The Eleutheran Newspaper May/June Issue 2019

Volume 12, Issue 05 /12, 2019 web: WWW.ELEUTHERANEWS.COM

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Eleuthera, Harbour Island & Spanish Wells, The Bahamas

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` Since 2008 - ‘‘Eleuthera’s most reliable Source of News and Information.

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A New Online Management System upgrade for Immigration in Eleuthera Immigration offices in Spanish Wells, North Eleuthera, Governor’s Harbour and Rock Sound have been upgraded with the new Department of Immigration’s Identification Management System (IDMS). According to the Department of Immigration, the new system, described as the next generation of border control technology, is meant as a contemporary solution to their performance deficiencies.

Key features of the system include; improved efficiency and

An Immigration Officer explores the new system ADVICE:

speed of application processing, the move to a paperless process with digitization of files, the introduction of electronic workflow management - to aid in tracking the application process, and improved security controls in viewing, retrieving and modification of scanned documents.

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22 (Stale Marriage) ; 13 (Get Ready BAHAMAS! - hurricane season) |

Opinion:

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2019 EBO Diverse Speakers Highlight

Growth Areas and Opportunities on Island

The 2019 Eleuthera Business Outlook (EBO), hosted by The Counsellor’s Ltd. Group (TCL) at Frigate’s Restaurant in Rock Sound, South Eleuthera on Friday, May 17th, 2019, featured a diverse line up of presenters and speakers, all focused on what is currently seen as a time of growth on the island of Eleuthera.

Deputy Director General in the Ministry of Tourism, Elliston Thompson; The Other Side’s Ben Simmons;

Bahamas Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) K. Peter Turnquest; Water and Sewerage (WSC) Chairman, Adrian Gibson; BTC Chief Commercial Officer, Andre Knowles; Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) Executive Director, Davinia Blair; A team from the Inland Revenue Department; Cable Bahamas Director of Sales, Charnette Thompson; and Bahamas Development Bank Man-

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New Medical Center in Harbour Island

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Making Business Easier

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Illegal Migrants Apprehended

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TOP Eleuthera Primary Students

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Tour De Lootra: Still Growing

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Primary Athletes Rep. Well at Nationals

An Eleutheran Profile: 14 Haiti Flag Day (Eleuthera) 2019 -

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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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EBO 2019 ‘HIGHLIGHTS’ Continued from Page. 1 aging Director, Dave Smith, all presented on various aspects of growth opportunities, partnerships, changing public policies, infrastructure investments and the state of the ease of doing business and starting businesses in Eleuthera.

Driving much of the growth and activity seen in 2018 and early 2019 was the significant increase in visitor numbers to the Bahamas, up nationwide during the last quarter of 2018, with Eleuthera as no exception, showing a 23% increase in most recent stats. Ben Simmons, owner of the innovative ‘The Other Side’ property on mainland North Eleuthera spoke about blazing new trails, with his solar powered ‘Glamping’ site, featuring rows of ‘farm to table’ fresh greens and vegetables - the property concept described as, “… a blend of home meets safari tempered with a few conventional hotel amenities…”

DPM Turnquest updated the capacity audience of business owners and managers from throughout Eleuthera and New Providence, on what he termed as, “A mixed portfolio of development projects,” coming on stream in Eleuthera and encouraged his listeners to take advantage of the opportu-

Shown addressing the audience at the 2019 EBO: Bahamas Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) K. Peter Turnquest.

nities they would bring, as well as the government programs, like the SBDC’s Access Accelerator and others, put in place to spur and support local business development.

“The SBDC knows that my ultimate dream is to make indigenous, organic multi-

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immigration ‘upgrade’ Continued from Page. 1

Among other new advantages, Mrs. Darling, Chief Immigration Officer and Officer in Charge of the Eleuthera district, highlighted that forms for various immigration services are now available online, and original documents provided by applicants in office are no longer kept and sent into Nassau, but instead, are scanned into the online system, which is connected in real-time to the Department of Immigration in New Providence, and immediately returned to the applicant.

This change now ensures that there is no longer the possibility of original documents being ‘lost’ in the now obsolete paper trail system, and the status of an application can now be monitored online in real-time. “We also now do all the bio-metrics and fingerprinting right here on island,” said Mrs. Darling.

The new system, implemented in early April 2019 in Eleuthera, has already seen the results of the changes, she added, “It’s been good. We’ve already seen it working. It’s been just a short time since we got it in, and we have already received responses from a number of applications submitted… The regular response could have been anywhere, from two months and onwards - sometimes you may not have heard back, because of documents/applications getting lost…

“This now cuts all of those bottlenecks out, and we can also track the movement of what is happening. We can now see the status of an application, and we can have an

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estimation of how long it will take. As an example, as soon as an applicant pays here for an approved application and we take the bio-metrics, once submitted, we can see that the actual immigration card/s have gone to production right away - so that has cut the time down.”

The different services now available through the IDMS system also now include temporary permits, said Mrs. Darling, “Short term, up to 30 days emergency work permits, we can also now do right here. An example would be like an aircraft mechanic coming in, also sometimes people have items under warranty that they need a servicemen to come in from where it was bought from, or someone may have specialty work that needs to be done. It’s not to be abused, but the service is available within the local offices.”

For applicants who submitted original documents with applications before the new system came online, Mrs. Darling advised that they have now been scanned in New Providence, and returned to the Immigration Office in Governor’s Harbour. So, she advised those applicants on island to come in to collect and secure their original documents.

Some of those applications, said Mrs. Darling, may have already been approved, so, once applicants come in, they would be able to have their approval letter printed right away. Official receipts, are also able to be printed locally, in office as well. She

highlighted that once approvals for both renewals and first time applications are received, that full payment would now have to be made to action the generation of approval letters and to initiate production of cards.

May/June, 2019 Mrs. Darling added that those applicants who provided the Department with their email addresses, would also now see approvals or refusals forwarded to them by email.

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Emily Georgenia Petty Primary School Stakeholders from throughout the wider community, family and close associates joined Ministry of Education officials and Government Leaders in honouring Ms. Petty.

New School Sign Unveiled: PM Minnis (right) with Ms. Emily Petty (left), along with officials, family, friends and community supporters.

BY The eleutheran news team

Active in almost every echelon of society, community standout, Ms. Emily Petty of Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, was given the high honour of having the Governor’s Harbour Primary School renamed the Emily Georgenia Petty Primary School during a special ceremony held on the grounds of the 108-year-old institution on Friday, May 3rd, 2019.

Tented seating areas were filled to capacity, with supportive community members, dignitaries, family and friends, leaving only standing room for those who didn’t arrive early for the 10am start. Along with MP for Central and South Eleuthera, Mr. Hank Johnson; Minister of Education, Mr. Jeffery Lloyd; as well as other education, church and government officials, Prime Minister, the Most Honourable, Hubert Minnis was also in attendance, and delivered the key-

note address.

Prime Minister Minnis, acknowledged the morning’s honours as, “… A fitting recognition of a woman of faith and courage who, with generosity and passion, donated her lifeblood to her country…

“Because of nation-builders like Emily Petty, scores of young people have enjoyed the freedom to pursue their dreams because they were afforded an education… Today we celebrate Emily Petty and all the educators on Eleuthera and throughout The Bahamas, who, over successive generations, dedicated their hearts and lives to educating our children and young people.”

The Prime Minister also thanked the Minister of Education the Hon. Jeffrey Lloyd -- who too lauded the accomplishments of Ms. Petty in remarks at the renaming ceremony, and the entire hardworking staff of the Ministry of Education for their work throughout the country. Prime Minister Minnis, as he concluded his address, said, “It is my hope that today’s proceedings will inspire a new generation of educators, both male and female.”

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Classified:

THE DUNMORE HOTEL:

HELP WANTED

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Please contact Omari Headley at 242.333.2200 Ext. 770, or, if in the area please come by the Managers Office to fill out an application.

Classified:

FRENCH LEAVE RESORT:

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

French Leave Resort in Governor’s Harbour is looking to hire: Housekeeping and Guest Room Attendants, Housekeeping Supervisor, and Dishwashers.

Serious applicants only.

Please contact Jennifer Hadland at 242.332.2778 or email jhadland@frenchleaveresort.com.

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NORTH ELEUTHERA:

FOR RENT

Apartment for rent!

A specious two bed room condo style apartment, with a hill top view. Centrally Located in north Eleuthera minutes away from both Harbour Island and Spanish wells ferry Docks!

Please call 448-3195 for more information.

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CENTRAL ELEUTHERA:

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Efficiency Apartment, located on Knowles Drive, North Governor’s Harbour.

Private area. Preference given to a single person occupant or a couple.

For more information: Call 829-4541.

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co m menta ry

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CARIcom MUST UNIFY TO RESIST IMPOSITION OF OAS BOSS They would be wrong to dismiss interest in the holders of these positions.

Caribbean small states are already marginalised in the world with little account being taken of the significant threats posed to their well-being. Among those threats are climate change, global warming, exclusion from access to concessional funds for development, very poor terms of trade, increasing erosion of their sovereign rights over matters such as the rate of taxes they charge and the incentives they offer to businesses so as to remain globally competitive in the industries that provide employment and the opportunity for ownership.

In this context, it is vitally important to people in small and vulnerable countries that the CEO’s of inter-governmental organisations are persons with a commitment to reducing poverty, advancing economic development, improving

By Sir Ronald Sanders access to education and training, and promoting international arrangements that allow developing countries to compete in the global community.

(The writer is Ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to the United States and the Organi- It is also important that such CEO’s be genuinely sation of American States. He is also a Senior interested in safeguarding human rights, protectFellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Stud- ing citizens from abuse by governments, and upies at the University of London and at Massey holding democracy and freedom of expression.

College in the University of Toronto. The These are the qualities that heads of multilatviews expressed are entirely his own) eral and international organisations should possess if they are to serve the interests of the global Readers of this commentary, particularly community, particularly the people of small and those in small countries, might wonder why vulnerable nations. they should be concerned about who is the Chief Inevitably, however, governments of larger Executive Officer (CEO) of any multilateral or and more powerful countries dictate the persons international organisation. It could be claimed who end-up in these positions. These governthat the disposition of the person, holding such ments select candidates, who serve their interan office, is far removed from the existence of ests, and using their greater financial resources people who are focussed on the necessities of and capacity to pressure others, they ensure their living and improving their lives. appointments.

In the cases of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, the European Union and the U.S. have long since arrogated the posts of heads of these organisations to themselves through an understanding between them that the U.S. will hold the headship of the Bank and the Europeans the headship of the Fund. Invariably, the holders of these posts are then in thrall to their patrons and, over the decades of the existence of the two organisations, few of them have strayed far from the positions of their sponsors.

There are only a few organisations in which Caribbean countries have a genuine opportunity to influence who is elected as their chief executive. The Organisation of American States (OAS) is one of them.

Repeatedly, I have called for the 14 member states of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), that are also members of the OAS, to nominate one suitably qualified Caribbean candidate for the post of Secretary-General or to agree on a non-Caribbean person who would be mindful of the importance of Caribbean interests.

It is alarming that, counter to all electoral arrangements that have ever been instituted for the election of the OAS Secretary-General, certain governments are busy promoting the idea that, at the OAS General Assembly in Colombia in June, 18 countries should force through the re-election of the incumbent, Luis Almagro, for a second term – one year before such an election is due, and for which no proper arrangements have been made. This process is usually called “rigging”.

Such an action would be as unprecedented as it would be wrong. A forced re-election of Mr. Almagro, one year before an election is due, would be highly improper. But, it could be done.

The rules allow for the nomination of a candidate up to the morning of the day an election is held. And, if, as has been the recent experience, 18 countries vote to hold such an election at the General Assembly in June, it can be done.

In this way, any possibility of an unprepared CARICOM nominating a single Caribbean candidate or coalescing behind an approved non-Caribbean candidate, would be scuttled. The decision of the 18 would prevail, and the interests of the Caribbean and the Caribbean people would be swept aside.

That is why Caribbean people should be interested in this matter, and in the position that their governments take.

The behaviour of Mr. Almagro as Secretary-General of the OAS has left much to be desired. He is a very bright and clever man, and with a different attitude, he might have served well the OAS and all its member-states. But, instead of ending divisions by building bridges between states and working to garner consensus within the organisation, Mr. Almagro has become a divisive figure.

Further, his disregard for the Permanent Council, which is comprised of

open holidays

the representatives of governments, and his readiness to pronounce his own strongly-held views in the name of the OAS, have compromised the organisation, depriving it of a role in resolving conflicts within member states of the organisation and between them. Additionally, the Caribbean has suffered under his stewardship through the absence of any advocacy on his part to maintain funding for Caribbean programmes.

Beyond the necessity for a challenge to him, given his record, his forced re-election by any foisted process would leave the OAS in tatters.

It may even cause some member states to reassess the value of their continued membership of an organisation which is ruled by the will of a simple majority and the officers they impose.

For previous elections of a Secretary-General, including Mr. Almagro’s own election, the Permanent Council of the OAS put rules and procedures in place. Amongst those rules were that a date for elections would be set by the Permanent Council and member states would nominate candidates who would make public presentations to the Organisation on their proposals and initiatives prior to the elections.

It has never been envisaged, as is being done now by some governments, that the preparation for elections of the Secretary-General would not follow established rules and that a fully democratic process would not be adopted.

CARICOM states will have to assert themselves immediately in the OAS in nothing short of full regional solidarity and unity to insist on a Permanent Council meeting that sets the rules for the elections on a democratic and consensus basis. Anything less than full CARICOM unity will hurt the region’s interests.

Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com

A DV I c E

GET READY BAHAMAS!

By Mike Lightbourn If you live near the coast, you should always be prepared to be hit by a Hurricane Andrew, Joaquim, Irma or Matthew.

I am not trying to be sensational. I’m simply adapting the language used by AcuuWeather forecasters to urge residents to prepare for the 2019 Hurricane Season.

The official Atlantic hurricane season opened June 1 and the first named storm Andrea - has already come and gone.

AccuWeather is predicting a near to slightly above-normal season, calling for between 12 to 14 tropical storms in the Atlantic between June 1 and November 30 when the season officially ends.

Of those, five to seven are forecast to become hurricanes and two to four are predicted to become major hurricanes.

Of course, these are only predictions, but we all know it takes just one hurricane to cause devastation.

So, with June 1 just passed, residents should prepare for the possibility of major storms.

Grading Storms A tropical system becomes a tropical storm when it maintains sustained wind speeds of 39 miles per hour.

The storm becomes a hurricane when winds hit 74 miles per hour.

Major hurricanes are classified as Categories Three, Four or Five in terms of wind strength, but storms that are less powerful can still cause a lot of damage, especially

from storm surge and flooding.

Category Three hurricanes have sustained winds of 111 to 129 mph. Cat Fours generate winds of 130 to 156 mph and Cat Five hurricanes carry catastrophic winds over 156 mph.

NOW is the time to implement the following Seven Day Plan, adapted from the NOAA weather service, if you have not done so already.

DAY 1 - Determine Your Risk Is your property vulnerable to wind and water damage? If the answer is yes, take whatever steps you can now to deal with this possibility. Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem as there are a lot of low-lying areas inland. Make a list to immediately stock up with sandbags and anything else you may need beforehand while supplies are still available.

Day 2 - Develop an Evacuation Plan If your home is vulnerable, identify where you, your family and your pets will go in the event of a hurricane. Where will you secure your vehicle and/or boat?

DAY 3 - Insurance Check Is your homeowner’s insurance enough to cover repairs or even replace your home?

What about your vehicle or boat? Does your insurance cover flooding?

Insurance companies WILL NOT issue policies if the country is under a storm threat.

DAY 4 - Gather Disaster Supplies Assemble enough water, non-perishable food, medicine and pet supplies to last each person and pet in the family a mini-

mum of one week. Make sure you have cleaning supplies on hand.

Secure passports, important documents and treasured photos in waterproof bags.

DAY 5 - Reinforce Your Home Make sure your home and hurricane shutters or hurricane proof windows (and frames) are in good repair. Have your generator serviced if you have one and secure proper fuel storage containers to have on hand.

Prune tree branches close to roofs and trim coconuts from trees.

DAY 6 - Identify TRUSTED sources for hurricane information. The Bahamas Meteorological Department is your official source for information.

The Met Department will cover the situation as it relates to hurricane watches, warnings, strikes and reporting for the country, including individual at risk islands.

NOAA’s National Hurricane Center and Central Pacific Hurricane Center are good online sources for hurricane tracking.

AVOID SOCIAL MEDIA HYSTERIA. False information created an unnecessary panic at the pumps in New Providence after Hurricane Matthew.

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DAY 7 - Finish your list.

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: Mrs. Cassandra Winifred Louise Cartwright Thompson (65 yrs.)

BY elizabeth bryan

An Eleutheran Profile: Mrs. Cassandra Winifred Thompson

Introduction A weeklong celebration, from May 20th to 25th, of a life given to service in education came to a grand end, with an elegant evening banquet, and not a seat to spare - at Worker’s House, as the Central Eleuthera community demonstrated their appreciation for Mrs. Cassandra Winifred Louise Cartwright Thompson, a very special woman, who had dedicated her life to imparting knowledge to the youngest in society. Earlier in the week, Mrs. Thompson was celebrated with a special retirement ceremony assembly event, luncheons with past and current students, as well as, a church service celebrating her sacrifice. After serving as a teacher for 47 years, with most of those years spent in Eleuthera, Mrs. Thompson, has positively impacted the lives of countless children, and their children, contributing to a solid foundation in their education for them to build on as they progressed in life.

To share some of her life and times and memories, Mrs. Thompson sat and chatted with ‘The Eleutheran’ a few days after her retirement celebration week - still in school, sitting comfortably at her desk, with a stack of exam papers in front of her - because although, her official retirement date was on February 7th, 2019, her dedication was to her students and the importance of finishing out

the year with them - in preparation for their seamless move from k4 into grade 1. “I’m here as a supply teacher now.

I do it because we don’t have a teacher for K4, and I don’t think it’s right to just leave the children. There is a lot of paperwork,” she said, while lifting one of the twenty plus page examination booklets from its packet, “This is a post-test for K4 from the Ministry of Education, and I have twenty-five children, so you can imagine.”

Early Days Cassandra Winifred Louise Cartwright Thompson was born on February 7th, in 1954 in Lower Deadman’s Cay, on Long Island to the late Lucy and Carlos Cartwright. She was the youngest girl with four older sisters (Amerol, Alvira, Ardina, and Ingrid), a twin brother, Elias, and a younger brother, Carlos - six siblings altogether.

“There were seven of us, and I was a twin,” said Mrs. Thompson. “Being a twin with a boy, you know they always protect you, but to me, I thought he was too overprotective of me. I couldn’t talk to any boys, so, you know what I use to do? In those days you would back your books, so, anybody I wrote to, I would put my letter in the backing of the book,” laughed Mrs. Thompson, “so, he couldn’t find it.” Maturity, however,

made Mrs. Thompson realize how grateful she was to her brother for his care. “In College I wrote him a letter to thank him. However, I still said that if I ever had twins, I wouldn’t want it to be a boy and girl - let me have two boys or two girls. When I did get pregnant with twins, I had two girls, and I could not take back my wish. However, God blessed us with two boys first, so they were still able to protect them - and that’s important while you are young.”

Life as a young girl coming up was not easy, she recalled. “In Long Island, while growing up we never had electricity. In fact, I got married, came back, and we didn’t get electricity until 1992. We used the lamp - we did our homework by lamp.

We also had to go for wood. I don’t forget where I come from - we had to go in the bush to get wood.

We were glad when someone cut a field, because we could use the wood, and we would make sure to put it somewhere it could dry out.

“We use to pick shells, the gold shells, put them in a bottle - and let them stay for a few days.

When they were ready, we would shake them up and clean them - and they would be gold, and we would sell them for like $10 per quart. And it took so much to make a quart, because these were those little small gold shells. So, when we were growing up, I knew about working hard. We farmed…

I remember us cutting the bananas and toting them in the buggy, and picking mangoes. I remember my father and mother had more than 50 mango trees in our yard. They grew everything in our surrounding yard. When we walked the roads, other bananas would be hanging in the road, but nobody bothered them. You would also pass mango trees with fruit dropping down, because everybody had mangoes, and everybody had bananas and other foods to go with it. We grew and ate off of the land. That’s why you saw so many of the older people go on for so long - they ate off of the land.

You grew everything. We never bought meat. We reared our own chickens, sheep, and goats. We also had our own eggs. Today, you are not sure what you are eating, but back then we knew what was organic. So, even though we had to work hard, we enjoyed it.

“I also had to walk - three miles to school to and from. When they moved us from Lower Deadman’s Cay - because they turned it into a primary school - to N.G.M. Major high school, at that time there was no school bus. So, we had to walk. I walked for one full term to high school, then my parents bought me a bicycle, and I would ride to school after that. In those days, when we would ride our bikes, the guys in our class would ride with us, but they were more like our brothers. They protected us - they were not like how it is today. We would go together and come back together, and it was really fun.”

Career and Family Beginnings - family…

“My sister Ardina came to Eleuthera first, when she got married. Her husband Edgar, on a friend’s advice, visited Long Island during Regatta time, and met Dina, and they fell in love,” said Mrs. Thompson, and as fate would have it, her love story was also through a close friend. “I met Joyce Colebrooke, from Governor’s Harbour, at a clinic in Nassau, where we had to get our medical to go to College, and we became close friends…

In 1972, I went to College, and in 1973 I came

to Eleuthera on a visit, and Joyce introduced me to Mark. It was at something they were having in Palmetto Point, and she introduced him as her ‘brother’. That was in the summer of 1973. After that we went back to College in September 1973, and Joyce then wrote a letter to Mark, and signed it like I was writing the letter. She played the matchmaker, and it really happened! I got a letter back from him, and wondered about some of the things he asked about, like pictures. So, I said to Joyce - ‘You wrote this man this letter?’, and she said yes, ‘I wrote it because I want him for you, because that’s my friend, and I think you would make him a good wife.’ It’s amazing how love grows, because we started to write each other from then, and fell in love. So, it was really Joyce who brought us together.”

Over the years, Mr. and Mrs. Thompson were blessed with six children: Shafeeq, Muqtasid, Aqueelah, Jameelah, Akeem and the late Cindy Thompson. Today, the family continues to blossom, with six grandchildren - Maleeah, Shafeeq, Mikaela, Shantae, Italia and Philip.

Beginnings - career…

During her time at the Teacher’s College, the then budding educator, got the opportunity to see other parts of the Bahamas, with three sessions of teaching practice, during her three-year training, she said. “I went on teaching practice to a number of locations while in Teacher’s College on San Salvador. My first location was in Mastic Point, Andros, during ‘73, where I did a threeweek teaching practice. There I had a grade one, where they had to split the children, because it was a lot of children. I had twenty-five in the class. In 1974, I spent time in Forbes Hill, Exuma - that was a four-week practice, and in February of 1975, I did another four-week session of teaching practice right here in Governor’s Harbour, on Cupid’s Cay. The primary school then was below the Methodist Church and at the Parish Hall, and at that time, the high school was housed where the primary school is today. Grades 1 and 2 were underneath the Methodist Church, and Mr. Melvin Bonaby was principal then.”

During June of that year, 21 year-old Winifred ‘Cartwright’ graduated from Teacher’s College in San Salvador and went on to her first posting as a trained teacher, back at home in Lower Deadman’s Cay - teaching fifteen students of grade 1, with a Mr. K. L. Ritchie as principal.

What’s in a name…

Before she got married, “Winifred” who had to submit documents for the marriage license, got a bit of a shock. “I went through school as Winifred Louise, but I went in to get my birth certificate and found out that I had actually been named Cassandra Louise.

“My real name was Cassandra Louise, but what happened is, when I got christened, the priest changed it to Winifred as a Christian name.

“I got married as Cassandra, but I had gone all the way through College and everything as Winifred.

“Now I’ve had to change and use Cassandra, so I now go as Cassandra Winifred Louise,” smiled Mrs. Thompson.

Eleuthera Life…

Cassandra Winifred Cartwright and Mark Thompson were married in August of 1976, and she made the move to Eleuthera.

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“Well, you know I had a sister here [in Eleuthera] already. When I came over - I didn’t usually keep company. I liked to stay by myself. Plus, I was young. So, once I came to school, the other teachers were my friends, and I didn’t have a lot of time to visit anybody... at that time I would talk a lot on the phone, and I still do that. Once you come into the classroom, that’s a full job, then when you go home, you have to cook and all that, and take care of your family. So that’s how I was.

“On weekends, I would work the bar [at Ronnie’s Hideaway], and it was the funniest thing - I looked forward to that. On Friday nights and on Saturday nights, I would help out there.

“Ronnie’s” had already been started before we were married, so, I met Mark with that business.

“That was his mother and father’s business, and he just continued on with it - His mother was from Governor’s Harbour, and his father was from Palmetto Point,” she added. Smiling, she reminisced how they all worked together in the business, saying, “Mark back then would take care of the bar, and I collected at the door for the dance, and when Club Med was open, we would transport visitors from there to Ronnie’s.

“I liked it, because you were interacting with children throughout the week, with all the different issues that come with that. Let’s say I would be thinking about a child, and how I would I deal with this? By the time you got to work over there [at Ronnie’s], they would be talking all kind of foolishness - all your worries, it would just take everything away - and it made me laugh. So, every Friday night, I actually looked forward to it.”

In September of 1976 Mrs. Thompson took up her teaching post at the Governor’s Harbour All Age School. By this time, the school had moved back to the location of what is now the Emily G. Petty Primary School. Smiling, she recalled some of the major challenges at the time being a lack of materials, coupled with an extremely modest paycheck. “When I started out at the College, I remember making $208 per month, and once you got your letter as a new trained teacher, you got a little raise. I can’t remember what that exact number was, but it wasn’t much,” she chuckled. “Increments bring it [salary] up after a while, but materials were the challenge.”

The list of principals she worked with during the span of her storied career included: Mr. Melvin Bonaby, Mrs. Van Oldham, Mr. Huntley Christie, Mr. Eric Sands, Mr. Garfield Hepburn, Ms. Shilia Scavella, Mrs. Desiree Forbes, Mrs. Karen Crean, Mrs. Levada Ingraham, Mr. Herman Johnson, Ms. Emily Petty and Mrs. Tanya McPhee Pinder (chronological).

Clockwise from top: 1)In embrace - Mr. and Mrs. Thompson. 2)Gathered are extended family and friends standing with the Thompson family during the elegant retirement banquet held for Mrs. Cassandra Winifred Thompson. 3)The immediate family of Mrs. Thompson share in her very special evening - (L-R) Jameelah Thompson, Akeem Thompson, Mark Thompson, Cassandra Winifred Thompson, Aqueelah Turner, Shafeeq Thompson and Muqtasid Thompson.

Describing the ‘multi-tasking’ nature of the years teaching, Mrs. Thompson shared, “I was teaching grade 1 when I first started at Governor’s Harbour All Age, and I can’t recall when my colleague, Daphne Cooper left - except that it was during the time that Mr. Eric Sands was principal.

However, she taught Mathematics for the Bahamas Junior Certificate (BJC) national exam. When she left, in addition to my regular classes, I also taught BJC Mathematics to grades 6 through 9. I would set my class with their work in grade 1, and would leave one of my best students in charge until I returned… and some people complain today!”

Cassandra Winifred would spend 23 consecutive years and career at Governor’s Harbour All Age, In 1999, the now seasoned educator, was transferred to the Emma E. Cooper primary school - known then as Palmetto Point primary, where she worked with principal Levada Ingraham. In 2003, Mr. Herman Johnson joined the school as principal until he was transferred in 2008. When he was transferred, Mrs. Thompson was also transferred back to Governor’s Harbour primary, where principal Ms. Emily Petty had also just taken up her post after a stint as principal in James’ Cistern.

Principal Petty retired eight years later, in 2016, and Mrs. Thompson would then work with her final principal at the school, Mrs. Tanya Pinder, until the end of the 2018/2019 school year. A tenure as a Bahamian Educator totalling 47 years including the three years spent in the Teacher’s College in San Salvador,.

Church Life…& “Pete” In Long Island they are strong Anglicans, said Mrs. Thompson. “Every settlement had an Anglican Church, when I was growing up. I remember in those days, you had to go to church early to get a seat, especially when Father Pestina was there. He had actually come over from Eleuthera to Long Island in 1963.

So, we use to go to church every Sunday. We would go to morning service, and then to Sunday School in the afternoons. When Father Pestina came, we had service in the morning, then a 5pm service that everyone would go to.

“After I returned from College, and was teaching in Deadman’s Cay, I was the youth coordinator at St. Athanasius’ Anglican church from 1975 to 1976. I think the sign that is still there was painted by Edwin Burrows on Cupid’s Cay - right there at St. Athanasius’. That’s where he was originally from [Lower Deadman’s Cay]. Then when I moved to Eleuthera, I taught Sunday School at Saint Patrick’s Anglican, here in Governor’s Harbour - right up until 1989 when I was pregnant with my twins. We even had a Sunday school curriculum then, with some really nice stories. I still remember, ‘Pete, the little goat’ - one of my students would always ask me to read,” said Mrs. Thompson, laughing softly as she thought back.

Fun Life… “BuT how did you get in that tv?”

Life was about, ‘teaching little ones at school’, ‘teaching little ones at church’, ‘bringing up little ones at home’, ‘working in the family business’ and ... time to do fun things in the community.

“I used to do drama and acting as well.

We had a ‘Kool and the Gang’ drama group, made up of people from school, church and community - all the civil servants. This was before 1989, and we would perform in the St. Patrick’s Parish Hall, and put on plays. I remember it was before 1989, because after I had the twins, a customs officer friend who acted with us came to the hospital to visit, with fruits and flowers… Let me tell you, we used to have some jokes. It was really fun, and people really enjoyed it.

“I remember this lady, who used to cook, came to me after a play, telling me she had enjoyed it, then she asked, ‘But how did you get into that TV’? A Canadian guy who lived here had recorded one of the plays, so people could watch the recording… Well, I laughed,” said Mrs. Thompson.

“The old people used to sit right up

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May/June, 2019

‘friends of the library’ groups in dialogue – the Focus – ‘Communication’

Above: (center) Director of Libraries, Dorcas Bowler, stands with public librarians located throughout the length and breadth of Eleuthera from Current and Harbour Island in the north to Wemyss Bight in the south, along with ‘Friends of the Library’ group.

BY The eleutheran news team

Dorcas Bowler, Director of Libraries for the Bahamas, with her colleague in Library Services, Marsha Major, met with librarians from across Eleuthera at the historic Haynes Library in Governor’s Harbour. The meeting itself was a history making one, being the first time in recent years that such a large group of librarians - more

than 13 staff members - from all ends of the island had gotten together in that way.

On the agenda by the Director for discussion amongst the librarians, was the regularization of a number of currently non-permanent public library staff, library automation software being slowly rolled out to libraries beyond New Providence, new library cards planned for the public system, as

well as the culture of SMART goals for libraries being encouraged by the Bahamas Library Service within the Ministry of Education.

Locally, with long-serving librarian, Roz Seyfert, having retired earlier in the year from her role as supervisor at the Haynes Library - new supervisor, Althea Willie, and the highly involved ‘Friends

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An Eleutheran Profile Continued from pg. 15 front. Whenever we had ‘Kool and the Gang’, I know Mrs. Farrington and all of them would go early, and sit up front to wait for us to perform. People looked forward to that. I remember when we did ‘We are the World’, and all of us were dressed up. I was Cyndi Lauper, and I had my hair in all different colours, and Stephanie Bethel was Michael Jackson, someone else was Stevie Wonder. It was good, really good. It was so much fun then.”

Sage advice…

As a teacher of near five decades, with countless experiences in the profession under her belt, Mrs. Thompson was asked about what advice she would give to a young teacher today, starting out their journey in education, and she offered this advice, “A lot of things have now changed.

There is so much more that the Ministry is asking for. So, what they have to do is to stay focused. Don’t wait for the last minute to do something, because you don’t know what you may have for the next day.

And even though you may say it’s a lot of work, your effort and your work pay off.

So, stay focused, and don’t worry about anything. Don’t mind what people tell you.

Some older teachers may tell you that you don’t have to do this or do that - but what you need to do is listen to your principal.

That is the key. Work with your principal, and do what they ask you to do. At the end of the year, they have to write your evaluation. Also, the most important thing when you come into the system - it would be good if you can get along with everyone, and be like a family. You will accomplish so much when you are like a family - and be happy!

Hopefully, teaching is something you enjoy doing. I loved it.”

DIR says starting a Small Biz is now faster and easier with new provisional licenses

The Department of Inland Revenue (DIR) recently announced that it is continuing its efforts to improve ease of doing business by helping to speed up the process for entrepreneurs to start a new business.

Provisional licences are now available for what the Department has termed “low-risk” businesses. It is granted as part of the business licence application process.

Low-risk businesses include home-based businesses, sole proprietors and other small businesses in non-regulated sectors. These types of businesses make up the bulk of small business start-ups. They are eligible for a provisional licence when they complete a first time application for a business licence.

“Our early ease of doing business initiatives have systematically targeted small businesses; they represent the majority of businesses and form the backbone of the economy. Earlier this year, we removed the fee for starting a new business. Next, DIR implemented a system to renew business licences in under 48-hours. Now, we have introduced a provisional licence to help entrepreneurs get started faster and easier,” said K. Peter Turnquest, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance.

After submitting a completed business licence application, eligible businesses are able to get a Provisional Licence to operate for 90 days while they wait for approvals to be processed by other government agencies.

Ultimately, new businesses will still need agency approvals from the National Insurance Board, Department of Environment Health, Department of Physical Planning and other relevant entities. However, while these pro-

cesses are underway, the provisional licence will enable them to move forward with critical tasks to get up and running immediately.

“I am a firm believer that to the greatest extent possible, the general public should not be inconvenienced by our own inefficiencies.

As we digitize more of our processes and integrate systems to streamline inter-agency communication we will be able to deliver more efficient services across government. In the meantime, we are implementing immediate measures to increase the ease of doing business now,” said Minister Turnquest.

Incorporated companies, non-Bahamian companies, and businesses with storefronts or operating in regulated industries are not eligible. While provisional licences are not available to every business, they do cover a large majority of small businesses in the country.

Businesses that fall under one of the following categories, are likely eligible for a Provisional Licence.

- Admin Services; Apparel & Textile Manufacturing; Art & Craft Vendors; Audio-Visual Production; Civic Organizations; Clothing and Accessory Retail; Couriers and Messengers; Florists; Furniture Manufacturing; General Merchandise Retail; Housekeeping Services; Marketing and Public Relations; Printing and Publishing Services; Plumbing, Roofing, Fencing Contractors; Professional Associations; Small Contractor and Construction Service Providers For more information, visit: inlandrevenue.finance.gov.bs.

Source: Central Communications Unit, MOF

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Immigration and Police apprehend illegal migrants in mini-operations No Eleuthera boat landings spotted in 2019 through May, but about 100 people found illegally on the island.

BY The eleutheran news team

Immigration Officers from North, Central and South Eleuthera conducted a round-up exercise from Harbour Island to Wemyss Bight on Friday, May 24th, 2019.

As a result, four (4) Haitian Nationals were taken into custody - three (3) women and one (1) man. Later that evening Immigration Officers joined Eleuthera Division Police Officers in ‘Operation Mix and Mingle’ which resulted in one additional Haitian man being arrested, bringing the total number of people in custody to three (3)

women and two (2) men.

All five (5) detainees were escorted into New Providence on Saturday morning, May 25th, 2019 and turned over to authorities in the capital for further processing.

Officer in Charge of the Eleuthera district, Mrs. Shemah Darling, commented that with no major boat landings intercepted in 2019 to date, the efforts of the Immigration team in Eleuthera have been focused on miniroundups, at regular intervals, which have not stopped. She placed the estimated number of illegal migrants taken

into custody on island since January at about 100.

Mrs. Darling recommended strongly to permit holders to make sure that their renewals are up-to-date. With the new Identification Management System (IDMS) now in place throughout the island, officers can immediately check statuses in real-time. Once approvals for both renewals and first time applications are received, she commented, that full payment would now have to be made to action the generation of approval letters and to initiate production of cards.

Illegal Migrants in Custody: Transported to New Providence by local officials following a mini-operation on island.

Immigration Officer in Charge of the Eleuthera district, Mrs. Shemah Darling (shown foreground right).

Tire Empire

expands services to Governor’s Harbour

(L-R): Mr. Benjamin Thomas with Mr. Reginald Holbert at Tire Umpire, Governor’s Harbour.

Tire Umpire, which had one location in Gregory Town, has now expanded into the settlement of Governor’s Harbour, partnering with Culmer’s Service Station - conveniently located directly on Queen’s Highway, just south of Byron’s Hardware.

About the opening of the new second location, key principal, Mr. Reginald Holbert, announced, “We expanded into Governor’s Harbour, and are now offering diagnostics on engines and tires. We sell LED lights, and also offer tune-ups. We have oil, oil filters, spark plugs, and of course both brand new and used tires. We also offer car tinting, car washing, servicing and much more.”

The inspiration for the move into Governor’s, said Mr. Holbert, was increased demand by clients south of Gregory Town, “Most of our clients from the central area and further south kept telling us that Gregory Town was too far, encouraging us to come down, so we made up our mind to come, and partnered with Mr. Culmer, who told us to go ahead and do what we had to do. So, now we are here!” At the new location, Mr. Holbert is assisted by his associate, Mr. Benjamin Thomas.

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Police Inspector Julian Newbold ordained as

Assistant Pastor with Global Outreach Ministries

Above: Praise and Worship by the GOM Chorale preceded the ordination ceremony for Julian Newbold as the new Assistant Pastor at Global Outreach Ministries, on Sunday, May 5th, 2019. Pastors and clergy from all over Eleuthera joined supporting members of the public, church members, friends and family in support of Assistant Pastor Newbold’s new role.

BY The eleutheran news team

Inspector with the Royal Bahamas Police Force and Officer in Charge of the Governor’s Harbour Police Station, Mr. Julian C. Newbold, who during his off-time is a member of Global Outreach Ministries based in James’ Cistern with Pastors Orlando and Clarice Thompson - was officially ordained as an Assistant Pastor in the ministry in May. Assistant Pastor Newbold’s service of ordination took place on Sunday, May 5th, 2019 at Global Outreach Ministries, where he and his wife Bianchora L. Newbold have been long serving members, since joining

the church in 2008. Along with supporting members of the public, church members, family and friends, other pastors and clergy from all over the island were in attendance to share in the special service with the Newbold’s and Pastors Thompson. Guest speaker, was Raymond Wells from Living Waters Kingdom Ministries in New Providence, whose message drew from the Beatitudes in Matthew - teachings directed at Jesus’ disciples, who would go on to teach and lead His church.

In an interview following his ordination, Newbold, spoke frankly about his time with the church and his new role. Talking about

he and his wife’s initial decision to become a part of the congregation at Global Outreach in 2008, Mr. Newbold shared, “What attracted me was the worship experience, and then knowing Pastors Orlando and Clarice for some time, and how they genuinely care about people and have a heart for doing the things of God and trying to fulfill God’s mandate to reach souls for the kingdom.

That is what attracted both my wife and I to the ministry. So, we joined, and have been there ever since.”

Reflecting back, Mr. Newbold, said that when they first attended Global, they didn’t go with any pre-conceived idea that they

would be involved in ministry. However, he knew since he was a young person that there was a call on his life to do ministry.

“What that call entailed was not something that I was aware of. I just knew that was something I would be involved in. So, as we were working around the ministry, just doing things like cleaning the church on Sundays and assisting where ever we could, I was just given more responsibility as we went along, and over the years I think I was being prepared for this time.”

Asked about goals and aspirations

Continued On Page 33

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May/June, 2019

Top Eleuthera Primary Students Recognized at the 23rd Annual Bahamas Primary School Student of The Year Awards

BY The eleutheran news team

Ten bright student nominees from primary schools throughout the Eleuthera District, participated in the 23rd Annual Primary School Student of the Year Awards ceremony held in New Providence on Saturday, May 18th, 2019, which saw 123 primary school students from all over the Bahamas vying for the top position of Primary School Student of the Year as well as individual scholarship awards. Already winners, chosen as the top all around student in both academics and extracurricular activities in their schools on the island, each of the ten students who participated represented the best and brightest sixth graders within The Eleutheras.

All of the ten Eleuthera primary school nominees received scholarship awards, including; • Angelina McKenzie (NINTH RUNNER UP, Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School, $2,500.00); • Gianni Meadows (Finalist, Tarpum Bay Primary, $1,500.00); • Jade Ferguson (Semi-Finalist, Emma E. Cooper Primary, $1,000.00); • Andrielle Gardiner (Semi-Finalist, Governor’s Harbour Primary, $1,000.00); • Aaron Smith (Semi-Finalist, Harbour Island All Age, $1,000.00); • Jamara Armbrister (Semi-Finalist, Gregory Town Primary, $1,000.00); • Jayda Burrows (Semi-Finalist, Deep Creek Primary, $1,000.00); • Christen Horton (Semi-Finalist, Wemyss Bight Primary, $1,000.00);

• •

Neikeeleah Johnson (SemiFinalist, P.A. Gibson Primary, $1,000.00); and Kaynia Minnis (Semi-Finalist, Laura L. Anderson Primary,

$1,000.00).

Students during the weekend event were supported by proud family members, friends and teachers.

Lauren Scriven, a twelve-year old stu-

dent at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Primary School in Abaco, was announced as the overall winner of the Primary School Student of the Year 2019.

Picture this - Teachers and Staff of the Emily G. Petty Primary

School out in honour of Retiring Teacher Mrs. Cassandra Thompson In the photo: Principal Tanya McPhee Pinder (5th from left) flanked on both sides by the splendidly attired ladies who are all members of the staff and teachers at the newly

renamed Emily G. Petty Primary School in Governor’s Harbour. The ladies were out in honour of their fellow educator, Mrs. Cassandra W. Thompson, at a banquet held on the occasion of her retirement from the classroom after 47 years of service.

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EBO 2019 ‘HIGHLIGHTS’ Continued from Page. 4 millionaires, right here in Eleuthera and throughout this country, and I believe we can do that. The resort presented earlier [The Other Side] is a blueprint for what can happen throughout this country - organic, natural, native, creative, innovative, and it’s ours.

Everything there is Bahamian. We can do this. Believe in yourselves, support one another, network with one another, and you can achieve great things.”

Turnquest also announced upcoming changes in policy as it relates to exported services and goods, saying that sales derived from those activities would no longer be required to be included in reporting for purposes of business license fees or value added tax, saying this move was set to incentivize an increase in export activity in the country. In his introduction of the DPM before his speech, Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, Hank Johnson, highlighted some of the developments in his constituency for the information of the audience, including; reopened negotiations with Cocodimama, Governor’s Harbour; the near completion of an eight (8) cottage development on the old Potlatch property along Banks Road; recent approvals given to a new development on Windermere Island; a 32 bedroom prefab boutique development plan in Bannerman Town; and the Disney development at Lighthouse Point.

WSC Chairman, Adrian Gibson, announced a number of measures currently being taken and planned for water facilities in North Eleuthera, to improve the quality of water supplied to the area.

Some of the activities mentioned, included; ongoing work at the new RO plant in North Eleuthera, which Chairman Gibson said he would be updating the people of Spanish Wells, Harbour Island and North Eleuthera about during the weeks leading into summer. He also spoke of refurbishment of the Lower Bogue Well Fields to the tune of $90,000 upgrading wells, pumps, and electrical installations to heighten the quality of water provided to complement the new RO plant coming on stream. Also, the corporation , he said, plans to refurbish the North Eleuthera water tanks, with works scheduled during summer 2019 at a cost of $50,000, to improve water quality and reduce the incidence of “red, rusty, brown” water in the communities. Ten purging systems, he added, have also been purchased for the island, to combat the same issue.

Talks for a new WSC commercial office in Governor’s Harbour is also now taking place, said Gibson, as well as improvement of water storage facilities in the area. Other pending projects men-

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Audience Enjoys a Light Moment: Full house at Frigates Restaurant in Rock Sound, during the 2019 Eleuthera Business Outlook, held on Friday, May 17th, 2019.

tioned was for additional storage at the Naval Base plant, as well as replacement of water mains in Russell Island, and along the Banks Road in Governor’s Harbour. Further improvements are also planned for Tarpum Bay and Rock Sound as well, he said.

Throwing out some WSC revenue numbers for Eleuthera, Mr. Gibson, shared that collections had increased by 19% in 2018, representing $2.6 million in increased revenue, and he pointed to developments like Disney, Jack’s Bay, and others as significant contributors to expected further growth.

SBDC Executive Director, Davinia Blair, informed the audience that 98% of the businesses within the Bahamas fall into the description of a small (turnover of $1 million to $5 million), medium (turnover of $100,000 to $1 million) or micro (turnover under $100,000) business, which the SBDC exists to serve and assist. However, she highlighted that those 98% of businesses in the country to-date only represent 23% of all turnover in the country.

This figure she explained was one of the worst compared to a number of other Caribbean countries which averaged between 40% to 60% country turnover belonging to small, medium and micro businesses (MSME’s). The goal of the SBDC in the Bahamas is to increase the current 23% to at least 50%, said Blair.

Eleuthera’s numbers, she pointed out, were currently a little different from the rest of the country, interestingly enough, with MSME’s representing 99% of the businesses on the island, and also representing 85% of the island’s turnover - quite different from the national 23% average. Long term revenue growth for MSME businesses in Eleuthera over the years have also shown steady growth, said Director Blair, with larger companies on the island showing a slightly less rosy picture, with more spikes and dips over the years. Again, opposite to the picture seen for businesses nationally, where growth, she said, has been steadier for large companies, with smaller companies showing more of a struggle. “Eleuthera is doing something right, because you have a completely different narrative in your numbers.”

The SBDC, said Director Blair, has a role to play in Eleuthera, to ready businesses as well as develop entrepreneurs/new startups to take advantage of opportunities to come, with new developments taking place on the island. She mentioned the Disney investment, saying that businesses have a three year window to ready themselves before that is set to come on stream. Another statistic she said the SBDC would be working to change was associated with the tourism industry, where for every dollar spent, $0.86 cents leaves the country. Ideally, she said, they would want to increase the amount stay-

ing in the country to at least $0.50 cents. One way to do that, she stated, was to plug up some of the leakages by supporting local businesses that could offer more of the goods, servic-

es, and talent needed in the industry, rather than those things having to be imported or procured internationally.

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May/June, 2019

RELATIONSHIPS: Is Your Marriage As Stale As Old Bread?

By Teri M. Bethel

Have you ever pulled a slice of stale bread from the bag and just could not bring yourself to eat it? That once delicious baker’s delight which used to tantalise your taste buds is no longer appealing. In fact, you were so bored with it, you left it on the counter to dry up.

That’s how some marriages are— untouched, dry and unappealing; just left to the side. Your marriage doesn’t have to be like that. Like old bread, your relationship becomes stale when it’s taken for granted. As a former director of a local marriage ministry (along with my husband), it was not unusual to hear some wives complain of their boredom in marriage. Being overlooked drove a wedge between them and their husbands.

Men were also claiming boredom with their relationships. Those with young families often complained that their wives did not give them the attention they had become accustomed to

before having children. Their relationship had become more about kids and careers than about themselves. As time passed, they continued to drift in separate directions.

So How Do You Bridge That Gap? One of the main areas of concern for most couples was the lack of healthy communication. Women wanted to talk; to share their day with their husbands. Men wanted quiet; by the time they came home from work, their total allotment of words for the day was used up. The only thing left in their bag of vocabulary were grunts and other unidentifiable sounds. For them to rehash their day was about as thrilling as sitting in a dentist’s chair for a tooth extraction.

Hearing about her day before unwinding was even more painful.

Are You Ready To Take Your Relationship to a Higher Level?

As a married couple, balance is vital. While each needs private time, it is just as essential to have a ‘together time’. Not just for a sexual encounter but for building intimacy with each other. Contrary to popular opinion, in-

timacy begins with conversations along with random acts of kindness, not a roll in the sack.

The good news about rebuilding your relationship is that you don’t have to do everything at once or expect an overnight turnaround to habits that took years to develop.

Simple Steps to Making Big Improvements Punishing your spouse by being unkind will not bring satisfaction in marriage. Instead, try the steps below: • Explore what the purpose of marriage is—the creator of a thing knows the purpose for which it was created.

• Discover how effective marriages thrive—so many people spend years studying for their careers but won’t invest the time or resources needed to build a happy marriage.

• Treat your spouse with love and respect—adjust your attitude to one that honours your mate.

• Take time to develop your friendship—get to know your spouse all over again.

• Prioritise your relationships— some friendships could be destroying your marriage.

Just The Two Of You Despite your busyness, it is essential to stop the running at least once a week to reset and reconnect with your spouse by spending quality time together. Choosing to bypass a routine activity to spend time with your spouse shows how much you care for them.

The first thing many couples say is they don’t have the funds to do anything together. Finances are an issue, so they stay home. Some of the poorest people in the world have the richest relationships. Their focus is on people and not things.

So, how about taking a scenic walk in the cool of the evening, or sitting together on the back porch to watch the sun go down. Do something that you can connect with; practice eye contact as well as open displays of affection such as holding hands. Speak positively to each other, avoid negative remarks and criticisms. Share your heart, tell a joke, get a good belly laugh; cultivate your friendship again without your cell phone in hand.

Rebuilding your relationship doesn’t take much. Make an effort to rid yourself of a dry marriage once and for all.

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‘through JUNE 2019

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL...

highlights in JUNE 2019

20th Annual Artie JohnPineapple Festival - Gregory Town son All Eleuthera - Youth Summer Tennis Camp “The Sweetest Festival!”

JUNE 6TH - JUNE 9TH

Entertainers:

- Rahming Brothers (Gospel Night) - Stevie S. - Fanshawn - Veronica Bishop - Julien Believe - D Mac - Rake and Scrape - Team Blue Waters Band - Puzzle

Admission:

THURSDAY & SUNDAY Adults:$5 Children: $2 FRIDAY & SATURDAY Adults:$10 Children: $2

Gate Opens:

Thursday, Friday & Saturday - 12 Noon Sunday - 2.00 pm ---

Bahamas National High School Diploma Graduation Ceremony Eleuthera - June 14th - 10am - Worker’s House --The 2019 Atlantic hurricane season officially began on June 1, 2019, and will end on November 30, 2019.

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In Conjunction with “Tennis For Hunger”.

Venue: Knowles Tennis Courts. Palmetto Point, Central Eleuthera. Monday 15th July - Friday 27th July, 2019 ---

Royal Bahamas Defence Force Rangers - Installation Ceremony to take place on

the grounds of the North Eleuthera High School campus on Saturday, June 22 at 11am.

--June 5th-10th - Deep

Creek Conch Fest Homecoming 2019 Conch Cracking Contest,

Pineapple Eating & Watermelon Eating Constest, Judging of the Best Conch & Pineapple Dish, Cultural Fashion Show & More! ALSO: Celebrate the retire-

ment of Ms. Willamae Sweeting.

Performances by: STILEET & MDEEZ. ---

FREE - Quilting Classes (WEEKLY) Pineapple Quilters Thursdays from 10am to 1pm For more information, Contact Stirlene Morley Tel: 334-4287/470-3694!

Holidays and Observance Days: Friday, June 7th - Labour Day Monday, June 10th - Whit Monday Sunday, June 16 - Father’s Day

School EVENTS Q2-2019: District Exams - June 11-13 School Closes (Students) - June 14 National Report Card Day - June 20 School Closes (Teachers) - June 21 New Student Orientation - Aug. 30 School Reopens after Summer break - Sept. 2 Entrepreneurship STARTUP Classes..

Lower Bogue, North Eleuthera: North Eleuthera residents we are back! Entrepreneurship Start Up Classes will be held at North Eleuthera High School, Lower Bogue, starting July 22nd from 6pm - 8pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Sign up to register and get your small business started at www.accessaccelerator.org.

St. Patrick’s Parish Hall, in Central Eleuthera Presents: Lead in Conduct, God’s Way - Vacation Bible School.

12- 15 Year Old’s Only: June 17th - 21st 9am to 12:30pm 4 - 11 year old’s Only June 24th - 28th 9am to 12:30pm Registration: $10 (Lunch & Snack included) Contact: Camilla Adair - 470-8221 OR Father Eldon 332-2311

Entrepreneurship STARTUP Classes..

Green Castle, South Eleuthera: Calling all residents of South Eleuthera! Free Entrepreneurship Start up Classes will be held in Green Castle at Green Primary School, every Monday, Wednesday and Friday June 24th to July 5th from 6pm to 8pm. Sign up now at www.accessaccelerator.org.

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Tour De Lootra Continues to Grow

-2019 SEES INCREASES IN NUMBERS OF PEOPLE AND ORIGINSBY The eleutheran news team

On Saturday, May 4th, a group of 50 riders left Cape Eleuthera during the early morning hours to cycle the 100 mile trek to Gene’s Bay in the 5th Annual ‘Tour De Lootra’ event, started by local Spanish Wellsian, Chad Albury, who has competed internationally with the Bahamas National Cycling team for many years.

This year’s Tour saw not only an increase in the number of riders, going up from more than 40 in 2018 to 50 riders in 2019, but also the number of different countries taking part grew. Bill Albury, Chad’s dad, remarked during his group C’s midway break in Governor’s Harbour, that riders from Canada, Panama, and France, in addition to riders from local cycling clubs out of Freeport, Nassau, and Spanish Wells were represented, and he expressed

Cyclers: The 100 mile route took riders from Gene’s Bay to Cape Eleuthera during the Tour de Lootra, now in its 5th year, and still growing.

International cyclists joined cycling clubs from Freeport, Nassau and Spanish Wells on this year’s ride. Shown above: Riders pose for a shot during short break in Governor’s Harbour.

Above: Cyclists passing through James’ Cistern headed south to Cape Eleuthera.

Left: Taking a short rest stop in Governor’s Harbour at the midway point along the 100 mile route. Below: Tackling Eleuthera’s flat and hills - no easy feat.

his hope that even more countries would participate next year.

Traveling with the C group of riders, Bill explained that the A group, which led the cyclists from the front, were travelling at about 25 mph, with group B just behind at about 22 mph, followed by group C going at about 20 mph, and group D bringing up the rear.

In 2018, because of weather concerns, the event course which had prevailed during the first three years which took riders south from Gene’s Bay to Cape Eleuthera was

flipped, and riders instead, started out at Cape Eleuthera, heading ultimately for Gene’s Bay in the north. However, no such changes were needed this year, with bright blue skies, and an unforgiving sun adding Eleuthera’s typical warmth to the challenge of the rolling hills, giving cyclists a uniquely challenging and fulfilling ride from north to south.

The local charity benefitting from this year’s event is Pastor Frank Perry’s ‘Care Center’ in Spanish Wells.

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CON S ER VAT I ON CORN ER

May/June

lobster fisheries research

is making a ‘SPLASH’

By CEI

The newest research project at CEI has officially started with the deployment of a dozen lobster shelters. These devices are used throughout the Caribbean for lobster fisheries, where they are known as ‘condos’ or casitas. They are not traps though; the lobsters are free to come and go, but choose to take refuge when there isn’t enough reef habitat available. These structures are simple; they lay among seagrass beds, where lobsters frequently search for food. Instead of returning to a reef after looking for a meal, the idea is that the lobsters will seek shelter in these condos.

The Spiny Lobsters and Artificial Shelters (SPLASH) project will look at the ways that artificial lobster habitats interact with the wider marine ecosystem. The use of artificial shelters in lobster fisheries is controversial: they are banned in the USA but encouraged in other Caribbean countries. More information is needed about how these shelters affect lobster populations and those of other marine

animals and other parts of the ecosystem.

That is what we are trying to do with the SPLASH project.

The project’s lead researcher, Dr. Nick Higgs, previously provided an assessment of the ecosystem impacts of the spiny lobster fishery when it was undergoing certification by the Marine Stewardship Council. The fishery was successful in receiving certification as a sustainable fishery, but further questions around the ecosystem impacts must be answered to maintain this important certification. To be considered as “sustainable,” a fishery must be harvested at a rate which does not cause the population to decrease over time as a direct result of fishing practices.

Dr Higgs is working with The Nature Conservancy to ensure that the lobster fishery research at CEI will help ensure a sustainable future for the Bahamian fisheries.

Man-made Lobster Habitat

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Fewer on the pavement, but more funds

raised at the 7th Annual “Catch Jerry Chile” Walk/Run

BY The eleutheran news team

Spirits were high on the road among the participants for the 7th Annual “Catch Jerry Chile” 5 mile fun run/walk this year which took place at dawn on Saturday morning, May 4th 2019.

Fewer walkers and runners hit the pavement this year in the inspirational fundraiser, headquartered beneath the Cork Tree in James’ Cistern. However, organisers were still buoyed as the event saw an increase in the funds raised compared to 2018, which they attributed to an increase in both donations from local businesses and sponsors, as

Under the tree: Participants and volunteers gathered under the Cork tree following the Fun Run/Walk on Saturday, May 4th, 2019.

3rd place (runner) - Demetrius Johnson.

3rd place (walker) - Albertina Sands.

1st place (walker) - Ross Bethel.

Miska Clarke “Jerry’s Chile” gets his head start.

well as registrants for the event. They also acknowledged that a number of other events occurred on the same date which may have affected the choice to sleep in by some of the would be early risers.

Mr. Miska Clarke (Jerry’s Chile), visionary and Chairman of the event, commenting on Saturday morning, said, “The show must go on.” There were three divisions of competition, with a primary group, an open walk, and an open run where participants started at the Cork Tree, and raced to the Governor’s Harbour Airport and back in a bid to stay healthy and possibly pick up one of the cash prizes up for grabs. Mr. Clarke, who challenges participants in the run category to catch him each year, had a very successful showing, coming in first place once again in the open run, which meant the first place cash prize would be

Primary runners won fun electronics prizes.

2nd place (walker) - Dwight Pinder.

kept by the Catch Jerry Chile committee, to add to other funds raised to go towards this year’s community help initiative.

In the Open Run category, winners included Miska Clarke/ Jerry’s Chile (1st - cash prize kept for community initiatives); Christopher Johnson (2nd - cash prize kept for community initiatives); and Demetrius Johnson (3rd - $100). The Open Walk category saw Ross Bethel in 1st - $200; Dwight Pinder in 2nd $100; and Albertina Sands in 3rd - $75. Electronics prizes were awarded in the primary division.

In past years, each “Catch Jerry Chile” event has had a specific goal to fulfill within the community, and this year was no different, with the proceeds earmarked for upgrades at the Governor’s Harbour Clinic, in partnership with the local government town council. After “Catch Jerry Chile” announced this new partnership and goal earlier in 2019, the central government made it known during April 2019 their intention to carry out extensive renovations at the public medical facility. This welcome development changed the focus of the partnership to assisting

2nd place (runner) - Christopher Johnson.

with any additional needs once renovations are completed.

Demetrius Johnson, Chairman of the Governor’s Harbour local government town council, commenting on the new relationship, said, “For many years, we’ve supported and have been impressed by the ‘Catch Jerry Chile’ organization. The proceeds from this fun/run/walk has always been pushed into community efforts and you’ve been able to see the work that they have done with the funding. So, when Mr. Clarke approached me about partnering with the Governor’s Harbour local government town council, I didn’t think it was a good idea to turn down help, and working in local government, there is always an issue about funding.

“If we can partner to provide a better service and a better facility for the residents of our community, and in the capital - I was on board. So, we’ve had walk throughs of the building, and since then, the staff has been relocated to Palmetto Point. The Continued On Page 29

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“Catch Jerry Chile”

Continued from Page. 28

government has come on board to the promised tune of some $500,000 to go into the Clinic renovation project.

So, we will continue to work along with both the central government and the ‘Catch Jerry Chile’ organization, and try to stretch the funding as far as it can go, but this has been a long time coming.

“We definitely need a proper standard of care, and health care facilities on the island. With the new private clinic [Eleuthera Medical Center] having come on stream, in Palmetto Point, I think it gives the whole island a better idea of what it ought to be like. We are hoping that we can be at that level or beyond, on the public side, because we deserve it, and that’s the bottom line.”

During the past six events, the Catch Jerry Chile committee has successfully delivered medical equipment, including a portable defibrillator in 2014. All proceeds benefited the Cancer Society of Eleuthera in 2013. In 2015 a portable jaws of life was gifted to the Royal Bahamas Police Force in Eleuthera, headquartered in Governor’s Harbour. 2016 saw pitching machines procured for

Above: Jerry’s Chile, Miska Clarke at the finish line, thankful for the support given to help his organization with its community building initiatives. Also shown are some of the participants who joined in on the Fun Run/Walk

the Central Eleuthera community. In 2017 a series of healthy initiatives seminars were hosted, along with repairs done to the Hatchet Bay Clinic and in 2018 funds were used to assist Cancer patients on the island.

Along with a sizeable number of volunteers who help make the event happen each year, the core Catch Jerry Chile organization includes; Miska Clarke, Chairman; Nurse Bernadette Colebrook, Co-Chairman; Warren Johnson, Outreach and PR; Alva Rolle, Treasurer; Romeo Rolle, Community Projects; and Angelo Bethel, Community Projects.

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School Renaming ‘EGP Primary School’ Continued from Page. 10

(L-R): Vernita Bethel, Rosa Johnson, Emily Petty, Rev. Carla Culmer, Howard Johnson.

Above (L-R): MP Hank Johnson, DS Myrtle McPhee, Howard Johnson (son), Honouree Emily Petty, Rosa Johnson (daughter), PM Hubert Minnis, Education Minister Jeffery Lloyd, Principal Tanya McPhee Pinder.

The renaming ceremony, was complemented by students who performed a new school song, and delivered an impressive choral speech, as well as a number of tributes and presentations made by family members, colleagues and community leaders to the school’s new patroness, Ms. Emily G. Petty.

Mrs. Vernita Bethel, a colleague within the Bahamas Conference of the Methodist Church - in her introduction of Ms. Petty - came up with choice words, describing the honouree, using the letters of her name. Mrs. Bethel began with E-for energetic, quipping that Ms. Petty always moved quickly, with an erect bearing of excellence; M was for meek, highlighting her humble yet strong character; I was for industrious, describing her continuous push to accomplish; L was for lovely, commenting on both her spirit, as well as her outward presentation; and finally, Y was for youthful, smiled Mrs. Bethel, saying she would vouch for Ms. Petty running a marathon as others tried to catch up.

In her response, Ms. Petty expressed her gratitude for such recognition, saying, “I am eternally grateful for this prestigious honour bestowed upon me today by the government, and by the people of Eleuthera and the Bahamas. It will be forever etched into the annals of my memory, forever!”

She also asked community members, family and friends to bear her up in prayer, saying that she wasn’t going anywhere yet, as she still had more work to do for the Lord, and for the school, and the Eleuthera community.

Born in Governor’s Harbour on November 10th, 1951, Ms. Emily Georgenia Petty, received her early education at the school being renamed in her honour - then called the Governor’s Harbour All Age School, before attending Queen’s College in New Providence on an academic scholarship. Not only was she accomplished academically, Ms. Petty while at Queen’s College also earned a reputation as one of the fastest female sprinters and best field athletes in the country, specializing in the 100m and 200m, as well as the long jump.

Following high school, Ms. Petty returned to Governor’s Harbour, where she began her career in teaching, before formalizing her training at the Bahamas Teachers College, and went on to serve for more than 46 years in education at various schools in Eleuthera - as a teacher, senior mistress, and principal - until her retirement from Governor’s Harbour Primary in 2016. In 1999, while teaching, Ms. Petty joined the Royal Bahamas Police Force Reserves, and in 2015 was promoted to her current rank of Inspector.

Having given her life to the Lord at a young age, Ms. Petty was actively involved in ministry at Ebenezer Baptist Church, and subsequently joined the Wesley Methodist Church, where she remains an active member today. As a community leader, Ms. Petty has also served as secretary for the All Eleuthera Junkanoo Committee, group leader for the local Red Cross Chapter, as an after-school tutor to students preparing for national exams, president of the Governor’s Harbour Development Association, and numerous other civic positions, geared toward the further development of her community.

Above: Prime Minister Hubert Minnis shown seated next to Honouree, Ms. Emily Petty, flanked by Education Minister Jeffery Lloyd, along with MP Hank Johnson and his wife, Mrs. Johnson.

Proud Community: Scores of community members, friends and family were in attendance to help celebrate the prestigious honour bestowed on Ms. Emily Petty of having the Governor’s Harbour Primary School renamed as the Emily Georgenia Petty Primary School.

Family Tribute: Members of the Petty family of Governor’s Harbour performed an original song in tribute, serenading and celebrating Ms. Emily Petty during the renaming ceremony. The special piece was written and arranged by Ms. Brendalee Petty.

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Emily G. Petty Primary school students performing during the official renaming ceremony on Friday, May 3rd, 2019.

Students of the new Emily G. Petty Primary school raising their voices in song for the Honouree.

Unveiling of the plaque commemorating the renaming of the school to Emily G. Petty Primary.

Ms. Petty stands with long time colleague, Shantell Sands.

Honouree, Ms. Emily Petty (center) presented with a portrait, commemorating the renaming event.

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Spanish Wells Child dies after Swing Incident Six year old Bella Morgan was a student of SGP All Age School

Police in Spanish Wells reported receiving information about an accidental death of a six-year-old girl on Friday morning, May 17th, 2019. Six-year-old Bella Morgan was said to have fallen from a home-made galvanized swing, which had then fallen on her.

At the scene of the incident, which was at the home of Bella’s grandfather,

according to reports, officers spoke with the gardener, Mr. Saindly Bernadin, who had witnessed the incident. He stated that while the child was swinging, the swing collapsed, falling across her. Mr. Merton Morgan, who was at the residence at the time, was said to have rushed outside on hearing a scream and met the gardener assisting by moving the swing from atop the child. She appeared lifeless and was rushed to the clinic. Dr. Farrington rendered resuscitation efforts, however, with negative results.

Peers, teachers and administration at the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School, where young Bella was a grade one student, in response to the very sad loss, paid tribute to her life, with a memorial of ‘Bears for Bella’ and also hosted a special service in her memory on Monday, May 27th, 2019. Before the memorial service a special Moringa tree was planted by

‘Bears for Bella’ memorial at the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School.

her teachers and peers at the front of the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School in honour of her young life.

One week earlier, on the Monday following the tragic incident, a grief seminar was facilitated by the school on campus, where the students were counseled by area pastors, teachers, guidance

counsellor, education officials as well as medical personnel.

Little Bella was laid to rest on Friday, May 24th, 2019, and her funeral service was held at the Spanish Wells Gospel Chapel.

Dear Editor, Good day,

Above: Peers, teachers and administration at the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School hosted a special service in Bella’s memory on Monday, May 27th, 2019. Before the memorial service a special Moringa tree was planted by her teachers and peers at the front of the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School in honour of her young life.

I would like to share the selflessness and good work that my twin girls aredoing. At just ten years old, Arianna and Brianna saw a need at their school and decided to start a lunch program. Kids4Kids was born in January of thisyear 2019 where they have been assisting the underprivileged at Samuel Guy Pinder All age in Spanish Wells, Eleuthera, Bahamas.

After the girls expressed the importance of starting their program we then spoke to their principal. Mrs. C. Gibson assisted by identifying how many kids needed lunch and how no such program currently exists at the school. Twice a week (Wednesday and Friday) and without any funding, the girls plan menus, prep, cook and distribute lunch to children who would normally go without.

Hands for Hunger states that “Hunger is a silent struggle for many; one in every ten people in the Bahamas live below the poverty line and experience severe food insecurity. Normally living on only $4 a day.” This is evident in every island, in some way here in the Bahamas. If we all can be our brother’s keeper we can make the Bahamas a better place.

Arianna is currently holding the title of Royal International Miss Sweetheart 2018/2019. Brianna holds the title of Pre-Teen Galaxy Bahamas 2019. Leadership has inspired purpose and both Arianna and Brianna have taken on the mantra “Beauty with Purpose”.

Sincerely, Hopia McIntosh

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Asst. Pastor Newbold Continued from Page. 19

Handoff: Collared and Robed, Asst. Pastor Newbold accepts a Bible from the officiating Pastors

Singing: Global Outreach Ministries Chorale.

Pastors: Lifting new Asst. Pastor Newbold up in prayer.

in his church life, Newbold revealed that holding an office wasn’t something that he had asked for, or even really had the desire to do, saying, “I never asked them to do anything actually. Just whenever they asked me to carry out an assignment that’s what I did, to the best of my ability.”

He found though, that over the years, certain activities had served to get him ready, “One of the things that helped to prepare me was my time at the Eleuthera Bible Training Center, where I did courses to help in church administration and Bible study methods. So, over the years I’ve had to pull on all that training, as well as training sponsored by Pastors Thompson at Global Outreach, where we have had seminars and conferences, with speakers who taught us about ministry and administration. So, all of those things have helped to prepare me I think for this office now.”

Assistant Pastor Newbold has served over the years as the youth pastor, as a member of the praise team and chorale, an administrative leader for pastoral ministry and finance/building project team, a leader for care groups, and as a minister of the Word. About his new role, he explained that he would still maintain the assignments that he currently has, including his work as youth pastor, and now to a greater extent help to undergird Pastors Thompson in ministry where they need his assistance.

In his humble nature, Assistant Pastor Newbold, shared that during his service within the church, he had spoken on more than one occasion, but easily admitted that it had been a scary thing at first. “One of the things that was really amazing was that I had never really been involved in any type of frontline ministry until I came to Global in Eleuthera, because, even though I knew I had a call on my life, that was something that I ran away from. I didn’t want to do it,” Newbold smiled, “but I would like to say that the responsibility given is an awesome one, given the level of ministry that Pastors Thompson offer.

“Sometimes, looking at it, it becomes almost intimidating. However, with God’s help, we are able to do it, and that’s what keeps us humble - knowing that really it is His assignment, and we are doing things by His grace.

Seated: Pastors of various churches out in support of Asst. Pastor Newbold.

Voices: Raised in song during the ordination ceremony for Assistant Pastor Julian Newbold at Global Outreach Ministries.

We are not able to do it on our own. In our own will, and in our own flesh, we are not able to achieve anything. So, I am just humbled that they [Pastors Thompson] have given me this opportunity to serve along with them. One of the things I re-

ally like about them, is the fact that they are really servants.

They have never demonstrated any kind of haughtiness, or any other kind of agenda, other than attempting to reach souls for the kingdom.”

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May/June, 2019

asm and focused dedication for her work despite the challenges of overseeing two locations, but expressed concern about the non-permanent status of her employment and the need to resolve that challenge for all public library staff.

In reference to regularization of public library staff, Director Bowler commented that she had been fighting for a long time to get the ball rolling to make them permanent and pensionable, and was continuing to push to have this corrected. In a brief interview following the meeting, she added that this was a priority of her office, and looked forward to seeing staff regularizations happen during the 2019/2020 fiscal year.

Sharing some of her goals for the next few years in the Library Service in Eleuthera, Director Bowler, commented, “I am very much hoping that we will be able to have more support staff, and be able to provide our library services more efficiently and effectively with the increased staffing. Also, I would like to see more training of staff members as well, including online training and courses to facilitate our library service.” When asked about her perspective on the current challenges on island overall and the future outlook for libraries in Eleuthera, she stated, “I feel confident, because the workers have a passion for libraries and they want to see users get the full benefit of the library facilities, so, I am feeling really great about this effort.”

librarians “director’s meeting” Continued from Page. 16 of the Haynes Library’ group appeared to have differing opinions on their respective roles, certain operations of the library, and on financial reporting requirements - with more transparency being called for on that aspect.

Director Bowler lauded the many initiatives and improvements done by the ‘Friends of the Haynes Library’ group over the years, including the provision of new computers, lecture events, and the extensive summer programs. However, she also encouraged greater communication between the group and the staff at the library, and confirmed that all financial activities done on behalf of the library, according to the Library and Information Services Act of 2009, were required to be reported to her office.

A number of other issues and suggestions were brought up by librarians and community members present during the meeting. Services like adult computer

classes, library based clubs and English as a Second Language classes for legal migrants were mentioned for consideration by the various libraries. Cross-training for librarians, online resource sharing, staffing shortages, as well as the need to stay in touch with each other to encourage new ideas and fresh input, were just a few of the suggestions and issues highlighted during discussions. Branhilda Sawyer, library supervisor with the Sir George Roberts library in Harbour Island, highlighted their desire to now extend the size of the library, having run out of space, and questioned the process of getting construction done, as funding was largely in place. Clara Williams, with the Wemyss Bight library, demonstrated her passion for the library and the community she served, sharing with the group gathered some of the programs and initiatives taken on there, and a few of her local solutions to challenges.

Katherine Bullard-Neely, library supervisor for both the Bluff and Lower Bogue libraries, also communicated her enthusi-

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We appreciate members of the community reaching out to us daily and invite you to contact us at 422-9350. We are Proud Supporters of: Community Initiatives, Business Community, Young Entrepreneurs, Builders, Bahamas Public Schools, Community Organizations..Eleuthera

Eleuthera has the most libraries compared to other islands within The Bahamas, according to Director Bowler, with the count at more than 14. New Providence trails that number with 11 public libraries throughout the capital.

See below a list of public libraries across Eleuthera, and current staff: •

Haynes Library, Governor’s Harbour Mrs. Althea Willie, Library Supervisor; Mrs. Tyika Moss, Senior Library Technical Assistant; Ms. Maryann Rolle, Custodian • Tarpum Bay Library Ms. Jonna Riley, Library Supervisor; Ms. Davaughn Cartwright, Library Assistant Sir George Roberts Library, Harbour Island Branhilda Sawyer, Library Supervisor; Scieska Knowles, Library Assistant; Mr. Valentino Hudson, Head Technician (not present at the meeting) •

• Weymss Bight Library Mrs. Clara Williams, Library Supervisor/Co-ordinator; Deborah Green, Support Staff • Hatchet Bay Library Mrs. Levada Ingraham, Library Supervisor (not present at the meeting)

• Palmetto Point Library Ms. Araminta Collins, Library Supervisor; Mrs. Rosie ThompsonCoordinator (not present at the meeting) • The Bluff Library Mrs. Katherine Bullard- Neely, Library Supervisor • Lower Bogue Library Mrs. Katherine Bullard- Neely, Library Supervisor • Gregory Town Library Ms. Shanta Maurice, Library Supervisor • James Cistern Library Ms. Andrea Bethel, Library Assistant • Current Library Mrs. Susan Martin, Library Supervisor Library facilities of varying size and availability are also located in: • Black Wood • Hatchet Bay • Savannah Sound • Rock Sound • Spanish Wells • Deep Creek • Bannerman Town

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opinio n

Make Sense

By: Andrew L. Burrows andrewburrows1@gmail.com There are many things that we have to endure and tolerate because we fail to acknowledge that we the citizens are the true owners of all things Government. We have a very high tolerance level because of our slavery/colonial

heritage and we have not yet come to the stark realization that this country is our own, and there is no other place we can call home!

Recently we experienced the apparent seasonal slowdown at the country’s major gateway to the world; Nassau’s one and only Airport. The LPIA has remained the same size, with the same landingstrip layout for the last sixty plus years, while the traffic in and out has steadily increased. Now that major hotels like Atlantis on Paradise Island, and Baha Mar out west are attracting many more visitors to Nassau, the need for airline handling has become a national emergency. While all were preaching ‘global warming’ and ‘climate change’ the reality was being overlooked.

Here on Eleuthera there are also a number of issues that seem to go unnoticed. The government led by former Prime Minister Ingraham can be credited with making substantial improvements to this country’s infrastructure, but government is continuous, and many improvements still need to be taken to the next level. The boat landing at Gene’s Bay was well restored recently, but the improvements continue to be marred by lack of parking space, a very necessary element!

There are a high number of permanent private parking garages that demand to not be blocked, and there are spots reserved on the marine landing for selected gov-

Gov’t says Proposed Tax Measures will Provide Reprieve to Citizens

By Llonella Gilbert NASSAU, Bahamas -- The Government has proposed a number of tax relief measures to provide some reprieve to all citizens and to encourage economic activity by making the import of certain items relatively cheaper, thereby comparatively easier for persons to enter existing markets and, in some cases, create new ones.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. K. Peter Turnquest listed the tax relief measures during the Budget Communication 2019/20, in the House of Assembly, Wednesday, May 29, 2019.

DPM Turnquest explained that there will duty reductions worth $28 million in revenue. “In an effort to rebalance the tax burden between the provision of goods and services and reduce the attendant distortionary impacts, we are beginning to make good on our commitment to reduce duty and excise rates over the next three years.“To that end, we will, at this time, adjust the duty on selected frequently imported items. Generally, the focus of these reductions is around educational supplies and equipment, and household implements and goods. These items include: • • • • •

Home Refrigerators of 18 cubic feet or smaller (to become duty free) Home Stoves that are 30 inches wide or smaller (to become duty free) Garbage Can Liners (from 45 per cent to 25 per cent) Fire Extinguishers (from 45 per cent to free) Flashlights (from 45 per cent to 25

per cent) Pens (from 10 per cent to free) Pencils (from 10 per cent to free) Crayons (from 10 per cent to free) Sharpeners (from 45 per cent to free) • School Rulers (from 10 per cent to free) • Chart Paper (from 20 per cent to free) • Projectors (from 45 per cent to 35 per cent) • Projector Screens (from 45 per cent to 35 per cent) • Radios (from 45 per cent to 35 per cent) • Pots/Pans (from 45 per cent to 25 per cent) • And all Household Furniture (from 45 per cent to 25 per cent) The Government has also reduced the duty from musical instruments; allowed trailers for commercial fishing boats to be eligible for duty exemption and amended the Spirits and Beer Manufacture Act to reduce the minimum bushel requirement for production, to now make microbreweries eligible for import duty concessions.

The DPM explained, “You would recall that the government earlier in the fiscal year increased the VAT zero-rating on Light Bills from those under $200 to those under $300.

It was approved as a temporary measure that was to expire at the end of June.

He added, “I am • • • •

Continued On Page 39

ernment personnel. The rest of us have to scrap an opening where ever possible.

This is a public insult and a disgrace; but we tolerate it! Quietly.

The Three Island Dock was also upgraded in recent times, but it too has some major faults that do not need to be! The interior section is being used exclusively

by Ferry Boats for arrivals and departures, and is constantly in use, while the exterior is reserved for ‘who knows who’!

Ferry Boats arriving from Harbour Island should use the interior dock, while the departing Ferries should have use of the exterior location. And then there is that ‘Fence’! People! All Government properties belong to us! Stop pretending to improve ‘PUBLIC’ facilities at our expense and then try to keep the very people who own the facility from having optimal use of it! There is also the thinking that only Taxi vehicles can occupy the dock while awaiting arrivals; who says so? There are no signs to indicate such a denial of privilege from the owners! We former slaves put up with a lot of stupid things, left in place by the masters and perpetuated by us.

The North Eleuthera Airport is slated for Upgrade and we longingly await sight of the plans; walking out of an Airport Terminal directly into highway traffic is scary, even with the speed bumps denting our mufflers. There is hope that the future will bring major improvements; remem-

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ber we will be the ones paying for it all.

It is obviously clear that Nassau does not know that the Out Islands/Family Islands exist! So, they cannot understand why there is need for three International Airports and International Docks plus other boat landings throughout the island of Eleuthera, at Spanish Wells and Harbour Island. Nassau only has one Cruise Ship terminal, one International Dock at Arawak Cay and a local dock at Potters Cay. Have you ever noticed that all the secondary roads throughout this island are closed to the public or abandoned and unused! When the weather is stormy and the sea is rough, salt spray will splash on your car at the Glass Window Bridge or in Governor’s Harbour. At the bridge there is no alternative but to wait for a delay in the wave action, but entering or exiting Governor’s Harbour there is no alternative, all alternative roads have been made unusable and thus not available to public users.

So, now that the Bay Front Park road has been repaired (at great expense) when are the many remaining streets going to be restored? It goes without saying; we tolerate a lot of nonsense while many important needs go unfulfilled. Governor’s Harbour is the central location of Governance on this island, yet, it is the most neglected township. It makes no sense!

Great job Brent, the Administration building is looking great! (long overdue).

BAHFSA - Urgent Meat Recall and Recommended Precautions Raw Beef Products On May 22, 2019, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) issued a recall for over 62K lbs. of raw beef due to potential E. coli 0157-H7 contamination after random sampling.

The meat was packaged at the Aurora Packing Company, Inc. in North Aurora, Illinois and has the establishment number, “EST. 788”, inside the USDA mark of inspection.

The recall includes over 40 products, mostly steak (ribeyes, ribs and brisket cuts).

A product list can be found at: h t t p s : / / w w w. f s i s . u s d a . g o v / w p s / wcm/connect/c639fdf0-d073-4822-8d70d668cd548359/057-2019-List-of-RecallProducts.pdf?MOD=AJPERES The recall labels can be found at: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/ wcm/connect/40e424cc-9732-490bacae-c793d4eb1c7b/057-2019-Labels. pdf?MOD=AJPERES The Ministry of Health Surveillance Unit have received no reports of illness associated with this recall and none have been confirmed by the USDA. Local retailers and wholesalers are asked to discard this product from their freezers if found and consumers, likewise.

The Bahamas Agricultural Health and Food Safety Authority (BAHFSA) urges consumers to be vigilant when preparing and consuming foods such as meat products. As summer fast approaches, extra precaution and attention should be given to: Wearing the proper protective wear such as disposable gloves, aprons and hair nets where practical; Utilizing running, potable water to thor-

oughly rinse fresh fruits and vegetables, including conch; Using ice to keep selected items cold (40o or below); Ensuring food is not kept out of the refrigerator for more than two hours after preparation; Washing hands under warm running water for 20 seconds whenever exposed to possible contamination; Using hand sanitizers, moist wipes or onetime use hand towels to keep hands clean, especially on picnics, regattas, cookouts, etc. where running water may not be available; Keeping raw foods separate from fresh, ready to eat foods to avoid cross contamination; include a food thermometer to ensure meats are cooked to the correct internal temperature at home and at outdoor events; fish – 145oC; beef, pork, lamb, veal (steaks, roasts and chops) - 145oC; ground meats (beef, pork, lamb, veal) - 160oC; whole, ground and poultry breast - 165oC ensuring sick, elderly or pregnant women, including children under 5yrs of age do not consume food that may be at risk; covering and storing foods at the right temperature; and contacting a health professional if they believe anyone may have consumed contaminated food and further, retain such food to be sampled by the health official.

Consumers who may have questions or concerns should contact BAHFSA at: bahfsa@bahamas.gov.bs.

PRESS RELEASE- The Bahamas Agricultural Health and Food Safety Authority (BAHFSA)

36 www. EleutheraNews . com

Crime News

May/June, 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 Road Check Report: On Tuesday 21st May 2019 between 4:30pm and 5:45pm Officers from the Governor’s Harbour Police Station conducted road checks in the areas of Haynes Lane and also in the area of District Headquarters Queens Highway Governor’s Harbour.

Arrest reference to Immigration Purpose - On Friday 24th May, 2019 sometime around 3:15pm Immigration Officers came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with six Haitian Nationals who were apprehended for breach of the Immigration act. They were later transported to the Detention Center in New Providence.

POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS DRUGS: At about 8:30pm on Friday 24th May 2019, Officers came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with an adult male and reported arresting and cautioning him in the area of Cupid’s Cay Governor’s Harbour in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. The suspect was charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs contrary to section 29(c) & 29(2) b of the Dangerous Drug Act Chapter 228 he was further cautioned but said nothing in reply BREACH OF BUSINESS LICENSE ACT: At about 9:24pm on Friday 24th May 2019, Officers warned the proprietor of a local Bar for Breach of the Business Licence Act namely playing Loud Music at his business establishment.

At about 9:50pm on Friday 24th May 2019, Officers warned the proprietor of a local Restaurant and Bar for Breach of the Business Licence Act namely playing Loud Music.

Road Accident Report At about 10:45pm on Friday 24th May, 2019 Officers discovered a traffic accident in the vicinity of Banana Beach Estate where a single vehicle overturned. Damage and injuries involved. Police assistance requested.

The traffic accident involved a single vehicle a blue 2010 Jeep Wrangler Sahara which was driven by an adult male . The driver sustained abrasions to his face and was seen at the scene

by Dr. Cho and was transported to the Palmetto Point Clinic via H.A.C.E ambulance services. He was issued with a hospital form, measurement were recorded and various points of interest. Investigations are ongoing.

POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS DRUGS: At about 1:15am on Saturday 25th May 2019, Officers came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with an adult male and reported that he was arrested and cautioned at about 12:40am in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. The Suspect was charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs contrary to section 29(c) & 29(2) b of the Dangerous Drug Act Chapter 228 he was further cautioned

but said nothing in reply House Breaking and Damage report -An adult male contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police station at about 9:30am on the 25.5.19 and reported that sometime between 5:30pm on the 24.5.19 and 9:12am on the 25.5.19 some unknown person(s) broke into a home belonging to his girlfriend. The culprit(s) upon entry damaged the bathroom sink valued at $300.00 and water line, causing water to damage (1) DVD player valued at $100.00 (2) window screens valued at $200.00 and three interiors doors valued at $1,600.00. Police action was requested.

Officers visited and processed the scene and are presently conducting enquiries into this matter.

House Breaking & Stealing An adult male Contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station and reported that sometime between a week ago at 5:00pm 25.5.19 some unknown person(s) broke into a house which he care takes and caused damage to the louver on a northern facing hurricane proof window in the living room and also to the security plate on the front entrance door. Police action requested.

Officers visited and processed the scene . Investigations are ongoing.

Threats of Death and Causing Damage - At about 7:00am on the 25/5/19 an adult female reported to Police that at about 6:30am on the 25/9/19 while near her place of employment her ex-boyfriend threatened to kill her putting her in fear of her life. She further reported that he attacked her punching her in the head and scuffled her up breaking her Identification login card. She request immediate police action in the matter.

Officers arrested the adult male suspect at about 8:50am on the 25/5/19 reference to threats of death and causing damage. He was processed and charged with that offence.

Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous drugs At about 8:00am on the 25/5/19 Police conducted a search on the person of an adult male reference to possession of dangerous drugs which resulted in the discovery of a clear plastic bag wrapper containing a greenish grassy substance suspected of being marijuana from his front right pants pocket. He was cautioned and arrested for the offence of possession of dangerous drugs. The suspect was processed and charged with one count of Possession of dangerous drugs contrary to section 29(6) and 29(2) b of the dangerous drugs act.

Traffic Offence Report: At about 8:40am on the 25/5/19 Officers reported an adult male for driving a white 1999 Nissan Sentra in a western direction on Main Street in Hatchet Bay while the said vehicle was unlicensed, uninspected and uninsured. He was informed of the offences and warned of prosecution.

Arrest reference to Disorderly Behavior - At about 4:42pm on the 22nd May, 2019 Officers arrested and cautioned four (4) adult females reference to Disorderly behavior a complaint made on the 21st May, 2019. All of the suspects were warned of prosecution reference to disorderly behavior contrary to section

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

206(1) of the penal code chapter 84. They were subsequently released from police custody.

Road Accident Report - On Saturday 4th May, 2019 at about 12:30am an adult male contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station and reported that he was in the area of Savannah Sound where there has been a single car traffic accident. He further stated that the vehicle was over turned in the middle of the road was driven by a man who appears to be alert and talking but shaken up. Police assistance requested. Police responded to the scene where they met a gray 2008 Nissan Cube over turned on its left side facing in a northern direction with significant damages to the front right and left side. It appeared that the driver was travelling north at the time when he lost control of the vehicle hitting a tree on the eastern side of the road before he over turned. The driver was not met on the scene. Information received was that the vehicle is owned by an adult male. The road was cleared and all was left in order. Investigations continues into this matter Assault W/Dangerous Instrument - On Friday May 24th, 2019, sometime around 5:20pm,an adult male came in at Rock Sound Police Station and reported that on the mentioned date sometime around 4:50pm, he was riding a black and orange and white bicycle when he observed a silver vehicle passing him heading in the opposite direction. He then continued on the bicycle when he heard a vehicle approaching him from the back and looked over his right shoulder and saw a silver vehicle coming towards him.

He recognized the driver of the vehicle who then hit him with his vehicle whereas he fell of his bike and onto the ground and received minor injuries. Further that while at his residence a short while later, he and his brother saw the vehicle drive pass with his bicycle in his silver vehicle.

Police action was requested.

Investigations continues into this matter.

CAUSING HARM - On Saturday May 25th, 2019, sometime around 1:46am, an adult male came into Rock Sound Police Station and reported that sometime around 12:50am while at work a male known to him, hit him in the throat and struck him on his left hand with a chair causing a laceration and swelling.

Police action was requested. Officers observed the complainant with a laceration on the left arm same also appeared swollen. A written statement was recorded from him and a police hospital form was issued to seek medical attention. Investigations continue into this matter.

Arrest: Possession of Dangerous Drugs - On Thursday 23rd May, 2019, sometime around 3:00pm. In keeping with the Commissioner of Police, Policing plan for 2019, priority #1 A team of Officers commenced operation “Mix Mingle” throughout the Eleuthera district.

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

The objective of this unit is to send a clear and present message of police presence and visibility throughout the various communities targeting known hot spots of criminal activity, also intelligence led search and seizure of dangerous drugs, firearms and stolen property. Thirty seven searches was conducted by means of foot patrol, mobile patrols, road check points and static posting of officers in common areas.

Sometime around 6:00pm on Thursday 23rd May, 2019, the mentioned crew in at Rock Sound Police Station with three adult male suspects reference to Possession of dangerous drugs. They were processed and charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs.

TRAFFIC OFFENSE REPORT On Monday, May 20th, 2019, sometime around 6:45pm, Officers cited the driver for driving while same was not licensed, inspected or insured, and for operating a vehicle while not in possession of a valid driver’s license. He was warned of prosecution.

Road Accident Report (R.A.R) At 2:20am on Sunday 19th May, 2019 an anonymous caller contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station via phone and reported that there is a two car collision on Queen’s Highway Gregory Town . Damage and injuries involved. Police assistance requested. Officers responded to the scene which involved a burgundy 2007 Honda Accord registered to an adult male and driven by an adult female of North Eleuthera and a grey Honda Civic driven by an adult male. Both vehicles received extensive front end damages. Measurements were recorded of points of interest. Both drivers were referred to the local Clinic for medical attention. Investigations are ongoing.

Stealing by Fraud - On Friday 17th May, 2019, sometime around 6:00pm an adult female came into the G.H.P.S. and reported that on Thursday 17th May, 2019 she paid a man whom she contacted via a social media website, of Nassau, New Providence $100.00 cash for a mechanical part through an account. He was instructed to send the mechanical part to Governor’s Harbour via Pineapple Air, which he never did. He is now refusing to answer her calls and messages. Police action requested.

This matter is under investigation.

Traffic Checks - Sometime between 8:30am and 9:30am on the 17/5/19 Officers from Hatchet Bay Police Station conducted traffic checks at the junction of Queen’s Highway and Main Street, Hatchet Bay. Motorists were reminded of proper road safety practices.

Threats of Harm - On Thursday 16th May 2019 at about 11:00am an adult female came to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station and reported that on Wednesday 15th May 2019 about 2:00pm they received information that a picture of their home was posted on social media via Facebook with a negative message by a family member . When they confronted her

Crime News about the post an argument ensued, this person while holding a knife threatened to “gut” both females like a fish putting them in fear of harm. Police action was requested.

Arrest Reference Threats of Harm - At about 4:00pm on the 17/5/19 an adult female came in at the Police Station and was cautioned and arrested reference to threats of Harm on the 15/5/19.

The suspect was processed and charged with one count of threats of harm contrary to section 203 of the penal code chapter 84.

Traffic Accident with injury At about 8:20pm on Thursday 16th May, 2019, an adult male came in at the G.H.P.S. and reported that there was a car accident involving two vehicles that had just occurred on Queens Highway, Governor’s Harbour Police assistance was requested. Officers responded to the scene where a beige/gold Honda CRV owned and driven by an adult female was observed with extensive front end Damages, and a blue 2000 Honda Accord owned by an adult female and driven by an adult male . Same had extensive front end damages. Officers took measurements of the accident scene and both persons were served with N.O.I.P. forms. The female driver was transported to the Palmetto Point Clinic for minor injuries. Both vehicles were driven away from the scene.

The scene was left quiet, all was in order.

Investigations are ongoing.

Stealing - On Thursday 16th May, 2019, around 4:35pm an adult male came into the G.H.P.S. and reported that between October 2018 and April 2019, some unknown person/s stole between to 20-30 light brown crab/fish traps, that he dropped in the waters on the western side of Eleuthera, between the Governor’s Harbour and South Palmetto Point settlements. He said he suspects a male known to him of stealing them. He also stated that on the afternoon of Wednesday 15th May, 2019, he saw several light brown traps, at the rear of the residence of the suspect in Tarpum Bay. Police action was requested.

Investigations are ongoing.

Harassing Phone Calls - At 10:20am on Tuesday 14th May, 2019 an adult female reported to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station that on Saturday 11/05/2019 and Monday 13/05/2019 she received harassing phone calls from a private number . A woman who has called her personal cellphone number on four occasions asking for her niece. On Monday she reported the harassing phone calls to BTC and later on that morning she received another call from the mentioned woman who mocked her about reporting the matter to BTC. She is requesting Police assistance in finding the identity of unknown woman.

Search Reference to Dangerous Drugs - On Monday 13th May 2019 Offices from the Governor’s Harbour Police Station while in the area of the Governor’s Harbour Station searched a Champagne Nissan Blue Bird and the occupants two adult males reference to Dangerous Drugs and Firearms with negative results.

Causing Harm - On Monday 13th May 2019 at 11:00am an adult male came to The Governor’s Harbour Police Station and reported that on Friday 10th May 2019 he was on Cupid’s Cay when a male known to him approached him and began beating him about the body hitting him in his face and head causing injury and pain.

Police Action requested. The victim reported that he was taken to the Palmetto Point Clinic via private vehicle and was seen by medical personnel and Police Officers who

issued him a Police Hospital Form. This matter is under active investigation.

R.A.R - On Sunday 15th May, 2019, sometime around 8:45pm, Medical Personnel c/o Wemyss Bight Clinic contacted the Rock Sound Police Station and reported that they received information reference to a vehicular accident that occurred a few moments earlier in the Green Castle area. They further stated that persons may have been injured. Police assistance requested. Officers responded to the Wemyss Bight Clinic reference to the mentioned accident. They saw and spoke to an adult female who identified herself as the driver of a Pearl 2009 Nissan Bluebird that was still parked in the bushes in the area of Queens Highway. The driver reported under caution that while traveling north on Queens Highway coming out of Waterford into Green Castle, she came to a sharp curve. While coming around the curve she was surprised by an oncoming vehicle that appeared to have veered in her left lane. As a result she swerved to avoid the vehicle and ran off the road into nearby bushes causing damages to the front end of the vehicle. She further stated that the vehicle belonged to an adult female who is known to her and that she would repair the vehicle.

She was further cautioned. The driver indicated that she and her cousin were in the vehicle. Both persons complained of pains about the body as a result of the accident. both were issued a Royal Bahamas Police Force Hospital form to be filled out by the physician. Measurements were recorded and N.O.I.P.s served on both drivers.

Unlawfully Carrying Arms - At about 10:30 pm on Saturday 11th May, 2019 Officers came in at the G.H.P.S. with an adult male and reported that he was arrested and cautioned at 10:25 pm while in the area of a business on, Cupid Cay, Governor’s, in reference to Unlawfully Carrying Arms.

Stealing Report- At 8:35am Friday May 10th 2019, an adult male contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station via telephone and reported that he received information from his Yard Man that some unknown person/s entered a building on his property and stole a number of Garden tools. Police action requested. Officers visited and processed the scene where Officers saw and spoke to the caretaker who Pointed out a Garden House located on the property away from the main house.

He reported that sometime between 2:00pm Monday 6th May 2019 and 7:00am Friday 10th May 2019 some unknown person/s entered the Garden House and stole (1) Large Tree Clipper (2) Small tree Clippers (2) Wasp and Hornet Sprays (1) Machete (1) bottle of Joy and (2) Irish Spring Soaps. This matter is under active investigation.

Stealing from a Vehicle & Damage - At about 5:43 p.m. on Wednesday 08th May, 2019 an adult female came to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station and reported that some time between 4:00 p.m. and 5:15 p.m. while on French Leave Beach some person/s unknown broke into her white 2000 Toyota Hiace Van by smashing the left side glass with a foreign object, and stole $370.00 Cash from her wallet and $560.00 Cash from her sister’s wallet, estimated cost of damage is unknown, Police Action requested.

Officers visited the scene which is at the entrance of the old club med where

they saw and spoke with a care taker who stated that sometime after 5:00 p.m. when he got off from his job and arrived at the said property where he also lives, he met broken glass on the ground in the road in front of his residence, but saw no vehicle or anyone. He also stated that he owns three dogs that he used to help guard the property. He said he had no other information to assist with this investigation, enquiries are ongoing.

Causing Harm Report: At about 12:02 PM on the 6th May, 2019 an adult male came in at Hatchet Bay police station and reported where sometime around 5:00pm on Saturday the 27th April, 2019 a male who he knows attacked him punching him to the right side of his face causing pain and swelling. He further reported where the male choked him in a head lock position and proceeded to strike him to the face and head with the use of a Guinness beer bottle causing him pain, swelling and to bleed. Immediate police action requested. A written statement was recorded from the complainant and he was served with a police hospital form with instructions to seek immediate medical attention. At about 3:00pm on the 6th May, 2019 an adult male of Hatchet Bay came in at Hatchet Bay Police Station where he was cautioned and arrested reference to causing harm. A record of interview was conducted under caution and he was charged with that offence.

Attempted House Breaking - On Sunday 5th May, 2019 sometime around 8:30am an adult male, contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station via phone and reported that he is the caretaker of a House which is located at Rainbow Bay Eleuthera and that sometime between 2:30pm on Saturday 4th May, 2019 and 8:30am on Sunday 5th May, 2019 some unknown person(s) attempted to break and enter same via a northern facing window. Police action requested. Officers visited the scene and were also provided with video footage which showed the suspect to be a male known to Police. This male was arrested and charged with Attempted House breaking.

Road Accident Report - On Wednesday 1st May, 2019, at about 7:35am an accident occured at the junction of Queen’s Highway and Haynes Avenue involving two (2) vehicles, one a grey Nissan Bluebird which was driven by an adult male of New Providence and a Black 2008 Honda Stream Wagon driven by an adult male of Governor’s Harbour. Officers while at the scene saw and spoke to both drivers in the presence of each other. The gray Nissan received damages to the front left wheel, hood, fender and bumper and the Black Honda received damages to the front bumper, hood and lights. There were no injuries, measurements were taken, N.O.I.P forms were served. Both drivers came to an agreement regarding to the vehicles being fixed. Both drivers produced proper valid documents.

HOUSEBREAKING & STEALING REPORT - On Tuesday 30th April, 2019 sometime around 2:10pm, an adult male reported at Tarpum Bay Police Station that sometime between the hours of 10:50am and 11:55am, he secured his residence and went into Rock Sound. Upon his return, he discovered that some unknown person(s) had broken and entered his residence through a western front door and exited through an eastern door. The culprit(s) stole (1) gold chain valued at $3000.00, (1) gold Pisces Medallion valued at

May/June, 2019

37

$700.00, (2) gold wedding rings and (1) gold engagement ring together valued at $10,000.00 and a gold fashion ring valued at $1,200.00. Police action was requested.

Action Taken/Results- On Tuesday 30th April, 2019 Officers visited and processed the scene where they saw and spoke with complainant. He pointed out an eastern front door as point of entry and it was seen where the lock had been tampered. He then led officers to a western back door and stated that he met the door wide open when he came home. He pointed out to the officers several glass jars on top of a bureau drawer and stated that the mentioned jewelry were stolen from out of them. Investigations continues into this matter.

Stealing from a Vehicle On Tuesday 30th April, 2019, at 8:12am an adult male reported to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station that sometime between the hours of 5:00pm Monday 29/04/2019 and 8:00am Tuesday 30/04/2019 some unknown person/s stole a black battery valued $180.00 from his black Mazda Demio sedan while same was left parked at the Governor’s Harbour Airport, Police action requested.

House Breaking - At 1:33pm On Sunday 28th April, 2019 an adult female Reported to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station that between11:05am on Sunday 28th April, 2019 and 1:15pm some unknown person/s broke and entered her residence and stole from her bedroom a red plastic container which contained $200.00 (two hundred dollars) in coins. She suspects that entry was gained through the rear kitchen door. Police Action request.

This scene was visited and processed.

Investigations are ongoing.

Traffic Accident Report: On Saturday 27th April, 2019 at 10:23am an anonymous caller contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station via telephone and reported that there was a Traffic Accident in the area of Burrows Pond located Governor’s Harbour. Police Assistance Requested. Officers visited the scene where they observed a four (4) door blue Nissan silphy which was registered to an adult female and driven at the time by an adult male the vehicle was positioned partially in the south bound lane and off the western road edge, facing in south western direction with extensive right front end damages.

Measurements were recorded of the scene of the accident while in the presence of driver who was also issued with a Noticed of Intended Prosecutions form.

H.I. & N.E. Reports Drug Arrest Report Possession of Dangerous Drugs On Sunday 26th May 2019 at about 12:25am, officers came in with an adult male suspect of Barrack Street, Harbour Island. They reported that at about 12:20am whiles in the area of Sammie’s Bar and Links Take away located Bay Street the suspect was arrested and cautioned in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs.

Causing Damage Report On Friday 3rd May 2019, an adult female of Hatchet Bay Eleuthera c/o Social Services Department came to the HIPS and reported that some unknown person/s caused damage to the front seat of the government Yamaha golf cart L/P# 2784. She further reported that a similar incident took place in 2018. Police action requested.

Arrest and Charge - Police at HIPS arrested and cautioned an adult male of Trianna Shores, Harbour Island in reference to a Causing Harm in reference to a complaint made. The suspect was later

38 www. EleutheraNews . com Continued from Page. 37 charged and released on bail.

Arrest - On Friday 3rd May 2019 an adult male of Munnings Street Harbour Island accompanied by an attorney came in to the HIPS where, he was then arrested and cautioned by PC 2866 Hall reference to Damage, Assaulting a police officer, Resisting Arrest, and Damage to Government Property.

Arrest - On Friday 3rd May 2019 at 2:05pm while at the HIPS, a PC arrested and cautioned suspect an adult male of Nesbit Street, Harbour Island in reference to Obstruction, Assaulting a Police Officer and Resisting Arrest.

Stealing- On Saturday 4th May, 2019 at about 11:00am an adult male of Lower Bogue, Eleuthera reported that on Thursday 2nd May 2019 his live-in girlfriend (last name unknown) moved out the apartment and he suspected that she stole $8,800. Police Action Requested.

On Saturday 4th May, 2019 police executed a search warrant at the home of an adult female Queen’s highway Lower Bogue in reference to stolen property with negative results.

Arrest W.O.A. - On Saturday 4th May, 2019 a police Crew conducted a search of a group of men acting in a suspicious manner in a yard on Queens Highway and East street Lower Bogue, North Eleuthera. An adult male of Lower Bogue was arrested on an active W.O.A. from Magistrate court #12 New Providence. He was taken to the North Eleuthera Police Station and then to the Harbour Island Police Station for safe keeping.

Arrest Report Ref: Stealing Report - On Tuesday 7th May 2019 at 10:35am police came in at the HIPS with an adult male suspect of Bluff, North Eleuthera under arrest in reference to Stealing and reported that he was arrested and cautioned at 700 Wines and Spirits on Bay Street, Harbour Island While at the HIPS, a SGT conducted a record of interview with the suspect under caution. He was released pending further investigation.

Suspect in Custody - On Tuesday 7th may 2019 at 11:43am a SGT arrived at S-3 with suspect a male of Upper Bogue, Eleuthera in reference to Housebreaking, Stealing and Receiving.

Arrest reference to Entry

by Night- On Tuesday 7/5/19 a Cpl came in at Harbour Island Police Station with the a male suspect of Duncan Lane Harbour Island and reported that the suspect was arrested and cautioned while on Barrack Street Harbour Island in reference to Entry by night a complaint made by a female on 30/3/19. He appeared well with no complaints.

Drug Arrest Report On Tuesday 7th May 2019 at 12:47am police conducted of a adult male suspect of Duncan Lane, Harbour Island in reference to Dangerous Drugs and Firearms which resulted in a Fire Grabber Leaf Pack containing a black plastic with a grassy like substance suspected to be marijuana in a small quantity being found in his front right pants pocket. He was cautioned as it relates to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. Police conducted an interview with the suspect under caution. He was charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs contrary to section 29(6) and 29(2) b of the Dangerous Drugs Act CH 228.

Accident Report (With

Crime News

Injuries)On Saturday 11th May 2019, sometime around 7:51pm, an unknown female caller, contacted the North Eleuthera Police Station and reported that there was an accident on Queens Highway, Lower Bogue, in the area of the Bluff entrance. Police action requested As a result of information received, police proceeded to Queens Highway, Lower Bogue, where they discovered a Silver Honda Accord overturned in bushes on the eastern side of the south bound lane. The officers also observed a dark male lying in the south bound lane in a semi conscious state. He was identified as, a male of Lower Bogue, and was said to be a passenger in the vehicle. He complained of neck pain, and stated that he was unable to stand. The officers contacted the Lower Bogue Clinic and updated Nurse Lewis on the matter.

She along with Nurse Bunch visited the scene, where they examined the victim, and later transported him to the Lower Bogue Clinic for further treatment. A number of other passengers inside of the vehicle also complained of minor injuries and were transported to the Lower Bogue Clinic via private vehicle for examination and treatment.

Driver Interviewed: The officers spoke to the driver of the vehicle, a young adult male of Bluff, Eleuthera. He stated that sometime around 7:35pm, he along with his (5) passengers were travelling south along Queens Highway, Lower Bogue, at approximately 55-60 mph, when he was distracted by persons inside of the vehicle, who were making noise. He then lost control of the vehicle, resulting in him sliding off the road, and into bushes, where the vehicle then flipped over approximately (2) two times. He stated that he ensured that all of his passengers exited the vehicle, before he came out. He was served with a Notice of Intended Prosecution form, which he signed.

Arson Report - On Monday 6th May 2019, sometime around 2:10pm, a Sgt on Queens Highway, Lower Bogue, reported that while at his residence he heard a loud explosion on the outside of his home. As a result he looked down into the parking lot and found that his Black 2015 Ford Explorer l/p #EL6159 was engulfed in flames. He stated that he proceeded into the parking lot, where he noticed a clear plastic gallon bottle resting in the back of the vehicle. He looked around the area, with negative results to any suspects. The fire was extinguished by personnel from the Lower Bogue Volunteer Fire Department. Investigations are continuing into this matter.

Arrested & Charged for Receiving - On Monday 6th May

2019, sometime around 3:45pm, a Sgt. while at the North Eleuthera Police Station, arrested and cautioned the a young adult female in reference to receiving.

She was charged and released on bail to appear before Harbour Island Magistrate Court on Wednesday 8th May 2019 at 10:00am. On Wednesday 8th May 2019, the suspect appeared before Magistrate K. Turnquest in Harbor Island, where she plead guilty to the offence and was fined $300.00 or (6) months at the Bahamas Department of Corrections.

Housebreaking & Stealing Report - On Monday 6th May 2019, sometime around 7:18pm, an ASP contacted the North Eleuthera Police Station, and reported that he received information from an adult male of Bluff, Eleutherathat some unknown peron/s had broken into his home. Police action requested. Police visited the residence where they saw and spoke with the complainant, who stated that sometime between 9:10am and 6:15pm, some unknown person/s broke and entered into his home and stole his Playstation 4 video game console, a “Shopvac” vacuum cleaner, his Bahamian Passport, and a green Crown Royale bag, containing approximately $200.00 in coins. A search was conducted of the bushes in the immediate area with negative results to locating any of the missing items.

Investigations are continuing.

Arrest reference to killing in the course of dangerous driving - On Tuesday 7th May, 2019 at about 9:00am, an adult male of Spanish Wells was in at the N.E.P.S. for Killing in the Course of Dangerous Driving. He was granted bail to attend court in Harbour Island on the 8/5/19 at 10:00am, where he appeared before Magistrate K. Turnquest.

Arrested and Charged for Receiving - On Tuesday 7th May, 2019 at about 10:22am an adult male of Upper Bogue came into the N.E.P.S. He was cautioned and Arrested by a Sgt. and later charged for the offence. He was granted bail to attend court in Harbour Island on the 8/5/19 at 10:00am. On Wednesday 8th May 2019, the suspect appeared before Magistrate K. Turnquest in Harbour Island, where he pled guilty to the offence and was fined $300.00 or (6) months at the Bahamas Department of Corrections.

Arrested and Charged for Stealing & Shop Breaking On Tuesday 7th May, 2019 at about 11:22am an adult male of Upper Bogue came into the N.E.P.S. He was cautioned and Arrested by Sgt 2806 Hield and later charged for the offence. He was taken to H.I.PS for safe keeping.

Arrest reference to Immigration purposes - On Wednesday 8th May 2019, sometime around 6:45pm, police while conducting enquiries in the area of Upper Bogue, Eleuthera, observed a male, who looked in the direction of the officers and quickly ran into a building. As a result the officers became suspicious and pursued the suspect into the building, where they questioned him in reference to his reason for running, and his identity, however, the suspect appeared to be unable to speak English, and was unable to produce any form of identification. As a result he was arrested and cautioned for immigration purposes. The suspect was handed over to the Department of Immigration for further investigations.

Housebreaking & Stealing

May/June, 2019

- On Tuesday 14th May 2019, sometime around 5:10pm, an elderly male of Current, Eleuthera, contacted the North Eleuthera Police Station and reported that he and his wife arrived home at 3:00pm and found that someone had broken into their home and stolen a number of items.

Police action requested. Police visited the scene, where they saw and spoke with one of the complainants, who reported that she and her husband, left home at about 10:30am and returned sometime around 3:00pm, to find that someone had broken into their home and stole (2) gold and silver Seiko watches, valued at approximately $300.00 each, (1) gold Citizen watch, valued at $400.00, (1) flat gold plated necklace, valued at $75.00, and approximately $30.00 in coins. Investigations are ongoing in this matter.

Assault, Disorderly Behavior, & Resisting Arrest -On Tuesday 14th May 2019, sometime around 6:45pm, police, while conducting enquiries in the area of Lower Bogue, received information from an elderly female of Bluff, in reference to a disturbance at her residence. Police action requested. Police preceded to the above mentioned location and on arrival they saw and spoke with a male, who reported that he and his wife’s nephew of Bluff, were involved in a verbal argument, which resulted in the nephew pushing him in the face with his finger. He requested Police action. As a result of the information received the officers approached the accused male, who was found a short distance away, standing with a group of men. A Sgt. beckoned to the suspect to come towards him, however, the suspect stated in a loud tone of voice “Aint no come here, that’s my family yard, and you’ll aint never served me with no court documents”.

Police approached the suspect and informed him that he was under arrest for Assault. He placed his hands on him and instructed him to turn around and place his hands behind his back. On doing so the suspect, pulled his hands away and shouted “You’ll aint never served me with no papers, my family own that yard”.

The suspected resisted further, however police were eventually able to handcuff the suspect. He continued to shout that no one ever served him with court documents, and to stay out of that yard. The suspect was informed that he was also under arrest in reference to disorderly behavior and resisting arrest. Investigations are ongoing.

Arrest reference to Causing harm - On Wednesday 15/5/19 at about 2:35pm a PC reported that while at Harbour Island Police Station he arrested and cautioned an adult male of Nesbitt Street, Harbour Island in reference to causing harm - a complaint made on 11/5/19. He was later charged with Assault contrary to section 133 of the Penal code chapter 84 , processed and released on bail in the sum of $1,000 with one suretor to appear before Magistrate Court Harbour Island on 4/7/19.

Assault/Damage Report - An adult male of Harbour Island came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that at about 1:40Pm on 15/5/19 while at his residence doing repairs his ex-wife struck him to his head with a ladder and poked him in the area of his right eye with a piece of pipe causing swelling. He added that on the same date at around 4:00pm he discovered that his camera attached to the South Eastern was damaged suspecting his wife to be responsible for same. Police action requested. Police viewed an apparent swelling to the right eye of the complain-

Crime News ant. He was issued with an official Police hospital form reference to the apparent injury under his right eye.

Arrest reference to Arson On Thursday 16/5/19 at about 4:25pm Crew of Eskimo 16 came in at Harbour Island Police Station with the an adult male suspect of Queens Highway Lower Bogue and reported that he was arrested and cautioned the suspect while on Bay Street Harbour Island in the area of B.P.L in reference to Arson. Investigations ongoing.

Traffic Accident Report On Thursday 16th May 2019 at about 11:49pm an anonymous caller contacted the HIPS and reported that a young adult male of Coconut Grove Ave, Harbour Island was riding a motorcycle in a reckless manner in the area of Daddy D’s located Dunmore Street. As a result, that male fell off of the motorcycle and it appeared as if he may have broken his left leg, police assistance requested.

Arrest Reference to Arson - On Friday 17th May 2019, sometime around 12:00pm, police while in the area of Queens Highway, Lower Bogue, arrested and cautioned an adult female suspect, of Queens Highway, Lower Bogue, in reference to Arson. She was transported to the North Eleuthera Police Station where she was interviewed and released pending further investigations.

Assault and Damage Arrest - On Friday 17th May, 2019 at about 12:00 pm an adult female of Colebrooke Street came to the Harbour Island Police Station where she was arrested and cautioned in reference to Assault and Causing Damage. The suspect was interviewed under caution where she denied assaulting the complainant but admitted that she did knock down a camera that was facing her back door invading her privacy. On instructions from Sgt.1401 Carey the suspect was released from police custody pending further investigations.

Stealing Report - A young adult female of Colebrooke Street Harbour Island came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that while at the Haitian flag day festival Nesbitt Street Harbour Island working at one of the bars some unknown person(s) stole her blue dooney and Bourke hand bag valued at $100.00.Containing her national insurance smart card #number unknown, royal bank of Canada debit card, I-phone ear phones plugs value unknown, house keys and about $147.00 in cash. She requested Police action, and assistance to obtain a report for a replacement N.I.B card.

Shop breaking & Stealing On Tuesday 21st May 2019, sometime around 12:00pm, a PC reported to the North Eleuthera Police Station that he received information from an adult male East Street, Lower Bogue that between 10:30pm on Monday 20th May 2019 and 6:00am on Tuesday 21st May 2019, (2) two males broke into his establishment, and stole $1,500.00 cash from his cash register. Police action requested.

Police recorded a written statement from the complainant. They visited the scene, where they saw and spoke with the complainant, who gave them additional information.

Threats of harm Report On Friday 24th May 2019 at 12:50pm an adult male of Pitt Street, Harbour Island came to the HIPS and reported that while on board a vessel moored at the PLP Dock attempting to loosen a rope to the vessel, a young man whom he knows jumped on the vessel that he was on with a wood containing nails and threatened him saying “you

throw that rope again, I will knock the #%$ out of you”. This put him in fear; he requested police action in this matter.

Suspect interviewed reference to: Possession of dangerous drugs - On Sunday 26/5/19 a Cpl reported that while on duty at Harbour Island Police Station, an adult male suspect of Barrack Street, Harbour Island was interviewed under caution in reference to possession of dangerous drugs where he was asked a series of questions. He admitted to the offense.

Suspect charged, processed & Granted Police bail The accused was charged with Possession of dangerous drugs contrary to section 29(6) & 29(2)b of the dangerous drugs act chapter 228 - he had no reply to the charge. The accused was granted bail in the sum of $1000.00 with one suretor to appear before Magistrate Court, Harbour Island on Thursday 4th July,2019.

Stealing from vehicle ReportAt about 6:10pm on Tuesday the 22nd May 2019, an adult female of Queens Highway, Lower Bogue reported to the North Eleuthera Police Station that sometime between 10:20am and 5:50pm on the same date some unknown person/s broke into her vehicle while it was left secured at Three Island Dock and stole a Black and Red face Pioneer CD player and also the battery from the hood which read “North Eleuthera Service Station”.

Value was unknown at the time. Police action is requested. Enquiries are ongoing in this matter.

Arrest: Possession of Dangerous Drugs - At about 7:40pm on Saturday the 25th May 2019, police came into the North Eleuthera Police Station with two suspects under arrest - an adult male of New Jersey and an adult female of Pennsylvania, United States of America, for possession of dangerous drugs, a small quantity of suspected Marijuana.

Police interviewed both suspects under caution who admitted to the offence of being in Possession of Dangerous Drugs, as a result they were charged for the offence and on the instructions of an Inspector, both persons were released on $500.00 bail to appear before Magistrate’s Court.

Information Released by

May/June, 2019

tax measures Continued from Page. 35 pleased to advise that this higher ceiling has been made permanent, and customers will continue to enjoy VAT zero-rating on electricity bills under $300. Water Bills under $50 per billing cycle will also continue to enjoy VAT zero-rating. I can also announce today Mr. Speaker that as of March of this year over 23,500 households have benefitted from this elimination of VAT from these utilities.”

Environmental Protection and Advancement DPM Turnquest also explained that to advance the Government’s commitment to environmental sustainability, it has tailored several measures in the 2019/20 Budget with an aim to not only protect the environment, but also to increase environmental awareness across all islands.

In addition, he stated that the measures aimed at environmental purposes are in line with the Government’s planned ban on plastic by January 2020. These

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measures include: Reducing the duty on new vehicles between 1.5 liters (1500cc) and 2.0 liters (2000cc) valued at $50,000 or less from 65 per cent to 45 per cent. In this context, only cars with less than 200 miles on the odometer will be considered ‘new’.

This makes smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles more affordable.

Harmonizing the rates on all new electric and hybrid vehicles valued up to $50,000 to 10 per cent. It should be noted here that this measure will have a sunset clause of five years, after which this special revision will revert closer to the rates for other small size vehicles.

Increasing the duty on biodegradable and compostable plastic shopping bags, from five per cent to 45 per cent; but at the same time, reducing the duty on reusable cloth shopping bags from 30 per cent to 5 per cent.

Banning the use of selected singleuse plastic bags, plastic food utensils, and Styrofoam food containers by January 1, 2020.

Water & Sewerage Corporation following a

tour of Eleuthera Plants by its Chairman Press Release: Chair-

man of the Water and Sewerage Corporation, Adrian Gibson led a delegation of senior government officials on a tour of several water plants in Eleuthera, on Thursday, May 16, 2019.

The first stop was to view the Reverse Osmosis (RO) Plant in Waterford, which services 800 customers in four settlements. The plant also features a storage tank with the capacity of 120,000 gallons as back up for up to four days.

“In addition to supplying water to these communities, we are hoping to tie in this plant to the Tarpum Bay plant in order to facilitate a more efficient water supply system,” said the Chairman, adding that improve-

ment of services on the island is in keeping with the Government’s objectives of supplying optimal water services.

He said that the Corporation is also preparing for the impending Disney project.

Following the stop in Waterford, the delegation visited a storage and distribution facility in Bannerman Town.

The system, which is a gravity fed pressure pump, supplies 25 households with potable water and features two storage tanks, each with a 5,000-gallon capacity.

“Systems such as this one reduces complaints of low pressure and inadequate supply,” said Mr. Gibson. “We put this type of mechanism in place to

serve smaller communities such as Bannerman Town.”

The Chairman also visited an RO plant in Lower Bogue.

He said it is the largest of its kind on any island outside of New Providence. The plant has the capacity to supply 500,000 gallons of water daily to customers. He said that construction commenced in October 2018 and it is anticipated that it will come to completion soon.

The delegation also made a stop to Harbour Island and Spanish Wells. On Harbour Island, remedial works had been carried out to remove 600-feet of cast iron pipes to PVC pipes.

The Chairman said that this was done to respond to complaints of brown water.

Member of Parliament, the Hon. Ricardo Mackey, also toured the Harbour Island site with the Nassau delegation. He said he was pleased that the Corporation has been able to resolve the issues.

“The issue of brown water has been a legacy problem for some time,” said Mr. Mackey.

“This new RO system has addressed the problems of brown water and low pressure, and accessibility has been greatly improved. Brown water is now a thing of the past. The population of Harbour Island stands at approximately 2,500 year round and 4,000 persons during the winter months when there is an influx of visitors and transient residents.”

40 www. EleutheraNews . com

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Haitian Diaspora - cELEBRATES FLAG DAY 2019 in GHB, HBR and Blackwood

FEATURED PICTORIAL PAGES 40-44

BY The eleutheran news team

In commemoration of the 216th anniversary of the establishment of a Haitian Flag, members of the Haitian Diaspora along with Haitian Bahamians and other members of the community, gathered in three locations around The Eleutheras in celebration.

Events were held at the Governor’s Harbour Bay Front and Harbour Island on Saturday, May 18th and then on the park in Blackwood on the Sunday, May 19th where activities were peppered with bouts of rain, curtailing some of the stage performances later in the afternoon.

The afternoon going into the evening at the Governor’s Harbour event was one of sport, cultural dances, music, games, and food.

Celebrated by the Haitian diaspora throughout the Americas and the Caribbean, Flag Day celebrations in Eleuthera are said to have begun during the 1960’s and actually held initially in Governor’s Harbour.

The Ambassador of Haiti to Mexico Guy G. Lamothe penned a message to Haitians celebrating the day to remember the symbology representations that go with the adoption of the flag on May 18, 1803, on the last day of the Congress of Arcahaie.

The message as published

by Haitilibre.com “216 years since in Arcahaie on May 18, the founding fathers of the Independence of Haiti have made a capital act : the creation of our twocolor. This historic act results from a collective surge of two antagonistic groups, determined to put aside their particular rancor, for the conquest of freedom and independence.

216 years later, revisiting this act with regard to Haitian news, the symbolism that emerges is a carrier of a set of lessons. The celebration in 2019 challenges us all, sisters and brothers of the country and the diaspora, and brings us to take into account its plural scope.

May 18, 1803 is an example of maturity and lucidity. Our ancestors understood the necessity of true union, acquired clairvoyance to recognize the undeniable enemy, and finally recognized the obligation to look together in the same direction; May 18, 1803 is an example of self-denial of individual appetites for the benefit of the collective interest. It indicates above all the importance of reconciliation and solidarity;

On May 18, 2019, we are instructed to teach the struggle in Haiti against the common enemy : insecurity, illiteracy, unemployment, economic decline, environmental degradation, etc...; May 18, 2019 is incumbent on us as in Arcahaie, to bring our citizen contribution for a new order of things to the positive destiny of the Nation.

It is then and only then that on the basis of these precepts we will have appropriate the symbolism of Arcahaie. Girls and sons of the country are reforming the beam, pooling our skills Article Continued Page 44

Above:

Dance in groups and pairs, both planned and spontaneous are a key part of the celebrations held. Shown in the two group photos above are some of the girls who performed on stages in Governor’s Harbour and/or Blackwood.

Afternoon’s celebration on Saturday May 18th, 2019 started with an intensely battled, fun football (soccer) game on the Bay Front in Governor’s Harbour with teams made up of players resident in both Nassau and Eleuthera.

Eyes were peeled on the action and faces showing anticipation, satisfaction/(dis-) or any other emotion on the continuum of interest in this the most popular sport in Haiti .

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May/June

PICTURE THIS: Football (Soccer) on the field at the Bay Front in Governor’s Harbour as part of Haitian Flag Day 2019

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42 www. EleutheraNews . com

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May/June, 2019

PICTURE THIS: The Crowd enjoying FLAG FASHION in Governor’s Harbour as part of Haitian Flag Day 2019

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blackwood & GHB

I sl a nd “B uzz ”

All photos on the left page are from Governor’s Harbour inclusive of the creatively modelled designs. The photos on this right page are all from Blackwood except for the top left which shows spontaneous dance in the crowd at GHB. All part of the 2019 Haitian Flag Day Celebrations in Eleuthera.

May/June

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44 www. EleutheraNews . com

Flag Day ‘2019’ Continued from Page. 40

and looking to the future with hope.

Hope for a better life and well-being for us and for future generations.

President Jovenel Moïse was quoted as saying: “The national bi-color remains the most prominent symbol of national unity. On May 18th, I hope that everyone remembers and adopts the spirit of brotherhood that animated our ancestors at Arcahaie in 1803. Happy Flag Day!” Foreign Affairs Bocchit Edmond wished “Happy Flag Day to all my Haitian Brothers and Sisters. This bi-color is the symbol of our national unity. Let us work harder to strengthen it in national dialogue and understanding despite our differences. Long live the blue and red flag.”

Former President Michel Martelly declared “Drapo ki fonde nasyon an se plis pase 2 moso

Photos on this page show celebrants of Haitian Flag Day in both Blackwood and Governor’s Harbour enjoying the festivities inclusive of bright smiles, spontaneous paired dance on the ground and rehearsed dance on the stages.

Isl a nd “B uz z ” twal ki kole ansanm. Li se nanm tout yon pèp ki vle gade yon sèl kote: chimen tèt ansanm. Se menm lespri ki te gide zansèt nou yo 18 me 1803 ki dwe enspire nou jodia pou nou aprann mete enterè peyi a anvan tout bagay.”

Haiti’s Independence was declared on January 1st, 1804.

The Haitiian flag and its colors were celebrated with flair. The Bahamian flag also flew firmly on the event ground, All part of the 2019 Haitian Flag Day Celebrations in Eleuthera.

May/June, 2019

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One Eleuthera (/CTI)’s work showcased via Post - Earth Day ‘Open House’

BY The eleutheran news team

On Saturday, May 25th, the One Eleuthera Foundation hosted a Post-Earth Day Open House Event, which saw small groups from the wider Eleuthera community being taken on full tours around the grounds and facilities of One Eleuthera and the Center for Training and Innovation (CTI) campus, at the top of every hour, beginning at 11am on Saturday morning until 6pm.

“The Open House today,” shared Gacintha Gordon, Registrar at CTI, “was to showcase the work that One Eleuthera and its partners have done since our inception in 2012, and to show people what we’ve accomplished from the ‘Shared

tertiary institution, and strengthened the South Eleuthera Mission, which caters to kindergarten through grade 12, through resources and programs. In 2019, beginning in August, CTI is working to expand into North Eleuthera, and partnering with the community of Harbour Island to begin offering classes - with Hospitality and Electrical as the first two areas to be covered.”

Derrinique Elliott, Assistant Registrar at CTI, was also one of the tour group leaders on Saturday, providing details about the different features around the One Eleuthera grounds and CTI campus facilities included on the hourly tours.

Community members that came out were able to explore several of the well-

Touring: Farmer Edrin Symonette gave a wealth of information on both livestock rearing and plant grafting to people touring the farm facilities at CTI on Saturday, May 5th, 2019.

Vision’, as this is our guiding document.

So, it’s showing the Eleuthera community what they said they wanted in that ‘Shared Vision’ back in 2010 when the document was first published.

“One example of what the community said was that they wanted improvement in educational opportunities, so, One Eleuthera established the Center for Training and Innovation (CTI), a

showcased along the tour, as areas being planned for restoration and repurposing.

Solar array installations on the top of the Tea Room and other buildings were highlighted, having been put in place during the first two sets of solar installation classes hosted at CTI in 2018 and 2019. The extensive farm area on campus was another feature of the tour, where local livestock farmer, Edrin Symonette, explained details of the new livestock program on exhibit.

Persons on tour also had the opportunity to walk the rows of citrus and other varieties of fruit trees being grown, and along the greens and other ground provisions throughout the farm area.

Mr. Symonette, also fielded numerous questions on various farming techniques being explored, and the seedling/grafting program being implemented on a variety of the fruiting trees showcased.

Tarpum Bay Grill Boys take Nassau by Storm

appointed hotel rooms within The Retreat at CTI, totally refurbished by teaching partners and earlier student cohorts of CTI, as well as the beautifully restored office facilities of One Eleuthera and other buildings on campus serving various purposes, including the staff and stores facilities, and the restored multi-purpose Tea Room.

The old Rock Sound Club House, tennis courts and pool facility were also

Police investigates child hit by car According to a Royal Bahamas Police Force release, Police in Eleuthera on May 31st 2019, initiated investigations into an incident described as a traffic mishap which at that time resulted in a child being admitted to hospital in the Capital.

According to reports, shortly after 5:00pm, on that date, a resident of Green Castle, South Eleuthera arrived at home with a male child. He secured the vehicle, leaving the child inside and got into another vehicle. As he was reversing, he heard the child screaming. He got out of the vehicle and noticed that the child was at the rear of this vehicle and bleeding from an injury to the head.

The injured child was transported to the Rock Sound Community Clinic and subsequently flown to a hospital on New Providence where he was listed in critical condition.

Up to print time, the child, according to authorities, remained in hospital listed in critical, but stable condition.

For Updates Visit www.EleutheraNews.com

Open House: One Eleuthera and CTI Staff were on hand to give information about the organizations’ ongoing work and accomplishments to date.

The Tarpum Bay Grill Boys, back in April, took Nassau by storm as the title winners for the fourth consecutive year at the Bahamas Welding and Fire (BWF) Pig Roasting Championships amongst ten teams competing. The Bay team also took 2nd place overall in the Barbeque competition, with a 1st place finish for chicken, 2nd place for ribs, and 3rd place for beef.

Second (2nd) place was also theirs for the People’s Choice award.

The event, now in its tenth year, hosted

by BWF on Milton Street in New Providence, showcase three events in one; the Grilling competition, the Pig Roasting competition, and the Grill making competition.

This year the Tarpum Bay Grill Boys took on grilling and roasting, with grill making a target for 2020.

Next stop for the Eleuthera based team

will be the Caribbean Barbeque Association’s (CBA) Grill competition coming up in July 2019, also being hosted in Nassau this year, said, Julian Carey, one of the leads for the team. “We go about throughout the country, barbequing and grilling for the fun! It’s like Junkanoo. Something that you love doing and have a passion for. We love to grill, and most of all, we love to compete - and it’s not even so much about the winning, but hooking up with old friends, making new friends - we form relationships, we form connections, and it’s a lot of fun!”

Competing teams, said Julian, are also interested in making a trip to Eleuthera, so the possibility of the Grill Boys hosting a similar event on island later in 2019 is wide open.

46 www. EleutheraNews . com

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LLNPP & DCMS Partner to Pilot a Native Plant Project

In The Photos: Shovels in hand, DCMS students were an active part of the process with LLNPP personnel, Mr. Omar Mcklewhite (hair wrap) and Dr. Ethan Freid (cap).

BY The eleutheran news team

On Wednesday, May 8th, representatives of the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve (LLNPP) visited with staff and students at the Deep Creek Middle School (DCMS) to kick off their Native Plant Project.

Courtney Kemp, Education and Outreach Officer, with LLNPP, summarizing the project, said that the key focus was on native plants, and why they are important. “Also, landscaping schools with native plants to create a space that’s native to the Bahamas…

Using these plants for educational opportunities as well - not just adding an aesthetic aspect to the campus, but having an outdoor classroom space that teachers can use to focus on why native plants are important, plant taxonomy, ecology, social studies, math … There

are so many different directions teachers can go in using just a species of plant that is native to the Bahamas to teach,” she explained.

“It’s sort of an adopt-a-tree program,” Courtney added, “where each school that we go to would adopt a specific tree, and that would be ‘sort of’ the mascot tree of their school. So, we also hope to instill some pride as well, to say that, ‘this is our species of tree’. They can represent that, and it’s something they can share across the board, so, when they meet friends from another school, they can have a conversation about their specific native tree.”

Immediately following an information presentation to the students at DCMS about the project and the native tree species they would be planting at the front of their school, the enthusiastic seventh, eighth and ninth graders,

got up close and personal with the soil, planting a number of “Peltophorum adnatum”, also known as ‘Horse bush’ or ‘Sarah’s toes’ trees near the entrance of their campus, ably assisted by LLNPP staff, Omar Mcklewhite, and Dr. Ethan Freid, Botanist with LLNPP, who was said to have procured the trees - which are known to occur throughout the Central Bahamas and Cuba - from Long Island. Horse bush or Sarah’s toes was described as a tree that grew tall, with attractive yellow flowers, and reddishbrown fruit - a legume in the bean family.

“This is just the beginning,” said Courtney. “This is the first school we have reached out to so far, so, we hope to continue to do this throughout the years. DCMS is our first pilot school, and we are really excited to be working with them. They have been really

supportive of us and this project. We hope that right at the beginning of the new school year we will be in another school, and hopefully hit more than one school during the year… We are hoping to cover not only just schools in Eleuthera, but to eventually broaden our spectrum to islands across the Bahamas.”

Reach out to us at

The Eleutheran Newspaper at 422-9350

(call, text or Whatsapp) or send an email to services@theeleutheran.com,

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Student Athletes Represent Well at the 2019 Frank ‘Pancho’ Rahming Primary Track and Field Nationals

BY The eleutheran news team

The 35th Annual Frank “Pancho” Rahming Primary School Track and Field Championships, hosted by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, opened in New Providence on Wednesday, May 22nd, 2019, with student athletes from more than 60 primary schools throughout the country participating in the three-day event, which wrapped up on Friday, May 24th.

90 student athletes from Eleuthera participated as part of two district teams, one from the South Eleuthera school district, and the other from the Central and North Eleuthera school district.

Coach Kennord Mackey led the team of primary athletes from the South Eleuthera district, with a group of 42 children from Tarpum Bay, Rock Sound, Green Castle, Wemyss Bight and Deep Creek primary schools. After the points were tallied for each of the teams participating at the Primary Track Nationals, the South Eleuthera team, dubbed the “South Eleuthera Speedsters”, finished 13th overall.

Medaling for the Speedsters this year was Nathan Rolle, with a bronze in the softball throw in the U10 boys. Tynia Whylly, earned a silver in the 75m, girls U8. The open mixed (boys and girls) relay team, garnered a bronze - including team members: Lorenzo Sands, Baily Babbs, Tynia Whylly, and Marcellus Pyfrom. In the boys open 75m relay event, the team of Lorenzo Sands, Payton Maynard, Denton Brown and Emmanuel Brice, also brought home a silver. Several 4th place finishers, included Paris Knowles in the U10 girls softball throw, Clement Munroe in the U14 boys 800m, as well as the girls open 4 X100m team of Giovanni Meadows, Jayda Burrows, Aaliyah Demeritte and Kayandra Butler.

Coach Mackey, commenting after the nationals, said that the “Speedsters” had done very well, however, he thought that there was still much room for improvement. He encouraged parents of the young athletes to continue to keep them engaged in the sport year-round by allowing them to take part in the continuous training program he hosts in south Eleuthera.

Coach Ann Bullard of Harbour Island spear-

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headed the team of primary athletes from the Central and North Eleuthera district, with a group of 48 students competing from Laura L. Anderson, Harbour Island, Samuel Guy Pinder, P. A. Gibson, James’ Cistern, Emily G. Petty, and Emma E. Cooper primary schools.

Notably, Keano Reid, from Laura L. Anderson earned a silver medal in the boys U11 high jump. Overall, the Central and North Eleuthera team finished in 18th place nationally.

In the photos: South Eleuthera’s young talent and parent/staff support are shown at the airport above and on the field in New Providence on the left.

Some of the young achievers from Central and North Eleuthera are shown in the bottom three photos with one first place finisher showing his winning ribbon.