The Eleutheran Newspaper July/August 2023 Issue

AA to Launch New Flight to Eleuthera

American Airlines announced in July its plans to launch a new flight route between Miami (MIA) and Governor’s Harbour (GHB), in Central Eleuthera.

The new service is set to officially begin on February 3rd, 2024, and will operate twice weekly on Embraer E175 aircraft to Eleuthera’s centrally located airport, with flights on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

American Airlines will become the only U.S. carrier flying nonstop from (MIA) to Governor’s Harbour (GHB) - a significant positive for resort destinations, car rental operations, and a slew of other visitor services throughout Central and South Eleuthera, whose clientele will now

have the option of flying directly from the U.S. into a much closer airport.

This new route complements the airline’s winter schedule for the Bahamas that will include up to 14 daily departures to six destinations, one of which is the existing American Airlines route between Miami and North Eleuthera (ELH).

“With a more than 30 year-history at Miami International Airport, American is proud to serve as the hometown airline, providing our customers with an unparalleled network that includes unique destinations like Governor’s Harbour, Bahamas...,” said Juan Carlos Liscano, American’s Vice President of MIA Hub Operations.

Operational Frustrations Peak at NE Airport, Aviation Director Leads Eleuthera Airports Inspection

The Bahamas. To be number two and to get treated like this, it’s a real disgrace.”

In reference to the terminal building, aside from its overall poor condition, the airport employee drew attention to the daily congestion.

A high-level delegation of key Aviation and Tourism Stakeholders participated in a firsthand assessment of the three main airports across Eleuthera, at the end of July.

This move, according to Director of Aviation, Dr. Kenneth Romer, “Is an ongoing exercise to get empowered leadership stakeholders into the fields to make assessments of deficiencies and implement solutions based on an immediate, medium and long term improvement strategy. It’s past time for less talk

and more action. Period”.

A senior staff member, with more than two decades of experience working at the North Eleuthera airport, voiced a list of concerns about the challenges and frustrations that in their opinion are being experienced by both passengers, and employees at the now second busiest airport in The Bahamas, saying, “It’s really a disgrace. I think more emphasis needs to be put into the airport, for the amount of money it is collecting. We were just announced as number two in

“It’s too small. When you walk in, it’s straight to the ticket counter and that’s it - it’s clustered. Many local travelers this summer are also frustrated with standing in the same long lines as arriving tourists as they return on international flights. There should be an expedited line for citizens arriving home - but it’s too small... No one should be standing in the sun or rain in this day and time, especially after spending so

much to come here. The little building, and the area, so congested, and the condition that it is in is just unacceptable... It has been like this for over 20 years... Successive governments have been talking about upgrading this airport, but I think the level of frustration here has really reached a peak - and people here are not accepting it anymore, and something needs to be done. There are more, not less people coming here. It’s growing out of order.”

The numbers quoted by the Department of Aviation and Ministry of Tourism about arrivals at the airport were under-reported, they asserted, saying, “Arrival statistics P36

Passenger arrivals area at the North Eleuthera Airport.

Eleuthera to Host Agro-Industrial Festival

“The Eleuthera Agro-industrial Festival is set to be a multifaceted two-day event with the main attractions highlighting the agricultural, industrial, and cultural industries,” said Pamela Deveaux, Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation’s (BAIC) Manager of the Orange Economy Development Department.

With the theme, ‘Farm, Fresh, Fun’ the festival is planned for November 17th to 18th, 2023 at the Bayfront Park in Governor’s Harbour. “This event is designed to showcase product offerings from local farmers, exhibit the creativity of local artists/artisans and provide information on technological advancements within the agricultural and industrial industry,” added Manager Deveaux.

BAIC organizers are reaching out to potential vendors in Eleuthera, including farmers, fishermen, artisans (handicraft, visual arts, fashion, furniture, beauty and others), food and bever-

age, food processors, value added product producers, and entertainers (band, singer, musician, artist, host etc.).

Interested artists/artisans/farmers can register via the link (https://forms. gle/1F5K4h8aZWGHc4f26). Deadline for registration is Thursday, August 31st, 2023. The cost to vendors is $60.00 inclusive one (1) tent (10’ x 10’), one (1) table (6ft.), and two (2) chairs. Payment, says Deveaux, can be made at any BAIC sub-office. The festival is open only to vendors in Eleuthera.

For further information the public can contact Mrs. Viola Mackey, BAIC at telephone number: (242) 396-3725.

Discovering the Power of Creativity in Story Writing: “Go To the Head of the Class”

Teri M. Bethel, a Bahamian author, publisher, ghostwriter, and literacy advocate, unveils her latest literary gem, “Go To the Head of the Class: Story Writing Tips and Prompts for Young Writers.” With a portfolio of 36 books spanning various genres, Mrs. Bethel’s newest offering is more than just a handbook for young writers; it is a necessary tool on their journey to improved literacy.

Now, more than ever before, as many children are falling away from reading and writing, Mrs. Bethel hopes this book, rampant with storylines and settings throughout the islands of the Bahamas, will encourage literacy and provide a platform for developing their writing. This compelling book imparts essential writing skills and embraces exciting viewpoints for young readers to motivate them to become avid writers in their own right. “Place-based education makes it times more exciting for children to want to learn,” Mrs. Bethel stated. “That’s why parents and teachers should ensure appropriate Bahamian books are available for our students to read at home and in the classroom.”

A recent review from a delighted parent, C. Aitken, speaks volumes about the impact

by Teri M. Bethel

of “Go To the Head of The Class” on young aspiring writers:

“Go to The Head of The Class is the answer I have been looking for to help my young teen jumpstart her writing. Although I myself am a writer, I had no idea how to translate what is intuitive to me into practical how-to for her. This handbook is that perfect tool.

“It lays a very good foundation to provide a starting point, then introduces the building blocks of good writing. The author provides content for creativity, introduces context for out-of-the-box thinking, supplies a toolbox full of alternatives to the usual defaults in descriptive words and phrases, and provides a solid framework for engaging prose.

“Although it is comprehensive in its content, this book is totally unintimidating. I can actually see anyone from elementary school to high school benefiting from it. This is the first step toward our maiden voyage in writing, and I am excited to see where the journey takes us.”

Among its many treasures, this book includes:

Guidance on using verbs, adverbs, adjectives, nouns, pronouns, similes,

metaphors, antonyms, and homonyms, as well as homophones, explaining their usage and how to incorporate them effectively. A fun fill-in-the-blank storytelling primer, providing hands-on practice before crafting full-fledged stories. Vocabulary words to enrich and add depth to their writing, empowering young writers with language to craft amazing stories. Exciting, character-building writing prompts in a Bahamian setting that inspires imaginative think-

Harbour Island Sailing Club Hosts Annual Sailing Summer Camps

ing. It also helps with developing exciting characters and scenes to bring stories to life on the page and much more.

Mrs. Bethel says she hopes parents and educators will find the book useful in giving students the confidence to explore the vast opportunities reading and writing can bring students.

“Go To the Head of the Class” is available in Eleuthera at Office General and on Amazon.com.

The Harbour Island Sailing Club, hosted their 18th Annual Optimist Summer Sailing Camp in late July. The two-week camp saw children from Harbour Island, Gregory Town, Lower Bogue, Nassau, as well as Atlanta, Georgia take part in the fun on the waters surrounding Harbour Island, said Mr. Melvin Higgins, a key leader in the Sailing Club program

on Harbour Island for many years. The summer sailing camp, he explained, is designed to teach the art of sailing and provide mentorship to the sailors in the program. “We welcome boys and girls starting from 7 years of age to grown ups,” added Mr. Higgins. The Club also

Melisha Higgins (3rd from left) standing with DPM Cooper (center) and competing sailors at the Bahamas Games in July, where she secured a silver medal finish.

No one should yet be pouring champagne to celebrate the announcement by the U.S. government that Kenya has agreed to lead a multinational police force to help subdue gangs and improve security in Haiti. This announcement is rightly far from a done deal.

The U.S. exerted a great deal of diplomatic effort in try-

Kenyan intervention in Haiti? More work needed

ing to persuade many countries to lead a multinational force into Haiti – a principal request of Haiti’s unelected Prime Minister, Dr. Ariel Henry. Among the countries that declined was Canada, which opted to provide direct support to Haitian forces.

Many nations are cautious about leading or even participating in such a force in Haiti, not least because they recognize that, within Haiti, while the people want an end to the kidnappings, violence, rapes, and other atrocities associated with the rise of gangs, a significant number are concerned about further foreign intervention in their country.

These nations also know that the underlying reasons for Haiti’s condition are the economic actions by France which crippled the country’s economic prospects for over a century; a U.S. invasion and its economic consequences; the convenient maintaining by foreign governments of avaricious Haitian leaders; and the general impoverishment of the country.

Haitian civil society groups have widely opposed the deployment of any foreign force, referencing bitter experiences with previous intervention and fears that intervening forces would be propping-up the present unelected regime which they regard as partially responsible for the country’s crises.

Further, all governments are keenly aware that a multinational force in Haiti’s present circumstances would not be a traditional United Nations (U.N.) peacekeeping force. What Dr. Henry has requested is a force that will help the Haitian police confront and conquer the more than 60 gangs that now dominate the safety and security space in Haiti, leading to potential bloodshed.

For its part, the Kenyan government has said that it is ready to deploy 1,000 po-

lice officers to help train and assist Haiti’s police to “restore normalcy in the country and protect strategic installations”. The form of assistance was not clarified, and the government also made it clear that its “proposed deployment will crystallize” once it gets a mandate from the U.N. Security Council “and other Kenyan constitutional processes are undertaken”.

The Kenyan need for a U.N. Security mandate explains why the U.S., which is the Chair of the Security Council for the month of August, has announced that it will propose a U.N. Security Council resolution authorizing Kenya to lead a multinational police into Haiti. Getting a Security Council mandate will not be easy. Already the U.S. has been unable to obtain endorsement of the work plan for its Chairmanship because of Russia’s objections primarily due to the inclusion of Ukraine.

Interestingly, while U.N. Secretary-General, António Guterres, has welcomed Kenya’s announcement, he has described it as “a non-U.N. multinational operation in Haiti”. Where such a development places Kenya’s offer is left to be seen, particularly as the government has publicly stated that it wants “a mandate from the U.N. Security Council”.

What is troubling about this development is that it is not

awaiting the outcome of several initiatives seeking “a Haitian led solution”. Among these initiatives is the CARICOM Eminent Persons Group of three former Caribbean Prime Ministers, working to bridge division among stakeholders in Haiti and to arrive at an agreed plan to take the country forward. Their work is not concluded, nor have they pronounced on whether their mission has any chance of success.

Another initiative was the U.N. Security Council’s unanimous Resolution on July 14, 2023, asking the Secretary General to produce options to help combat Haiti’s armed gangs. The time for the submission of the Secretary General’s report has not yet elapsed.

The U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., Linda Thomas-Greenfield, disclosed that the U.S. will be seeking Security Council endorsement for Kenya to lead a multinational force into Haiti, saying, “This is not a traditional peacekeeping force, this is not a traditional security situation [...] We have gangs that have overtaken the country, ... that are terrorizing civilians every single day.” She admitted that the situation is “unusual”.

What is being proposed is not a traditional U.N. peacekeeping force, but a military exercise designed to eliminate heavily armed gangs,

By Sir Ronald Sanders

The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States. The views expressed are entirely his own.

Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com

By Mike Lightbourn

Questions or comments?

Contact me at info@cbbahamas.com

For Sleeps Sake!

Sleep is critical to good health, but a lot of adults don’t get the recommended eight hours. A good night’s sleep goes beyond recharging body and mind. It promotes health and even helps ward off disease, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. Our brains can’t function properly without enough sleep.

You may be surprised to know that some of the simple steps used to stage a home for sale are conducive to healthy sleeping patterns.

Colour is Everything:

Your bedroom should be a tranquil oasis and this starts with the right colour of paint. Avoid drab, depressing colours and steer clear of purple, red and orange or anything bright. They are stimulating and distracting. Stick with cool and calming colours, such as soft blues, greens and creams.

Lighting:

Light can make or break the atmosphere of a room. A bright overheard light has its

uses, but it won’t induce drowsiness. Include a reading light and accent lighting in the bedroom to create cozy ambience. Natural light is a big selling feature because it makes rooms sunny and cheerful. Night light is a different story because it keeps a lot of people awake. If you live in a well-lit area, choose the right curtains or shades to finish your windows and block unwanted night light. Whether you use a local seamstress or shop online, there are lots of window treatment options to fit any environment.

Declutter:

There’s a reason professional home stagers are so big on decluttering. Decluttering opens space and means less distraction. A cluttered room interferes with the natural flow and rhythm of space and order. A decluttered room feels –and often is – cleaner, which has a soothing effect on our brains. Avoid oversized furniture that clutters the room.

so much time on it, why wouldn’t you splurge on a good, orthopedic mattress?

Ditto with pillows. Don’t underestimate the power of plumped pillows, cushions and covers to soothe and entice.

According to professional home stagers, the perfect sleep setup starts with a well-made bed and all the right accessories.

Workspace:

Avoid workspace in the bedroom, if possible. It can remind you of work and incomplete tasks and be a source of stress. Your sleep space is sacred and should not be associated with work. It will also add clutter to the average bedroom.

Glass Resistant Windows:

Glass impact resistant windows can serve a dual purpose, offering both hurricane protection and minimising common outside noise. Hurricane impact windows have huge buyer appeal as a safety feature. (The background hum from a white noise machine can also be used to lull you to sleep and Amazon has apps that provide soothing background sounds, like rainfall or gentle wave action). Page.

The Bed: Invest in a good mattress. Having the right bed is important for a good night’s sleep. An uncomfortable bed can deprive you of essential, rejuvenating sleep. Don’t skimp on the mattress. You spend

Commentary: Haiti

which were created by elements of the political and business classes of Haiti, and which are now out of their control.

While no one would disagree with the U.S. that Haiti desperately needs stabilization, not everyone will be convinced that a foreign multinational force, especially one that is not fully endorsed by the U.N. Security Council, is the answer.

Equally concerning is that any intervention in Haiti should be at the expressed wish of the majority of stakeholders in Haiti, including political parties, civil rights groups, the business community, and the influential Haitian diaspora.

Foreign intervention in Haiti is unlikely to secure the desired broad consensus among Haitians, unless

the terms are agreed by them, including oversight, agreement on its purpose, and the expiry of its stay.

Moreover, the essential question of who is in charge of the country while it endures these events still remains. Will it continue to be an unelected group, or a transitional government comprised of representatives of political parties, civil society, the business community, and qualified Haitians in the diaspora?

Achieving a Haitian consensus on a multinational force and the terms and objectives of its operations should be the first effort on which energies should be exerted.

Mike Lightbourn is president of Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty.

Teri M. Bethel

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

As the summer months pass by, it’s time to start preparing for the upcoming school year. We’ve celebrated our country’s 50th Independence, our Jubilee—what an accomplishment! Have you ever wondered if we would have gotten this far if our founding fathers could not read, write or communicate effectively? How could they have communicated with the British monarchy if they could not speak standard English? Their negotiations may have tripled in time and frustration if the team went with their pants dropped below the waist, showing their undies, grunting rather than speaking, and finishing every sentence with “…yeah bey, Y’see what we meanin’?” or, “We’ne playin’ dred!”

Would we have gotten what we wanted? Unless we encourage our students to shape up and not follow the decline of literacy rebels, we will have slim pickings for literate leaders and business owners in the land. Hence, a rise in frustration for those speaking and not being understood and those listening and not understanding. The competition on the world scene today requires literacy to make it to the fore, which is why we ought to take the time to celebrate our educators and work with them to produce exemplary students.

Given the ability to provide our children with the tools to excel, as a community, should we be happy leaving them at the most basic level when they can be equipped to someday function on the world stage? Would we like them to excel beyond where we are and what we have achieved? Or are we content with them getting a leaving cer-

Preparing for the Upcoming School Year: Nurturing Healthy Lifestyles and Academic Success

tificate without the ability to properly care for themselves by not being qualified for a suitable job?

Leaving A Mark

Think about it. How many great men and women have left their mark on our country who hailed from the island of Eleuthera? Would we have had the National Anthem from Mr. Timothy Gibson? Would one of our founding fathers, the former representative for the island of Eleuthera for 25 consecutive years, Rev. Philip Bethel, be considered worthy of serving as a cabinet minister? Would we have had Dr. Paul Albury, our esteemed historian from Harbour Island? What about our first premier, the Hon. Sir Roland Symonette, who hailed from the quaint settlement of Current in the north? Could he have led this nation not knowing how to read, write or communicate properly? Would the son of the southern soil Apostle Leon Wallace grow from meager means to excelling in his education and leading several churches nationally and internationally? Of course, there were other trailblazers from Eleuthera, but you get the message—a sound education is essential now and even more so in the future if we are to go beyond surviving to become the best little island in The Bahamas.

What was done for us 50 years ago must be sustained, and to do so, we must ensure our children are prepared to take the wheel. So how do we do that? We must prepare them for their future. This goes beyond gathering textbooks and uniforms. However, as an author and literacy advocate, I firmly believe parents should equip their children with the tools to succeed in school. Sadly, some people put traveling, gadgets, new hair, and nails before books and uniforms, which teaches our children that their education is not a priority. Parents must focus on creating healthy lifestyles for their children and supporting their academic growth. Though to many, school uniforms may be a financial burden; it is essential to consider the effect of students being uncomfortable in clothing that may be too small, too big, dirty, or in poor condition. Wearing such garments affects their self-esteem and can lead

to them being bullied or acting out as a defense mechanism.

Parents whose children have outgrown their uniforms or graduated can donate their children’s gently used clean clothing to the school for free use for those whose parents may be financially bound. People in the community, whether individuals or social groups, may wish to consider raising funds or providing compulsory uniforms for financially challenged students. By establishing a foundation of care, safety, and academic readiness, parents can empower children to thrive in the new school year.

Academic Preparation

Aspects of preparation can cover academic practice, safety measures, and personal grooming to foster a positive and successful school experience. One of the keys to a successful school year is ensuring that children are academically prepared. This can be achieved through targeted practice and reinforcement in subjects where they face difficulties. Encourage your child to read wholesome books regularly. If buying them is not possible, then allowing them to spend time reading in their local library is a possible alternative. If their challenge in the previous semester was math, have them pull out their old materials to practice math problems and review any other areas needing improvement.

Setting aside dedicated time daily for focused study can help boost their confidence and competence for the new school year. Some parents and teachers sometimes give up on a student they feel may be slow or an academic failure. I’m a testimony of how one starts does not necessarily mean you will fail. For most of my schooling, I was considered backward, someone who would be a dismal failure in her academics. These concerns were vocalized to me, and rather than counter them; I thought my elders knew more than I did, so I accepted my fate without trying to improve. It wasn’t until one educator told me he had high hopes for me that my mangled self-esteem was restored. His few words were like a key that unlocked the door to my

prison cell, giving me the right to be released from a dungeon of pain. My grades improved, taking me from the miseries of a D grade to the honor roll and then taking me from a fear of reading to writing books—now 36, with several unfinished manuscripts in the queue. Parents and teachers must encourage the children; they are tomorrow’s leaders who need our help in preparing them today.

Emotional Well-being and Safety

Children’s emotional and physical well-being and safety must become a priority. Traumatic experiences can have long-lasting effects on a child’s behavior, academic performance, and overall development. Creating an environment where children feel safe, loved, and supported is essential. Encourage open communication, actively listen to their concerns, and be vigilant about signs of distress. Too many children (boys and girls) are being physically, emotionally, and sexually violated and are living in fear. Casually overlooking this problem that may be rampant in a family will not make the problem go away. This cruel treatment must end, and the children must be rescued from their abusers.

If you suspect any form of abuse or mistreatment, take immediate action by contacting the Department of Social Services or the Police. Do not take the situation into your hands. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent potential long-term consequences and provide children with the support they need.

Foster Healthy Habits

Creating a healthy lifestyle for children is paramount to their overall well-being and academic success. Encourage regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep. Physical activity improves concentration and intellectual function, enhances mood, and reduces stress. Parents can ensure their children have the energy and focus necessary for a productive school day by prioritizing nutrition, exercise, and adequate rest.

Personal Hygiene and Grooming

Advice

Don’t wait for the school year to begin to address personal hygiene and grooming. Begin today. Teach children proper hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, brushing teeth, and daily bathing. Emphasize the importance of cleanliness to eliminate embarrassment and potential bullying. Ensure they have well-fitting, clean uniforms and encourage regular washing, even if it means washing a school shirt or blouse every night. My book, Courage to Overcome, Helping Children Overcome Childhood Challenges, addresses these issues in short fictional stories to help children avoid unnecessary disruptions. By establishing good grooming habits, children can feel comfortable and ready to face social or academic challenges.

When preparing children for the upcoming school year, think about your child’s well-being holistically. Consider focusing on correcting the problem rather than simply punishing for the problem when the child has not been trained. Parents play a vital role in fostering healthy lifestyles, emotional well-being, and academic readiness. By focusing on these aspects, children can confidently approach the new school year, allowing them to reach their full potential. Remember, a nurturing environment, open communication, and consistent support are the cornerstones of a successful school experience. Let’s work together to make this school year rewarding for our children.

BAMSI increases production at its POULTRY FACILITY IN NORTH ANDROS

Nassau, Bahamas, August 2nd, 2023: The Bahamas Agriculture & Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) is ramping up efforts to build capacity at its Poultry Research and Training Centre as the latest batch of layer hens were shipped on the MV Prince on Friday to North Andros. Some 600 Rhode Island Red Layer Hens made the seven-hour trip and were promptly transferred to the enriched cage-system at BAMSI’s farm where they are expected to produce almost 500 eggs per day.

Justin Taylor, BAMSI’s Poultry Specialist, explained the importance of the poultry programme, saying Bahamian consumers should know that they are getting fresh eggs from BAMSI. “These eggs are fresh, when you look at the carbon footprint, it takes five to six days to get to a table and in some cases it could go from the chicken to the table in hours, that’s amazing.”

He said that fresher eggs also have an impact when used in recipes. Cakes, pastries and other baked goods that use eggs will be enriched and items like mayonnaise

will collate better when fresh eggs are used. He added that with an increasingly health conscious population, restaurants and bakeries can advertise that they are using locally produced eggs in their recipes and customers will recognize the value in that, he added.

“With these imported brands we don’t know how fresh these eggs are, but BAMSI can reassure the public that their eggs are fresh and are fortified with nutrients such as omega3 which comes from the flaxseed in the feed. Customers can know what they are eating. Our chickens are never fed with antibiotics or hormones, they are given an allnatural feed so for our retail clients, that’s a good marketing perception,” Mr. Taylor said.

Another benefit of having egg production in the Bahamas is the flavour of the eggs, “because the nutrients will be there inside the eggs and will not have been depleted based on the age of the eggs that are produced locally. Eggs that are imported through the US take longer to reach the consumer, and this takes away from the taste because the essential minerals needed for egg composition and integrity have been depleted”.

Appreciate This! CJC Presents Donation to Eleu. Cancer Society

The Hon. Rev. Philip M. Bethel

Honoured as Signatory of 1973 Constitution

In July, the Catch Jerry Chile (CJC) organization presented the Cancer Society of Eleuthera (CSE), with a donation of more than $12,000 at the Society’s Wellness Center location in Palmetto Point, Central Eleuthera. The funds were proceeds from the 2023 Catch Jerry Chile Fun-Run-Walk fundraiser, which is hosted by the organization in James’ Cistern annually during the month of May. Pictured are CJC committee members - Mr. Miska Clarke, and Mrs. Bernadette Colebrook, presenting the cheque to CSE members, Ms. Susan Culmer and Ms. Jacqueline Gibson.

A National Independence Jubilee Worship Service was held Honouring Signatories of the 1973 Constitution, under the Distinguished Patronage of Governor General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Cornelius A. Smith and Lady Smith on Sunday, July 16th, 2023 at Bahamas Faith Ministries (BFM) Myles Munroe Diplomat Center. Four signatories are still alive; two attended in person to receive their awards -- the Hon. Philip Bethel and the Hon. A. Loftus Roker. Pictured on stage at the ceremonies, conveying the honours to the honouree, Rev. Philip Bethel with his wife Mrs. Yvonne Bethel, are Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper, left; BFM Pastor Dave Burrows, second right; and BFM Director and programme chair, Dr. Kendal Major, right. (BIS Photo/ Patrick Hanna)

Pictured: Jacqueline Gibson CSE, Nurse Bernadette Colebrook CJC, Susan Culmer CSE, and Miska Clarke CJC.

OEF and CTI announce new president and CEO, Shaun Ingraham Passes Leadership Baton

The One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) and Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI), two non-profit community development organizations centered on sustainable community and national development, announced a transition in leadership on Tuesday, July 4th, 2023. As of June 30th, 2023, Shaun Ingraham stepped down as President and CEO, passing the baton of leadership to Keyron Smith. The Board of Directors announced the promotion of Keyron Smith from Chief Operating Officer to President and CEO, effective July 1st, 2023.

The released statement further read, “As the founder, Mr. Ingraham played a vital role in establishing OEF’s vision, mission, and organizational infrastructure on Eleuthera, centred around sustainable development in five key areas: education, economic growth, environmental protec-

tion, community health and wellness, and culture and heritage. During his tenure, Ingraham steered OEF and its sister organization, CTI, into becoming two of the country’s most successful non-profit community development organizations.

The scope of work accomplished by Mr. Ingraham over the past eleven years has contributed significantly to the growth and advancement of Eleuthera’s people, communities, and economy. Under his direction, OEF also elevated the role and impact of non-profit entities as the third sector of the economy of The Bahamas in delivering essential services, food security and sustainable agricultural innovation, localized training and capacity building, and humanitarian and disaster relief. The latter was particularly evident in OEF’s mobilization and provisioning of crucial services follow-

ing Hurricane Dorian and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr. Ingraham will continue to serve as a director on the OEF and CTI boards. Looking to the future, he is enthused about the trajectory of both organizations and Keyron’s ability to carry the mission forward. “OEF has enabled me to serve my community and country in meaningful ways far greater than I envisaged starting out. I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished. United in service as team players, board directors, generous donors, partners, supporters, and community members, we have created a model that works and laid a strong foundation for the next generation of changemakers to build upon. I have dedi-

cated much of my life, energy and passion to this cause. OEF is fundamentally strong and well-positioned to increase its development impact in The Bahamas and the region. For sustainability and succession purposes, it is necessary for every organization, including OEF and CTI, to embrace and engage the next generation of competent leaders. I am confident in Keyron’s ability to continue the charge and advance the mission. He and the entire leadership team have my unwavering support.

Reflecting on Ingraham’s career, OEF Chairman Mario Smith notes, “On behalf of the Board of Directors, we wish to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation to Mr. P34

OEF/CTI President and CEO, Mr. Keyron Smith.

Picture This! - Haynes Library Readies For Refurbishments

On August 1st, 2023, Mrs. Althea Fernander Willie and her team at the historic Haynes Library, situated along Governor’s Harbour’s picturesque bay front coastline, could be seen readying for refurbishments, with bookshelves in the front foyer section of the facility, already emptied, ahead of expected works, to begin sometime during the month of August.

The refurbishments, said Mrs. Fernander Willie, anticipated to begin before school reopened for the new 2023-2024 school year, was part of the Ministry of Education’s summer school repairs program of works. Some of the shelving at the facility housing books in the front section were expected to be removed and replaced after treatment in those areas for termites, in addition to some electrical works, as well as a paint job on the outside of the library building.

Most of the books temporarily removed, said Mrs. Fernander Willie, were not packed away, but relocated for now, to other areas of the library, like the children’s section, as well as upstairs on the second floor of The Haynes - and as a result, were still accessible to patrons of the library. The exception, was some of the reading material in the ‘Bahamian section’ which had been secured, until completion of the works.

According to Mrs. Fernander Willie, the library was not expected to close completely for any long period of time, however, she informed that once works began, the opening schedule of the library may be impacted on certain days, depending on the type of work being done. Patrons she advised, should expect some interruptions to normal library access, during the refurbishment works.

Telephone lines have been

impacted for several years at the library because of challenges with electrical wiring, shared Mrs. Fernander Willie. She and her team were hopeful that those communication issues would be alleviated after the works were finished. Patrons, she said, could still stay

in touch by reaching out to the library team by email at hayneslibrary@nlis. bs for more information and any adjustments in opening hours.

The Haynes Library is open from Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm.

Front entrance area at the Haynes Library in Governor’s Harbour, being readied for refurbishments.

Rotary Handover 2023 and New President’s Vision

Cool Springs in Tarpum Bay. President Maxwell Leary formally handed over the reigns of responsibility to incoming president Brian Major, entrusting him with taking forward the vision of the organization into 2024.

Notables during the ‘smart casual’ evening, included the presence of past district governor, Mr. Charles Sealy, who was the special guest speaker, and a number of presentations were made to members for their achievements over the past year. Past president Elburt Ferguson, was recognized with both the ‘Rotarian of the Year’, as well as the ‘Service Above Self’ awards. He was also pinned with the Paul Harris plus two recognition. Past president Sherrin Cooper was pinned with a Paul Harris plus seven recognition and rotarian Cynthia Cartwright was pinned with the Paul Harris plus eight recognition.

ago, after returning to the island in 2018. He said that although he moved to New Providence for school, and later work - he never had the intention of staying away. “After I got a place (duplex) built

in Nassau, I wanted to come back home before I got too old.”

He shared that his father had built the building he currently runs his P27

July 2023, rang in a new club year for the Rotary Club of Eleuthera, which celebrated their Annual Changeover event, hosted at

New president Brian Major, a businessman in Rock Sound, South Eleuthera, who grew up in Eleuthera, but had spent 25 years in Nassau, joined the Rotary Club of Eleuthera two years

Mr. Brian Major, new President of the Rotary Club of Eleuthera.

South Eleuthera Back-To-School Jamboree 2023 a success!

year, we also had pizzas, donated from NorthPoint... So, that was very good. Also, a first - of exceeding more than 200 school bags. This year we had about 270 school bags.”

There was an excellent turnout at the ninth annual ‘BackTo-School Jamboree’ giveaway on Saturday, August 5th, 2023, hosted by South Eleuthera resident, Mrs. Derece Demeritte Thompson, this year - on the grounds of the St. Anne’s Catholic school grounds, in Rock Sound, which was supported by a large group of individuals, civic and business sponsors and donors - as well as volunteers on the day.

“This is year nine, and it has gone fantastic,” said Mrs. Thompson. “We had a lot of firsts. We had our largest sponsor, Disney, which gave $2,500 worth of school supplies. We also had a first with food. There is usually just hamburgers and hotdogs, but this

“All South Eleuthera settlements were again invited,” she said, who along with her team of volunteers, were able to stuff the school bags - with various school supplies. “The school bags were packed based on different age categories and grade levels - lower primary, upper primary, and high school,” Mrs. Thompson explained, and added, “For example, we know that in lower primary, you need jumbo crayons and pencils, which is different from upper primary where you need things like glue, smaller crayons, rulers, scissors, sharpeners, folders, sheets and exercise books. Then the high school bags - and not each one would have the same thing, but included were dictionaries, calculators, geometry sets, pens, pencils, erasers, folders, exercise books, folder sheets and more... We had various generous sponsors throughout the communities, including local businesses, and civic groups like Rotary sponsoring the event - and they were on the ground working with us again today.”

Derece pointed out that the usual barber and braider volunteers did not take part in the event this year, because of the timing - being so early in the month of August. However, she had still been generously supplied with a number of vouchers that children could use before school opened, which were also given away at the Jamboree.

Mrs. Thompson, originally from Freeport, but transplanted in Eleuthera for the past 15 years, and married to Eleutheran, Mr. Neil Thompson

Sr. of Deep Creek, describes herself as a working mom (at Bahamasair), and she has a side baking business, which she says keeps her very busy. After nine years of working with the Jamboree giveaway, she has decided to make the upcoming 2024 event next year, the final one that she spearheads. “Rock Sound is a new location this year. What I have have been doing is ‘walking’ through the different

settlements of South Eleuthera, so we are now in Rock Sound. I was contemplating on whether we would go further, like to Tarpum Bay, but I will end it here. Next year, I hope to go back to deep south, as I skipped over the settlement of Waterford. So, I am going to go to Waterford next year, and that is where we will end it. That is going to be the final one.”

She added, “When I first was inspired to do this through prayer, it was to ‘walk’ through the settlements of South Eleuthera. Now that we’ve done this, I feel that I can now move on, and give it over to others to take up. I just don’t want to leave anyone out. So, I will go back to Waterford next year to finish this vision, and that will be it... If there are others who are willing to carry on the baton, and would even like me to assist, I would have no problem with assisting... So I’m hoping that persons will reach out to me.”

Mrs. Thompson can be reached out to by telephone at 559-7975 or email (derecethompson@gmail.com).

Pictured: Children in line at the Back-to-School Jamboree awaiting their bags and school supplies, on the grounds of St. Anne’s Catholic church in Rock Sound.

Above: Organizer, Derece Thompson (2nd from left) stand with Rotary Club of Eleuthera volunteers, and Miss Teen Galaxy.

Eleutheran Songbird, Brendalee Petty, Honoured Nationally

In recognition of the Bahamas’ 50th Anniversary of Independence, 50 Bahamian gospel recording artists from across the country were chosen to be honoured nationally for their contribution towards the growth and development of music and ministry within The Bahamas over the past fifty years - at a special eventThe 50th Anniversary Gospel Honours, which took place on Sunday evening, July 16th, 2023 at the Myles E. Munroe Diplomat Center in New Providence.

Ms. Brenda Lee Petty, of Governor’s Harbour, Central Eleuthera, was selected as one of the fifty national gospel honourees, and was presented with her special awards during the gala event.

Recounting her delighted shock and surprise as she was contacted and informed about being chosen for the national honour, Ms. Petty shared, “That day as I sat in my home, and the telephone rang. My name was called, and I said,’ Yes, sir!’ After listening, I soon recognised the voice as Minister Kevin Harris. He said, ‘I’m calling on

behalf of the 50th Anniversary Gospel Honors committee and you have been chosen as one of the gospel recording artists in the Bahamas, to be honoured on the 16th of July’.” Brenda Lee, smiling broadly, said she didn’t want to scream in his ear, so she calmly asked him to repeat what he had said as it sank in.

Ms. Petty, who received the prestigious ‘Marlon Music Award’ for her adaptation of the song ‘Grace, Grace’ on her hymn CD called, ‘Eleuthera’ in 2016, said that she believes wholeheartedly that she was called by God as a Psalmist. “When given the mandate, I ran with it. Music is something that is embedded in me. So, I kept on the firing line. This was not always easy, but for God.”

On July 16th, sitting in the Diplomat Center with the other honourees waiting to be called to receive her award, Bren-

dalee recalled, “As I stepped onto that large stage, my thoughts were - ‘Wow, God has brought me here!’ As I walked across to the middle of the stage and stood in front of the microphone, I took a soft breath and whispered a prayer quickly to God, and sang one of the songs on my hymn CD - ‘Grace, Grace’. I held back the tears, and then I realized God has done something great in my life. I took a dip (a bow) in honour of the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. As I shouted during the applause, I realized one of the Words that God had spoken over my life

many years ago was now manifesting - ‘For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end’ - Jer. 29:11 KJV.”

Brenda Lee says the she is excited because of the goodness of God, and how he changed her story. “I give Him all the Glory, Honour, and Praise!”

Above: Ms. Brenda Lee Petty (standing center) shown accepting her awards from former Prime Minister The Most Hon. Hubert Minnis (right), at the 50th Anniversary Gospel Honours on July 16th, 2023.

Preserving the Bahamian Nurse Shark: A Vital Mission for Ocean Health

Natascha Wosnick, Shark Researcher – Cape Eleuthera Institute at The Island School

er strategy to enhance her chances of becoming pregnant.

Among the Bahamas’ remarkable inhabitants, the nurse shark, scientifically known as Ginglymostoma cirratum, holds a special place. These coastal-dwelling sharks play a crucial role in the

ecosystem by maintaining a balanced food chain, contributing to nutrient cycling, shaping benthic habitats, promoting biodiversity, and providing economic incentives for conservation and awareness efforts. “Ginglymostoma” originates from Greek, meaning hinged mouth, while “cirratum” stems from Latin, referring to the shark’s curled ringlets. The nurse shark is easily recognizable by its brownish coloration. These solitary nocturnal creatures spend their nights scouring the ocean floor for food, but they form large sedentary groups during the day.

During the summer months, visitors and residents often report unusual activity among nurse sharks, seen splashing or seemingly struggling in shallow waters. Don’t be alarmed, what you’re likely observing is nurse sharks engaging in their mating rituals.

The Bahamas holds significant importance for nurse shark conservation, as it has been a sanctuary for all sharks since 2011, thus protecting their mating season. This period, occurring from late June to

the end of July, is a fascinating sight to behold. During the beginning of the reproductive period, female nurse sharks are often not ready to mate, so they form pairs or smaller groups to protect themselves from the males. The males can get aggressive and insistent, sometimes harassing lone females. To further protect themselves, the females bury their pectoral fins in the sand, making it difficult for the males to bite them and attempt forced copulation.

As the females become more receptive, you might observe large groups of up to 10 sharks, comprising both males and females, in shallow waters. This phase is critical as it allows couples to form based on preferences that are not fully understood yet. After this period, the pairs separate from the group, and you can witness them engaging in copulation, often lasting several days. This extended mating time increases the chances of successful pregnancies. Following copulation, the couple separates again, and the female may choose another male to mate with, employing yet anoth-

As copulation occurs in the shallows, you might notice the dorsal and caudal fins protruding from the water. The pair often remains still for extended periods, occasionally swimming short distances with their fins still exposed. So, if you see brown-colored fins sticking out of the water in shallow regions, you’re likely witnessing a mating event. To copulate, males bite the pectoral fin of females, then turn them onto their stomachs to proceed with fertilization. This is when you may see or hear splashes in the water, and sometimes the couple may curl up or position themselves on their backs. Female nurse sharks carry their pups for six months and can give birth to up to 29 pups each mating season. The newborns, measuring about 1 foot in length, are a distinctive brown color adorned with scattered black spots. Following the mating season, adult nurse sharks return to deeper waters, while the young ones seek refuge in creeks or patch reefs, increasing their chances of survival and growth.

Preserving the species in the Bahamas is vital for maintaining robust populations and ensuring the health of our oceans as they regulate prey populations, maintain biodiversity, and control the spread of diseases that can affect their prey. Sadly, nurse sharks face global threats, especially from commercial fishing targeting their fins for the Asian market, meat consumption in countries like Brazil, leather for bags and shoes, and jaws as souvenirs. Thus, protecting nurse sharks, particularly during their mating season, is critical to safeguarding the species from extinction worldwide.

If you encounter nurse sharks in very shallow waters, it’s essential to maintain a safe distance, as they might become more aggressive during this time. If possible, take photographs from

During copulation recorded in June 2023 in South Eleuthera, (1) the male utilizes a biting strategy to immobilize the female. (2) Subsequently, he positions her on her stomach, likely to optimize the fertilization process. (3) The male then inserts his copulatory organ into the female. Photo credit: Natascha Wosnick.

A female shark is seen floating belly up, being held by the male using her pectoral fin during a copulation event recorded in Kemps Creek, South Eleuthera, Bahamas. Photo credit: Natascha Wosnick.

new rotary President & Vision

keting Manager at Bahamian Brewery... I’ve managed Bacardi, Patron, Grey Goose - also many brands under Bristol. I got a lot of training and did a lot of traveling, so I learned quite a bit about the business, and it was my calling, I guess.”

Touching on what had drawn him to the Rotary organization, Brian said, “I wanted to give back, but give back in a meaningful way.” A former boss of his, he added, had also been an avid rotarian, sparking his interest when he was in Nassau. “When I came home, I found that they had a whole Rotary group here, so I applied and they accepted me... Two years later, and I am now the president.”

to do something in Rock Sound, because here we have the Ocean Hole, which has been just sitting there for a long time. So, we need fish in there, we need a new walk way around there. We want to replace the swings there. When I was growing up, there were swings, and it was an area to go and hang out on a Sunday evening with your children, and fish the fish. So, I would like to make an effort, so kids after me can enjoy the same atmosphere that I did.”

beverages and liquors store business in on the main highway in Rock Sound. “I have been in the liquor business for 20 years, with my last position being the Sales and Mar-

Speaking about the vision he has for his 2023-2024 term at the Eleuthera Rotary helm, Brian described, “Rotary’s main focus this year is mental health and wellness and the environment, both of which there is a huge push for this year. I am really interested in the environment for South Eleuthera. We have a lot of developments happening all over Eleuthera, and now in the south is where a lot is happening. So, my interest is - I would like

Toward that end, Brian said he had begun to talk with local government and the chamber of commerce, and others, and had already started to get a few donations in. “As president now, I would like to be able to offer Rotary’s support and efforts as part of the vision to get that project up and running.”

According to president Major, revitalization of the Ocean

Hole will be no small project, also commenting on the state of the water itself, explaining that the parrot fish and other species which used to keep the water clean and clear, were now depleted. Reasons for this had been debated he said, from people fishing at the location depleting stocks, to poisonous tree debris and leaves from cleanups affecting the fish over time. However, returning the waters at the renown site to their former clarity, he said, by creating some form of incentive program to replenish fish stocks, was also needed.

One of the other projects he said that would also be a focus during his year, included, rotarians working within the local schools with the children, as mentors - at both the primary and high school levels.

Nurse sharks are seen resting in shallow water with their fins out of the water during the mating season. Photo credit: Alexa Hoffman. a distance and share them with our research team via email at natascha. wosnick@islanschool.org. Old photos are equally valuable as they help us build a database on the species’ mating season, contributing data to inform nurse shark behavior, reproduction and conservation. Make sure you also send us the time (month and year), and location where the photos were taken.

If you are interested in becoming a citizen scientist and joining our initiative to monitor nurse shark mating sites in the Bahamas, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Together, we can collect valuable scientific data, working to protect these magnificent creatures and preserve the beauty of our oceans.

Above (L-R): Outgoing Rotary president Maxwell Leary, handing the gavel of responsibility to Incoming Rotary president Brian Major.

Eleuthera District Golden Jubilee Awards Ceremony Celebrates Honourees From Across the Island

The Eleuthera District, as part of the national celebration of the Golden Jubilee 50th Anniversary of the Bahamas’ Independence, selected Eleutherans from across the length and breadth of the island, including North, Central and South Eleuthera, to recognize as ‘Eleuthera Golden Jubilee Honourees’ for their contributions to the growth and devel-

opment of their communities within a diverse area of disciplines.

The banquet event, where the awards were presented to the honourees in the presence of supportive family members and friends, was hosted at the Worker’s House Ballroom on Saturday afternoon, July 15th, 2023. In attendance, were the honourees and their guests, member of

Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, the Hon. Minister Clay Sweeting, keynote speaker Rev. Canon Sebastian Campbell, island administrators, local government leaders for North, Central and South Eleuthera and other community members from throughout Eleuthera.

Canon Campbell, in his charge to the audience, ahead of the awards segment, took those

Canon Sebastian Campbell

Alvin Johnson

Bishop Daniel Nixon

Hilbert Richards

Elizabeth Bryan Velma Dorsett

Edrin Symonette

Accepting for

Clarice Thompson

Charles Hall

Creswell Gibson

Diallo Ingraham

Philip Clarke

Cladwell Farrington

Mitzi Sweeting

Carl Pinder

Kirkwood Cleare Hilton Johnson

Tyson Morley

Larry Forbes

Willimae

Sweeting

Accepting for Jason Thompson

Warren Knowles

Annis Antrobus

Mavis Knowles

listening on a journey through pre-independence history, recalling some of the key actions taken, and moments experienced on the journey to 1973. He characterized the generation responsible for those changes, as the ‘Moses’ generation, who took on the insurmountable and made it happen. The generation that followed, those living, and enjoying the benefits of those earlier sacrifices today, he dubbed as the ‘Joshua’ generation - and threw out a challenge, that Bahamians should take the concept of ‘independence’ in The Bahamas even further.

The ‘Joshua’ generation, he opined, needed to take up the baton passed to us, and continue to move the country forward - “We have to think, be creators... We must develop our industries... pool our resources and think big... We must forget all that divides us.” He also emphasized the importance of continuing to tackle the issues within our country that tear at the fabric - issues of crime, drugs, teen pregnancy, infighting, pettiness, broken families, poverty, unemployment, and the like. “The Bahamas is all of us and what becomes of her over the years will be a reflection of all her people, not just those whom we elect,” concluded Campbell.

Following Campbell’s charge, the Eleuthera Golden Jubilee Honourees were announced one

by one, and welcomed to the stage to receive their awards. (For honourees not able to be in attendance, their awards were received by a family or community representative or local government leader from their area.)

South Eleuthera Honourees were:

• Pastor Diallo Ingraham - Religion

• Bishop Daniel Nixon - Agriculture

• Edrin Symonette - Agriculture

• Warren Knowles - Community and Social Service

• Julian Carey - Community and Social Service

• Charles Hall - Family Island Development

• Dr. Sidney Smith - Health

• Velma Dorsett - Health

• Kirkland Cleare - Education

• Bonnie Rolle - Public Service

• Mavis Knowles - Law Enforcement

• Alvin Johnson - Art and Culture

• Creswell Gibson - Art and Culture

• Miriam Forbes - Hospitality

• Hilbert Richards Sr. - Hospitality

• Larry Forbes - Sports

• Tyson Morley - Order of Eleuthera Pineapple

• Mitzi Sweeting - Youth Award

Honorary Award:

• Willamae Sweeting - Order of Distinction

• John Butler - Order of Merit

• Kermit Cates - Eldest Male South Eleuthera

• Priscilla Clarke - Eldest Female South Eleuthera

Central Eleuthera Honourees were:

• Annis Antrobus - Order of Eleuthera Pineapple

• Bruno Thompson - Public Service

• Carl Pinder - Royal Bahamas Police Force

• Clarice Thompson - Religion

• Monsignor John Johnson - Religion

• Ret. Commodore Clifford Scavella - Royal Bahamas Defence Force

Accepting

Earmily Munroe Accepting

How we did it!

‘50th Independence night in Eleuthera’

It was 50 years ago on July 10th, 1973, at the historic Clifford Park in New Providence - and like parks on every Bahamian island, including Eleuthera, when the Union Jack flag of the British Empire was lowered and the fledging Aquamarine, Gold, and Black Flag was raised, signifiying the birth of a new independent nation – The Commonwealth of The Bahamas.

Shortly before midnight on Sunday, July 9th, 2023, this moment was re-enacted in communities throughout the country, and in The Eleutheras - ringing in July 10th - the formal marking of The Bahamas’ 50 Years of Independence, under the theme, ‘One Nation, Our Legacy, Our Future’ - followed by explosions of fireworks, a colorful and energetic Junkanoo rushout - then an after-show, including dramatic fire performance displays, and guest performing artist, Nishe L.S.

Independence celebrations in Governor’s Harbour for Central and South Eleuthera on Sunday, July 9th, hosted on the grounds of the Administrative Complex, spanned from early evening until well past midnight, beginning at 6pm with a cultural show, followed by a gospel explosion presentation, and an ecumenical service at 9pm, culminating with the uniformed branches ‘March Pass’, a flag raising ceremony, and the after-show.

Scores of Eleutherans, dressed in their national colours, and waving flags in celebration turned out for the seven-hour Sunday afternoon-into-morning celebrations.

The program featured cultural performances by young local band ‘New Vision’, visiting Cat-Island rake and scrape artists, instrumental renditions, as well as a fashion extravaganza by designer, Empress Verda. Gospel renditions following, included presentations by the melodious and passionate Global Outreach Ministries choir, visiting men’s acapella group ‘Dynamic Features’, the award winning soloist Brendalee Petty, the Jubilee Combined choir and more.

The atmosphere was one of community comradarie, and a coming together of Eleutherans to celebrate and enjoy each other’s company, while taking in the talented performances, messages of

Below: Renisha Brown of South Eleuthera with Minister Clay Sweeting. She was the winner of the national independence poetry competition. On Right: Bahamas Softball Hall of Famer, Edmund Charlie ‘Binks’ Bethel of James’ Cistern on the cowbells.

Below: The Global Outreach Ministries choir raise melodious voices in song on Independence eve.

Above: A combined independence choir sings proudly. On right: Talented and passionate South Eleuthera praise dancers.

unity and strength, and recollections of the path taken to get to 50 years as a nation. Among those in attendance were Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, the Hon. Clay Sweeting, along with his wife, Administrators for Central and South Eleuthera,

MP Sweeting in his address to the celebratory crowd, expressed pride in being a representative for the island during the historic 50th anniversary event, and his pride in being a Bahamian. He shared an excerpt from the preamble to the Bahamas Constitution, which

emphasized a nation that would be dedicated to freedom, self-discipline, industry, loyalty, unity, and an abiding respect for Christian values, and the rule of law. “I think it is our duty as Bahamians, as we celebrate this grand affair that we recognize the

Above: A combined high schools marching band, led the uniformed branches ‘March Pass’.

Above: (Left photo) Shows Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Griffin - as they stood in response to audience members being asked to stand if they had been present at the same location on the eve of Independence in 1973, 50 years ago. (Top Right photo) Reverend Philip Bethel and Mrs. Bethel on stage as Rev. Bethel is recognized as an original signatory of the Bahamas’ Declaration of Independence.

Clockwise from Left: Mistresses of ceremony, Ms. Emily Petty and Ms. Kamesha Carey. Prayers for the country and song renditions for the soul - Pastor Eric Johnson, Bishop Bradley Ferguson, and Reverend Carl Lee Sands. Bishop Clifford Petty gives the benediction. Keynote Speaker, Pastor Christopher Darling of OASIS of Love Ministries delivers a powerful and timely message.

indePendenCe

ideology on which our forefathers and mothers framed our constitution. I think we should all know and understand the reason for the rights that we appreciate today.” Sweeting also highlighted the important reference to ‘family of islands’, emphasizing the close ties that the peoples throughout The Bahamas held, saying, “We all are family.”

A special Golden Jubilee Award was also presented to Reverend Philip M. Bethel, one of only four remaining living signatories (Sir Arthur Foulkes, Sir Orville Turnquest, and Mr. Loftus Roker) of the Bahamas’ Declaration of Independence out of the original group of fifteen. Mr. Bethel, accompanied on stage by his wife, Mrs. Yvonne Bethel, in his remarks, harked back to celebrations in Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, on the same park marking the birth of an independent Bahamas. He paid homage to those in the audience, who were present during the original celebrations fifty years ago, as well as people throughout

The After-show, following the flagraising and fireworks, included - colourful junkanoo, intrepid fire dancers, and performer Nishe L.S.

Above and Below: The Independence celebrations audience sat tight through the entire six-hour event, from early evening, into the early morning hours of July 10th, 2023 - taking in the show of culture, praise and worship, and remembrance.

Dressed in their finest, the uniformed Police officers put on a fine drill display, flag raising and March Pass.

New Courses Available at CTI-HITS This Fall

The Center for Training and Innovation’s Harbour Island Trade School (CTI-HITS) is preparing to launch its fall course lineup this September. Students in North Eleuthera will have new opportunities to advance their careers with professional development certifications in QuickBooks 1, Entrepreneurship, and The Art of Hosting - a workshop series tailored specifically for hotels and restaurants. Courses will be taught on Harbour Island, and student scholarships are available upon acceptance. A free Open House event is planned for Thursday, August 24th at 10 am at the Parish Hall of The Blessed Sacrament Church on Harbour Island to provide the public with more information.

Quickbooks 1 is a beginner-friendly course that will allow participants to develop the necessary skills to navigate installing, setting up, backing up, and upgrading company information in Quickbooks. The Art of Hosting workshop series is being offered to local restaurants and hotels as a “go-to” resource for their staff training needs. It focuses on enhancing the hospitality skills of staff and employees in specialty areas, including dining room services, bar management, front desk management, managerial skills, and customer service. This course will be delivered on-site for participating establishments.

New on the roster is the CTI-HITS Entrepreneurship Course. This capacity-building course is offered exclusively to alumni of the CTI-HITS program. It will provide graduates with the support and entrepreneurial training needed to start a business and capitalize on emerging business trends and opportunities on Eleuthera. Students will hone their business skills and learn the fundamentals of starting and growing a competitive business.

“Educating Eleutherans and providing access to greater professional and economic opportunities through education and technical and vocational training is a strategic priority,” says Yolanda Pawar, Chief Communications Officer at CTI. “Working hand in hand with One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF), CTI and CTI-HITS continue to provide students across Eleuthera with the opportunity to upgrade their skills and learn an in-demand trade. Providing greater education and economic opportunities in areas critical to the sustainable development of Eleuthera and its industries is of paramount importance to both OEF and CTI’s mission.”

Courses are accredited by the National Accreditation and Equivalency Council of the Bahamas (NAECOB). For more information, interested persons can call 1-242-815-3800 or email: (registrar@oneeleuthera.org).

New CeO at OeF aNd CtI

Ingraham for his tireless dedication, selflessness and remarkable contribution over the years. His visionary leadership has shaped OEF and CTI into a respected force for positive change while addressing some of our country’s most urgent challenges. His innovative thinking has challenged the status quo and inspired OEF’s proactive approach to improving lives and communities.”

Keyron’s family roots are grounded in Green Castle and Lower Bogue, Eleuthera. He spent his formative years on the island, developing a special bond and connection that has increased with time. Holding a Masters Degree in Governance and Public Policy from the University of Manchester, UK, and as a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), Keyron has been an integral part of the OEF and CTI leadership team for approximately three years. He has climbed the ranks within the organization from Project and Strategic Planning Manager to Chief Project Officer to Chief Operating Officer. His appointment as President and CEO heralds an exciting new chapter for the organizations.

Commenting on the transition, Chairman Smith says, “The Board of Directors wishes to congratulate Keyron on his new appointment, which was part of a carefully planned succession process. His proven track record of success, strategic acumen, and expertise in development, local governance, and policy writing make him an ideal choice to lead the team through the next phase of expansion and advancement. His deep understanding of OEF’s values, mission, programs, and stakeholders uniquely positions him to drive continued growth and impact for the benefit of our communities.”

The leadership transition coincides with OEF’s fiscal year-end on June 30th, 2023. Moving forward, Keyron is ready to take the helm with a clear vision and strategic methodology backed by a strong executive team.

“It is truly an honor to lead OEF and CTI into its next chapter and to continue the vital work of evolving and expanding our successful community development model. I value and appreciate the extensive groundwork laid by Shaun in building a strong foundation for community development on our island and within the country and sector. I intend to build upon past successes while focusing on increasing our community impact and embracing new opportunities to realize the vision for Eleuthera. Our approach will remain ‘locally rooted and globally minded,’” explains Keyron.

“The world around us is constantly changing, demanding innovation, adaptation, and collaboration to find sustainable solutions for our communities. I am committed to leading OEF in addressing these growing needs and ensuring that our organizations remain progressive and effective. Collaboration and collective action will be key to our success. I look forward to working closely with OEF’s Board of Directors, leadership team, staff, partners, donors, local and international organizations, and community stakeholders. Together, we will bring our strengths and resources to the table to strengthen our local communities and extend our impact to the rest of The Bahamas and the region.”

Participants in the Quickbooks 1 summer class taking in lessons that expanded both their minds and their professional portfolios.

Inland Revenue Announces a VAT Holiday

- Non-recreational software

2. School Supplies

- Pen, pencils, markers and crayons

- Erasers

- Notebooks and Notepads

- Books of all kind (including textbooks)

- Note filler paper

- Plain paper (8.5” x 11” & 8.5” x 14”) & construction paper

- Legal pads

- Binders & folders

- White boards, marking boards & poster boards

- Scissors

- Cellophane tape

- Rulers

- Computer disks

- Glue or paste

- Protractors & compasses

- Staples & staplers used to secure paper

3. Hair Accessories

Calendar Event Markers!

• August 12th - Eleuthera Business Expo - Discover new opportunities for your business. Hosted at the Eleuthera Business Hub at Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce - Rock Sound. Free health screenings and CPR demonstrations by Bahamas Wellness Center. Register now at www.eleutherachamberofcommerce. org. (Contact: Ms. Audrey Tynes, (242) 699-6550 - Rock Sound)

• August 12th - Bahamas Goombay Summer Festival (Governor’s Harbour) - Location: Fish Fry Site.

(Contact: Eleuthera Tourist Office, Mrs. Glenda Ingraham, gjingraham@bahamas. com, (242) 332-2868)

• August 12th - Eleuthera Business Expo - Discover new opportunities for your business. Hosted at the Eleuthera Business Hub at Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce - Rock Sound. Free health screenings and CPR demonstrations by Bahamas Wellness Center. Register now at www.eleutherachamberofcommerce. org.

(Contact: Ms. Audrey Tynes, (242) 6996550 - Rock Sound)

The Department of Inland Revenue recently announced there would be a Back-to-School VAT holiday for those making purchases in preparation for the return to school, which reopens for students on Monday, August 28th for all students throughout The Bahamas.

The VAT holiday period is set for August 19th until September 10th, 2023.

Items to be included as Back to School supplies include:

1. Personal Computers & Related Accessories

- Personal computers and tablets (sale price of $3,000 or less per unit) - personal computers include electronic book readers, laptops, desktops, handhelds, tablets, or tower computers, but excludes cellular telephones, video game consoles, digital media receivers, or devices that are not primarily designed to process data

- Personal computer related accessories (sale price of $1,000 or less per unit)

- Keyboards

- Mouse

- Personal Digital assistants

- Monitors

- Printers

- Other peripheral devices

- Modems

- Calculators

- Routers

- All Hair Accessories with a sale price of $30 or less per unit

- Excluding: hair extensions, frontal, wigs, crowns, veils, hats or caps.

4. Miscellaneous Items

- Printer ink

- Hand sanitizer

- Disinfectant wipes & sprays

- Face masks

5. Clothing, Footwear, Bags & Related Items

- All clothing uniforms or fabric for uniforms & belts (less than $100 per unit)

- Underwear/underclothing (less than $60 per unit)

- Foot wear - shoes, tennis, socks & stocking (less than $200 per unit) excluding skis, swim fins, roller blades, and skates

- Pencil cases, pencil boxes, school bags & beverage holders including gym bags, backpacts, lunch boxes, water bottles & thermos ($150 or less per unit), excluding handbags, briefcases, suitcase, & other garment bags.

• August 12th - Ocean Hole Community Cleanup Day - Ocean Hole Park, Saturday August 12th from 8:00am - until. Bring your gloves, be comfortable and let’s transform the park!

(Contact: Danielle Maynard, (242) 8067145 - Rock Sound)

• August 26th - Bahamas Goombay Summer Festival (Rock Sound) - Location: Rock Sound Homecoming Site.

(Contact: Eleuthera Tourist Office, Mrs. Glenda Ingraham, gjingraham@bahamas. com, (242) 332-2868)

• August 8th-29th - Basketball Summer Camp - Skills, Drills, and Games. Presented by “Friends of First Ministry”. Time: 6:00pm to 8:30pm. Location: Tarpum Bay Park.

• August 26th - Back to School Extravaganza and Family Fun Day - Time: 3:00pm to 8:00pm. Location: Longley Newberry Park, Savannah Sound.

(Contact: Melinda Wallace, (242) 8196592)

Source: Dept. of Inland Revenue, August 1st, 2023.

Ne aIrpOrt FrustratIONs

something can be done very soon.

“If we could at least get an additional taxiway, to get off and on the runway - that would alleviate some of the traffic stress for now - a quick fix, a bandaid, but the reality is that we need a new airport overall - a new terminal, a new runway, a new apron area where the planes offload and deplane - it’s too congested, too small. On some Saturdays here, we can have hundreds of people standing on the ramp at one time - because of multiple international flights arriving in close succession.

“Hats off to the staff, as we have to work hand in hand. We sometimes have differences, because everyone wants to accommodate their passengers and the people they are dealing with, but hats off to the staff for the work they do, despite the conditions that they work with and in. It’s not easy.”

The government of The Bahamas recently announced aggressive plans to design, build, finance, operate and maintain a portfolio of fourteen Family Island airports, structured under a Public Private Partnership scheme, which according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, The Honourable I. Chester Cooper, “Will signal the renaissance of many Family Island Communities over the next three years.”

justification is needed to give Eleuthera the much needed airport infrastructural focus, as it’s overall airlift performance continues to outpace the historic pre-pandemic numbers, and its future growth only remains constrained by capacity.”

Tourism’s mid-year statistics, up to June 2023, recorded Eleuthera’s overall foreign air arrivals at 53,470, 23% higher when compared to 2019, and and 14% higher than 2022 numbers. In addition to domestic carriers, the island of Eleuthera is serviced by Delta, Silver, Aztec and American Airlines, with American Airlines just recently announcing a new service between Miami and Governor’s Harbour, beginning in February 2024. Earlier in May, Silver Airways launched its inaugural service between Orlando and North Eleuthera.

“While we continue to market our destination, grow overall visitor numbers and aggressively expand airlift, we cannot continue to expose domestic and international passengers to inferior airports infrastructure or substandard products and levels of service”, said Romer.

are only accounting for foreign arrivals - what about domestic traffic? Not just the daily commercial flights between Nassau and Eleuthera which bring in scores of both locals and international visitors, but also private aircraft traffic coming in from other islands, bringing stopover tourist traffic for the day or several nights into mainly Harbour Island.”

The arrivals traffic situation in North Eleuthera, explained the employee, leads to another major congestion challenge experienced at the location - because of the inadequacy of the current runway. “There is a traffic challenge here. On some busy days when we are accommodating many multiple flights, with many of them arriving at the same time or close together - we can have a traffic overflow, with planes already on the tarmac - and the ramp is so small - so you have planes on the runway, waiting for one plane to go, then you have traffic oncoming that cannot land - then everything is delayed, and everyone is arguing on the set - and we have only one frequency on the aviation set here. So, with multiple planes on land and in the air, you have everyone arguing - and its just chaotic. I hope

In the meantime, addressing critical, low-hanging operational issues remain an ongoing imperative of the Airport Authority, that has managerial oversight for the 28 government-owned airports across the archipelago, expressed Aviation Director Dr. Romer.

Accompanying Dr. Romer on the visit to Eleuthera was Mr. Niko Davis, The Airport Authority’s Director of Family Island Airports Department.

Some of the immediate implementations over the first two weeks of August, according to the Airport Authority, will be the completion of roof repairs to The Governor’s Harbour Airport, installation of a new air conditioner system and fans in the passengers check-in section of the North Eleuthera International Airport, along with additional seating for international and domestic passengers. Plans are also being finalized for the construction of additional temporary post-screening shelter, along with a modernized North Eleuthera terminal with revised design plans expected to be completed by mid October 2023. Remedial works to the runway is expected to commence over the next 12 months, subject to the resolution of any outstanding land dispute issues.

Human capital issues are also being addressed, with the current training of 26 new security officers, who, upon completion of their training, will be immediately deployed in Eleuthera to assist in the safe and efficient processing and screening of passengers and baggage, said Airport Authority.

According to Director Romer, who also serves as The Deputy Director General of Tourism, “No

Below: Director Romer and Family Islands Manager Davis inspecting the work done on the roof of the domestic terminal at Governor’s Harbour Airport.

View of the North Eleuthera Airport as you approach the passenger arrivals section.

Aviation Director Romer, addressing airport employees.

BaMsI ups eGG prOduCtION

With the shipment between New Providence and Andros, the five-month old birds will take a few days to get acclimatized to their new environment, but are expected to begin producing eggs within two weeks.

“There was a lot of rain on the journey to Andros, which will have affected them. And like humans, animals can experience getting seasick, so we were careful not to give them any food or water while on the journey. Now that they are on land, it will take some days for them to feel comfortable in their surroundings,” Mr. Taylor said.

In a matter of weeks, the full complement of birds should be in Andros, with the facility reaching its maximum capacity of 2,800 birds. Once fully outfitted, the Research Centre is expected to produce an estimated 584,000 eggs annually.

Mr. Taylor said that since its opening in April, egg production has been going well, but the recent heat wave has caused a temporary slowdown in production. “With the climate, the higher heat index…the heat reduces the feed intake by the birds, which results in production losses of five to seven per cent. This is not a normal heat, typically, these birds can produce in heat up to 94 degrees, but the higher temperatures are causing a reduction in production.”

He further explained that the bird house is designed to accommodate a climatic control fan system to provide chickens with adequate ventilation, but to mitigate these extreme temperatures, the poultry team has introduced additional fans to the climate smart system to draw the hot air out of the house.

The layers, which were purchased from a hatchery in Georgia, were just one-day old when they arrived in the Bahamas by plane. Mr. Taylor said the birds were kept in New Providence until they were five months old and were big enough to be safely housed at the Andros facility.

“We have an enriched cage system, and the birds can’t be put in the cage at a young age, they need to be a certain size so they won’t fit through the mesh. In a week or two they will be laying eggs once they get acclimatized to the environment.”

During the opening ceremony of the facility in April, BAMSI Chairman Senator, the Hon. Tyrel Young, said the Institute hoped to achieve a num-

ber of objectives through the Poultry Research and Training Centre, and the Layers Programme. “We will be increasing the number of healthy eggs on the market, introducing Bahamian students to the science of poultry and poultry management, and we will be supporting the education and training of farmers and agri-prenuers who are interested in either creating or growing a successful poultry business.”

Mr. Taylor said now that the layers programme is up and running and egg production is steady, the focus will turn to training and research. “In September we will begin feeding trials using probiotics and enzymes, and working with various forms of calcium alternatives in the diet (which is necessary for shell integrity) to see the

impact on the shells. If the eggshell is thicker, it will allow eggshells to be strong, reducing breakage during handling and transport, minimizing any pathogens from penetrating the eggshell and allowing the composition of the nutrients to stay longer inside the egg. This can result in a longer storage time and support the scientific principles of Haugh Unit, which is a measure of the internal quality of an egg. This will be part of our outreach programme, as we share this information with poultry farmers.”

Another aspect of the research and outreach programme will involve using the chicken manure as fertilizer in crop production, including vegetables, and for banana and coconut tree production. The goal of the research component of BAMSI’s layers programme is to encourage increased entrepreneurial ventures in the agriculture sector, to help existing poultry farmers produce eggs sustainably and to offer varied learning opportunities in agriculture and agro-entrepreneurship to student.

BAMSI’s eggs are already available in Eleuthera at a number of locations, including ‘Island Farm’ in Palmetto Point.

• Dennis Johnson - Bahamas Customs

• Edney Bethel - Softball

• Elizabeth Bryan - Order of Eleuthera Pineapple

• Haldore Russell - Bahamas Immigration

• Hilton Johnson - Hospitality

• Jason Thompson - Community Building

• Miriam Knowles - Public Service

• Philip Clarke - Royal Bahamas Defence Force

• Ricardo Pinder - Community Service

• Winifred Thompson - Educator

Honorary Award:

• Timothy Gibson (Posthumous) - Local Hero

• Cladwell Farrington - Order of Merit

• Kingsbury Sands - Eldest Male Central Eleuthera

• Edith Hannah - Eldest Female Central Eleuthera

Harbour Island Honourees were:

• Renate Roberts-McWilliams - Order of Distinction

• Eloise Dorothy Knowles - Order of Eleuthera Pineapple

• Lashann Higgs - Youth Award

• Harvey Roberts - Public Service

Honorary Award:

• Pastor Melvin Higgins - Local Hero

• Howard Rickey Mackey - Order of Merit

• Barbara Johnson - Eldest Female Harbour Island

• Joseph Saunders - Eldest Male Harbour Island

North Eleuthera Honourees were:

• Jennifer Kelly - Immigration

• Henry Pedican (Posthumous) - Order of Distinction

• Earmily Munroe - Order of Eleuthera Pineapple

• Margaret Albury - Public Service

Honorary Award:

• Clotaire Pierre - Order of Merit

• Mary Neilly - Eldest Female North Eleuthera

• Lyman Cash - Eldest Male North Eleuthera

Spanish Wells Honourees were:

• Grover Pinder - Order of Distinction

• Margaret Pinder - Public Service

• Norma Roberts - Order of Eleuthera Pineapple

Honourary Award:

• Ronald Pinder - Local Hero

• Marion Underwood - Eldest Female Spanish Wells

• William Gay Pinder - Eldest Male Spanish Wells

seLeCt pOLICe repOrts, sHared By tHe rBpF LOCaLLy

Police on the Island of Eleuthera continue to enforce

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 and to reinforce the message of safe driving. During the month of July, Officers conducted twenty five (25) traffic checks which resulted in motorist being cited for approximately two hundred twenty eight (228) traffic offences. In addition, a number of special operations were conducted; as a result, Officers have taken into custody eight (8) persons in separate incidents for possession of dangerous drugs and other Offences.

Drug Arrest

• On Friday 29th July, 2023, at 10:40am Officers came in at the Governors Harbour Police Station with an adult male under arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs and reported that he was arrested and cautioned at 8:45am in the area of the James Cistern Homecoming site after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence.

• On Friday 29th July, 2023, at 10:40am Officers came in at the Governors Harbour Police Station with an adult male under arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs and reported that he was arrested and cautioned at 10:30am, in the area of Dry Hill Road, Palmetto Point, after a clear plastic bag containing suspected marijuana was found. In his possession. He was processed and charged.

• On 23/07/23 at 11:50am Officers came in at the Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male under arrest and reported that he was arrested at 2:25pm same date in the vicinity of Rolle’s Gal Convenience Store Bannerman Town,

after he was found in possession of suspect marijuana The suspect was processed and charged.

• On 23/07/23 at 11:50am

Officers came in at the Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male under arrest . They reported that he was arrested at 2:25pm same date in the vicinity of Rolle’s Gal Convenience Store Bannerman Town, after he was found in possession of suspected marijuana. The suspect was processed and charged.

• On 23/07/23 at 11:50am

Officers came in at the Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male and reported that he was arrested at 11:48am same date in the vicinity of Ed’s bar, Green Castle after he was found in possession of suspected marijuana. He was processed and charged with that offence.

• On Friday, 14th July 2023 sometime around 8:05am, Officers came in at Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male and reported that he was arrested and cautioned at 7:30am, while on Ocean Hole Road, Rock Sound after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspected marijuana . He subsequently processed and charged for that offence.

Shop Breaking Report

On Thursday 20th July, 2023 at about 3:15pm, an adult male came into Harbour Island Police Station and reported that between Wednesday 19th July, 2023 at 4:00pm and Thursday 20th July, 2023 at 8:00am, some unknown person/s broke and entered the Methodist Mission House, located Dunmore Street, and stole some tools including (1) green Makita Cordless drill with black charger, (1) Yellow Jig Saw, (1) yellow Saw Zaw, (1) green Skill saw and other tools. Value unknown at this time. Police action requested.

On Friday 21st July, 2023 at about 7:30pm, Officers while conducting enquiries, located an adult male suspect

RBPF Reports

who was subsequently arrested and cautioned reference to shop breaking and stealing. The suspect then directed officers to a bushy area on Duke Street where officers recovered an assortment of tools and a fan. The suspect was then further cautioned reference to Receiving. The Suspect and exhibits were transported to Harbour Island Police Station for safekeeping and further enquiries. The suspect was subsequently processed and charged with those offences.

Possession of Firearm, Ammunition & Dangerous Drugs.

On Sunday July 9, 2023, at about 7:30 pm, Officers from the Harbour Island Police Station acting on information proceeded to Bay Street, Harbour Island in the area of Government Dock where they observed an adult male suspect exiting the dock on a golf cart heading south on Bay Street. Officers aggressively stopped the suspect’s vehicle and informed him that he was suspected of being in possession of an unlicensed firearm. A search of the suspect revealed a black Taurus .9mm pistol. The suspect was subsequently arrested and transported to the Harbour Island Police Station for further investigation. While at the station, the weapon was further inspected and found to be a Taurus .9mm G2C pistol which contained (9) rounds of .9mm ammunition. Officers then proceeded to the suspect’s residence where a search warrant was executed resulting in the discovery of a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was further cautioned. He was subsequently processed and charged for those offences.

Found Firearm

On Monday 24, July 2023, at about 12:15pm, acting on information received Officers from the Harbour Island Police Station proceeded to Chapel Street, Harbour Island where they conducted an extensive search of a grassy area and discovered under a black water meter cover a black .40 Smith & Wesson Pistol with serial number erased containing a clip with (14) live rounds of .40 ammunition. The weapon was carefully retrieved and transported to the Harbour Island Police Station for processing. The investigation continues.

operations as well as community policing initiatives will continue throughout the Island as Officers seek to heighten police visibility, reduce the fear of crime, reduce the number of serious traffic accidents and discourage criminal behavior in our communities.

Eleuthera ReportsBy NP Police

**POLICE INVESTIGATE ALLEDGED DROWNING **

Police on the island of Eleuthera are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the drowning death of a 45 year old South African, female. The incident reportedly occurred shortly before 11:00 a.m. on Saturday July 8th 2023.

Preliminary reports revealed, that the victim was swimming in waters in the area of the Gully Hole in Deep Creek, when she began to experience difficulties breathing.

Subsequently, the victim was retrieved from waters and transported to the local clinic, where she was examined and pronounced dead by the local doctor. Investigations continue.

**POLICE INVESTIGATE ALLEGED DROWNING**

Police are investigating an alleged drowning incident that has claimed the life of an adult male. Initial reports confirmed that shortly after 8:00 p.m. on Sunday 23rd July 2023, Police were summoned to a local resort situated on Colebrooke Street, Harbor Island, after receiving information that a male was discovered submerged at the bottom of an 8 ft pool. The victim, a Haitian national and an employee of the resort was retrieved from the pool. The local medical technicians administered CPR, but their resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful. At this time, no foul play is suspected. Investigations continue.

** POLICE INVESTIGATE A SUSPECTED HIT & RUN **

* UPDATE ON SUSPECTED HIT & RUN INVESTIGATION**

Police on the island of Eleuthera are aggressively searching for the driver of a black vehicle whom they want to question in connection with the suspected Hit & Run accident, which led to the death of SHARVIN MILLER of Deep Creek, Eleuthera on Saturday 22nd July, 2023. Preliminary reports revealed, that sometime around 3:18 a.m. the victim was discovered lying in the street near the Urban Renewal building in Green Castle, with severe injuries and abrasions to the face. Subsequently, the victim was airlifted to the capital, where he later died. Officers from the Traffic Division in New Providence, accompanied by the officers from the Eleuthera District are aggressively investigating this accident, and are appealing to members of the public, who may have seen a black vehicle (SUV or truck), with possible damages to the front as well as the under carriage, following the reported incident to contact the Rock Sound Police Station at 242-334-2244, Traffic Police Station @ 242-397-8050 or CRIMESTOPPERS @328-TIPS.

Police c o ntact n u mbers

Head Quarters (GH) 332-3500

Governor’s Harbour 332-2111 OR 332-2117

O/C Governor’s Harbour 332-2723

Gov.Harb. Airport Station 332-2323

Deep Creek Station 334-8207

Tarpum Bay Station 334-4033

Rock Sound Station 334-2244

The Eleuthera Division of the Royal Bahamas police Force continues to make its presence felt throughout the community as we seek to execute the Commissioner’s Policing Plan. These

Police are aggressively investigating the circumstances surrounding the country’s latest traffic accident that claimed the life of a 23 year old male resident of Deep Creek, Eleuthera. Preliminary reports revealed, that sometime around 3:18 a.m. on Saturday, July 22nd, the victim was discovered lying in the road in the area of Urban Renewal, Green Castle with severe injuries including abrasions to the face. Subsequently the victim was airlifted to the capital, where he succumbed to his injuries. This matter is under active investigation.

Rock Sound Sgt. Office 334-2212

Rock Sound Airport Stn 334-2052

L. Bogue Station (Airport) 335-1208

Harbour Island Station 333-2111

O/C Harbour Island 333-2327

Spanish Wells Station 333-4030

Gregory Town Station 335-5322

Hatchet Bay Station 335-0086

Local surf camp celebrates 18th year with good waves, turnout

Some 60 participants put the old adage ‘The best surfer is the one having the most fun’ to the test at Bahamas Out Island Adventures’ 18th Annual Surf Camp this summer.

Waves rolled in during all four 6-day sessions courtesy of various low pressure systems in the North Atlantic Ocean, and surfers from the United States, New Providence, Spanish Wells, Harbour Island and Eleuthera took advantage.

Camp director Tom Glucksmann said, “It was brutally hot a lot of days, but at least the ocean offered some respite and the fact various swells pushed in from June right into July meant we even had some bigger days for the kids to progress on.”

Bahamas Out Island Adventures filled three scholarship spots and Nathan Higgs, 15 and Josh Daniels, 14 of Gregory Town attended the overnight week and Sahleya Wright, 12, of Governor’s Harbour attended the final week concluding July 22.

The camp featured not only surfing but a holistic pre-surf program which included juggling, cairn building, soccer, heavy bag and even an inversion table.

Afternoons were spent working on various art projects, cliff jumping, caving, basketball, music and for some sessions a darts tournament and comedy skit.

The surf camp menu treated camp-

ers to a variety of local fruits and homemade creations by co-camp director and camp chef Liz Heiberg.

The overnight week went down to the famous Governor’s Harbour Fish Fry on Friday night where firstyear camper Annie Pustam of New Providence was crowned champion of the dance contest.

The annual June/July camp is on the look out for good scholarship candidates, businesses or individuals to sponsor scholarship candidates as well as instructors/counselors.

Registration opens January 2024 and interested parties should email tom@bahamasadventures.co---

HBr IsLaNd saILING

hosted an eight-day Laser and Sunfish sailing camp earlier in the month for their older sailors. 22 year-old Melisha Higgins, daughter of Mr. Melvin Higgins, and a now experienced sailor, having come up through the sailing program on Harbour Island - took charge of running the camps this year, taking on the role of coaching lead, assisted by Caleb Pedican - also a young veteran of the Harbour Island sailing program.

Melisha, with thirteen years of sailing under her belt, also recently won the silver medal for sailing in the 2023 Bahamas Games. She continues to compete internationally, with her most recent exploits being Laser Class competitions in both Italy and Germany, earlier in 2023. She remains active as a sailor, student and coach.

CaMp

Source: Bahamas Out Island Adventures (BOA)

Foreground: Josh Daniels, left, and Nathan Higgs of Gregory Town share a wave during Week One of BOA’s 18th Annual Surf Camp

Sahleya Wright, left, and Airlie Waserman share a wave during Week Four of BOA’s 18th Annual Surf Camp

Page. 11

Melisha Higgins (standing on left end) and Caleb Pedican (back row right) with summer sailing campers.

Eleuthera who in the fifty years to follow, had contributed to the growth and development of Eleuthera - from Spanish Wells and Harbour Island in the north to Bannerman Town in the south. “Tonight, I want to give thanks to the people of Eleuthera, because when the clarion call came, many of our forefathers at the time was not right, but the majority of the people of The Bahamas, said ‘Independence’. I wave this flag proudly tonight.”

A notable highlight of the ecumenical service was the message bought by the evening’s keynote speaker, Pastor Christopher Darling of OASIS of Love Ministries, who delivered a powerful message - a reminder to the peo-

ple of Eleuthera, and The Bahamas - that the favour of God upon us as a people and as a nation is based on our allegiance to Him and His precepts. “God has kept us... This should be a vow renewal ceremony, if we as a nation would still say, yes, to Him... Obedience is an act, and not a declaration. Let us all come before Him and renew our vows to Him, so that we can really experience jubi-

Above: Verda Gardiner (on right end) stands with her models during the 50th Anniversary Independence celebrations.

Above: Down home Rake and Scrape band, direct from Cat Island, performing during Independence celebrations in Eleuthera.

Below: The ‘Dynamic Features’ acapella group performing soulful renditions during Independence celebrations on the evening of July 9th, 2023.

A fashion show, featuring creations and a unique fabric design by Empress Verda, Gardiner featured during the evening cultural lineup.

lee. The bible says, ‘If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins, and cleanse us from all wickedness.’ If we say we have no sin, we are calling God a liar, and his Word has no place in us.”

Local pastors offered prayers for the youth of the nation, the leaders of the country, and for the nation as a whole, before talented young local singer, Ms. Shawnae Bethel, sang the national anthem - ahead of the uniformed branches march pass presentation and the midnight flag-raising ceremony.

The celebration continued into the early morning hours of July 10th on the Governor’s Harbour bay front, with a junkanoo rushout, fireworks, and live music performances.

Above: Defence Force Ranger Cadets, who took part in the uniformed branches March Pass on the evening of July 9th, 2023, at the bay front in Governor’s Harbour.

Below: A combined high schools marching band provided the music for the March Pass event, during the Independence celebrations.

August Monday BAY FESTS 2023

Coming on the heels of the 50th Anniversary Golden Jubilee Independence celebrations across the island in mid-July, the August Monday holiday weekend in Eleuthera played host to the “Back to the Bay” homecoming in Tarpum Bay, South Eleuthera as well as the “BayFest 2023” in Hatchet Bay, Central Eleuthera from August 2nd to 7th.

In Tarpum Bay on Friday evening, the crowds were entertained by renown Bahamian songstress of melody, Sweet Emily, following a Miss Back-to-theBay pageant, where young Nakiah Carey took the winning title. Local DJ’s backed up live entertainers on Saturday and Sunday, and other cultural segments filled the weekend evenings on the bay.

Crowds in Central Eleuthera also descended on Hatchet Bay during the holiday weekend, with organizers pleased with being able make the event happen for the community. On Sunday evening, Melissa Dean, with the BayFest committee, commented, “This is the final big night of three, which included Friday and Saturday. Tonight, Sunday, we will have Geno D. It has been going great. We thank God that we have been having good weather, after the rain passed earlier this week. We had a big crowd last night, and we look forward to having a good crowd again tonight.”

Hatchet Bay was not short of entertainment. A small gate

Miss Back-to-the-Bay Fest title winner, Nakiah Carey stands with her proud parents following the Friday night pageant event.

Beautiful smiles at Tarpum Bay’s Back to the Bay Festival.

Below and Top Right Next Page: National headliner, Sweet Emily performs for the crowd in Tarpum Bay, during the Emancipation Day holiday weekend.

Local Buzz

charge gave access to a variety of vendors, with food, drinks, games, toys, baked goods and other delicacies - plus local cultural performances of song, dance, and fashion. Live entertainment included heavy hitters on the Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, beginning with the melodious Fanshawn Evans

on Friday, followed by Blaudy - on Saturday evening, and beloved crooner - Geno D on Sunday, all backed up by the Prison Pop band throughout the weekend.

One vendor, Mrs. Dellareese Bethel-Cooper - a school counsellor by profession - to the delight of little ones on

Above: Tarpum Bay being engaged by entertainer, Sweet Emily, as she left the stage to get closer to her audience. Below: It’s a family reunion and homecoming at the Back-to-the-Bay Fest, as they celebrate with performer, Sweet Emily.(center in black).

All smiles in the park at the Hatchet Bay Festival.

Dellareese Bethel-Cooper delighting her young patrons with fun party favours at the Hatchet Bay Festival.

Precious reunions and quality time with family during the August Monday holiday weekend in Hatchet Bay.

Bay Fests 2023

the BayFest park, brought a new brand of fun, with a colourful clown personality, offering kids party favours - like face painting, animal balloons, instant photos for the young and young-at-heart and much more at the Dellies Events and Entertainment stall. She described, “I have had loads of fun, and I love children. So, many children came in, and they were excited to see the clown. It has been a great experience so far. This is my first homecoming, and I know it won’t be my last!”

Sponsorship this year was also strong, said Ms. Dean, following the return of events in 2022 and the recognition of pent up demand, “After last year, when everyone saw how people were anxious to get out of the house after Covid. Many people reached and

On this page and the following page: 69 year veteran seamstress and fashion designer, Mrs. Audrey Johnson was featured on Sunday evening, August 6th, 2023 at the Bay Fest, with a fashion show, highlighting her unique creations of the past, the present and her take on the future of design.

Left: Seamstress and fashion designer, Mrs. Audrey Johnson (center) stands with her daughters who both took part in the show at the conclusion of the fashion extravaganza.

Bay Fest sCeNes 2023

said they wanted to assist. So, we have some new sponsors this year - like Coca Cola, Aliv, McDonalds, John Bull - many that we didn’t have on board last year, we have this year.”

In addition to the evening live entertainment, some of the other exciting activities and highlights at Bay Fest 2023, said Melissa, included the Miss Bay Fest pageant, where young Almitra Rolle-Meeres took the winning title on Saturday evening, as well as daytime 3 on 3 Basketball tournaments on Saturday and Sunday - culminating with a fashion forward show on Sunday evening, featuring past, present and future fashion creations by local seamstress and designer, Audrey Johnson, as a celebration of her 69 years of design experience.

Above: The ‘Ice Man’ Big Show continues to be a hit with children at Bay Fest with treats and candies up for grabs.

Above and Left: Three different segments were presented during the fashion show, by Audrey Johnson, featuring fashions from the past, the present and possibly the future.

On Right: Young Immigration Officers crew, taking in the atmosphere at the Hatchet Bay Festival.

All smile at Bay Fest.

23rd Annual Youth Summer Tennis Camp Hosted in July

Hosted in Palmetto Point at the Knowles Courts facility over a two-week period, the 23rd Annual All Eleuthera Youth Summer Tennis Camp began on Monday, July 17th, and culminated at the end of the following week on July 28th, with a beach party opposite Haynes library and certificate presentations to the young participants.

The daily camp, which ran from 9am until 1pm, had the young tennis enthusiasts taking part in fun games, and activities aimed at fine-tuning their skills on the tennis court, wrapping up with matches and lunch, before parting ways each afternoon.

Professional community members were also invited during several of the lunch periods to share words of wisdom and encouragement with the children, including administrator for Central Eleuthera, Earl Campbell; Jack Percentie with the ‘Say No To Drugs’ program; Kache Knowles, a young adult who grew up in the tennis program; Pastor Jerome Hill with Fountain of Life Ministries; Manager with The Cove Eleuthera, Elizabeth Russell; and coach

Kevin Major Jr., a young Bahamian tennis player, competing in the pro-circuitwho also received tennis instruction from Coach Artie Johnson as a youngster.

Mr. Hartie ‘Artie’ Johnson, tennis coach, national hall of famer, and key organizer of the annual tennis camp event, welcomed a cadre of new coaches this year, as well as returning talent, including Carol Young, Chris Evans, Kevin Major Jr., and Michelle Walker. Coach Johnson, now 77, said that he will move towards semi-retirement, “I can’t do it alone. I’m stepping back a bit, and cutting back on my activities. I will not be doing anymore overseas tournaments. I will not be doing anymore Bahamas Games. I will now just concentrate on the junior tennis development, and that’s it. I will be a consultant, if they need me - they’ve got me. I have a passion for tennis and will keep on doing this until I die.”

Expressing his thanks and appre-

ciation to his loyal volunteers, patient coaches, exuberant participants, and generous sponsors, Mr. Johnson stated, “I would like to thank all of the children, sponsors, coaches (Carol Young, Chris Evans, Michelle Walker and Kevin Major Jr.) and camp manager volunteers (Elva Nixon and Parry Culmer) for making the 23rd Annual All Eleuthera Youth Summer Tennis Camp a success once again. Thank you also to our speakers that came out to encourage the kids, including: Administrator Earl Campbell, Jack Percentie, Cache Knowles, Jerome Hill, Elizabeth Russell and our coach Kevin Major Jr.

“A special thanks go out to our sponsors that helped us get through two weeks of camp with lunch and sports drinks, including - Juan Bacardi, Family Guardian Insurance Company, Tippys Restaurant c/o Elliott Rolle, French Leave Resort, Sunset Inn, Norma’s Gift Shop c/o Tracy Knowles, Burrows One Stop

Four Escape Unscathed From Crash Off Eleuthera

The Royal Bahamas Police Force confirmed reports of an aircraft that crashed off Eleuthera shorelines on Friday, July 21st, 2023, shortly after 7:00 p.m.

According to a report, four people were onboard the Bahamian registered aircraft (C6-PAA) that took off from the Governor’s Harbour airport, in Central Eleuthera, on its way to New Provi-

dence, when the pilot began experiencing issues with the aircraft - having lost power to one of its engines - and began an emergency landing.

As the pilot attempted to return to the airfield, according to reports, the aircraft crashed into waters.

Residents of James Cistern, Eleuthera - who were fishermen according to local accounts - res-

cued the four occupants of the aircraft and assisted them back to land, where everyone appeared well with no injuries reported, said officials.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) identified the aircraft as a Piper PA-23.

Shop c/o Susan Charlow, The Cove Resort, Raymond Pinder, Chances Games, Denise Johnson, Sarah Brie, Mr Robert D’Albenas, and the Ministry of Sports.”

Above: Coach Artie Johnson (far left) with tennis campers, coaches, volunteers, and guest speaker on the day, administrator Earl Campbell (2nd from left).

Above: Coach Carol Young instructing young tennis campers, during the Annual Youth Summer Tennis Camp.