoy live entertainment, local food and beverages as a community. (Contact: Mr. Vernon Neily, (242) 559-3842, vernonbahamas@gmail.com)

• April 7th - 10th - James’ Cistern Heritage Homecoming - This event is held to raise revenue for the residents and bring together locals and visitors for a time of enjoyment.(Contact: Mr. Denario Evans, denario_evans@yahoo. com, (242) 425-6136)