The Eleutheran Newspaper March/April 2023 Issue

Tourism resumes annual reception for island’s winter residents

Reception parties, hosted by the Ministry of Tourism for the communities of foreign winter residents throughout Eleuthera, made a comeback this year after the threeyear pandemic hiatus.

The winter residents reception on the Eleuthera mainland, hosted this year in Governor’s Harbour at the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, was well received, said Eleuthera Tourism Office Manager, Mrs. Glenda Johnson-Ingraham. “Winter residents here were excited when we posted it on our calendar [for this year]. The excitement was out there, and then they started calling, as we had a date change - having to push it from March 2nd to the 16th instead. So, they were excited to be back with us, as we celebrated them... The reception is all about them, actually, and us showing our

appreciation for them and the contribution they make to the economy of Eleuthera.”

The venue this year was ‘really, really nice’, said Mrs. Ingraham, where it was held at the Levy Preserve - Eleuthera’s only national park. “This is our second time hosting it there. The first time it was held near the entrance of The Preserve, but this year it was held by The Pavillion, so that atmosphere was truly nice. It was spacious, and we were able to accommodate everyone comfortably.”

She continued, “We had a live band along with our local vendors showcasing Eleutheran made teas by Susan Culmer, sauces and preserves by Octis Organics, pink sand and beach glass jewelry

“Adolescence” - Public Health professionals engage NE Youth in topic-packed seminar.

Nurses, physicians and support staff from the public clinics of the North Eleuthera Mainland, hosted a half-day seminar on Thursday, March 23rd, 2023, which coincided with the observance of ‘Adolescent Health Week’.

International Adolescent Health Week (March 20-26th) is an annual week-long designation to raise the profile of adolescent health. The week, across the world, generally consists of participatory events to inspire adolescents and their communities to ad-

vocate for a successful transition into adulthood.

The half-day seminar, which hosted fifty-six (56) students from the North Eleuthera High School, was held within the Charles Wesley Methodist Church Hall in Lower Bogue. All presentations during the morning sessions were focused on helping adolescents as they transition into adulthood. The goal was to enable adolescents to become agile, adaptive learners and citizens

who can navigate personal, academic, social, and economic challenges.

It was a topic-packed morning for the students as Nurse Edwards led the discussion on adolescent sexuality and healthy relationships. Mr. Colin Moss presented on the topic of budgeting and financial preparedness. Nurse Nicola Kelly PMHN/NIC from the Spanish Wells clinic spoke with the young people on the topic ‘Mental Health and You’, while Mr. Keyron Smith, COO of One Eleuthera Foundation/CTI presented on exploring

college and job opportunities. Violence and bullying was taken on by presenter Sgt. 1804 Dwight Rolle from the North Eleuthera Police Station, and youth activist, Mrs. Rochelle Sweeting-Deveaux tackled stress management with the young audience. Mrs. Katherine Brown, EEO Reading Resource Teacher at North Eleuthera High School spoke about adolescent literacy awareness, and Attorney D.M. Anderson talked with the youth about seeking God.

Above : North Eleuthera health team stand with participating students from the North Eleuthera High School, and guest community presenters.

Defence Force Trainees Make Most of Maritime Port Stop in Eleuthera

The Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) made a three-day port stop in Eleuthera in March, with one hundred and seventeen (117) recruits-in-training on board. The vessel arrived in Eleuthera on Friday morning, March 24th, and was scheduled to raise anchor and head back out to New Providence on Sunday night, March 26th.

Docked at Cupid’s Cay in Governor’s Harbour for the duration of the visit, RBDF Officers on Friday morning were busily marshalling the trainees as they set up muster tents along the dock near the ship.

Chief Petty Officer, Andy Deveaux, a 20-year veteran of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, and a New Entry Director for ‘Entry 60’ and ‘Woman Entry 29’ - (the formal designation of the 117 male and female recruits involved in the port stop on Eleuthera) - explained in a brief interview, how the stop

into Eleuthera, fit into the training program that the recruits were taking part in.

“We have a four phase training program,” said Officer Deveaux, “and these recruits are now in their second phase. It is a maritime phase. After they would have completed all of their maritime subjects, this is now the practical application of all the information they would have learned in the classroom. This is the opportunity for them to come on board the vessel, and see what it is we actually do. They will now have hands-on experience of what had only been discussion previously, and when the exams come around - because they have actually done it, they would be much easier for them as they would have had the chance to fully grasp and internalize the concepts through experience - a smooth flow.”

“Phase three,” continued CPO Deveaux, “is

Pictured Above (L-R): Recruit trainee Leonardo Swain, CPO Andy Deveaux, and Recruit trainee Michelle Walkine.

infantry, where they begin weapons training, as well as outdoor training, and learn how to survive and live in ‘the bush’. The final phase is an administrative and preparatory phase for the passing out parade, where we have different speakers coming in and giving them advice and information on various life and readiness topics, ahead of graduation from the recruit stage.”

Port stops into different Family Islands, said Officer Deveaux, was also an opportunity to have the scores of young people involved in their recruit training program, take time out to give back and leave a positive mark on the places they visit. “We are here in Eleuthera for the next three days, and will have the recruits involved in a number of community service initiatives, in cooperation with local administration on the island. The Commander of the Force, when we visit an island, it is his intent for us to perform community service - on all the Family Islands. This way, we make our presence known on every island, through giving back to our communities.”

The community service plan for Eleuthera during the weekend, he said was to assist a local church with restoration and refurbishment, including painting, as well as a beach clean up.

Two of the RBDF recruits visiting Eleuthera, 26 year-old Marine Recruit Leonardo Swain of Freeport, Grand Bahama and 21 year-old Woman Marine Recruit Michelle Walkine of New Providence, with family roots in Tarpum Bay, shared briefly about their experience during the RBDF recruitment training program to that point.

Recruit Swain informed that they were now in their tenth week of the program, and described, “Training overall, it’s been quite interesting. I have always wanted a military career, so this has been something I have been waiting for. I would say the biggest challenge has been coming into contact with so many different personalitiesespecially how big the Entry is - so I’ve been working along with that as each day goes by.”

Asked about his inspiration for always wanting a military career, Swain said that other than not liking the concepts of crime and corruption, he always had a desire to be part of the response in emergencies, and to protect people. “Having a serving spirit, this falls in line with how I feel and what I want to do.”

Michelle Walkine, as a young woman recruit, describing her experience during the first ten weeks of the program, shared, “It has not been exactly what I expected, because it was a lot of physical training and a lot on the body. We wake up very early in the morning, and we do runs, we go on the pier and we do push ups. We also do a lot of swimming. However, everybody (myself included) has been getting better overall as time progresses.”

Family examples and support have been her biggest motivations, said Michelle, “I was inspired by my big brother. He was in the armed forces. He did not stay in it, but just seeing him experiencing what he did - it was an inspiration for me. My father also encouraged me to join, so I took on the challenge, and so far, it has been going well. I want to make a career out of it.”

Baggage app Rollout Begins the implementation of a ‘MandatoRy’ PaPERlEss

CustoMs dEClaRation systEM.

(Mandatory use of Customs App for baggage beginning June 12, 2023)

Nassau Bahamas – On Thursday, March 30th, 2023 at the Press Briefing of the Office of the Prime Minister, Bahamas Customs announced the immediate availability of the Exempt App, enabling all Bahamians to clear Customs more efficiently.

“The Exempt Bahamas App will allow residents of The Bahamas to calculate Customs duty and pay that duty before they land,” said Mrs. Nadia E. Newton-Williams Grade I Customs Revenue Officer, Information Technology Unit at Bahamas Customs. Many customers have already benefited from using the Exempt App. Lisa McCartney, a business owner, has been utilizing the App since its release in 2022. The Exempt App enables Mrs. McCartney to move through Customs speedily.

“The Exempt App is wonderful; it has helped me to move through Customs quickly and efficiently. I load my receipts and pay while waiting to board my flight home. Once in the Customs hall, I present my bags for inspection to confirm my declaration,” said Mrs. McCartney. “It’s also helpful in keeping track of all my Customs spending in one place.”

The development of the Exempt App is a continued effort to modernize Customs. This application was driven by a desire to increase the ease of interacting with Bahamas Customs. The creation of the Exempt App is also a part of the government’s overall commitment to protecting our environment by reducing paper usage.

The C17 form currently used by returning residents will be replaced with the Exempt App as of June 12, 2023. Bahamians should download the App before that time to understand its functionality and familiarize themselves with the process. Bahamas Customs will also have kiosks available at all entry ports to help those without mobile devices. To save time, Bahamian residents are encouraged to upload their receipts as they shop and to fill out the virtual form before entering Bahamas Customs.

The Exempt App is available for immediate download in the Google Play and App Store. For more information on the Exempt App visit: https://www.bahamasCustoms.gov.bs/resources/faqs/

By Sir Ronald Sanders

( t h e writer is a n tigua and Barbuda’s a m bassador to the u n ited s t ates and the o r ganization of a m erican s t ates. He is also a s en ior Fellow at the i n stitute of Commonwealth s t udies at the u n iversity of l o ndon and Massey College in the u n iversity of t o ronto. t h e views expressed are entirely his own)

“The world is facing a crisis of development.” Those are the first words of a paper from officials of the World Bank Group (WBG), setting out a proposed roadmap for “urgent action” to tackle the “growing crisis of poverty and economic distress, and global challenges, including climate change, pandemic risks, and rising fragility and conflict”.

These are all conditions that impact developing countries, across the globe, and more particularly small economies. To these conditions must be added, high cost of living, resulting from both the economic effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and the Russian war on Ukraine.

Yet, the World Bank claims it is not able to lead such urgent action even though, as the world’s major funder of development, it should be. In its own roadmap paper, the Bank discloses that its “2018 Capital package was designed to be prepared for one mid-sized crisis a decade, and not multiple overlapping crises”. It goes on to say that Bank support “is set to decline starting [in the] Financial Year 2024 and, in real terms, Bank support today is below the levels of the 1980s”.

Worsening the situation is that the populations of low-income countries are expected to rise by 25 percent by 2050, requiring more funding from the Bank if it is to be helpful in averting economic catastrophe in these countries.

In other words, the Bank says it does not have sufficient funds to cope with the needs for development financing and thus, has called for “a massive step up in the international community’s support”. Clearly, the Bank either recognizes, or has been told by the powerful governments, which control its policies, that they are unwilling to provide more resources. Therefore, the policymakers have introduced the notion that the private sector should be encouraged to contribute to multilateral financing. In part, this is why the Biden Administration

development crisis threatens Small States

of the United States of America has nominated Ajay Banga, an Indian-American national and former Chief Executive Officer of MasterCard, to be President of the Bank.

Even accepting Mr. Banga’s skills in business, it is left to be seen if he will be successful in mobilizing the scale and type of financial contribution and participation that the Bank now evidently requires to fulfil its mandate.

Caribbean small states will be among the principal sufferers from the Bank’s resource constraints. In a separate paper entitled, “Overlapping Crises, Multiple Challenges,” Bank officials detail a gloomy picture of the current situation of these countries and their prospects. Among the conditions is the rise in interest rates, which will make refinancing of existing debt more burdensome, and affording new borrowing almost impossible. In several Caribbean small states, debt service is already above the threshold of 10 percent of exports of goods (including tourism). Indeed, debt service in some Caribbean states exceed the acceptable threshold even more.

Increased interest rates will make it exceedingly difficult for those Caribbean small states, which are described as ‘high income,’ to cope with the increase in cost of money. Among these states are Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, St, Kitts-Nevis and Trinidad and Tobago. Despite the protests and rigorous arguments of these countries that ‘high income’ is not, by itself, a determinant of underdevelopment, and that they share similar, if not exact circumstances of other small states, the policy makers at the Bank and the International Monetary Fund, are adamant in not amending the criterion. Indeed, one World Bank Executive Board member, officially representing the Caribbean, unflinchingly declared that seeking concessionary financing for ‘high income’ small Caribbean states was an “ask” that would not be fulfilled.

The paper on the overlapping crises that confront small states, provides a prescription of actions that small states should take to “mitigate the effects of global inflation, and position their economies to move past Covid-19”. One of the prescriptions is that “expenditure restraint – particularly of recurrent spending would bolster fiscal positions and reduce the need for additional debt.” At a time of high inflation, affecting the cost of living of people, decreased government revenues, and the need to cushion costs to the poor and vulnerable, the prescriptions could have benefitted from a more realistic approach, based on direct consultation with small states.

A more practical proposal in the paper was that “the international community can help by scaling up non-concessional official financing, concessional

financing, and grants; helping to leverage private sector financing; and upgrading the international architecture for dealing with excessive debt”. However, nothing has happened in recent years to inspire belief that the wealthy countries will become more responsive to the urgent development needs of developing countries, particularly small states.

Among many disheartening events are the failures of rich nations to honour their commitments to fund resistance and resilience to the adverse effects of Climate Change, and their lukewarm response to the urgings of small states for compensation for loss and damage that they endure every day.

As the roadmap paper points out, “richer countries, which significantly expanded their economies over the last decades, were the largest contributors of CO2 emissions, while small states are the most affected and face the most significant costs of adaptation.” The injustice cannot be more blatantly obvious.

There is also one fast emerging issue that the Bank does not mention in either of its papers. That issue is the threat to the rule of law and democracy, within countries, that is now posed by the high rate of inflation, the significantly higher costs

of certain foods, and higher interest rates.

These have combined to create dissatisfaction amongst populations, leading to a clamour for increased wages, and to protests and demonstrations in some countries, either opportunistically organised, or encouraged, by opposition political parties. These demands cannot be easily satisfied by small economies which are still struggling to recover from the impact of Covid-19, and which are now engulfed by the soaring prices that are a consequence of the Russian war on Ukraine.

The crises that small states face call for responsibility by all; not the feckless pursuit of narrow political ambitions, the results of which will be disastrous for all.

The policy makers at the World Bank and the IMF should listen before deciding, and in doing so they should contemplate the consequences of rigid positions at a time when the world would benefit from flexibility and mutually beneficial cooperation.

Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com

By Mike Lightbourn

Questions or comments?

Contact me at info@cbbahamas.com

life’s a Beach

In the Bahamas, our way of life revolves around the beach.

Think about it. Beaches give us a lot of pleasure and they lure millions of visitors to our shores every year, propping up our number one tourism industry. They draw second homeowners who contribute significantly to the economy.

After coral reefs, beaches are the first line of defence against storm surge - they act as a buffer between waves and buildings and roads. By absorbing wave energy, beaches help prevent coastal erosion.

So, whether we own beachfront property or not, we should all be concerned about protecting and nurturing our beaches and, by extension, our communities. The beach is our most important real estate.

sand dunes

Sand dunes are a lot more than just a pile of sand. They provide far more

natural coastal protection against storm surge and high waves than a flat beach. They reduce or prevent coastal flooding and structural damage.

Dunes act as sand storage areas, supplying sand to eroded beaches. However, they too are susceptible to erosion from tides, currents, wind and storms.

Fortifying Beaches

Native vegetation fortifies dune systems and so plays a major role in preventing beach erosion. Plants that grow on the beach must be very hardy to survive wind, waves and salt.

Native plants suited for our beaches include sea oats, sea purslane, coco plums, railroad vine, sea grape, buttonwood, bay lavender, bay lilies, bay geranium and a native scaevola. People who have beachside property can help prevent erosion by planting beach-friendly vegetation along their

property.

Communities may consider seeking permission to protect public beaches under the guidance of the Ministry of the Environment and organisations, such as the Bahamas National Trust.

Vehicles on the beach

It’s fun to drive an off-road vehicle over hard packed sand, but too much driving on a beach can contribute to beach erosion.

Vehicles impact and displace sand, damage vegetation and create tracks that contribute to dune erosion.

They can also crush incubating seabird and sea turtle eggs. Tire tracks and ruts can trap turtle hatchlings trying to reach the sea. We should be careful where we park when we go to the beach or attend coastal events, such as cook-outs and regattas, to avoid beach damage.

Thoughts On Independence - a Piece By

Our Independence in July of 1973 was the natural culmination of democratic advancements that began in 1958. The vast majority of Bahamians were in favour of this step. There were, however, disagreements as to when this should take place.

During the campaign for the 1972 election, the Progressive Liberal Party made it clear that if reelected, it would seek Independence. The British government had made it plain that if it were the position of any party, and if said party should be elected, Britain would grant Independence.

Cecil Vincent Wallace Whitfield, leader of the Opposition wrote to the British prime minister asking that the matter be decided by referendum. His reasoning on that matter was that there might be persons who wanted to vote for the Liberal party, but did not want Independence, or at least not immediately. However, Ted Heath, prime minister at the time wrote back to say that the matter must be decided by the votes of the general election.

Everyone knew at this point that Independence was a foregone conclusion, because the Progressive Liberal Party, not far from the accomplishments of 1967 (The Quiet Revolution), was on a roll. And thus the move toward Independence began. The premier, Sir Lynden, traveled from place to place explaining what Indepen-

dence would entail. By and large, this was accepted, with one major exception... Abaco.

That island had decided that it wanted nothing to do with Independence and wanted to remain British. This had gone to the extent of hiring an ex-soldier to train the men of the island in para-military tactics and guerilla manoeuvres. This, of course, was madness. Who was said island to trade with? what would be its governmental structure? How would it raise the money to do public works? The people of Abaco had relatives all over the nation that they would visit from time to time, and vice versa. It all came to a head one night when Sir Lynden was visiting Abaco and speaking at the dock in Marsh Harbour. There was a loud explosion from dynamite.

At any rate, these matters were resolved and we moved on to Independence. How well I can recall the night before Independence came into being. I for one was very proud when our flag went up. I had so many hopes for the new nation.

Today, many years later, we have seen many changes, some for the better, some not. There are some issues that still need addressing. One of them is precisely to what extent our Independence and sovereignity exist. I say this because we are inundated by foreign investment. Some of this

investment has changed the demographics of a few communities in the Family Islands. Time honoured foot paths have been eradicated. Foliage has evaporated. Excessive building has changed the character and personality, not to mention, the history of these island communities. I could blame the investor, but I don’t because this is just normal for him. I blame our leaders and ourselves. It is up to us to guard our own heritage.

This brings up a question: Is there a clandestine plan to eradicate Bahamian identity and therefore, absorbtion by inculturation?

The other question I have is

Mr. Godfrey Kelly

whether we have made progress in bridging gaps between white and black. Also, between the haves and have nots... The class barriers. There is a way to combat the erosion of our culture and identity - in the schools. We must inundate and saturate our children in Bahamian literature, poetry and games. The schools must encourage them (students) to explore further, the plethora of Bahamian literature in the local libraries within communities... those that are lucky enough to have a functioning library.

Mike Lightbourn is president of Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty.

Human Trafficking - The Modern Day Slavery

with false promises of employment or other opportunities and forced into labor or prostitution against their will. Children are also at risk of being trafficked, with some forced into commercial sex acts or domestic servitude. It is essential to be aware of these tactics to prevent them from happening. If you suspect someone may be a victim of trafficking, report it to the authorities or contact a local anti-trafficking organization for help.

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

When we think of human trafficking, most consider it a problem in large nations, but not in our little country. Not in a country that still celebrates emancipation from the tyranny of slavery since August 1, 1834. The terms human trafficking and human smuggling are similar, but there is a distinct difference. Both are unlawful. However, those being smuggled are generally willing participants and are not enslaved. Not so with those trafficked; these people have been enslaved against their will, unlike indentured slaves who sign over their freedom willingly. Indentured enslavement was practiced in the British colonies during the colonial era to poor people who wanted to travel to another territory but did not have the means. They worked to pay off a loan for an agreed period and were given free food, shelter, and passage to another country. Today in our small island nation, human trafficking is a severe problem that strips people of dignity and freedom. According to the U.S. Department of State’s Trafficking in Persons Report 2021, the Bahamas is a source, transit, and destination country for men, women, and children subjected to sex trafficking and forced labor. The report also notes that trafficking victims in the Bahamas include foreign nationals from Haiti, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and other countries.

Traffickers often exploit vulnerable individuals, including the homeless and those with limited education or addiction. Victims of human trafficking may be men, women, or children, and they come from all walks of life. They may be lured into trafficking through false promises of employment, education, or a better life or kidnapped, coerced, their families threatened, or targeted for the removal and sale of their organs. Once trafficked, they may be forced to work long hours, live in squalid conditions, and suffer physical and emotional abuse. They are lured

The Bahamian government has taken steps to combat human trafficking, including passing legislation to criminalize trafficking, and has established a National Task Force to coordinate anti-trafficking efforts. The government has also provided training for law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and judges on identifying and responding to trafficking cases. The international community, including organizations like the United Nations and the International Organization for Migration, has assisted the Bahamas in combating trafficking. These organizations offer support in areas such as victim identification and protection, raising awareness, and capacity building.

Identifying and helping trafficking victims can be challenging, as traffickers often control and monitor their movements and communications. However, there are signs that someone may be a victim of trafficking, such as being unable to leave a job or situation, not having control over their identification documents or money, and showing signs of physical or emotional abuse. It is crucial to approach potential victims with sensitivity and respect and to refer them to trained professionals who can provide support and protection. Although human trafficking is a global problem affecting millions worldwide, it is often linked to organized crime. It has also been practiced by less organized thugs who enslave people to work in homes, clubs, construction jobs, farm laborers, and more. Trafficking has devastating consequences for its victims, including physical and emotional trauma, health problems, and long-term psychological effects.

Governments, including The Bahamas, and nongovernmental organizations are working to combat human trafficking through prevention, protection, and prosecution efforts. This includes raising awareness about the issue, strengthening laws and policies to prevent trafficking, providing support and services to survivors, and prosecuting traffickers and those who enable trafficking.

Trafficked People

A young Jamaican by the name of Nigel Richards grew up in poverty. When he was approached by a man who promised him a job in the United States, he accepted the offer and was taken to the U.S. on a tourist visa. However, upon arrival, he was forced to work in a restaurant for long hours with little pay. He was also subjected to physical and emotional abuse by his traffickers. Nigel eventually escaped his traffickers and sought help from a local organization that supported survivors of human trafficking. With their assistance, he obtained legal status in the U.S. and began working to raise awareness about human trafficking.

Then there was Ashley, who was born in the Bahamas and trafficked for sex when she was 15

years old. She was lured into the sex trade by a man who promised to care for her financially. However, he forced her to work in a brothel, where she was subjected to physical and emotional abuse. After several months, she escaped with the help of a customer who reported her situation to the authorities. Desiree was born in Jamaica and was trafficked to the Bahamas under the pretense of being a caregiver. Sadly, she too, was forced to work long hours with little pay and was subjected to physical and emotional abuse. She was eventually able to escape her traffickers and seek help from a local organization that provides support to survivors of human trafficking.

The Effects of Human Trafficking on the Enslaved, their families

The effects of human trafficking on the enslaved are both physical and psychological. As a result of the traffickers’ tactics, victims of human trafficking often suffer from physical injuries, sexually transmitted infections, malnutrition, and other health issues. Furthermore, the psychological impact of being trafficked can be severe and long-lasting, with victims experiencing depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental health problems.

Human trafficking affects not only the victims themselves but also their families, communities, and countries. When individuals are trafficked, their families may be left without a source of income, and their children may be left without parental care. This can lead to poverty and other social problems, including crime and substance abuse. Communities may also be affected as trafficking often fuels organized crime and corruption, leading to a breakdown in law and order.

What Can Be done When you suspect someone Is Being Enslaved by Trafficking?

If you suspect someone is being enslaved by trafficking, there are several steps you can take. Firstly, you can report your suspicions to the authorities. This can include the Police Trafficking In Persons Unit (919 or 911), The National Task Force for Trafficking in Persons (242-322-2763), the Bahamas Crisis Center (242328-0922), The Bahamas Red Cross (242-323-7370) and Our Sanctuary (242) 819-6931. It is important to remember that trafficking is a crime, and those found guilty of trafficking can receive a 3-years to life prison sentence and up to $15,000.00 in fines. Although it is sometimes difficult to identify and prosecute the traffickers, reporting your suspicions can help to raise awareness and increase the chances of bringing the traffickers to justice while setting captives free.

Secondly, you can support organizations that work to combat human trafficking. These organizations may provide shelter, counseling, and other services to victims of trafficking, as well as raise awareness and advocate for stronger laws and policies to prevent trafficking. Donating your time, money, or resources to these organizations can significantly impact the fight against trafficking.

Finally, you can become more informed about the signs of trafficking. This includes understanding the different forms of trafficking, such as labor trafficking and sex trafficking, and the tactics used by traffickers to control their victims. By learning about trafficking, you can safely help to identify potential victims and take action to protect them. Everyone has a right to justice. If you or someone you know needs help, get help today.

Teri M. Bethel

NEHS Takes the New Eleuthera Junior Director of Tourism Title

Judges for the Ministry of Tourism’s Junior Director Speech Competition in Eleuthera, held on Friday morning, March 24th, 2023 at the Tourism Office in Governor’s Harbour, had a challenging task adjudicating the well prepared, and delivered presentations by six competing 11th grade students from high schools across the island. The topic of the speeches delivered during the morning’s competition was, “Cultivating the Spirit of Entrepreneurship through Community Tourism.”

Contenders included, Jatonia Bethel from Preston Albury High School; Crache Major and Deondra Sands from Central Eleuthera High School; Kezia Johnson, and Tashae Brown from North Eleuthera High School; and Savannah Moss from Harbour Island All Age School.

The six presentations

by the student competitors showed that they were all wellversed in the topic, which were all very well prepared, and they gave quality speeches.

Following the presentations, as judges deliberated, and teacher chaperones and students awaited the final results, program coordinator and Tourism Office Manager in Harbour Island, Mrs. Deborah Young-Fox, engaged the competitors with questions about their schools, and what made them proud of those institutions. It was a lively discussion, with students lauding the role of their teachers, the culture of excellence and pride encouraged in both academics and sports at their schools, and their desire to always put forth their best when representing their various schools at competitions in different disciplines.

P18

Pictured Above (L-R): MOT HI Office Manager, Mrs. Deborah Young-Fox; Savannah Moss - 2nd place; Tashae Brown - 3rd place; Kezia Johnson - 1st Place Winner and new Eleuthera Jr. Tourism Director; and Mr. Preston Young, MOT Island Manager.

Eldecia Thompson of Green Castle named Island School Founders Alumni Award Recipient

Eldecia Thompson of Green Castle, and Deep Creek Middle School (DCMS) Class of 2003 graduate, has been named the 2023 Founders Alumni Award recipient for The Island School on Cape Eleuthera. Eldecia was part of the first class of students to attend Deep Creek Middle School when its doors opened in 2001. Growing up in Green Castle, she attended DCMS for grades 8 & 9, graduating with the pio-

neer class of 2003 and embracing a different style of learning as a young woman in South Eleuthera.

Eldecia credits her passion for education today to her years as a DCMS student. “At DCMS, I learned to love learning! Some days, the ‘classroom’ would be the ocean and other days, we would take our notebooks to the

Above (L-R): Eldecia pictured with Island School Founders Chris and Pam Maxey, CEO/Head of School Ben Dougherty and spouse Laura.

Bahamas Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco Explores Local Farming & Seeks New Agricultural Partnerships

ELEUTHERA, BAHAMAS– One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) and The Center for Training and Innovation (CTI) had the pleasure of welcoming William U. Wong, Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco for the Bahamas, for a farm and campus tour at the Rock Sound property on March 16th, 2023. The highlight of the visit featured the “Oasis Grow House” the farm’s retractable 1.1-acre Cooling House, now operating in full vegetable production mode. Increasing

food security is of paramount importance to The Bahamas and part of the strategic plan for CTI and OEF. In his role, Ambassador Wong is seeking to provide support by facilitating new agricultural partnership opportunities between Morocco and The Bahamas.

The tour exhibited sustainable farming techniques being practiced and taught to local farmers on CTI’s campus with an emphasis on the ‘Bato Bucket’ Hydroponics System.

This high-yield, low-tech hydroponics system is easily reproduced and currently producing a large quantity of Cherry, Heirloom and Grape Tomatoes and cucumbers which are distributed island-wide.

Ambassador Wong’s fact-finding visit provided insight into some forms of sustainable farming being utilized on Eleuthera, as well as farming innovations such as CTI’s revolutionary Grow House. This facility uses technology and weather-sensitive sensors to create and maintain optimum growing conditions for crops by opening and closing its roof and wall panels to regulate internal conditions and control wind, temperature, and rain exposure. For the first time, the CTI farm will be able to maintain vegetable production throughout the scorching summer months to supply Eleuthera’s communities and businesses with fresh greens and healthful produce year-round.

“Further recognizing the need for

Shown Above (L to R): Shaun Ingraham, CEO & President, One Eleuthera Foundation and Ambassador William Wong marvel at the quality and quantity of tomatoes being produced in CTI’s retractable Oasis Grow House.

ElEuthEra Jr. tourism DirEctor

Mrs. Young-Fox expressed to all of the young participants ahead of the results announcement, saying, “You are all winners. You may not have gotten the title of Junior Director today, but let me tell you that you are all representing your school - you are doing it eloquently, and you should all be very proud of yourselves, and who you areno matter what your placement today.”

Chief Judge, Eleuthera Tourism Manager, Mr. Preston Young, commented, “It was a very difficult job for us. As you can see, we were deliberating overtime. It was a very good experience for me. All of you young ladies properly prepared. You presented yourselves very well. If you do not come out as the top person, it does not mean that you were not exceptional - you all were exceptional. We deliberated beyond the time - just to conclude who was the overall winner.”

Following his brief comments, Mr. Young announced that in third position was, Tashae Brown of North Eleuthera High School. Savannah Moss of Harbour Island All Age School took second place. The overall winner, and the student who would hold the title of Junior Director of Tourism for Eleuthera until 2024, was announced as Kezia Johnson of

North Eleuthera High School.

In a brief response to her win, Kezia expressed, “Thank you so much for this opportunity. I am really grateful, because I came here wanting to win, but not with the full confidence that I could or would win. I had come this far with the interview, and I said I would do it. So, thank you and I will make you all very proud.”

Third place winner on the day, Tashae Brown,

sharing some insight on her morning presentation following the competition said, “I approached the topic today from a young person’s standpoint. I made sure to incorporate what we want to do now, because there are many young people who would like to go into boating, as well as things like farming - despite some people thinking it’s not cool or hip. So, I feel my speech was very powerful, and it highlighted what we as young people would like to do, and how we

Pictured Above : 11th grade student participants in the Ministry of Tourism’s (MOT) Junior Director Speech Competition, hosted on Friday, March 24th, stand with MOT officials and teacher chaperones.

can generate revenue for ourselves and the country in the tourism industry - and that tourism is not a narrow box, but there are actually a wide range of things one can do.”

New Junior Director of Tourism for Eleuthera, Kezia Johnson, commenting on her speech, said, “There are many things going on in The Bahamas, and a lot of people only think of Paradise Island, Bahamar, or even the Straw Market when they think of tourism. But, there is much more to the Bahamian culture. In addition to the sun, sand and sea, we have rich culture like our Junkanoo, which shows as a people, who we are. Also, in the neighbourhood where I live in Lower Bogue, we have people who plait straw - also a rich part of our culture. What they create is beautiful, and there are many opportunities for entrepreneurship in this intertwined with tourism. You can take pictures, but you can’t take back our sun, sand or see, but you can take back home with you our beautiful and meaningful creations.”

Kezia smiled brightly as she continued, thinking ahead to her first task as Eleuthera’s Junior Director of Tourism, “I am actually shocked that I won, and now I have to go back home and write another speech, but I am very excited about it - to have this opportunity to go and represent my island.” Kezia will travel into New Providence to compete in the run for National Junior Director of Tourism, which takes place on April 27th, 2023.

Mrs. Deborah Young-Fox, commenting on the day’s outcome, said, “I am elated with the winner, because I believe that she has a very good chance in New Providence. So, Eleuthera has an excellent chance.”

Calendar Event Markers!

• April 20th - Eleuthera Business Outlook - This year’s EBO is held under the theme, ‘Forward, Upward, Onward, Together’, in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Independence, and will take place on Thursday, April 20th, at The Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce Business Hub, located at The Market Place Center, in Rock Sound, South Eleuthera. The event begins at 8:45am.

• (To Register visit: www. TCLEvents.com)

• April 22nd - One Eleuthera Foundation’s Earth Day Festival - (12 noon to 12am at the CTI Rock Sound Campus)

One Eleuthera will celebrate eleven years of community development work in Eleuthera. This

year’s event features an assortment of vendors, including those specializing in natural and authentic Bahamian products. There will be interactive games and activities, along with live Junkanoo rushout and musical performances by headlining Bahamian performers.

(Contact: Ms. Yolanda Pawar, yolandapawar@ oneeleuthera.org, (242) 829-5376)

• April 22nd - 23rd - 16th Annual Tim’s Refrigeration Eleuthera Tennis Tournament - is set to take place on the weekend of Saturday, April 22nd and Sunday, April 23rd at Knowles Courts in Palmetto Point. This year’s tournament is being held in memory of the late Mr. Wesley Rolle,

past president of the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA).(Contact: Mr Hartie ‘Artie’ Johnson, (242) 636-6787)

• May 6th - Catch Jerry Chile 10th Annual Road Race - This event is held in James Cistern, Central Eleuthera, annually. Funds raised are donated to the Health Association of Central Eleuthera (HACE). For further event information, and how to donate:

(Contact: Mr. Miska Clarke (242) 359-7995)

2023 Hope Ball: ‘Never Lose Hope’

The Correne Sands Hall at the Cancer Society of Eleuthera’s (CSE) Wellness Center in Palmetto Point was transformed on Saturday evening, March 18th, 2023 as board members of the CSE welcomed guests from all over Eleuthera to the 10th Annual Hope Ball, the Society’s signature fundraiser event - held this year under the theme, ‘Never Lose Hope’.

Guests took advantage of a beautiful new deck added at the rear of The Wellness Center ahead of the Ball to mix, mingle and have photos taken in their special occasion attire, before the formal program got underway.

CSE President, Susan Culmer, welcomed the room of guests, which was filled to absolute capacity and invoked a moment of silence for the late founder of the Cancer Society of Eleuthera, Mrs. Correne Sands, along with all the precious lives of those fallen from the disease of cancer on the island. She encouraged everyone present to join the cause and

to partner with the Society in their work going forward, and thanked all of the Society’s partners, donors, supporters and volunteers, for all that they do, and what will continue to be done.

CSE immediate past vice president, Ms. Suzette Kemp, also ceremonally lit a candle in memory of all loved-ones lost to cancer.

Master of ceremonies for the formal dress affair was comedian, David Wallace of Grand Bahama, who kept the audience thoroughly entertained throughout the evening, with an ease of experience, delivering humour, song, and trips down cultural memory lane. Carnetta Gaitor, of James’ Cistern, graced the audience with a richly timbred solo and Central Eleuthera 11th grade high schoolers - Ellis Culmer and Aretha Culmer serenaded with an instrumental performance. Music was also provided by Mr. Martin Gaitor on the piano, as well as DJ Pedro Bethel.

Picture This: RBDF recruits on island - Story pg. 10

Pictured Above: Eleuthera Cancer Society board members present special awards to cancer survivors and volunteers. Honourees included, Elsie Whyte with the Overcomer Award; Merionette Hall with the Above and Beyond Award; and Rosemary Thompson, also with the Overcomer Award.

Community members, supporters of cancer patients and survivors all came out in full force in support of the Eleuthera Cancer Society’s work on the island.

In Support of CSE

Above: Mrs. Karen Crean (center in blue), was honoured by the Cancer Society Eleuthera Branch with an Award of Appreciation as an outstanding volunteer with the organization.

On This Page: Dressed to impress, and all smiles at the 2023 Hope Ball, hosted this year at the Wellness Center in Palmetto Point - generous supporters of the Eleuthera Cancer Society’s work in the upcoming year, as they assist those struggling with the disease.

cancEr sociEty annual Ball

According to CSE organizers, the event was an overwhelming success, with all tickets sold, and a raffle held during the evening - well subscribed - all funds raised towards the Society’s efforts to assist those on the island, struggling with cancer. Ticket sales were capped at 105 tickets ($100 each) to ensure a comfortable fit for guests in the Wellness Center’s converted ballroom. Feedback from guests of The Ball, said Ms. Culmer, was very positive, and many said they were looking forward to 2024’s event. “It was our rebound from the pandemic and people were excited to come out. It was sad that we had to cut off (ticket sales) as we couldn’t accommodate the demand,” she stated.

President, Susan Culmer, expressed following her installment in 2022, that the focus of the Cancer Society of Eleuthera as they move forward would be, to include the revitalization of their Health and Wellness Symposiums, to continue the promotion of healthy life-style programs in schools on the island, to encourage more partnerships to promote breast cancer outreach, to review plans for mammography on Eleuthera, to increase funding to the organization, to continue to

assist survivors and others with cancer-related matters with travel for screening, follow-up and treatment when possible, and to continue to revitalize programs that were cancelled due to the pandemic.

Despite the challenge of taking on the leadership role during a difficult time for many following the pandemic - which affected fundraising, Ms. Culmer expressed in her message to the evening’s audience, that the needs and requests for assistance had not stopped. So, the work of the Society, she said,

On This Page: The beautiful smiles and ensembles of some who came out to the 2023 Hope Ball, all for the worthy cause of supporting those fighting the disease of cancer throughout Eleuthera under the evening’s theme “Never Lose Hope”.

Pictured Above: Mrs. Merionette Hall (on far right), a dedicated volunteer, presents members of the Cancer Society (Juanita Pinder and Maisie Thompson), with her artwork.

must go on.

She was happy to have been able to jumpstart fundraising with a mix and mingle event after installation to re-engage the public, officially introduce the new CSE board, and to let Eleutherans know that they were still here and in need of support. The Beach Walk event hosted in October 2022, she said, was the ‘biggest ever’, and an encouragement for both cancer survivors on the island and the public in promoting healthy life-styles and physical activity. President Culmer, added that the partnerships they have created with medical facilities are pivotal in the Society’s ability to assist people on the island with getting care - and specially thanked those partners and corporate donors.

The newly built deck at the rear of the Wellness Center in Palmetto Point, said president Culmer was built with future projects in mind. “We are planning a ‘Craft for the Cure’ program, where people fighting cancer can come and create an item, to take their mind off of their illness and socialize. Also their creations, if they would like, can be sold at the Wellness Center as a fundraiser to help support those in need.”

On Right: New Eleuthera Cancer Society board installed during September of 2022, include: Jacqueline Gibson (vice president), Juanita Pinder (Fundraising), Suzette Kemp (Outreach), Kevin Pinder (asst. treasurer), Sherrin Cooper (advisor), Cindy Pinder (treasurer), Sherry Fax (building/ grounds), and Susan Culmer (president).

Business Community Participants Share Guidance at CEHS Careers Day

experience to the world of work and tertiary education opportunities. This year, Monday, March 27th was the date chosen to host Careers Day 2023 at the school.

On that Monday, participating 12th grade students dressed in the career attire of their choice, and during a morning group session, they each presented a brief synopsis of their understanding of the career of their choice, why they chose it, and what they were doing in pursuit of that career. Several teachers at CEHS assisted Mrs. Rolle in assessing the senior students’ presentation, by reviewing their presentations and asking them questions about their career choices. Students, said Mrs. Rolle, were graded on presentation content, their appearance, as well as their responses in the teacher interviews.

Mrs. Rolle also invited guest speakers to the morning session. They were Human Resources manager, Mrs. Nicole Wilson, and engineer - Mr. Kevin McKenzie, both from The Cove Eleuthera, in Gregory Town. They spoke to the students about work ethics, professionalism, and what would be expected of them in the working world.

Every year since 2013, Mrs. Caroline Rolle, Family Life teacher at Central Eleuthera High School (CEHS) has been hosting what she calls a ‘Careers Day’, as senior students prepare to transition from their secondary education

The 12th graders also showcased portfolios that they had started since the beginning of their 12th grade year. These portfolios were meant to include the necessary information and documentation about themselves and their accomplishments - everything that they would need in their

Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Delegation Visits EleutheraWorking Meetings Held with Local Gov’t. Councils

A delegation from the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) government was in Eleuthera for two days in March, on a visit to experience the inner workings of several local government councils on the island, as part of a partnership with the Bahamian government to advance the efforts of the Turks and Caicos Islands to complete the implementation of local government within their country.

The TCI group accompanied by officials from the Department of Local Government in New Providence, including Administrator Lynton Pinder, Acting Permanent Secretary, Neil Campbell, as well as Minister for Local Government, Clay Sweeting, arrived in the South Eleuthera district on Monday morning, March 20th, stopping in first with the South Eleuthera District council.

The delegation from TCI watched and listened attentively as the South Eleuthera District Council held a regular meeting, and the Acting Permanent Secretary in the Department of Local Government, Mr. Neil Campbell, stepped in at different points during the discussion to highlight a particular concept or to underscore how something was done - for the benefit of the fact-finding delegates attending.

Administrator Lynton Pinder, with the Nassau Office, describing how the visit to The Bahamas came about, explained, “Sometime in the latter part of 2022, the Turks and Caicos government reached out to The Bahamas, requesting assistance with the implementation of local government in TCI. Our model was one of the many they had reviewed, and had reached out to many nations, asking for their assistance or their input. Based on my understanding from TCI, we were one of the first countries to respond, and because of the demographics of our nation in comparison to TCI, our model was ideal for them to study and to consider for implementation. Since that time the dialogue has continued, and we have already had a delegation visit TCI. I was a part of that contingent - that took place in January 2023, and the dialogue continued to point where we are now. This delegation is now here again for a second time, studying our model and seeing the way the Family Island Administrator interacts with the Council - and how the local government practitioners make it all happen, in partnership with the central gov-

ernment.”

The four-member TCI delegation in Eleuthera included: Frederico Johnson, Deputy Permanent Secretary; Tiann Thomas, Deputy Permanent Secretary; Yvette Cox, District Commissioner; and Bernadine Smith, Ministry Administrative Officer. In a brief interview, following the South Eleuthera district meeting, DPS Johnson of TCI, providing further detail on what they wanted to achieve through their visit to The Bahamas, explained, “We have taken a look at the Act, as well as the manual, and now we are getting to see it in action. We’ve been studying it for a while and seeing the different schedules and the breakdowns, it has really put it more into perspective for us... We looked at other local governments from around the region, where they have the mainland, but The Bahamas is unique for us because of the make up - where it has central government on one island and local governments on smaller islands, and you are separated by sea... Currently, we have a similar make up, where we have District Commissioners on the smaller islands, who are similar to The Bahamas’ Island Administrators. The role is interchangeable, so we already have some of the structure in place. It is just the local government councils side that we want to now put in place... We are looking to complete implementation of local government within the Turks and Caicos within this calendar year, so by the next financial year we are able to

Above: Minister Clay Sweeting along with officials from the Department of Local Government in New Providence, accompanied Turks and Caicos Islands government representatives on a visit to Eleuthera. Here, the group is pictured in Rock Sound with the South Eleuthera District Council and Administrator Harvey Roberts.

Appreciate this!

Police Corporal Renardo Brown, along with a number of community partners, including retired English teacher and Principal, Mrs. Francis Russell, and former District Superintendent of Education for South Eleuthera, Mrs. Althea Gibson, during the first quarter of 2023, generously offered up assistance to several young students in an after-school homework assistance project which ran from 3:45 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. at the Mission House in Rock Sound.

Photo Feature - Sights, Scenes and Highlights of the Junior High and Primary Junkanooers!

This feature completes the presentation of the 2023 Eleuthera Junior Junkanoo parade, which began in the immediate previous issue of this publication. As a recap, this year’s Junior Junkanoo, resumed after a two year hiatus forced on by the harsh measures introduced by authorities who implemented the cessation of normal life - termed “Lock Down”. What has emerged subsequently is the “new normal”.

For schools, the recently completed track & field competition and resumption of classes to varying degrees both bore the lingering effects of the lock-down, however the Junior Junkanoo showed no obvious symptoms.

High in creativity, music, choreography and energy, the event that was held in picturesque Tarpum Bay included three High Schools, five Primary Schools and two Junior High Schools comprising, Deep Creek Middle School (DCMS) and the young Harbour Island Green School (HIGS). The latter made their mark with energy packed, well choreographed groups, supported by good music, awesome craftsmanship and imagination which was on display in their banner designs, group arrangements and adornments. Deep Creek Middle School, the other participant in the Junior Division was not far behind in any of the categories and added to the overall success of this year’s event.

In the Primary School Division, Wemyss Bight Primary, Emma E. Cooper Primary and Tarpum Bay Primary, were separated by a mere 12 points, finishing in the respective

order as listed.

Through the features we show highlights of the sights and scenes while also aiming to give a sense of the rhythmic sounds through the

blurs and focus of motion, smiles and the momentary expressions.

DIV: PRIMARY

BEST BANNER

1. TB Primar y- 68 PTS

2. EEC Primar y- 67 PTS

3. GC Primar y - 62 PTS

4. DC & WB - 61 PTS

BEST MUSIC

1. TB Primar y- 73 PTS

2. WB& EEC 6 4 PTS

3. DC Primar y- 49 PTS

4. GC Primar y - 46 PTS

BEST OVERALL SCHOOL

1. EEC Primar y- 69 PTS

2. TB & WB - 67 PT S

3. GC Primar y- 63 PTS

4. DC Primar y- 57 PTS

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY

1. WB Primar y- 73 PTS

2. EEC Primar y - 67 PTS

3. GC Primar y - 62 PTS

4. TB Primar y- 59 PTS

5. DC Primar y- 50 PTS

BEST THEME

PORTRAYAL

1. WB Primar y - 75 PTS

2. EEC Primar y - 67 PTS

3. GC Primar y - 66 PTS

4. TB Primar y- 61 PTS

5. DC Primar y - 55 PTS

OVERALL PS WINNER

1. WB Primar y - 340 PTS

2. EEC Primar y- 334 PTS

3. TB Primar y - 328 PTS

4. GC Primar y- 299 PTS

5. DC Primar y - 272 PTS

DIV: JUNIOR

BEST BANNER

1. HIGS - 66 PT S

2. DCMS - 60PT S

BEST MUSIC

1. HIGS - 69 PT S

2. DCMS - 68 PT S

BEST OVERALL SCHOOL

1. HIGS- 75 PT S

2. DCMS - 65 PT S

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY

1. DCMS & HIGS - 72 PT S

BEST THEME

PORTRAYAL

1ST HIGS- 71 PTS

2ND DCMS - 67 PTS

OVERALL JR WINNER

1ST HIGS - 353 PTS

2ND DCMS - 332 PTS

Pages 27-34 & 39-45

Above: A student from The Harbour Island Green School showing off a bright smile, as her group depicts the colours and culture of the island, including the iconic rooster.

Harbour Island Green School - Colour, Energy, Creativity

The Harbour Island Green School take on the role of storytellers.

Deep Creek Middle School - Music, Dance, Flair!

Deep Creek Middle school highlights 50 Years of Independence.

Bahamian culture taken on by the youth.

Deep Creek Primary School

Deep Creek Primary delves deep into storytime.

Green Castle Primary School

Green Castle showcases a colourful sugar rush.

TCI offICIals seekIng To ImplemenT loCal gov’T. vIsIT wITh TheIr CounTerparTs In eleuThera.

ambassador wong’s vIsIT /CTI farmIng

self-sufficiency in the Bahamas and a dewesternization of our diets, I will be seeking a less expensive source of food for Bahamians and ways to enhance local farming and Morocco is willing to help,” says Ambassador Wong. “The first step is establishing an embassy and footprint in Morocco and then strategizing with the relevant governmental agencies, and agricultural organizations and institutions in both territories to explore synergies, best practices and opportunities to cross-train our people in different, innovative ways of growing food.”

fully launch it.”

Following the South Eleuthera District meeting, TCI DPS Frederico Johnson commented to the councilors still sitting around the table, saying, “You all have put a lot of things into perspective. You could have bypassed a lot things, and we appreciate that you brought it to the forefront for us to actually witness it. We appreciate the fact that you stopped, breaking it down and gave more perspective to different concepts. From this meeting, a lot of the questions that we had have been answered. Hopefully, we can exchange numbers and continue to further the work that we are going to do and continue to pick your brains. We just want to say thank you.”

Minister Clay Sweeting, with responsibility for Local Government throughout The Bahamas, who would travel with the delegation beyond Eleuthera, explained that the group had begun their mission in Exuma before arriving in Central and South Eleuthera on the Monday, and would move on to interact with the councils in North Eleuthera the following day. “We have introduced them to the legislation, the rules and procedures manual and all of that, to see how best they can use them in their implementation. We are also making them aware of our challenges, so their local government would be the best form we feel could be established... We have also shared with them the amendments we are looking at making next year,” said Minister Sweeting.

About the ongoing work with the amendments of the Local Government Act in the Bahamas, Minister Sweeting, added, “The committees have submitted their findings, which have been sent to the Attorney General’s Office to see how best we can help to strengthen our local government system as well.”

Among the amendments under review currently, the notion of ‘revenue raising powers’ by local government councils was one of great interest. Minister Sweeting informed, “That is one we are definitely looking at. We are waiting for the Attorney General’s office to send back their recommenda-

tions on how to implement these different areas. Also, Finance will have a say on how ‘revenue raising powers’ would be most efficiently and effectively implemented for the Family Islands. It is definitely one of the top things we want to make amendments to in the Act.”

Answering the question of what ‘revenue raising powers’ would generally look like for local councils, Minister Sweeting replied, “A local council in theory would have projects that they want to do within their communities, whether capital or others, like cleanups, which they have no funding to do. They would raise revenue by either donations or having functions to raise money in that regard... We are looking at a structural management programand whatever they collect, the central government would receive a percentage (still to be decided), to be able to assist other islands, who may not be able to raise funds the way some of the other districts may.” As an example he compared Exuma, to the much smaller island of Mayaguana.

Further describing some of the other local government amendments under consideration and the process to-date, Minister Sweeting, stated, “For the amendments process, we sent a committee to meet with all islands, and all councils throughout the country, and we took their recommendations on how they would like it to be... In all of the islands we still have the hotel licensing and the road traffic board, and we are looking for ways to beef up these decisions for them. We are also looking at possibly structuring it a little bit differently. Some councils made recommendations for a mayor - to be the name, instead of a chief councilor. Other councils and island communities took that recommendation even further for the mayor to be elected by themselves and empowered more. We also looked at stipends as well - to increase the stipends for the local councils. So there are a lot of moving parts. We will bring it all together into what makes sense, and what is feasible and workable - and then we will bring it to Cabinet for approval and hopefully to the House of Assembly.”

According to Statista an online provider of market and consumer data, Morocco has 30 million hectares of agricultural land and agricultural activities are a key contributor to its economy. In 2020, the agriculture, forestry and fishing sector accounted for 12 percent of the country’s GDP. Morocco’s main agricultural products include wheat, barley, sugar beets, olives, potatoes, tomatoes and citrus fruit. Additionally, it is the world’s largest producer of phosphate, the raw material used to manufacture most commercial fertilizers. It holds about 75% of the world’s estimated phosphate reserve and is the largest supplier of fertilizer worldwide.

In recent years, The Bahamas has faced a food crisis of a magnitude never experienced. The double impact of Hurricane Dorian in September 2019 and Covid-19 in March 2020 presented extraordinary economic challenges. Among other things, the global pandemic exposed the country’s vulnerability and inability to provide enough locally produced food to supply our population and island archipelago. These events heralded the need for collaborative partnerships and a greater investment in training and capacity building in the Agri-sector.

“With the worst of the Covid-19 crisis behind us, food security is still of great concern,” cites Ambassador Wong. Although in the initial phase of exploration, he is committed to using his appointment to engage stakeholders in the sector with a view to opening dialogue and fostering partnerships to strengthen the Agri-sector and relations between The Bahamas and Morocco.

Ambassador Wong was appointed as Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco for The Bahamas in 2022. His diverse background includes leadership roles in Real Estate, Banking, Retail, and Manufacturing. He has served as President of both the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and the Bahamas Real Estate Association for two terms. He is the co-founder and co-owner of Darville-Wong Realty and has been a prominent and active figure in the business and civic space in The Bahamas, including Rotary for over 40 years.

Pictured: TCI representatives in session with the South Eleuthera District Council.

Tarpum Bay Community Says, ‘Let’s Play Ball’

softball and baseball. So, Mr. Ronald Carey (Tarpum Bay’s Local Government Chairman), lead a team of Tarpum Bay community volunteers, who included: Mr. Alex Haley (Project Manager with American Bridge Bahamas Ltd.) Michelle Pelecanos (Owner of Prestige Landscape), Melinda Pelecanos and The Tarpum Bay Baseball Club, through the first phase of the baseball field renovation,” explained Melinda.

She continued, “This phase involved the clearing away of trees and debris from the outfield. Also, the removal of the grass from the infield and the proper alignment of the bases and the pitcher’s mound. There were many individuals who volunteered their time, service, or money to jump start the firts phase.

nations and assistance towards refurbishing the Tarpum Bay baseball field so far and highlighted their corporate donors; namely, Bishop Jeffery Knowles (COGOP Tarpum Bay), American Bridge Bahamas, Big Mac Charter, Buywise Hardware, Prestige Landscape, Heavy Equipment Debris Removal and Quick Fix.

“After years of no baseball due to Covid-19 the baseball field in Tarpum Bay was in disarray,” said Melinda Pelecanos, a local resident, and teacher at the Tarpum Bay primary school, located next to the community baseball field. Members of the community, she said, came together and volunteered their time and services to clean and repair the baseball field, with the work beginning during the first quarter of 2023.

“Our goal is to begin a community league that will allow the young children and adults of Tarpum Bay to play the game of

“The second phase involved the extension of the outfield by approximately 50 feet and the seeding of grass on the infield. Quick Fix assisted with the extension of the field by volunteering their machinery and their time. While American Bridge Bahamas Ltd. provided the fill for the outfield and the red clay for the infield.”

“Presently the dugouts are getting a makeover and once they are completed the installation of fencing and lighting will be the next focus. We are still seeking donations for both items, therefore these projects will be completed in several phases during the year,” said Ms. Pelecanos.

Mr. Carey and his team expressed a special thank you to everyone for their do-

One Eleuthera Foundation Celebrates 11th Anniversary with return of Earth Day Festival & More!

ELEUTHERA, BAHAMAS– On April 22nd, (Earth Day)

outdoor classrooms at the Island School. No matter the venue, learning was fun.” (excerpt from Deep Creek Middle School 20th Anniversary Celebration remarks). Like all of The Island School programs, DCMS is rooted in experiential learning, while providing the groundwork to give rise to the future leaders of The Bahamas. Eldecia took this newfound love of learning with her to the College of The Bahamas where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education.

Eldecia spent the first five years of her career teaching at the Harbour Island All Age School. In 2017 she was reassigned to South Eleuthera where she is currently the itinerant teacher at three schools in the South Eleuthera School District. In 2020, she was promoted to the role of Senior Assistant at Rock Sound Primary School and continued her studies receiving her Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management at the University of the West Indies. Today, Eldecia continues to serve in the administrative and teaching capacity at Rock Sound Primary School.

In addition to her career in education, Eldecia is a proud and active member of her community. From 2016-2022, she served as the Area Vice President of The Bahamas Union of Teachers (Northern Ba-

hamas District). As the youngest executive to have been elected, Eldecia managed union and teacher affairs in Andros, Abaco, Bimini, Berry Islands, and Eleuthera. Eldecia has served the local communities in various capacities; she is the immediate past Vice-President of the Anglican Church Women (St. Luke’s Parish) and is currently the Asst. Director of Youth Service in the Rotary Club of Eleuthera. In 2022, Eldecia also received the Governor General’s Distinguished Service Medal. Coming full circle, her son Donavon is not only a member of the EarlyAct Club (A Rotary Sponsored Service Club) but he is now a proud grade 7 student at DCMS.

Island School Founder, Chris Maxey, reflects, “Eldecia is our true pioneer success story. She gives DCMS credit for her achievements in education and in service to her community. There is no doubt that Eldecia is living The Island School mission of Leadership Effecting Change.”

As Eldecia continues to inspire us and all those around her, please join The Island School in congratulating Eldecia as the 2023 Founders Alumni Award recipient.

One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) will celebrate eleven years of progressive community development work in Eleuthera and in the local non-profit sector. Since 2012, OEF has been empowering communities across Eleuthera and helping to transform them into thriving, self-sufficient ecosystems. OEF continues to cultivate initiatives and new programs that support critical facets of community development including educational advancement, environmental advocacy, pathways to wellness, food security and economic empowerment via entrepreneurship and skills training. A week of celebratory activities is planned culminating with the long awaited return of the OEF Earth Day Festival on Saturday, April 22nd from 12 noon to 12 am at the CTI Rock Sound campus. The team is excited to bring the Earth Day tradition back on stream following the festival’s two-year hiatus due to COVID-19. This year’s event will feature a dynamic assortment of stellar vendors including those specializing in natural and authentic Bahamian products, body care items, herbal drinks and teas, straw craft and jewellery, delicious foods, decadent desserts, farm-fresh produce and our environmental education partners. Guests can anticipate an exciting line up of fun, family entertainment, interactive games and activities, upcycling demos, a fashion show, a school upcycling contest, a live Junkanoo rush out and musical performances by headlining Bahamian performers.

Leading up to the festival, additional events are scheduled to commemorate OEF’s anniversary and align with Earth Day, which is celebrated worldwide on April 22nd to honour the achievements of the environmental movement and raise awareness around protecting earth’s natural resources for future generations. These events will engage staff and the community in activities that support the protection and responsible stewardship of our local environment and natural resources. The first is a staff roadside clean up

Island sChool’s 2023 founders alumnI award reCIpIenT

Aerial view of the community softball field in Tarpum Bay.

April a month of Focus on Child Protection for Social Services

The Eleuthera District of the Department of Social Services, headed by Chief Welfare Officer, Mrs. Nickal Symonette, recognizes the month of April 2023 as ‘Child Protection’ month, under the theme, ‘One Nation Uniting to Protect Our Children’.

Toward this end, social workers, Rushel Green in Central Eleuthera, Tiffany Simms in South Eleuthera, and Sherniece Major and Nickal Symonette in North Eleuthera, will

be visiting high schools, primary schools as well as kindergarten schools throughout the island during the month, disseminating information on child abuse prevention.

“One child abused is one too many in our communities,” said Mrs. Symonette. She added, “The Department of Social Services Eleuthera District works and will continue to work assiduously to eradicate all forms of child abuse.”

UNICEF highlights that Violence against children takes many forms including physical, sexual and emotional abuse and may involve neglect or deprivation. Similarly a wide range of perpetrators commit violence against children, such as family members, intimate partners, teachers, neighbours, strangers and other children.

taking place in Rock Sound on Saturday, April 15th. The goal will be to remove debris and unsightly trash but also raise awareness around taking personal responsibility for public spaces and stopping littering in our communities.

On Friday, April 21st, an Open House and Youth Volunteer Day is planned. Local high school seniors will be invited to spend the day at the CTI campus and farm where they will volunteer alongside OEF’s staff to learn sustainable farming practices, explore hydroponic farming first-hand, and contribute to the daily tasks associated with planting, harvesting and operating the farm. The students will be exposed to the importance of achieving food security and knowing “how” your food is grown to ensure it’s free of toxic chemicals, and safe for consumption and for the environment. To wrap up, and reinforce the farm-to-table experience the students will be treated to an afternoon meal made with freshly-harvested produce from the farm, at Farmer’s Table restaurant before enjoying some leisurely pool time.

A free community farm tour is also part of the Open House event on April 21st.

Members of the public will be hosted on a 1-hour, interactive tour starting at 2pm. The tour will highlight the history of Bahamian agriculture and demonstrate the farm’s revolutionary 1-1-acre, retractable Grow House, which is currently entering full production with an abundance of vibrant produce. Tour guests will witness sustainable farming techniques including a vertical Hydroponic “Bato Bucket” system growing large quantities of robust heirloom, grape and plum tomatoes and cucumbers, a Deep-Water Hydroponic Pool producing a variety of exceptional leafy greens and in-ground planting beds flourishing with staple crops including carrots, cabbage, shishito peppers, kale and beets. To reserve a space for yourself or your organization on the farm tour, email info@oneeleuthera.org. With a week of educational, fun, inclusive, community-minded and environmentally conscious events planned, OEF’s 11th Anniversary is poised to bring Eleuthera’s communities together and promote the ongoing work of the One Eleuthera Foundation.

Organizers expressed sincere thanks to all the presenters, the principal and guidance department, the students, and everyone that donated to the cause, which helped to make the seminar successful.

The public clinics team from North Eleuthera Mainland also visited the Laura L. Anderson Primary school during ‘Adolescent Health Week’ to discuss transitioning from primary to secondary/high school and maintaining a healthy diet.

Earlier in March, on Saturday the 11th, the public clinic medical staff in North Eleuthera Mainland conducted a health screening initiative commemorating World TB and Kidney Disease Awareness Month at the North Eleuthera Shopping Centre.

Nurse Bianca Edwards, described, “We partnered with the store, and all of the people that were screened were given discounts on water, fruits, and vegetables. People were seen and counseled by the physician Dr. D. Russell and were able to have their blood pressure, weight, cholesterol, blood glucose, and iron checked free of charge. The staff of Mainland aims to continue carrying out the Ministry of Health & Wellness mandate to provide optimal health for all residents, encompassing coming out of the four walls of the clinic and making the services accessible to all clients. We thank all participants and the management of North Eleuthera Shopping Centre for assisting us in this health initiative.”

“healTh offICIals”engage YouTh In semInar

Sherniece Major and Nickal Symonette

Tiffany Simms, South Eleuthera

Rushel Green (right) with Central team member.

Nurse Bianca Edwards (center in white) stand with seminar presenters.

RBPF Reports

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 March, 2023 Officers have taken into custody a number of persons in separate incidents for possession of dangerous drugs.

• Drug Arrest

On Friday 24th March, 2023 sometime around 1:35am Officers came in at the Harbour Island Police Station with an adult male under arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs and reported that he was arrested and cautioned while at Barracks Street. After he was found in possession of a quantity of dangerous drugs. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence.

• Drug Arrest

On Friday 24th March, 2023 sometime around 1:35am Officers came in at the Harbour Island Police Station with two adult males under arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs they reported that they were arrested and cautioned while at Barracks Street after they were found in possession of a quantity of suspected marijuana. Both suspects were processed and charged.

• Drug Arrest

On Wednesday, 22nd March 2023 sometime around 10:23am, Officers executed a search warrant on the residence of an adult male. As a result of the search, officers discovered a can containing a Ziploc bag with 21 foil wraps of suspected marijuana. The suspect was arrested and cautioned. He was transported to the Rock Sound Police Station where he was charged with Possession of Dangerous drugs with Intent to supply.

• Drug Arrest

On Wednesday, 22nd March 2023 sometime around 1:05pm, Officers while at Half Moon Cay, acting on information received from Security personnel on board a Cruise Ship arrested and cautioned an adult male and

an adult female for possession of dangerous drugs, namely Indian hemp. Information received was that both persons were guests residing in a cabin. Security searched the cabin and found in their possession the illegal substances. Both persons were processed and charged for possession of Dangerous drugs.

• Drugs Confiscation and Arrest Report

Police confiscated a quantity of suspected marijuana and cocaine, on Monday 20th March 2023 According to authorities, shortly after 10:00.p.m, officers attached to “Operation Spring Break”, conducted special patrols in Harbour Island. Acting on information, the officers executed a search warrant on a residence, located on Colebrook Street. During this search, the officers discovered a quantity of marijuana and cocaine. As a result, two males were cautioned and arrested for Possession of Dangerous Drugs and taken into police custody. They were subsequently processed and charged. The estimated weight and street value is unknown at this time.

• Drug Arrest Report

On Tuesday the 21st of March 2023, Officers came in at the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that while in the area of the Viccum Night Club located on Barrack Street, they arrested and cautioned two adult males reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs namely marijuana. Both were processed and charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs.

• Drug Arrest Report

On Monday 13th March, 2023 sometime around 1:38pm, officers came in at the RS.P.S Station with an adult male under arrest.

Officers reported that he was arrested and cautioned sometime around 1:30pm, while at Queens Highway, Tarpum Bay, after officers found him in possession of a quantity of suspect marijuana. The suspect then began Resisting Arrest. As a result, he was subdued and transported to the Rock Sound Police Station where he was processed and charged.

• Drug Arrest

On Tuesday the 14th of March 2023 at 6:30am Officers came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with an adult male under arrest reference to possession of dangerous drugs. They reported that at 5:58am they arrested and caution suspect reference to possession of dangerous drugs whilst in Hatchet Bay, The suspect was processed and charged.

• Drug Arrest

On Tuesday the 14th of March 2023 at 7:35am Officers executed a search warrant on the residence of an adult male at Palmetto Point, during the search a quantity of marijuana was discovered. As a result, the suspect was arrested and cautioned. He was transported to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station where he was charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs.

• Drug Arrest

On Tuesday the 14th March 2023, while conducting Road Check duties in the area of Boiling Hole Road, Governor’s Harbour, observed a black Buick Lacrosse that was not licensed for the current year. The vehicle was stopped and searched. While searching the vehicle, officers discovered two (2) marijuana cigarettes. As a result, the adult male occupant was arrested and cautioned. He was subsequently processed and charged.

• Drug Arrest

On Tuesday the 14th of March 2023 at 9:15 am officers came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with an adult male under arrest reference to possession of dangerous. They reported that at 8:50 am they arrested and caution suspect reference to possession of dangerous drugs after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspect marijuana.

• Drug Arrest Report

On Saturday 11th March, 2023 sometime around 2:25pm, Officers came in at Governors Harbour Police Station with an adult male, they reported arresting and cautioning the suspect at 2:00pm while on static check point Queen’s Highway Governor’s Harbour 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.

• Dangerous Drugs Arrest Report

On Thursday 9th March 2023 at about 11:30am officers while conducting Road Traffic Checks on Queens Highway Governor’s Harbour, stopped a Grey Nissan that had a strong scent of suspected Marijuana emanating from the inside of the vehicle. As a result, the adult male driver was searched reference to Dangerous drugs and firearms. While searching his red wallet, officers found two (2) clear plastic bags containing a green grassy substance believed to be Marijuana. As a result, the suspect was then arrested and cautioned reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. The suspect was transported to Governors Harbour Police Station.

• Dangerous Drugs Arrest Report

On Tuesday, 7th March 2023 sometime around 1:06pm, Officers came in at Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male and reported that he was arrested and cautioned him at 12:40pm while on Queens Highway, Green Castle reference to possession of dangerous drugs after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspected marijuana. He was processed and charged.

• Drugs Arrest

On Tuesday, 7th March 2023 sometime around 1:06pm,

Officers reported that they arrested and cautioned an adult male at 12:40pm while on Queen’s Highway, Green Castle reference to possession of dangerous drugs after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspect marijuana.

Additional Eleuthera Reports - Provided By New Providence Police

** ELEUTHERA DIVISION CONDUCTS SPECIAL OPERATION**

Officers on the island of Eleuthera, launched a special operation which yielded positive results on Wednesday 22nd March 2023. This initiative, was executed by officers attached to ‘Flying Squad’, who conducted patrols in the area of Queens Highway, Tarpum Bay, South Eleuthera. During this initiative, a thirty (30) year old male was arrested for Possession of Dangerous Drugs, with the Intent to Supply. The suspected marijuana, weighed one pound seven ounces (1lb 7oz) with an estimated street value of $1,105. Investigations continue in this matter.

Police wishes to advise members of the public to obey ALL laws that govern the Commonwealth of the Bahamas; as the police will be relentless in pursuing all offenders.

*SPECIAL OPERATION YIELDED POSITIVE RESULTS IN ELEUTHERA**

Road checks commenced between the hours of 4 a.m. and 7.p.m. on Tuesday 14th March 2023, by officers attached to “Operation Avalanche”. During this time, a total of seventysix (76) persons were cited for various traffic infractions, eight hundred and thirty-five (835) vehicles were inspected, twenty-seven (27) vehicles were searched, seven (7) search warrants were executed and seven (7) persons were arrested for Immigration Purposes and Possession of Dangerous Drugs.

Wemyss Bight Primary School

Creative costuming as Wemyss Bight Primary presents ‘The Deep Blue Sea’.

Tarpum Bay Primary School

Tarpum Bay Primary highlights ‘Education’ - Back then and now.

Emma E. Cooper Primary School

Emma E. Cooper Primary showcases our Beautiful Bahamaland.

Cehs Careers daY

future job searches, interviews and college applications - including their resumes, national insurance, their bios (autobiographies), references, certificates and more.

Guidance Counsellor at CEHS, Mrs. Dellareese Bethel, also added another layer to the day this year, with the addition of a Careers Fair, which followed the morning presentations. As students completed their presentations and group interaction in the classroom, they transitioned to the Careers Fair, held on the front lawn grounds of the school.

They toured through booths set up by companies and business people from the Central Eleuthera community, who took the time to share information about their particular career or field of business for the curious students.

Commenting on the Careers Fair segment of the day, Mrs. Bethel, shared, “The Fair to me was a great success for the first attempt, we had CIBC’s team, BTC, the ALIV/Cable Bahamas crew, Mr. Cartwright from ‘Simple Landscapes’, Mr. Sands - a mortician from Green Castle, Mr. Denny Rankine with the Ministry of Fisheries, BAMSI was in the building, Bahamas Wellness team of nurses, Social Services was represented, Mr. Albert Archer from Island Insurance was here, The Center for Training and Innovation (CTI), and other entrepreneurs.”

From 11am to 1pm, 10th, 11th, and 12th graders at CEHS thronged the booths of community participants, asking questions, collecting information pamphlets, and listening to organization representatives, as they spoke about their industries, what they did, and what students would have to do or study if they were interested in a specific career.

The intersecting thought expressed by many community participants was how important they thought it was to take the time out to share their insights and knowledge of their careers and

industries with the students who would be preparing to graduate this year, and over the next few years.

Several of the organizations were asked what it was like for them to take part and what it meant for them or their organizations to share the information and advice given to students during the Careers Fair.

Syntyche Culmer, with CIBC First Caribbean, and also a former student of the school, said, “What we were trying to do today was to encourage the students to work in finance, and to also enlighten them that in doing any business you have to deal with everything as it relates to finance as well.

We are actually the hub for every other business that was here today - so we tried to highlight this point to students - that you still have to have some element of knowledge of finance. Banking plays a role in that, with them opening accounts - and we encourage it to be done from a young age with their parents - so, when it comes to entering the ‘real’ world after graduation, they would already be equipped to deal with those things.”

At the Bahamas Wellness booth, representative, Maisy Thompson, shared, “We had a lot of kids come through who were interested in being nurses, some veteri-

narians and some psychologists and radiologists. So, all in the medical field. I asked all if they would come back home and work, and the majority expressed that may be not, which is unfortunate, but may be they will see the benefits of returning home and giving back to their country... They were asking many questions, and we were able to assist and explain to them about the medical field. We were happy to be here, to share with the students about what we do.”

Insurance, entrepreneur Mr. Albert Archer thought the event was an important opportunity to guide the younger generation, and commented, saying, “I was really grateful to have been asked to participate in this, and I could have been spending my time doing other important things, but I wanted to come out and spend some time with the young men and women, to try and give them some direction in lifeparticularly the young men. Many of them are misguided, so I really wanted to come out and give them advice, more than anything else.”

Aliv/Cable Bahamas was also on campus with an all male team, but emphasized to students that opportunities abounded for both young men and women. Deon Cox, Outside Plant Supervisor for Cable Bahamas in Eleuthera, stated, “The Careers day went well. The students were enthusiastic and curious to learn about what we do, and what careers we offer in Cable Bahamas as a whole. We explained that we

have not just a technical side, but also an administrative side, that deals with accounting, finance, psychology, sociology, engineering, marketing, and sales - so there are many careers in Cable Bahamas. It is also balanced with a focus in the company on inclusion - with growing opportunities for female advancement and leadership within the company, as a result of efforts by top management. We informed students visiting the booth not only about available careers within the company, but also things like the kind of majors you would want to take up in college or other training schools to prepare for the wide variety of careers available within Cable Bahamas. We are glad that it was hosted, and hopefully next year we can return bigger and better with even more information.”

Overall, said organizers Mrs. Bethel and Mrs. Rolle, the Careers Day was an impactful one, with a treasure of information imparted to students at the school.

On Page: Left - Mr. Albert Archer of Island Insurance engages student and offers guidance. Above - Deon Cox of Cable Bahamas answers avid questions by curious students.

Business owner of Island

12th grade students at Central Eleuthera High School celebrate their Careers Day.

wInTer resIdenTs parTY

from Katjiana, designer straw work by Emily Munnings, and massage by Chris Major.”

“With the residents - I know we have lost a few, some who had been with us [here in Eleuthera] for a very long time - they grew older and have passed on. Some have also sold properties, so, there were also a number of new residents,” said Mrs. Ingraham.

The reception at The Preserve saw some seventy plus residents enjoying the event held in their honour. “It was a good crowd, especially knowing that a number of winter residents had already returned to their home countries by mid-March. This is why we normally host it during the first Thursday in March, to try and

catch them all. So, some had already gone back, but it was a great turnout and everyone enjoyed themselves,” said Glenda.

Mrs. Ingraham also acknowledged The Levy Preserve as a true partner in the event, who offered the beautiful venue free of charge, and she emphasized that the Ministry looked forward to continuing to partner with all of their local stakeholders.

The following day, in Harbour Island, the local Tourism Office hosted their winter residents party on the grounds of the historic Sir George W. K. Roberts Public Library [the second oldest in The Bahamas - originally established in 1853], on Friday, March 17th, 2023. The location grounds,

said Harbour Island Tourism Office Manager, Mrs. Deborah Young-Fox, were really beautiful as a setting for the event, however, the attendance response by foreign residents was muted. The Tourism team on the island, will look at tweaking the reception to encompass all visitors in 2024, they said, as a more inclusive event.

Sixteen (16) New Island Administrators

Officially Sworn In

Cartwright, and Mrs. Bridgette Farquharson-Knowles.

On Friday, March 24th, 2023

sixteen new Island Administrators were officially sworn-in, including three talented individuals from Eleuthera, including; Mr. Kenwood Cartwright of Tarpum Bay; Mrs. Gwendolyn Patram of Rock Sound; and Mrs. Bridgette Farquharson-

Knowles of Palmetto Point.

Mrs. Farquharson-Knowles is currently posted in the district of South Abaco and Moore’s Island. Mr. Cartwright is now serving in the City of Freeport, and Mrs. Patram has taken up duties in Black Point, Exuma.

Pictured Back row (L-R): Lynton Pinder, Frances Hepburn-Symonette, Christopher Roberts, Kenwood Cartwright, Preston Cooper, Minister Clay Sweeting, Evakay Arthur, Sindy Gay, Jandilee Archer, Herman Gilbert, and Ricardo Ferguson. Front row (L-R): Audrey Burrows, Bridgette Farquharson-Knowles, Rochelle Anderson, Beverley Laramore, Gwendolyn Patram, Florence Pratt-Meyer, and Kathy McQueen.

New Official Island Administrators from Eleuthera (L-R): Mrs. Gwendolyn Patram, Mr. Kenwood

Pictured in the photo above are the sixteen new Island Administrators with Administrator Lynton Pinder (from Spanish Wells), who is currently serving with the Department of Local Government in New Providence, and Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs, Clay Sweeting.

Artisan Mrs. Emily Munnings (left) poses with a warm-smiled winter resident.