The Eleutheran Newspaper April/May 2024 Issue

OEF’s 4th Annual Learn to Swim Program Aims to Equip Eleutherans with Vital Water Safety Skills

ELEUTHERA, BAHAMAS – The One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) and The Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) announced the launch of the 4th Annual Learn to Swim Program, a free community initiative aimed at promoting water safety and swimming skills. OEF is now enrolling students for this year’s program, which is open to community members aged 5-65. Scheduled to kick off on June 24th and run until July 18th, it is anticipated to be both an educational experience and a splashing success. OEF is also actively seeking volunteers and swim instructors interested in lending their time and expertise to this year’s program.

Led by experienced instructors, the program focuses on teaching essential swimming and water safety skills. Participants start as

beginners and can quickly become confident swimmers, mastering skills like treading water, floating, controlled breathing, and swimming in deep water. The program has a special focus on safety practices to prevent drowning, which is a big concern globally and particularly relevant in the Bahamas, surrounded by water and regularly impacted by hurricanes and sea surges. With programs like Learn to Swim, OEF aims to give our community life-saving skills and make a difference, helping avoid unnecessary life loss and drowning, particularly among young swimmers.

An integral component of the program will be the student participation in the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ (WLSL) for the third consecutive year. This global event, aimed at raising awareness

about drowning prevention, aligns with OEF’s commitment to promoting water safety education and reducing drowning incidents through proactive education and training initiatives. This annual event raises awareness worldwide surrounding drowning and drowning prevention.

Yolanda Pawar, Chief Communications Officer at OEF, acknowledges the importance of water safety education, stating, “Too many lives are cut short by the silent tragedy of drowning. By making water survival skills and drowning prevention education widely available, we can empower individuals within our community with the essential tools and knowledge they need to stay safe in and around the water.”

Each year OEF is grateful for the support and help received by local volunteers like Alison Dean, head coach of the Learn to Swim program. This year, OEF is looking to grow the team and invites passionate volunteers and skilled swim instructors to lend their time and expertise to this vital cause. Our loyal group of coaches will be in attendance and supported by US-based volunteers. OEF is excited to continue the Learn to Swim initiative this year and discussions are underway, exploring opportunities and partnerships to be able to expand the program beyond the summer months.

OEF’s Learn-to-Swim program is just one of the ways we’re utilizing our campus to meet a critical need and strengthen our community,” remarks Keyron Smith, CEO of OEF, “The majority

of the population lacks swimming proficiency and awareness of water safety protocols. Through initiatives like the Learn to Swim Program, we are working to address this disparity and empower our community members with life-saving skills.”

Members of the public interested in joining the program as a swim instructor or volunteer can call Bria Johnson at 242-470-9199. To find out how you can support this program or donate resources, email: info@oneeleuthera.org.

Students are watched and guided by professionals to ensure safety pool side.

2024 Business Outlook doubles up in Briland and Rock Sound

Bringing together stakeholders in the island’s biz sector

Indicative of the growth in economic activity during the past 12 months on Eleuthera, the Eleuthera Business Outlook (EBO), hosted by the TCL Group, also took an expanded approach this year, extending the annual event to two days, with two locations. The 2024 EBO, hosted on Thursday, April 18th at the Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce Business Hub in Rock sound, and on Friday, April 19th at Valentines Resort and Marina in Harbour Island, sought to comprehensively cover both mainland Eleuthera, as well as Harbour Island and Spanish Wells markets, in its insightful set of presentations and discussion panels over the course of the two days.

Keynote speaker on Thursday morning in Rock Sound, was Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, and Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs, the Hon. Clay Sweeting, who spoke about some

of the most recent developments with a number of the ongoing government initiatives on Eleuthera - including the affordable housing building moving forward at Ocean Hole subdivision in Rock Sound, the progress on the health facility to be built in Palmetto Point, the status of preparation for the major asphalt roadworks on the island, the imminent opening of BTVI’s first physical extension of their campus on a Family Island (in Green Castle), the ongoing work at the newest national park at Sweeting’s Pond, the works ongoing at the Governor’s Harbour airport, and pending works for North Eleuthera.

He was followed by an infrastructure panel discussion, which had as guests, company leaders geared at helping businesses in Eleuthera to unleash their full potential, that offered essential technical, communication, infrastructure and education services to residents and businesses on the island. Panelists included, Tracey Boucher, Vice President (VP) of Engineering and Technology at Cable Bahamas; Gregory Stubbs, Asst. General Manager (GM) for Family Island Operations; Kevin Basden, Acting VP of BTVI; Maxwell Daniels, Director of Family Islands at BPL; and Melanie Roach, GM of Bahamas Striping Group of Companies.

Members of the audience were able to direct questions, concerns and comments, directly to the panelists, who listened and responded. Acting VP Basden of BTVI spoke about the actions being taken by the organization to have a physical extension of its campus on Eleuthera, and announced that the awaited facility in Green

Castle was opening that very afternoon. He emphasized the impact this would now have for the business community in particular in addressing the current issue of a lack of enough skilled tradesmen and employees in a number of service areas.

Boucher of Cable Bahamas, in response to questions about connectivity, explained increasingly frequent service outages as being related to power outages damaging equipment, as well as more frequent accidents affecting fiber cables along the length of the island. She shared that the company is currently exploring the feasibility of investments in trenching, and grounding these cables, to mitigate the frequency of interruptions, caused by accidents and the like (At a cost of about $3.5 million, covering a distance from Tarpum Bay to the North Eleuthera airport). She also spoke about adding resiliency to the cable services in Eleuthera by adding additional subsea cabling infrastructure between either Eleuthera and New Providence (at a cost of $3 million), or Eleuthera and Exuma - where the company has subsea infrastructure on Norman’s Cay (at a cost of $2.5 million). This decision, said Boucher, would depend on the environmental approvals they receive.

Tackling a question about the growing frequency of power outages on Eleuthera, Director Daniels of BPL explained that there were two main causes - an issue with generation, or an issue with transmission/distribution. He stated that the engines servicing the island need frequent maintenance, but that they were also working on installing additional generation at both the Hatch-

et Bay and Rock Sound plants, to improve reliability, especially over the coming summer months. From the transmission/distribution standpoint, he spoke about BPL’s ongoing work to improve transmission networks between Hatchet Bay and Three Island Dock - with much of the larger poles already replanted. He also spoke of plans to have Harbour Island fed from the Hatchet Bay plant, via subsea cabling.

GM Roach with Bahamas Striping, outlined the details of the upcoming asphalt road works, to begin in South Eleuthera, and work its way as far as Hatchet Bay in the first phase, which she confirmed would include all of the settlement roads in between as well, with 167 miles of as-

BTVI Celebrates Official Opening of its First Family Island Campus in Green Castle

The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), celebrated the official opening of its newest campus in Green Castle, South Eleuthera on Thursday, April 18th, 2024, with a ceremony held on

the grounds of the facility, touting the new location as its first ever on a Family Island.

Minister of Education, Technical and Vocational Training, the Hon. Glenys Hanna-Martin was in atten-

dance, joined by other officials from BTVI, including BTVI president, Dr. Linda A. Davis; Board Director, Lionel Sands; as well as member of parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, and Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs, the Hon. Clay Sweeting.

At the opening, BTVI president Davis welcomed the crowd of community members, who showed up to mark the occasion at the new BTVI campus, which had been totally refurbished, at the site of the old Wemyss Bight primary school, atop the hill, behind the more recent primary school campus.

She remarked on the tremendous significance of the opening, saying, “BTVI is on a mission. This structure is needed. The skills learned are needed. We have come to Eleuthera for a time such as this. I am excited to be a part of such a major move and accomplishment. This is the first physical extension on our Family Islands. This place will become one of exploration for those seeking to learn a skill or to upgrade existing skills. This facility, we hope, stands as a catalyst for possibilities - the birthing and strengthening of careers in the trades.”

Minister Sweeting, also spent time at the podium, and highlighted that the opening of the physical BTVI campus was the culmination of one of his many goals for the island.

New BTVI campus facility located at the top of the hill, adjacent to the current Green Castle Primary School.

GET CRACKING!

Storm forecasters have told us to brace ourselves for a super aggressive Atlantic hurricane season.

Colorado State University issued its most forceful preseason forecast since starting in 1984, calculating 23 named storms, 11 hurricanes and five major hurricanes. The Atlantic hurricane season officially starts June 1, so it’s time to get cracking.

Understand your Risk: You can take steps to protect your home by understanding the risk. If you live in an area prone to flooding or in an evacuation zone, you should be on top of any structural home weaknesses. Water and wind impacts can extend beyond coastal areas, so don’t shrug it off if you live inland.

Inspect your home: Seal windows against driving rain, using a good quality, exterior-grade caulk. Have a professional deal with any cracks in the wall or foundation. Does your roof have hur-

ricane straps to reinforce the connection between the roof truss and the wall plate? What sort of condition is the roof in? Are your storm shutters in working order?

Tree Damage: A properly maintained tree is one of the best ways to protect a home from damage. The risk of tree failure from severe weather is reduced by proper pruning to remove weak, diseased, or structurally compromised branches. Unless they are compromised or a threat to structures, arborists typically recommend removing mainly the interior branches.

This thins the tree canopy and allows wind to flow through more easily. There is a science and art to pruning trees, not to mention safety issues. Use an experienced “tree doctor” to deal with any trees that may pose a danger to your home or utility poles and wires on your property.

Protect Appliances: To help protect appliances against high voltage, install a whole-house surge protector on your electrical panel. Use point of use surge protectors (the strip you plug devices into) as another layer of protection.

Evacuation Plan: The primary dangers from storms are from sea surge, inland flooding from heavy rainfall, high winds and tornadoes. This means everyone should have an escape plan. Devise an evacuation plan now and remember to include pets. Draw up a handwritten communications plan. Share the plan with your family.

Emergency Water Supply: Water is vital to life. Store at least one gallon of drinking water per person per day for two weeks, if possible. Consider buying a large emergency storage container to safely store water. These products are sterile and designed to hold drinking water. Store tap water in sealed containers for bathing and flushing toilets.

Label the drinking water and the nondrinking water. Keep a supply of bleach on hand for cleaning mold. Pack a Go Kit. Stock up on zip lock baggies or waterproof bags to store meds, passports and important documents.

For a comprehensive checklist list, visit https://www.redcross.org/content/ dam/redcross/get-help/pdfs/hurricane/ EN_Hurricane-Safety-Checklist.pdf.

By Mike Lightbourn

Questions or comments? Contact me at info@cbbahamas.com

Mike Lightbourn is president of Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty.

Health Minister Introduces Compendium of Cannabis Regulation Bills in HOA

On Wednesday morning, May 15th, 2024, Bahamas Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Michael Darville, during his presentation in the House of Assembly, introduced a compendium of new and amended bills, which he outlined would establish a regulated medical cannabis framework for the country - including its cultivation, transportation, manufacturing, and retail.

The following is an excerpt from his presentation: “The journey to this moment has indeed been humbling. It has been a journey of learning, understanding, and recognizing the potential for healing and relief that medical cannabis can bring. It has reinforced my belief that our role in health care is not just to treat symptoms but to touch lives, to understand the human experience behind each case, and to act with empathy and courage.

“Today, I am pleased to outline the specifics of the compendium of bills that establish a regulated medical cannabis framework for The Bahamas, demonstrating our administration’s commitment to progressive healthcare solutions while ensuring robust regulatory oversight to protect public health.

“The centerpiece of this legislative package, the Cannabis Bill 2023, is designed to introduce a controlled system for cannabis use in medical treatments. This Bill establishes the Bahamas Cannabis Authority, a regulatory body overseeing all aspects of cannabis management from cultivation to distribution. The Authority’s mandate is to ensure that cannabis production and use are safe, controlled, and effectively integrated into our healthcare system.

“Accompanying this is the Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Bill, which reclassifies cannabis by removing it from the list of “dangerous drugs” and recognizing its potential for medical use. This change aligns our national laws with evolving global perspectives on cannabis, acknowledging its medical value based on current scientific evidence. This Bill also sets stringent penalties for violations of the new regulations, maintaining strict controls over the production and distribution of cannabis to prevent illegal activities.

“Another critical piece of legislation that will be [laid] at the appropriate time is the Health Professions (Amendment) Bill, which modifies existing laws to incorporate the medical use of

cannabis. It outlines the qualifications and training requirements for healthcare providers who will prescribe and dispense cannabis, ensuring they are well-equipped to offer this treatment option safely and responsibly. The Bill mandates that healthcare professionals who handle cannabis must undergo specific training focused on its therapeutic benefits and potential risks.

“Furthermore, the Hospitals and Health Care Facilities (General) (Amendment) Regulations have been updated to ensure that facilities equipped to handle cannabis meet stringent health and safety standards. These regulations specify how cannabis should be stored, handled, and administered within healthcare settings, ensuring that patient safety is always prioritized.

“The Pharmacy (Amendment) Bill also plays a crucial role by establishing protocols for the dispensation of medical cannabis. It creates a new category of pharmacy—the cannabis dispensary, which is specifically licensed to handle and dispense cannabis with oversight by a licensed pharmacist. This Bill ensures that all dispensing procedures meet high safety standards

OEF’s Earth Day Fest Celebrates 12th Anniversary

The One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF), hosted their Annual Earth Day Festival on Saturday, April 27th, 2024. The event held in celebration of OEF’s 12th Anniversary, was held during the week of International Earth Day, with a focus on sustainability and environmental awareness.

The Festival, which began at 10am until 7pm on the Saturday, was geared towards families coming out and enjoying the day. Vendor booths surrounded the pool area of The Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) campus in Rock Sound with its beautifully spacious surrounding lawn and gardens. Shawna McCartney, Community Engagement and Special Events Officer, explained, “We wanted to create a family-friendly environment, and an experience that would allow people to expand their awareness.”

Vendor booths included offerings of a variety of foods, drinks, artisanal crafts, goods, jewelry, as well as organizational booths, providing information and awareness of different aspects of Eleuthera’s environment. “Some of the vendors we have today are people who would normally participate in our Farmer’s Market events - we wanted to create a variety of wholesome food and drink options for people to enjoy. In addition, we also invited some of the local organizations that we partner with from time to time, to help spread our message, like the Eleuthera Sustain-

ability Council, Clean Beaches Eleuthera, The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, BAMSI, as well as Family Medicine Center conducting free screenings,” said Ms. McCartney.

Schools were also invited to take part in the Festival by competing with art pieces conveying an environmental message, and three schools showcased entries - including North Eleuthera High School, Tarpum Bay Primary and Deep Creek Primary School. Entries submitted included a variety of mediums, including paper mache, shellwork, recycled art, and more.

Other highlights of the afternoon, included a local live band performance by the New Vision band, a demonstration by the Eleuthera Royal Youth Corp (ERYC), led by RBPF Officer Brown, as well as fun activities on the lawn - including a sack race, organized by a group of visiting Governor General’s Youth Award (GGYA) leaders, from across The Bahamas - who chose to spend a special ‘day away’ in Eleuthera, with OEF’s Earth Day Festival. A live Junkanoo Rushout by the Tarpum Bay Junkanoo Superstars climaxed the evening activities.

Officer Brown with members of the Eleuthera Royal Youth Corp.

Pictured (L-R): Kristel Anderson and Bekera Taylor with the Eleuthera Sustainability Council.

Above: Art and craft submitted by schools themed on environmental awareness and sustainability.

Pictured: Local children compete in a fun sack race, guided by visiting GGYA leaders from throughout The Bahamas.

New Bills Support Nation’s Energy Reforms, Says PM

NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his Contribution to the Debate on the Electricity Bill, 2024 and the Natural Gas Bill, 2024, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis stated that the two Bills provided the legislative framework that will support “our nation’s energy reforms – reforms that will light the way forward to a brighter future”.

“Our objectives are clear,” Prime Minister Davis said in the House of Assembly, on May 1, 2024. “We want to lower light bills for Bahamian families and businesses. We want to ensure that the electricity supply is more reliable, so that power outages are a thing of the past. And we want to drive our country’s transition to cleaner energy.

“The bills before us today are essential to supporting progress on all of these fronts.” Prime Minister Davis noted that his Government will soon deliver the country’s first comprehensive energy reforms, and that those reforms will deliver savings for the Bahamian people.

“For too long, the cost of electricity has afflicted Bahamian families and businesses,” he said. “For many, their light bill at the end of the month comes close to – or even tops – their rent or mortgage payment. It’s a major expense, and a major burden. Small businesses which might otherwise have succeeded have

closed their doors because of the impact that the cost of electricity had on their bottom line.”

Prime Minister Davis added: “In addition, the global inflation crisis hit small island nations like ours especially hard. Despite the fact that my government has raised the minimum wage, lowered VAT, and lowered customs duties, the rising tide of inflation has dampened the impact of these empowerment policies and robbed our people of the gains they are due. However, we aren’t close to finished – we are building affordable housing, and investing significantly in our agricultural sector, and there are more important reforms and policies to come.”

Prime Davis pointed out that his Government had always known that to see enduring relief from the high cost of living in The Bahamas, it would need to bring down the cost of electricity. “I emphasized earlier that the reforms we are planning will be comprehensive — because we share with the Bahamian people a conviction that our electricity sector requires transformation, and that we need to put the days of tinkering at the margins – the days of Band-Aids and temporary fixes – behind us,” he stated.

“We need system-wide change, because in order to reduce the cost of electricity for consumers, we need

a grid that is well-designed, effective and efficient,” Prime Minister Davis added. He stated that the power grid was at the end of its life. “We simply cannot lower costs – or meet our full potential as a nation –with outdated, deteriorating energy infrastructure,” Prime Minister Davis said. He noted that an, “aging 20th century grid can’t support a dynamic 21st century economy.”

Prime Minister Davis pointed out: “Not in a digital era, when so many of us rely on computers and smartphones for working and studying, and not in a climate change era, when

warmer temperatures mean the air conditioning gets turned on more often. Not when smart and serious investors require reliable, sustainable power.” He added that his Government was working to make government buildings more energy-efficient, and to encourage responsible electricity consumption and the use of energy-efficient appliances in the public and private sector.

“But the reality is, the demands on our power generation and delivery systems are only going to go up, not down,” Prime Minister Davis said. “And not only is our grid deteriorating – making it prone to outages, and vulnerable during strong storms – it also lacks the capacity to integrate largescale renewable energy. Not long ago, one of our Caribbean neighbours had to stop a large-scale, multi-million dollar solar expansion upon realizing that its outdated power grid could not absorb solar generation,” he continued. “This is no mere hiccup; setbacks of this nature cost the people time and money. We will not make the same mistake.”

Prime Minister Davis pointed out that solar energy had always been essential to his Government’s plans –but solar power was intermittent. That meant, he said, the amount of solar power generated “will fluctuate – will vary – depending on whether it’s a sunny day or a cloudy day, daytime or nighttime. Using solar energy across our archipelago requires careful planning and design, and major new investments in grid flexibility and energy storage,” he added.

Prime Minister Davis noted that the BPL his Government inherited from its predecessors was in “serious crisis”. He said: “$500 million in debt. Half a billion dollars. With experts telling us we need another $500 million in capital investments, to rescue and then modernize a grid on the verge of collapse. “That’s more than one billion dollars, just to get BPL on track. And that’s before we get to the additional $100 million-plus in pension liabilities. And let me say this clearly: we will meet every commitment to our workers. No one will lose their job, and pension and other commitments will be met.”

“So, while we are clear about how crucial it is to lower bills for Bahamians struggling with the too-high cost of living, clear about the necessity and urgency of upgrading our grid, and clear about our commitment to Bahamian workers, we aren’t going to say that it’s been simple or effortless, finding the right way forward – especially during a time when many other countries are making their own transitions to solar and LNG, and the availability of critical

materials can lead to long wait times,” Prime Minister Davis added.

“But we have big ambitions for The Bahamas and for the Bahamian people. And we don’t believe in standing still. We came here to tackle the most difficult and most consequential problems – the ones that hold our country and our people back.” Prime Minister Davis stated that, to create a 21st century economy, The Bahamas needed “a 21st century power grid – a modern grid that is more efficient and cost-effective, capable of transmitting clean energy, and more resilient and capable of withstanding hurricanes.”

“In other words: a new energy future for our country: extensive use of solar power, in New Providence and in the Family Islands, LNG as a partner fuel, and a modern power grid,” he stated. He added: “We have already begun laying the foundation for this paradigm shift in our Family Islands. In December of last year, we put out a Request For Proposals for Solar and LNG generation in the islands and saw a strong response from both international and local providers. We are now in the final stages of selection, and I look forward to being able to announce the providers in the coming weeks.”

Prime Minister Davis noted that, as The Bahamas moved forward, it needed the right laws in place to support its progress. “With the Electricity Bill (2024), we are repealing and replacing the Electricity Act and repealing the Electricity Rate Reduction Bond Act, which promised funding that never materialized,” he said. “Our Bill ensures that URCA (Utilities Regulation & Competition Authority) will have regulatory oversight over renewable energy, and promotes the adoption of

efficient energy practices,” Prime Minister Davis added. “URCA will also act as an arbitrator should any disputes arise between licensees and a third party.”

Prime Minister Davis stated that the Bill allowed system operators to enter into management agreements with licensees to manage specific functions, and allowed URCA to take restorative natural disaster relief costs into account when tariff rates were being determined. “The Bill introduces a transition period of three years in which URCA will accept the existing tariff rates presently in effect for licensees,” he said. “During the next three years, a tariff review will be conducted with the objective of making the rates more equitable. It is our intention for tariff rates to residential consumers to go down, not up.”

He added: “This forward-looking Bill is also the first legislation in our nation’s history to regulate artificial intelligence and machine learning. In clause 18, the Bill requires any person or entity developing or deploying AI (artificial intelligence) and ML (machine learning) to demonstrate transparency and comply with all applicable laws, including those which cover data protection, cybersecurity, privacy and intellectual property.” Prime Minister Davis pointed out that there was also the requirement that the use of AI be inclusive by design, considering the needs of the elderly, disabled, and other vulnerable groups.

“This is comprehensive legislation, characterised by the effort to modernise the legal framework so that we can deliver change for the Bahamian people, while ensuring that URCA has robust regulatory powers,” he said. “The legislation provides URCA with the legal authority to navigate a complex, evolving energy landscape, with the flexibility to take advantage of innovations and opportunities in the sector.” Prime Minister Davis added: “This Bill also specifies that the Grand Bahama Power Company is an approving authority for the island of Grand Bahama – that simply means it is authorised to generate and sell electricity in that jurisdiction.

KCSE Aims to Empower Young Writers with Handwriting Workshop

A handwriting workshop, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of South Eleuthera (KCSE), aimed to empower young minds with the invaluable skill of handwriting. Organizers with the KCSE described the workshop, which was held during the month of April 2024, as a resounding success.

Held at the Rock Sound Methodist Church hall, it drew a diverse crowd of twenty-five parents, children, and teachers eager to absorb practical wisdom from occupational therapist, Sheila Allen and tutor, Griz Calderon. KCSE’s Tracie Penfound (communications),

shared, “Their mission, was to equip attendees with essential tools and insights to guide budding writers through every stage of development, from pre-writing to confident schoolbound scholars.”

She continued, “The workshop illuminated crucial foundations of sensation, movement control, attention, and planning, essential for handwriting development at all levels. Participants received personalized attention and guidance, addressing unique concerns and queries.

“Each child departed with a pencil box filled with drawing

and writing materials, alongside a notebook brimming with possibilities, symbolizing encouragement and potential. The workshop’s impact transcended mere supplies, sparking newfound enthusiasm for the written word.”

Penfound encouraged, “Parents and teachers seeking guidance on pre-writing activities, handwriting instruction, addressing special needs, and fostering writing

skills for self-expression, school, and daily life, please reach out to Griz (grizcalderon610@gmail.com) or Sheila (sheilasmithallen@gmail.com).” She added, “In a world where words wield unparalleled power, the Kiwanis Handwriting Workshop stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us all that the journey to change begins with a single stroke of the pen.”

Shown: Occupational therapist, Sheila Allen (left) engages with students and parents during a KCSE sponsored handwriting workshop.

More Than 200 ‘unregulated’ Structures Destroyed in North Eleuthera by Government Demolitions

Above: The government’s Unregulated Structures Task force on the ground in North Eleuthera, during the week of May 6th, 2024.

Demolition of unregulated structures within the community of Blackwood in North Eleuthera began on Tuesday, May 7th, 2024, with more than

fifty structures destroyed on the first day, and demolition work continuing within that community on Wednesday, and Thursday.

This action in early May followed a visit to Eleuthera by the Unregulated Community Taskforce, led by Minister of Works, Clay Sweeting, during the week of March 18th, which saw the taskforce team assess and investigate unregulated structures throughout the island, including in Spanish Wells/ Russell Island, Blackwood, Palmetto Point, Rock Sound and Green Castle. 28-day notices of demolition, during the March visit, were posted on several hundred unregulated structures on the island.

In a brief interview on the Wednesday - day two of demolition activities, Police Superintendent Stephen Carey out of New Providence, with resposibility for the taskforce, explained, “On Tuesday, May 7th, a team of police officers led by myself, along with Defence Force and Immigration - went into Blackwood, accompanied by

Ministry of Works and Social Services personnel - where a total of 52 structures were demolished. We are presently in Blackwood for the completion of the demolition.” Officer Carey said that one undocumented person was also arrested on Tuesday and transferred into New Providence, and added, “Today, Immigration will be doing their checks, and we will continue with the same security protocol as we did yesterday. Thus far, there were no incidents in Blackwood to this point.”

Craig Delancy, Building Controls Officer with the Ministry of Works, detailing the scope of demolition said, “On Tuesday we started the demolition process in Blackwood, and we were able to demolish approximately 52 structures, consisting of housing units, storage sheds and a commercial store. We are con-

ESA at Exuma Regatta, a whirlwind of traditional sailing and victory

The weekend of April 24th to 27th marked an extraordinary moment for Eleuthera Sailing Academy (ESA) as they ventured into the heart of George Town, Exuma, to participate in the National Family Island Regatta. Participation in the event was made possible by the entire community as they received substantial support from numerous donors and organizations from Eleuthera. ESA leaders commented, “We owe a huge thanks for the coordination efforts of our local government, and the support of the Honorable Minister Clay Sweeting.”

A major highlight for team ESA was the generous donation of the ‘Sugar Loaf’ E CLASS sloop, masterfully crafted by the legendary boat builder Mark Knowles. This notable addition enabled them to field a team of five skilled sailors from ESA, who were excited to take on the challenge. Despite being newcomers to

the traditional Bahamian sailing competition, the team was eager to prove that all the wins achieved in the youth Olympic classes could be translated into sloop racing as well.

Sharing details of the experience at the Family Island Regatta, ESA team leaders described, “The excitement was palpable from the moment we touched down in Exuma, thanks to a smooth flight with Pineapple Air and a warm welcome with accommodations arranged perfectly. Our representatives included siblings Finley and Taryn McKinney-Lambert, crowd favorite Lorenzo Laramore, and the amazing Hauber twins, Mykela and Yemaha. Taryn, Mykela and Yemaha made history at the ripe old age of 12 by forming the regatta’s first all-female crew aboard Baby Thunderbird (The youngest sailors on perhaps the oldest boat!).”

They continued, “The regatta was a true baptism by fire with strong

winds and challenging conditions. We faced hurdles like broken rudders and leaky boats, but our young sailors, true to form, rose to the occasion by displaying incredible resilience and teamwork. They learned the intricacies of E Class racing, tackled repairs with aplomb, and even mastered the art of communicating with seasoned sailors in true bahamian slang all while keeping a smile on their faces.

“Despite the challenges, we faced the regatta with determination. The proof of Bahamian camaraderie was evident from the start, when the Sugar Loaf team encountered rudder issues before a race. Thanks to the quick assistance from the crew of Lady AnneMarie (who dived in the water just 30 seconds before the cannonball shot!), we

overcame the obstacle just in time to clinch 3rd place. Our performance drew attention and sparked both excitement and surprise, but we knew we were just warming up.

“This was no casual day out on the sound. In the first day alone, 6 (SIX!) E Class sloops sank while racing! Just finishing the races was an accomplishment for these young sailors! As the event progressed, the girls of Baby Thunderbird faced unique challenges, having to contend with a leaky boat and the arduous task of bailing out water consistently. Their resilience and persistence through equipment failures and tough conditions made the challenge and its growth even bigger. As we learn at the Island School, “The obstacle is the way!”

Above: Taryn, Mykela and Yemaha competing in the E-class of competition on ‘Baby Thunderbird’.

Above: Finley and Lorenzo competing in the E-class of competition on the ‘Sugar Loaf’.

“Our team consistently performed well, making strategic decisions and executing fantastic tactical sailing, they maintained top positions throughout the races. With each day offering new experiences and challenges we continued to push ourselves to a thrilling final day where victory hung in the balance.

“And the results? Simply phenomenal! We secured first place overall, proving that our training and dedication truly paid off. This victory wasn’t just about winning, it was about breaking barriers and inspiring young Bahamians to embrace the

beauty and challenge of sailing.

“The regatta reignited our passion for bridging the gap between Optimist racing and the E Class. Witnessing the incredible skills and sportsmanship of both the young and veteran sailors solidified our belief that a combined effort can cultivate a thriving sailing community in The Bahamas.”

About future activities, and continued fundraising efforts, ESA leaders appealed, “Our dreams don’t stop there. We envision a future filled with boat-building courses, more teenagers experiencing the thrill of E Class sailing, and an annual re-

gatta showcasing the best of Eleuthera’s sailing talent. This is where we need your support... Help us turn these dreams into reality by contributing to our ongoing fundraising efforts. Your generosity will allow us to offer more opportunities for young Bahamians to discover the joy of sailing and contribute to the rich maritime heritage of our islands. To contribute to our fundraiser, please visit: (https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/makethemsailors).

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Pictured above: ESA team members at the Exuma Regatta pose in front of the new Sugar Loaf.

Samuel Guy Pinder All Age Sweeps World Art Day 2024 Family Island Division

In recognition of World Art Day, the Visual Arts Unit of the Humanities Section of the Ministry of Education and Technical and Vocational Training in conjunction with UNESCO The Bahamas hosted an exhibition and competition that saw the participation of public schools throughout the Bahamas. In a ceremony dubbed “A Garden of Expression: Cultivating Community Through Art”, winners of the art competition were announced and presented with prizes sponsored by the Chinese Embassy.

Sweeping the Family Island category was Spanish Wells’ Samuel Guy Pinder All-Age School who received 1st, 2nd and 3rd places. In New Providence, capturing first place was Clara Major of C.V. Bethel Senior High School. Following in 2nd place was Krysten Louis from Doris Johnson Senior High School, and receiv-

ing 3rd place was Kaylee Valcine from C.C. Sweeting Senior High School.

Charge de’ Affairs Cui Wei delivered remarks on behalf of the Chinese Embassy. Meantime offering words of motivation to young budding artists was His Excellency Jamaal Rolle, Ambassador to UNESCO. Minister of Education and Technical and Vocational Training Glenys Hanna Martin while address-

Left - Pictured are students of Grades four and five, currently at the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School - who won 1st Place.

ing the audience reiterated the significance of art and the role it plays in students’ development. Offering similar sentiments were Acting Director of Education Dominique McCartney- Russell. Permanent Secretary Lorraine Armbrister read the message from the DirectorGeneral of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay on the occasion of World Art Day. The day recognizes the importance of art and its contribution to cultural and economic growth.

Samuel Guy Pinder All Age congratulated their participating students and

teacher, writing, “A big hearty congratulations goes out to Ms. Bastian - Art Teacher and the students of the Art Department who took part in the Ministry of Education’s World Art Day Competition 2024 under the theme, “A Garden Of Expression: Cultivating Community Through Art”. Our students walked away with a clean sweep of 1st, 2nd and 3rd place wins. 1st PlaceStudents of Grade 4 and 5; 2nd Place - Brettesha Sands of Grade 12; and 3rd PlaceStudents of Grade 3. Awesome job!”

2nd Place - Brettesha Sands of Grade 12

3rd PlaceStudents of Grade 3

Demolitions in North Eleuthera

tinuing the demolition today (Wednesday, May 8th), and we hope to get through at least another fifty plus structures today, depending on the operator, equipment, and not having any mechanical issues.”

About the overall progress of the demolition works, he described, “I would say that we are about 30% completed from yesterday’s activities, and we hope that we can get a bit more done today than yesterday. Because we are starting a little bit earlier - and we have identified all of the structures that did not have a building permit.”

“The criteria for identifying unregulated structures,” continued Delancy, “is that the owner or the occupant has to show that they have a valid building permit for their structure. From our research and from our previous visit, many of the structures were not permitted and that is one of the reasons why we are dealing with them - because they are also a fire hazard. Some of the structures are too close to each other. Some are not built to the minimum code standards. So, we want to ensure that all construction throughout The Bahamas is being done under the [stipulations of the] Building Regulation Act.”

By Thursday evening, May 9th, the Ministry of Works confirmed that a total of 204 unregulated structures had been demolished in the Blackwood community, with further plans to continue demolition activity on Monday, May 13th on Russell Island. Officer Delancy later informed that a number of the unregulated structures on Russell Island had been vacated, but demolition activities were incomplete. The taskforce returned to New Providence during the week of May 13th, with plans to go back to Russell Island to complete demolitions.

Members of the Department of Social Services were also on hand during the demolition activity. Nickal Symonette - Chief Welfare Officer for Eleuthera, shared that after canvassing the areas of the shanty towns and informing people about what the department’s assistance can do for them, following the taskforce posting of demolition notices in March, the response had been underwhelming. “We have had minimal persons applying for assistance, and right now on record, we would have had one person make application for rent assistance.”

When asked about the issue of homelessness of the displaced families, Officer Symonette shared, “...Basically, those persons who are being displaced are either living with family members or persons who would have had homes that are going to stay right here on property in Blackwood. But one of the things that need to be noted is that the North Eleuthera district, does

not have many places or facilities for rental - so they would actually have to go outside of the district to apply for some type or form of rental assistance.”

Two days following the demolition activity in Blackwood, on Saturday, May 12th, a twenty-eight year-old resident of Blackwood, who shared that he had grown up in Eleuthera, and returned to the island a number of years ago after spending time living in New Providence, commenting on how the destruction had affected the community, said, “Most of the people living here had no place to go. There was no providence, and kids are out of the schools. People are sleeping in tents... We have babies out here, and kids out here. It’s bad.” He continued, acknowledging the illegality of the building structures, saying, “At the same time, we have got to face through it. We know we were wrong, and have got to accept that.”

On people’s immediate living situations with former homes flattened, he informed, “Some people, if you know somebody, and they are kind enough, you go... A guy who was providing some tents for people who don’t have a place to go - police stopped him - a U.S. pastor who preached in Blackwood before. At the end of the day, you know it’s wrong and you have to accept it... But, we still have people with no place to go... Police are telling us we cannot stay in Blackwood.” When asked about where those people were at that time, he said, “Around, walking around stillthey have no where to go.”

Further issues highlighted were of some demolished areas being looted, displaced residents coming to terms with loss of possessions - crushed under the rubble, and with kitchens destroyed in the demolition - the immediate need for people accessing the ability to prepare food.

When asked his opinion about where the community goes from here, he commented, “There ain’t no coming through. The only way you can come through right now is if you are working in Spanish Wells, and the person in Spanish Wells allow you to do it [build], and you do it with a plan, by law. People don’t mind. But not everybody is working in Spanish Wells.”

In addition to a lack of rental unit capacity in the North Eleuthera area to absorb the newly displaced population from within the Blackwood community, anecdotal accounts describe former residents of Blackwood (with permits, Bahamian residency or passport status) being turned away by potential landlords once they learn they are from the Blackwood community.

Some local Eleutherans expressed that despite the 28-day demolition notices, the expectation that Haitian residents affected by the demolition would

be able to find appropriate alternative living accommodations within that time, was an unreasonable one. “Losing your home and your possessions in a forceful way like that is very challenging. Not only for you in that moment, physically, but also mentally... These people are human beings with journeys and stories, and they have to be treated in a humane way, and not cast out like wild animals,” said one North Eleutheran.

Another local, commenting on both sides of the coin, opined, “The Bahamian citizen will be held over the fire and harassed to no end when it comes to enforcing the various laws as it pertains to building and residency and getting your power (electricity) and this and that. So, on that end, I believe fully that the law must be applied - if it is going to be applied fairly and across the board with no exceptions. The simple little chicken coop you want to put in your yard, you are being harassed by this one and that one about having a permit. So, we cannot allow foreigners to do as they please.”

They continued, “On the flip side of that, where you have allowed a situation to mushroom, and that should have been dealt with a long time ago - For

the sake of being humane and preserving dignity - I agree that some path should be made for those who are here legally in the country. Those here illegally need to be sent back home, and helped at home where they have status. Those who are living legally in the country, there should be some path to securing some housing so dignity and

Above: Displaced residents of Blackwood sheltering in temporary tent facilities.

Shown: Piles of rubble from demolished structures on fire in North Eleuthera.

Social Services Engage the Community During Child Abuse Prevention Month

Schools and churches throughout the North, Central and South Eleuthera districts were visited by members of the Department of Social Services (DOSS) team on the island, during the month of April and early May, as they took the opportunity to engage with community members and students on topics in relation to prevention of abuse, in recognition of ‘Child Abuse Prevention Month’.

Team leader, and Chief Social Worker, Nickal Symonette, shared that efforts during the month were focused on making the community-at-large more aware of the scourge of child abuse, with the national theme of ‘One Nation United to Protect Our Children’. Her team of social workers, including Ms. Rushell Green, Mrs. Williams, Ms. Tiffany Simms, Mrs. Sherneice Major, and Ms. Tameera McCardy, working along with partners in the Royal Bahamas Police Force, targeted high schools, primary schools, pre-schools, as well as churches. The different community groups and students, said Mrs. Symonette, were informed of the various types and signs of child abuse, how to protect oneself from abuse, and the importance of reporting child abuse.

When asked about what the situation looked like in 2023 pertaining to child abuse on the island of Eleuthera, Mrs. Symonette confirmed that there in fact, had been “an uptick in

Shown on page: An engagement session on Wednesday, May 1st, where Police and Social Services visited with students at the Wemyss Bight Primary School. Facilitators included, police inspectors Clarke and Knowles of the Rock Sound Police Station, in collaboration with social worker, Ms. Tiffany Simms. The team spoke with the grade five and six students at the school about various forms of abuse, such as physical, emotional neglect, mental, verbal and sexual abuse.

Child Abuse cases in 2023 compared to 2022”.

Commenting on the importance of protecting children within their community and how the public can play an active role in that protection, Mrs. Symonette said, “Protecting children in the Bahamas and the Eleuthera District is everybody’s business. The reporting of cases by the community is paramount as it can save a life.” She added, that the public can reach out to the Department of Social Services with regard to child protection matters at any time on their hotline numbers - 322-2763, 711 or 422-2763. She said, additionally, people can call the Department of Social Services locally (numbers provided at the end of this article). “Our team is also always available to assist the public even if it’s an anonymous call,” she stated.

The Royal Bahamas Police Force as well as Public Health Services, said Mrs. Symonette, have been solid partners with the DOSS of the matter of child protection, both during Child Protection Month and throughout the year. “The Police Department, Public Health Staff, and the Department of Social Services work in tandem to eradicate child abuse... Should the public report matters to the Police Department we would be involved in the interventionist process. This is an ongoing intervention,” she emphasized. In answer to the question of staffing levels at the DOSS on the island, and the adequacy compared to the demands, Mrs. Symonette

commented, “As is, Social Services can benefit from additional staff members. That is, persons who are equipped with a Bachelors Degree or above in Social Work. This would increase case movements, interventions and management.”

Department of Social Services -

Local Contact Numbers in Eleuthera:

• Rock Sound - 334-2003

• Governor’s Harbour - 332-2460

• Lower Bogue - 335-1436

• Harbour Island - 333-3034

Minister Bell Hopes to Gauge Eleutheran’s Demand for ‘affordable’ Housing at Upcoming Hand-over ceremony

Housing Minister Keith Bell, while on Eleuthera in late April, commented on the work being done to complete the first housing units at the Ocean Hole Subdivision in Rock Sound, and hinted at an upcoming ceremony to hand over the first keys of that affordable housing subdivision.

He informed, “I came to the island because we are developing a subdivision called Ocean Hole. You would take note that we are building six homes there, and we are now in the process of acquiring 30 acres to ensure that we meet the housing demands for Eleutherans. We anticipate that those homes will be completed in the next two to three weeks, and we are coming to Eleuthera to ensure that we put Bahamians in those homes.

“In addition to that, I want to make

a clarion call to every Eleutheran who are desirous of attaining a home - even if you are not in a position, where you do not have your deposit, or you think you may not be able to afford the monthly payments - do not count yourself out. Come out and see us, and we are prepared to work with you. To ensure you get home ownership - where we either are able to put you in a home, or we are able to put you in our rent-to-own program. You can learn much more about that by contacting the Ministry of Housing.”

Minister Bell emphasized that the upcoming key hand over ceremony would be used as a gauge for the remaining demand for affordable housing on the island, saying, “We want Eleutherans to come out during the Ocean Hole opening ceremony, to see

the different models of those homes, and to look at the standard, and most importantly the quality of those homes so that they could be convinced that they ought to go this route in terms of ensuring that they get a home.”

He continued, “The first stage for all those coming out now, is they have to be assessed and evaluated to see where they are. You don’t want to put the cart before the horse. So, the idea is to let us come, and let us see what they are able to meet. And let us see the demand. Based on the demand, we will know what we need to supply... This is all part of our administration providing affordable homes for our Bahamians.”

The proposed opening, according to Minister Bell, would possibly take place during the month of May 2024.

Elite Customs Brokers

Courier

Tel: 332-3066

Harbour, Eleuthera

However, an actual date was not confirmed before publication.

When asked about the 100 acres transferred to the Ministry of Housing in Hatchet Bay, and whether that area would be part of the latest push to continue affordable housing construction in Eleuthera, he said, “A government’s responsibility is to provide homes, but not just homes - affordable homes for its population, and so that here in Eleuthera - and all the different land areas we have... We are also looking to meet the demands in other areas. It does not stop in Eleuthera, we are also talking about San Salvador, Andros, Abaco, Grand Bahama and New Providence - where the majority of the population lives.”

Country’s Health Minister Introduces Cannabis Bills in the HOA

and that dispensaries maintain accurate records of cannabis transactions to monitor usage and prevent abuse.

“In addition to these regulatory measures, the legislation includes provisions for licensing cannabis handlers across various categories, including cultivation, transportation, manufacturing, and retail.

Licensing is structured to prioritize Bahamian ownership, with provisions ensuring that significant control remains in the hands of Bahamian nationals, fostering local entrepreneurship and economic benefits across the country.

“The comprehensive nature of this legislation reflects our dedication to creating a legal medical cannabis industry that is safe, effective, and beneficial for patients needing alternative treatments. It represents a thoughtful and balanced approach to introducing a new medical solution into our healthcare landscape, considering the potential benefits and the necessary safeguards to protect our community.

“As we move forward with this historic legislation, we are mindful of the responsibility that comes with it. We are committed to continuous monitoring and evaluation of this new healthcare initiative. We will ensure

that it meets the current needs of our citizens but also adapts to future developments in medical research and patient care.

“...We stand on the brink of a transformative moment in the history of healthcare in The Bahamas. We are driven by a simple yet profound principle: doing nothing for those in pain with specific debilitating medical conditions is not an option. Especially when there is a path to alleviate suffering and bring relief to those who endure daily challenges that most of us can only imagine, it is not just an opportunity; it is a duty.’

“The compendium of bills for medical cannabis that we lay today is more than legislation; it is a beacon of hope for countless Bahamians whose voices have often gone unheard. Who have to travel abroad and cross borders to access the proven benefits of medical Cannabis that is illegal to possess in the Bahamas.

“...By passing and enacting these bills, we will provide new treatment options for those in need and position The Bahamas at the forefront of healthcare innovation in the region.”

“Let us be clear: the path we propose today with the introduction of medical cannabis is one marked by rigorous controls, free of political colors and a deep commitment to public health. But it is also a path paved with stories of individual mothers and fathers who might finally receive the relief they desperately need. It is these personal stories, these individual faces, that must guide our actions.

“We are here to make a difference, enact change, and remove years of stigma that has the power to transform lives. The legislation before us offers a carefully considered, responsibly crafted approach to introducing medical cannabis in the commonwealth of the Bahamas, ensuring that we prioritize the well-being and safety of our citizens.

“Today, let us choose action. Let us choose compassion. Let us choose to be the leaders who bring relief and hope to those who need it the most. I look forward to debating and passing these bills and ask for the support of members on both sides.”

Source: Bahamas Ministry of Health and Wellness

Page.

15 PM on Power

Contribution to the Debate on the Electricity Bill, 2024 and the Natural Gas Bill, 2024. (BIS Photo/Anthon Thompson)

Who does not want to benefit from more affordable, more reliable, cleaner energy? Yes, we believe Grand Bahama should be included.” He pointed out that the Bill also recognised URCA as the regulatory authority for Grand Bahama. “And this is nothing new,” he stated. “This Government has always maintained that the Electricity Act and URCA’s regulatory authority extends to the Grand Bahama Power Company, so this is nothing new. This view will now be reflected in the law.”

Prime Minister Davis noted that the Natural Gas Bill, regulated liquified natural gas (LNG) for power generation purposes. That Bill, he said, created a framework for LNG that ensured that all LNG-related operations were, “carried out in a safe, efficient, effective, economically viable and environmentally sound manner... I know the Bahamian people have heard about the potential of LNG for quite a number of years,” he said. “The Bill before us today finally paves the way for LNG to be effectively integrated into our fuel mix.” Prime Minister Davis added: “Through this Bill, we have assurances to the Bahamian people that the transport and storage of LNG will be done in accordance with the highest health and safety standards. This Bill also promotes competition within the sector by prohibiting anti-competitive agreements and practices.”

He pointed out that, once again, his Government was ensuring that the people of Grand Bahama were not left out, as the legislation specified that the Bill applied to the entirety of The Bahamas “inclusive of the Port Area in the island of Grand Bahama. For the avoidance of doubt, this Act applies to any gas sector supplier in the Port Area.” Prime Minister Davis noted: “Of course, URCA also retains its country-wide regulatory authority for matters pertaining to LNG as well. In fact, URCA will be empowered to expedite

approval for licenses as long as the company has been operating internationally for more than five years in an URCA-approved jurisdiction. Such companies must apply for a license within 12 months of the commencement of the Act. “The goal here is efficiency and flexibility so that LNG can be brought into our fuel mix as soon as possible.”

Prime Minister Davis pointed out that, as he said earlier, his Government’s commitment to BPL workers was “ironclad”. He said, “We will continue to honour existing union agreements. We will accomplish our objectives without layoffs. We are a government that takes our commitment to workers seriously.” Prime Minister Davis noted that his Government signed more than 25 new labour agreements in two and a half years. “We continue to have regular meetings with unions and take a proactive approach to dispute resolution, to ensure that Bahamian workers are respected and protected,” he added. “We

have always prioritised our partnerships and relationships with local unions, and BPL’s union is no exception.”

Prime Minister Davis stated that real energy reform required, “...embracing innovation, new opportunities, and more effective business models to get BPL back to a healthier financial standing, and to finally lower costs for consumers... We are ushering in a new era of power generation,” he said. “And I can say with confidence to the Bahamian people that we will deliver on those three strategic objectives of more affordable, more reliable, and cleaner electricity. This is a monumental undertaking – the most ambitious energy reform agenda ever initiated in our history,” Prime Minister Davis added.

“The Electricity Bill, 2024 and the Natural Gas Bill, 2024 have my unreserved support, as important stepping stones on the path to our country’s brighter energy future.”

Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis speaks, in the House of Assembly, on May 1, 2024, during his

DTU In Spanish Wells for New Registrants to Government’s MyGateway Platform

The Digital Transformation Unit (DTU), described as an ‘execution unit’ within the Ministry of Economic Affairs, was in Spanish Wells on Friday, April 19th and Saturday, April 20th, to conduct public awareness and training sessions, along with a sign-up drive for the government’s MyGateway.gov.bs platform, where a number of government services can be accessed, applied for and paid for online. Fourteen new services were recently launched by the DTU on MyGateway directly associated with the fishing industry,

and with more than a third of fishing licensees based in Spanish Wells - the team aimed to quickly familiarize this significant population with the cadre of new online services.

The sign-up drive booth was located at the Spanish Wells Food Fair over the course of the two days - where residents were assisted with registering on MyGateway, and shown how to request for and pay for online government services.

The targeted training sessions were hosted at the Spanish Wells Methodist Church Youth Hall, and presented as three modules. The first session with Department of Marine Resources Officers, ran from 9:30 am to noon on Friday. This was followed by a session focused on applying for fisheries permits from 1:00 pm until 3:30 pm. On Saturday, session three ran from 10:00 am until 3:00 pm, and focused on general public awareness and training.

Officials in attendance on Saturday, along with the team from the Digital Transformation Unit, included Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera and Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs, Mr. Clay Sweeting; Family Island Administrator, Lynton Pinder; Administrator for the North Eleuthera District, Stephen Wilson; and Spanish Wells District Council Chief Councilor, Mr. Robert Roberts.

Minister Sweeting, commenting about the team’s visit to his hometown, said, “This was a two-day event for persons in the Spanish Wells community - and it had several prongs - knowing that the lobster season would be approaching in August... When I was the Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources we launched a number of services to help make it easier for Family Islands residents, and Family Island fishermen to apply online to get their duty free permit, their fishing license, their com-

pressor permits, and all of that. So, this was an event to help to make persons aware of MyGateway, and also the services that the fishermen can utilize - as well as all the others, including road traffic, and all the other things that you can apply for on MyGateway.”

He continued, “We also spoke about the digital transformation of the government and where we are going with that. And... to include Family Island people, and how they come along with us - to ensure that they are made prevalent, and able to access the same services as the persons in New Providence.”

“DTU falls under the Ministry of Economic Affairs,” he added, “but they are partnered with the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources and also all other ministries. This here today tied into what I was trying to complete before I left [the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources]. Also, to supplement the Ministry of Works and Family Island Affairs, so during the next few months you will see a lot more services launched. The DTU was in Governor’s Harbour a few months ago, when we launched the HelpDesk, which is a patnership between the two ministries to assist persons on synchronizing with online services.”

Tammy Smith, the Monitoring and Evaluation specialist within the Digital Transformation Unit [DTU], as they wrapped up the training session on Saturday, described the DTU as an execution unit within the Ministry of Economic affairs operating under a 30 million dollar InterAmerican Bank loan.

Commenting on why the unit had targeted Spanish Wells in particular, she explained, “We had 14 services launched online with the Department of Marine Resources, and apparently we have 35% of the applicants who utilize, particularly the compressor permits and commercial business licenses, from Spanish Wells. We used this an an opportunity to upskill those persons, and also as a sign-up campaign, with outreach in the community to onboard more persons to the MyGateway platform.”

Mrs. Smith continued, “Yesterday (Friday) our session started at 9:30 am, and we had a lot of the persons from the fishing sector that participated... We showed them how to sign up, and how to utilize each of the 14 services. There were some insightful sug-

gestions for how we may be able to improve, and also possibilities for future advancements as well.”

Administrator Wilson commenting on the DTU’s visit, said, “The few days that the team were here, I know that it was an informative event and exercise for those persons [who took part]. It’s something new, and as we know, the world is evolving, and it is very important that we catch up with the changing times.”

The fourteen fishing industry services now available via MyGateway, include:

* Application for Commercial Fishing Permit - New and Renewal

* Application for Compressor Permit - New and Renewal

* Application for Crawfish Trapping Permit - New and Renewal

* Application for Flats Fishing Guide Licence - New and Renewal

* Application for Trap Stone Crab Permit - New and Renewal

* Commercial Fishing DutyFree Permit Equipment

* Commercial Fishing DutyFree Permit Vessels

* Bonefishing Duty-Free

* Fish Farming Duty-Free

Above: DTU team member assisting with a new MyGateway registration, during the training sessions.

Pictured above; MP Minister Clay Sweeting (center) stands with local government officials and members of the Digital Transformation Unit during MyGateway training sessions.

Young life Ministry, Raises Funds & Awareness with annual Walk For Hope

On Saturday, May 11th, a lively group of children and adult leaders from the ‘Young Life’ ministry, claimed the main road way, walking from the North Eleuthera High School campus in Lower Bogue to the Rubis gas station located at the Lower Bogue junction, in their annual “Walk for Hope” fundraiser.

‘Young Life’, an international nonprofit Christian outreach program, explained Island Director, Rev. Josette Joseph-Illan, with ministries serving in more than one hundred countries, has a mission of introducing adolescents to Jesus Christ and helping them grow in their faith. The ministry’s Walk For Hope fundraiser, said Rev. Illan, sees leaders, action team members, children/adolescents, and staff from around the world come together and walk to raise funds and awareness for the program.

Currently, she said, there are Young Life ministries in Nassau, Grand Bahama, The Berry Islands, and Eleuthera, and the mission of helping children to grow in faith is accomplished by praying for young people, going where children are to build personal relationships with them,

and providing fun and adventurous, lifechanging experiences.

Expanding on the ministry in Eleuthera, Rev. Illan, shared, “Eleuthera Young Life has grown to 3 clubs in the last two years with no end in sight! Through the faithfulness of dedicated

volunteer leaders in North Eleuthera High School, Spanish Wells/Russell Island and Harbour Island All Age School, children are coming face-to-face with Jesus and learning to walk with Him.”

She continued, “Their lives, families and communities are being changed,

and this is just the beginning of what we believe the Lord will do through Young Life on Eleuthera. Camp is a huge part of the success of the ministry and we are excited to host students for this incredible time again this year from June 21st to June 23rd, 2024.”

(Committee Chairperson), and Fernando Mejia (Caribbean Director).

GHFR donates ‘Jaws of Life’ hydraulic rescue tool to NE Fire Crew

During the first week of May, following a traffic accident, which left four men trapped in a car in North Eleuthera, the Governor’s Harbour Fire Rescue [GHFR] organization donated a ‘jaws of life’ [as they had two of them] to the volunteer fire group, based in Gene’s Bay - called the Berean Way Anabaptist Church [BWAC] Fire Department, which responds to fire and accident emergencies in the North Eleuthera area.

GHFR fire chief, Mr. Ricardo Pinder, explained that the donation of the ‘jaws of life’ was a critical one and all about saving lives, saying, “It is really too far for us to go to save a life, it is really too far... The reason why this happened is because we have had a couple of incidents [in the

north] recently... We gave the North Eleuthera fire department a pair of jaws of life, because we have been having to go all the way north to help people out of cars. So, it was much easier for us to give North Eleuthera a pair of jaws of life to help them in that area... It takes us an hour, to an hour and a half to get on scene. That is the reason why we gave them a pair of jaws of life - so they can respond more quickly.”

This is not the first partnership the two fire rescue groups have fostered, stated Mr. Pinder. Key training initiatives have also included the volunteer team from North Eleuthera, proving to be an advantage - with receiving volunteers already familiar with the use of the donated equipment. “Those

GHFR members, Deon Johnson and Kenneth Davis, stand with BWAC volunteers, Elijah Embury and Caleb Embury.

guys from Gene’s Bay were in the training sessions, along with the Governor’s Harbour Fire Rescue, and our Canada based facilitators ‘Firemen Without Borders’ group... They were also in that training exercise, so they have some knowledge of the use and operation of the ‘jaws of life’.” Fire Chief Pinder, added that the GHFR continues to also work with the ‘Men of Faith’ organization, based in Palmetto Point, who provided initial training to the Governor’s Harbour volunteers, and who also has a pair of ‘jaws of life’ in their life-saving arsenal of tools.

Young Life programs in Eleuthera are spearheaded by Rev. Josette Joseph-Illan (Island director), Sarah Starr

Above: Rev. Josette Joseph-Illan (Front right in blue), Young Life Ministry Island Director, poses with Young Life members as they take part in a ‘Walk For Hope’ fundraiser on Saturday, May 11th, 2024.

BREEF Awards Deep Creek Middle School Its 7th

Consecutive Eco-Schools Green Flag

Bradley Young.

One Eleuthera Foundation President, CEO Keyron Smith, assisted with the evaluation process. He said, “It’s wonderful to witness Deep Creek Middle School (DCMS) achieving their 7th green flag recertification with the eco-schools programme. The dedication and zeal of the students advocating for sustainability and environmental conservation, and implementing these practices within the school, is truly exceptional.”

Speaking about the special event, former DCMS parent and Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation’s (BREEF) Executive Director Casuarina McKinney-Lambert said, “DCMS students are a model for the country and the world, and they should be very proud of their achievements.”

Deep Creek Middle School (DCMS) in Deep Creek, South Eleuthera, earned its seventh consecutive EcoSchools Green Flag Award on Tuesday, the 7th of May 2024. The Green Flag Award is the highest award level a school can achieve and is awarded every two years to schools committed to excellence in environmental education and practice. During the recertification process, DCMS Eco-Committee students led the Green Flag assessment team on a tour of the DCMS campus and discussed their sustainability actions and environmental stewardship.

lutions for local environmental problems and sustainable development challenges in our communities.

“I’ve been eager to participate in Eco-Schools since I was six, I think we are doing a great thing because we are helping to protect wildlife and our native species,” said 7 th grader and Eco-club member Gino Guina.

Eco-Schools Bahamas is part of an international award programme developed in 1994 by the Foundation for Environmental Education. Eco-Schools is based on the work of student-led teams and recognizes schools for their achievements in Education for Sustainable Development and continuously improving the sustainability performance of the school and the wider community. EcoSchools engage the creativity of young people to find so-

“We want a positive change in our community, we want to see less litter, although we didn’t get everyone onboard, I’m happy that more people are aware of what the change can look like,” said Bria Allen, 8th grade DCMS student and Eco-club member.

“I started to care more when I realised that so many people were unaware of how harmful plastics can be to our environment, and I am determined to make a change,” said Aallieah Rolle, 8th grade DCMS student and Ecoclub member.

“We always come together to plan the projects, for this one, we have been making signs around the school and around town to encourage people to pick up their trash and not to litter,” said 7th grader and Eco-club member

According to DCMS’ principal and Eco-Schools Coordinator Chelle Marshall, “This year, we challenged ourselves to expand our Eco School Action Plan to our wider community, initially by conducting stakeholder discussions within the community last fall and then engaging with Island School and the Centre for Training and Innovation resources in the spring. We look forward to moving forward with informed initiatives for the remainder of this year and continuing next year.”

BREEF’s Education Coordinator and National Operator for the EcoSchools Bahamas Programme, Kevin Glinton stated, “On the 7th of November 2011, Deep Creek Middle School (DCMS) had the singular distinction of becoming the first school in the English-speaking Caribbean to receive the prestigious Green Flag, the top award of the Eco-Schools Programme Under their original school Eco-code, “DCMS can be green if we work as a TEAM,” DCMS continues to be a pacesetter in BREEF’s Eco-Schools Bahamas network.”

Eco-Schools is implemented in 73 countries by FEE member organisations and in 26 countries through International Schools. BREEF runs EcoSchools in The Bahamas. Schools interested in joining the Eco-Schools Bahamas programme can contact BREEF at 327-9000 or email: ecoschoolsbahamas@breef.org

Above: DCMS Green Award Renewal Ceremony.

Above: DCMS Eco-School Committee Members, Aallieah Rolle (L) and Bria Allen (R)

Above: DCMS 8th grade student, Lorenzo Larrimore gives tour of school garden.

Jimmy’s Celebrates Grand Opening of Governor’s Harbour Store

and

and CEO James ‘Jimmy’ Sands, who were on Eleuthera for the new store opening; they are pictures with Angela Moss from Nassau (far left) and Jimmy’s Eleuthera Island Manager Jacqui Hall.

Giving a lively kick-start to the weekend, Eleuthera residents enjoyed great music and even better flavours of Jimmy’s Wines and Spirits as the brand celebrated the grand opening of it’s Governor’s Harbour location on Thursday, April 18th, 2024.

Guests enjoyed a complimentary bar featuring Sands Beer, Triple B Malt, Cono Sur and Vina Maipo wines as well as signature cocktails made with Mount Gay Eclipse, Tito’s Vodka, Beefeater Gin, Disaronno and Disaronno Velvet, while the sounds of the New Vision Band pushed some to dance the night away.

The opening of the Governor’s Harbour location, across from CIBC First Caribbean, topped off a record year of openings for the brand in 2023 who now has eleven retail locations across four islands – a feat General Manager for Nassau and the Family Islands Gary Sands said should be celebrated.

“Jimmy’s has built a name for itself because we represent highly sought-after brands and sell them for great prices,” Sands said. “That, coupled with the importance we put on the customer’s in-store experience has resulted in all our locations thriving.”

“Central and South Eleuthera have welcomed us with open arms,” Jimmy’s Eleuthera Island Manager Jacqui Hall said, describing how receptive Eleutheran’s have been of the Jimmy’s brand.

“Everyone has been so excited and welcoming for our shop to open. The community has really welcomed us here. Trade customers are pleased we are here because Jimmy’s is the distributor for so many of the popular brands, including Sands Beer, Bud Light, Remy Martin, Tito’s Vodka, Fireball, Obikwa wine, Macallan whisky, Mount Gay rum, and Mionetto prosecco. The businesses also have a closer depot from which

to restock. Before, they’d have to source it from our store across from the North Eleuthera airport or wait for the mailboat to come from Nassau. Now they have a much closer location to shop from or even schedule for us to deliver it for no charge.”

Grand opening attendees were able to take advantage of an in-store sale while enjoying the opening festivities.

Last November, Jimmy’s held a soft opening for its Governors Harbour location, making it the second store on the island. Prior to this, the store’s North Eleuthera location, just across from the airport, serviced the whole island. Both locations service retail and business customers, deliveries, kegs, and are depot for the very important bottle return program.

Jimmy’s Sales Rep for Eleuthera, Anthony Johnson, said “for a number of years, my weekly run included visiting customers from Bannerman Town in the south to The Bluff in the north. As people from Eleuthera know, driving on our roads takes a toll on the body. With the addition of Jimmy’s store in Governor’s Harbour, they will be able to visit the customers in the south more frequently, even several times a week. That means those businesses should always have Sands, the truly Bahamian Beer.”

Manager of Retail Stores Phillippa Ferguson was also on hand for the momentous occasion on Thursday and said, “The customers in Eleuthera can expect the same great in-store experience at the two Jimmy’s on island.”

The Governors Harbour store is also part of Jimmy’s monthly wine-tasting series dubbed ‘Tasting of Wines from Around the World’. The series kicked off in April at six of the Jimmy’s locations. The next date in the tasting series is May 9; interested persons can follow Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits on social media or visit jwsbahamas.com to learn more.

(Photos are courtesy of Niecy K. Photography)

Pictured are General Manager for Nassau

the Family Islands Gary Sands (far right)

Guests at the opening enjoying a complimentary bar featuring Sands Beer, Triple B Malt, Cono Sur and Vina Maipo wines as well as signature cocktails made with Mount Gay Eclipse, Tito’s Vodka, Beefeater Gin, Disaronno and Disaronno Velvet.

Local ladies enjoying the opening of the Governor’s Harbour location across from CIBC First Caribbean, which topped off a record year of openings for the brand in 2023, it now has eleven retail locations across four islands.

2024 Eleuthera Business Outlook

phalted roadway as the estimated mileage to be rehauled. Two local companies, Nu View and Quick Fix, she reminded, had been contracted to prepare the base roads within the settlements. “We are well on our way. Anyone passing through Rock Sound, will see that we are in the process of setting up our asphalt plant... Once we have our equipment on the ground, we will be looking for operators, so there will be opportunity for trained persons in heavy equipment to apply for jobs. We will also be looking for general labourers.” She further stated that once works begin, the company was looking at a 30-month (2.5 years) timeframe for the roadworks to be completed. In answer to a question about start time, she responded that they were looking at the asphalt plant being commissioned around the final week in May 2024, and once that was done, they would start paving.

A business panel discussion followed with local businessman, Thomas Sands; Trade Commission Chairman, Philip Galanis; Doctors Hospital Health System (DHHS) CFO Dennis Deveaux; and Bahamas Striping COO, Vibert Williams in the hot seat (actually a comfortable couch setup on stage), answering questions, and talking about innovation, transformation and planning for economic growth and sustainability. Christel Sands-Feaste, Partner with Higgs & Johnson law firm moderated the session, directing discussion about the economic drivers of the growth on the island - dominated by tourism, trickling through as real estate investments, as well as foreign direct investment in developments and short term rental properties - all supported by the domestic economy circle of smaller businesses and services.

Joseph Gaskins, Regional Director of Pub-

lic Affairs with Disney Cruise Line, as part of the mid-morning lineup, presented on the variety and scope of employment opportunities available at DCL’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point project, their recruitment efforts to-date, and confirmed for the audience, that the property would be opening with an all-Bahamian leadership team, from Island Director, to every other manager on-site. The cruise port, he confirmed, was set to begin operations, with its first ships arriving in early June 2024.

A closer discussion on Tourism took place with a panel fielding guests from Pineapple Fields, Dean Spychalla; Squires Estate, Patrick Nolan; CTI’s The Retreat - Keyron Smith; and moderator Kerry Fountain, Executive Director with the Out Island Promotion Board. Panelists spoke about current trends, the unique aspects of the island, innovative promotion and marketing ideas for the Eleuthera product, and the importance of the sustainability approach to protect what makes the island as attractive and special as it is.

The following three presentations of the early afternoon gave several organizations on the island an opportunity to talk about their impact, plans and approach to responsibility in their operations in Eleuthera. It began with Keyron Smith, President and CEO of the One Eleuthera Foundation presenting on the organization’s programs, and the type of impact they have had throughout the island. Key principals of the proposed Sunset Estates & Marina project in Governor’s Harbour, JV Scott Blacquiere and Anya Ferguson, outlined the scope of their project. Then Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle, Executive Director with the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) spoke about their work and vision for the island’s national parks, including the Leon Levy Native

Plant Preserve, Seahorse National Park at Sweeting’s Pond, as well as efforts to secure additional acreage on Harbour Island, to add to a small acreage already held by the BNTwith a future vision of developing a park space there.

The final panel discussion centered on current developments and emerging trends impacting the growth and sustainability of the real estate industry on Eleuthera. Panel guests included, John Christie of H.G. Christie Realty; Mark Hussey of Bahamas Sothebys International Realty; and Serena Mayers, Officer in Charge of the Bank of the Bahamas Eleuthera Branch.

On Friday morning in Harbour Island, Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon. I. Chester Cooper, took the time to address the business community, as the first presenter, where he expounded on foreign direct investments, as well as plans for the North Eleuthera airport, and the now completed temporary upgrades. The mixed presentation and panel discussion format continued during day two, with panel group discussions on infrastructure, tourism, business, and real estate. Participants were mainly focused on issues particular to North Eleuthera, Spanish Wells and Harbour Island.

Maxwell Daniels of BPL was the lone representative sitting on the infrastructure panel, taking questions again about electricity outages and capacity in Harbour Island. Talking about what demand for electricity looked like in the different areas of Eleuthera (which he said has an installed capacity currently of about 30 Megawatts in total), he informed that Harbour Island demand now peaks at about 5.5 Megawatts, with temporary generation of 6 Megawatts installed. In Hatchet Bay he said there are 15 Megawatts installed, and another 10 Megawatts in Rock Sound.

Harbour Island’s tourism panel, included Ben Simmons of The Other Side; Lee Prosenjak of Valentines Resort & Marina; Henry Rolle of The Rock House; and Chorten Wangyel of Coral Sandsagain moderated by Kerry Fountain. The participants spoke about the unique challenges experienced in growing their properties and businesses, keys to management and the balance of human resources in their island market, and models of ensuring profitability in their operations.

The business and real estate panels, also discussed building their businesses, overcoming barriers peculiar to Harbour Island and taking advantage of current opportunities. Felicia Higgs of Higgs Construction; and Leroy Dames of Commonwealth Bank, fielded questions on the business panel. Natasha Shepherd of Dunmore Realty; James Malcolm of BPG Real Estate; and Robert Arthur of Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty rounded out the real estate panel, discussing how they meet the needs of today’s investors and tenants and revealed the areas

Shown: Businessman Thomas Sands at the podium, moderating a panel discussion on real estate at the 2024 Eleuthera Business Outlook event on day one in Rock Sound, as the audience looks on, with guests, Serena Mayers, Mark Hussey and John Christie.

of North Eleuthera, Harbour and Spanish Wells that were trending in terms of demand by buyers into the island market.

Some of the individual presentations included a talk on the drivers that went into building the current economy of Spanish Wells. Robert Roberts, Chief Councillor for the Spanish Wells Local Government District Council and one of the first participants in the fishing co-operatives that revolutionized that island’s local industry, shared details on its history

Picture This !

and evolution to date.

Chantel Sands, Head of SME and Family Island Innovations with Aliv Bahamas Business spoke about the technology being offered by the company that businesses in Eleuthera could take advantage of to grow. Ryan Austin, Co-founder of Payroll App, also presented on payroll best practices and how the app could assist growing businesses. Wrapping up the sessions in Harbour Island, were Dorlan Curtis Jr., of Foodpost Farms who spoke

about his operation and how it was contributing to food security in Eleuthera. William Simmons of the Harbour Island Green School, talked about sustainability, and his school’s thrust to teach these principles to the next generation - and Keyron Smith of One Eleuthera Foundation spoke on his organization’s activities in the north, and their role in training for success at the Center For Training & Innovation (HITS) in Harbour Island.

Local - RBPF Spanish Wells canvass community in Walk-about

On Thursday, May 2nd, 2024 officers from the North Eleuthera District led by Officer-in-Charge Superintendent Knowles, conducted special patrols in Spanish Wells, encompassing Leo Pinder Drive and the Harbourside Drive areas. Officers also conducted a walk-about thoughout the community as they canvassed the various homes in need doorto-door. The team lead by Supt. Knowles paid special attention to the elderly in the community, offering them a special surprise care box package of grocery items. Supt. Knowles greeted all the residents and conveyed well wishes on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ch/Supt. Henfield O/C of Eleuthera and the entire Eleuthera Division. Residents were said to have expressed thanks and appreciation for the kind gesture.

Above: Kerry Fountain, Executive Director at the Out Islands Promotion Board (far left), moderating a hotel/tourism panel discussion, with guests, Lee Prosenjak, Ben Simmons, Chorten Wangyel, and Henry Rolle on stage in an interactive session with the audience of business stakeholders at the Valentines Resort and Marina in Harbour Island on day two of the 2024 Eleuthera Business Outlook..

North Eleuthera Mothers Celebrated at Pre-Mother’s Day Luncheon

Tingum Village Hotel on Harbour Island, was host to a colourful Mother’s Day Honouree Extravaganza on Saturday afternoon, May 11th, 2024 held by member of parliament for North Eleuthera, and deputy speaker of the House of Assembly, Mr. Sylvanus Petty, which saw eight mothers - one chosen from each major township in North Eleuthera - honoured for the unique mark they had made within their communities.

The luncheon gathering brought together mothers from throughout North Eleuthera, with guests also joining from Governor’s Harbour, enjoying food, drinks, and loads of prizes and surprises. Honouree mothers, who included: Ms. Shirley Mackey of Upper Bogue; Ms. Lorna Symonette of The Current; Mrs. Virginia McDonald of Current Island; Ms. Gladys Thompson of Gregory Town; Mrs. Sylvia Bain-Moss of Lower Bogue; Mrs. Lorna Major of Harbour Island; Mrs. Delia Sturrup of Spanish Wells; and Mrs. Pandora Pedican of The Bluff, were presented with a special plaque detailing the occasion, as well as a gift of a 32” television, courtesy of the member of parliament.

Many other gifts and prizes were distributed during the afternoon, in a combination of fun door prize announcements, trivia challenges, and

special recognitions - like that of the oldest mother, youngest mother, and the mother present with the most children, along with others.

Special guest and patroness, who took time out to personally attend, and take part in the presentation activities during the Mother’s Day gathering was, Lady Ann Marie Davis, spouse of Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis. In an address to the crowd of well-dressed mothers, she highlighted the significance of the role, sacrifices, accomplishments and unique status of mothers both in Bahamian families and society as a whole.

Commenting on how she valued the opportunity to spend the afternoon with mothers in North Eleuthera, Lady Davis, said, “I am happy to be able to share in this moment... I like recognizing people who have made this country what it is today... to be recognized, to be seen, to be honoured - to make them happier, and to make them feel even more important. If my presence can do that, I am more than happy to do that here today.”

A special entertainment feature of the afternoon were the famed ‘Rahming Brothers’ acapella quartet, who serenaded with a bevy of their most well-loved renditions, including ‘Who’s gonna fill those shoes?’, and

‘We’ve come this far by faith’. MP Petty, who was accompanied by both his wife and his mother, in his remarks during the luncheon, expressed his appreciation for all mothers, and mother figures - highlighting the many special people, who take on the role in our lives - citing, “...Adoptive moms, biological moms, foster moms, aunts, single moms, godmothers, - all the ladies who when you think of Mother’s Day - you acknowledge that they have made an impact on my life. Giving flowers is always

a good idea, but I hope that on this Mother’s Day, we can recommit to doing more for our mothers, with deeds that match our words. Let’s give our mothers the respect they deserve... Let’s make sure we show gratitude and appreciation throughout the year. No one deserves that more than our moms.”

Above: Special mothers from each of the townships in North Eleuthera were chosen to be honoured and showered with gifts, during a pre-mother’s day luncheon hosted by NE MP Mr. Sylvanus Petty (center right). Lady Ann Marie Davis (center in blue), spouse of Prime Minister Philip Davis was patroness of the event and attended the extravaganza hosted for North Eleuthera moms.

Pictured: Famous Bahamian acapella quartet, The Rahming Brothers, were guest performers at the luncheon hosted at Tingum Village Resort. They treated the appreciative audience to a bevy of serenades.

Calendar Event Markers!

Important

Note: All event dates and information are subject to change. Please communicate with the contact person provided for updated information before the actual event.

February to December - Bush Tea Tours - This activity, at the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, located on the Banks Road, Governor’s Harbour, is great for people who enjoy learning about the various medicinal plants in The Bahamas. It is also a great way to ensure that the generations to come will still be able to experience ‘Bush Teas’ as natural healing remedies.

(Contact: Ms. Lakeisha Wallace, The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve(242) 332-3831, lwallace@bnt.bs)

June 6th - 9th , 2024 Annual Deep Creek Conch Festival Deep Creek Locals and visitors get the opportunity to enjoy a variety of dishes prepared using conch. This is also an enjoyable time for the locals and visitors to come out and

enjoy the festivities.

(Contact: Ms. Jessica Burrows, (242)556-1365, jessicaseymourburrows@hotmail.com)

June 7th - 8th, 2024 - 35th Annual Pineapple Festival - Gregory Town, Eleuthera is the birthplace of the sweetest pineapples in The Bahamas. Each year it is celebrated as an event to bring out the local farmers, artisans, and vendors to display their locally crafted pineapple dishes, drinks, and desserts.

(Contact: Mrs. Glenda Johnson-Ingraham, (242) 332-3868, gjjingraham@ bahamas.com)

July 4th - 10th, 2024 - Savannah Sound Homecoming - Savannah Sound - This event brings residents and visitors together to experience Bahamian culture and activities leading up to The Bahamas Independence. Funds raised from the event assist with community initiatives.

(Contact: Ms. Lakeisha Wallace, (242) 807-3042, keisha_wallace@live.com)

July 8th - 13th, 2024 - The Bluff Homecoming Festival - The Bluff - This event will bring back many descendants of The Bluff who have been away for a long period of time. This is also a way for locals to enjoy good company, great food, games, and down-home music and entertainment.

(Contact: Ms. Pachara Carroll, (242) 558-0949, thebluffdevelopmentcommittee@gmail.com)

July 10th - 14th, 2024 - Hauler’s Fishing Festival - Green Castle - This event brings together family and friends to the picturesque settlement of Green Castle every year on Independence Day. The highlight of this event is the tradition of hauling the most Jack Fish.

(Contact: Mr. Selvin Richards, (242) 558-3418)

July 31st - August 5th, 2024 - Back To The Bay - Tarpum Bay - The Tarpum Bay festival is a way to encourage descendants to come

First Winner of the Mikee S. Foundation Essay Competition AnnouncedKaylia Bartley

The family of Michael Saunders are celebrating his life through the establishment of an annual Healthcare Scholarship award to students from low-income families that are interested in pursuing careers in the medical field, especially becoming a medical physician.

Mr. Saunders was born to Dorothy Saunders in Mars Bay, Andros in 1961. He was a man of God and a family man. He valued his friends, his country and anyone he came in contact with. Improving the quality of healthcare in the Bahamas was a big priority for him.

together and have an enjoyable time with family, friends, and visitors in the area. There is live entertainment, junkanoo rush-outs, and delicious native dishes and items on sale.

(Contact: Mr. Lawrence Carey, (242) 470-3900, OR Ms. Liz Hunt (242) 809-3000)

August 1st - 5th, 2024 - Bay Fest - Hatchet Bay - The residents of Hatchet Bay, Eleuthera come together to raise funds to assist the settlement with upgrades and community activities for the residents.

(Contact: Mr. Ocarvio Rolle, (242) 802-0805)

August 2nd - 3rd, 2024 - Bannerman Town Festival - Bannerman Town Residents and visitors unite in the beautiful settlement of Bannerman Town, as they enjoy live music, local talent, cultural activities as well as Bahamian food and drinks.

(Contact: Mr. George Bullard, (242)470-2177)

The award will allow the student to travel to Minnesota to shadow Dr. Inell Rosario, Michael’s sister, ‘a board-certified ear, nose, throat and sleep doctor’.

The student will get to experience the life of a physician firsthand with an all-expense paid 5-7 days trip to Minnesota inclusive of lodging and meals. The family of Michael Saunders extend their support and congratulations to the first recipient, Kaylia Bartley and look forward to many students who will apply in the future for the scholarship annually. One of the criteria for the successful candidates is to show their desire to help blaze the trail and improve access to healthcare in the Bahamas!

Select police reportS, Shared by the rbpF locally

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 April, Officers conducted Thirteen (13) traffic checks which resulted in motorists being cited for approximately seventy six (76) traffic offences. In addition, a number of special operations were conducted; as a result, Officers have taken into custody Seventy-seven (77) persons in separate incidents for various criminal offences. Of that number, Fifty-four (54) of those persons were charged. Officers shared information on Crime Prevention at twelve (12) speaking engagements at local schools and hosted Seven (7) youth related activities or other special initiatives.

Drug Arrests

• Drug Arrest : On Wednesday 3rd April 2024 at about 10:43 am while on mobile patrol Officers arrested a 20 yr old male of Tarpum Bay after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was processed and charged.

• Drug Arrest: At about 2:13 pm on Tuesday 16th April 2024 Officers acting on information while at the Rock Sound Public Dock observed several suspicious, The Officers while searching the boxes found two large metal sealed cans containing suspected marijuana. As a result, a 52 yr old male of Savannah Sound and a 57 yr old male of Bannerman Town were arrested for possession of dangerous drugs. They were subsequently processed and charged.

• Unlicensed Firearm & Ammunition & Drug Arrest : At about 6:30am on Wednesday 24th April 2024 Officers acting on information, executed a search warrant on the residence a 30 yr old male of Hatchet Bay. As a result of the search officers discovered a quantity of suspect marijuana along with a 9mm Black/Silver Taurus pistol, with one magazine containing (12) live rounds of ammunition. As a result, the suspect was arrested along with members of his household they were processed and charged.

• Possession of Ammunition with Intent to Supply & Drug Arrest

At about 7:00 am on Tuesday 30th April 2024, Officers acting on information executed a search warrant on the residence of 29 yr old male of The Bluff, Eleuthera.

• While searching a western bedroom officers found one Dewalt Tool Bag containing the following (98) Rounds of .38spl. Ammunition (47) Rounds of .40 Ammunition (75) Rounds of .380 Ammunition

AdditionAlly, while seARching An eAsteRn living Room AReA officeRs found one cleAR compRessed plAstic wRApping And one loose plAstic wRApping contAining A quAntity of suspected mARijuAnA As A Result the suspect Along with An Adult mAle occupAnt wAs ARRested And chARged

• Drug Arrest : On Friday 12th April, 2024 at 7:16 am, Officers executed a search warrant on the residence of an adult male at Barracks Street, Harbour Island. During the search Officers found a quantity of suspect marijuana, as a result the suspect was arrested along with an adult female and an adult male occupant. They were all charged.

• Stealing by reason of Service: on wednesdAy 3Rd ApRil 2024 sometime ARound 6:00 p m A 31 yR old femAle cAme into the Rock sound police stAtion to RepoRt thAt ARRAigned with A femAle oveR the inteRnet to puRchAse A 2007 silveR hondA AccoRd she hAs pAid A totAl of thRee thousAnd eight hundRed dollARs. the lAdy hAd pRomised thAt the vehicle would be in eleutheRA ApRil 2nd, 2024. to dAte the vehicle hAs not ARRived to the islAnd And she cAnnot ReAch the lAdy police Action Requested in this mAtteR

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 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 RepoRts pRovided by np Rbpf

• **POLICE CONFISCATE DANGEROUS DRUGS- SUSPECTS ARRESTED**

police on the islAnd of eleutheRA successfully seized five (5) pounds of suspected mARijuAnA, woRth An estimAted $5,000.00, leAding to the ARRest of two Adult mAles pReliminARy RepoRts indicAte thAt shoRtly AfteR 2:00 p m., on tuesdAy, ApRil 16, 2024, officeRs fRom the Rock sound police stAtion, Acting on infoRmAtion And ARmed with A seARch wARRAnt while At the public dock locAted in Rock sound, conducted seARches of multiple fReight pAckAges And discoveRed they contAined dAngeRous dRugs, leAding to the subsequent ARRest of the men involved investigAtions continue

• **ELEUTHERA: OPERATION YIELDS POSITIVE RESULTS**

police on the islAnd of eleutheRA, in collAboRAtion with the bAhAmAs depARtment of immigRAtion, And bAhAmAs customs depARtment conducted A joint opeRAtion titled “opeRAtion 2 wheeleRs “on sundAy 21st ApRil, 2024. the opeRAtion specificAlly tARgeted pRolific offendeRs, AReAs known foR cRiminAl Activity, “hot spots,” motoRists who violAted tRAffic lAws, illegAl immigRAnts, And inspections foR undocumented customs items duRing the opeRAtion, officeRs ARRested eight (8) individuAls foR vARious offences, including possession of dAngeRous dRugs And immigRAtion puRposes. AdditionAlly, officeRs inspected one hundRed-fifty (150) vehicles.

police wish to Remind the public thAt these opeRAtions will be ongoing thRoughout the islAnds of the bAhAmAs; hence, the public is encouRAged to AdheRe to All lAws goveRning the commonweAlth of the bAhAmAs, As Any violAtions will leAd to individuAls being plAced befoRe the mAgistRAte’s couRt

• **SUSPECTS ARRESTED AFTER FIREARM & DRUG CONFISCATION**

five Adults hAve been tAken into custody by officeRs on the islAnd of eleutheRA AfteR A fiReARm contAining Ammunition And suspected mARijuAnA weRe discoveRed in theiR home. AccoRding to initiAl RepoRts, ARound 6:30 A m., on wednesdAy 24th ApRil, 2024 officeRs fRom the flying squAd unit, Acting on infoRmAtion, ARRived At A Residence in white town-hAtchet bAy, wheRe they executed A seARch wARRAnt At the Residence, leAding to the discoveRy of the items And, subsequently, ARResting the occupAnts, two (2) Adult mAles And thRee (3) Adult femAles. At pResent, the weight And vAlue of the suspected mARijuAnA ARe unknown investigAtions into this mAtteR continues

• **ELEUTHERA: POLICE INVESTIGATE TRAFFIC FATALITY**

police on the islAnd of eleutheRA ARe investigAting A fAtAl cRAsh thAt clAimed the lives of two Adult mAles the Accident occuRRed ARound 1:00 A m on sAtuRdAy 27th ApRil, 2024. AccoRding to initiAl RepoRts, the fouR occupAnts of A motoR vehicle weRe tRAveling noRth Along queen’s highwAy in uppeR bogue-eleutheRA, just noRth of the glAss-window bRidge, when the dRiveR RepoRtedly lost contRol of the vehicle And cRAshed into A tRee the vehicle exploded upon impAct, And the two ReAR-seAt pAssengeRs escAped; howeveR, the dRiveR And fRont-seAt pAssengeR weRe not successful the islAnd’s volunteeR fiRe seRvices Responded; they extinguished the blAze And discoveRed the chARRed RemAins of the dRiveR And fRont seAt pAssengeR the ReAR-seAt pAssengeRs weRe AiRlifted to new pRovidence foR fuRtheR medicAl Assessment And cARe the seRious Accident ReconstRuction teAm (sARt) fRom the tRAffic division in new pRovidence tRAvelled to the islAnd to conduct fuRtheR investigAtions into this fAtAl cRAsh

• **ELEUTHERA: OPERATION YIELDS

POSITIVE RESULTS**

on sAtuRdAy 27th ApRil, 2024, police on the islAnd of eleutheRA continued theiR islAnd-wide opeRAtion known

As “peRsistent pRessuRe.” the opeRAtion specificAlly tARgeted pRolific offendeRs And motoRists who fAiled to AdheRe to tRAffic lAws duRing the opeRAtion, officeRs ARRested eight (8) individuAls foR possession of dAngeRous dRugs; AdditionAlly, officeRs inspected foRty-five (45) vehicles, ensuRing motoRists weRe in compliAnce with the RoAd tRAffic Rules And RegulAtions police wish to Remind the public thAt these opeRAtions will be ongoing thRoughout the islAnds of the bAhAmAs; hence, the public is encouRAged to AdheRe to All lAws goveRning the commonweAlth of the bAhAmAs, As Any violAtions will leAd to individuAls being plAced befoRe the mAgistRAte’s couRt

• ** MALE ARRESTED FOR AMMUNITION & DRUG POSSESSION**

officeRs on the islAnd of eleutheRA hAve tAken A 29-yeAR-old mAle into custody AfteR discoveRing A quAntity of AssoRted Ammunition, And suspected mARijuAnA in his home. AccoRding to initiAl RepoRts, shoRtly AfteR 7:00 A m on tuesdAy, ApRil 30th, 2024 officeRs fRom the fly squAd unit, Acting on infoRmAtion, executed A seARch wARRAnt At A Residence in bluff-eleutheRA, Resulting in the discoveRy of moRe thAn two hundRed (200) Rounds of Ammunition And 1.5 pounds of suspected mARijuAnA woRth An estimAted $1,500.00, And the subsequent ARRest of the Adult mAle occupAnt. AdditionAlly, officeRs seized A sum of cAsh in AssoRted cuRRencies, suspected to be the pRoceeds of A cRime investigAtions into this mAtteR continue.

• ** POLICE INVESTIGATE ALLEGED DROWNING**

police in eleutheRA ARe investigAting An Alleged dRowning of A 39-yeAR-old mAle Resident on fRidAy 17th mAy, 2024. pReliminARy RepoRts indicAte thAt shoRtly befoRe 6:00 p m., police weRe notified thAt the victim, while At the pAlmetto point homecoming site, fell oveRboARd fRom the ‘floAting bAR’. he wAs RetRieved fRom the wAteR in An unResponsive stAte; howeveR, cpR wAs AdministeRed until his ARRivAl At the pAlmetto point clinic, wheRe he wAs exAmined by the medicAl doctoR, who found no signs of life And pRonounced him deAd the victim wAs identified As joslyn pieRRe of pAlmetto point. An Autopsy will be peRfoRmed to deteRmine the exAct cAuse of deAth investigAtions continue

P O LICE C O NTACT N u M BERS

• HeadQuarters (GH) 332-3500

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

• O/C Governor’s Harbour 332-2723

• Gov.Harb. Airport Station 332-2323

• Deep Creek Station 334-8207

• Tarpum Bay Station 334-4033

• Rock Sound Station 334-2244

• Rock Sound Sgt. Office 334-2212

• Rock Sound Airport Stn 334-2052

• L. Bogue (Airport) 335-1208

• Harbour Island Station 333-2111

• O/C Harbour Island 333-2327

• Spanish Wells Station 333-4030

• Gregory Town Station 335-5322 Hatchet Bay Station 335-0086

SPINY LOBSTER AQUACULTURE IS TAKING OFF

Written by: Denee Rankine,

The crawfish fishery is now closed after another bountiful season, but work to create a crawfish aquaculture operation on Eleuthera is moving ahead at pace. Based at The Island School’s Cape Eleuthera Institute, this project aims to work with community members to build a nursery facility for aquaculture of this kind.

Since our last update in November 2023, the lobster team at the Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI) has been successfully harvesting and raising post-larval lobsters in our nursery facility. As a reminder of what this process looks like, local artisans are con-

of deployment. We then pay them for each of the baby lobsters they bring in.

Since lobsters have a very low survival rate of about three percent in the wild from their postlarval stages, our work has the potential to boost wild stocks as well as kick-start crawfish farming. In the past year, the data that we’ve collected shows that we have boosted the survival rate by nearly sixty percent through rearing in the wet lab, which will allow us to support stock enhancement by reintroducing late juvenile lobsters into wild habitats. Once the lobsters are bigger, their survival rate increases dramatically, as they are better able to fight off predators.

In the very near future, we are looking at trial-

tracted to produce collector devices that attract tiny crawfish larvae. These collectors are made from galvanized wire mesh, sisal fibers sourced from Cat Island, hog rings, sisal rope, and galvanized coil chain.

The collectors are placed in different areas by local fishers assisting in the collection of post-larval lobsters, for grow-out in the CEI wet lab. Experienced fishermen, such as Ernest Gomez and his partner, Willis, have begun the process of deploying (as well as harvesting) from their very own collectors that are used to supply CEI with lobsters after two months

ing sea cages, provided by one of our partners, University of Exeter, to test how effective it would be to grow spiny lobsters in these enclosures before reintroducing them to wild habitats. The idea behind these cages is that they will be low maintenance, minimizing the need for continuous feeding and monitoring. This would be made possible by biofouling, which is the buildup of algae and additional plant and animal species on a wet surface. Again these are low-tech devices that could be used by fishers or anyone in the community who is interested.

If you’d like to get involved, please contact us through our website: (ceibahamas.org).

Pictured is Caritta Butler, of Deep Creek, attaching sisal fibers to wire mesh.

Pictured are Ernest Gomez and Willis, local fishermen, deploying collectors.

Cape Eleuthera Institute

Page. 10 BTVI in Green Castle

He emphasized the advantage this would now give to prospective students to gain valuable technical and vocation skills and careers training, as well as businesses and residents in Eleuthera, who would now have access to a larger pool of skilled employees, and trained tradesmen and women in a variety of fields.

Following Minister Sweeting, Education Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin in her speech, commented, “This administration has determined that it will make a primary thrust for technical and vocational education in this country. One, because of the global importance of technical education for building skills and grasping the economy. And, secondly in our own country, because of the skills gap that we have, which has been talked about, reported on, studied, and analyzed for more than 20 years.”

She continued, “So, what we are seeing being rolled out and demonstrated today is a commitment to building capacity in this nation, so that our young people can

In The Photos: (top) Minister Clay Sweeting with Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin along with Ministry of Education and BTVI Officials during the opening ceremony at the new facility in Green Castle. (middle) The cutting of the ceremonial ribbon by Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin, and Minister Clay Sweeting as BTVI president Dr. Linda Davis, and Housing Minister Keith Bell, look on. (right) The audience of community members shown as BTVI president Dr. Linda Davis, welcomes them to the opening ceremony, held on Thursday, April 18th.

participate in this economy, and not sit on the sidelines and watch as third parties come in and participate, because it is said we do not have the ability or the capacity. So, today, this is intentional - not by accident. The member of parliament advocated, BTVI understands it, and the government is committed to it. This is to allow our young people to come to this facility and build capacity.”

The minister also informed that dual enrollment opportunities would be made available for students still in high school on the island, through their Career and Technical Education program coordinators.

A brief dedication and ribbon cutting followed the officials’ remarks, as part of the opening ceremony, along with the unveiling of the official opening plaque on the main building. Those in attendance were then invited to tour the newly refurbished facility.

For further information about BTVI in Eleuthera, visit online at - (https://btvi.edu. bs) or contact: (242) 502-6300.

ALIV Mother’s Day

Initiative

ALIV extended a Happy Mother’s Day, wishing all moms a day filled with love, joy, and appreciation, saying, “To all the incredible moms in the ALIV family and our nation - Your love, strength, and dedication inspire us every day.” To celebrate moms at ALIV on Mother’s Day, the company showed a little extra love to all the amazing moms in the ALIV family. They also featured special moms in Nassau, Freeport, and Eleuthera, gifting them with flowers and a sing-a-gram. ALIV’s Ashley Webb, Digital Specialist, explained, “We did this initiative because we value and recognize the significant role mothers play, not just as customers but as individuals contributing to our community. By recognizing and honouring them, we want to demonstrate our commitment to building meaningful connections beyond just providing a service.” In Eleuthera, Assistant Superintendent (ASP) Alexandria Albury, on Thursday, May 9th, 2024, was the special mom recognized by ALIV. Pictured (L-R): Wanda Bissainthe, ALIV representative with ASP Alexandria Albury..

2024 Tim’s Refrigeration Tennis Tournament in its 17th Year deemed another success!

Tennis enthusiasts from Eleuthera, Abaco, Nassau, and Harbour Island all convened at the Knowles Tennis Courts in Palmetto Point on Saturday, April 20th and Sunday, April 21st for the 17th Annual Tim’s Refrigeration Eleuthera Doubles Tournament.

Hartie ‘Artie’ Johnson, tournament director and coach shared that the support locally and from the other islands came together to make the tournament a big success. Tournament sponsor, as well as its namesake, Mr. Tim Dames took part in this year’s competition, as he has in previous years.

Tournament participants duked it out in ladies open doubles, men’s open doubles, as well as in a mixed doubles category.

Winners of the 17th Annual Tim’s Refrigeration Eleuthera Doubles Tennis tournament in the men’s category, wereBobby Mullarkey and Matthew Pryor. They were followed

by runners up - sponsor Tim Dames and Eugene Gibson, and consolation (third place) winners - Roy Rivera and Joey Richards (not shown in the photo).

Women’s category winners of the 17th Annual Tim’s Refrigeration Eleuthera Doubles Tennis tournament, were - Cameel McDonald and Makala McDonald. Hot on their heels in the runners up position were Laura Paine (in her first tournament) and Tracie Penfound (not pictured). Consolation winners were - Michelle Walker and Caitlyn Walker. (who left before the trophy presentatión)

The mixed doubles category were dominated by overall winners, Cameel McDonald and Abishai Adderley, followed by runnersup Makala McDonald and Clenardo Davis.

Tourney director, Mr. Hartie ‘Artie’ Johnson expressed thanks to the many who played a part in bringing the 17th Annual Tim’s Refrigeration Eleu-

with coach and tournament director Artie Johnson and tournament sponsor Tim Dames.

thera Doubles Tennis tournament to a successful finish - including the participants, tournament sponsor Mr. Tim Dames and his doubles partner Eugene Gibson, longtime volunteer organizer Mrs. Elva Nixon, all the

OPM, Government Agencies Enhance Hurricane Preparedness Efforts

(Prime Minister Hosts First of Year-Round, Monthly Disaster Risk Meetings)

Nassau, The Bahamas – With Hurricane Season approaching, the Office of the Prime Minister ramped up national disaster preparedness efforts, recently convening relevant government agencies in the first of monthly meetings to better track progress on disaster preparedness across The Bahamas.

The Prime Minister’s Monthly Disaster Preparedness Meeting brought together representatives from a broad cross-section of government including the Prime Minister’s Delivery Unit, Ministry of Disaster Risk Management, Ministry for Grand Bahama, Disaster Reconstruction Authority (DRA), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Depart-

ment of Family Island Affairs, and Department of Social Services.

The meeting prioritized Family Island disaster management planning, particularly training and equipping Family Island Administrators to operate Emergency Operating Centres and disaster management plans – an exercise currently well underway. The meeting also updated the Prime Minister on shelter services and relief supplies and distribution. Subsequent meetings will cycle through a comprehensive array of crucial disaster management topics from communications and health services, to transportation and public utilities.

The meeting comes as a part of broader efforts to evaluate and streamline disaster risk management, in line with the Prime Minister’s focus to enhance the nation’s climate resilience and adaptation.

children who came out to help - including junior tournament director Taryn Lambert, and Mr. and Mrs. Elvisca Brown - who kept everyone, well fed.

As the country counts down to Hurricane Season the Office of the Prime Minister urges all Bahamians to begin preparing their businesses, homes, and households for the upcoming hurricane season. For more resources on how you can prepare go to: https://www.dra.gov.

bs/disaster-supply-kit-checklist/

Source:OPM

Mens Doubles Winners - Bobby Mullarkey and Matthew Pryor

Paint party held in honour of long time visitor, American Artist, Donna Allen, at the Haynes Library Grounds

Long time friends of american artist, Donna Allen, and family members visiting Eleuthera, got together in the garden at the Haynes Library in Governor’s Harbour on Monday, April 8th, 2024, for a ‘Going Away’ paint party, in honour of the artist, who while visiting the island each year for forty years, also gave back, in the way that she could.

Althea Willie, head librarian at the Haynes touted Donna’s commitment to holding weekly art classes for both adults and children for many years at the historic library, and touching many lives in a colourful way, saying, “She will be missed.”

Local business owner, and civic leader in the Central Eleuthera community, Mrs. Juanita Pinder, was present at the relaxed farewell soiree, and commented about Donna, “I’ve known Donna for many, many years, coming in to the store at Office General, looking for paints and supplies for her art projects that she worked on with people at the library - visitors as well as second home owners and locals, who joined her on a weekly basis. Now we are so sad that she is leaving us. She is no longer going to be here. So, that is going to be a void. She has been very instrumental in helping to keep the creative side of this library going. I want to say thanks to her for the part she has played all these years... Thank you, Donna!”

Donna Maria Allen, sharing a bit about her story and how she came to spend so much time on the island, shared, “I came here about 40 years ago, and invested in some land in Savannah Sound. 100 acres there. But I’ve never built a house here. I’ve always rented. I’ve spent most of my time in Palmetto Point... coming in the winter for about six months. And then I’ve been doing art classes here at the library for years, since it reopened practically. I did start with the kids, and then I did both kids and adults. Then I gave up the children, and did classes with just the adults, “ laughed Donna, saying it had become a bit too much for her.

She continued, “I have worked for years, raising money to help the library, to get it going and other than that I paint my pictures, go to the beach, and do my thing.”

Hailing from Martha’s Vineyard in the U.S., Donna said she came to Eleuthera originally with a friend, “He found property here, and I invested in the property in Savannah Sound. That was the reason to come, and I just kept coming.” The return now to Martha’s Vineyard, said Donna, now fully retired, was not wanting to spend the winters alone. As she said this, her daughter, niece and other visiting family members to Eleuthera, surrounded her for a family photo.

Orlandria Pinder of Eleuthera - New MOTIA 2024 National Junior Minister of Tourism

Ministry of Tourism executives congratulated and welcomed the new National Junior Minister of Tourism, Orlandria Pinder of Central Eleuthera High School, who stated that she looked forward to representing her island, and The Bahamas. The 2024 Junior Minister of Tourism Speech Competition Finals event was held on May 2nd, 2024 at Bahamas Harvest West Campus, University Drive -- to the theme, ‘Digital Transformation of Tourism: Sustaining a Multi-Island Destina-

tion.’ Through the opportunity to work with the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation (MOTIA) young winners can engage with the Minister and executives, and are able to see a day in the life of the Ministry and represent The Bahamas on the world stage, said MOTIA Director General Latia Duncombe. (BIS Photos/Kemuel Stubbs)

Thursday, May 2nd at Bahamas Harvest West Campus John F.Kennedy Drive, The Ministry of Tourism,Investments & Aviation 2024 Junior Minister of Tourism Speech Competition Finals, “Digital Transformation of Tourism Sustaining a Multi-Island Destination”. (BIS Photos/Kemuel Stubbs)

Above: Friends from Eleuthera and visiting family celebrating on the lawn at the Haynes Library with artist Donna Allen (standing center in green).

MOTIA New Junior Minister of Tourism Orlandria Pinder of Central Eleuthera High, along with MOTIA Executives. (BIS Photos/Kemuel Stubbs)

2024 National E. Clement Bethel Arts Festival

Adjudicators traverse schools across Eleuthera

A panel of judges were in Eleuthera for four days, from May 6th, until May 9th, 2024 visiting communities and schools from across The Eleutheras, for the 65th Annual E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival Adjudications on the island. The adjudication team, made up of experts from various fields of the Arts, included; Dr. Dionne Cunningham, Mr. Oscar Dean (music - instrumental), Ms. Ivona Gaitor (art), Felicia Rolle (drama), Ricardo Christie (dance), Adrian Archer (music adjudicator - vocal and choir), Portia Sands - Assistant Director of Culture, Sonovia Pierre - Organizing Secretary for the E. Clement Bethel Arts Festival, and Abby Smith, Cultural Affairs Officer (visual photography).

The group began in North Eleuthera on Monday, May 6th, where they hosted performances from the

Laura L. Anderson primary school and the North Eleuthera high school at the high school campus, moving on to Spanish Wells on day two. The judges stopped first in to the Wellington Preparatory school before heading to the Methodist church facility on the island to view performances from students at the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age school.

Photojournalist, Eric Rose, who captured a number of the festival performances across the island, described the afternoon session selections by Samuel Guy Pinder All Age as dazzling, with musical, dance and dramatic performances. Of note, he said, were piano playing, instrumental ensembles, a singing duet, and an original poem about Spanish Wells.

Day three in Eleuthera took the National Arts Festival judges to P42

On this page: Students from the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School perform in various forms of music, vocals and dance, for adjudicators from the 65th Annual E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival, who were in Eleuthera for four days, from May 6th until May 9th, 2024, visiting schools and community centers throughout the island.

South Eleuthera, where they witnessed renditions from students at Deep Creek primary, Wemyss Bight primary, as well as at Rock Sound primary school.

Students in Deep Creek showcased their talents, dancing to “I Have A Very Big God”, followed by Keyanna Simon and Tayshawn Brown giving recitations, and ending the event was Dorae Rolle, who belted out an entertaining song.

At the next stop in Wemyss Bight on day three, Mr. Rose said that the students did not disappoint, with a dance routine and an impressive choral verse speaking performance. In Rock Sound, the final stop for the judges on that Wednesday, student Zhivannah Georges recited words of encouragement, he described, and her schoolmates entertained as a choir. At each location, the adjudicators gave helpful pointers to the students, and interacted with them afterwards.

On the fourth and final day of adjudications, the panel of judges visited two sites. The first during the morning session at the Cancer Society’s Wellness Center in Palmetto Point, where they viewed solo and duet acapella vocals, dance, drama performances of both group and solo skits, individual drum instrumentals, stringed instruments with vocal accompaniments and more, by students from the Gregory Town primary school, and the Central Eleuthera high school, along with one community entry performance. Students at the Emma E. Cooper primary school, then rounded out the week during a final afternoon session, with both solo and group recorder presentations.

Sonovia Pierre, Organizing Secretary with the National Arts Festival (as well as a teacher and an acclaimed Bahamian vocalist and recording artist), on the group’s final day in Eleuthera commented, “It has been interesting. There have been a number of things. We’ve had junkanoo, drama, singing... We haven’t had much singing, which has been interesting, and not as much choir [as seen before]. Drama, believe it or not has been the number one on this island. They’ve been doing a lot of drama, as well as instrumental and dance - would be the next in popularity. So, for some reason Eleuthera has not been very high on the vocals this time. So, that has been interesting... they put a bit more this time into dramawhere you have to take the time to apply yourself and learn the pieces... The kids have been doing well.”

Notably missing from the entrants this year in Eleuthera, said Ms. Pierre, were paintings along with art and

P44

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On this page and the opposite page: Students from the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School., Rock Sound Primary School, Emma E. Cooper Primary School, Deep Creek Primary School, and Wemyss Bight Primary School, show off their talents, in recorder performances, dance, piano selections, choral verse, choir, poetry and more, for adjudicators from the 65th Annual E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival.

The team of judges were in Eleuthera for four days, from May 6th until May 9th, 2024, visiting schools and community centers throughout the island.

The National Festival provides an opportunity for all ages to showcase their talent or creation in the arts, and compete on the national stage.

Page. 42

craft pieces, including jewelry making and shell work, photography, straw and others - with just two art pieces adjudged across the island.

She expressed the need for both schools and the Eleuthera public to understand the scope and nature of the competitive National Arts Festival - where not just students, but anyone in the public could prepare selections and pieces for the competition, across a wide variety of art genres - including; drama, dance, fine arts, crafts, film, and music. Communities with thriving creative artisans, vocalists, choirs, and drama enthusiasts; schools with vibrant art, music and drama programs - could use the national arts festival competition to show off their talents, skills and creations, and have them adjudged at a national level - with the convenience of those national judges coming into each community, each year.

Speaking directly to teachers, reinforcing the type of impact they could have by allowing their students to be creative and take part, Ms. Pierre shared, “You are giving students a chance to find their passion. Like me, I wasn’t interested in sports. My talent was singing and music. And up until that time in school, I was shy. Nobody knew me. But it was one teacher who gave me a chance, and look at me now.”

For further information, or to reach out to the Organizing Secretary about any aspect

of the National Arts Festival, email - Culture@bahamas.gov.bs or call (242) 5020600/ or 502-0601. (Photos By Eric Rose)

On this page and the opposite page: Students from a community entrant, Central Eleuthera High School and Gregory Town Primary School perform in music, vocals, dance, poetry and drama, for adjudicators in the 65th Annual E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival.

Twelfth (12th) annual Catch Jerry Chile, Caught!

This year’s 12th Annual ‘Catch Jerry Chile’ Fun-RunWalk fundraiser event, for only the third time in the history of it being held, saw Mr. Miska Clarke (Jerry’s Chile) being caught.

The approximately five-mile course of the event, which takes participants in the early morning blood-warmer, from the Cork tree at the center of James’ Cistern’s homecoming site, to the beginning of the fenced wall of the Governor’s Harbour airport, also witnessed the fastest run finish time, since the Fun-

Run-Walk was first staged. Businessman, avid distance runner and visionary of the fundraising event, Miska Clarke, assisted by ‘Catch Jerry Chile’ committee members - all from James’ Cistern, including; nurse Bernadette Colebrook (asst. chairperson), Angelo Bethel, Caroline Rolle and Romeo Rolle, have been putting on the event, aimed at promoting healthy, active lifestyles, while raising funds for a number of health, wellness, and community initiatives within the Central Eleuthera area - from the Cancer Society, to life-saving equipment for public clinics and the Health Association of Central Eleuthera (HACE), community sports, ‘jaws of life’, education scholarships, and much more.

The race was well supported, with full contingencies of partici-

pants from the Royal Bahamas Police Force, Pineapple Fields, Aliv, as well as a variety of other generous business and individual sponsors. Healthy numbers of community members registered to take part in the 2024 race, held during the morning hours of Saturday, May 4th, and more than 50 people showed up in time to take part in the ‘wake-up the body’ warm-up session headed by Superintendent Franklyn Neely, and there was an on-time start at 6:30 a.m. sharp.

Mr. Clarke, as in each year, was given a few seconds of a head-start, before participating runners set off to ‘catch’ him - followed by the walkers, taking part to get in their early morning workout, and possibly overtake speed-walker and local residentRoss Bethel, who has won the walkers division nearly every year since

its inception - with this time being no exception.

The chosen beneficiaries of this year’s fundraiser, with a focus on education, were selected 2024 high school graduates in the Central Eleuthera area, headed to continue their education at the tertiary level. Applicants, explained nurse Colebrook, would be considered by the committee, during the month of May - and she encouraged all eligible 12th graders to apply for possible assistance with tuition, books, housing, travel, and other aspects of their foray into higher education.

In an amazing 38 mins/14 secs total run-time, teen participant Develus Culmer, won the runners division, not only catching up to, and passing Jerry’s Chile, but blasting through the run record, and setting a new finish-

Above (L-R): Winners in the walkers division of Catch Jerry Chile shown are: Ross Bethel (first), Michael Culmer (second), and Destiny Seymour (third).

Shown (L-R): Winners in the runners division of Catch Jerry Chile: Levarrick King (third), Miska Clarke - Jerry Chile (second), and Develus Culmer (first).

ing bar for upcoming ‘Catch Jerry Chile’ races. He was followed by Miska Clarke, who finished in second, and Lavarrick King in third place. In the walkers divsion, serial winner, Ross Bethel took first place, followed by Michael Culmer in second, and Destiny Seymour who claimed third spot. Top finishers were awarded with trophies, as well as bragging rights until 2025.

Following the morning run, Mr. Clarke commenting on the rare occurence of being caught in the race, said, “It is really exciting to see that. When I get competition, they push me to better myself as a runner. I really appreciate them coming out... It was encouraging.”

He was also very pleased with the participation and overall turnout, adding, “If you look at the registrants, we had as many as 80 people register for the race. This year is significant for me, in that today is actually my mother’s birthday - and the race is named after her - Jerry’s Chile. So, it’s extra special for me... We are definitely going to continue, and we are excited about what we do - all the team members. We had excellent sponsorship, and the participation from the different communities was also very encouraging. We appreciate everybody.” Health, said Miska, would once again be the focus, in reference to next year’s beneficiaries of funds raised - emphasizing that their was always a need in that area which could use help in being met. “This is a matter of us helping ourselves,” he remarked.

Above: The Royal Bahamas Police Force, Eleuthera Division sent a full team to participate in the annual morning run. Below: Sponsor, Pineapple Fields, also sent a full team to take part in the Catch Jerry Chile fundraiser on May 4th, 2024.

Below and extending to bottom of opposite page: Support for the 12th Annual Catch Jerry Chile Fun-Run-Walk fund-raiser was strong this year, with participants from all over Central Eleuthera.