The Eleutheran Newspaper June/July Issue 2019

Volume 12, Issue 06 /12, 2019 web: WWW.ELEUTHERANEWS.COM

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Eleuthera, Harbour Island & Spanish Wells, The Bahamas

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CLASS OF 2019 - Encouraged to Become the Best Version of Themselves

Ninety Five (95) very proud 12th graders, along with family members and friends celebrated on the morning of Friday, June 14th, 2019 at the Ministry of Education’s 2019 Bahamas National High School Diploma Graduation Ceremony for Eleuthera, at the Worker’s House Ballroom in Governor’s Harbour.

The successful graduates comprised students from all of the six high schools on the island, both public and private, including; Samuel Guy Pinder All Age (SGPAAS – 9 graduates), Harbour Island All Age School (HIAAS – 9 graduates), North Eleuthera High School (NEHS – 20 graduates), Windermere High School (WHS – 8 graduates), Central Eleuthera High School (CEHS – 27 graduates), and Preston H. Albury High School (PHAHS –

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6 40 2019 Bahamas National High School Diploma Graduates Celebrate Success ADVICE:

22 (Honour in Marriage) ; 13 (Are You MATURE Enough?) |

Opinion:

12 & 35 |

North Eleuthera MP offers

comments on Gov’ts Budget Announcements

During an event in North Eleuthera in late June, Member of Parliament for the North Eleuthera Constituency, Mr. Rickey Mackey, in an interview, shared his reaction to some of the announcements that had been made during the budget debate in the House of Assembly, concerning upcoming as well as ongoing works within North Eleuthera. The new airport was the first to be com-

mented on, with Mr. Mackey saying, “We are moving rapidly in order to see that is done.

“We have some challenges with it in terms of the acquisition of the land, because of the type of land it is.

It’s commonage land. So, we’re hoping to have them resolved quickly to move forward. Exuma airport is sup-

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New Medical Center in Harbour Island

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Sweeting’s Pond Proposal

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2019-2020 Infrastructural Projects

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Generation Esthers

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U12 Baseball Nationals in Eleuthera

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Memorial For Men Found Dead in Italy

An Eleutheran Profile: 14 RBDF Ranger Cadets Passing Out -

10, 30-31

Spanish Wells, Harbour Island,

Eleuthera

BACK COVER: Damianos Sotheby’s International PAGE 3: Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty PAGE 5: HG Christie

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‘Budget 2019’

Continued from Page. 1 posed to kick out in September, and we [North Eleuthera airport] are supposed to kick out shortly after that.

“We’ve completed the designs. We know what we want to do. It’s just now a matter of moving forward.”

In reference to the public dock in Harbour Island, Mr. Mackey explained, “With respect to the dock, the government has allotted some 4.5 million dollars for the dock in Harbour Island, but we have some concerns with that as well.

We are hoping to relocate the commercial aspect of the dock, and in order to do that, we have to work in tandem with BPL, because their Plant is where we want to put the new commercial dock.

I think we are pretty close to that. I had a meeting two weeks ago with the CEO at BPL, and he is supposed to be flying into North Eleuthera to look at a piece of property, we’ve identified. So we are working to come to a resolution.

Then we can move towards relocating the commercial aspect of the dock. The current dock needs work, like recapping and resurfacing. The building will be

North Eleuthera Member of Parliament: Mr. Rickey Mackey.

repurposed into a welcome center, as Customs would move to a facility at the site of the new commercial dock. This would make things so much easier for people moving back and forth from that Continued On Page 39

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2019 GRADS Continued from Page. 1 22 graduates).

Each high school celebrated their top students, with six Valedictorians, one from each school, and seven Salutatorians.

2019 Valedictorians were; Lamar Sineus of CEHS, Dayonna Brown of HIAAS, Ernie Kelly of NEHS, Geordante Neely of PHAHS, Allie Pinder of SGPAAS, and Tamesha Sweeting of WHS. 2019 Salutatorians included; Joshua Jolly of CEHS, Gabriella Cleare of HIAAS, Mona Toussaint of NEHS, Oriana Carey of PHAHS, Anna Pinder & Merrick Underwood (Co- Salutatorians) of SGPAAS, and Cierrah Ferguson of WHS. The ceremony was attended by officials from the Ministry of Education, including Assistant Director of Education, Sharmaine Sinclair, who gave an overview of the Bahamas High School Diploma program as well as a special message of inspiration to the class of 2018, telling them, “Today is all about you...

You have been prepared to exceed all expectations. While the frontier you now face may be new to you, you have been equipped... as

Graduates: Commencement 2019 in Eleuthera saw a sea of support at the Worker’s House Ballroom to celebrate the end of the graduates’ successful high school careers.

critical thinkers and problem solvers.” She exhorted them to, “Exceed the status quo, set new benchmarks and establish positive trends”, adding a quote that, “Excellence is the result of always striving to do better…

Your graduation theme of , ‘Awarding excellence in education, the journey continues’, suggests moving from one starting point to another point, and as a result of the decisions you made earlier - you are now reaping your rewards. It also suggests that the movement and the reaping are not yet done… Continue to cultivate the habit of excellence in your lives.”

Giving the Valedictorian’s address, and representing the select group of graduates

inducted into the Bahamas Senior High School Honours Society, was Valedictorian for SGPAAS, Allie Pinder. She challenged her fellow graduates to

take all the lessons they had learned throughout their twelve year - primary and high school experiences - and to apply them to their future lives. Using a softball analogy, she described them as students who had started out on the bench in primary school, who received training, molding, encouragement - and in preparation to do well, they had to train and practice and learn the skills being taught throughout the years. Now on the cusp of entering adulthood, and well equipped, she stated, “I believe Continued On Page 40

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Second Year of Success Celebrated for RBDF Ranger Program in North Eleuthera

Community joins cadets for inspirational Passing Out Parade Ceremony

The Drill: Newly installed Ranger Cadets demonstrate their marching and drill skills during their Passing Out Ceremony held on the grounds of NEHS on Saturday, June 22nd, 2019.

BY The eleutheran news team

Defence Force Ranger Program In North Eleuthera Celebrate Successful Second Year Fifty Nine (59) students from the North Eleuthera High School (NEHS), the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School (SGPAAS), and this year for the first time, the Harbour Island All Age School

(HIAAS), who had participated in a rigorous forty-week Royal Bahamas Defence Force Ranger Recruit program during the 2018/2019 school year, came together with their proud family members, friends, and supporters on the morning of Saturday, June 22nd, 2019 to take part in their Passing Out Parade Ceremony, becoming full-fledged Ranger Cadets.

Commander Defence Force, Commodore Tellis Bethel, attended the 2019

Passing Out Parade Ceremony, held on the grounds of NEHS, in Lower Bogue, which got underway at 11am, to personally congratulate this latest entry of Ranger Recruits. Director of the Rangers Program, Lieutenant Delvonne Duncombe welcomed the students, and introduced Commodore Bethel, as he arrived to address the audience gathered. Commodore Bethel in his presentation to the young cadets advised them, saying, “Any good thing you want to achieve in life requires sacrifice. Many want rewards in life without the effort. If there is no input, there can be no output. If you don’t sow, you can’t reap. Otherwise you are living in a world of make believe: it’s La La Land you’re in, not Bahama Land. You are a ‘Lalailian’ not Bahamian. A true Bahamian believes in self-discipline, industry, loyalty, unity, and abiding respect.”

The Commodore thanked Continued On Page 30

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For more information: Call 829-4541.

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co mmenta ry The US and the Caribbean: a mutuality of interests

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

O

nce again, I have drawn attention to the danger posed to countries of the Caribbean by the withdrawal of correspondent banking relations (CBRs) from regional banks by global banks in the US. As lead speaker at the Opening of a Legislative Forum in the US House of Representatives on Capitol Hill as part of “Caribbean-American Heritage Month” on June 5, I told an audience representing the US Congress, the US Government, diplomats and US and Caribbean

businessmen, the following: CBRs are the life blood of global commerce and human development. They are as vital to the world as are air and sea transportation, telecommunications and the internet, and the fight to end communicable diseases.

Without CBRs, nations will not be able to pay each other for purchases of basic things such as food and medicine and ordinary things like busses, trucks and motor cars.

Without CBRs, the global financial and trading system would come to a halt, and affected countries will collapse into poverty from which recovery will be costly both in time and money, but more importantly in human life.

This grave threat has been hanging over the Caribbean now for almost half a decade; and it shows no sign of abating, despite statements to the contrary.

Right now, in many parts of the Caribbean, most banks are reduced to having only one correspondent bank, and at an extremely high cost.

Not only have the fees for these CBRs reached prohibitively high levels, they are taking longer periods of time to deliver services because of heightened scrutiny. Where in the past a cross-border transaction could take 2 days, it can now take as long as two weeks from our smaller indigenous financial institutions.

The cost of doing business in our region is escalating, even as we try to cope with high debt, incurred largely to recover our countries from disasters that have increased in frequency and intensity, as a result of global warming and sea level rise that point like daggers at the

heart of the existence of many of our island states.

It is claimed – wrongfully – that Caribbean countries have weak anti-money laundering and counter terrorism financing regimes, and this is the reason why global banks in the US are withdrawing CBRs. But, the two bodies, with the authority to determine the quality and standing of the regimes in the Caribbean, have judged most Caribbean countries to be in compliance with their rigorous standards.

Those bodies are the Financial Action Task Force and the OECD Global Forum. In some sectors of financial services, Caribbean legislative and enforcement machineries have been rated at a higher level of compliance than the US. Nonetheless, the Caribbean faces the real danger of being ‘de-banked’, and to be cut off from the world’s trading and financing system, including not being able to pay for its imports from the United States of America – the country that the region chooses as its major source market.

I went on to point out that “if Caribbean economies diminish, the consequences will be increased unemployment, enlarged poverty, increased crime and the advent of economic refugees that will swell the numbers of those gathering on the US Southern border”.

Earlier in the presentation, I had stressed that while the United States suffers a trade deficit with many countries and regions of the world, it enjoys a perennial trade surplus with the 14 independent countries of the Caribbean Community collectively, that increases every year. In 2015, the value of the US balance of trade surplus was $4.1 billion; in 2016, it rose to $4.6 billion, jumping to $5.5 billion in 2017, and escalating further to $7 billion in 2018. That money has provided profits for American companies and jobs for American people.

I also drew attention to the reality that, since the 1990s, US official development assistance to the region has steadily declined. In 2017, a year in which the US enjoyed a $5.5 billion trade surplus with CARICOM countries, the region, including Haiti, received a mere 0.9 percent of United States’ global allocation of official development assistance.

These figures were not mentioned in complaint. For every country in the world has the right to decide to whom it provides assistance; to what extent it does so; and for what purposes. But, since the CARICOM region provides the US with an escalating trade surplus every year, the US should have an interest in the economic growth and prosperity of these nations.

In the final analysis, if Caribbean countries are unable to maintain a stable rate of economic growth or if they decline, they will no longer be able to purchase goods and services from the US, and the trade surplus which the US has continuously enjoyed will shrink and

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so too will the revenues and jobs that it generates in America.

Therefore, there is a symbiotic and mutual interest in the US-Caribbean relationship that must be recalibrated to ensure that, as the ‘third border’ of the US, the Caribbean remains a zone of peace and a stable economic and political space.

That means that the US and Caribbean countries should set – and measure their relations – in the mutuality of their interests. All issues should be discussed, including the hot button ones for the US, such as Venezuela, Nicaragua and even the role of China in the region, but they ought not to be the single prism through which relations are evaluated.

Today, most CARICOM countries are stable; democracy and human rights are respected and upheld; the rights of the individual and of businesses thrive; and the rule of law is maintained.

But these conditions are only maintainable in conditions of sustained development.

Democracy, freedom and the rule of law are fragile plants whose growth and strength must be watered and fed by the nutrients of economic development.

The United States of America cannot choose to move out of the neighbourhood any more than can Caribbean countries opt to relocate elsewhere.

They each, therefore, have an obligation to recognize their mutuality of interests and to act on it.

Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com

A DV I c E ARE YOU MATURE ENOUGH?

By Mike Lightbourn Are you young and thinking about buying a home? Maybe your parents are trying to nudge you in that direction? They probably know real estate is generally one of the best investments you can make.

With reasonable bank interest rates, now may be a good time to start building equity in a home, instead of helping to pay off your landlord’s mortgage. Buying a first home can make even the most grown up person apprehensive, so I know it’s daunting to a young person. The following may help put things into perspective for you.

Knowing the True Costs: Let’s assume you know what your principal, interest, taxes and insurance will cost. Have you calculated day to day expenses, such as landscaping, maintenance and perhaps increased utility bills?

Are there homeowner’s association fees? If so, they may factor into some of the above costs. There may be the occasional levy to fund major repairs or upgrades, such as a new roof.

What About Closing Costs?

These include: * 2.5 % government stamp tax on all real estate transactions valued under $100,000. This will be changed from stamp tax to vat tax on July 1st. The amount will be exactly the same. * A total tax of 10% on all real estate

transactions valued at $100,000 and over.

This will also change from stamp tax to vat and will also be the same amount.

Additional charges include lawyer’s fees for conveyance and mortgage expenses and the cost of an appraisal. Some banks may offer special incentives on these charges.

First Time Buyers Tax Relief: Here’s some good news. Bahamian first time home buyers may apply for a stamp tax (soon to be vat) full or partial exemption, provided the appraised value of the property and structure is below $500,000.

Time and Appreciation: Long-term gains historically make real estate one of the safest and most successful investments. Bought at the right price in the right location, property should appreciate over time. However, it can be some years before the value appreciates significantly and even then, it will depend on the upkeep of the property and surrounding area and the current market and economy. The real estate market is cyclic, so you hope to buy and sell at the right time (this is a good time to buy).

Furnishing a Home: You may be lucky and buy a home that is already furnished. Trying to outfit every room from the start adds big bucks to the home ownership tab. You can build up inventory over a period if necessary.

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Your initial needs will depend on the size of your family. Start with, say, a bed(s) and chest of drawers, refrigerator, stove, some seating and a table(s).

Wait for sales or look at secondhand furniture if you are on a tight budget.

Vacation or Upgrade?

Are you prepared to sacrifice? Will you settle on paying a mortgage instead of taking a costly holiday? What if you need a new water heater or air conditioning unit? Can you tough it out without the cool air or hot water until you “catch yourself?”

Can You Adjust?

Are you prepared to be your own boss? If you’re used to living in an apartment where the landlord fixes everything, or at home where your parents may shoulder all or most of the responsibility, you may be in for a bit of a shock as a homeowner.

If you think you can handle home ownership, then maybe it’s time to stop procrastinating and time to start embracing the opportunities that currently exist.

Questions or comments?

Contact me at info@cbbahamas.com (Mike Lightbourn is president of Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty).

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An Eleutheran Profile: Willamae Taylor Sweeting (63yrs.)

BY elizabeth bryan

An Eleutheran Profile: Ms. Willamae Taylor Sweeting

Introduction: The name Willamae Sweeting will likely be synonymous with the Deep Creek Primary School, where she spent her entire 47-year career molding and shaping the young minds of students from her hometown coastal community moving through early years of education. Family, friends, colleagues, former students and community members celebrated with Willamae in June, as she marked her retirement from teaching. Sunday, June 9th, was a special day, with Ms. Sweeting honored during a special retirement service held at the Wesley Methodist Church in Deep Creek.

She was celebrated through many gifts, tributes of song and dance, and heartfelt words of love and respect for her character and the many contributions made within her home community of Deep Creek. The celebrations continued after the ceremony with family and friends gathered around a banquet. Ms. Sweeting took the time to sit and chat in the large, airy front room of her home a few days later as she took lunch away from the classroom - where she was still instructing her final class of students - to share

some of her memories throughout her storied life and times.

Early Days: Ms. Sweeting was born on June 3rd, in 1956, during a time on the edge of major changes in Eleuthera, and the Bahamas at large. Her childhood to adult years reflecting the change from the country’s dependence to Independence, and broadening of opportunities from mainly farming livelihoods to wider choices through education.

Looking way back at an earlier time in Deep Creek, Willamae shared her story from the beginning. “As a little girl, life for us was a bit challenging, because I grew up in a home, with just a mother, and my father, William Conrad Sweeting, was not there. My mother’s name was Myrthie Taylor.

So, survival for us was a bit rough.

We were a large family of ten - and I was the sixth child. I had one sister and eight brothers.

“My mother was a farmer, and my father was also a farmer. So, we spent most of our time on the farm.

That’s why my interest is so great in farming. I remember days when my mother had to go to the farm in Rock Sound, called ‘Baker’s Farm’ and she

had to take a crate from ‘Baker’s Farm’, which was near the airport site in Rock Sound to the Packing House by the Rock Sound dock. She had to walk to travel there. Now there was no transportation, and there were some times when we had to follow her, walking all the way from Deep Creek to Rock Sound, to meet her when she was returning home, with parcels from the food store [which was located where the book store/ stationery store is now]. We would also stop there to get the scrap meats, and we would walk the back road with the packages.

“My brothers did a lot of fishing. So, on weekends my mother would take us north selling the fish, and we would return with groceries from North Eleuthera, and Tarpum Bay in particular, where Mrs. Allen would credit all sorts of stuff to my mom. On weekends, it was a joyous time for us, because we would be able to go and get snacks and stuff.

“Apart from farming, we had to thrash the peas, and prepare all the farm produce for sale, which meant days on top of days just thrashing peas and thrashing corn, and the like. My mom would ship some of our farm produce on the boat to Nassau. There was a Chinese store on Bay Street, and also Milo Butler Distributors, that she would sell a lot of her produce directly to. So, actually, when I look back at those times as an adult, I shouldn’t say that life was hard - it was a little better than others, but to me it was hard. We worked hard, but we had no shortage of food. My mom had the connection with Milo Butler Distributors, so she would always have things arrive from Nassau after sending the produce,” she reflected.

“I wasn’t a tomboy, but I did hang out with the boys [with eight brothers],” smiled Willamae. Reminiscing on childhood fun, she shared, “We would go out to the creek, chopping fish at night. We had the bucket - I was never able to swim, so I just held the bucket, and the boys would chop the fish, like shad and mutton fish.

Using a torch or a lantern, we would see the fish reflecting as they moved and jumped in the water. We had to be careful using the torch though, because if that went in the water, you know you were lost.

“The usual chores for us before we went to school was to go into the field and bring produce home, clean the yard, get wood to set up for the evening’s cooking - also boiling peas - all done before we went to school. From school, we had to dash in the field to pick up produce collected during the day to bring home. Then we had to study.”

“There was a period when I was sent to live with my daddy,” she shared. “He felt that there were too many boys with a young girl growing up in my mom’s home, so he took me to his home. Life there, in terms of daily schedule and chores were the same. He was married to someone else, but my stepmother, she took me in as a daughter too. My siblings on my daddy’s side, twelve of them, are the Sweetings, hence my last name. I am also a Taylor, as my mother was a Taylor. So, I went to live with my dad at about 10-years-old. The daily routine was the same, but my daddy was very strict. You had to come home from school in less than five minutes - so we used to have to run, “ chuckled

Willamae, remembering back.

“There was also this lady along the way that we used to be afraid of, Mrs. Florence Gibson, because, if we passed her, and you didn’t speak to her - you know you would get a ‘cut hip’. We also were not able to take anything from people.

If someone offered us money or anything, we would be punished for taking or accepting money. Daddy was very strict with us. We still had a lot of fun,” smiled Ms. Sweeting, “One form of recreation we had was to shoot marbles. I was the best at shooting marbles, and of course dolly house. I would play the teacher with my friend Jackie and our dolls.”

School & Community: A dedicated Anglican now and for some time, however, growing up, worship was a mixed bag for Willamae. “I am an Anglican, and was trained under Father Guild. In fact, I went into the Anglican church because of a sister-in-law, but as a child, I was between the Baptist and the Church of God. That was with my dad. With my mom we had to go to the AME Church, and at one point, I had to go to the Jehovah Witness Church with my stepmother and my sisters. So, I was from church to church really. However, since then, I’ve always been an Anglican.”

Rather than choosing teaching, Willamae’s career could be said to have chosen her, “I attended the Deep Creek All Age School, which was then just one main building at the front, which held nine different classes. While I was with my dad, you had to study and you had to pass your exams. In class at school there were about ten of us, and I was actually pulled out of the group of my peers as a monitor [untrained teacher], from the age of about twelve. I was always a leading figure, like a mother. I had to do all of my studying at home, because often I didn’t have the time in the classroom.

“My dad was a disciplined person, and a person who had strong beliefs, and one was that you had to read. So, we had to read at home, nights on top of nights, until about 10pm - we had to read. Most of my sisters and brothers on the Sweeting side, they became civil servants in the public service, and on my mom’s side they were mainly builders, contractors, block makers and the like in construction. As a young person, I wanted to be a contractor, because of my brother - he made plenty money,” smiled Willamae with a twinkle in her eyes. “I also had wanted to get into the farming, but the money was inconsistent - they had to really hustle, and then after sending the produce away, they had to wait and the money would take a long time to come. However, my brother who would build homes, I would see him put all this money under the bed,” she said laughing. “He used to make a lot of money.”

Career & Life: “As a teenager, finishing up school in Deep Creek, my going into teacher training was a bit of a forced thing put on by the Principal, who was Robert Deal, at the time, and my dad. It was him who originally pushed for me to go.

Then my mommy, she fell in line afterward.

Initially, I did not want to do that. I just wanted to hang with the guys. I wanted my simple life,

feature An Eleutheran Profile Continued from pg. 14 of fishing and crabbing, night fishing, farming, going with my brothers to watch them build and draw plans. That’s all I really wanted to do.

Then Cape Eleuthera Resort opened up in 1972, and some of the older girls were down there working - and they would come back with their tips, and you would hear them bragging about all this money. So, then I wanted to go to the Cape to work, but, dad said no way. I was still torn then about what I should do. The classroom was fun, but it was like me teaching my dolls the word profession was not part of my vocabulary then. I was still very young. The thought I had then was, ‘I would have to do this all day?’, and not be able to hang out with the boys. Also, as today, teachers had to dress formally. So, I was torn about going into a career where I would have to change my lifestyle,” shared Willamae.

She continued, “So I lingered as a monitor for a few years, and finally Mr. Deal pulled me aside, and said, ‘You are going to have to go to College, you know, to get more money’. All this work I was doing at that time, I did not get any pay. He advised that I would get all my back pay in a lump sum and quoted some figures, and I said okay. I finally changed my mind from the Cape thing, and changed my mind from being home.

“I had all the required BJC’s and GCE’s at that time, so, in 1975 at 19, I headed off to College. I had to leave my family, which was sad, but I had to report home on every holiday and every break. So, that’s how it started.

Ms. Sweeting, at the College of the Bahamas completed her degree in Primary Education, also while she was there, taking up additional courses in Political Science in the University of the West Indies program offered at the College.

She returned home to Deep Creek, South Eleuthera in 1980, and began her career as a fully trained teacher. “I really wanted to come home.

I did not want to stay in Nassau, so I was ready to come back. They were trying to post me in other places, like Cat Island, but I told them to send me home. I told them they would not have to pay for housing for me, or anything else like that - so, they granted my request and I was posted back home. Life on the island is what I am all about.”

“I was excited to expose my students to the things learned while I was studying away. I had done a lot of drama and cultural shows with James Catalyn. So, I had come back with a variety of skill and experience in culture, sports, music theory, teaching, junkanoo, and many other extra-curricular activities - like judging Junkanoo, I also took part in the Independence celebrations committee, I was part of the Red Cross in Nassau as well, and remember having a lot of fun setting up for the annual Ball at Government House. How I got through College I don’t know - studied many late nights,” smiled Ms. Sweeting.

Back home, as a young teacher, Willamae, true to form, took on not just her responsibilities as a school teacher, but got fully involved in community life as well. “I enjoy imparting my skills and knowledge, and I’m a very community minded person. So, there isn’t anything happening within the community that I’m not involved in. I was a part of the South Eleuthera Homecoming Association. I also brought the Red Cross here, and was the leader for a time

here in South Eleuthera. I was very much involved in the Lodge, both the Eastern Star Lodge and The Good Samaritan Lodge, as a young person. I’ve served in various capacities in the church as well.”

As a teacher through the years, Ms. Sweeting shared that she was never one who liked just the chalk and blackboard method of teaching, “I always tried to do hands-on-learning, and whatever topic I was doing, I tried to expose the children to some outside environment, or drama, or skit. So, my strategy was always different from the ordinary teaching back in those days. Now, the Ministry is making suggestions to teachers about using this kind of integrated approach to learning. But, that is something that I was already doing for a very long time.”

Willamae, saying she was not one to be tied down, was never married. However, she was blessed with four sons, Roberto, Akeem, Rashad, and one young son who passed away. She also has two grandchildren, Malick and Gabriella.

Life after 9 to 3: Now that she has formally retired after 47 years of being involved in education, Ms. Sweeting shared that she may be retiring from the 9am to 3pm, but will still be very much involved within her community. “I may be retiring from teaching, but the bottom line is, if this was not my home, I could say I was retiring, but knowing me and who I am, I’m not totally retiring from anything or event happening in my community… I just want to be free to go in my farm,” she said, smiling. Willamae, ever involved, has also been offering cook-to-order meals within Deep Creek, and stays busy with orders. “The cooking business has become a bit stressful, so I’m looking to put a time limit on it, now that I’m retired. This walk-in concept will not continue to work, because I want to go into my farming, big time.

Advice to teachers today:

When asked about the advice she would give a young teacher entering the field today, Ms. Sweeting replied, “First of all, they need to be strong, focused and disciplined. The teaching has to be the focal point and the place of interest. It can’t be about the money. They have to love children and have a strong interest in them.

Many young teachers don’t have that interest and that drive. That’s why I’ve lingered on to this time at the school. Today’s children are different as well, education means less to them, so, you have to be strong and interested, to reach the children and not just fold up. Also, it’s very important to focus on developing the whole child, nurturing and building up their strengths and not just focus on passing exams.”

In The Photos: From the top - Ms. Sweeting stands with Bishop Daniel Nixon. Willamae Sweeting surrounded by her three sons, and her two grandchildren. Tributes by Ms. Sweeting’s former students in dance.

Photos taken during a special retirement service hosted for Ms. Sweeting on Sunday, June 9th, at the Wesley Methodis Church in Deep Creek.

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SPACES ARTS CAMP Coming to Eleuthera this summer for the first time - FREE with Daily Lunches (ages 8 -16)

During the month of August, children on Eleuthera will have the opportunity to be introduced to the first annual “SPACES – Eleuthera” (Summer Program of Arts and Crafts in memory of Eunice Sands).

The program marks an exciting opportunity to expose children to the entrepreneurial opportunities available to them in their community, through authentically Bahamian arts and craft products.

SPACES will host children ages 8 through 16 for 2 weeks and teach them a wide variety of arts and crafts with a focus on Bahamian products. The Arts

and Crafts program will take place Monday through Friday from 9am to 3pm at Wesley Methodist Church Parish Hall in Palmetto Point, Eleuthera and is 100% free to all participating students. The session starts on Tuesday, August 6th and will run until Friday, August 16th.

Committee Chairwoman Gina Rodgers-Sealy who is also the daughter of the late Eunice Sands says, “We have invited artists to conduct the various programs in painting, tea-making, shell craft, ceramics, glass art, jewellery-making and Junkanoo-craft to name but a few. But what will set this

program apart from your ordinary run-of-the-mill program, is that we will also be exposing the youth to the potential business aspect of it all. We are expecting 50 children to participate in each of the sessions.”There are three artists/artisans who have committed to participating in the program, including, leading Bahamian businesswoman Julie Hoffer, owner of the Pasion Tea & Coffee Company and Plantation Hill in Nassau, Bahamas. Another artist leading one of the workshops is Ceramicist Imogene Walkine who’s work reflects Junkanoo themes and other patterns found in the natural Bahamian environment. Walkine describes her work as “extractions from nature” and has participated in numerous group exhibitions around the Bahamas.

The third artist participating is Shorlette Francis-Cartwright a leading creative artist on Eleuthera whose work is featured in the Eleuthera Arts and Culture Centre, The Island School’s Hallig House and numerous homes throughout the Bahamas. Mrs. Cartwright takes used glass bottles and jars and transforms them into decorative fine art. She teaches classes in Glass Fusion, Jewellery-making and Recycled Glass Art. SPACES – Eleuthera is 100% free and includes lunch every day. Any parents interested in enrolling their children please contact any of the following committee members ASAP! Seats are filling up quickly!

Gina Rodgers-Sealy – 242-801-9200 or 772-812-2073 or gina.rodgers.sealy@gmail.com Karen Crean – Vice Chair/Treasurer – 242-557-7075 or karencrean54@hotmail.com Jennifer Hadland – Secretary – 242-551-3507 or jmhadland3@gmail.com Sarah Brie – brieforeverandever@rocketmail.com Kishlane Smith – phy820cul@yahoo.com Source: PRESS RELEASE

New E-Passport Renewal Policy Announced The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in June announced a new policy on the Renewal of Bahamian E-Passports. The brief statement read as follows: “Effective immediately, persons renewing their electronic passports are required to submit the following upon application: 1. A completed Application Form; 2. The existing Electronic Passport; 3. A Photograph in accordance with ICAO Regulations (standard passport-sized photo); 4. The National Insurance Board Smart Card It is anticipated that this new policy will provide a more efficient process for the renewing of e-passports.

For additional information, the public is invited to visit the Ministry’s website: www.mofa.gov.bs”

Source: MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, PASSPORT OFFICE Press Release, 19th June 2019

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Sweeting’s Pond Protected Area Proposal Presented in Community Meetings

BY The eleutheran news team

During the week of Tuesday, June 25th through Thursday, June 27th, 2019, the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) held a series of follow up meetings in the communities of Hatchet Bay, Harbour Island, Spanish Wells, and Governor’s Harbour about their proposal submitted to the Bahamas government to establish the Sweeting’s Pond Natural Area as a protected area.

The site, tucked between the townships of Gregory Town and Hatchet Bay, has been well established as one that

holds a treasure trove of rare seahorse populations, and this, said Eric Carey, Executive Director with the Bahamas National Trust, is one of the driving factors incentivizing them to push for this area to be a priority among the numerous areas earmarked for protection in 2020.

“Today, we were told by someone that he has seen tourists with seahorses in jars, so they are being removed. Technically, that is not illegal, because they are not protected. So, we are working to have this site fast-tracked.”

Mr. Carey continued, “These meetings were to inform the public that we

have submitted the proposal for Sweeting’s Pond to the government. We are looking to solidify support to get it over the finish line. These series of meetings are a follow up to an earlier set of meetings that we had within the communities prior to submitting the proposals.

These meetings were to present the conceptual plans, so, we could get people to start seeing what is possible, and to get people thinking about the economic opportunities, especially for the communities of Gregory Town and Hatchet Bay.” “As a protected area and national park, this will attract people from Harbour Island, and a number of other properties.

We are also hoping that this becomes a model that will be replicated in other national parks. We submitted 43 sites for protection in September 2018, and this was one of them. What we are doing now is pulling this one out to the forefront. This one is a nobrainer. We don’t want this to wait on the other 42. So, this site is currently the top focus and priority,” stated Mr. Carey.

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2019-2020 Infrastructural Projects Planned, Eleuthera Included, says Works Minister

BY The eleutheran news team

Bridges, roads, buildings and airports throughout The Bahamas are among the 260 infrastructure projects that the Ministry of Public Works has on its schedule for the year. The Hon. Desmond Bannister, Minister, highlighted some of them during his recent contribution to the 2019-2020 Budget Debate in the House of Assembly.

Plans are in the making to construct a new airport in North Eleuthera. Minister Bannister told parliamentarians that a modern airport, identical to one to be built in Exuma, is planned and will take several years.

“When aircraft movements in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas are considered, the North Eleuthera airport ranks in the top three, with Marsh Harbour and Exuma whether we consider domestic or international travel. The physical plant is entirely inadequate. Seating is on the outside.

In the morning and in the evening the mosquitoes are out in full force, and when it rains passengers get wet.

Moreover the runway is entirely inadequate,” said Mr. Bannister.

A dock will be constructed in Harbour Island in the amount of $4,702,221.53. Minister Bannister announced Cabinet’s approval to build the dock.

“The dock in Harbour Island is the lifeblood of that community, but for years has been inadequate in size and configuration, and remains in poor condition,” he said. The area surrounding the dock will also be dredged and Customs area refurbished.

Minister Bannister told Parliamentarians that he is aware of the “immense” need for roadworks in Eleuthera. He said preliminary work has been carried out on 38 miles of road from Governor’s Harbour to the North Eleuthera Airport at a cost of $472,196.03.

A contract for $2,803,102.40 for the replacement of Russell Island Bridge that connects Spanish Wells with Russell Island will soon be signed. Minister Bannister said the bridge has been in “bad shape” for a long time and will be replaced with a two land bridge that is 162 feet long and 18 feet wide.

The Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minn-

is, Prime Minister, is expected to visit Abaco soon to sign a $3,863,665.44 contract to repair damage to Queen’s Highway in Hope town.

“Hurricane Floyd caused severe damage to the edge of the Queens Highway, thereby severely eroding the beach and the road. This is a project that is critical to the future of Hope Town,” said Minister Bannister.”

Construction on the Staniard Creek Bridge is scheduled to begin this year. This bridge is the first of three major bridges in Andros that must be replaced. The Public Works’ Minister informed Parliamentarians that the engineering work has been completed. He said excavation work will also be done on the creek to rescue it from its current state of stagnation and restore healthy tidal flow.

The search for consultancies for the design of the long-awaited Long Island Airport will soon begin.

“By the end of 2019, Long Islanders and visitors alike will have access to two of the most beautiful ecological sites that I have ever seen in my life. And then we will start to develop their Airport,” said Minister Bannis-

ter.

The amount of $1,346,474.41 to construct, create parking and pave the Monument Road in Long Island has been approved.

“The monument road is three miles of torturous driving over rocks and through bush to get to the most beautiful vista in the Bahamas, and perhaps in the world. The view from the Columbus monument is incomparable,” said Mr. Bannister.

Furthermore, construction of a new bridge in Newton’s Cay is scheduled to begin in July. Cabinet has allocated $548,263.36 to carry out the work.

Moreover, he noted that the damaged classrooms at North Andros High School will be rebuilt. “The recent devastating fire at the North Andros High School will not be permitted to cripple educational opportunities. As I speak, officers of the Ministry of Public Works are on the ground in North Andros assessing the challenges. We will scope the work and rebuild the damaged classrooms so that the educational environment is better than it ever was,” said Minister Bannister.

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FIRST RESPONDERS LAUDED FOR THEIR QUICK ACTIONS AFTER Several People Injured when Tour Bus Overturns At approximately 10:30 am on Monday morning June 24, 2019, Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) officers received a report that a tour bus had overturned on Queen’s Highway, just south of the township of Rock Sound.

On arrival at the scene a short time later, Police confirmed that an ‘Eleuthera Adventure Tours’ tour bus, carrying 32 passengers with one driver and 2 staff members had been involved in the incident which involved no other vehicles.

The passengers were visitors to the island who had arrived in at Princess Cays on board the Carnival Cruise lines ship - Ecstasy, on Monday morning.

Local emergency response services, including ambulance, fire, and other volunteer services with a ‘jaws of life’, as well as a team from The Island School, arrived quickly on scene according to eyewitness accounts.

Authorities reported that of the 35 people involved, nearly everyone in the tour bus had sustained some level of injury and were all transported to the Rock Sound clinic for treatment. Nine (9) visitors, however, were reported to have sustained serious injuries, with two stated then to be in

critical condition.

Further arrangements were made by authorities to have victims with serious or critical injuries to be airlifted for further treatment.

The Public Hospital Authority (PHA), in a statement released on Monday afternoon, confirmed that five (5) people who had been seriously injured in the accident had been airlifted to medical facilities in New Providence and South Florida.

The statement also said, “The Public Hospitals Authority’s Agencies namely the Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) and National Emergency Medical Service (NEMS) activated their Mass Casualty Incident Protocol.

NEMS assisted with ground transportation and deployed ambulances to the Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) to receive the injured. An URGENT call for blood donations had also been issued.

CBS 4 miami, reported that four passengers airlifted to Fort Lauderdale

by US military were taken to Broward Health Medical Centre and their conditions were improving.

Traffic Investigators from New Providence were quickly mobilized to

the island to help in determining the cause of the accident which according to authorities is still under investigation.

On Thursday, June 27th, the Carnival Ecstasy returned to Jacksonville, Florida.

The cruise line issued a statement on Thursday, saying that members of Carnival’s CareTeam had been providing assistance and support to the impacted guests and their family members. It also stated that all excursions by the tour operator had been suspended.

The statement continued, “We would

like to offer our apologies for those impacted by this accident. We appreciate and thank all those who assisted and treated our guests, including the first responders in Eleuthera, United States Coast Guard, Bahamian officials, Broward County Fire Rescue and medical professionals at Broward Health Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale and Doctor’s Hospital in Nassau. We are very grateful for their efforts.”

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Group Photo: Young ‘Queens’ within the Generation Esthers organization celebrate the end of a year of activities, community service and learning experiences at the 1st Annual Scholarship Ball.

Generation Esthers 1st Annual Scholarship Ball Successful press release

The evening of Saturday, 1st June, 2019 was very special for the “Queens” of Generation Esthers, a non-profit organization in Harbour Island.

The 1st Annual Scholarship Ball was held and the queens shone in their evening gowns of black, white, gold, and royal blue as they were crowned.

It was a delightful evening enhanced by the always entertaining Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Martin Grant. The locally prepared food was delicious! There was a Junkanoo Rush-Out that ev-

eryone enjoyed. The night was filled with music, laughter, fun, prizes and a silent auction was held.

The queens danced the night away under the stars, on the deck that overlooked a moonlit harbour at the Romora Bay Resort and Marina.

The Scholarship Ball ended a year of activities for the queens that included community clean-ups, life skills workshops, and feeding the elderly, to name a few. One aim of the ball is to raise finances to help the graduates’ tertiary education. The local business community has embraced the vision of Richette and Chanella Percentie,

One Eleuthera Foundation Thanks Supporters and Volunteers Who Responded to the Tour Bus Accident in South Eleuthera The response from the local emergency personnel was outstanding and must be recognized. One Eleuthera Foundation would like to thank the supporters and volunteers of the South Eleuthera Emergency Partners (SEEP) and the Health Association of Central Eleuthera (H.A.C.E) for the great support shown during the accident.

Let us continue to keep those who volunteer with SEEP and HACE in our thoughts and prayers, especially the ambulance and fire truck drivers.

An emergency is a serious, unexpected, and often dangerous situation requiring immediate action. Thankfully, Eleutherans have organizations such as SEEP and H.A.C.E that can be depended on to respond to such situations.

Both organizations are highly dependent upon volunteers and donations in order to remain operational, providing emergency services throughout the island. We encourage you, the general public to support SEEP and H.A.C.E, through volunteering and or donat-

ing.

For more information on how you can volunteer and donate please contact Kenwood Cartwright (SEEP) at 242-470-8202 and Jason Thompson (H.A.C.E) at 242-332-3178/ 242359-7586.

One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) is a nonprofit development organization incorporated in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. It was founded to identify, invest in and strengthen unique, high-quality projects that improve Eleuthera’s communities and further the economic, environmental and social development of the island. OEF invests in organizations that focus on one or more of our five programmatic areas – health and wellness, economic development, environment, culture and heritage, and education. One Eleuthera Foundation represents professionals and organizations that share a commitment to a future built on the responsible development of our island’s many assets and its people.

founders of Generation Esthers. Local sponsors included Queen Conch, Coral Sands Hotel, Captain Bob’s, Sip Sip Restaurant, Arthur’s Bakery, Princess Street Gallery, Ashley’s Closet and the Romora Bay Resort and Marina.

Generation Esthers anticipates an even bigger event next year as Harbour Islanders and others learn more about its goals and embrace the vision to inspire the queens to discover, develop, and dominate their gifts!

Rush-Out: Junkanoo celebration at the Generation Esthers Scholarship Ball.

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June/July, 2019

RELATIONSHIPS: Honour in Marriage—A Shared Responsibility

By Teri M. Bethel

For most men, honour, and respect are huge elements in their relationship with women. It’s usually the top consideration with sex coming in at a close second place. Sadly, both are the most intentionally withheld elements—even in so-called Christian marriages. Many of the marital challenges couples experience today is rooted in the lack of honour and respect.

Most women want to have a great marriage; they want a dreamy storybook romance. Instead, they feel saddled with a nightmare that continues even after they wake up. One, I might add, that some helped to create with their mouths. Although many wives are remorseful when they let their mouths run away with them, they still have difficulty accepting responsibility for their actions. Instead of making excuses and casting blame, perhaps a better posture would be to own up to your mistakes. Did you know that much of your problems can be fixed just by putting a guard over your mouth? It really can pave the way for a healthier relationship.

I Can’t Help It! A lady owned up about her mouth getting the best of her when she spoke to her husband. She admitted to using her tongue like a knife to cut him to shreds. He could do no right. If he did good or looked great, she would not tell him lest he became full of pride, yet she wanted him to affirm her.

She wanted him to come home after work to spend time with her and the kids. When he did, she complained about everything he said and did.

Although she hated undermining him, she said, “I can’t help it!” Almost every day she emasculated him in front of the children. Every night he went to bed feeling broken, assaulted, and worthless. Instead of going home to Madam Cranky, he began staying out with a lady who he felt treated him with dignity.

What Does Honor Look Like?

So ladies, what does honouring your husband look like? It means you lift up your man. Sure he has some chinks in his armour but guess what? So do you. Instead of focusing on the chinks, why not focus on his positives; they were not so difficult to see before you got married. Revisit how you speak to him; emasculation is not an option in a healthy relationship regardless of what the issues are. You need to take how you treat your mate up a notch. Mike

Murdoch says it this way: “Speak to the king in your man, and not the fool.” You see whomever you address, will rise to the fore.

Another lady complained that her husband had lost interest in their intimate time. She claimed she had to be the one who always pursued him. In talking with him, he explained that he would prefer to remain celibate than to lay with his disrespectful wife. Within ten minutes of being in their presence, I understood his point.

Her belittling was overwhelming.

Should Men Honor Their Wives?

Honour applies to women too, so you gentlemen don’t get away so quickly. Men can take honour and respect for their wife up a notch also. Far too many women are complaining about how their husbands speak to them privately and in public. How does it benefit you to pull down God’s gift to you? If you want her to treat you like the king of your home, shouldn’t you be treating her like your queen?

Husbands, honour and respect your wives. If you treat her with tenderness and respect, those old hardened areas will soften in time. But if you are abrasive, you are only creating more callouses, and the cycle will continue.

I’ve heard several men boast in their wife’s presence how they elevated her from the gutter to prominence with him.

That’s not honour, that’s demeaning, humiliating and unkind. Where a person comes from or what they have, does not define who they are. Life is a journey; one which has hills and valleys. Just because you were on a hill when you met does not make you a better person than someone from the valley.

An Apology is In Order As a matter of fact, the Bible says that the two have become one, so whatever she is, that is what you are. What did you call her again? Well, an apology is never too late for dishonouring your spouse. If you are sincere, it can create a good foundation to rebuild your relationship.

You may be the breadwinner, a bigger, stronger, domineering man, but that does not make you the boss. You are your wife’s husband, lover, head of the home and priest of the family. Lead her with firm but gentle respect. Don’t you know that you are hurting yourself when you hurt your wife? Do you really want to get stuck in an “I’m good enough” rut? Your spouse may not agree with your point of view on the matter.

View Teri Bethel’s Books (http://booksbybethel.com/teri-m-bethel/) www.PaintWithTexture.com www.BooksByBethel.com

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‘through JULY 2019 highlights in JULY 2019

Eleuthera’s Summer of Festivals: Harbour Island Goombay Summer Festival Friday, Jul. 5, 2019 to Saturday, Jul. 6, 2019 12:00pm - 12:00am Entertainment: Fanshawn Evans, Kikie the Fire Goddess, 123 band, Metellus Chipman, Colyn McDonald and DJ Fadda Chippy. Activities: hang the clothes competition, watermelon eating competition, catch the chicken competition and conch cracking competition. Location: Bay Street, Harbour Island, Bahamas. Contact Information: Harbour Island Tourist Office - 242-333-2621

9th Annual Fishermen’s Fest Friday, Jul. 19, 2019 to Saturday, Jul. 20, 2019 Location: Homecoming Site, Spanish Wells, North Eleuthera, Bahamas. Contact Information: Mr. Lynton Pinder - (242) 333-4409, info@fishermensfest.com Entertainment: Friday Night - High Rock Band and Da Rhythm Band (starting at 7:30 pm) Evening Admission: $10 plus free drink ticket. Saturday Fun Day (Food & Games): From 11am Saturday Night - (starting at 8:00 pm): Modern Vintage Reunion Band, Funky D & Geno D with Da Rhythm Band Evening Admission: $15

Bay Fest (Hatchet Bay) Wed., July. 31, 2019 to Monday, Aug. 5, 2019 Entertainment this year include: live band performances featuring the RBPF Police Band (Fri thru Sunday), Comedy Show and Fashion Show (Friday night), Blaudie (Saturday night), Fanshawn (Sunday night). DJ sounds: Fadda Chippy, DJ Hype, hosted by King Cloud, also: Native food, drinks and games. Proceeds will go towards community projects.Contact Information: Melissa Dean (Chairperson) (242) 551-0538

Back to The Bay (Tarpum Bay) Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019 to Monday, Aug. 5, 2019. Location: Homecoming Site, Queen’s Highway, Tarpum Bay, South Eleuthera. Contact Information: Mr. Ronald Carey Jr - (242) 553-6351

Community Events: SOUTH ELEUTHERA DISTRICT 46th Independence Celebrations FRIDAY JULY 5 Flag Day Service - Ocean Hole Park @10:00am, Talent Show—Green Castle Primary School @7:00pm SUNDAY JULY 7 Church Service — St Luke’s Anglican Church, Rock Sound @11:00am.

MONDAY JULY 8 Speech & Graphic Design Competition - Freedom Park, Rock Sound @7:00pm. TUESDAY JULY 9, 2019 Ecumenical Service, Cultural Explosion, Police Drill, Fireworks, Junkanoo Rushout.

Homecoming Site, Rock Sound @8:00pm (Refreshments will be served).

46th Independence Celebrations - Central Eleuthera District Location: Administrative Grounds, Governor’s Harbour. Friday, July 5th - National Pride T-Shirt Day; Judging of Best Independence Decorated Business; Food stalls; Independence Motorcade (2pm); Flag Raising Ceremony (4pm). Sunday, July 7th - Church Worship Service (11am), Tuesday, July 9th - Food Stalls; Opening Ceremony (9pm); Cultural Show (9:15pm); Ecumenical Service (10:30 pm); RBPF March Pass (11:45pm); Flag Raising Ceremony (11:55pm); Fireworks (12:00 midnight), Junkanoo Rushout.

Holidays and Observance Days: Wednesday, July 10th - Bahamas 46th INDEPENDENCE DAY (public holiday) Monday, August 5th - Emancipation Day/ August Monday (public holiday)

2019 Independence Celebrations - Spanish Wells District

Friday, July 5th: National Pride Day Selfie/Usie Competition. (Prizes for the most patriotic photo) Tuesday, July 9th: Independence Motorcade (Beginning at 5:15pm at Food Fair. Best decorated vehicle wins a prize!). Wednesday, July 10th: Independence Bash (Celebrating 46 Years Under The Theme: “United We Stand Bahamas... Together We Can”. Beginning at the Ballpark at 7:30pm. Celebrations include teen and adult competitions, prizes, live entertainment, fireworks, and food and drink stalls.) Wear your national colours and come celebrate with us!

Summer Camp Events: Haynes Library Summer Camp 2019 Around the World in 30 Days!

July 1st, 2019 to August 9th, 2019 9am to 2pm, Open to ages 5 - 12, Our Activities: Games, Arts & Crafts, Read to Succeed, Field Trips, and more!

Lunch & Snack provided. To sign up, Call 332-2877 Or Visit Haynes Library

Royal Bahamas Police Summer Camp Program The Police Summer Camp program begins on Monday, July 1st, and will run for four weeks, closing out on Friday, July 26th.

Elite

Customs Brokers *DHL Courier *Brokerage *Trucking; Tel: 332-3066

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20th Annual Artie Johnson All Eleuthera Youth Summer Tennis Camp & Tennis For Hunger Monday, July 15th to Friday, July 27th, 2019. Venue: Knowles Tennis Courts Palmetto Point, Eleuthera

Bahamas Conference of the Methodist Church Camp Symonette 2019 “Kingdom Kids, Blessed not Bullied” Venue: Camp Symonette, James’ Cistern Eleuthera Children’s Camp Ages: 8 yrs. – 12 yrs.

Date: 8th – 12th July, 2019 Cost: $150 Teen Camp Ages: 13yrs. – 15 yrs.

Date: 14th – 19th July, 2019 Cost: $150 Registration forms are available from all Methodist Churches, Bahamas Conference of the Methodist Church Office or at the Bahamas Methodist Habitat website: methodisthabitat.org Campers traveling from New Providence and other islandse of the Bahamas are encouraged to liaise with the BCMC Conference Office to arrange return travel. (Travel costs not included in Camp cost).

SPACES - Eleuthera Summer Program of Arts and Crafts in memory of Eunice Sands

August 6th - 16th Wesley Methodist Church Hall (Palmetto Point) Ages 8-16.

Contact: Karen Crean (242-557-7075) or (242-332-2924)

School Events: SUMMER VACATION - School’s OUT: Public Schools Reopen on September 2nd, 2019.

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Eleuthera Jr BasebalL league

Hosts BBA’s U12 Baseball Nationals in Palmetto Point & Rock Sound

Little League: EJBL teams stand with visiting competitors, along with BBA Officials and Local Eleuthera Officials during the Opening Ceremony of the U12 Baseball Nationals hosted in Eleuthera.

BY The eleutheran news team

President of the Eleuthera Junior Baseball League (EJBL), Mr. Larry Forbes on Friday, June 21st, 2019, expressed his delight in the EJBL hosting the Bahamas U12 Baseball Nationals on island this year, for the Bahamas Baseball Association (BBA) - the governing body for baseball in the Bahamas. “In previous years all of the U12 tournaments have been held in Grand Bahama, so this is the first year they are venturing out into another island to try to grow the sport in the Family Islands.

“We really welcome this opportunity to host the tournament in Eleuthera… It’s a very new thing, but this tournament is very important, because the winner of this tournament gets to represent The Bahamas at the regional qualifier in Curacao this year held on July 13-20 for the chance to qualify to compete in the Little League Baseball World Series 2019, hosted in Williamsport, Pennsylvania in the United States, on August 15-25. So, this is big time. We are very happy to be able to host it.

“This year we tried two venues, with one in Rock Sound and one in Palmetto Point. It’s working well, but the logistics of moving people about proved to be a challenge. We are hoping for good fan participation and we are excited. It’s a great opportunity for Eleuthera, and if it works well, we will grow this tournament. Five teams are competing this weekend, with two from Grand Bahama, including GB Little League, and Legacy Baseball, JBLN from New Providence, Andros All Stars, and Eleuthera All Stars. We are privileged to have these guys visiting, so, it’s a good tournament, and we welcome the challenge.”

When asked about the home team’s performance during the first day of competition, president Forbes shared, “We didn’t show well today… Somehow our kids are not performing as yet when ‘on stage’, but I think it’s a matter of not playing sufficient

games throughout the year. We may get in six matchups, and that’s not enough during a season for baseball teams.

You’ve got to practice to become good.

However, we play Andros this evening, which is also a new league, similar to ourselves, so, we are looking forward to a win,” smiled Forbes. “We must get a win tonight.”

The Eleuthera team did win the Friday evening game against Andros with a score of 29 to 2, allowing them to move through to compete in the playoff games held in Rock Sound on Sunday - the final day of play. The Eleuthera All-Stars went up against JBLN out of New Providence, and conceded the game with a 12 to 1 finish. In the other playoff matchup, the two Grand Bahama teams met up with GB Little League competing against Legacy Baseball. GBLL won by a hair, finishing with 12 runs to Legacy’s 11.

In the finals, Eleuthera played in the bronze medal matchup against Legacy Baseball. Legacy finished with 9 runs to Eleuthera’s 2, nabbing the bronze medal win. GB Little League faced JBLN in the gold medal championship match, showing them up nicely, with a 12 to 1 win. So, JBLN took home the silver, and GB Little League walked away with the gold - guaranteeing them a spot in the Curacao qualifiers in July.

During the weekend tournament, Elline Sineus, a local coach with the Twin City Li’l Legends little league baseball organization in Palmetto Point, expressed the organization’s gratitude to the community of Palmetto Point for their assistance with the renovations Article Continued Page 29

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Oceanic Whitetip

By CEI

Shark populations have declined dramatically since the onset of industrial fishing, with pelagic, or open ocean, shark species often hit hardest.

Shark-related tourism in The Bahamas contributes an estimated $114 million USD to the Bahamian economy annually.

Having recognized the value of live sharks, The Bahamas protected these animals by banning commercial longlining in 1993 and subsequently banning the commercial trade of sharks throughout all 630,000 square kilometers of Bahamian waters in 2011.

Establishing this Bahamian Shark Sanctuary was a conservation milestone that firmly positioned The Bahamas as a world leader in shark conservation, research and tourism.

“Despite the fact that the Bahamas is a shark sanctuary and sharks are protected here, there’s still a lot that we don’t know. Their populations continue to decline and are under severe fishing pressure.” -Eric Carey, Bahamas National Trust One shark that has benefited from these forward-thinking policies is the oceanic whitetip.

Once considered to be one of the most abundant apex predators in the world’s oceans, the oceanic whitetip is now listed as “critically endangered” in the western Atlantic. An iconic shark with a storied history and photogenic presence, lawmakers are only now starting to take action to protect these enigmatic fish on the global stage.

This species was added to Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species, an act that enforces the trade and

commercial capture of these sharks around the world, and was also added to the Endangered Species List in the United States in recent years.

A recovery plan for these sharks was only recently initiated in 2018, with much information still missing that is critical to the conservation of the species.

These listings were partially based on data gathered at the southern tip of Cat Island, The Bahamas, where adult oceanic whitetips congregate in numbers reminiscent of their past abundance. Researchers from the Cape Eleuthera Institute, Microwave Telemetry, Inc., Florida International University, Wildlife Conservation Society, University of North Florida, New England Aquarium, and The Moore Charitable Foundation have deployed over ninety pop-up archival satellite tags on oceanic whitetips at this location in years past. These tags record depth, temperature and location for periods up to one year, at which time they self-detach from the shark and report their data to orbiting satellites.

The scientists have also collected various samples and conducted ultrasounds of female sharks to identify pregnancies.

Satellite tracks of pregnant sharks have revealed a hotspot of activity in the Windward Passage, a straight between Haiti and Cuba that connects the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Now, after nearly ten years of research on adult sharks in Bahamian waters, the international team of scientists will follow oceanic whitetip mothers to an area where they may give birth and where pups might spend the first few years of their lives. Discovering these nursery areas and protecting the sharks there is a critical step in promoting the recovery of

this species.

As the movements of highly endangered sharks like the oceanic whitetip are better understood, international efforts will be required to conserve them across every life stage and will rely on the participation of numerous countries across the region. The small island nation of The Bahamas has positioned itself as a world leader in this regard, and provides the starting point for expeditions that can pave the way for the conservation of sharks in the wider Atlantic and Caribbean.

a

28 www. EleutheraNews . com

loc al +p lu s

June/July, 2019

Four local Students Emerge

as Finalists In ‘Laws of Life’ Nat’l Competition

BY The eleutheran news team

Winners in the 2019 Laws of Life Essay Competition Bahamas were recognized for their hard work at the Annual Awards Ceremony held on Thursday, June 6th at the British Colonial Hilton Hotel in New Providence, where 70 student finalists, out of a total of 2700+ participants, in the Templeton World Charity Foundation/Ministry of Education Laws of Life Essay Competition were honoured and awarded.

Honourees, along with their parents, teachers, administrators and other wellwishers, came from schools in New Providence, Grand Bahama, Abaco, Eleuthera and Mayaguana to receive their awards and accolades. They were encouraged by the Hon. Mark Humes. M.P., Fort Charlotte (who represented the Minister of Education, Hon. Jeffrey Lloyd), Dr. Andrew Serazin, President, Templeton World Charity Foundation, and Ms. Janell Watkins and Mr. Michael Miller, former winners in several divisions of the competition. Entertainment was provided by the C.R. Walker Senior High School Pop Band.

Four students from Eleuthera, were amongst the winning finalists, including Torii Knowles from Central Eleuthera High School, who placed third in the Junior Division. He was accompanied by two of his peers from Central Eleuthera High School, Jahzara Taylor, and Wallace Sineus Jr., who were recognized as Honourable Mention Winners, also in the Junior Division. Michaella Lockhart of North Eleuthera High School was also awarded as an Honourable Mention Winner in the Junior Division.

With three finalists amongst the winners in the Essay Competition, Ms. Marlene Benwell - Language Arts teacher at Central Eleuthera High School, was also awarded as the teacher in the Junior Division (public schools) with the most finalists. Central Eleuthera High School was also awarded as the public school with the most finalists in the Junior Division.

--About the Essay Competition: The ‘Laws of Life’ Essay Competition is annual essay competition based on Sir John Templeton’s Laws of Life. Open to students in grades 5-12 and local college students age 25 and under. It is an off- shoot of an international program and is held to an extremely high standard.

Organized and coordinated by the Department of Education’s Writing Unit team of three – Ms. Liesl Wright, Mrs. Annamaria Smith and Mrs. Linda Collie, this competition has set an extremely high standard of efficiency and credibility. The team works in collaboration with the Templeton World Charity Foundation’s Committee, led by Mrs. Mena Griffiths and assisted by Mrs. Elma Garraway. While other competitions have entries near one hundred, the ‘Laws of Life’ Competition has distinguished itself by

encouraging students nationwide to enter, thus receiving entries, this year, of over two thousand.

Once a student enters the competition, anonymity is the first order of business. A number is assigned to each essay before it is seen by markers and judges. A team of markers, comprising teachers that grade essays on a national examination level, has been assembled to deal with the daunting task of grading the large number of entries each year. Each essay is graded by two markers. All essays receiving 90% and above are then passed on to the judging panel of five for further deliberations. The winners are then determined and notified. This process takes approximately six months.

Captions: 1. Junior Division Honourable Mention Winners receiving awards from Mrs. Elma Garraway, Laws of Life Bahamas Committee.

2. Junior Division Winners - 1st Place- Nadya EdwardsSummit Academy, 2nd Place - Taylor Adderley -St. Augustine’s College, 3rd Place -Craig Simmons -St. Augustine’s College,3rd

Place- Torii Knowles - Central Eleuthera High School, 5th Place - Caleb Ferguson - St. Augustine’s College, 6th Place - Danielle Williams- Queen’s College — at British Colonial Hilton Nassau.

3. Mena Griffiths, Bahamas Laws of Life Committee Head, presenting award to Central Eleuthera High School Teacher, Ms. Marlene Benwell for most finalists in the Junior Division

Lo c a l Eleuthera’s Oldest Resident has Passed Away, at 106 years 2019

U12 Nationals in Eleuthera Continued from Page. 26 done on the softball park in Palmetto Point, ahead of the U12 Nationals, bringing it ‘back to life’, and ready to host the visiting teams from Nassau, Grand Bahama and Andros.

Special thanks were expressed to Michael Johnson, Rodney Pinder Jr., Anthony Culmer, Clifford Sands, Jason Thompson, Cornell Pinder, Butch Johnson, Terrance Sands, Leslie Sineus, Bob Colman, Neville Sands, Local Government, Andy Deal, Bryan Johnson, Renaldo Culmer, Romell Fish Knowles, Ricardo Knowles, MP Hank Johnson, Arnold Culmer, Tom Morales, Jennifer Masley, Mark and Kathy Berner, Byron’s Hardware, The Lumbershed, Elline Sineus construction, Alvin Deal Jr., Delshire Mingo, Audley Mitchel, Jocelyn Pierre, Shaun Deal, Wilson Cooper, Julian Carey, Glen Edwards, Barry Culmer, Trevor sands and Howard Fernander.

Samuel Vincent Neely, affectionately called “Sammy”, the oldest resident on the island of Eleuthera, at the age of 106, passed away on Thursday, June 20th, 2019. Hailing from the township of The Bluff in North Eleuthera, Mr. Neely died while at the Princess Margaret Hospital.

His funeral service was held at 11:00am on Saturday, June 29th, 2019 at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, The Bluff, North Eleuthera, Bahamas. Officiating was Father Shazzbazar Turnquest, and interment followed in The Church Cemetery, The Bluff, North Eleuthera.

Left to cherish his memories were his children and their spouses; Florene Neely, Iona Sands, Dorothy (Livingston) Johnson, Valerie Thompson, Dolly (Bradley) Armbrister, Stephanie Culmer, Velma (Fritz) Pritchard, Betty (Donald) Hudson, Carolyn Neilly, Rexford (Edna) Neely, Paul (Barbara) Neely, Newton (Yvonne) Neely, Tyrone “Tanka” (Shanell) Neely, Joseph Ricardo (Kara) Neely, and Samuel Ted (Shantell) Neely, as well as numerous grandchildren, fifty great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; sister: Laura L. Anderson, niece: Joan Anderson-Hilton; as well as grandnephews and numerous other relatives and friends.

The Eleutheran Newspaper conducted a special profile interview with Mr. Neely during November of 2013, when he was just 100 years old, and about to celebrate his 101st, having been born on December 31st, the final day of the year, in 1912.

Mr. Neely’s story began back when the last century was as new as the current one, and the economic reality in Eleuthera was one of hardship. He grew up with his sister, now well known as Mrs. Laura L. Anderson, the living 101 year-old patroness of the primary school in The Bluff.

Mr. Neely was blessed with many children, the first set with his first wife, Beulah, who sadly passed away after their fourteenth year of marriage, and the latter set with his second wife Norma.

Mr. Neely’s career, he shared then, had begun in farming as a young married man, which continued for many years, until he transitioned into painting. He stopped painting at the age of 83, after finally conceding that he was too weak to carry on that type of work, and at the time of the interview, had quipped mischievously, “I haven’t made a dollar in the 17 years since then.”

Throughout his long life, Mr. Neely also shared that he had had a number of little boats, used for fishing, sharing, that his first was a boat used with a pole, as there were no motors back in those days. “I had three boats that you poled,” he explained, “and later on I was able to get a boat with a motor that I called ‘Lil Dolly’ after one of my daughters... followed by ‘Lil Dolly 2’ and ‘Lil Dolly 3’.

Mr. Neely, at the time of his almost 101 interview,

June/July

29

seemed to be in incredibly good health, with the strength to conduct a walking tour of his well-kept garden and home. He smiled and chuckled near the end of our visit then, saying, “The last day in December, I’ll be one hundred and one (101) years old - I don’t know if I’ll make 200, you know how I does look, I’m liable to go anytime.” However, he was blessed with an amazing five more years with his abundant family and loved ones.

30 www. EleutheraNews . com

RDBF

Lo c a l

June/July, 2019

‘ne rangers’

Continued from Page. 10

his team members and leaders in the Rangers program for their time, talent, and effort invested in the lives of the young cadets. RBDF Instructors in the Ranger Recruit program during 2018/2019; supervised by lead instructor for the Eleuthera program, Leading Seaman Marco King, along with Able Seaman Dershon Sands, were recognized for their sacrifice and commitment to the Eleuthera students. He also recognized the Rangers Parents In Action Group, principals, teachers, parents and guardians for the vital support given to the program, and conveyed congratulations from the Minister of National Security.

Commenting on the content and impact of the Ranger program, Commodore Bethel, said, “Today was an historic moment for us, with Harbour Island becoming the latest Entry. The students enjoyed 40 weeks of intensive training and successfully graduated. Now we will continue to work with them to develop and prepare them, not only in leadership and character, but also for employment in the world beyond high school. Those who wish to continue their education we will encourage them to do so. Right now we have ongoing programs as we speak. Here in Eleuthera we have a Pop band among the Rangers here, and we are grooming a marching band. We also have leadership camp taking place in North Andros this summer, teaching leadership, navigation, survival and life skills and for those interested in joining the Defence Force - we will prepare them to do so. Eight Rangers from Eleuthera will be taking part. Four Rangers from Eleuthera will also be travelling in July to Hocking College in Ohio to engage in certification programs, such as renewable energy, welding and firefighting, along with twenty six Rangers from other islands. Another three Rangers from Eleuthera are also participating in the Rangers Band Camp hosted in New Providence this summer.”

Following his presentation the Rangers showed off their marching and drill skills to a very appreciative crowd of supporters along the grounds of the North Eleuthera High School, in a march off, physical display, drill display, and a march on, just ahead of the presentation of special awards.

Then came the really exciting part of the program for the top performing Ranger Cadets, beginning with the ‘Most Academic Improvement Award’, which went to Kendal Rolle of NEHS. ‘Academic Achievement Awards’ were given to those who had achieved a GPA of 3.00 to 3.49 including; DeAndra Grant - 3.40, Astralia Carey - 3.30, Ellania Johnson - 3.30, Amanda Kemp 3.25, Darrianna Bethel - 3.00, Gabriella Stubbs 3.00, Africa Ferguson - 3.00, Zarian Dean - 3.00, and Don Johnson - 3.00. The ‘Rangers Director Award’, which emphasized exemplary character, was also given to Don Johnson of NEHS. The highest level of Academic Awards, the ‘Commander Defence Force Award’ was given to Ranger Cadets who had achieved a GPA of 3.50 to 4.00, including; Michaella Lockhart - 3.92 (NEHS), Madison Wilson - 3.60 (HIAAS), and Mahalia Lockhart - 3.58 (NEHS).

The final special award conferred during the ceremony was the ‘Minister of National Security Award’ given to the student who displayed the highest level of leadership potential - which went to Astralia Carey of the Harbour Island All Age School.

Awardees: New Rangers who had performed at a high academic level at their respective schools were recognized for their achievements. Parents and organizations who had contributed to the program were also recognized.

Group Photo: New Ranger Cadets pose with RBDF and Local Officials following their Passing Out Parade.

2019

Lo c a l

June/July

31

(Clockwise from top): Newly installed RBDF Ranger Cadets in drill formation, performing for the supportive crowd of officials, family, friends, and community members. MP Rickey Mackey stands next to Able Seaman Marco King who led the Ranger training during the 2018/2019 40 week program on Eleuthera, joined by Commodor Tellis Bethel and Lieutenant Delvonne Duncombe. Female Rangers pose with RBDF and Local Officials. Male Rangers pose with RBDF and Local Officials.

The remaining successful Ranger Cadets to pass out of the Recruit program included; Garvin Adderley, Vernon Neilly, Jada Cash, Layla Isaacs, Tameko Neilly, Ricardo Joseph, Rony Laguerre, Lovemana Joseph, Juantae Brown, Mercedes Munroe, Allyana Henry, Florrena Jean, Jayda Rolle, Princess Joseph, Richard Brown, Luciano Cash, Marceline Jacques, Jahtayo Charlton, Shantia Johnson, Kijuana Ingraham, Carlan Cleare, Claranique Gibson, Brandy Pame, Roseney Jacques, Tiana Cooper, Sadeea Higgs, Quintaesha Johnson, Leondre Goodman, Javarez Barry, Samantha Rock, Andrea Seddembe, Gabriella Sainvil, Alishanay Lewis, Tyqwana Johnson, Marlia Percentie, Shanila Johnson, DeAnn Grant, Mesha Mather, Alicia Grenne, Alvina Saunders, Tatyana Bryan,

Micheline Bernadine, Kendal Oscar, Funtasia Charles, Amanda Kemp, Darianna Bethel, Katie Boute, and Judine Roberts.

Parents In Action leaders, Mrs. Laurel Bullard and Mrs. Dania Anderson, were also specially recognized for their outstanding and dedicated services to the Rangers program, and were presented with plaques and certificates of appreciation.

Lieutenant Delvonne Duncombe, shared briefly following the ceremony, some of the program goals for 2019/2020, saying, “In looking toward next year, we actually started a band here, so we are working to continue establishing them. We want to get the marching band component strengthened as well. We also brought some

go-carts down from Educart, and we’ve started the training for small engine repair, but we have not yet completed that training. Also, we started a drone piloting and photography training program, that we were not able to get fully up and running, so, we hope to continue with that program next year.”

The RBDF through their Ranger Recruit program, has been involved in youth development since 1995, said Commodore Bethel, transforming the life of Ranger Cadets through leadership training, military discipline, community service, cultural and sporting activities. The program has evolved since then, he added, into a vibrant youth organization, with students from 53 schools participating across nine islands within the Bahamas.

32 www. EleutheraNews . com

loc al +p lu s

June/July, 2019

Eleuthera Sickle Cell Warriors Team Up With National Organization

BY The eleutheran news team

Beryl Carey and Alva Culmer, members of the Eleuthera based support group, ‘Eleuthera Sickle Cell Warriors’, and advocates for Sickle Cell awareness in Eleuthera, joined hands with the Bahamas Sickle Cell Association (BSCA), based in New Providence - led by president, Kayla Smith Mortimer, and were both recently appointed as board members, representing the island of Eleuthera.

Since 2008, World Sickle Cell Awareness Day on June 19th has been recognized globally, in order to help increase public knowledge and raise awareness of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and the struggles sufferers and their families go through. The date was chosen to commemorate the day on which a resolution was officially adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations, recognizing SCD as a public health concern.

World Sickle Cell Day was marked by the BSCA through the organization of a national T-Shirt Day on Friday, June 21st, 2019.

They encouraged the general public as well as the corporate community to support their objectives to educate and inform the populace about the disease. All proceeds of the T-Shirt Day were earmarked for the advancement of the BSCA’s objectives of raising public awareness, education, and supporting families dealing with Sickle Cell disease.

BSCA president, Kayla Smith Mortimer, along with board members, including Mrs. Alva Culmer, also paid a courtesy call to Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling on Friday, June 21st, before she demitted office, in commemoration of World Sickle Cell Day. During the remainder of 2019, said Mrs. Culmer, the BSCA would focus on several key areas of awareness and education throughout the Bahamas, adding, “We believe that raising awareness of Sickle Cell disease as a major health issue here in The Bahamas, by advocating for all persons to be screened, can be achieved.”

Numerous activities to promote awareness of Sickle Cell disease throughout the country, are planned by the BSCA for September 2019, which is recognized as Sickle Cell month.

Sickle Cell disease is described by the World Health Organization as one of the world’s most lethal genetic diseases that has severe physical, physchological and social consequences for those affected and their families. An estimated 300,000 children are born every year worldwide with this severe and incapacitating disease, with more than half of them succumbing to the disease before the age of five.

Left: Members of the Bahamas Sickle Cell Association paid a courtesy call upon Governor General, Her Excellency the Most Hon. Dame Marguerite Pindling in recognition of World Sickle Cell Day, at Government House on Friday, June 21, 2019.

(BIS Photo/Letisha Henderson)

33 Lo c a l The Hon. Cornelius A. Smith Sworn In as New Governor General 2019

June/July

as Farewells Bid to Former Governor General Pindling cellency the Most Hon. Dame Marguerite Pindling.

During swearing in ceremonies, Secretary to the Cabinet, Ms. Camille Johnson, read the Royal Commission of Appointment, which was subsequently signed by Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert A. Minnis. Chief Justice of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, the Hon. Mr. Justice Brian Moree administered the Oath of Office.

Prime Minister Minnis delivered remarks and conveyed congratulatory sentiments to the newly-appointed Governor General.

In response, the Hon. C.A. Smith thanked the Prime Minister for recommending him for the post and also thanked the Bahamian people for their support. He vowed to carry out his duties to the best of his abilities.

The Hon. Cornelius A. Smith was sworn in as the nation’s 11th Governor General on Friday, June 28, 2019 before a large audience of Bahamians from all walks of life. His swearing in ceremony was held in Rawson Square amidst much pomp and colourful pageantry.

Just prior, there was a Farewell Salute to the former Governor General, Her Ex-

An Inspection of the Guard of Honor followed, and a reception at the Terrace and Upper Gardens of Government House, Mount Fitzwilliam.

Cornelius Alvin Smith was born on Long Island on April 7, 1937 to Silvanus and Susan Smith. He was an educator by profession, then held a Master’s of Business Administration from the University of Miami, and had substantial careers in

both the public and private sectors.

Notably, as a community and political activist, he entered front-line politics in the early seventies and is a founding member of the governing Free National Movement. He was elected to represent the people of the Marco City constituency in l982 and was re-elected to serve three times.

The new Governor General has served the people of The Bahamas as a senior Minister with the portfolios of Minister of Education (1992-1995), Minister of Public Safety and Immigration (1995-1997), Minister of Tourism (1997-2000) and Minister of Transport and Local Government (2000-2002).

He was appointed The Bahamas Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the United States of America on Monday, September 24, 2007. He has served as Ambassador/Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States; and as Non-Resident Ambassador to Mexico, Malaysia and Columbia; and Non-Resident Ambassador to Panama, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.

He is married to the former Clara Elizabeth Knowles, and the couple has three children.

A Farewell Ceremony was held for

Her Excellency the Most Hon. Dame Marguerite Pindling, ON, GCMG as Governor General of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas in the Upper Gardens of Government House, Mt. Fitzwilliam, June 27, 2019.

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis thanked the Governor General for her love, dedication and commitment to the state as she demitted office after five years.

Dame Marguerite, 87, was sworn in as the tenth Governor General of The Bahamas on July 8, 2014. She was the second woman to hold that post. She is the widow of former First Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, the late Rt. Hon. Sir Lynden Pindling.

As Governor General, Dame Marguerite Pindling was widely admired for giving exceptional service to country, conducting the office with diligence, poise, and grace for five years -- to June 28, 2019.

“Your charitable work included your patronage of a number of organizations, most notably, the Bahamas Red Cross Society, which you served with distinction over many years,” the Prime Minister said.

He also noted that during her five-

Continued On Page 47

Picture this - Eleuthera Methodist Women’s Ministry Group Pay

Visit to Governor General Pindling

Executives and Members of the Women’s Ministry of South and Central Eleuthera Methodist Church called upon Her Excellency the Most Hon. Dame Marguerite Pindling, Governor General, at Government House on June 5, 2019. The group, during their visit to the capital, took tours of both the eastern and western districts of the island, also taking in the historic Fort Fincastle and Fort Charlotte locations. (BIS Photo/Letisha Henderson)

34 www. EleutheraNews . com

Lo c a l

June/July, 2019

Government renews 52-week National Job Creation and Skills Enhancement Programme

Hundreds of participants of the Government’s National Job Creation and Skills Enhancement Programme have been re-engaged for the second year of the employment initiative, beginning Monday 8 July, said Minister of Public Service and National Insurance, the Hon. Brensil Rolle.

The programme, better known as the 52week job programme, started in August 2018 and came to an end on 30 June 2019. One thousand participants have benefited from the initiative so far, according to Minister Rolle.

“Because of the hard work performed by the programme’s participants and the feedback we’ve received from the employers, the Government has decided to renew the programme for another year,” said Mr. Rolle.

“We made a commitment that we would reengage all participants who received a satisfactory report from the various government ministries and departments, and the private sector,” said Minister Rolle.

Mr. Rolle said his ministry is in the process of disseminating re-engagement letters to participants who are scheduled to return to work on

Monday, 8 July.

The National Job Creation and Skills Enhancement Programme is a job initiative of the Government of The Bahamas established to provide the unemployed between the ages of 19 and 30 with hands-on skills aimed at enhancing their ability to find gainful employment.

The programme is designed to include elements of classroom learning through partnerships with the Ministry of Education and the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI); paid internships in the areas of construction, plumbing, electrical installation, hospitality, fashion design, business and information technology; and opportunities for professional certifications.

The National Training Agency provides participants with soft skills and hospitality training, and BTVI provides additional workforce readiness training and a 22-week internship with independent professionals. Private sector companies provide training for participants in a variety of areas, including law, construction, customer service and home maintenance.

Mr. Rolle said programme participants were placed in the public and private sector in New

Ministry of Education to Focus on Professional Development for Teachers The Ministry of Education (MOE) is focused on several key objectives that are expected to usher a “new dispensation” in the educational enterprise, the Hon. Jeff Lloyd, Minister of Education announced in his contribution to the ongoing Budget Debate Wednesday, June 12, 2019.

Minister Lloyd told Parliamentarians that since 2017, the MOE has embarked on an “aggressive” program to reform, refine, and enhance the educational enterprise.

Professional development is just one of the “critical” areas that this is being done.

Minister Lloyd announced several opportunities for teachers. During the upcoming summer vacation period 1800 teachers will participate in summer workshops in more than 30 subject areas. During the annual twoday conclave in August, 400 school administrators will focus on building teamwork, a priority for the Ministry, along with initiatives for the 2019-2020 school year.

“In the coming school year school administrators will be better prepared to deliver, with greater confidence, support to teachers as they implement the Reading Block -- part of the Prime

Minister’s Initiative to improve Grade Three Literacy,” said Minister Lloyd.

Furthermore, the MOE is presently restructuring its career path for teachers which was been temporarily suspended since 2011. The MOE has set aside $219,185.12 in the 2019 – 2020 budget to facilitate the work required to ensure that public school teachers are evaluated by the Career Path unit.

“The Ministry of Education now seeks to re-establish the Career Path System by re-populating the administrative section while re-establishing the assessment process,” said Minister Lloyd.

“The expectations of and demands on instructional leaders are increasing. While excellence is the required standard for all of our teachers, this Ministry is also committed to recognizing and rewarding those who are meeting exceptional standards consistently by supporting the promoting suitably qualified instructional leaders to posts of Master and Senior Teacher.”

He said improved salaries and the reward and recognition of excellent performance are two of the ways that this will be carried out.

By Kathryn Campbell Source: BIS

Providence, Grand Bahama and all of the Family Islands.

He estimated that about 200 participants, engaged by the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Passport Office and the Registrar General’s Department, will work through the week-long break due to the demands of the agencies.

Minister Rolle said that as a direct result of the National Job Creation and Skills Enhancement Programme, many participants have been offered full-time employment in the private sector, and government ministries and departments, including the Water and Sewerage Corporation and the National Insurance Board.

Source: Press Release Ministry of the Public Service and National Insurance 30 June 2019

Minister of Financial Services, Trade and Industry, MP Brent Symonette Resigns Cabinet Post

The Bahamas Cabinet announced in a statement on Sunday evening, June 30th, 2019 that Brent Symonette, Member of Parliament and Minister of Financial Services, Trade and Industry and Immigration has resigned from his ministerial post. The statement reads as follows: “It is notified for general information that the Hon. T. Brent Symonette has tendered his resignation as Minister of Financial Services, Trade and Industry and Immigration, with effect from 1 July 2019.

The Hon. Elsworth Johnson will

assume portfolio responsibility for the Ministry of Financial Services, Trade and Industry and Immigration with effect from 1 July 2019.”

Shortly after this announcement by the Cabinet Office, Prime Minister Hubert Minnis, released a statement, accepting the resignation. No explanation for the development was provided. His statement reads as follows: “I thank Mr. Brent Symonette for his service to the country over many years.

While he will no longer serve in Cabinet his constituents in St. Anne’s will continue to have an MP who cares about them.

I wish Mr. Symonette all the best in his future endeavors.

I have appointed the Hon. Elsworth Johnson to replace Mr. Symonette as the Minister of Financial Services, Trade and Industry and Immigration.

Mr. Johnson is a former president of the Bahamas Bar Association and former Minister of State in the Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Legal Affairs.

I have confidence that Mr. Johnson will serve the country well in his new capacity.”

Source: Cabinet Office and Office of the Prime Minister Commonwealth of The Bahamas 30 June 2019

opinio n

Trash or Waste

By: Andrew L. Burrows andrewburrows1@gmail.com Foam, Plastic, Glass, Paper, Steel, Aluminum! They make up the bulk of the materials that we use today to hold and store our foods, notions, liquids, and an endless list of other items we have. But for all the conveniences these

things provide us, there is another issue we must consider and it is what do we do with all of the empty items once used.

There was a time when our town dump was well able to cope with the regular volume of trash, but that is now history, the dump sites today are severely stressed.

First and foremost, there is no national format for the design and location of dump sites. The local district or town dumps are not handled in any consistent order, and is open and unsupervised.

Trash is simply dumped at the most convenient location, and if that is at the entrance, then so-be-it!

We have long professed and proclaimed our love for this beautiful home we call The Bahamas, and especially our island of Eleuthera. But our ways of expressing our love is very strange. We simply ignore what we and others are doing by pretending not to see the ever present paper, bottles, cans and every other form of trash on our streets. We can always blame the government for the condition of the dump site or the litter on the street, because it is collecting taxes from us and is responsible for maintaining the dump and cleaning the streets. Experience to date has proven that there is more to the story; we are not holding ourselves ac-

countable to ourselves. We are the guilty ones, and no one should be coming behind us to pick up what we drop or throw onto the side of the road.

There have been all kinds of efforts made by individuals and groups to clear our streets and beaches of the neverending cycle of trash and litter, but there is still the need for a lasting solution to the problem, because the problem is not the litter, the problem is US! Instead of bending down and picking up what has dropped, we proudly ignore the fact and pretend it was someone else who may have responsibility for causing litter to be where it is.

One thing our Colonial past has instilled in us is that we do not own the environment around us. You may have a title Deed to the property, but the resources above, on, or below it belongs to them, and it is no wonder we walk the streets but never behave like owners! We also have become totally reliant on imported labour, and have demonstrated to our children that someone else will come behind and collect what they drop or leave sitting where it was used. Where is our love of country? We are ashamed to be seen picking up our own waste! God have mercy if it is someone else’s trash!

At present we do not know the solution to our problem. So we will continue to import into this country all of the many junk products that quickly add to

Student On Holiday in New Providence

dies after Shark Attack

On Wednesday, June 26th, 2019, the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism issued a statement about the victim of a fatal shark attack near Rose Island, off of New Providence. The victim, 21-year-old, Jordan Lindsey, from California, was said to have been on holiday with her family.

The statement said, “The Ministry of Tourism, on behalf of the Government and the people of The Bahamas expresses its condolences and deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of the victim of Wednesday’s shark attack off Rose Island, near New Providence. Details are still being gathered and confirmed, but preliminary reports indicate that the female visitor was snorkeling near Rose Island around

2:00 p.m. ET when the incident occurred.

“She was brought to shore and transported to hospital in New Providence, where she was pronounced dead. Investigations into the incident are ongoing and further details will be released when available. In the meantime, the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources has issued precautionary advisories to the public.”

In a tribute, The Lindsey family said, “Jordan Lindsey was a beloved daughter, sister, girlfriend, and friend… She had the most beautiful, gentle soul and she will be missed deeply.” Jordan was reported to have been enrolled as a student at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, studying communications. Her family set

up a GoFundMe page to cover the costs of her funeral and returning her body to California, which saw a pouring in of support and condolences, raising nearly three times the target amount. “Part of the money raised will be going to the Gentle Barn in California, because Jordan loved the Gentle Barn and would have wanted them to have help too,” shared the Lindsey family.

The precautionary advisory issued by the Bahamas Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources, told the public to, “exercise extreme caution in and around the waters of New Providence, adjacent islands and cays, in particular the areas of northern shoreline of New Providence, the northeastern shoreline of Paradise Island, Rose Island and along the Montagu Foreshore.

“The public is further advised to avoid the cleaning or discarding of fish waste in the water as this practice attracts sharks into areas often utilized for swimming by the public and our guests. Further, if a shark is seen in the swimming area, persons are advised to leave the

June/July, 2019

35

our waste problem and hopefully create more jobs for more immigrants from other countries, because our little darlings can’t be seen getting their hands soiled, picking up what they dropped or allowed to be blown around by the wind.

Have you noticed the number of vehicles on this island? The strange thing is, about a third of them are permanently parked, not used because they are unrepairable and there is no system of disposal. It is useless holding on to a vehicle that parts can no longer be found to repair them, and as long as they sit, they are only further deteoriating.

Our Lord Jesus told the story of a man who starts to build a house but did not take time to calculate the cost of the project; He said that man will be the object of scorn by his neighbours because he could not finish what he started. We also are the object of scorn because we boast of the natural beauty of this island, but the one thing that degrades that beauty is our trash! It may come as a surprise to you, but many of the things we import contains more packaging than goods. What do we do with all that trash? …… maybe the answer is ‘blowing in the wind’.

Humans were created to ‘maintain’ the Earth, not pollute it!

water and in no circumstance molest or play with the animal. Also, if injured and bleeding while in the water, it is recommended that you leave the water as sharks are attracted to blood.

The Public is encouraged to report all sightings to the Public Authority,” the statement concluded.

36 www. EleutheraNews . com

Crime News

June/July, 2019

Police Contact Numbers

Reports issued by the RBPF locally.

Reports are printed to keep the public informed of the incidents of crime that are reported within our communities. All reports are to be treated as allegations only.

Eleuthera Reports Arrest reference to Causing Harm.

At about 7:20am on Tuesday 4th June 2019, police while at the Governor’s Harbour Police station arrested and cautioned a Palmetto Point make in reference to a complaint of Causing Harm made against him. He was later released from custody pending further investigations Damage / Causing Harm A male reported to the Governors Harbour Police Station that sometime around 7:15am on Wednesday 5th June 2019 he got into an argument with a family member who produced a box cutter and then grabbed him by the neck damaging his chain valued at $600.00. Police action requested.

A Supt at the District Headquarters conducted a confrontation between the two, and they were warned to be of good behaviour.

Police Assistance On Saturday 8th June, 2019, at about 2:09pm, police received a report that a resident of Central Eleuthera was logged into Face Book threatening to commit suicide. Police assistance requested. Police contacted close family who stated that the person in question is on medication. Arrangements were later made for an evaluation visit to a doctor at the Palmetto Point Clinic.

Suspects Interviewed and Charge On Saturday 08th June 2019 about 12:00pm police at the Governors Harbour Police Station interviewed three adult males of Hatchet Bay in reference to Disorderly Behaviour, Resisting Arest and Assaulting a Police Officer. They were charged with the offences and subsequently released on bail to appear before the Governors Harbour Magistrate’s Court.

Suspect Interview and Charge On Saturday 08th June 2019 about 12:00pm police at the Governors Harbour Police Station interviewed two adult males of Hatchet Bay who were subsequently charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs.

They were later released on bail to appear before the Governors Harbour Magistrate’s Court.

Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs Police at the G.H.P.S. reported cautioning and arresting one adult male of Rainbow Bay, on Friday 14th June, 2019, sometime around 6:05pm in James Cistern, after conducting a search of his person in reference to Dangerous Drugs and Firearms. Dur-

ing the search officers retrieved a plastic containing a grassy type substance suspected of being Marijuana. He was transported to the G.H.P.S. for processing. He was charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs contrary to section 29(6) and 29(2)b of the Dangerous Drugs Act, Chapter 228.

He was subsequently released on bail in the amount of $500.00 to appear in the Magistrates court.

Disturbance Report/Stabbing - On Sunday 16th June, 2019 sometime around 3:30am an anonymous caller contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station via phone and reported that there is a fight in the area of a Club in James Cistern. At 3:50am on 16.6.19 a Nurse C/O James Cistern Clinic contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station and informed that there is a male at the clinic with a stab wound to the rear of his head. Police assistance requested. Police recorded a written statement from an adult male who stated that he was sitting on the road side of Queens Highway near the James Cistern Dock with a few friends when he saw a group of males fighting in the area across from the Club and went to stop the fight when a male known to him from James Cistern stabbed him to the head with a black handle knife causing a wound. Statement is attached to the file.

Investigation continues into this matter.

Causing Harm - On Sunday 16th June, 2019 sometime around 3:47am an adult male of James Cistern came to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station and reported that sometime around 3:00am on 16.6.19 while in the area of a Club in JC he had an altercation with a male he knows to be of James Cistern who struck him to the left side of his head with a rock causing injuries. Police action requested.

At 3:50am on 16/6/19 Cpl 2657 Wallace issued the complainant with a hospital form to seek medical assistance and informed him to return to the G.H.P.S on completion to give a written statement.

At 4:40am he came in at the G.H.P.S and informed that he was not requesting any further police action in relation to this matter.

House Breaking Stealing Report - An adult female of Governors Harbour, came to the Governors Harbour Police station at about 9:30pm on the 17.6.19 and reported that sometime between 8:00am and 8:00pm on the 17.6.19, some unknown person(s) broke and entered her home and stole about $300:00in US currency. Police action was requested. Police visited the scene and initiated the investigation of significant leads into this matter.

Stealing From a Vehicle - On Wednesday 19th June 2018 at 2:20pm an adult female came to the Governors Harbour Police Station and reported that on Tuesday 18th June 2019 about 5:00pm while ar the Queen’s Bath located Gregory Town some unknown person/s entered her vehicle through an unlocked door and stole several important items. Police action requested. Police made checks of the immediate area in an effort to locate the stolen items and to locate and poten-

HeadQuarters (GH) Governor’s Harbour OR O/C Governor’s Harbour Gov.Harb. Airport Station Deep Creek Station Tarpum Bay Station Rock Sound Station

332-3500 332-2111 332-2117 332-2723 332-2323 334-8207 334-4033 334-2244

tial witnesses. A person of interest is being sought in connection to this matter.

House Breaking – Police Information At about 12:15pm on Thursday 20th the occupants of a rental house near a beach in Governor’s Harbour, reported that between10:00am and 1:00pm on Wednesday 19th June 2019 they left their rental home and went beaching mistakenly leaving a northern glass sliding door unlock. Upon their return they discovered that someone had entered the residence and stole $200.00 in mixed Bahamian and U.S. currencies. The matter was reported for Police information.

Stolen Documents Report At 9:15am Monday June 24th 2019, an adult female reported to the Governors Harbour Police Station that sometime between the hours of 8:30pm on Friday 21/06/2019 and 7:45am on Saturday 22/06/2019 some unknown person/s entered her vehicle while same was parked at her residence and stole her black hand bag containing her several important documents, namely; Police assistance is requested in obtaining replacements for the mentioned documents. Investigations continue into this matter, TRAFFIC ACCIDENT At about 7:12 pm on Tuesday 25th June 2019, police arrived on the scene of a reported traffic accident in the area of Hatchet Bay, Queens Highway, in the area of the silos and observed a white two door Chevrolet Truck at a stop on the Western side of Queens Highway, with extensive front and side damages, along with a Grey Nissan Teana, at a stop in a diagonal position facing North East on Queen’s Highway, Hatchet Bay, with extensive front end damages. Photographs and measurement of the scene; both drivers were already taken to the Hatchet Bay Clinic. At the Clinic police issued both drivers with an N.O.I.P and Hospital forms and recorded statements from both drivers under caution. Investigations into this matter are ongoing.

Bush Fire Reported Sometime around 3:00am on Thursday 27th June, 2019, an unknown female contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station via telephone and reported that there was a huge bush fire in the bush heading out of the settlement of James Cistern and it appeared to be burning out of control. Police assistance was requested. Police visited the scene, just north of the Bible Training Center, James Cistern, Eleuthera, where a large bush fire was observed on the western side of the street that was spreading along the beach area and posed a threat to possibly spread to nearby homes. After being contacted, the ‘Men of Faith Fire Services’ arrived on the scene and proceeded to extinguish fire.

Rock Sound Sgt. Office Rock Sound Airport Stn L. Bogue Station (Airport) Harbour Island Station O/C Harbour Island Spanish Wells Station Gregory Town Station Hatchet Bay Station

334-2212 334-2052 335-1208 333-2111 333-2327 333-4030 335-5322 335-0086

At about 6:07am the fire was extinguished with no property damage or injury occurring. All was left quiet and in order at the time.

ROAD ACCIDENT REPORT: At 11:08am on Friday 28th June, 2019 an anonymous caller contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police and reported that there was a traffic accident on Queen’s Highway north of the Charlow’s residence.

Damage and injuries involved. Police assistance requested.

At 12:15pm Police at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station reported investigating a traffic accident which occurred on Queen’s Highway just north of Banana Beach Estate, involving a champagne 2006 Honda Accord driven by an adult male of James Cistern. The driver reported that he was travelling north along Queen’s Highway Governor’s Harbour and the battery terminal came off resulting in the steering wheel getting tight. As a result he lost control and collided into bushes on the western side of the road. His front seat passenger of James Cistern was transported to the Palmetto Point Clinic to be treated for injuries to his right knee, right elbow, lower lip and head. A N.O.I.P form was served, hospital form issued and measurements were recorded. Investigations are ongoing.

POLICE INFORMATION: At 12:44pm on Friday 28th June, 2019 An adult female of Governor’s Harbour came to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station and reported that at about 12:08pm on 28/6/2019 she parked a car in the front of First Caribbean Bank Governor’s Harbour to do some banking. Upon returning to the vehicle she discovered that there was a dent on the front left fender. Reported for Police Information POLICE ASSISTANCE REPORT: On Friday 28th June, 2019 at about 8:30pm, an adult female James Cistern, came to the GHPS and reported that on Saturday 22/06/2019 at about 3:00pm, a group of female tourist patrons whom she was serving while at a local establishment may have mistakenly took her green handbag containing $190.00 cash, medication and car and house keys. She doesn’t wish any police action but requests police assistance in having her items returned to her. Investigation continues into this matter.

TRESPASSING AND DAMAGE REPORT: On Friday 28th June, 2019 at about 5:44pm an adult of Rainbow Bay, Eleuthera came into the Governor’s Harbour Police Station and reported that sometime between 1:20pm on Thursday, 27th June 2019 and 12:30pm on Friday 28th June, 2019, some unknown person entered the yard of a home where he care-takes, and detached four (4) of the cameras that’s a part of the CCTV system and threw them into the bush causing damage to the cameras. Police Action requested. An adult male is being

Crime News sought in connection to this matter.

H.I. & N.E. Reports Arrest Police while on operation duty on 1/6/19 at 6:25Am arrested three females including one minor at their residence in Harbour Island in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs.

Suspect #1 Interviewed Charged While at the Harbour Island Police a young adult female suspect was interviewed under caution where she admitted to the offence and having knowledge custody and control over the suspected marijuana which was found at her residence.

As a result she were subsequently charged and granted bail in the sum of $1,000.00 with one suretor to appear before court on 4th July 2019.

Suspect #2 Interviewed Charged An Officer while at the Harbour Island Police Station interviewed the minor under caution in the presence of her father where she denied all allegations and stated that she don’t smoke and nothing was found on her person only at the residence she resides in another room not occupied by her.

As a result she was subsequently Charged and granted bail in the sum of $1,000.00.

Suspect #3 Interviewed Charged An Officer reported while at the Harbour Island Police Station interviewed an adult female in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs where she denied being in possession of drugs but admitted that officers found drugs in the room of her relative. As a result she was subsequently charged and granted bail in the sum of $1,000.00.

Suspect Arrested Police while on operation duties On 1/6/19 at about 6:15Am arrested one an adult male of Barrack Street Harbour Island while at the residence of his girl friend in reference to Causing Harm and Possession of Dangerous Drugs. In addition the suspect had a large sum of money on his person totaling to $1395.00 which was seized as the proceeds of Dangerous Drugs and handed over to the Inspector for further investigations.

Arrest: Interfering with a Prisoner While in Police Custody A Sgt. reported that sometime around 2:30Pm on Saturday 1/6/19 while on duty at the Harbour Island Police Station his attention was drawn to the monitor and movement on the Police Station camera surveillance system. On taking a closer look he observed a male known to him with both hands extended to the southern window of the cell block pulling himself, up the window and appeared to have pushed something through a hole in the window and later left on a golf cart traveling North. A short while later the suspect was arrested for Interfering with a prisoner where he admitted that he pushed a lighter through the window.

Stolen Property Report Police Action Requested An adult male of Alabama USA, came in at the HIPS and reported that sometime between 4:30pm and 5:30pm on Monday June 3, 2019 some person(s) unknown may have stolen his black Iphone 7 in a black “life proof” case together valued at $700.00. Police action requested.

Assault Report Police Assistance Requested On Tuesday 4th July 2019 at 3:45pm an adult female of Bay Street, Harbour

Island came to the HIPS along with her Primary School aged daughter and another minor female and reported that the accompanying child had kicked her daughter in the chest while at school.

This is not the first time something like this happened and she is requesting that the child be warned to leave her daughter alone.

While at the HIPS, an adult female of Barrack Street came in at S-3. Both kids were spoken too and as a result the adult was asked to have her daughter to come to see a SGT just after school for the next two days in an effort to help her minor daughter with what appears to be an attitude problem. Agreement was reached.

Suspect Arrest Ref: Stealing Report On Tuesday 4th June 2019 at 3:05pm police came in at S-3 with a young adult female suspect of Colebrooke Street, Harbour Island in reference to Stealing. Police reported arresting and cautioning the suspect on Tuesday 4th June 2019 at 3pm while at her residence.

Suspect Interviewed - While at the HIPS, an officer conducted a recorded interview with the suspect under caution in the presence of a SGT. She admitted to the offence.

Suspect Charged & Released on Police bail While at the HIPS, police Charged the suspect with Stealing contrary to section 139 of the Penal Code CH 84.She was later then fingerprinted, processed and released on Police bail to appear before Magistrate court Harbour Island.

Stealing Report On Wednesday 5th June, 2019 at about 9:35 am an adult female England c/o Lucaya staying at a resort came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that at around 3:00 am date while at a Night Club, Barrack Street some unknown person/s stole her beige Top Shop hand bag which contained her gray I-Phone 8 Plus valued at $1,000.00 and a black I-Phone X valued at $1,000.00. Police action requested.

Action Taken • Police recorded a written statement from the complainant.

• An adult male of Colebrooke Street was arrested and cautioned in reference to Stealing. An officer reported that while at the Harbour Island Police Station at around 4:20pm he conducted an interview under caution with the suspect where he denied all allegations to the offence. As a result he was later released pending further investigations.

• An adult male of Colebrooke Alley was arrested and cautioned in reference to Stealing. An officer reported that while at the Harbour Island he conducted an interview under caution with the suspect where he denied allegations to the offence of stealing. As a result he was later released pending further investigations. *Reference to this matter investigations are ongoing.* Traffic Accident On Saturday 8th June 2019, sometime around 6:30pm, an adult male of Lower Bogue, contacted the North Eleuthera Police Station and reported that an accident had just occurred on Queens Highway, Upper Bogue involving a white Ford E-150 van, which col-

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37

lided into a lamp pole. Police assistance is requested. Sometime around 6:45pm, police arrived on scene, where they discovered a white Ford E-150 at a stop on the southern side of the west bound lane, with extensive damage to the front section. The officers saw and spoke to the driver, who identified himself as an adult male of Upper Bogue, who stated that while travelling west along Queens Highway, Upper Bogue, he attempted to maneuver around a corner, however, the sun’s rays obstructed his view, and as he attempted to pull down the sun visor he accidently pressed gas instead of brakes, which caused him to lose control of the vehicle and collide head on into a lamp pole. Police photographed and took measurements of the scene, and on completion served the driver with an N.O.I.P.

and cautioning the suspect on Tuesday 11th June 2019 at 11am while in the area of Johnsons Rental Princess Street in reference to Damage.

The suspect was interviewed under caution and admitted to the offence. He was with charged with Damage contrary to section 338 of the Penal Code Ch 84.

Causing Harm Report On Monday 10th June 2019 at 8:55am a young adult female Princess Street, Harbour Island came to the HIPS and reported that on Monday 10th June 2019 sometime after 2am while in the area of her residence she was approached by a female she knows. They exchanged words and shortly after that she left the area and went on Bay street, moments later she was approached a second time by this same female who then assaulted her by hitting her in her eye with a rock. Police action requested.

Arrest Report Ref: Causing Harm On Tuesday 11th June 2019 at 12:45pm an adult female of Alice Street, Harbour Island in at HIPS. A SGT reported arresting and cautioning the suspect while at the HIPS in reference to Causing Harm.

Damage Report On Monday 10th June 2019 at about 9:25am an adult male of Nassau, New Providence came to the HIPS and reported that on Monday 10th June 2019 sometime around 2am while working an event on Bay Street, a male took a Guinness bottle and bang it on his Foam Cannon Machine which is valued at $3,500.00 causing damage by denting the top of it. Police action requested.

Arrest Report Ref: Assault, Throwing Missiles, Threats of Harm & Trespassing On Tuesday 11th June 2019 at 12:40pm an adult male of Bay Street, Harbour Island came in at S-3. Police reported arresting and cautioning the suspect at 12:45pm while at the HIPS in reference to Assault, Trespassing, Throwing Missiles and Threats of Harm.

Trespassing Report On Monday 10th June 2019 at about 10:40am an adult female of Trianna Shores, Harbour Island came to the HIPS and reported that on Monday 10th June 2019 sometime around 4am whiles at her residence, a male she knows was on her upper deck that leads to her bedroom cottage. She is requesting police action.

Arrest Report Ref: Stealing On Tuesday 11th June 2019 at 12:18pm police came in at S3 with suspect an adult male of Colebrooke Street in reference to Stealing. Police conducted a search warrant of the residence of the suspect in reference to this matter with negative results. On Tuesday 11th June 2019 at 3pm police conducted a recorded interview with the suspect under caution and he denied the allegations.

Arrest Report Ref: Causing harm On Tuesday 11th June 2019 at about 11:20am police came in at S-3 with an adult male suspect of Nassau, New Providence, in reference to Causing Harm.

Causing Harm Report On Tuesday 11th June, 2019 at about 2:25 pm an adult female of Alice Street came to the Harbour Island Station and reported that sometime after 2:00 am on Monday 10th June, 2019 while in the area of a resort on Bay Street a female known to her hit her in the head with a cell phone causing bleeding, swelling and pain. Police action requested.

• Police recorded a written statement under caution from the complainant and issued her with a police hospital.

• Police arrested and cautioned an adult female of Princess Street in reference to Causing Harm. The suspect was subsequently charged with Causing Harm c/s 135(1) of the Penal Code chapter 84 and released on bail in the sum of $1,000.00 to appear in Magistrate Court.

Entry by Night/Damage Report - Police Action Requested An adult male of Dunmore Street Harbour Island came to the Harbour Island Police Station at 12:50Am on Tuesday 11th June 2019 and reported that at about 12:45am he discovered his residence fully ransack where he suspects his ex-girlfriend and child’s mother gained access through a southern window causing damages to it along with a sixty (60”) inch Sony Television, (2) bureau mirrors, and clothing. He added that a 5 gallon water jug he kept for a piggy bank with an uncertain amount of cash was also damaged and money missing. Police action requested.

Police recorded a witness statement from the complainant’s girlfriend of the same address who also reported that some of her property was also damaged.

Police action requested.

Harassment Report Police Warning Requested On Thursday 13th June 2019 at 10:20am an adult female came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that a female she knows is always harassing her – “making smart remarks towards her and throwing “jeers”. The complainant requested that the accused be warned not to have anything say to her. Police, saw and spoke to the accused adult female who was informed of the complaint made against her. She was warned of her behavior and further prosecution.

Arrest Report Ref: Damage On Tuesday 11th June 2019 at 11:05am police came in at S3 with an adult suspect of Colebrooke Street, Harbour Island. They reported arresting

Causing Harm Report Police Action Requested A young adult male of Harbour Island came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that on Wednesday 19th June

38 www. EleutheraNews . com Continued from Page. 37 2019 about 10:45pm while attending a Night Club situated Bay Street Harbour Island he accidently stepped on an unknown male feet who was with Bahamian entertainer whom he knows as “Daddy Whites” which resulted in the male striking him to the head twice with a bottle causing injuries and pain. Police action requested.

Police contacted a nurse c/o Harbour Island community clinic in reference to the matter, recorded a written statement from the complainant while at the Harbour Island Police Station and viewed injuries which were also photographed for further investigation purposes. A written statement was recorded from the complainant’s girlfriend.

Police made checks in reference to locating the accused without immediate success. Investigations are active and ongoing.

Arrest ref: Causing Harm Police reported at about 11:05am arresting the adult male suspect of New Providence while at the North Eleuthera International Airport Lower Bogue North Eleuthera in reference to Causing Harm.

Police conducted an interview with the suspect at the Harbour Island Police Station where he admitted to the offence and was subsequently charged in reference to Causing Harm and later Processed and granted bail in the sum of $500.00 with one suretor to appear before Magistrate Court on 4/7/19.

Assault Report Police Action requested An adult female of Colebrook Street Harbour Island came to the Harbour Island Police Station on 20/6/19 at 3:40pm and reported that sometime around 3:20pm on the same date while at her residence scolding and reprimanding her children because of their bad grades on their report cards, her younger brother attacked her and beat her about her lower legs with a piece of metal pipe. Police action requested.

Police arrested and cautioned the adult male suspect of Colebrooke Street Harbour Island in reference to Assault.

He was interviewed and admitted to the offence of Assault stating that he had to intervene because his sister Lacey was beating his nieces with a piece of 2 x 4 wood and he had to stop her. As a result of the information given by the suspect he was subsequently charged reference to Assault, Processed and later granted bail in the sum of $500.00 with one suretor to appear before court.

Causing Harm Report Police Action Requested A young adult male of Dunmore Street Harbour Island came to the Harbour Island Police Station on 20/6/19 at 6:40pm and reported that while on the basketball court and public park Bay and Dunmore Street Harbour Island he was struck to the right side of the face with an unknown object by a young male whom he knows Causing Injuries.

Police action requested.

Police recorded a written statement from the complainant and issued him with a hospital form after viewing a laceration on the side of his head that appeared to be deep and bleeding at the time.

Arrest On the same date 20/6/19 at around 9:55pm police arrested and

Crime News

Cautioned the adult male suspect of Coconut Grove Ave Harbour Island in reference to Causing Harm. He reported to be in good physical and mental health.

Assault/Damage Report Police Action Requested On Saturday 22nd June 2019 at 12:30am an adult male of Colebrooke Street, Harbour Island came to the HIPS and reported that sometime around 11pm on Friday 21st June 2019 while at his residence, he got into an altercation with his girlfriend who lives with him, where she assaulted him about the body and caused damage to items valued at $600 each. Police action requested.

Domestic Dispute Report Earlier at about 12:10am the female in the incident contacted the HIPS and reported that on Friday 21st June 2019 sometime after 11pm, she and her boyfriend who she lives with had a physical altercation which resulted in him throwing her personal belongings outside on the ground after assaulting her. She further stated that she broke his items in defense of him fighting her. Police information only.

Assault Report Police Warning Requested On Saturday 22nd June 2019 at 10:20pm a young adult female of Colebrooke Street, Harbour Island came to the HIPS and reported that while at a Club, she was beaten about the body by two females. Police action requested. Police recorded a written statement from complainant who then further stated that she no longer wishes police action, however she is requesting that suspects be warned.

Threats of Harm Report Police Action Requested On Sunday 23rd June 2019 at 1:15am an adult male of Barrack Street, Harbour Island came to the HIPS and reported that on Saturday 22nd June 2019 shortly before 12 midnight while in the area of a Nightclub located Dunmore Street, he was approached by a male he knows who pulled a big black and red flip knife on him threatening to jick him up over some money he owed him. He further stated this male told him to stay right where he was he is coming right back, he is going for his gun. This placed him in fear for his life.

Police action requested.

Police made checks of the nightclub and Love Lane in reference to locating the suspect with negative results.

Stealing Report Police Action Requested On Sunday 23rd June 2019 at 2:40am an adult male of Florida, USA , staying at a local resort, came to the HIPS and reported that on Saturday 22nd June 2019 at 11:30pm, he arrived at a nightclub, left his blue sport coat valued at $400.00 with his John Varvatos sunglasses valued at $200.00 on his rental golf cart. He returned back to his cart and discovered his sport coat missing. Police action requested.

House Breaking Report On Monday 27th May, 2019 at around 7:28am, an adult male of Colebrooke Street, Harbour Island came to the HIPS and reported that he is the caretaker of a house located Bay

Street. He further reported that sometime between Friday 24/5/19 at 4pm and Monday 27/5/19 at 7:00am he discovered that some unknown person/s cut the lock to the eastern garage and broke the lock off of six storage units in the garage and stole an assortment of tools and fishing gear. He is unable to give an accurate property list or value at this time however the home owners will be in the country in June. Police action requested.

Investigations are ongoing in this matter.

Assault Arrest On Monday 27th May, 2019 at around 8:30 pm an adult male of Pitt Street came into the Harbour Island Police Station where he was arrested and cautioned by police in reference to Assault, a matter previously reported earlier. The suspect was interviewed under caution where he denied the offences and was released pending further investigations.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon On Monday 27th May, 2019 at around 11:57 pm an adult female of Barracks Street came into the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that at about 11:40 pm while along Barrack Street a male known to her hit her to the right shoulder with a piece of wood causing swelling and pain saying that she had better stop telling his baby mother things about him. She further reported that he pulled a black hand gun out of his waist and pointing it at her head saying, “I should just….”. She reported that a male who accompanied the accused shouted, “no bey,no bey” and he put the gun down. The complainant reported being in fear for her life. Police action requested.

Threats of Harm Report On Tuesday 28th May, 2019 at about 1:20pm an adult male of Colebrooke Street, Harbour Island came in at Harbour Island Police Station and reported that sometime around 1:00 pm while at work he received several voice notes from his nephew also of Colebrooke Street saying that he is going to chap him up putting him in fear for his life Police action requested.

Libel Report On Tuesday 28th May, 2019 at around 11:30 pm an adult female of Dunmore Street came to the Harbour Island Station and reported that at around 10:30 pm her and her boyfriend were alerted by friends that some unknown person/s had posted nude and partially nude photographs of them on Facebook with derogatory comments of them both.

She further reported that at about 6:00 pm her boyfriend gave his daughter his old phone and she suspects an adult female they know somehow gained access to his Facebook Account using the phone. Police action requested.

Assault Report Police Warning Requested An adult female of Colebrooke Street Harbour Island came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that on Tuesday 28th May 2019 at about 6:30pm she was approached by a female whom she knows who approached her on Dunmore Street and assaulted her by pulling her hair and holding her in a choke hold.

She added that the incident occurred after she approached the accused female’s daughter after she received information that her son was slapped by her. She

June/July, 2019

requested a police warning.

Police saw and spoke to the accused adult female of Colebrooke Street, Harbour Island. She was informed of the complaint made against her. She denied the allegations, however she was sternly warned to keep the peace and warned of further prosecution.

Suspects in Custody On Thursday 30/5/19 police came in at S3 with suspects a young adult male suspect of The Bluff, Eleuthera in reference to Shop breaking and Stealing, along with suspect a young adult male resident of Spanish Wells, Eleuthera in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs and reported that both suspects were arrested during an operation with a team of officers.

Assault & Causing Damage Queens Highway, Lower Bogue On Friday 7th June 2019, sometime around 7:40pm, a woman came into the North Eleuthera Police Station and reported that sometime around 7:30pm her boyfriend, came to her work place and began arguing with her. She stated that during the argument he slapped her and threw a rock through the back glass of her car. As a result she threw a rock through the back glass of his jeep, which resulted in him retrieving a screw driver from his vehicle and chasing her with it, while threatening to kill her. He was subsequently confronted by persons who came to her assistance, and as a result he dropped the screw driver, entered his vehicle, and left the area. She requested Police assistance in this matter.

Complaint Withdrawn: On Sunday 9th June 2019, sometime around 11:15pm, the complainant of Upper Bogue, came into the North Eleuthera Police Station and stated that her and the accused came to an agreement as it relates to the repair of her back glass, and as a result she wished to withdraw the complaint she made against him.

Assault/Warning Requested On Saturday 15th June 2019, sometime around 12:35pm an adult male c/o Airport Authority contacted the N.E.P.S and reported that he received information that a passenger on American Eagle Flight#5188 , assaulted an employee of the airport of Lower Bogue. As a result of information received police proceeded to the Airport Terminal and spoke to the victim who stated that a female passenger pushed her in the chest, after she had advised her not to obstruct the traffic flow of an area. Police along with the Security Staff of the Airport went on board the American eagle Flight#5188 and allowed the victim to identify the lady who assaulted her. She pointed out a Caucasian female name of Dallas Texas who was informed of the complaint made against her, but denied all allegations. The complainant wished only for the suspect to be warned. The same was done. The accused returned to the plane. All was left in order.

Assault/Warning Requested On Sunday 16th June 2019, sometime around 8:15am, a young adult female of Queens Highway, Lower Bogue, came into the North Eleuthera Police Station and reported that sometime around 10:55pm, on Saturday 15th June 2019, while walking with her friend, she was approached by her boyfriend of Lower Bogue, who told her to come with him.

She refused and as a result he punched

Crime News her in her head and beat her about the body. She requested a Police warning in this matter.

Illegal Immigrant Arrest On Sunday 16th June 2019, sometime around 6:00pm, police, while conducting enquiries in the area of Upper Bogue, approached a dark male suspect, who identified himself as a resident of Blackwood. While speaking with the suspect, the officers noticed as he began trembling and acting in a suspicious manner. As a result the officers requested that the suspect produce his identification, which he was unable to do. When questioned further, the suspect admitted that he did not have any documentation to reside in the Bahamas. He was then arrested and cautioned for immigration purposes. He was transported to the North Eleuthera Police Station, then onto the Harbor Island Police Station, where he was handed over for safekeeping. A Senior Immigration Officer was informed.

Stealing from Vehicle Report - An adult male of Spanish Wells, came into the N.E.P.S and reported that sometime between 2:00pm and 8:00pm on Tuesday the 18th June 2019, some unknown person/s stole the license plate off his Silver 2000 Toyota Progress L/P EL6502 while it was left parked and secured at Genes Bay Dock in the area of his car garage. He does not have any suspects in mind at the time; however he is requesting police action in the matter.

Enquiries are ongoing in this matter.

Stealing from Vehicle Report - At about 3:15pm on Thursday 20th June 2019, an elderly male of Queen’s Street, Current contacted the North Eleuthera Police Station via telephone and reported that sometime between Tuesday the 11th June 2019 and 3:00pm on Thursday the 20th June 2019, some unknown person/s stole the right head light and signal light from off his 1993 Ford Ranger while it was left parked in his driveway. He does not recall the value of the headlights nor does he have any suspects in mind. He is requesting police action in this matter.

Drug Arrest Report Queens Highway, Lower Bogue On Wednesday the 19th June 2019, at about 8:20am, police came into the North Eleuthera Police Station with (3) male suspects, and reported that sometime around 8:05am, while conducting a road check in the area of Queens Highway, Lower Bogue, they arrested and cautioned the said suspects, after they were found in possession of a quantity of dangerous drugs, namely Marijuana.

The suspects identified themselves as residents of New Providence. They were subsequently interviewed under caution, and all of the suspects denied having any knowledge of the suspected marijuana found. On completion of the investigation, all suspects were charged with possession of dangerous drugs. They were released on bail and instructed to report to Harbor Island Magistrate Court on 4th July 2019, for trail.

Lot

Stealing from Vehicle Report Location: Three Island Dock Parking

On Wednesday 19th June 2019, at about 1:30pm, an adult female of Blackwood, came into the North Eleuthera Police Station, and reported that on Tuesday 18th June 2019, between 1:15pm and 10:00pm some unknown person/s broke the front right door glass of her car while

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it was parked in the rear parking lot at Three Island Dock, and stole the battery out of the hood of the car. She does not know the cost of damages done however she is requesting police action in the matter. Enquiries are ongoing in this matter.

Stealing from Vehicle Report Three Island Dock Parking Lot On Wednesday 19th June 2019, at about 2:55pm, an adult female of Rock Sound, Eleuthera, came into the North Eleuthera Police Station and reported that sometime between 9:30am on Tuesday 18th June 2019 and 2:46pm on Wednesday 19th June 2019, some unknown person/s broke into her vehicle while it was parked in the parking lot of Three Island Dock, and stole the battery out of the hood of the car. She does not know the cost of damages done however, she is requesting police action in the matter.

Enquiries are ongoing in this matter.

North Eleuthera District Road Check Location: Queens Highway & Airport Road, Lower Bogue Date: Wednesday 19th June 2019 In accordance with Priority #2 of the Commissioner’s Policing Plan 2019 (Public and Road Safety), on Wednesday 19th June 2019, between the hours of 6:00am to 9:00am, Officers of the North Eleuthera District, under the leadership of ASP N. Rolle and Insp. K. Farquarson, conducted a Road Check within the community of Lower Bogue. The objective of this initiative was three-fold; To inform the motoring public of the amendments to the Road Traffic Act To report all offenders against the Road Traffic Act, & To arrest all offenders, who may be found in contravention to the laws of The Bahamas.

Summary Operation Summary Vehicle’s Stopped Vehicle’s Searched Person’s Searched Drug Arrest 3 T.O.R’s. Issued

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Phone | WHATSAPP | TEXT

1 (242) 422-9350 email / website services@TheEleutheran.com editor@TheEleutheran.com www.EleutheraNews.com

fax/landline

1 (242) 332-2993 The Eleutheran, P. O. Box EL-25166, Governor’s Harbour Eleuthera, The Bahamas.

A SPICE MEDIA GROUP (SMG) PUBLICATION Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, The Bahamas.

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‘budget comments’ dock.”

The North Eleuthera MP was also pleased with movements in Spanish Wells, saying, “I’m also pleased to know that the government has agreed to complete the work in Spanish Wells with reference to the roads. The bridge to Russell Island which was rapidly decaying that has been budgeted in this budget year. So, that will be fixed. We have also located a piece of property, and we are now just waiting for acquisition of the documents, so, the new Spanish Wells graveyard will be in place. We are also very close to having the good potable water for North Eleuthera completed. The building is just about completed. Systems are in place. There are just one or two things remaining to be done. This Water Plant will be able to produce some 800,000 gallons per day, which will most certainly take care of the issues that we have at hand.”

He continued, “I’ve also reached out to the Minister - and some people may say I’m greedy - but, I’ve asked him if he could provide some remedial road work in Har-

bour Island, that we are hoping to have happen. There are always things needed in each community, and we are guided by the constraints of the budget. But, I am pleased to say that the things the government have consented to do, we are excited about, and we should see that happening in the very near future.”

Throwing a spotlight on community members rising to the challenge of helping themselves in certain aspects, Mr. Mackey proudly shared, “I would also like to highlight a program called ‘Parents On A Mission’. They have literally gone out and solicited funding to assist at the All Age School in Harbour Island. The current goal of the program is to build a building, and develop a track area for the school. We have two buildings currently being used that literally have been condemned, and I commend them for taking on the challenge and wanting to play a role in helping the community with their assistance. So, they are just waiting on approval from the Minister, to go ahead, which I’m seeking to have done very quickly. I think it’s an excellent idea - an idea whose time has come.”

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2019 GRADS Continued from Page. 6 that we are now qualified to enter the championship - the real world. It’s our responsibility to make a difference, and to become the best version of ourselves as the journey continues.”

Local Minister, Diallo Ingraham, of Rock Sound, delivered the commencement message, and encouraged the new graduates to, “Take their talents to the world, work to achieve their goals, and to never stop learning… The baton is now being passed... The opportunity is with you, no one else,” were his concluding words.

This island wide class of 2019 were the third group of Eleuthera high school graduates to attain the Bahamas High School Diploma, which standardized a minimum set of requirements attained by high school graduates nationally.

The essential minimum graduation requirements instituted, which each student aiming to graduate had to meet included the acquisition of; 4 Bahamas Junior Certificate subjects (BJC’s) in Mathematics, English Language, a Social or Technical Science (Religious Knowledge, Social Studies, Technical Drawing, or Family and Consumer Science), and a Natural Science (General Science, or Health Science); a 90% record of attendance and punctuality; 30 hours of community service; 20 hours of job readiness training; parental participation in at least 3 PTA meetings per annum; a minimum grade point average of 2.0; as well as a minimum of 27 earned high school course credits – by the end of 12th grade.

The Bahamas National Diploma Class of 2019 included; Honour Society Inductee Graduates (Denotes a Certificate of Excellence. A Cumulative GPA of 3.0 and above, Minimum of 3 BGCSE’s with C (or above) grade or SAT/ACT score permitting immediate college entry): Lamar Sineus, Kiara Roberts, Dayonna Brown, Larelya Vinegre, Ernie Kelly, Mona Toussaint, Jerold Kelly, Geordante Neely, Oriana Carey, Traliyah Carey, Allie Pinder, Anna Pinder, Merrick Underwood, Daunte Bethel, Madison McGee, William Saintulus, and Tamesha Sweeting.

Honour Roll Graduates (Denotes Honour Roll Status - Cumulative GPA of 3.0 and above): Donovan Seymour, Jason Thompson, Malika Williams, Kenron Collins, Joshua Jolly, Nychada Joseph, Gabriella Cleare, Seraiah Littlejohn, Glenderia Francis, Giltavia Goodman, Charma Morley, Johnnecia Pinder, Cierrah Ferguson, Deandrea Johnson, and Jose Roberts.

Graduates: Mattheo Albury, Shamaria Belle, Cassandra Cadet, Marcia Calixte, Girred Clarke, Kayneisha Cooper, Herodiane Ficien, Jonas Fleranasaint, Shekinah Gaitor, Ashanti Heastie, Natisha Johnson, Shawayne Knowles, Danaj Lundy, Daniella Pierre, Kimberly Pierre, Hadassah Rankine, Tenarkis Sands, Aaliyah Thompson, Alexia Davis, Jania Davis, Tyreik Higgs, Daunte Knowles, Carla Saunders, Jeffrey Aristide, Wendez Bullard, Andy Dany, Asmine Dervilien, Warrae Hudson, Brivian Johnson, Rolanda Joseph, Lenka Julmiste, Geneva Laguerre, Kelly-Ann

McKenzie, Fedlyne Metze, Lamont Morley, Yasmeen Munroe, Natalie Newbold, Jerica Pierre, Celeste Pinder, Darrel Smith, Valencia Bain, Mia Brown, Shaniah Butler, Ashantae Curry, Dillon Ingraham, Jase Isaacs, Takeem Knowles, Donovan McKinney, Demica Rolle, Precious Rolle, Kristin Saunders. Kamia Thompson, Brenae Williams, Timmesha Wilson, Randino Yee, Jada Albury, Mary Boute, Hannah Elden, Brendan Hepburn, Christian Patram, Miguel Turner, and Thyrone Turnquest.

Graduates from the six high schools throughout the island of Eleuthera came together to celebrate their successful attainment of the Bahamas High School Diploma on June 14th, 2019 at the Worker’s House Ballroom in Governor’s Harbour, Central Eleuthera, with proud family members, friends, and community members out in full support.

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95 graduates from across the island walked across the aisle and stage to accept their Bahamas High School Diploma, after completing six successful years of junior and senior high school. Students represented came from Spanish Wells All Age, Harbour Island All Age, North Eleuthera High School, Central Eleuthera High School, Windermere High School, and Preston H. Albury High School. Six Valedictorians and seven Salutatorians were also celebrated on the day for their special academic achievements. Students who had maintained their honour roll status throughout their high school career were also inducted into the Honours Society.

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graduates: Photos beginning on this page showcase the islands’ Valedictorians, followed by the Salutatorians, then

the Honour Roll Society Graduates, followed by the standard Bahamas National Diploma Graduates - in order of their performance, and color coded by their sashes (Yellow: Valedictorians; White with Yellow: Salutatorians; White with Blue: Honor Roll; Blue: Standard.)

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Memorial Service held for two Bahamians

whose dead bodies were recovered from a river in Italy Much of the country in June was shocked at the news of two Bahamian young men, 28-yearold Blair John, a Saint Mary’s University graduate student and 29-year-old, Alrae Ramsey, a Bahamian Foreign Services Officer whose bodies were recovered from a river in Turin, Italy during the first week of the month.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Darren Henfield. addressing the House of Assembly on June 5th, 2019

Alrae Ramsey

Blair John

The Bahamas Ministry of Foreign Affairs released the following statement about two Bahamian men on Wednesday, June 5th.

The statement regarding the case was as follows: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is saddened by the death of one of its Foreign Services Officers, Mr. Alrae Ramsey, who was on study leave in Vienna, Austria, and who visited Turin, Italy, over the middle of last week. Mr Ramsey was employed with Ministry of Foreign Affairs since 9th December 2013. Formerly, he was posted at the Bahamas Embassy in Port- au-Prince, Haiti as third Secretary/Vice-consul in 2016 – 2017.

Then, last year, he was granted an In-Service Award to pursue a one-year Postgraduate Diploma

programme in Diplomacy/International Relations and Languages at the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna in Austria for the period September 2018 – June 2019.

According to the Ministry, officials travelled to Turin and met with officials from the police force. They confirmed that the body pulled from the river was, indeed, that of Mr. Alrae Ramsey.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Hon. Darren Henfield, and officials at the Ministry have been in contact with the family of Mr. Ramsey and shared all the information that they have to date. Mr. Henfield said that officials have also confirmed that the body of the second Bahamian man that was pulled out of the River Po Turin was positively identified as that of Mr. Blair Rashad Randy John.

Mr. John was a St. Augustine’s College graduate of Class of 2009 who was near completion of his Ph.D. in Psychology at Saint Mary’s University in Nova Scotia, Canada. He traveled to Turin to make a psychology conference presentation on behalf of the university. “We continue to remain in close contact with the family of Mr. Blair John,” said the Minister. “We urge the members of the public to keep the families in their prayers, and to show compassion and understanding by not jumping to conclusions and sharing speculative information widely.” The Minister has also asked that the public keep colleagues of the deceased and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in their prayers during this difficult and tragic time. He said

that the public would be updated as soon as the Ministry has more information.”

Prime Minister Hubert Minnis issued the following statement on the Deaths of Alrae Ramsey and Blair John On behalf of the Bahamian people and Government of The Bahamas I extend my deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families of Bahamians Alrae Ramsey and Blair John, who were found dead in Turin, Italy, on June 4th and 5th under tragic circumstances.

I spoke with the Ramsey and John families on the weekend and assured them that the Government is doing everything it can to ensure that the remains of their loved ones are returned home to The Bahamas as

soon as possible.

As a father I cannot imagine the unspeakable pain that the parents of these young men are going through.

From the outset, I have been in regular communication with the Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Darren Henfield. The Ministry and its representatives are carefully and diligently handling this very sensitive matter.

I note the reports received from His Excellency Ellison E. Greenslade, High Commissioner of The Bahamas to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, who has indicated that he is carefully following the investigation into the deaths of Mr. Ramsey and Mr. John.

High Commissioner Greenslade, a former Commissioner of Police, was dispatched to Italy on Saturday 8 June to make further inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to provide regular updates to the families and the public on these tragic circumstances.

I ask the nation to please keep the Ramsey and John families in their thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis 11 June 2019 Office of the Prime Minister Commonwealth of The Bahamas

------------------------------------------------Foreign Affairs Held a Memorial Service for Late Foreign Service Officer Alrae Ramsey

By Betty Vedrine NASSAU, The Bahamas – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs held a memorial service to commemorate the life of Mr. Alrae Ramsey, a

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently held a Memorial Service at its Goodman’s Bay Corporate Centre offices to commemorate the life of the late Mr. Alrae Ramsey, a Foreign Service Officer with the Ministry. Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Hon. Darren Henfield is pictured giving tributes to Mr. Ramsey and to Dr. Blair John, who both lost their lives in Turin, Italy, earlier this month. (Photos/Peter Ramsay)

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Foreign Service Officer with the Ministry who lost his life in Turin, Italy, earlier this month.

The Ministry also recognized the family of Dr. Blair John, who also lost his life in Turin. Members of both families were present.

The event was held on the evening of Wednesday, 26th June at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters at the Corporate Centre at Goodman’s Bay. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Darren Henfield delivered remarks. He said that as the Minister, it was a privilege to speak at the special memorial service for a fallen colleague.

“We who work for this Ministry, understand the role of being a diplomat, and while we know Alrae was a natural at this, he gave much to his work and was constantly seeking to hone his skills for future goals,” said Minister Henfield.

“I would like to speak in celebration of his life. He had an outstanding personality and strived for excellence in his endeavours and pursuits. This is most noted in his academic studies, where in 2011, he graduated from St. John’s University.”

“He said that Mr. Ramsey joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in December 2013, in the post of Administrative Cadet and that he met him in 2017 when he became the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

“My encounters with him showed that he was a thinker, one who showed signs of inno-

vation and creativity in his work. As such, he made substantive contributions to the development of this Ministry. He generously gave us his knowledge, his expertise, and his skills,” said the Minister.

Mr. Ramsey attended training courses in Nassau and overseas. He was posted to The Bahamas Embassy in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, as Third Secretary/Vice-Consul from 2016 to 2017.

He was a member of Toastmaster’s International Club 6796, where he was elected to an Executive Officer position and made his contribution to the development of the Club.

“From all accounts, Alrae was a good friend among us and a great colleague, who was sincere, hardworking and committed,” Minister Henfield said. As an officer he gave energy and inspiration to others with whom he worked. As I recall, he had a warm smile, a sense of humour and a gentle demeanour.

“But most of all was his sharp wit and logical and systematic thinking.

“He was always willing to share his ideas and information. He was passionately interested in world affairs and was never without an opinion on recent developments. Our sorrow is lessened only slightly with the comforting thought that we had the privilege to know him.”

The Minister also extended condolences to the family of Blair John and gave them some words of encouragement.

“I wish to leave with you all something I read recently by an unknown author: “Some

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are bound to be young; by dying young a person stays young in people’s memories. If he burns brightly before he dies, his brightness shines for all time. Blair and Alrae will always burn brightly

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in our memories for all time,” said Mr. Henfield. “To the Ramsey and John families, our hearts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.”

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year tenure every generation and people from all walks of life were touched by her grace and compassion.

“During your last 12 months in office, you traveled to primary schools throughout the archipelago to promote the importance of education; the responsibilities of citizenship, and the need for self-respect and love among young people.

“You have served with distinction as the representative of our head of state, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II,” the Prime

Minister said.

Also attending the ceremony were Dame Marguerite’s children – sons Obie and Leslie, and daughters Michelle and Monique, other family members, Leader of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, the Hon. Philip Davis, and Chief Justice of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, the Hon. Mr. Justice Brian Moree.

Picture this - 2019 Changeover Celebrated By Eleuthera Rotary

Members of the Rotary Club of Eleuthera held their 2019 Changeover celebration on Friday evening, June 28th, at the Correne Sands Hall, within the Cancer Society’s Wellness Center in Palmetto Point. President Sandra Ingraham, of Tarpum Bay, along with her fellow club members celebrated the end of a successful Rotary year as she officially handed over the gavel to Incoming President, Susan Culmer, of Palmetto Point. It was a very special night that was shared with Rotary family members, Rotaractors and friends. A very special guest on the evening was District Governor, Patrick Adizua, from Manderville, Jamaica, who was on island visiting with the Rotary Club of Eleuthera. (L-R: Outgoing President, Sandra Ingraham; District Governor, Patrick Adizua; and Incoming President, Susan Culmer)