The Eleutheran Newspaper June/July 2024 Issue

First length of Asphalt Pavement laid in Wemyss Bight and Deep Creek as BSGC gets the anticipated major Eleuthera Road Project Underway

The week of July 15th, was a red letter one for Eleuthera as the awaited asphalt road works, being spearheaded by Bahamas Striping Group of Companies (BSGC), finally got underway in South Eleuthera. Base works by local subcontractors on several road ways in the settlements of Deep Creek and Wemyss Bight began early in the week, with the first quarter-mile of test asphalt pavement laid down within the Wemyss Bight township on Thursday, July 18th, 2024.

BSGC’s asphalt plant site manager, Mr. Ramdeo Ramdas, in an interview during the week with national media, commented, “We are ready... It was a long journey to get

this project - building side of it up and going - the importation, the delay of shipping, et cetera... But now we are ready.”

Senior project engineer, Mr. Francis Clarke, also made comment, saying that necessary surveys had been done in relation to ensuring that the redesign of the roads on the island would be up to standard. “If you look at the condition of the roads in Eleuthera, they don’t meet the 21st century standards. So, we have our design component where we will be using international standards to design and construct the roads to meet [those] standards.”

Shown above and right: As officials and BSGC executives look on from above, a heavy vehicle sits below a tower, from which completed asphalt concrete at the end of its production cycle at the asphalt plant in Rock Sound, is being fed into the back of the truck, before being transferred to paving crews in Deep creek, where the asphalt road works officially began, on Saturday, July 20th.

Member of parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, the Hon. Clay Sweeting, in communications with constituents on July 15th and 16th, cautioned residents and motorists to be careful as road crews go about pre-pavement and paving works in their areas, saying, “In preparation for upcoming road work and remediation, preparation of road verges has begun in settlements in South Eleuthera... I urge motorists to exercise caution while driving especially in areas experiencing active road remediation to ensure your safety as well as others.”

Following the test asphalt laying exercise on Thursday, July 18th, BSGC executives, along with national media, flew in to Eleuthera on Saturday, July 20th to witness the formal beginning of asphalt road works - with several miles of pav-

OEF Donates Over $56K In Hurricane Disaster Relief Supplies and Equipment To Local Organizations and Agencies

The One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) has taken a significant step towards enhancing disaster preparedness on the island by donating trunks of essential disaster relief supplies valued at $56,509 to various organizations and government agencies across Eleuthera. This generous donation, supported by a grant from Global Giving, aims to ensure that critical resources are readily available to support communities across Eleuthera as the region faces an active 2024 Hurricane Season.

The donated supplies include chainsaws, replacement chainsaw chains and oil, generators, first aid kits, rechargeable lights, radio sets, tarps, life jackets, water testing kits, rain suits, safety helmets and vests, moisture meters, hatchets, machetes, axes, first responder kits, hydration supplies and a wide selection of safety and emergency response equipment. Hurricane supplies have been distributed to key organizations across the island, including local government offices in South, Central, and North Eleuthera, as well as the Royal Bahamas Police Force (R.B.P.F.) Eleuthera Division, Health Association of Central Eleuthera (H.A.C.E.), Men of Faith, and South Eleuthera Emergency Partners (S.E.E.P.).

“One Eleuthera Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding communities across Eleuthera. Disaster preparedness is crucial in preserving lives and responding to urgent needs during and immediately following a hurricane. These essential supplies will empower our communities to re-

spond expeditiously and provide immediate and localized assistance. Our mission is to empower local agencies to help mitigate the effects of disasters by fostering a culture of readiness and resilience,” said Keyron Smith, President and CEO of One Eleuthera Foundation.

Representatives, including local officials, community leaders, and members of the recipi-

ent organizations, expressed their gratitude for the timely and much-needed support and the alignment of local organizations in taking a pro-

Pictured: Gathered around the table, local community stakeholders express gratitude and plans for the hurricane preparedness kits provided by OEF and Global Giving.

Eleuthera Rotary Installs New President

Saturday, July 13th, 2024, rang in a new club year for the Rotary Club of Eleuthera, as well as the Rotaractors Club of Eleuthera, which both celebrated their Annual Changeover event, hosted at the Cancer Society’s Wellness Center in Palmetto Point. Rotary president Brian Major formally handed over the gavel of responsibility to incoming president Jacqueline Gibson, who was taking up the mantle of leadership for the second time - having last led the Rotary Club of Eleuthera during the 2012-2013 year. Incoming Rotaractors president was Lydia Cooper.

Notables during the ‘smart casual’ evening, included the presence of past Rotary International president, Mr. Barry Rassin, who was the special guest speaker, and a number of presentations were made to members for their achievements over the past year. Past president Elburt Ferguson, was recognized with the ‘Service

Barry Rassin, and his wife Esther Rassin

Preston Albury); President Jacqueline Gibson; Rotarian Eldecia

and Past President Corrine Laville, East nassau.

Above Self’ award, and Rotarian Leahnora Knowles, was recognized for her stand-out contribution to the club with the ‘Rotarian of the Year’ award. Rotaractor Candice Colebrooke was presented with the ‘Service Above Self’ award, while Rotaractor Earlyn

Mills was awarded as the ‘Rotaractor of the Year’. A number of rotarians were also pinned with Paul Harris recognitions - a designation reserved for members making significant monetary donations towards the work of Rotary International.

Above: new Rotary Club of Eleuthera president, Jacqueline Gibson.

Shown above: Past President Joanne Smith, East nassau; Past President Brian Major, Eleuthera; Bradley and Adeyela Bennet (non-Rotarians); Rotary International Past President

(daughter of

Thompson;

September Sea in July

By Mike Lightbourn

It’s July, but the sea temperatures are typical of September.

That’s one of the factors that caused Hurricane Beryl to explode into the first Category 4 Atlantic hurricane in June, the official opening month of hurricane season. On July 2, she intensified into a Cat 5 storm - the earliest on record in the Atlantic and only the second to occur in July, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Beryl brought catastrophic winds, life-threatening storm surge and destruction to the southern Windward Islands before moving on to pummel other countries. Thankfully, the Bahamas was spared.

This is a wakeup call to all residents of the Bahamas who have not taken the necessary steps to prepare for the hurricane season. Sea surface

temperatures are at record highs, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Ocean temperatures typically are not warm enough to generate such strong hurricanes so early in the Atlantic hurricane season.

Besides the heat, the anticipated development of La Nina later this summer has led to predictions of the most active hurricane season in recorded history. La Niña reduces Atlantic trade winds and leads to less wind shear. NOAA considered these factors earlier in the year when it predicted above-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin this season.

NOAA’s outlook for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season predicts an 85% chance of an above-normal season. NOAA is forecasting a range of 17 to 25 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher). Of those, eight to 13 are forecast to become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including four to seven major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). Forecasters have 70% confidence in these ranges.

With careful planning and preparation, we all have a much better chance of weathering the storm. Guarding your home from the flying debris and driving rain will give you a head start to protecting one of your greatest investments.

If you haven’t done so already, take steps to strengthen your roof, windows and downspouts against hurricane force winds. Bolster doors and shutters. Review your home insurance policy if you have one to ensure proper coverage and take photos of property. Losses caused by flooding are not usually covered by standard homeowners’ insurance policies.

Be ready to secure anything from your property that could be turned into harmful flying objects. Make sure porches and decks are sound and firmly attached. Fasten roofs with hurricane straps or clips.

Planning and preparing for a major storm can mean the difference between minor to moderate damage and destruction.

By Mike Lightbourn

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

Mike Lightbourn is president of Coldwell Banker lightbourn Realty

By Sir Ronald Sanders

The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the u S and the OAS. He is also the current President of the OAS Permanent Council. The views expressed are entirely his own. For comments and previous commentaries, see: www.sirronaldsanders.com

Everyone’s heart should cry out for the people of Union Island, Carriacou, St. Vincent, Grenada, parts of Jamaica, St. Lucia, and the fisherfolk of Barbados, all of whom suffered greatly under Hurricane Beryl’s severe blow. On Union Island and Carriacou, the destruction was particu-

Lessons from Hurricane Beryl

larly vicious, leaving residents lost and helpless, with their homes and livelihoods destroyed.

It is crucial for every government worldwide to recognize that these suffering individuals are not the architects of their misfortune. The root cause is climate change, driven by governments that continue to emit massive amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These emissions have created and perpetuate the conditions for climate change, including the extreme warming of the seas. In other words, the people suffering in these five Caribbean countries are victims of a crisis created by others.

It is akin to having their cars parked safely in their garages, only for huge trucks, belonging to strangers, to intrude and crush them. In such circumstances, the law should mandate adequate compensation. However, international law, including international humanitarian law, has yet to be designed to provide such compensation.

Continuing with the analogy, individuals whose cars are damaged by the reckless behaviour of a third

party may be able to secure benefits if their property is insured. However, two essential points must be considered. First, no insurance company will insure any property that is repeatedly damaged under similar circumstances. Second, with each claim, insurance premiums escalate, putting such insurance beyond the reach of affected individuals. As a result, small and medium-sized businesses find it difficult, if not impossible, to rebuild, leading to unemployment, expanded poverty, and intense hardship for vulnerable groups such as single parents and their children. Furthermore, government revenues are reduced due to lower tax and fee payments at a time when expenditures increase to cope with displaced persons and the rebuilding of both physical and social infrastructure.

An Associated Press report in the New York Times on July 11, 2024, indicates that insurers are significantly raising rates in response to Hurricane Beryl. This development follows a six-year trend of steadily increasing insurance premiums as companies face enormous risks from climate change. According to

the New York Times article, effective homeowner insurance rates surged by double digits for most insurance companies in 2023. If the impacts of climate change continue to escalate, it will become increasingly difficult for homeowners and businesses to maintain insurance or rebuild after disasters.

Hurricane Beryl has also created “climate refugees” in the Caribbean again. Many affected individuals have been forced to evacuate to other parts of their respective unitary states, requiring their upkeep by governments whose resources are already stretched. Similar situations occurred in Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 with Hurricane Irma and in the Bahamas in 2019 with Hurricane Dorian.

Antigua and Barbuda and the Bahamas, with limited help from international institutions and no structured response from major polluting countries, had to manage burdensome situations as best they could, including by seeking assistance from a few willing friendly nations. Similarly, the Caribbean countries impacted by P33

Prolonged Water and Electricity Outages Mark the Beginning of Summer

Town Hall:

On Thursday, June 27th, 2024, members of parliament for North Eleuthera, the Hon. Sylvanus Petty, and Central and South Eleuthera, the Hon. Clay Sweeting hosted a joint constituency meeting at the Worker’s Hall Ballroom complex in Governor’s Harbour.

The meeting followed a period of water supply stoppage in Central Eleuthera for more than a week, beginning on June 17th, 2024. In the midst of this prolonged water outage, on June 22nd, Minister Clay Sweeting and Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Water and Sewerage, Leon Lundy, issued a joint press statement, expressing their dissatisfaction with water producers, Aqua Design.

It read in part, “The Government of The Bahamas, and by extension, the Water and Sewerage Corporation, relies on our contractors to deliver essential services efficiently and reliably. The recent equipment failure at the reverse osmosis desalination plant and the subsequent delays in repairs are indicative of a significant lapse in service delivery... This is unacceptable for our communities to endure extended disruptions in such a critical service as water supply... We fully understand the inconvenience this has caused our residents, particularly those in Gregory Town, Governor’s Harbour, Palmetto Point, and Savannah Sound. The Government will thoroughly revisit the contractual arrangements with Aqua Design Bahamas Limited.”

In the wake of the uptick in the number and frequency of electricity outages across The Eleutheras, as well as prolonged water service stoppages, affecting multiple areas of the island grouping, residents from as far as Harbour Island in the north and Deep Creek in the south, were in attendance at the joint constituency meeting to voice their concerns, and to hear what the island’s representatives had to say about what would be done to alleviate and correct the current challenges being experienced by residents with both electric and water utility services.

Executive teams from both the Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC), as well as Bahamas Power and Light (BPL), along with Minister for Water and Sewerage, the Hon. Leon Lundy, were in attendance at the meeting - to hear the concerns firsthand, and respond directly to residents.

In a robust question and answer session, residents present highlighted a myriad of issues concerning both BPL and WSC. In addition to power outages and water service stoppages, audience members spoke about the many decayed electricity/telephone poles, and the worn state of electrical lines, the challenges in getting new water service connections - with one customer still awaiting his connection after several years and paying thousands in deposit fees. The general takeaway from the evening in terms of resident feedback, was growing anger, disillusionment and frustration over the state of utility services in Eleuthera.

Water Services:

General Manager with WSC, Robert Deal, commenting on the corporation’s actions to rectify the water service deficiencies in Eleuthera, outlined, “We are doing several things, particularly with respect to Central Eleuthera. First and foremost, at the Naval Base facility, we have installed two new storage tanks there recently. One is a half million

gallon, what we call a modu-tank. That is already connected, and that is in operation. We have a second, one million gallon new tank - which we are making arrangements for now, for the pipe work to be hooked up. We expect that to be operational in another six to eight weeks. Once

those are both fully operational, the capacity of the site would have increased by up to 1.5 million gallons. That is going to be critical to ensure that when water is off, we would have water in storage to supply the community.

Family Island Coordination Council

Launched in Eleuthera

With the purpose of forming community partnerships to prevent gender-based violence, and ensure that survivors of this type of violence receive the support and services needed for recovery, the Ministry of Social Services began the systematic launch of Family Island Coordination Councils (FICC) in partnership with Family Island Administrators, as well as other government and non-government organizations. FICC’s have been launched, so far, in Grand Bahama, Abaco, in The Exumas and Ragged Island, and now Eleuthera.

Eleuthera was identified for the launch of the 4th Family Island Coordination Council, during May 2024. In a ceremony hosted at the Worker’s House Ballroom, under the theme: “Family Islands U.N.I.T.E for a Safer Bahamas”, Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting the Hon. Myles LaRoda, along with Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs and member of parliament for

Central and South Eleuthera the Hon. Clay Sweeting, presented volunteer members of the Eleuthera Council with their official letters of appointment, formally inducting them into the Council. Ms. Jewel Edwards was appointed as the Chairperson for the new Eleuthera FICC.

The Eleuthera FICC volunteer members inducted are intended to act as a community support system for the police and the Ministry of Social Services, providing emotional help, counseling and hope to battered victims. Minister LaRoda, during the ceremony at Worker’s House, said that the government will continue its work on the Family Islands to ensure gender-based violence becomes a thing of the past.

Eleuthera council members selected from the local community included pastors, advocates, civil society/NGOs, social services, health, education, police, the Zonta Club, the Crisis Centre, as well as others.

The Eleuthera GBV FICC membership includes, Marisa Mason-Smith (Zonta Executive/Founder of Eleuthera GBV); Jewel Edwards, Chair;

Nurse Bianca Edwards; Nickal Symonette; Inspector Tekenia Taylor; Maisie Thompson; Mr. Will Simmons; Juanita Pinder; Philippa Kelly; Michelle Bain-Johnson; Savannah Cambridge; Officer/Ms. Emily Petty; Officer Renardo Brown; Officer Alexandria Albury; Jasmin Leary; Rev. Elmena Bethell; Meredith CulmerAtwood; Dr. Zenna Friend; Marguerite Culmer; Sherwin Johnson; David Armbrister; Chardel Gibson; Pastor Clarice Thompson; Pastor Sharnette Kemp; Tonya Johnson; Kim Young; Gina Rodgers-Sealy; Calae Burrows; Melinda Wallace; Chinyere Culmer; Agnes Deveaux; Jascintha Curtis Kelly; Ocilia Williams; Nicola Kelly; Ceila Imlach; Donna Miller; Ithalia Johnson; Sharan Bethel; Rosie Curry; Keyshna Kemp; Lincoln Young; Monique Cooper; and Audrea Scavella.

Minister LaRoda pointed out during the ceremony that the volunteerism

Jewel Edwards, Chairperson of the Eleuthera FICC.

Hoops For Hope: Hatchet Bay Park Renovation Projects

Lifts Off with OEF and the Association Italia-Bahamas

One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) and the Association Italia-Bahamas are embarking on a collaborative project to revitalize Hatchet Bay’s main community park and basketball court. Backed by local government, community stakeholders, and the Hatchet Bay Festival Committee, the project aims to restore the park and its facilities for the enjoyment of residents and the economic development of the area.

The project will progress over the next few months and include the construction of new bleachers, upgrading the park’s bathroom facilities, refurbishing the storage room with secure access, and resurfacing

the basketball court with the addition of a new scorekeeping unit. Work on the bathrooms has commenced to ensure the facilities are available during the upcoming annual Hatchet Bay Homecoming Festival, “Bay Fest,” scheduled for July 31st through August 5th.

The project is being led by OEF and the President of the Association ItaliaBahamas, Andrea Cecchi, who recently donated eleven thousand dollars on behalf of the nonprofit organization toward the restoration project. Based in Italy, the organization aims to promote charitable activities between Italy and The Bahamas, with OEF serving as a strategic partner in its charter.

Members of the Hatchet Bay community can look forward to the park being restored and expanding its use with more frequent community events and gatherings, festivals, youth sporting activities, basketball scholarship scouting events, and friendly inter-community basketball tournaments. Also lending his support to the project is Hatchet Bay native Dexter Cambridge, a homegrown former professional basketball player with the Dallas Mavericks.

“We are so grateful and pleased to partner with Andrea and Association Italia-Bahamas, as well as our local community stakeholders,” expressed Keyron Smith, President and CEO of One Eleuthera Foundation. “This park is the heart of the Hatchet Bay community, and revitalizing it will reap many tangible benefits for the residents, youth, and business community, both now and in the future. We look forward to continuing our partnership and welcoming others to join us in this and future community park restoration projects on Eleuthera. For more information about One Eleuthera Foundation and its initiatives or to donate, please visit www.oneeleuthera.org.

LETTER TO THE EDITORClarifying the Intentions Behind the Sunset Estates and Marina Project

The ambitious Sunset Estates and Marina project has recently sparked significant public discussion, particularly concerning the perceived relocation of a main road. Many residents and tourists have expressed their concerns, fearing that the development might disrupt their usual routes or restrict access to certain areas.

To address these concerns, it is crucial to clarify that the road in question is neither being relocated nor closed off. Instead, the project aims to enhance the existing road by expanding it to ensure a wider and safer passage for everyone.

This road expansion is a part of the broader vision for Sunset Estates and Marina, which seeks to provide improved infrastructure to benefit both local residents and visitors. The enhanced road will facilitate smoother traffic flow and bolster safety measures, addressing the increasing demand for better transportation routes in the area.

In essence, the objective of the road expansion is to support the community’s needs, ensuring that the infrastructure keeps pace with development while maintaining accessibility for all. This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering a safe and welcoming environment for everyone who enjoys the scenic beauty and recreational opportunities of Sunset Estates and Marina.

For further information or inquiries about the project, please contact our development team at info@barefootluxurybahamas.com. We remain dedicated to maintaining open communication with the community and addressing any concerns as we progress with this transformative project.

By Barefoot Luxury Bahamas

Shown above (L to R): Ocarvio Rolle, Hatchet Bay Fest Committee Chairman; Andrea Cecchi, President of the Association Italia-Bahamas; Keyron Smith, President and CEO, OEF; Kennedy Scavella, Local Government Rep. Back: Dexter Cambridge, local Phys. Ed. Teacher, and former pro-player.

Shown above (L to R): Keyron Smith, President and CEO, OEF; Andrea Cecchi, President of the Association Italia-Bahamas

New Dental Services at Family Medicine Center, Rock Sound

Family Medicine Center (FMC) recently announced the addition of comprehensive dental services to its suite of medical offerings. Well-respected dentist Dr. Hadassah Knowles joined the FMC Rock Sound healthcare team in Eleuthera.

Dr. Knowles brings over thirty years of experience in dentistry, ensuring that patients receive high-quality care in a range of dental procedures. Services include routine exams, dental cleanings, fillings, X-rays, root canals, crowns, bridges, and extractions. Her commitment to patient care aligns with Family Medicine Center’s mission to provide compassionate and comprehensive healthcare to the Rock Sound community.

Patients can now benefit from these essential dental services conveniently located at the Family Medicine Center

Rock Sound facility on Queen’s Highway. Dr. Knowles is dedicated to enhancing oral health and overall well-being through preventive care and effective treatments.

Family Medicine Center Rock Sound celebrated the opening of its newly expanded facility at the end of last year. Since then the service offerings have also been steadily expanding.

Comprehensive gastroenterology services with Dr. Flloyd Carter, including endoscopy and colonoscopy, were added to the Rock Sound clinic in March. In early June, urology services were also introduced, along with a special offer of free PSA testing for men over 40 consulting for the first time with Urologist, Dr. Greggory Pinto. Both of these services have been well-established and available for several years at Family Medicine Center’s

main facility in Nassau.

However, the addition of dental and hygiene services in Rock Sound marks a milestone for Family Medicine Center in patient-care services. Bringing dentistry into a primary medical care environment puts focus on the strong connection between dental health and overall well-being.

“Dental care is an important cornerstone of health in general,” says Dr. Graham Cates, Medical Director of Family Medicine Center. “The introduction of dental services at Family Medicine Center Rock Sound offers patients a well-rounded, one-stop healthcare solution.”

“Dental health is often overlooked as part of effective primary care, however, it has been shown that there is a connection between oral health and

Above: Family Medicine Center (FMC) Rock Sound - Dr. Hadassah Knowles.

many conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, alzheimer’s, kidney disease, and even complications in pregnancy,” Dr. Cates said.

Working alongside Dr. Knowles is dental hygienist Margot Ingraham, who also has more than thirty years experience. Ms Ingraham said she is committed to improving patients’ quality of life through dental care - an aspect of health that she considers vital. She enjoys interacting with patients and educating them on maintaining daily dental health practices.

“We are thrilled to add skilled, experienced healthcare professionals like Dr. Hadassah Knowles and Margot Ingraham to our Rock Sound team,” said Dr. Zenna Friend, Lead Physician at Family Medicine Center Rock Sound.

“Their interest in exceeding patient expectations and providing excellent care to our community aligns perfectly with Family Medicine Center’s philosophy,” added Dr. Friend.

Dr. Knowles said she is delighted to be working with Family Medicine Center, praising the team in Rock Sound for a well-structured, efficient practice that puts the patient first.

“Oral healthcare is the gateway to good overall health,” said Dr. Knowles, who describes herself as “an island dentist bringing affordable, efficient and quality dental care to the good people of Eleuthera.”

Family Medicine Center has earned a reputation for being one of the nation’s leaders in accessible, affordable, top-quality healthcare. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit the Family Medicine Center website: www.familymedicinecenter.org.

Eleuthera

& International Community

Rally to Aid Dr. Sidney Smith With A 9K Fire Recovery Donation Appreciate This !

Demonstrating the importance of being ‘our brother’s keeper,’ One Eleuthera Foundation recently presented Dr. Sidney Smith with a love donation of nine thousand dollars to aid in recovery efforts following a devastating fire that consumed his Tarpum Bay home on March 2nd, 2024. In partnership with Kristel Anderson, founder of The Eleuthera Forum Facebook Group, the clarion call to lend assistance went out and was answered by the international and local community.

Dr. Smith, a pillar in the community, has selflessly served Eleuthera for over twenty-five years with professional, compassionate medical care, making a significant impact on the lives of many. As a local humanitarian and healer, he continues to serve the healthcare needs of patients of all ages across the length and breadth of the island.

For more information about One Eleuthera Foundation and its initiatives or to donate, please visit www. oneeleuthera.org.

FMC Rock Sound - Dr. Hadassah Knowles assisting a young patient.

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Pictured (L to R): Keyron Smith, President and CEO, OEF; Kristel Anderson, The Eleuthera Forum; Yolanda Pawar, Chief Communications Officer, OEF; Dr. Sidney Smith.

As it happened here: Fifty-first (51st) Bahamas Independence Celebrations

The 51st Anniversary of the Independence of The Bahamas, celebrated on July 10th each year, since 1973, saw special events planned in each of the five districts, across Eleuthera. Flag raisings, tee shirt day, ecumenical services, family fun days, and cultural expressions, were features throughout the week of activities leading up to the 51st Independence holiday.

Harbour Island’s holiday calendar began on July 1st, with a day of prayer and reflection, and the burial of a time capsule on the grounds of the public library - sealing cultural mementos for the future generation. During the weekend heading into the Bahamas Independence celebrations, the island hosted an ecumenical service on Sunday, July 7th, followed by an evening of praise and worship, along the Briland Broadway.

Tuesday’s Independence Eve, in Harbour Island, saw residents and visitors gather for a late evening of live music, a flag raising ceremony

and fireworks on Bay Street to usher in the 51st Independence Anniversary Holiday at midnight. An Independence sunrise service at 6 a.m. on the Wednesday morning precluded a community grill and chill along Bay

Street during Independence Day. Saturday, July 13th, also saw the first installation of three Goombay Summer Festival events in The Eleutheras take place in Harbour Islandwith Bahamian headlining entertainer ‘Fanshawn’ climaxing the evening of local entertainment, games, cultural shows, and a junkanoo rushout.

North Eleuthera, on their Independence weekend calendar, brought residents out on Tuesday evening, July 9th to the Lower Bogue Homecoming site, at the beach, where an ecumenical service and cultural show was hosted, capping off at midnight with a flag raising ceremony. On Wednesday, the holiday off, residents returned to the community beach for a family fun-day of activities.

South Eleuthera came together

on the picturesque waterfront in Tarpum Bay on Tuesday evening, July 9th, 2024, with an ecumenical service followed by a cultural show, before capping off the Independence evening at midnight with a flag raising ceremony, and the excitement of fireworks. Green Castle Beach was the gathering place for a day of family fun on Independence Day.

Central Eleuthera, also focused on Tuesday evening Independence Eve celebrations, beginning with an ecumenical service at 9pm on July 9th, featuring local choir voices raised in song, reflections and remarks by local sages, including declaration of independence signatory, The Rt. Hon. Rev. Mr. Phil-ip Bethel J.P., of Palmetto Point/ Governor’s Harbour, and

Above: Families and friends were out on Tuesday evening, July 9th, in Tarpum Bay, South Eleuthera to celebrate Independence, and ring in the 51st Anniversary.

Ms. Annis Antrobus of Savannah Sound. Community honourees were also celebrated with plaques and medals. Township honourees, included; Dorothy Rahming and Julius Rankine of Savannah Sound; Charmaine Culmer and Wilson Cooper of Palmetto Point; Dolly Petty of Governor’s Harbour; Ana Lewis and Nurse Bernadette Colebrook of James’ Cistern; Rev. Claudius Bethel Sr. and Audrey Farrington of Hatchet Bay; and Leonard Johnson and Lo-

ran Bastian of Gregory Town. Forty five hardworking emergency volunteers and firefighters in both Central and North Eleuthera, who answer calls for assistance at any time of day or night, were also medaled and hailed for their unwavering commitment to their communities. The evening celebrations climaxed with a uniformed officers March Pass and an explosion of colourful fireworks, after the midnight flag-raising.

Community celebrations of Independence in Spanish Wells were hosted on Friday evening, July 5th, beginning at 7pm on the public park, with native vendor stalls, community awards, games, a flag raising ceremony and spectacular fireworks to close.

Unique to the Spanish Wells district within P28

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Pictured above: Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, the Hon. Clay Sweeting, takes part in the official flag raising ceremony, with local police officers in the island’s capital of Governor’s Harbour on Tuesday, July 9th, 2024.

Eleuthera Music Masters Face-Off in Battle of the Bands & Claim the Title!

A combined team of musicians, called ‘Eleuthera Music Masters’, comprised of mainly high school students, from throughout the island, represented Eleuthera at the National ‘Battle of the Bands’ event, hosted during pre-Independence weekend celebrations in New Providence on Sunday afternoon, July 7th, 2024 at the Kendal G. L. Isaacs Gymnasium.

The exciting face-off saw marching band groups from different islands put on lively performances. The

Ministry of Housing and Urban Renewal in conjunction with The Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) hosted the ‘Battle of the Bands’ under the patronage of the Hon. Philip Davis, Prime Minister and Mrs. Ann Marie Davis.

After the dust of melodic competition had settled, the Eleuthera Music Masters’ had captured wins for both ‘Best Music’, and ‘Overall Performance’ to claim the champions title.

Eleuthera member of parliament, Clay Sweeting commented following the event, saying, “All we do is WIN! Congratulations are extended to the participants, instructors and sponsors of the All Eleuthera Marching Band on their exceptional performance at the Battle of the Bands 2024. Eleuthera once again stands tall as champions, showcasing our vast array of talent found on our island. Congratulations, we are proud of you all!”

Royal Bahamas Police Force Officer, Sergeant Rudolph Pratt who throughout the year, works with several youth bands across the Eleuthera communities, and led this year’s preparation for the showdown in the capital, described, “For the past three weeks we were preparing to go down to Nassau for the ‘Urban Renewal Battle of the Bands’. They featured a number of bands from the Family Islands - including Eleuthera, Cat Island, Abaco, Grand Bahama, Exuma, San Salvador, as well as the New Providence Urban Renewal band. We competed with the various islands, and we won the Best Music, as well as Overall Performance Categories. So, Eleuthera are the champions!”

He added that the Eleuthera band was comprised of a variety of young people from throughout the island of Eleuthera. “... from Bannerman Town, straight up to Harbour Island and Spanish Wells. So, it was an All-Eleuthera band.”

Explaining the ongoing community band program led by the RBPF on the island, Officer Pratt, shared, “I work with each one of the community bands personally here on Eleuthera. The name of this competing band is ‘Eleuthera Music Masters’. Whenever you hear that name that means it is the combined band. It is a community initiative where we [the RBPF] try to bring young people from the community, inclusive of some adults - we bring them together in one area, so we could stop these talented young people from being idle, and steer them away from deviant and mischievious behaviour.

“When they [young people] are idle, that’s when problems can start. So, we try to keep them out of problems... We have many single homes, and from what I am seeing, the program is actually bringing families together. We have overwhelming parental support, and I could not have done this without the parents.”

Talking a bit about the journey to the ‘Battle of the Bands, Sgt. Pratt, said, “We actually started preparations late. So, we pulled off an awesome miracle. It was rough. I am still feeling it right now... We practiced every other day

leading up to the competition. We put in some work. In Nassau, we arrived late Friday, and first thing Saturday morning we were out in the parking lot practicing... So we were determined. The young people went in there confident. They executed, and we came out on top.”

Expressing appreciation and thanks to several other crucial partners of the experience, Officer Pratt, said, “I had partnered with Mr. Simon, a tour operator at Disney. He was tremendous, allowing us the use of his bus. We also could not do this without our Police Commissioner, Clayton Fernander and the senior executive leadership team at the RBPF, as well as Eleuthera O/C Chief Superin-

tendent Jeremy Henfield. Without their support this would not have been possible also.”

Officer Pratt highlighted that moving forward, the community band program in Eleuthera is seeking sponsorship for both instruments and uniforms. He added that there are many more young people on the island who are interested in joining.

Above: Police Sergeant Rudolph Pratt, lead instructor for a number of community bands across Eleuthera.

Above: The ‘Eleuthera Music Masters’ combined band took the capital by storm at the national Battle of the Bands.

Fire destroys another Eleuthera home, as Gregory town suffers second for the year

Another home was tragically destroyed by fire in Gregory Town, during the wee hours of the early morning on Sunday, July 7th, 2024. The house, owned and occupied by Mrs. Nora Thompson, was the second home to be lost to fire in the township in 2024.

Local government council chairperson for the Gregory Town community, and one of the first people to receive notification of emergencies, Mrs. Dina Johnson, relayed details of the sad incident, saying,”I got a call shortly after 5am this morning, saying that a house was on fire. The house is right up above me, [belonging to] Nora Thompson of Gregory Town. We had a bad thunder storm this morning, and the lightning struck in the back of her house by the meter box, and the house caught on fire.”

Mrs. Thompson, the lone occupant of the residence, was said to have been rescued in time to save her life. Mrs. Johnson, describing the broad sequence of events following the strike, continued, “She lost everything. Her nephew was able to pull

her out and save her. We had the north Eleuthera volunteer fire teamthe Embry team - that came up from Gene’s Bay. We had Governor’s Harbour respond, and the Men of Faith respond. And our fire tote was on the scene until they arrived.”

With continuing water service challenges across Eleuthera, Mrs. Johnson highlighted one of the weakest links in fire response servicesaside from response times which are affected by how far away the nearest fire truck is located from an incidentand that was the water supply.

She shared, “When they [the fire trucks on site] tried to fill back up/ refill, the water - there was no water pressure through the fire hydrant [in Gregory Town] to fill them back up. So what happened was - I called the police and the different agencies - administrator, social services, everybody came out. Nora had her bus that she used to go trading in, the big white bus, and her jeep burned. So she couldn’t save anything. That is the issue we were having. There was nothing to fill the water back up.”

According to Mrs. Johnson, the North Eleuthera fire volunteers’ only option to refill was to travel to the Water and Sewerage (WSC) facility in Lower Bogue, after communication with WSC local management on the island. Once finally refilled, they returned to continue fighting the house fire.

Expressing her frustration with the limited options for immediate fire response in her township, and proffering a possible stop gap solution, chairperson Johnson, stated, “Right now, what we need in this area between [Gregory Town] and Hatchet Bay, and between James’ Cistern to Governor’s Harbour - we need a flatbed water tanker truck, with a holding tank. Now if someone wants to donate a fire engine, it wouldn’t be a problem - we will accept it. But we need some sort of holding tank, to work with what we have, that can just be put on the back of a flatbed truck. And we could keep using that. That is the only suggestion that we have..., until the other fire vehicle/s reach on scene.”

Commenting further on what was seen with regard to electrical assets in the area of the fire, Mrs. Johnson described, “The electric-

ity was like it was walking on those poles. The fire when that hit, it just started running. This is the first time I have seen that. So, it affected all of the back roads. I had to call up BPL [Bahamas Power and Light] to ask them to shut the whole system down for the north feeder. So, nothing would happen to someone else.”

A nearby home was said to have also been hit during the lightning storm, with a portion of the home described as being in ‘darkness’. “So, we did have some issues with that thunderstorm, said Mrs. Johnson, adding, “It was sad this morning though, really sad.” She confirmed that Mrs. Thompson was the only person living in the destroyed home at the time of the fire, and that she immediately following the incident, had been staying with relatives within the community.

The home of Mr. Philip Thompson, of Gregory Town, was also totally destroyed during early April 2024, following an explosion, suspected to have originated from solar panel batteries being stored in a room within the home, which sparked an inferno, that quickly consumed the residence.

Shown: The devastated home of Gregory Town resident, Mrs. nora Thompson, after a suspected lightning strike to her meter box ignited a raging fire, resulting in the loss of property and vehicles.

Shown: Gregory Town home engulfed in flames on Sunday morning, July 7th, 2024.

OUTAgES: Water and Electricity

“We are also working to increase the production capacity of the plant, because one of the challenges we have now, is that almost every gallon that is currently produced at the Naval Base is put into supply [immediately]. So, as soon as there is any disruption in water production at the desalination plant, immediately the community feels it. So, we also need additional production capacity to ensure that we can fill the storage tanks... We are working with a variety of partners to see who will give us the fastest solution to increase production.”

He continued, “In addition to that, we will be upgrading the pumping station... We expect that to be implemented in the next few months. That is still in the early stages, but we are going to move ahead with that rapidly. Also, as part of the road works project, we will be carrying out major water mains improvements... So, there is a lot of work planned, and there is a lot that has already been done. The idea is to really work and focus on improving the reliability and consistency of water supply here in Central Eleuthera.

“Also, what the government has put in place [for relief now], and we are carrying out now. Water is being shipped to Governor’s Harbour. We have a water tanker, and we have already received the first load of water, that has been off loaded. The tanker should be back here shortly with another load of water, which is being pumped into the Naval Base facility to increase the storage level there. So, we are looking to take all steps that we can... to address the crisis, because we realize that what is happening here is impacting the health, the welfare and the economy of Eleuthera, and it cannot continue. So, urgent steps must be taken to improve the situation and to improve the quality of life for the residents here.”

Commenting on statements made by the panel of presenters during the town meeting about plans to decouple from Aqua Design, the company which currently owns and runs the desalination plants in Eleuthera and a number of other Family Islands, Mr. Deal remarked, “As we mentioned, we are working very closely with the Office of the Attorney General, regarding the future of Aqua Design operating here in The Bahamas. It is a complex legal matter. We are getting advisement and based on that, we will be taking next steps. The government has given us the mandate with respect to that, and so we are working very closely to try and carry out that mandate as soon as possible.”

Electricity Services:

With regards to electricity supply solutions, Toni Seymour, Chief Operations Officer with BPL, in response to being asked about what BPL is currently doing on the island to improve, maintain and upgrade their services, stated, “BPL is in the process of procuring about 6 megawatts of generation that is expected to be on the island within the next five to six weeks. We are also in the process of doing overhead line maintenance, overhead line upgrades, tree trimming, and line clearing. We also have the roving crew on the island from New Providence who are assisting the current distribution teams.

“We have sent additional bucket trucks and diggers to the island, so that the local staff will be fully equipped in the event of any challenges. We are also in the process of dispatching additional street lights to the island, because you know there have been a lot of street light complaints as well. So, those are some of the initiatives that we currently have ongoing. As well as ongoing maintenance at the plants.

In answer to a question about the current electricity demand seen in Eleuthera, COO Seymour provided, “Eleuthera’s [Eleuthera and Harbour Island combined] peak is usually around 14 to 15 megawatts, but we anticipate an additional load growth this summer. So, we are putting in the additional generation just to be prepared for that.”

Minister Sweeting, said following the town hall meeting, “This was something that people needed - to talk with the people in charge of both Water and Sewerage and BPL, and to also be comforted to know that there will be resolution to the issues. These meetings are necessary to educate the public, and also to reassure the people of Central and South that the issues with regard to water and electricity are going to be fixed sooner, rather than later.”

MP Sylvanus Petty commented that he was impressed with the capacity turnout and the variety of residents represented, “Everybody spoke their mind, but were cordial. We can see and hear the frustration in people’s voices. Moving forward, we are going to get it right.”

Follow up:

Minister Sweeting on July 10th, via his social media page, announced that materials for the storage tanks pipework project had been delivered

to the Naval Base site, with works expected to start in the coming days.

One week later, on Wednesday, July 17th Minister Sweeting held a press conference to further address and update the public about the ongoing challenges with water and electric utilities on Eleuthera. He began by highlighting the fact that Eleutherans from Harbour Island to Bannerman Town had been suffering through a series of power outages, power surges as well as prolonged disruption in the water supply, as well as disruption in the delivery of telecommunications.

His words, “The situation on Eleuthera is dire. The lack of these services is now a public health crisis and also a serious safety issue. My constituents are suffering from heat exhaustion, and mental exhaustion. My constituents are disenfranchised daily and this is an unacceptable situation.”

About water, he announced the barging of 100,000 gallons of water to Eleuthera, arriving the same day to fill the storage tanks, and added, “WSC will continue to do this until they can regain full production at the plants. The 1 million imperial gallon tank at the Naval Base site is being finalized with pipes that arrived on the island

Elite

Brokers

last week and should be completed within one month. This 1 million imperial gallon tank should be able to last for four days if there is another issue in regards to water production. However, we look to correct that [production] as well as a new desalination containerized unit of 600,000 imperial gallons is in Freeport and will be shipped to Eleuthera within a week. Preliminary work is being done on the naval base site to accommodate this unit as soon as it arrives. These initiatives should bring the situation back to some normalcy regarding water and sewerage.”

Regarding, the electricity supply, Minister Sweeting informed, “After a conversation with BPL’s CEO, we anticipate that customers in Eleuthera will start to experience some relief starting next week.” He then listed off a number of mitigating measures being taken on by BPL to tackle the challenges in Eleuthera.

“1. We anticipate that the parts for the engine in Harbour Island will be installed and the unit operable by late Wednesday (July 17, 2024). This will lessen the load on the Hatchet Bay Power Station which will improve the supply to the entire island of Eleuthera.

2. In North Eleu-

OUTAgES

thera, BPL is nearing the completion of this phase of the transmission line project. While this work is being done, there have been periods of supply interruption in North Eleuthera for about 3-4 hours daily. This should soon subside within the next two weeks.

3. BPL is also bringing in 6 MegaWatts of rental generation that will be online by late August to improve capacity to North and Central Eleuthera.

a. In the interim, parts for one of the units are in New Providence and will be shipped out this week. Installation will be complete in the next week to improve generating capacity out of Hatchet Bay.

4. Finally, an additional 2.5 MegaWatts of generation will be installed at Rock Sound Power Station by late August to increase capacity on the island for customers in South Eleuthera.

5. Efforts are ongoing to carryout tree trimming exercises and line clearing. This is an ongoing process. Protection equipment is also being installed on the distribution system to ensure a more reliable service to the public. This program should be completed within the next 4 to 5 days.”

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 DecemberBush 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)

July 29th - August 9th - spaCes eleuthera KIds summer CampArts and Crafts activities for boys and girls 8 - 16 years old. Monday - Friday, 9am - 2pm. Camp site - Cancer Society, Palmetto Point, Eleuthera. (Contact: Karen Crean, (242) 557-7075 / (242) 332-2924)

July 8th - 13th, 2024Bluff 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, 2024hauler’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) 5583418)

descendants to come 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, 2024Bay 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 10th, 2024 - Bahamas goomBay summer festIval/lower

Bogue - A Signature Summer event hosted by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, featuring Bahamian headliner entertainment, heritage games, cultural showcase, and junkanoo rushout. Begins at 12 noon until midnight.

(Contact: Mrs. Glenda Ingraham, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism - (242) 332-2142 or (242) 470-7828, gjingraham@bahamas. com)

August 24th, 2024 - Bahamas goomBay summer festIval/savannah

sound - A Signature Summer event hosted by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, featuring Bahamian headliner entertainment, heritage games, cultural showcase, and junkanoo rushout. Begins at 12 noon until midnight.

(Contact: Mrs. Glenda Ingraham, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism - (242) 332-2142 or (242) 470-7828, gjingraham@bahamas. com)

July 31st - August 5th, 2024BaCK to the Bay - Tarpum Bay - The Tarpum Bay festival is a way to encourage

Ensuring sustainability: Research responds to fisher questions about the stone crab fishery

In the last few decades, the Bahamian stone crab fishery has grown into an emerging commercial fishery. With exports of stone crab claws valued at $3.1 million in 2016, it is now the third most valuable export fishery behind Caribbean spiny lobster and Queen conch. The stone crab fishery is unique; it is one of the very few “claw-only” fisheries in the world which only harvests one or both front claws of the crab. The living crab is returned to the sea after harvest. The two front claws, or “biters”, of stone crabs are huge, together making up as much as 60% of their total body weight. These outsized limbs are very strong as they have evolved to crush the hard shells of their prey which includes oysters and small conch.

Although crabs have the incredible ability to regrow any limbs they lose, the loss of their claws will, at best, change their behavior and their ability to eat, and at worst, can kill the crab shortly after harvest. Because of the growing importance of this fishery in The Bahamas, researchers at the Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI) have been working to better understand the effects of this fishery, both on the crabs it harvests and the habitats it operates in, to ensure it will be an abundant resource for future generations. (Read more about CEI’s groundbreaking new harvest method to increase crab survival here, or searching “Don’t clip the biter, stick it!”)

Like other crustacean fisheries, stone crabs are caught in traps that sit on the seafloor. Until recently, these crab traps and other static fishing gears were considered to have little

to no impact on the plants and animals living on the seafloor (also called benthic communities). However, new research shows that some kinds of static fishing gear can cause serious damage to the benthos.

The environmental impacts of stone crab traps in particular have not yet been studied. This is concerning since these traps have a solid cement bottom, making them heavier than traps used in most other crustacean fisheries and increasing the potential for crushing animals or depriving marine plants of sunlight and oxygen. As fishing for stone crabs becomes more common, it’s important to understand the impacts of fishing before any negative impacts become widespread.

During meetings held by CEI and the Perry Institute of Marine Science (PIMS), local stone crab fishers have mentioned moving traps frequently to avoid harming the seafloor and expressed concern for what effect their traps may be having on benthic communities. Current research at CEI aims to address these concerns by studying the plant and animal life under traps. These organisms are compared to those in areas of the seafloor where traps have not been deployed to determine if the traps reduce the number or diversity of living things. This is done by surveying the seafloor after traps have been removed to identify and record any plants or animals in the area, then taking a small sediment sample, which is later searched for invertebrates like worms, clams, snails, and brittle stars.

Though this research is still in progress, it will shed light on whether

stone crab traps are harming benthic organisms and whether moving traps frequently, as some fishers already do, can reduce or eliminate any negative effects. As the fishery continues to expand, such knowledge will help inform best practice to ensure the fishery is sustainable not only for stone crabs, but for all the other organisms with which they share their ecosystems.

To study the impact of stone crab traps, researchers survey the surface of the seafloor in the affected area (left) then take a sediment sample (right). The process is repeated at a nearby control site.

A large stone crab above a trap. The traps used in the stone crab fishery are heavy, with a solid 2-inch thick cement bottom.

The Eleutheras, the ‘Slippery Pole’ cultural tradition of activities on the township’s main public dock was celebrated on Wednesday, July 10th, beginning at 11:00am, with crowds of locals and visitors to the island flocking the edges. Children up to adults of different age groups tried to overcome the multiple coatings of soapy dish liquid applied along the length of a painted telephone pole, hoisted over the water, at various sharpness of angle depending on the age groups competing for cash prizes to reach the coveted end of the slippery pole.

Spectators were not limited to the dock, as vessels of all sizes could be seen surrounding the Slippery Pole staging

area, filled with onlookers, enjoying the friendly competition, from an unimpeded vantage point. Waters surrounding the pole were also abuzz with activity, as children and adults of all ages, either waiting their turn to tackle the slippery pole, or just enjoying the crowd swim, took turns jumping and splashing into the waters along the main dock.

Tents of vendors from both Spanish Wells and mainland Eleuthera strung the surrounding dock area, where spectators could find a variety of crafts, goods, food and drinks on sale, adding to the festival atmosphere of the early afternoon water activities spectacle.

According to local leaders, the Slippery

activity has been part of the Spanish Wells tradition since before 1960. The pole used in the beginning was an old sloop mast. The current painted telephone pole, its said, has only been used over the past 8 to 10 years.

Pole

Above: Charmaine Culmer (center), was one of several Central Eleuthera community members to be chosen as honourees from their respective townships for their dedication and service to their communities. Administrator Rochelle Anderson stands left, and MP Clay Sweeting stands right. Below left: Is Mrs. Dorothy Rahming, an honouree from Savannah Sound. Below center: Mr. Claudius Bethel, and honouree of Hatchet Bay. Below right: Fire volunteer

Kathy Davis is medaled by MP Clay Sweeting. She was joined by more than 40 other local fire and emergency volunteers from across Eleuthera as honourees.

Above: All smiles. Every age was out to celebrate on Independence Eve.

Above: Taking in the slippery pole fun in Spanish Wells from a watery vantage point.

Spanish Wells - Slippery Pole Competition

The name of the game in the slippery pole competition is who can make it to the end of the pole without slipping off, or being tossed, tussled, or pulled off. Small cash prizes are up for grabs to the successful. All ages compete in their specified categories, from ages 7 and up!

slippery pole...tussles, tosses & truces....

Getting there!

The Falls!

The Grab!

The Smiles.

Spanish Wells Slippery Pole

Brute strength and great camaraderie on the pole

The men’s group flex their muscles and athleticism as they battle each other on the slippery pole - all in good fun, to impede progress and derail unless overpowered . It was all part of an independence morning in Spanish Wells 2024!

Just Wow!

Watch out!

Goners.

Hanging tough.

Local & Regional Effort @Princess Cays

RBC Royal Bank of Canada recently held a regional parks clean-up in recognition of World Environment and Ocean Days, with the aim of fostering a healthy environment and preserving our ecosystems for future generations. A total of 750 RBC volunteers across eight countries in the Caribbean completed the massive cleanup, collecting over 9 tons of beach waste and debris. In The Bahamas, nearly 100 employees and their families volunteered to clean up several parks across Eleuthera, New Providence, Grand Bahama, Abaco, and Exuma. Together they collected more than 1,900 lbs of debris from Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, Bonefish Pond National Park, Lucayan National Park, Abaco National Park, and Moriah Harbour Cay National Park.

PUBLIC ADVISORY NOTICE

Re:

The Consumer Protection Commission (the “Commission”) wishes to advise the general public of a significant increase in fraudulent activities related to the importation of Japanese vehicles. Most recently, Bahamian consumers have been targeted by scammers, purporting to be legitimate representatives of Japanese vehicle importers. These fraudsters hope to capitalize on the unawareness of the Bahamian public, ultimately leading to significant financial losses and unavoidable ownership disputes.

• Consumers purchase a vehicle or vehicles from a local dealer who promises to import with an agreed fifty percent (50%) deposit and with the understand-

ing that the fifty percent (50%) balance is to be paid upon the vehicle’s arrival in The Bahamas.

• Once the fifty percent (50%) deposit is paid, the vehicle(s) is/are then shipped, and the buyer receives the shipping confirmation along with a copy of the respective bill of landing.

• During transit, the vehicle(s) is/are then sold again to another buyer or multiple buyers in The Bahamas.

• After the vehicle(s) land(s) in The Bahamas, all parties having a legitimate interest in the same vehicle(s) present themselves to the respective shipping companies claiming ownership, consequently creating disputes and ultimately resulting in substantial financial losses.

The Commission strongly urges the public to be aware of such practices and to know their consumer rights in such instances. If you believe that you are a victim of this or any other fraudu-

Youth Corp at Princess Cays

On Wednesday, July 10th, 2024, between the hours of 7:00 am and 9:00 am, in celebration of the country’s 51st independent anniversary of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas, Police Corporal 1311 Renardo Brown from the Rock Sound Police Station, Eleuthera Division, along with two young men of the Eleuthera Royal Youth Corps (ERYC) while at Princess Cays Marina located, Bannerman Town, Eleuthera, conducted a Flag Raising Ceremony. While at Princess Cays Marina, Officer Brown and the two youth welcomed visitors from the Cruise Ship, Carnival Glory. They also interacted and communicated with local vendors and residents on site.

lent scheme, you are encouraged to contact the Commission immediately to help you navigate through such circumstances and allow us to provide the support needed. Please see our contact information below.

Stay Informed and Be Vigilant:

1. Always use reputable providers of goods and services. If uncertain of the legitimacy of the company you may contact the Commission for support.

2. Always use secure payment methods and consider third-party escrow services.

3. Do not remit payments to accounts of individuals. Always ensure that pay-

ments are sent to the corresponding company’s bank account.

4. Keep all receipts and a detailed record of all documents, transactions and communications for at least six (6) months before discarding.

5. When in doubt, “check it out” or “cancel it out”. If a purchase seems too good to be true chances are it is a scam. Fact check everything before making payment on any goods or services.

If you have any questions or concerns, we welcome you to contact the Consumer Protection Commission’s 24-hour Complaints Hotline at (242) 357-7898 or Email your questions and concerns to complaints@cpcbahamas.gov.bs.

Above and below: RBC Eleuthera volunteers at the Levy Preserve.

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 May, Officers conducted seven (7) traffic checks which resulted in motorist being cited for approximately fifty-two (52) traffic offences. In addition, a number of special operations were conducted; as a result, Officers have taken into custody sixty four (64) persons in separate incidents for various criminal offences.

Of that number, Forty seven (47) of those persons were charged. Officers shared information on Crime Prevention at One (1) speaking engagement at local schools and hosted Eleven (11) youth related activities or other special initiatives.

Drug Arrests

• On Thursday 13th June 2024 sometime round 7:00 am Officers while on Mobile Patrol arrested a 44yr old male after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspected marijuana. Officers then executed a search warrant on the residence of the suspect where an additional quantity of suspected marijuana was discovered. As result the male along with an adult female were both charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs with intent to Supply.

• On Tuesday 18th June, 2024 at 6:47am, acting on information received Officers executed a search warrant on the residence of a 43yr old male where a quantity of Dangerous Drugs (suspected marijuana) was found. The suspect was arrested and cautioned reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs with Intent to Supply.

At 8:07am, a further search of the property yielded (58) Plants ranging in height from (2ft) to (6ft) in the yard. The suspect was further cautioned for Cultivation of Dangerous Drugs. He was subsequently processed and charged with those offences. They were all collected for evidential purposes

• Found Drugs

At about 7:00am on Friday 21st June 2024, Officers of the Flying Squad Unit acting on information executed a search warrant on a residence in Eleuthera Heights. The search ended with negative results. However, Officers while canvassing the mentioned community in a known hotspot for drug activity, found inside a Blue luggage bag a clear plastic bag containing a quantity of suspected marijuana. Estimated weight - 1 pound. No arrest was made in relation to this discovery.

• Drug Arrest

On Friday 28th June 2024, sometime around 12:00pm Officers while on mobile patrol in James Cistern stopped a silver Honda Fit which was driven by a 24yr old male. A search was conducted of his person and his vehicle where officers found underneath the steering wheel a large bag containing suspected marijuana. The suspect was arrested and caution reference to same. He was later charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs with intent to supply

On Sunday 9th June 2024 at 3:37pm a 37yr old female contacted Governor’s Harbour Police Station via telephone and reported that there is a possible breaking at BPL office located Queen’s Highway Governor’s Harbour. Officers visited that establishment and confirmed the incident as reported however, the culprit/s were unsuccessful in gaining entry to the inner office. Investigations are ongoing in this matter.

Possession of Unlicensed Firearm and ammunition

On Friday 21st June, 2024 sometime around 7:30am the Officers conducted a search of an impounded vehicle which belonged to a 35yr old male who was in Police custody. During the search Officers found a black .9mm pistol containing a magazine and four (4) live rounds of ammunition. As a result, the suspect was cautioned and later charged with Possession of Firearm and Ammunition.

Joint Operation with Department of Immigration

On Monday June 3rd, 2024, between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m., In compliance with the Commissioner of Police’s Policing Plan Priority #5 that speaks to coordinating intelligence sharing and collaborating to aid Police operations, averting criminal risk and preventing crime; Officers from the Police Department along with Officers from the Department of Immigration acting on information conducted an operation in the Dunmore and Munnings Street area.

As a result four (4) females were arrested for Operating without a business license namely:

They were warned of Prosecution and released. One male was arrested for breach of Immigration Act. He was subsequently transported to New Providence for processing.

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.

Reports provided by NP Police:

**ELEUTHERA: MALE ARRESTED & ARRAIGNED FOR DRUG POSSESSION**

Police in Eleuthera arrested a 30-year-old male after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspected marijuana on Friday 28th June, 2024. Preliminary reports indicate that around noon, officers from the Flying Squad Unit were on routine patrol in the settlement of James Cistern when

they conducted a search of a gray Honda Fit, driven by the suspect, and discovered the drugs.

The driver was arrested, charged, and subsequently arraigned before Magistrate Cara Turnquest-Deveaux, where he pleaded guilty and was fined fifteen hundred ($1,500.00) dollars.

** ELEUTHERA POLICE INVESTIGATE SHOOTING INCIDENT**

Police on the island of Eleuthera are questioning two males, ages 24 and 26, in connection with a shooting incident that left two (2) males with injuries to the lower extremities on Sunday 30th June 2024. Preliminary reports indicate that around 11:40 a.m., a group of males were in the area of a club in Green Castle when an argument ensued between two (2) males. It is reported that one of the men involved in the altercation produced a handgun and opened fire in the direction of the male with whom he was arguing, but that male was able to evade the suspect;

however, two other males, ages 41 and 44, who were not involved in the altercation, were shot.

Both victims were taken to the local clinic, where they were treated and discharged. Police investigations continue.

P O LICE C O NTACT N U MBERS

• HeadQuarters (GH) 332-3500

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

• O/C Governor’s Harbour 332-2723

• Gov.Harb. Airport Station 332-2323

• Deep Creek Station 334-8207

• Tarpum Bay Station 334-4033

• Rock Sound Station 334-2244

• Rock Sound Sgt. Office 334-2212

• Rock Sound Airport Stn 334-2052

• L. Bogue (Airport) 335-1208

• Harbour Island Station 333-2111

• O/C Harbour Island 333-2327

• Spanish Wells Station 333-4030

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

OpiNiON: Lessons from Hurricane Beryl

Beryl will need to be creative in coping with the considerable challenges they face. They will also desperately try to avoid last-resort borrowing from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), whose policymakers impose harsh lending conditions.

The governments of countries that are major contributors to climate change are keen to keep all discussions related to climate financing, including compensation for loss and damage, within the confines of the annual Conference of the Parties (COP). However, developing countries, especially those in vulnerable areas such as the Caribbean and Central America, have been disappointed with the outcomes of COP meetings, where delivery often falls short of the pledges made. This in-

cludes the capitalization and operationalization of the “loss and damage fund” finally agreed upon at COP 28. Consequently, developing countries, including small island states, have had to turn to international law to try to curb climate change and its impacts and to seek redress for the losses and damage they suffer. Chile and Colombia, for example, have sought an advisory opinion on “Climate Emergency and Human Rights” from the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. Additionally, the Commission of Small Island States has secured an advisory opinion from the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, which warns that human-induced increases in the planet’s temperature, including its oceans, directly impact the occurrence of more extreme and recurrent

Young Eleutherans a part of RBDF’s 2024 Entry Passing Out Parade

Lead Officer with the Eleuthera Royal Youth Corp (ERYC) in South Eleuthera, Police Corporal Renardo Brown, proudly supported former ERYC participants, Mathias Ingraham and Sidron Johnson, as they took part in the ceremonial Passing Out Parade, for their New Entry 61 group, taking on their new roles as marines of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF), on Friday, July 5th, 2024. The ceremony, which took place at 4:00 p.m. at HMBS Coral Harbour, featured the presence of The Hon. Phillip Davis, Prime Minister of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas, and The Hon. Wayne Munroe K.C., Minister of National Security. Highlights of the Passing Out Parade included various military drills and fitness routines, showcasing the discipline and training of the RBDF recruits. Another Eleutheran, Deon Miller Jr., was also part of the New Entry 61 marines.

natural disasters.

Further, at the initiative of Vanuatu, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a landmark resolution on March 29, 2023, requesting the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to issue an advisory opinion on States’ obligations regarding climate change under international law. This request aims to clarify the responsibilities of States to protect the climate system from anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for both present and future generations. The ICJ has granted this hearing, and the process is currently underway. It is unfortunate that a matter of such grave concern to small countries, persistently and severely impacting the lives and livelihoods of their people, has become divisive. After all, it is the major contributors to climate change, particularly through greenhouse gas emissions, whose actions—or lack thereof—repeatedly impact areas such as Central America and the Caribbean.

There should be a more sympathetic and proactive approach to supporting countries affected by climate change. While small islands are the worst affected, larger mainland countries are not immune, as Hurricane Beryl has clearly demonstrated. The politics of addressing climate change must shift towards genuine understanding and cooperation. If not, the conditions of our planet will progressively worsen, leaving a trail of decimated countries in their wake –one after the other.

(The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the US and the OAS. The views expressed are entirely his own. Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com)

Above: Sidron Johnson (left) and Mathias Ingraham (right) stand with Officer Renardo Brown (center). Below right: Deon Miller stands with Mr. Brown.

Page. 7 OEF Donates Over $56K locally for Hurricane preparedness and relief

active approach to hurricane preparedness on Eleuthera.

The NOAA National Weather Service forecasters at the Climate Prediction Center is predicting above-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin this year, forecasting a range of 17 to 25 total named storms. Of those, 8 to 13 are forecasted to become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 4 to 7 major hurricanes (category 3, 4, or 5, with winds of 111 mph or higher). This is due to a confluence of factors, including near-record warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean, development of La Nina conditions in the Pacific, reduced Atlantic trade

winds, and less wind shear, all of which tend to favor tropical storm formation.

The Bahamas, including Eleuthera, is located in a region that is particularly susceptible to hurricanes. An active hurricane season could significantly impact the island with risks spanning severe wind damage, flooding, power outages, and economic disruption to our tourism-dependent economies.

The donation of disaster relief supplies by the One Eleuthera Foundation is a crucial measure to bolster the island’s preparedness and resilience against these potential threats. The foundation’s commitment to fostering resilience en-

Family island Coordination Council Launch in Eleuthera

seen in Eleuthera was far ahead of some districts in New Providence. He also highlighted the presence of students from the high schools who were in attendance, with young male students represented, saying that part of the strategy to end gender-based violence was sensitizing young men to the fact that it is not normal or natural to put hands/ or lay hands on females, and that the younger men are sensitized, it is a step in curbing the prevalence of violence.

He further referenced a recent study by the InterAmerican Development Bank, revealing that one in four

women in the Bahamas have suffered physical or sexual violence in their life, with survivors lamenting the challenges in accessing health care, law enforcement, and social services in the country.

Minister Clay Sweeting said the selection of FICC volunteers was, “A step in the right direction,” adding that their presence was important to build capacity on the island. “I’m so happy that Social Services has taken the initiative to visit all these Family Islands... The volunteers will also assist perpetrators of gender-based crimes to get the help they need.”

sures that communities have the necessary tools to respond effectively during emergencies, minimizing the adverse effects and setbacks due to storm impacts and necessary recovery efforts.

For more information about One Eleuthera Foundation and its initiatives or to donate, please visit www.oneeleuthera.org.

Pictured L-R: Phedra Rahming-Turnquest, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting; Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, the Hon. Myles LaRoda; Royal Bahamas Police Force Officer Tekenia Taylor (receiving her formal letter of appointment as a volunteer member of the Eleuthera GBV FICC); and Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs, the Hon. Clay Sweeting.

Reps from local government offices in South, Central, and North Eleuthera, the R.B.P.F. Eleuthera Division, Health Association of Central Eleuthera (H.A.C.E.), Men of Faith, and South Eleuthera Emergency Partners (S.E.E.P.) receive over 56K in essential Hurricane supplies and equipment.

Road works underway

ing done within the community of Deep Creek, signaling the official start of the 160-plus miles of asphalt road works.

Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, the Hon. Clay Sweeting, who was on hand to witness the start, stat-

ed, “What you see here today is the culmination of two and a half years of hard work by the team here at Caribbean Pavement Solutions/Bahamas Striping Group of Companies (BSGC), along with the Ministry of Works and the Ministry of Finance and the government to put together a 163-mile road pavement program, that is inclusive of water works - with water mains, and other issues we know have been long-lasting. So, it is an exciting day for Eleuthera, to be here to see the first three miles of road paved in South Eleuthera, as they work moving towards North Eleuthera. It’s also exciting to see BSGC work along with two local subcontractors - the Symonettes and the Kemps, who have been in the road paving business for decades. So, it’s a happy day for Eleuthera.”

MP Sweeting continued, “People who drive on the roads everyday - the people that live here, who have complained about the

Eleuthera FICC volunteer and deputy local government chief councilor for Central Eleuthera, Philippa Kelly, shared, “I’m just excited to have this space here in Eleuthera. There are several of us who’ve been advocating for this for a very long time... We have our issues going on with violence against not just females, but males as well... [It’s important] to have someone here, and a council here to go ahead and deal with that specifically for Eleuthera, especially in the schools. So, we can go ahead and nip it early...”

Jewel Edwards, Chairperson of the Eleuthera FICC, expressed how pleased she was for the establishment of the Council. She also thanked all of the community leaders who had been willing to say ‘yes’ to the assignment, and those who had been working with these issues over the years. “It is important for us to collaborate and partner with various entities to address, manage, and eliminate violence in our nation and our island. We have a zero-tolerance approach and are focused on the overall well-being of individuals, to promote healthy families and communities,” said Ms. Edwards.

She added, “With the rise of gender-based violence,

‘bad’ roads - really the amount of monetary investment from the government, to see this come together today. It’s exciting, and it speaks to government’s investment in people, investment in infrastructure, and it also ties into the economic viability that we see happening in Eleuthera. The economic uptick is monumental. And without infrastructure, you know that investment coincides with that. So, the roads are definitely needed, and the people in Eleuthera, are sure to be happy - not just about the new roads, but also road safety.”

BSGC president, Atario Mitchell, briefly commenting on the project’s start, and the challenges in getting to the day, stated, “Logistics [was the most challenging], just getting everything to island. Eleuthera has a lot going on now, so, the shipping logistics that had to be coordinated. As you can see now, we are fully up and

this council is established as a mechanism of safety, networking, and solutions to address it. So often in our communities, people tend to hide the violence under the carpet. The council will address the violence head-on and through partnerships we will provide a haven and solutions. I’m delighted to partner and collaborate with leaders from all sectors of society as we work together as a resource, providing solutions, based on our core values of: prevention of the occurrence of violence by promoting a strong multi-disciplinary community and social environment that maintains zero-tolerance; protection from violence by identifying, providing and strengthening services for the comprehensive management of victims and perpetrators; accountability to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice by strengthening the legal and judicial systems; and when possible, to rehabilitate and support them to becoming productive citizens in the community.

“It takes all of us working together for the betterment of our beloved island, Eleuthera. We need all hands on deck.”

running. We are doing paving today. We still have moving parts. That is going to be constant. So logistics was our hardest challenge so far.”

In answer to the question of the project’s timeline, president Mitchell answered, “We are paving today, so the clock has started, and we anticipate it being on schedule. We are looking to pave around four miles per week, and we are looking at an 18-month to two-year timeframe.”

Melanie Roach, BSGC General Manager, talking about the water works side of the project, explained, “Currently, we are anticipating laying 300,00 feet of water lines - that is about 56 miles. There will be different kinds of water pipes. There will be some water mains, but there will also be some local water distribution pipes in the various settlements. We are going to start in the deep south with Bannerman Town and John Millars, because they don’t currently have a potable water system. So, that is where we will begin. In Eleuthera there are gaps between the water main systems. What we are looking at is to close the gaps - so, that there is a continuous flow from north to south. Some of the other settlements - their existing water mains, we are going to be improving, and expanding in those settlements.”

GM Roach continued, saying, “BSGC has hired Mr. Lesley Hutchinson. He recently retired from the Water and Sewerage Corporation and has 38 years of experience in project management of water systems throughout The Bahamas. So, he is very qualified to oversee the program in Eleuthera. We expect to have a smooth operation. We are now in the process of sourcing the materials, the equipment and the labour. We are planning to have a team of about 25 people working on the water mains. If we see that we need to increase that to speed up and match the road program, then we will do that. But, we are expecting to start with about 25 people... I don’t anticipate that for another 6 to 8 weeks for the water mains [to begin]. But the road works, they will continue, on both the settlement roads and the main highway road.”

The road works, described as phase one of the asphalt project in Eleuthera, are slated to be completed over a 24-month period, and include the island’s network of community roadways and highway, from the southernmost settlement of Bannerman Town to the Central Eleuthera township of Hatchet Bay.

Pictured: Clockwise from the top left the images show personnel, portions of road, the asphalt facility, and equipment deployed, as the highly anticipated asphalt paving of Eleuthera commenced.

Featured: Eleuthera’s Class of 2024’s Graduation moments filled with lots of support and encouragement

Senior High School graduation ceremonies took place across Eleuthera during mid-June 2024. Methodist church venues in multiple townships were again the space of choice for graduates of Samuel Guy Pinder All Age, Harbour Island All Age, Windermere High, as well as North Eleuthera High School this year. Preston Albury High School graduates celebrated their final ceremony together at Fountain of Life Ministries in Rock Sound.

The pomp and ceremony got underway on Friday, June 14th, with three back-to-back events in one day, starting in Savannah Sound with Windermere High School and in Rock Sound with Preston H. Albury High School, both held at 10 a.m. in the morning. Central Eleuthera High School then followed on Friday evening at 6 p.m. in James’ Cistern at the Methodist Church there. Ceremonies ramped back up, starting on Monday evening, June 17th in Hatchet Bay, at St. Mark’s, with North Eleuthera High School’s commencement held at 6:00 p.m. that evening. On Tuesday morning at 10 a.m., the Methodist Church in Harbour Island played host to the graduation ceremony of the Harbour Island All Age School. Wrapping up on Wednesday, June 19th at 6:30

Class of 2024 - WHS

p.m., was the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age commencement ceremonyto round out the high school graduation season.

As witness to the variety of commencements held across the island, this year’s ‘awards segment’ of the different graduation programs, could be described as - especially emotional, as graduates enjoyed the accolades of audiences of family members and supportive friendsboth as they paraded into the various venues, as well as during the individual presentations for the ceremonial receipt of their hard-earned Bahamas National High School Diplomas, and a plethora of other awards.

Windermere High School (WHS)

Key words of ‘success’, ‘dreams’, ‘horizon’, ‘possibilities’, ‘empowered’, and ‘purpose’ resounded from this year’s themes chosen for the various ceremonies. The first round of 2024 high school graduations on Friday, June 14th began with Windermere High School (WHS) in Savannah Sound with four students participating in graduation or completion certificate exercises which began at 10 a.m. that morning. Led by principal Myrtle McPhee and her compliment of staff, who welcomed supportive family members and friends, the theme in Savannah Sound spoke to the graduates looking forward,’Solid Rock Approved... Empowered to Dream’. Graduates of the class at Windermere High School this year were: Valedictorian - Breonna Accius, Salutatorian - Tyesh Morley, Glenvon Cartwright, and Cherbens Jean-Baptiste.

Shown above: Principal Myrtle McPhee of Windermere High School stands with her Class of 2024 (L-R) - Cherbens Jean-Baptiste, Breonna Accius - Valedictorian, Tyesh Morley - Salutatorian, and Glenvon Cartwright.

Shown above: Valedictorian at Windermere High School, Breonna Accius capturing a proud selfie moment.

Class of 2024 - PHAHS

Preston H. Albury High School (PHAHS)

Preston H. Albury High School’s (PHAHS) graduation service, under the theme, “Follow your dreams; it will lead you to your purpose”, with principal Mr. Kenneth Roberts, took place at Fountain of Life in Rock Sound at 10am on Friday morning, June 14th, 2024. Forty-eight graduates marked the successful end of high school, and the beginning of their foray into young adulthood.

Special guest speaker on the morning, Pastor Clarice Thompson of Global Outreach Ministries congratulated the class for having made it to the end of their high school careers, saying that their achievement was worth celebrating. In her message to the PHAHS graduates, she told the class that, “Just like sleep, dreams are important too, because they give our lives meaning as well as direction. Without dreams, our lives would be like aimless, lost ships on the sea.” She encouraged the young graduates, borrowing a quote, saying, “If you can dream it, you can do it!”

Graduating at the top of the class at the Preston Albury High School as Valedictorian this year was Nathalia Saunders - who was also highlighted for achieving a cumulative Principal’s List grade point average of 3.91, and numerous other awards, including the Head Girl Leadership Award. She was followed up by Salutatorian, Bernette Leary who also achieved a cumulative Principal’s List grade point average of 3.68 and received the Deputy Head

Shown above: The 2024 Graduates of Preston H. Albury High School, take a moment during their commencement ceremony to memorialize the journey taken as classmates together during the past six years of junior and senior high.

Shown above: Valedictorian nathalia Saunders being presented with a scholarship award by member of parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, the Hon. Clay Sweeting, accompanied by her very proud mom.

Girl Leadership Award.

Their peers also celebrating as graduates included; Gia Morley (Senior Prefect Leadership Award, cumulative Principal’s List grade point average of 3.67), Taequanna Curry (cumulative Principal’s List grade point average of 3.65), Jaydawn Goodman (Deputy Head Girl Leadership Award), Shontavia Cash, Tamiya Johnson, Fredrica Morley, Roshawn Munroe (Head Boy Leadership Award), Delores Cooper, Jatonia Bethel, Rhandesha Mackey, Tyreka Smith (Vice, Caleb Carey (Deputy Head Boy Leadership Award), Tianna Cash, Carmelo Knowles, Naveah Sweeting, Courtliyah Whylly, Cherica Jean-Baptiste, Calantha Hall, Anthony Archer Jr., Shania Newbold, Charles Culmer, Kirkwood Kemp, Bradesha Gardiner, Deniqua Richards, Colin Valereehiad, Rhia Francis, Horatio Stubbs, Camron Brown, Moneisha Burrows, Diantaye Brown, Lorenzera Rolle, Parezz Nairn, Dakari Mckenzie, Benley Jean, Jerry Valereehiad, Solomon Russell Jr., Hailie Payne, Nathaniel Dorsinval, Edranique Munroe, Dayna Smith, Keannte Cartwright, Roberto Thompson, Dashone Mckenzie, Benji Jean, Howard Ferguson, and Odny Auguste.

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On the page: The Preston H. Albury commencement ceremony, hosted at Fountain of Life Ministries in Rock Sound was filled to capacity, and spilling outside with family, friends, well-wishers, and spectators, who expressed their joy and pride in each graduate’s achievements, as they were being called upon to receive their diplomas, awards and certificates.

Central Eleuthera High School (CEHS):

High school graduation for the Central Eleuthera High School (CEHS), with principal Kevin Hepburn, was held later on Friday evening, June 14th, at the Wesley Methodist in James’ Cistern at 6pm, under the theme, “Defying all odds, Embracing the possibilities.” The large audience of family, friends, wellwishers and community leaders filled the church - where the fifty-eight students celebrating the completion of their secondary schooling were called out to receive their Bahamas National High School Diplomas, awards and completion certificates.

Both District Superintendent, Mr. Michael Culmer, and District Education Officer, Mrs. Fontella Knowles, were in attendance. In his message to the students about to enter the world beyond high school Mr. Culmer emphasized that life going forward was all about them persevering and defining their own version of success, saying, “It is very easy in ceremonies like this to celebrate those who have attained excellence, but we must remember for every graduate seated, there is a story. A story of one who persevered, one who struggled, one who would have given up had it not been for a teacher, an administrator, a parent, a community leader, or simply a classmate, who said - I believe in you. So, I want to say to you, you have done it... Success is not a place, it is a journey. Everyone’s success is different. What matters most is not what you walk out of here with this evening, but how you walk out of here. I mean your mindset. What will you be doing in the next week, months and days. Life is about what we do, and how we impact the people around us.”

Valedictorian this year for the Central Eleuthera High School was, Nikita Deal (Prefect Captain), who was also recognized as the Most Outstanding Female Athlete. She was joined at the top of the class by Salutatorian, Aretha Culmer (Head Girl). Both Nikita and Aretha had achieved a cumulative Principal’s List grade point average. They were joined by their peers, Jade Thompson, Ellis Culmer (Head Boy), and Kyra Courtemanche, who also achieved a cumulative Principal’s List grade point average. Re-

cipient of a special Leadership Excellence Award was graduate Prekano MPhee (Deputy Head Boy). Their peers also celebrating as graduates and completion certificate recipients included; Rose Mary Ibarra (cumulative Honour Roll), Devilus Culmer (Prefect Captain, Most Outstanding Male Athlete, Overall Most Improved Male, cumulative Honour Roll), Shaunia McCardy (cumulative Honour Roll), Terrinique Sands (Deputy Head Girl, cumulative Honour Roll), Crache Major (cumulative Honour Roll), Britney Sineus (cumulative Honour Roll), Sidnia Bethel (cumulative Honour Roll), Faith Knowles (cumulative Honour Roll), Janae Cooper

(Humanitarian Award, cumulative Honour Roll), Jordan Whylly (cumulative Honour Roll), Gino Francois (cumulative Honour Roll), D’Aundra Sands (cumulative Honour Roll), Vanessa Joseph (cumulative Honour Roll), Cyrinique Williams (cumulative Honour Roll), Juvens Bien-aime, Nadia Brown, Shon Brown, Gabriella Carey, Ciara Cash, Dereck Cleare, Aquaysha Cornish (Overall Most Improved Female), Joshua Daniels, Kristia Davis, Demetra Delancy, Evroy DeSouza, Angelo Jacques, Kanye Johnson, Rikaylah Johnson, Tamika Johnson, Santaisha Joseph, Xavier Knowles, Lester Mackey, Mashana

Shown above: Salutatorian at Central Eleuthera High School, Aretha Culmer, receiving a scholarship from member of parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, the Hon. Clay Sweeting (on left), accompanied by principal Kevin Hepburn (on right).

McCardy, Edron McPhee, Malik McQueen, Konto Miller Ronny Mitchell, Weshante Moss Valentino Osmand, Stenae Pennerman, Allivenchley Pierre, Kylin Pinder, Mario Pinder Devon Rolle Rajeem Rolle, Shakia Rolle, Shalantio Sands, Cianna Scavella, Austina Smith, Laquay Thompson, Samantha Thompson, and Tobias Turnquest.

North Eleuthera High School (NEHS):

Graduation exercises for North Eleuthera High School’s (NEHS) Class of 2024, with principal Chardel Brown-Gibson, were celebrated at St. Marks in Hatchet Bay, beginning at 6pm in the early evening, under the theme, “Beyond the Horizon, the Journey Begins.” A proud audience of family, friends and wellwishers filled the church for a capacity audience, where thirty-nine graduates spent their final moments together as a class, as they received their diplomas, leaving certificates, awards and accolades.

Special guest speaker on the evening, Pastor Clarice Thompson of Global Outreach Ministries, emphasized the importance of the perseverence of the students to have gotten where they were that evening as high school graduates, and the importance of continuing that push to achieve whatever their goals may be in

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Shown above: Smiling through the tears of joy and sentimental realization that one chapter has closed, and another begins - (L-R) CEHS Salutatorian, Aretha Culmer with CEHS Valedictorian, nikita Deal.

Class of 2024 - CEHS

NEHS

Shown above left: - nEHS Salutatorian, nyeka Tador (left) all smiles with nEHS Valedictorian Kezia Johnson (right), along with other happy graduates in the background. Shown above right: A very proud teacher at north Eleuthera High School embracing her student in a warm hug, in celebration of reaching the momentous milestone.

life, saying, “Put your faith and trust in God, and keep it moving, and remaining focused on the journey.”

Valedictorian for North Eleuthera High School this year as well as Head Girl, was Kezia Johnson, with a plethora of other accolades and achievements, including the current National Jr. Minister of Tourism. She was followed by Salutatorian, Nyeka Tador at the top of the graduating class of NEHS. They were joined by their peers also celebrating as graduates including: Amari Pinder (Head Boy), Adrian Ferguson, Luciano Cash, Jarvis Thompson, Floyd Leary, Ashton Brave, Jakire Stubbs, Dolson Emile, Darius Deveaux, Tae Taylor, Amber Dorestin, Tashae Brown, Gabryon Miller, Kijuana Ingraham, Kanaysha Reckley, Destinique Johnson, Surdania Sands, Sobrina Louima, Naydine Escarment, Algericka Hanna, Jadah-Marie Kitson, Benson Imbert, Kendall Rolle, Kelvin Francois, Jermaine Demeritte, Denver Woods, Gerad Mackey Adrian Dean, Jerry Saunders, Enoch Heastie, Strauensky Louis, Sannetiara Saintilmond, Merlanda Tima, Destiny Miller, Wadline Arne, Yolene Durolin, and Shania Heastie.

In her valedictorian’s address, Kezia Johnson, who piled up accolades in various speech competitions during her senior high tenure, including the debate team, delivered an inspiring message - sharing her challenges and successes in academics, as she balanced her

Shown above: nEHS principal, Mrs. Chardel Brown-Gibson, stands with District Education Officer, Mrs. Fontella Knowles, during the 2024 commencement ceremony hosted at St. Mark’s Methodist in Hatchet Bay.

Class of 2024 - NEHS

Shown above: An avidly interested audience look on as they witness the students of the north Eleuthera High School receiving their diplomas, awards and certificates, culminating six years of study, before heading out into the wider world of work, or further studies. At the top: nEHS Principal Chardel Brown-Gibson looks on, as the Class of 2024 take a photo all together.

Class of 2024 - SGPAAS

spiritual beliefs and values; the value of the relationships forged with her peers; recognition of the many guiding minds and hands that imparted both knowledge and wisdom during her senior years; and the attitude being taken going forward.

Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School (SGPAAS)

The final high school commencement for Eleuthera’s Class of 2024 took place on Wednesday evening, June 19th, in Spanish Wells, beginning at 6 p.m. The celebration showcased thirteen Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School (SGPAAS) graduates, with principal Ms. Troy Rolle, and supporting family and friend groupings sitting together, ready to cheer on their student.

District Education Officer for Eleuthera, Mrs. Fontella Knowles, who had attended every high school graduation across the island, lauded the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School’s legacy of success over the years, and encouraged all present to truly celebrate, expounding on the evening’s theme of, “Riding the Waves into Success”.

Pastor Brooks-Russell, from the Spanish Wells Methodist Church was the special guest speaker on the evening. Taking a different ap-

proach from most commencement speakers, he refrained from telling the students seated in their graduation robes, about what outlook to take, what goals to pursue, or the endless possibilities ahead on their future paths. Rather, he pointed to the one decision, which he felt with conviction, would take them wherever they were supposed to go as they stepped towards the future - and that was to take up the invitation, issued by Jesus Christ in the gospels, to “Follow Me”. He encouraged the graduates to consider that invitation by the Son of God, to receive Him and to follow the ways of God, laid out in the Bible. This decision, he shared, would have the most important impact on how they lived in this life, as well as their life in eternity.

Graduating at the top of the class at the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School as Valedictorian this year was Brettesha Sands (Head Girl), followed by Salutatorian, Mitzi Perry. Their peers also celebrating as graduates included: Nehemiah Joseph (Head Boy), Olguens Blanc (Deputy Head Boy), Roodly Agenor, Jeffrey Albury, Michelline Bernadin, Funtaysha Charles, Jayden Knowles, Vernon Neilly, Kendal Oscar, Imelda Saintilus, and Leroy Taylor.

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Shown above: A tear-filled part of many of the graduations across the island, was the time taken during the ceremony to thank parents, and family members for their support through the high school years.

P44 Harbour Island All Age School (HIAAS):

On Tuesday, June 18th, the Harbour Island All Age School (HIAAS) with thirty students participating in graduation or completion certificate exercises held its 2024 commencement ceremony, which began at 10 a.m. that morning. Led by principal Sharon Scott, the theme in Harbour Island spoke to the graduates looking forward,’Ignite Your Dreams’.

Graduating at the top of the class at the Harbour Island All Age School as Valedictorian this year was Kaylia Bartley - who was recognized for achieving the Principal’s List. She was followed by Salutatorian, Joriam Louis - who also achieved the Principal’s List. Their peers also celebrating as graduates included: Zakiya Gibson (Principal’s List), Ryan Bosfield (Honour Roll), Tatyana Bryan, Aniah Butler, Vanessa Delien (Honour Roll), Mya Ferguson, Princess Ferguson (Senior Mistress Award, Honour Roll), Alyisha Johnson (Honour Roll), Kelis Johnson (Most Outstanding Female Athlete), Joshua Johnson

(Most Outstanding Male Athlete), Lashanna Lightbourne (Honour Roll), Hannah Major, Savannah Moss (Principal’s Award, Honour Roll), Religious Neely (Honour Roll), Empress Roberts, Johnnesha Roberts, Dijon Stuart (Overall Graduating Male), Cindy Turene (Honour Roll), Abraham Andre, Antoine Barry, Owen Cherelus, Daron Cherisme, Canaan Curtis, Achilene Delcine (Silver Lining Award), Jevon Farrington, Dashanti Lightbourne, Shantanae Pearce, and Marlia Percentie.

Along with receiving their Bahamas National High School Diplomas, school-leaving certificates as well as trophies for requisite academic, sport and community service achievements - top performing graduates were also rewarded with various scholarship awards from corporate sponsors within the Harbour Island community.

Class of 2024 - HIAAS

Shown above: The Methodist Church in Spanish Wells welcomed a capacity audience of family members, friends, teachers, officials and well-wishers for the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School commencement ceremony, which saw thirteen students say goodbye to high school and hello to the world of young adulthood. .

Picture This

Nurses Appreciation Month Celebrated with a Luncheon

During Nurses Appreciation Month, the Ministry of Health and Wellness support staff of South Eleuthera, in partnership with sponsor, American Bridge [the design and construction company for the Disney Cruise Line project at Lighthouse Point], treated the nursing team to a grand style luncheon at First Ministry Church in Tarpum Bay. One organizer, Mrs. Laverne Armbrister, administrative accountant with the Ministry of Health team, thanked Mrs. Lashal Ingraham and her team at First Ministry Church, along with chefs Lavardo and Shanell Mckenzie for their part in the success of the luncheon - adding that the nurses expressed having had a wonderful time. On hand at the event, representing American Bridge, were Mr. Gwen Cavarec, Director of Food and Beverage, and Ms. Theresa Wood, Asst Dir. of Food and Beverage.

Roof Repair Campaign To Assist Vulnerable Residents

A recent communication to constituents in Central and South Eleuthera from the constituency office informed, “As this hurricane season is predicted to be above average and with parts of the Caribbean already experiencing the wrath of a category 5 hurricane, Member of Parliament Hon. Clay Sweeting has initiated a small roof repair program to assist families throughout the constituency.”

The statement continued, “The project is designed to assist vulnerable families with compromised roofs to avoid further damage to their homes and property. This initiative will be contingent on available funding and will supplement the upcoming Roof Repair campaign by Urban Renewal which is expected to commence shortly.

“Hon. Clay Sweeting advises the general public to continue to be vigilant, pay attention to any hurricane warnings and take the appropriate measures to remain safe.

“Constituents can contact the constituency office at 242-819- 6592 for more information.”

Appreciate this gesture of Kindnesss

Spanish Wells Student Donates to Ronald McDonald House

For the past two years, 10-year-old, Wellington Preparatory School 5th grade student, Tia Albury, in Spanish Wells, has been collecting aluminum pop tabs off of soda cans to donate to the Ronald McDonald House Charities in Miami.

Young Tia, has a neighbor, she calls, Ms. Rachel, who had a sick son that had to spend months on end abroad as he went through treatment. Unfortunately, in August of 2022, he passed away and his mom mentioned to Tia that, even as a Bahamian during that time of trial, she was able to stay at the Ronald McDonald House free of charge, which was of great assistance, so that she was able to be by his side through it all.

In March 2024, Tia was able to travel to Miami to donate 10+ pounds of aluminum pop tabs from soda cans, which are turned into cash (via recycling), and helps to run the Ronald Macdonald House.

Talking about the inspiration to do what she has been doing with the collection of the tabs, Tia shared, “While I know that there is not much one can do to heal the pain of losing a child - I still want-

ed to find some way to help. Mrs. Rachel explained to me, that one of the ways I can help is to collect pop tabs and turn them in. At the end of the year, the Ronald McDonald House Charity, weighs the pop tabs, recycles them, and receives money in exchange.”

She continued, “When I was seven-years-old I began collecting the pop tabs, and in March, I was finally able to travel to Florida and turn them in. In my research, I also found out about the ‘wish list’ that they have - and I was able to go shopping and purchase a lot of the items - like cases of water, snacks and cleaning products. The guy there was so nice, and he expressed how much this means to them. He was just so thankful, and this made me feel amazing. On my way back home to The Bahamas, all I could think about on the airplane, was that when I return to Florida - I want to bring bags full of pop tabs to help everyone I can.”

To other young people, who might want to help others in some way, Tia stated, “Always remember that you are never too small to make a difference.”

Shown above:

Albury of Spanish Wells.

Rotary installs new president; recognizes new and long-standing members

The Rotary Club of Eleuthera also welcomed two new member inductees, Monique Haley and Kathy LaCroix, who were both pinned by special guest, past Rotary International president Barry Rassin.

Brian Major gave remarks on his past year as president of the Eleuthera Club, sharing some of the challenges faced and expressing thanks to those who kept him going through the year. He encouraged all to take up the mission of Rotary, saying that it was a club that gave true service to the community.

New president Jacqueline Gibson, a Ministry of Tourism executive for many years, and now retired - although still facing a recent battle with cancerhas committed to taking forward the vision of the Rotary organization into 2024.

“This is my second time around as president,” shared Ms. Gibson. “The first time was in 20122013 - when I was elected and inducted as the first female president of the Rotary Club of Eleuthera. I enjoyed that and was so pleased that under that presidency, we took our club to platinum status within district 7020 - 10 countries. I would like to continue to build on the legacy that Shaun Ingraham, our charter president had started, and Ian Carey, who was our second president.”

She continued, “So this year, I want to focus on sustainability and wellness, so I am actually looking at a theme - “Thriving together, Building a Sustainable Healthy Future”. This theme will emphasize the interconnectedness of sustainability and wellness, highlighting the idea that they are both essential for creating a thriving community. We really want to focus more on the community. It will also suggest the collaborative effort to achieve these goals, which is a part of Rotary International’s value of service and community building.

“With regards to sustainability, we wanted to ensure that every single project that we do - in all seven areas of focus that Rotary has, are sustainable and are healthy... To touch on the wellness aspect, I want to look at mental health, because there are people faced with mental issues, with health issues - and we want to see how best we could partner with mental health organizations to provide resources and support to the community.

Ms. Gibson continued to share, “Then, we know that there is a problem with hypertension. We have applied for a grant and we don’t know if we will get approved, but we wanted to have a health fair to focus on that. We can do screening and promote awareness of the disease, because it is a silent killer. So many people have it and are not aware of it. So, we want to focus a little bit on that.

“We are also looking to encourage people to get up, walk, move - walk on the beach, on the streets - do whatever we can to become healthy... We also want to work on our spiritual wellness - so we can promote a sense of purpose, gratitude and connection in that area, that will support unity and understanding. Those are some of the things that I want to do.”

Continuing to highlight her goals, she said, “With regards to sustainability, we want to ensure that everyone has a good idea of what sustainability means to them... We are at the crossroads

here where we really need to focus more on this. We don’t just want to go and do a project and it is not sustainable, and not supported by the community. Whatever we do within the community, we are hoping to get community buy-in. So, we are looking to educate and inspire our members and others about the importance of sustainability. Also ensuring that projects encompass the three of the pillars of Rotary - including, environmental protection, social equity, and economic viability. If we integrate these principals into what we are doing, we believe we can enhance our projects and ensure their long term success.”

Ms. Gibson added, “You know my passion for cancer awareness. So, I wanted to do a little more for cancer awareness in October... and we want to emphasize education and empowerment when it comes to the fight against breast cancer - connecting these efforts to our broader sustainable goals. We have to start within, by encouraging members to take an active role in building awareness and support, for all those affected by cancer and other diseases. So, we can encourage a more healthy and ultimately a more sustainable community.

Answering the question of why she took on the presidency again, Jacqueline supplied, “So, why am I president for the second time? ...I believe we are coming together [as a club] and I know that we can make a difference. I am in that chair to encourage making that difference.

“I will do all that I have to do, as best as I can for as long as I can.

I have a passion for Rotary. I have a passion for helping others. I have a passion for making a difference. By so doing I can really help the “Magic of Rotary” to really shine.”

Pictured: (L-R) - Rotaractors, Candice Colebrooke (Secretary), Shanell Clarke (Treasurer), Ta’Kevia Demeritte (Vice President), and Lequan Cooper (Sergeant at Arms).

Pictured: (L-R) - Rotarian Sherrin Cooper, new Member Inductee - Monique Haley, new Member Inductee - Kathy LaCroix, with Rotarian Barry Rassin (PRIP).

Pictured: New RCE Board 2024-2025 (L-R) - Rotarians Ian Carey, Audrea Carey, Elburt Ferguson, Susan Culmer, Eldecia Thompson, Sherrin Cooper, Leahnora Knowles, president Jacqueline Gibson, Shaun Ingraham, Glenda Johnson, Julian Carey, Brian Major, and Rotarian Barry Rassin (PRIP).