The Eleutheran Newspaper - Oct/Nov Issue 2018

Eleuthera, Harbour Island & Spanish Wells

Harbour Island Spanish Wells Eleuthera

Volume 11, Issue 10, November 2018

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Harbour Island: A beautiful setting for the 2018 Optimist Nationals The Harbour Island Sailing Club hosted the Bahamas Optimist National Championships 2018 during the weekend of October 12th and 13th. Joining the local sailors were clubs from Nassau, Long Island, Abaco, Cayman Islands and Turks & Caicos, who travelled to Harbour Island to take part in the junior sailing event - the largest Regatta held throughout the Bahamas on an annual basis.

Eighty nine (89) sailors, between the ages of 7 and 15 years old, competed in the Championship and Green Fleets - the Green Fleet being for beginners and the Championship Fleet (split into Red, Blue and White Fleets depending on the sailors’ age) for those who are more advanced sailors. The Harbour Island Sailing Club had the largest group of sailors at the Regatta – with 23 in total.

Photo by Paola Wells.

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Above: Birds eye view of Opti boats in the harbour near the Harbour Island dock during the 2018 Optimist Nationals. Source: Harbour Island Sailing Club.

Honour Roll Students Awarded

Heroes Day Weekend Fun

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Vital Services pg: 8

An Eleutheran Profile

Suzzette Kemp Wallace

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Briland Optimists Continued from pg. 1 The sailing took place in two race course areas in between Harbour Island and North Eleuthera. “It was a spectacular sight to see that number of boats sailing in the bay,” said Rosemary Clarke, a leader with the Harbour Island Sailing Club.

“The Regatta had Harbour Island buzzing for three days with the beach area ‘Under the Fig Tree’ and opposite The Landing loaded with Opti boats, parents, chaperones and sailors all getting ready for the races,”she added, and continued, “By all accounts everyone enjoyed their time on Harbour Island. The weather was perfect for the sailors and they all competed fairly but fiercely!

“The Race Committee were most impressed with all the kids attitudes and sportsmanship – and, in fact, two of the sailors were commended at the Awards

Ceremony for stopping in the middle of their races to help a fellow sailor (in both cases from another Club) who had capsized and were struggling. Which proves that sailing is a sport that teaches many different life skills. Be it kindness, helpfulness, teamwork, personal accomplishment, selfdiscipline and, of course, the art of sailing.

“Harbour Island Sailing Club is proud to have held an event at which these young sailors could express their abilities and skills over a competitive but fun-filled few days.”

Highlighting the tremendous cooperation shown by the Harbour Island community, Mrs. Clarke expressed the club’s gratitude, stating, “We could not have hosted this event without the support of so many of Harbour Island’s businesses, home owners and families. We can safely say that nearly everyone on the island had some sort of an input to making this an event Briland should be very proud of. Our thanks go out to everyone who helped – we could not have done it without you!”

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Disney cruise line Lighthouse Point Proposal, Approved by National Economic Council

BY The eleutheran news team The Bahamas Cabinet Office released a formal statement on October 19th, 2018, announcing the approval of the proposal submitted by Disney Cruise Line Island Development Ltd. to develop a cruise port at Lighthouse Point at the southernmost tip of Eleuthera by the National Economic Council. The release further stated that negotiations would now begin on a Heads of Agreement to detail the scope of the project, the obligations of the Disney Cruise Line Island Development Ltd. and the obligations of the Government of The Bahamas. Once negotiations were concluded,

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the release stated that the Heads of Agreement would be presented to Parliament. (See the full article online, visit - Eleutheranews. com/?p=17736) Disney Response to Approval Announcement: Disney Cruise Line released a response following the approval announcement, expressing their excitement, adding that in the short term they would be focused on reaching an agreement with the Bahamas government and moving forward with an environmental impact assessment and management plan. (For the full article online, visit - Eleutheranews. com/?p=17738) Lighthouse Point Partners (LPP) Response to Cabinet Decision: Lighthouse Point Partners, the local coalition which had proposed an alternative sustainable development plan to the Bahamas government for Lighthouse Point, also released a response to the government’s decision to approve Disney’s private cruise port proposal, calling it a “regrettable capitulation” by the Government of the Bahamas, “perpetuating a failed model”, and highlighted that their alternative proposal would, “create more, and better paying jobs for the people of South Eleuthera, with broad and meaningful involvement by Bahamian investors, environmental organizations and local hoteliers.”

(See the full article online, visit - Eleutheranews.com/?p=17742) LPP described presentation meeting ahead of decision as charade: A presentation meeting, where LPP partners presented their proposal to a team at the Office of the Prime Minister on Friday, October 12th (the Prime Minister did not attend the meeting), was described as a ‘charade’. ‘Official public consultation in Eleuthera is in favour of Disney’, the group representing the Lighthouse Point Partners (LPP) coalition were reportedly told during the closed door meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister while presenting their detailed proposal for Lighthouse Point. (For the full article online, visit - Eleutheranews.com/?p=17705)

More Rally Than Economy at PM’s October 10th meeting in South Eleuthera: A town meeting in Green Castle, South Eleuthera on Wednesday evening, October 10th, 2018, with Prime Minister Hubert Minnis as the main speaker, was promoted as being held to discuss the state of the economy in Central and South Eleuthera, but with a room full of energy packed, t-shirt wearing attendees, it could easily have been mistaken as a “Pro Disney Rally”. (See the full article online, visit - Eleutheranews.com/?p=17652)

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Major Shift in Government’s Approach to the Business of Farming, Eleuthera farmers told

Below: Minister Michael Pintard at podium next to Phedra Rahming, Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources.

BY The eleutheran news team

Farmers from across the span of Eleuthera were invited to attend a 10am meeting on Friday, October 5th, 2018, held at the Workers House Complex in Governor’s Harbour, convened by Michael Pintard, Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources and his administrative colleagues.

Explaining the purpose of his meeting with the farmers on island, Minister Pintard shared, “We wanted an opportunity to meet with the farmers to explore opportunities that exist for agriculture and marine resources, and to look at some of the challenges they face.

Also to share with them what our approach is going to be going forward, in terms of our interaction with them - in terms of helping them access insurance, funding opportunities, as well as subsidies or help-in-kind, and helping to remove some of the impediments that they are experiencing as they try to grow their business.”

In his presentation “This to the farmers, Pintard signaled at major changes Government to come in the packbelieves in ing house system, “This weaning” government believes in weaning. In other words farmers should not see the government as their salvation. We are your partners, and we don’t believe that we should be occupying a business space, carrying out business functions that you are more qualified to carry out than us. So weaning means that you should not develop any dependency on the packing house system. In fact the private sector and cooperatives would be far more effective at purchasing from farmers and distributing to the market. In other words, the government ought to, and we are looking for those in private sector and cooperatives or private entities that wish to partner with us in the privatization of this packing house concept.”

He emphasized that the government was heading in the direction of dealing with ‘bigger picture’ issues, and giving transportation as an example, he said, “We should be looking at transportation, with appropriate cooling systems, so that we are able to assist you in getting your product to market. Our conversation should be with those who own vessels, and you should be saying to the government,

‘do not subsidize boats from the various islands that do not have the appropriate cooling systems, or the regularity in scheduling’, that may negatively affect your operation. This is the direction we are headed in.”

He also spoke about the Ministry working with the private sector to make sure that insurance options were in place to protect the investments of farmers as well as fishermen in the event of catastrophes, like hurricanes.

With perhaps a bit of a hint that he may have had some early knowledge of the government’s intended approval announcement about cruise port enterprise in South Eleuthera later in October, Minister Pintard, emphasized the government’s push to encourage farmers to band together in cooperatives, highlighting the benefits of being able to better control prices, take advantage of volume quantities, regularize quality standards, and reach new markets, stating, “We are committed to assisting in putting you, as cooperatives, in the same room with the buyers. Who do you sell to? You sell directly to the public through Farmer’s Markets and direct orders.

You sell to food stores, to restaurants, to

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An Eleutheran Profile:

Suzzette Kemp Wallace (49)

BY Elizabeth A. Bryan

Introduction…

With October 2018 being highlighted as breast cancer awareness month, The Eleutheran sat and chatted with an outspoken survivor of this disease, which has been prevalent within communities across the island. Her story is one of strength and courage, as well as of challenges and personal shortcomings, but she has pushed through and taken decisions to make pivotal changes in her life, choosing to walk a healthier path and to share her experience with cancer to help other women struggling with the disease.

Early Days…

A true island girl, Suzzette Kemp Wallace was born in Hatchet Bay to her mother Leona Kemp (nee Bethel), from Hatchet Bay, and her father Luther Kemp of Current Island on August 18th, in 1969. With five siblings, one sister and four brothers, Suzzette did not spend much of her young life in the place of her birth, but grew up on Current Island. Home life with her Mom and Dad she described as somewhat tumultuous, with numerous periods of separation over the years. Much of those times, she said, was spent with her Dad on Current Island, where she had many happy memories of her time growing up.

“Current Island was good. Despite the fact that the island was neglected in terms of infrastructure, like running water etc…, we had our water pumps, our generators, tv’s and dvd players. We would shop for wholesale groceries in Nassau, and for things like butter and eggs, when we ran out, we would go to Current and get them... I remember the moonlight on Current Island. We would go out on the dock and sit down, and there would be no other lights disturbing it - just the moonlight and the calmness of the sea. We would sit on the dock until like one-two o-clock in the morning - the families - just sitting down, talking and laughing, cracking jokes.

Some weekends as I got old enough, we would go over to Bogue to a party or to the disco, then go back over, but life was good on Current Island,” said Suzzette.

She grew up loving the water. Her dad was a fisherman, who as she was growing up would go out fishing on the ‘smack’ boats of Current, for lobster and other fish - staying out for weeks at a time. He also fished locally in his boat, and Suzzette smiled, remembering being out in the boat with him, ‘holding the boat’ as he dove for lobster, conch and other fish. Her mother was a straw work artisan, plaiting straw into unique creations to be sold at the straw market in Nassau.

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School Days…

“There were many more families on Current Island when I was growing up,” reminisced Suzzette. She remembered there being significantly more children at the Current Island primary school back then, compared to today, where less than fifty people in total now reside on the island. School for her, “was interesting”, she smiled, recalling one carefree incident that left its mark. As a young girl at the school, she said the principal at the time, was assisted by one trained teacher, and a number of ‘monitors’ or student teachers. One day when oversight was apparently lacking, she remembered literally swinging from the rafters of the school house roof, athletically pivoting from one beam to the other.

She slipped while over reaching, and the result of the fall was a broken wrist. However, she survived the incident, and went on to complete primary school, which went up to grade nine at the time.

In 1983, For her tenth-grade year, Suzzette was sent to Windermere High School in Savannah Sound. She said, however, that she was not happy with the level of work she was doing at the school that year, and said she asked her Dad not to send her there again the next year, but to save his money. So, for her 11th and 12th grade years, she attended the Governor’s Harbour High School - GHHS (now Central Eleuthera High School), where she said she treasured meeting some really good friends while she was there. While attending GHHS, she lived in Hatchet Bay with her mother, who was separated from her Dad at the time, and her maternal grandparents. In Hatchet Bay, she said there were many good memories, and shared that she absolutely loved going into the farm with her grandpa, who was Mr. Claudius Bethel Sr., and spending time helping him with his work in the fields.

Career and Family…

After graduating from Governor’s Harbour High School in 1986, Suzzette said she was invited to spend several months in Freeport, Grand Bahama, with a woman who was like a second mother to her, dubbed her ‘adopted mother’, where she helped to babysit for about five months. After returning to Current Island, she began work as an apprentice chef at the Current Club, where she spent three years, before becoming pregnant with her first child. Admitting that she had not always been an ideal example - Suzzette had two additional children in fairly quick succession, for different men, with her third child born in 1993, the year

following the life altering devastation of hurricane Andrew in The Current. In 1995, she got married to the father of her third child, Mr. Bradford Wallace of Lower Bogue, who was also a fisherman.

Once she moved to Lower Bogue on the mainland after getting married, Suzzette looked for work in Harbour Island, and first worked at Valentines, until the fire of 1997, which destroyed some of the property, including the main kitchen, where she worked as a chef. “I started out at Valentines, and then it burned down in 1997.

Where the pool is now, used to be where the main kitchen was, as well as rooms,” she described. She went on to work at Sheena’s Takeaway near the dock in Harbour Island for the next eight years. “She was the best boss ever. I worked with her, making her signature cheeseburgers and other menu favorites,” shared Suzzette, adding, “After working with Sheena, I went to Coral Sands and worked there as a chef for a few years. Then one year, I worked with both Coral Sands and Valentines, once again after its’ rebuild and I liked Valentines better. So, I went to Valentines as a chef for four years.” After her second stint at Valentines, Suzette then worked with Briland on the Go, again as a chef in the kitchen for one year and a bit, until November 2017.

Following this, she worked at Lady D’s in Lower Bogue for several months where she said she received her wakeup call to go into business for herself. She shared, “Uncomfortableness, just pushed me. It was time to go out on my own let me do this for myself… A relative of mine was killed in the Labour Day march earlier this year (2018), and I told the proprietor that I needed to attend their funeral service, and the proprietor refused to allow me the time off to go - so I was like, ‘Okay, that’s it. I need to do my own thing. Move when I want to move.’ So, I decided then

to put in for my licenses and start making a move to branching out on my own.” During August of 2018, Suzzette, became an approved lunch vendor for North Eleuthera High School and plans to expand into private catering once her business license in completed.

As a chef, Suzette said she prefers classic Bahamian dishes, and focuses on those in her current enterprise. “I prefer our dishes like macaroni and peas n’ rice and crab n’ rice, like that. I can do a number of international dishes, many of which I learned while on the job at places like Valentines, but I love my Bahamian food - the cracked conch and the grouper fingers - that’s what I serve from home now when I prepare the lunches. I would do a special, but my snacks would be things like lobster fingers, grouper fingers, and cracked conch.”

Suzette and her husband, formally separated in 2006.

Life Change…

In February of 2012, Suzzette, while doing a self-examination, discovered a lump in one of her breasts. She says she gave it about two weeks, and when it did not go away, she went to the local clinic to have a

nurse examine her. The nurse did so, and then referred her to the Fourth Terrace Diagnostic Center in Nassau, where she dealt with Dr. Elizabeth Darville. Since she said she had had a negative mammogram during the previous November of 2011, an ultrasound was done, which revealed a 9cm lump. A biopsy was scheduled, which she said Dr. Darville generously allowed her to pay just a portion and the balance later (afContinued On Page 9

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An Eleutheran Profile Continued from pg. 8 ter results). Following the biopsy, she got the call from the oncologist who confirmed that her lump was indeed cancerous. In that moment, Suzzette shared that she was in such shock, she just said okay, as she was told to come for a visit immediately to discuss the next steps.

She was given the option to have one breast removed, and further tests to monitor the other breast. However, being aware of cancer cases on both sides of her family, Suzzette took the brave decision to have both breasts removed, in a double mastectomy to give herself the best fighting chance to beat the disease. In March of 2012, she had the operation done, followed by four rounds of chemotherapy. She says her hair fell out and she lost a toenail along with her sense of taste for a short time, but was blessed to not have too many more of the normal side effects of the treatment.

The following year, in 2013, Suzzette also opted to have a hysterectomy done to pre-empt getting cancer symptoms in that area, which she was told was a high risk for her as well. Each year since then, she has taken the precaution of having a PET/CT scan done in Florida to confirm her body has no return of cancer, and in 2017, she was formally discharged from the oncology program at the hospital in New Providence, having shown no signs of cancer for five years.

Choosing Her Path…

Suzette shared that she was in a relationship with another man from Lower Bogue for ten years after her formal separation, who was with her throughout her struggle with breast cancer she shared, saying, he was even better than a husband for the most part, “He stayed with me, and stuck with me, and helped me in every way”. However, when she rededicated her life to Christ in 2017 - and broached the question of marriage, he admitted that he was not willing to take that step. She decided to leave that relationship, which she felt was a stumbling block in her walk with God, and chose a new path. “We are still friends, and are still there for each other, but I’ve changed my life, and I’m a Christian now, so I told him that’s it.” Suzzette, now serves on the Usher board, and the hospitality team at Gateway Kingdom Ministries.

Suzette shared that since winning her initial battle with cancer, she has been actively sharing her testimony of hope, and as a result of her experience with breast cancer, where she experienced the support of the Eleuthera Cancer Society, she has chosen to move forward as an example and testimony to other women, facing the challenge. “I’ve been going to congregations, where I’ve told my story to other ladies, trying to help them to understand that it’s

Above: Suzzette, as she posed and twirled during a photoshoot to highlight her story of survival and courage during breast cancer awareness month in October 2018.

okay to get their bodies checked. It’s okay to know your body. You need to eat healthily and to lose the weight. I encourage them not to play around with their health and to get themselves checked out. I also let them know that cancer does not always spell death, and that’s my main message that not everyone who is diagnosed with cancer, dies of cancer. I also try to let men know too - encouraging wives to tell their husbands and sons - that as long as you have breasts, you can have breast cancer.

Two weeks ago, I was in Rock Sound at Preston Albury High School, and did a session with them. I go wherever and whenever called. I’m willing to go to whoever it is to let them know my story, because it can help somebody else in the process.”

Suzzette, earlier in 2018 was also inducted as the Vice President of the Eleuthera Cancer Society, and has recently assumed the leadership role with the cancer support group - Sisterhood of Survivors (SOS).

The group she said has an active core of about 15 members, with a number of other women survivors on the island that they

reach out to as well. She further explained, “Sisterhood of Survivors is a group of cancer survivors on Eleuthera, first led by Maisie Thompson, as an initiative of One Eleuthera’s breast cancer outreach program in partnership with the Eleuthera Cancer Society.” The non-profit group she said is raising funds and soliciting donations for their support activities throughout the year - with a bank account recently opened at the Credit Union in Rock Sound for that purpose. Sadly, Suzzette added, that SOS had lost four sisters during the past two years, including, Natalie Petty, Nicole Lewis, Dell Thompson, and Patsy Gomez.

Another issue Suzzette pointed out as she highlighted some of the needs of the SOS group, was the lack of nurses on the island who were experienced with flushing port-a-caths - a process that had to be done monthly for all chemotherapy cancer patients who had not had their ports surgically removed as yet. Just one nurse, Melanie Saunders, based at the Harbour Island Clinic, she said, currently performed this vital service. Five years after her rounds

of chemotherapy, Suzzette still deals with her port having to be flushed monthly, and now that she has been discharged from the oncology progam, hopes to have her port surgically removed some time in the not too distant future.

When asked what advice she had for women newly diagnosed with cancer, Suzzette, who has lost 43 pounds during the past several months, since beginning a nutritional therapy program, answered, “The first thing I would tell them is to look at me.

If God can do it for me, He can do it for you. Cancer is not a death sentence. There is life after cancer.”

“This is my thing now. This is where my destiny lies, and I’ve got to do this,” declared Suzzette, about her current push to share her experience, and leading the support of others going through what she did.

“Where there is life, there is hope, so, it’s a matter of continuing to reach out, and that’s what I do.”

Local EleutheraNews Inaugural BCMC Lay Preachers Honouree Weekend Celebrated 10

Oct/Nov 2018

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press release

September 29th – 30th, 2018 was a celebratory weekend for the Lay Preachers of the Bahamas Conference of the Methodist Church (BCMC) - Central Eleuthera Region. For the very first time, Lay Preachers were honoured for their long-standing service to the church.

On Saturday, September 29th at Unique Village Hotel and Restaurant, a Gala Recognition Banquet under the patronage of the Rev. L. Carla Culmer, President of BCMC, was held.

The following lay preachers were honoured for over 25 years of service; Mr. Freddie Ferguson & Mr. Warren Johnson of James’ Cistern, Mr. Martin Gaitor of Governor’s Harbour and Mr, Granville Bethel of Palmetto Point.

Mr. Michael Johnson of Gregory Town, Ms. Emily Petty of Governor’s Harbour, Mr. Joshua Culmer and Mr. Kingsley Sands of Palmetto Point, all received special recognition for giving over 40 years of service as lay preachers. Key note speaker during the Gala Banquet was Rev. Henry Knowles, Pastor of BCMC, North Eleuthera Region.

On Sunday, September 30th at 3:30pm in the afternoon at Wesley Methodist Church on Cupid’s Cay, in Governor’s Harbour, the weekend culminated

with the Lay Preacher’s Annual Recognition Service, where President Rev. L. Carla Culmer was the main speaker, with the theme, “Servants of God, Answering His Call with Faithfulness and Dedication.”

This recognition of lay preachers’ weekend event was coordinated by the five churches of the BCMC, Central Eleuthera Region - from Palmetto Point

to Gregory Town, and the Lay Preacher’s Association CER under the leadership of president Rosemary E. Thompson.

In attendance were the Deacons/Pastors for the Region, Deacon Elmena Bethell, Deacon Audrea Scavella, Deacon Roderick Pinder and Deacon Colin Moss, as well as members of the church, family, community churches, friends and their guests.

Above: Mrs. Vernita Bethel -Regional Lay Moderator, Mr. Michael Johnson, Ms. Emily Petty, Mr. Joshua Culmer, Rev. Carla CulmerPresident BCMC, Mr. Warren Johnson, Mr. Granville Bethel, Mrs. Rosemary ThompsonPresident LPA, Mr. Freddie Ferguson and Mr. Martin Gaitor.

Immigration sweeps

to increase with new manpower and equipment

Immigration in Eleuthera ramped up surveillance activities since receiving a significant increase in capacity in both personnel and vehicles during the months of August and September. A surveillance exercise carried out on Thursday, October 18th in Central Eleuthera by Immigration Officers, from Gregory Town to Savannah Sound, resulted in another six illegal immigrants being taken into custody. The six illegal immigrants, all adult men, were transported to New Providence during the afternoon on Friday,

October 19th.

Chief Immigration Officer for the Eleuthera District, Mrs. Shemah Darling, commented that similar exercises would now be an ongoing activity, as a result of the recent alleviation of the vehicle and personnel shortage in Eleuthera.

As reported in the September 2018 issue of The Eleutheran Newspaper, six new vehicles were added to the Department’s fleet of three,

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Local “Plus”

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US Small Plane destined for Eleuthera disappears off South Carolina

A small civilian plane en-route to Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera from the Robert F. Swinnie Airport in Andrews, South Carolina was reported to have vanished from radar, shortly before noon, on Thursday, October 25th, 2018, off the coast of South Carolina.

US Coast Guard (USCG) officials, on Sunday, October 28th, announced that the search for the downed plane, approximately 110 miles east of Charleston had been suspended after having searched 3,516 square miles of ocean over the course of 76 hours, with two USCG aircraft and four seacraft involved in the search.

“It is with a heavy heart that we suspend our search for the missing aircraft and its five passengers,” said Capt. John Reed, Commander, Sector Charleston. “I have spoken with the family of those that were on this plane and extend my deepest sympathies to them and all those who have been hit by this tragic loss at sea.”

The identities of the five people who were reported to have been on board the aircraft when it disappeared

have not been officially released, however southstrandnews.com reported multiple posts on social media having identified some of the passengers as being from the local Andrews area, including Ervin and Priscilla Lambert and a third person identified as Jamie Mitchum.

The Jacksonville Air Route Traffic Control Center was reported to have received a report from the aircraft of an in-flight emergency and then lost contact on radar. According to flightaware.com the plane took off from Andrews at 10:47 a.m bound for Governor’s Harbour Airport. At 11:18 a.m. the Piper PA-31T plane, tail number N555PM, flying above 23,000 feet, was diverted to Charleston and then was lost on radar.

Public records show the eightseater turbo-prop plane, built in 1976, belonged to the Bulldog Flying Club, registered in Wilmington, Delaware.

ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS Continued from pg. 10 including two Kia Sportages, two Nissan Versas, one Ford F-150, as well as a bus.

Arriving just days before an illegal boat landing during the latter half of September, the new vehicles were said to have been instrumental in the ensuing search, where forty-three (43) illegal immigrants were taken into custody and later transported to New Providence.

During August, six new personnel were also added to the team, with three new staff added in Rock Sound, one person joined the team in Governor’s Harbour, and two new officers joined the team in North Eleuthera. The new additions brought the compliment of Immigration Officers within the Eleuthera District to 15 staff members.

Illegal migrants awaiting transport to New Providence.

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FARMERS Continued from pg. 7

hotels, and soon to cruise ships.

“What would be wonderful is if we could put the buyers in the same room as representatives of the producers (buyers are not interested in sitting down with 50 or 100 producers. They are interested in sitting down with representatives of those producers who could provide product of the quantity, quality, and on the timeline they need at a price that makes sense). Cooperatives have the ability to bring all of those factors together.”

Further explaining his position on cooperatives, Pintard expounded, “It is crucial for farmers to form cooperatives, so, they can control the distribution of products.

We believe in public/private partnerships and privatization as well, so, I think the whole distribution system is better managed outside of the government structure or certainly in tandem with government (that’s the Packing Houses, things like the Farmer’s Market, the Feed Mill). All of those are entities we believe a commercial enterprise or a successful, well organized cooperative with some resources, are able to execute. Our role though BAIC in particular is to prepare farmers to function as business people. If you are a part of a cooperative, you may not be the person doing the business transactions for the cooperative - you may be the grower, but the business knowledge is resident within that cooperative in some other members, who may not be on the grower side, but may be administrating the business function of that cooperative. So, we wish to put farmers in the position of being entrepreneurs.”

A key takeaway from the meeting was the theme that government intended to be facilitators, and aimed to extract itself from the business end of farming.

During the question and answer session following Minister Pintard’s presentation, farmers took the opportunity to voice a number of issues and challenges faced, including the perceived lack of youth opportunities in the agricultural field, the need for increased or more inclusive concessions, including heavy equipment for land clearing, as well as the availability of seedlings, livestock rearing challenges, as well as the very real issue of the raccoon infestation in many parts of the island - destroying crops and the need for an aggressive approach to ridding the island of them.

Commenting on his takeaway from the meeting with the Eleuthera farmers, Pintard shared, “The commonality of the challenges that farmers are facing throughout the Bahamas, that was absolutely clear - The need for mechanization, that is, heavy equipment to both assist them with clearing the land and soil preparation; secondly, the scarcity of funding that is probably the number one inhibitor for agriculture growth. The third is labour - there is a scarcity of labour. A lot of Bahamian young people in particular have very little interest in agriculture particularly the farm clearing, maintenance component of it. Harvesting is a little dif-

ferent. The scarcity of feed for livestock, and the inconsistency which they are able to get it at a price point which makes sense for them.

“A big one as well is the challenges in getting to market - how do we get our stuff to market. Clearly, slow pay of government (with the packing houses), the ceiling on how much you are paid - while that money is helpful, sometimes It’s late and often times it’s not enough. So how do we empower farmers to know the government is only one vehicle through which they can get to market. So, they find other ways, with our help, to get to market to fetch the price which makes sense for them and their families.”

The team from the Ministry was also interested in seeing a number of the farms on the island during the visit, so they could have firsthand experience, in terms of talking with the owners to understand what their unique challenges were and how they might assist, said Minister Pintard.

He added that it was also important for the team to look at the inventory of assets held by the government through the Ministry of Agriculture and its statutory bodies in Eleuthera.

To match the changes in the direction of the role of the Ministry, Minister Pintard said that his administration team was also working to upgrade the level of service offered across the departments falling under his purview on the island, “Very importantly, we wanted to meet with the staff to make it very clear that we believe their welfare is important, because, if the internal customer is happy and fulfilled in what they are doing, and with the environment within which they work - they are in a better position to serve their customers.

A major thing for a number of government ministries and certainly one that this Ministry must address is the issue of persons working in silos - to make sure that we are able to seamlessly work across departments, so we can serve the public, who need information and they need it on a timely basis - they need service, and they need that service in real time, because their livelihoods depend on it.

“We are on salary, while many of the persons we service are challenged; not all of them are doing exceptionally well.

Some of them are unemployed and they see the arena that we are in as a vehicle for their personal empowerment. We have an obligation to do everything possible to facilitate that. So, we wanted to meet with the staff to emphasize what the vision is, and the kind of quality customer service we are expecting of all of them - and that they can also place demands on us as the administrators, to provide them with the tools required for them to execute their jobs.”

Departments on Eleuthera which fall within the Ministry, are the Department of Agriculture and Marine Resources, which include the Fisheries offices and Packing Houses, BAMSI offices and BAIC offices.

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Above: Minister Michael Pintard joined by MP for Central and South Eleuthera, Hank Johnson, with a team from the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources address Eleuthera farmers. Below: Farmers from throughout Eleuthera attended the meeting held at Worker’s House..

RBPF Spotlight

During the Month of October, Officers from the Eleuthera Traffic Section paid courtesy calls on Schools throughout the Island. Officers presented Road safety information and provided demonstrations to the excited students.

The Royal Bahamas Police Force Central Eleuthera District salutes P.C. 3409 Cynario Fowler as a rising star in the Division. Constable Fowler joined the Royal Bahamas Police Force in 2009. He is a proficient musician and certified cyclist who has recently commenced duties as one of Eleuthera’s Traffic Officers.

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The Eleutheran | 10/11 2018

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A Story of Survival and Healing

By Claudine McQueen - 2017 Accident Victim

Above: Claudine Mcqueen

November 2nd, 2017 changed my life forever. After getting a call that my grandmother had passed away, I was devastated and immediately felt a void – she was the one person whom I thought got sick and always recovered, who I thought for some reason would always be there, but she was gone, never to return.

I left work at about 5am thinking I had to see her, maybe it was not so or better yet she just needed me, I thought. I had a sleepless week earlier, just making sure that she was ok, being there to feed her and to make sure she was comfortable. So, therefore that

night at work was already a challenge.

While driving home I could remember so many different signs that I should not have driven home that morning, but I ignored them all. I remember passing Rainbow Inn as the rain fell so hard, I rubbed my eyes making sure I didn’t fall asleep while driving. Further up the road, there I was, dipping – eyes nearly closed, but I was still compelled to get home and felt that I could actually make it.

I fell asleep for maybe a split second and there I was horrified as water covered the car, it seemed as if I had plunged into the ocean. Too soon to even think, everything went blank.

I gained consciousness for a few minutes, as the sun beamed in my face, and I remembered trying to move my leg to get out of the car, but was unable to. I tried moving my hands and it seemed as if I was pinned to my car seat. The blood on my face at the time burned my eyes, as I could hear my daughter screaming “Mommy” and also the cries of others. I knew then that there was something wrong, but my whole body was just numbed and at the time I couldn’t quite figure out what

was really going on.

I was in and out of consciousness but one thing I remembered was one of my colleagues taking my hand and saying to me, “We are praying for you”. I didn’t quite grasp what was going on at that point, but everyone seemed so confused, scared and sad during the short periods of time I was awake.

Getting into Nassau after being airlifted I fought to breathe and was yet still not able to feel anything. The doctors at the Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) knew they had to make a speedy decision as to what they needed to do. After taking a number of tests like CT scans and 2 MRI’s, I was diagnosed with a broken neck (my C2 was barely connected to my C3), broken hand, fractured skull and crushed ribs/lungs. I also suffered from severe lacerations about the body.

Decisions had to be made quickly as they realized they didn’t have much time to work with. After discovering first of all that my neck was broken they had to call in a specialist to assess the damage which demanded a Halo that had to be ordered from another country and I’d have to wear it for 3 months.

It was said to me later, by Dr. Lewis, that he had multiple road blocks while trying to get the Halo here from California and

because of bad experiences in the past had lost several patients because of the shipping process. Doctor Lewis shared that he banged the steering wheel of his truck when he didn’t receive the Halo in time then, because he knew he could lose another patient due to negligence and improper shipping procedures. When the Halo finally got to Nassau he was amazed to see I was still alive and did not hesitate to apply it.

The struggle continued day after day in the ICU as the task of breathing on life support seemed to get harder and harder every day. After a while, the doctors were puzzled as to why my breathing levels did not rise over fifty percent. At this point I could see that Dr. Magnus – the chief Neurosurgeon, began to get worried about this and while examining the tubes discovered that it had a hole. He was very disappointed and I could see the look of defeat growing stronger on his face, but being the good doctor that he is, he couldn’t settle. (Keep in mind that during all this I was in and out of comas but for every time I came out, I was alert and prayed inwardly.)

There were persons that came to visit that always prayed and sang songs that would keep God’s presence in the room. I

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Calendar Guide highlights in NOV. 2018 Little Miss Governor’s Harbour Pageant Saturday, November 10th, 2018 Venue: Worker’s House Ballroom Begins at 7pm FLOAT PARADE (Nov. 4th at 4pm from Cupid’s Cay)

Governor’s Harbour Homecoming Mega Fundraiser “It’s Harbour Time” Friday, Nov. 16, 2018 to Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018 Stalls Open: 10am - 3am (Beer Specials - Soccer Tournament 3/3 Basketball Tournament - Dominoes Tournament) Location: Anchor Bay, Governor’s Harbour, Central Eleuthera, Bahamas

Harbour Island’s Fresh Picks Farmers Market & Artisan Showcase to return in November

Fresh Picks Farmers Market & Artisan Showcase at Valentines Resort & Marina on Harbour Island, Bahamas will start again on November 21st for Season 3 after completing its 2nd season with huge success. The 4th of July weekend was its best yet with over 24 vendors! The Fresh Picks Farmers Market will be held at Valentines every Wednesday from 10am to 3pm starting the day before Thanksgiving – just in time to pick up the absolutely freshest ingredients for your holiday dinner. Fresh Picks will continue to showcase the best farmers, chefs and artisans from Eleuthera and Harbour Island. The event has developed into a great happening for attendees to access farm-to-table vegetables, herbs, greens, baked goods and more. Both locals and visitors have come to enjoy this weekly event. The market will run weekly through July 24th, 2019!

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

Service of Re-Dedication of Wesley Methodist Church On Sunday, November 11th, 2018 at 3:30pm.

This service culminates the restoration and renovation of the church building, originally built in 1843, and is being held under the theme “Faithful Service to Our Faithful God” (1 Thessalonians 1:2-10).

The guest preacher is Rev. L. Carla Culmer, President of the Bahamas Conference of the Methodist Church.

NHI To Host Consultations NHI to host Consultations on Proposed Changes to NHI Program in Eleuthera on November 19th – 20th, 2018. Locations and times, to be announced.

Small Business Development Center - Eleuthera Town Meetings

MOT Christmas Craft Show

Holidays and Observance Days: Sunday, November 4th Daylight Saving Time Ends Thursday, November 22nd Thanksgiving Day

Farmer’s Market Location: Tarpum Bay Homecoming Site Hosted by E.M.M.A. Every Saturday - 10am to 3pm October 20th - December 15th, 2018 For more information, Call: Gwendolyn Patram Tel: (242) 554-5307 / 477-2165 Email: emmael1896@gmail.com “Buy It, Make It, Grow It” BUY LOCAL

Saturday, November 24th, 2018 Ministry of Tourism Christmas Craft Show This is an annual event held on the grounds of the Ministry of Tourism, located in the heart of the settlement of Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera. An array of handmade crafts and goods will be available for sale, demonstrations and displays. The Christmas tree lights will be lit in ceremonial fashion after sunset, You won’t want to miss out on this event that will bring in the holiday mood. Event time: 10am -10pm.

For more information please contact the Eleuthera Tourist Office at (242) 332-2145. Email: gjingraham@bahmas.com or dyoung@bahamas.com

PUBLIC NOTICE:

November 13th – 15th, 2018 The Small Business Development Center announced that they will be in Eleuthera for town meetings from November 13th-15th to launch Access Accelerator, SBDC. Locations and times, to be announced.

The General Public is hereby advised of the following:

Music in the Garden

- A Food Handler’s Seminar will be held at the Spanish Wells Clinic on Wednesday, November 7th.

All interested persons must contact the Clinic at 333-4064 to register.

To be hosted by the Cancer Society of Eleuthera at the Cancer Society’s Wellness Center in Palmetto Point on Saturday, December 1st, 2018.

Begins at 6:30pm

- The Mobile Passport Unit will be visiting the Administrator’s Office in Spanish Wells on Monday, November 5th - Tuesday, November 6th. Persons needing an appointment should contact the Administrator’s Office as soon as possible.

CONTACT

The Eleutheran Newspaper at 422-9350 or send email to

services@theeleutheran.com,

to have your community notices and events listed.

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Survival Continued from pg. 13 knew that I only had Him to depend on and at this point I realized He was right there with me. My breathing became a number one priority for Dr. Magnus and his team and so one day they came for their regular visit to analyze the next step and even though it didn’t look good he kept the faith.

While lying there the ventilator was becoming unbearable, but I knew I had to fight. I would wake and be so grateful that I actually saw the next day and even though things had seemed to be going downhill I kept the faith and trusted God’s plans for my life.

Dr. Magnus then determined that they needed to change the tubes because leaving things as is, I could develop a severe case of pneumonia and die, even though he knew removing the tubes could result in the same thing - it was his only hope of me living. Lying there with that “please help me” look on my face, I could feel the negative energy but doubt did not set in for one minute. They began the master plan and while disconnecting the ventilator the feeling of not being able to breathe was the scariest thing I have ever experienced in my whole entire life. I literally felt like a fish out of water and while gasping for air I then braced myself and I thought ‘ok God, I’m ready’. I began to relax my body and just let it go as my eyes closed and everything faded away. Somehow, I could hear the heart monitor flat lining which was so traumatizing, I knew I was gone.

I’m not sure how long it was, but at this time my spirit left my body. I could literally look at the doctors working on my body, and a little confused, I thought to myself, ‘What’s going on’? I didn’t

hesitate to stay there. I immediately appeared to my kids and I could see that they were happy and at that point I realized that they couldn’t see me and I couldn’t even feel them. My baby, who was than 6 months at the time, was asleep and seemed to be resting so peacefully. I remember seeing my husband, sitting and crying and everyone was telling him, it will be ok. As my spirit floated through the air I could hear the sound of a choir singing, it was the most beautiful music I’ve ever heard. I began to see friends and relatives but was not able to stay in one area as my soul appeared to be floating through the air. Everything was so perfect, beautiful skies and as I looked down the grass was so healthy and green. As my spirit made an ascension towards the heavens it was like this very bright light was pulling me towards it. It streamed down and was almost unbearable to see. The skies were so beautiful and the streaming light got brighter and brighter as I got closer. All I could remember thinking was, ‘my children’, ‘my children’. This carried on for some time as I saw a number of other things, but just before I got to the center of the light, I heard a loud voice say, “I’m not done with you just yet”, and I heard that twice. Thereafter everything went dark and I’m not sure for how long I was out, but when I regained consciousness I felt whole. I realized that it was only God that had saved me.

I was in ICU for a total of 4 weeks and as I got better, another ward for just 2 weeks. I had to learn to walk all over again which was very challenging, but God made that possible. I had to do 2 weeks of therapy which helped me to use my right hand again and also to be able to use my neck effectively.

After leaving the hospital I was excited that I’d actually see my kids again and couldn’t wait to spend Christmas with them. Getting home to settle

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in for the night I couldn’t wait to first remove the compressor socks that I wore. When my Mom took them off she discovered that my foot was actually tagged, as if I was prepared for the morgue and that part still remains a mystery.

I was told that I had flat lined through the whole ordeal about ten times. But, because I had lived a life of prayer and worship, it was all I could do inwardly. I knew that the world was praying for me and every one confirmed that when I got back. I would have dreams about everyone praying.

I was Halo free February

12th of this year and thereafter my whole body began to heal. I returned to work in May and effective on the job with no side effects.

One year later I’m whole and even though the doctor promised some difficulties within this one year, I have never experienced pains or sleepless nights since.

I am completely healed and still celebrating the miraculous move of God over my life. I have to let the world know that Jesus healed me and that he’s there to heal them too. I was presumed dead but, I’m yet alive.

National

Online at www.EleutheraNews.com

The Eleutheran | 10/11 2018

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USD106.5 million programme of assistance announced for The Bahamas by CDB October 29, 2018, BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has announced a USD106.5 million (mn) programme of assistance for The Bahamas, over the period 2018-2022. The programme is outlined in a new Country Strategy Paper for the country, which was approved by CDB’s Board of Directors on October 25.

“This Strategy has been designed in collaboration with the Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, and aims to help the country achieve its mediumterm development objectives.

As such, we focus on areas that are considered critical to inclusive growth, such as the provision of quality climate resilient infrastructure, energy efficiency and renewable energy, as well as governance and human capital improvement,” said Dr. Justin Ram, Director, Economics, CDB.

The Strategy is built around three key pillars.

1. Environmental Protection and Infrastructure Enhancement CDB-supported interventions will build economic resilience to weather-related shocks, with the aim of minimising post-disaster spending and maintaining macroeconomic stability in the event of a natural disaster. In addition, the Bank will focus on projects that increase energy efficiency and renewable energy, to improve publicsector efficiency.

2. Inclusive Social Development Under this pillar, CDB will support interventions that target the creation of a certified, skilled and employable workforce. Projects will complement existing activities, and provide solutions to create an inclusive and effective education system, which responds to the learn-

ing needs of all citizens.

3. Improved Governance and Productivity CDB support will focus on reform in areas such as public policy capacity and project implementation capacity.

Additional interventions will address skills shortages, and improved access to finance for MSMEs, in order to improve productivity and competitiveness.

Gender equality, energy security and citizen security will also be mainstreamed across all CDB interventions during the strategy implementation period.

This Country Strategy follows the previous Strategy for the period 2013-2017, which had a resource envelope of USD80.7 mn. Under this new programme of assistance, individual projects which

align with the Strategy will be presented to the Bank’s Board of Directors for approval.

Once approved, funds will be disbursed on completion of specific conditions.

The proposed Strategy is aligned with CDB’s strategic objectives of supporting inclusive and sustainable growth and development, and promoting good governance.

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Space Challenges Finally Alleviated At NEHS With the

Opening Of New Classroom Block

BY The eleutheran news team

Lower Bogue - With a school population growth of nearly 20% over the past three years, administrators and staff at the North Eleuthera High School (NEHS) have had to be very creative in dealing with their unique space challenges, especially in light of the major physical plant loss of an entire classroom block back in March of 2013 due to fire. A new classroom block at NEHS, which began construction during October of 2015 to replace the building destroyed by fire, was finally handed over to Principal at the school, Mr. Michael Culmer, during the first day of classes in September beginning the 2018/2019 school year on a much brighter note.

“We are thrilled and very appreciative of the fact that we now have the new building, and we are trying to ensure that we can utilize it to its’ maximum,” said Principal Culmer.

The building, which is now occupied by both students and teachers has a few needed final touches, he described, “We are now about 90% functional. We are just waiting for some additional amenities, some things that would make us a little more comfortable within the building... Teacher’s desks and chairs are in.

We also have temporary boards that are in.

We are just waiting on the installation of some

more cupboard spaces - those are some of the little things that would make the space ready for full use.

“We have a computer lab downstairs.

There is a science lab, along with four bathrooms - two male and two female. There are two administrative blocks, along with Religious Studies, Social Studies and History rooms, a staff room, and a new Tuck shop. It adds quite a bit of space to the campus, and believe it or not, we’ve grown and are still growing. Last year we were in the 230’s in terms of student population, and this year we are up into the 250’s, with two new students having joined us, just last week - and several more expected as the season begins in Harbour Island. So, each year we are growing.”

With growth, resources at the school continue to be a challenge, however, Mr. Culmer took a positive approach, explaining, “We are trying our best with the resources that we have available to us. Whatever our resource challenges are, we are still mandated to be ‘top performing’, and that’s not just with the expectation of the students, but also with the level of work put in by teachers. I’m not one to complain, as that same energy can be better spent trying to find solutions.”

Above: Awards Assembly on the courtyard in front of the new classroom block at NEHS.

Above: Students all smiles on campus at the North Eleuthera High School.

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| 10/11 2018

Dedicated to the cause: Small energized group up early for Annual “Walk For A Cure”

BY The eleutheran news team A dedicated group of twenty-five walkers were up during the early hours on Saturday morning, October 27th for the Cancer Society’s ‘Walk For A Cure’ event - their signature fundraiser during the month of October which highlights public awareness of breast cancer in particular. Participants met in front of the CIBC/FCIB building in the center of Governor’s Harbour shortly after 6am for a session of stretching and warming up, before heading out at 6:30am sharp for the 4 mile trek to the Cancer Society’s Wellness Center in Palmetto Point, where a variety of hot souses, and fresh fruit choices awaited the successful finishers.

Retired Head Nurse and Cancer Society President, Mrs. Sherrin Cooper, commented following the walk, “I think the event went well. With 25 walkers and 37 registrants, we’ve had both more and less participants in the past, so I think we did pretty well. We will continue to promote it more as we go forward, so even more people come out, get involved, and better understand why we do what we do.”

Explaining the dedication and passion behind their drive to help, Mrs. Cooper shared, “There are so many people on the island affected by cancer, and here at the Cancer Society, since I’ve been president,

which is about five months now, we have had people coming in or calling almost daily for assistance. Some are on treatments and have to travel in to Nassau. Some have just been diagnosed and are looking for advice, and because we are a non-profit and depend on contributions and donations - we want to assist as many people as possible, but it means that we need to have funds coming.

So thirty-seven people registering for the Walk, yes, it is a help - and I’m sure it will help and assist several people to be able to go into Nassau for treatment.”

She also highlighted that the public was encouraged to give at any time throughout the year, not just during fundraisers, “We welcome donations at any time for the ongoing work. So, people wanting to give can call us here at the Eleuthera Cancer Society Wellness Center in Palmetto Point at 3321804. We are open daily. Or they can give myself or any of the board members a call.

The new boards members, inducted in May 2018, include; Sherrin Cooper, President; Suzette Kemp, Vice President; Karen Crean, Secretary; Sue Culmer, Treasurer; Cindy Pinder, Assistant Treasurer; Juanita Pinder, Fundraising Director; and Jacqueline Gibson, Advisor. Chinnici Johnson continues as the Administrator for the Cancer Society of Eleuthera.

Above and below: Committed community members take part in the Eleuthera Cancer Society ‘Walk For A Cure’ annual fundraiser.

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Celebrate this

NEHS Summer Term 2018 Awardees Recognized and New Student Leaders Installed On Monday, October 22nd, 2018, North Eleuthera High School (NEHS) recognized their top performing students during the 2017/2018 school year and pinned their student leaders for the new school year at an awards and prefect installation ceremony held at the school grounds on the courtyard facing the newly opened school block, which began at 9:30am, under the theme, “Youth: Forefront of Change.”

Special Guest Speaker on Monday morning was Pastor Martin Kemp, and 27 students at NEHS were recognized for achieving a 3.0 or above grade point average, with three (3) of those students achieving the Principal’s List - which recognizes students with a 3.5 grade point average or higher.

The school courtyard, in addition to students, hosted a number of proud parents and other members of the North Eleuthera community who came out to support the achieving honourees.

NORTH ELEUTHERA HIGH SCHOOL Summer Term 2018 HONOUR ROLL PRINCIPAL’S LIST (3.5 GPA and Above) Alexandria Culmer, Cilnus Meteze, and Kyle Collins.

Pictured: NEHS students who attained an Honour Roll and Principal’s List grade point average standard

for the Summer Term 2018, stand proudly with their Principal, Mr. Michael Culmer (front row far left).

HONOUR ROLL Students (3.0 GPA and Above) Mark Bullard, Jodley Francique, Jakire Stubbs, Layla Isaacs, Lauryn McSweeney, Ricardo Joseph, Sherlistina Denave, Kendal Gibson, Don Johnson, Arianna Dean, Rodgeno Albury, Damari Johnson, Paulsen Paul, Charzia Algreen, Ronisha Petit-Homme, Breonna Strachan, Christianna Wallace, Ernie Kelly, Wendez Bullard, Brivian Johnson, Kelly-Ann Mckenzie, Mona Toussaint, Candice McDonald, and Rochelle Tador.

SCHOOL Prefects Senior Prefects: Ernie Kelly, Jerold Kelly, Merlanda Denave, Wendez Bullard, Yasmeen Munroe, and Celeste Pinder.

Prefects: Phillip Carusi, Sanchez Albury, Collen Wood, Damari Johnson, Kye Collins, Christianna Wallace, Sierra Farrington, Ashanti Hudson, Ronisha Petit-Homme, Breonna Strachan, Mikayla Carey, Kelly-Ann McKenzie, Brivian Johnson, Mona Toussaint, Natalie Newbold, Warrae Hudson, and Julisa Johnson.

Pictured: NEHS students chosen as student leaders for the 2018/2019 school year, stand with Principal, Mr. Michael Culmer.

Local

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A rare opportunity for Eleuthera students in Maritime Canada - a visit from the ‘local’ Bahamas High Commissioner to Canada.

BY The eleutheran news team

Above: Safyha Bryan speaking with His Exellency Mr. Alvin Smith.

Former member of parliament for North Eleuthera who also served as Speaker in the House of Assembly, His Excellency Mr. Alvin Smith, in his current position as Bahamas High Commissioner to Canada, on October 19th, 2018, after trips to several other University campuses throughout Nova Scotia, Canada, took time to visit with Bahamian students at Acadia University, which has among the student body, students from Eleuthera.

During the visit, University officials and staff members boasted about their strong history with the Bahamas, their appreciation for the bond they have with Bahamian students and highlighted that after

graduation, that bond simply continues to grow.

His Excellency Mr. Alvin Smith took the time to socialize with the big contingent of Bahamian students present at Acadia, encouraging them to soak in the moment, learn all they could, and to know that the Bahamas could use all of their expertise in the future.

Joevante Fox, an Eleuthera student currently attending Acadia University, commented on the High Commissioner’s presence, saying, “It is inspiring to see someone from your hometown (His Excellency, Mr. Alvin Smith originally hails from Hatchet Bay, Eleuthera) in a great position in life, and it was a bless-

ing to hear motivational words from him as I continue to walk down my own path. I am grateful for the visit and ready to continue moving forward.”

Safyha Bryan, also a student attending Acadia University, from Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, described the event as being “quite inspirational” and went on to say, “It allowed us all to realize that we are truly blessed with an amazing opportunity that we should cherish. It was a proud moment to see someone from back home representing us on such a platform, and it warmed my heart to see His Excellency Mr. Alvin Smith taking time to meet with us.”

Above: Joevante Fox with His Exellency Mr. Alvin Smith.

Vessel runs into reef with 20 people onboard off Spanish Wells.

According to police reports, officers at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station at about 8:15pm on the 6.10.18 were alerted to a vessel with passengers in trouble, when a male aboard the boat called and reported that he was on board a vessel with 15 to 20 people onboard and that it was stranded up on a reef near the southern channel entrance to Spanish Wells.

He also reported that there were several people injured and requested police action.

However, when reportedly the Chief Counselor for Spanish Wells made contact with the vessel via VHF radio he was informed that there were a total of twenty people on board the vessel and they reported no injuries or anyone in need of medical attention.

Officers responded to the scene, assisted by local fisherman, located at the mouth sound for Spanish Wells where the vessel was moored upon rocks and unable to move. The captain, an adult male of New Providence stated that it was human error in the trajectory coming through the Harbour which caused him to run on the rocks.

All passengers were removed from the vessel and transported to Gene’s Bay dock.

The distressed vessel was secured with two anchors, one at the bow and the other at the stern to prevent movement until it could be moved on.

Local

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National political figure, Bradley Roberts, Passes Away, at 74 (Nassau, Bahamas) Bradley Bernard Emmanuel Roberts SC, JP, a businessman and a former National Chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party, passed away on Thursday afternoon, October 25th, 2018 at the age of 74.

Prime Minister Hubert Minnis released a statement later that same evening, expressing his condolences to the family of Mr. Bradley Roberts, on his sudden passing. (See his biography and full article online, visit - Eleutheranews.com/?p= 17768)

| 10/11 2018

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Island “Buzz”

Oct/Nov 2018

Scary Good Fun At The Levy Spooktacular

BY The eleutheran news team

The pavilion at the heart of the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, was bursting with children of all ages and sizes in any number of costumed ensembles, from the petrifying to the pretty, on Saturday evening, October 27th, 2018, all out to celebrate Spooktacular 2018, held by the Rotaract Club of Eleuthera in partnership with the Levy Preserve, which holds as a key aim Outreach to and education of the Eleuthera public.

The night was filled with delicious treats, scary adventure, and a colourfully loud Spooktacular fashion faceoff.

Following a veritably ear-bursting costume competition, where the crowd, heavily weighted with kids and young teens, were asked to choose a winner via the loudest mass of screams, Heidi Johnson, Manager at the Preserve, commented that they were already looking ahead to 2019, and anticipated a bigger and better event, with even more fear factor. Particular emphasis, she said, was placed on the coordination and timing with the signature Spooktacular Trail, “We wanted to make sure that everybody got a chance to experience it, and that things ran as smoothly as possible.

“We expect now that we are going to have the support of the community, which is what we want, so we just need to take it upon ourselves to make sure that the event next year is bigger and better than the previous. What was also good was the help of our partners, Rotaract, The Island School and our staff here at the Levy Preserve, who came together and made sure the kids had the most fun. So we are just grateful for the support and that it was a success again this year,” said Heidi.

Visit www.eleutheranews.com for more photos

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2018

Island “Buzz”

Online at www.EleutheraNews.com

Photos: http://eleutheranews.com/?p=17790

| 10/11 2018

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ESA Hosts Emily Petty Inaugural PRIMARY Softball Tourney

BY The eleutheran news team

Above: ESA president, Johnny Butler presenting Ms. Emily Petty, with a plaque in honour of her appointment as patroness of the tournament.

On Saturday, October 27th, 2018, the Eleuthera Softball Association hosted the first-ever Emily Petty Primary School Softball Invitational Tournament, where primary schools from James’ Cistern to Wemyss Bight were expected to compete in a full roster of games. Main organizer and former Principal, Mr. Johnny Butler commented that spotty weather on Friday, as well as other challenges may have contributed to many of the schools not taking part as planned.

The decision to play even if only two schools were able to come had been made, and with Tarpum Bay primary, and Green Castle primary arriving at the Twin City Arena in Palmetto Point on Saturday morning, the tourney was on.

Central Eleuthera High School also took part with two internal teams in both a boys and girls division playing exhibition matches during the afternoon on Saturday.

Patroness, Ms. Emily Petty, was out at the park all day, enjoying the games. She expressed that she was absolutely delighted to have had the new tournament named in her hon-

our. Ms. Petty was an avid softball player in her day, starting out with the Rolle’s Auto Parts team in the late 1970’s, then the Windermere Wonders in the early 1980’s, which won the Eleuthera Women’s Softball Championships for many years. She became known for her prowess as a pitcher at the time, and was chosen to travel to Jamaica to play with the National Softball Team.

“I’m just ecstatic that the ESA chose to do this at this time, and I’m here to watch, and I’m very impressed with the level of play by the primary school teams, because it means that the coaches have taught them the skills, and they have executed excellently on the field today.

I want to say thanks to the principals, coaches, parents, and the ESA for allowing this tournament to be held in my honour. I look forward to next year being bigger, better and even more explosive,” smiled Ms. Petty.

Between Tarpum Bay primary and Green Castle primary, Tarpum Bay emerged as the overall winner on the day, after a series of morning games.

Above: Central Eleuthera High School students happy to take part in the tourney dedicated to Ms. Petty.

Above: Patroness, Emily Petty proudly stands center, flanked by the competing teams from Tarpum Bay primary and Green Castle primary.

Perspective

Online at www.EleutheraNews.com

The Eleutheran | 10/11 2018

how to Make A Quick Sale Ask your BREA agent about any incentives you can offer.

Perhaps you can contribute more in closing costs or offer some extra furnishings or a piece of art work, for example.

We’ve had clients who have included a run-about boat, a golf cart and even an antique car in the sale. It can help to be creative. Many years ago a friend had a house for sale in Glengarriff Gardens and offered 4 goldfish at $50,000 each and said he would throw in the house for free. A joke that caught everyone’s attention.

If you have a strong need to sell quickly, any or all of these suggestions will make your home stand out above the competition.

By Mike Lightbourn

If you’re under pressure to sell your home quickly, you may have to bite the bullet and take some dramatic steps to increase the chances.

Consider the following proven suggestions to produce a quicker sale.

Price the home ten to fifteen percent below your competition.

All other things being equal, your home will readily appear as the best value.

Also consider the price “range” your home will fall into and make sure you don’t squeeze out potential homebuyers by refusing to adjust your price by a few thousand dollars.

For example, a $399,000 home will appear more attractive than a $410,000 home.

By refusing to offer to sell at $399,000, you are excluding an entire category of purchasers who have qualified for a loan under $400,000.

REMEMBER: If you want to sell, your property must be priced right.

OLD MEETS NEW How about this?

A tiny old mountain village in Switzerland is to be turned into a “scattered hotel.”

Here’s what this means: Guestrooms will be housed in existing homes spread across the village in the Verzasca valley and the surrounding countryside.

The hotel will operate under a single management structure with amenities housed in common areas in the village.

The picturesque cluster of homes was part of a robust farming community.

However, the population of about 300 has dwindled to just 12 older residents and the only economic activity in the town is the local restaurant.

A local foundation came up with

the innovative approach to save the village, borrowing the idea from a successful model in Italy where several “widespread” or “scattered” hotels can be found.

The face of real estate has changed dramatically in recent years with many people, including Bahamians, repurposing their homes to take advantage of the burgeoning shortterm vacation market.

The Central Bank reports that Airbnb rentals increased in the Bahamas by 41 percent in August yearover year.

More short term rental properties are going on the market every year with Exuma, Abaco and Eleuthera recording significant increases in inventory.

(Exuma recorded the highest inventory increase. Oh, those swimming pigs!)

It just goes to show you, real estate remains a solid investment in changing times.

Questions or comments?

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

27

28

Perspective

Oct/Nov 2018

OP-ED

By Sir Ronald Sanders www.sirronaldsanders.com

The coming OECD black list other words, the eight CARICOM countries are all in this together, along with twelve other jurisdictions that have been named specifically.

By Sir Ronald Sanders (The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States and the Organisation of American States. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies at the University of London and Massey College in the University of Toronto. The views expressed are his own) Reports are wrong in stating that eight Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries are on a ‘black list’ recently released by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) over Citizenship by Investment (CBI) and Resident by Investment (RBI) schemes that they operate.

The OECD has not ‘black listed’ these countries – at least not yet.

But the stage has been set for punitive action, unless there is a proactive and unified response by all these countries.

Essentially what the OECD said in its latest resistance to any form of tax competition is: CBI/RBI schemes can be misused to evade tax legitimately due to their countries of tax residence by the beneficiaries of these schemes.

In the statement, issued on 17 October, the OECD makes no distinction between CBI and RBI schemes, contrary to announcements from one Caribbean minister that suggest a differentiation. In

www. EleutheraNews . com

The eight CARICOM countries (in alphabetic order) are: Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St Kitts-Nevis, and St Lucia. They join only two member-states of the European Union (EU) – Malta and Cyprus – even though at least nine other EU countries operate a form of CBI/RBI schemes.

Among the nine EU countries are Britain, Ireland, Italy and Portugal.

No explanation is given for the omission of these 9 EU states from the concerns over CBI/RBI programmes, and none is given for not including the EB-5 programme of the United States or the Quebec Immigrant Investor Programme in Canada.

These omissions apart, at least the EU admits that all of its memberstates “have various incentives in place to attract foreign investment from non-EU nationals” and that “most of them have CBI or RBI schemes (so-called ‘golden passports’ and ‘golden visas’), characterised by the provision of access to residency in exchange for specified investments”.

All of that seemed to be well and good, until two of the smallest jurisdictions in the EU (Cyprus and Malta) and other small nations, such as the eight CARICOM states, joined in the schemes because of economic necessity.

Now, the EU and the OECD (in which the EU plays an influential role) have decided that CBI/RBI programmes pose risks for “corruption, money laundering and tax evasion”.

This bold claim is made even though the countries identified in the OECD October 17 statement have in place strong anti-money laundering regimes, Tax Information Exchange Agreements and

Policy Statement: The Perspective, Conservation Corner,’ Op-ED and Letters section of The Eleutheran newspaper is a medium we provide for writers to express their views and opinions on issues that directly or indirectly affect any part of our society. These views do not in anyway reflect the views of this newspaper. While we aim to publish all letters sent to us, please note The Letter to the Editor section is not a vehicle for people to air personal gri pes against another person and letters may be refused on the basis of ethics, which includes, but is not limited to, personal vendettas or attacks.

Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties, and are implementing both the US Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) and the OECD’s Common Reporting Standards (CRS). FACTA and the CRS require jurisdictions to exchange automatically financial information of foreign persons and companies to other countries in which they are liable for tax.

The new OECD claim is that “identity cards and other documentation obtained through CBI/RBI schemes can potentially be misused abuse (sic) to misrepresent an individual’s jurisdiction(s) of tax residence and to endanger the proper operation of the CRS due diligence procedures”.

Of course, this claim can be settled easily by a requirement for all jurisdictions, everywhere in the world, to necessitate that account holders or controlling persons declare any residence rights they have in each jurisdiction in which they have it. In this way, submissions would be made to all the jurisdictions of residence of account holders and controlling persons, thus stopping any misrepresentation.

But, that is not the only new claim now being made by the OECD. The Organisation also asserts that “high-risk” CBI/RBI programmes are those which “give a tax payer access to a low personal income tax rate of less than 10% on offshore financial assets and do not require significant physical presence of at least 90 days in the jurisdiction offering the CBI/ RBI scheme”. This latter situation, which the OECD clearly wants terminated, would materially affect CBI/RBI programmes in CARICOM jurisdictions. It effectively dictates what tax rates should be and the conditions, which in their sovereign right, the CBI/RBI jurisdcitions have set.

Given all this, if the CARICOM jurisdictions are to save their CBI/ RBI programmes from decimation, they should form an alliance with the other 12 named jurisdictions to fashion a joint response before the OECD moves to its next step which, undoubtedly, will be a black list that calls for sanctions against them.

None of their interests will be served by any jurisdiction that chooses to enter an individual agreement with the OECD, setting a

precedent which all the others will be obliged to follow.

Once any jurisdiction readily accepts the OECD dictates, unified action is disrupted, and all jurisdictions will be forced to acquiesce.

This disruption of unified action has been the pattern of past responses to the OECD’s so-called ‘rules’. The consequence has been the steady destruction of the financial services sector and an attendant loss of revenues and jobs to the countries The affected jurisdictions should take the OECD at its word that its concern is the misuse of CBI/RBI programmes by beneficiaries to hide their assets and escape reporting under the Common Reporting Standard. As explained earlier in this commentary, that issue could be easily satisfied, and CARICOM countries could collectively offer to do so.

What is more problematic because it invades the sovereign rights of states is the branding of CBI/RBI jurisdictions as “high risk” because they might have a low tax rate and no requirement for physical presence. Indeed, it is eminently arguable that these two claims do not obviate the obligations of the CRS and FACTA to report on the financial assets of account holders or controlling persons.

However, if these are conditions that the OECD implements, the CBI/ RBI programmes in all but powerful countries will be decimated with disastrous effects on their economies.

That is why common cause to confer urgently with the OECD should be a priority of CARICOM countries. The decline of the economies of eight of them will impact the neighbourhood in which the other seven exist. All are involved, and all can be consumed.

Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com 18 October 2018 Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com

Continued On Page 29

Opinion

Online at www.EleutheraNews.com

letter to the editor

Fence it or Lose it (Taking Possession of Vacant Land) Introduction: In the Bahamas, especially on the Family Islands, it has been and continues to be the practice of generations of Bahamians to assert possessory ownership of vacant land by: i. clearing down the land (or a part of it), ii. clearing down the boundary lines, planting fruit trees; and iii. strategically placing on the property “Private Property” signs.

It appears however; these practices are now called into question and are insufficient alone to legally establish possession.

Legal Analysis: On the 15th October 2018, the Privy Council, in the appeal of Bannerman Town, Millars and John Millars Eleuthera Association (Appellant) v. Eleuthera Properties Ltd (Respondent) (Bahamas) [2018] UKPC 27, gave its Ruling.

There was a dispute that existed between Eleuthera Properties Ltd (“EPL”) and the Bannerman Town, Millars and John Millars Eleuthera Association (“the Association”).

Each party to the action was seeking a Certificate of Title pursuant to the Quieting Titles Act. The land in issue was/is a tract comprising some 2,086.24 acres.

The conclusion of the Privy Council is as follows: i. EPL had not proved documentary title; ii. The Association’s claim to possessory title failed; iii. No party was granted a certificate of title.

On the question of possession, the Privy concluded as follows:

* Possession is a legal concept which depends on the performance of overt acts, and not an intention; * to establish exclusive possession under English law requires much more than a declaration of intention, however plain that declaration is; * Actual occupation and enclosure by fencing is the clearest, and perhaps the most classic, way of establishing exclusive possession; * Merely keeping boundaries clear and from time to time placing or replacing “private property” signs did not [do not] constitute taking possession.

It is without question this Ruling will challenge the psyche of Bahamians, especially those who claim possessory title to properties throughout the Bahamas, without a fence.

There is no doubt that a great many Bahamians, for generations, claim possessory title to vacant land by reason that they and/or their ancestors, cleared the boundaries of properties, and/or erected private property signs.

The Eleutheran | 10/11 2018

(being all of the property is fenced in). “Merely keeping boundaries clear and from time to time placing or replacing “private property” signs” will not be constituted as taking possession.

Claims of possessory ownership, no doubt span many acres. Some lands are perhaps impassible. To fence in these properties or any portions of them will no doubt be cost prohibitive (some may dare say impracticable).

What about a single Cay? Must that now also be fenced in?

29

We await to see how this decision will be applied in the Bahamian courts and what practical impact it will have on the lives of Bahamians and other land owners/claimants.

Authored by: Darren O. Bain North Penthouse, Union Court, Shirley Street & Elizabeth Avenue o. 328-8119 e. darren@lignumadvisors.com w. www.lignumadvisors.com p. N-10050

I must confess, I am inclined to think not.

What then becomes of these claims of ownership?

What becomes of the possessory claims if challenged?

The answer to these questions can be taken from a previous decision of the Privy Council - Ocean Estate v. Pinder 1969 2 AC 19.

“At common law as applied in The Bahamas which have not adopted the English Land Registration Act 1923, there is no such concept as an “absolute” title. Where question of title to land arise in litigation the court is concerned only with the relative strengths of the titles proved by the real claimants. If party A can prove a better title than party B he is entitled to succeed notwithstanding C may have a better title than A...”

Regard must be had to the Limitation Act. Reading the Ocean Estates decision in the light of the Bannerman Town decision, it is our view that “the relative strength” of possessory title to vacant land will be even the now more fortified by land that is fenced in

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In-house Writers - articles written and edited by The Eleutheran Team.

These may be investigative, informational, Sports, Education, Business etc.

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Stamped: October 31, 2018 7:29 PM

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30

Crime News

Oct/Nov 2018

www. EleutheraNews . com

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.

Reports issued by the RBPF locally. ex-boyfriend beat her about the body and threatened to kill her. Police Action requested.

Officers conducted investigations into this matter during which, they arrested an adult male who was interviewed, processed and charged with Causing Harm and Threats of Death. He was transported to New Providence for arraignment.

Eleuthera REPORTS

House Fire Report - On Thursday 25th October, 2018, sometime around 7:10pm, an adult female contacted the Rock Sound Police Station via telephone where she reported that she along with her husband came home and observed that the interior of their residence was engulfed in smoke but there was no fire. Police Assistance Requested. Officers responded where they saw and spoke to the owners, they invited the Police Officers into the residence where they observed that black ash appeared to be everywhere in the interior along with the pungent smell of smoke. The owner and his personal electrician then pointed out to the Police Officers a charred electrical socket in a western front living room. Same was believed by the electrician to be the source of the fire. The Officers also observed that all damages appeared to be superficial with no structural damages.

There was damage to curtains, some ceiling fans, light fixtures and also smoke damages throughout the entire interior of the residence.

Enquiries are continuing Commissioner of Police Visit On Tuesday 23rd October 2018 Commissioner of Police Mr. Anthony Ferguson, Ch. Supt.

Stephen Adderley O/C Eleuthera Division ,Ch/ Supt Patrona Bethel Officer in charge of Human Resource Department, and Insp Terrico Sweeting staff officer visited all of the Stations on the Island of Eleuthera from Harbour Island to Deep Creek they conducted an inspection of the interior and exterior of all Stations and Police residences.

House Breaking Reported - On 22/10/18 an adult male reported that an intruder was inside his residence. Police Action was requested. Officers visited the scene saw and spoke with complainant who reported that he along with his girlfriend was awaken by an unknown male standing in his bedroom, the male upon seeing him fled through the kitchen door, he gave chase of this individual who fled the scene wearing a white t-shirt. As a result of investigations into the matter, an adult male was apprehended, processed and charged with House Breaking.

He was transported to New Providence for arraignment.

Threats of Death report- On Sunday 21st October 2018 sometime around 9:55pm an adult male reported to The Rock Sound Police Station and reported that sometime between 9:44pm and 9:48pm today’s date his stepson sent him threatening messages to his phone via whatsapp messenger placing him in fear for his life. Police action requested .

Threats of Death and Causing Harm - At about 11:00 a.m. Saturday 20th October, 2018 an adult female came to the Governor’s Harbour Station and reported that sometime around 2:30 a.m. on the above mentioned date while at her residence her

Arrest ref Dangerous Drugs - On Thursday 18th October, 2018, sometime around 8:40pm, Officers came in at Rock Sound Police station with an adult male under arrest reference to Dangerous Drugs. They reported arresting and cautioning suspect in the area of a local business establishment and stated that after the suspect saw the police he started walking away acting a suspicious manner. A search was conducted of him and two (2) foil wrappings of grassy substance suspected of being marijuana was discovered down in his pants.

He was transported to the Rock Sound Police Station for further investigations.

Housebreaking and Stealing - On Thursday 18th October 2018, an adult male came in at Rock Sound Police Station and reported that sometime between 6:45am and 7:00pm on today’s date some unknown person or persons entered his home and stole a black Dell Inspiron Laptop valued at $425.00 from his living room table. Police action requested. This scene was visited and processed. Investigations are ongoing.

ASSAULT REPORT - On Wednesday October 17th 2018, sometime around 9:05am, an adult male came to Rock Sound Police Station and reported that on Tuesday 16th October, 2018 he was assaulted by a female known to him. He now requests Police Action in this already reported matter. This matter is under active investigation.

Damage Report - On Wednesday 17th October 2018, sometime around 2:40pm, an adult female e contacted the N.E.P.S and reported that sometime around 12:00pm on 17/10/18 she parked her Blue 2003 Honda Fit Car behind the gates at Three Island Dock. At about 2:30pm on 17/10/18 she returned to her vehicle and discovered that some person/vehicle unknown tore of the rear bumper and cause damage to the left rear door and fender. She does not know the cost of the damage and who is responsible. Officers Miller visited the scene and made note of the damage. This matter is under active investigation.

House Breaking - On Sunday 28th October, 2018 at about 9:35am an adult male Contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station via telephone and reported that he is the care taker of a home. He stated that no one has been in the house for almost a month, however he received a call at about 8:00am on today’s date from the neighbor who informed him that it appear as if some unknown person/s had damaged the back sliding glass door of the house and entered same. Police Action requested. Officers responded to the scene and commenced investigations which are ongoing.

Road Traffic Accident- On Sunday 28th October, 2018 at about 8:51am the police received information of a traffic accident in Tarpum Bay in the area of Camp Bahamas.

Officers visited the scene where they saw a two car collision which involved a 2002 white Chevrolet Trailblazer Jeep with no damages

Police Contact Numbers

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

parked on Queens Highway facing north registered to and driven by an adult male. Vehicle #2 was a black 2008 Honda Inspire which was parked on the eastern side of the road with damages to the front bumper, grill, and hood which was driven by an adult female who while travelling north and attempting to overtake lost control of the vehicle and ran into nearby bushes. Both drivers reported no injuries NOIP served on both drivers and explained.

Damage Report - On Friday 27th October 2018, sometime around an adult male came in at the Rock Sound Police Station and reported that sometime around 4:00am and 5:00pm on Thursday 25th October 2018 some unknown person/s threw an object believed to be an old tire rim against the front windshield of his beige or tan 2000 Chevrolet Blazer that is parked to the front section of his yard. He further stated it will cost approximately eight hundred dollars $800.00 to have his windshield replaced. Police action requested. This matter is under active investigation.

Drug Search Report - Particulars are: At about 7:25am on Wednesday 10th October 2018 Officers from the Governor’s Harbour Police Station conducted road Traffic checks during which Officers searched seven (7) vehicles and eleven (11) persons reference to Dangerous Drugs and Firearms. The searches ended with negative results Attempted House Breaking reported - An adult male contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station at about 8:30pm on the 8.10.18 and reported that he was off the island for a few days and had just returned home and discovered that some person(s) unknown had attempted to gain entry to his home by prying onto a back window.

He requested police action into this matter.

Officers responded to the scene and commenced investigations which are ongoing.

House Breaking - At 2:45am Tuesday October 9th 2018, an adult female contacted the Governors Harbour Police Station via phone and reported on behalf of her mother-in-law that sometime around 2:00am 09/10/2018 while at her place of residence she discovered a unknown male inside her residence whom after being discovered pushed her and fled the residence through the living room south western door, Police assistance requested.

Officers responded at the residence where they saw and spoke to the complainant , she further stated that after checking her residence she discovered that $150.00 cash in BSD was stolen from the living room table. Officers examined the residence exterior structure and discovered no signs suggesting forced entry, however; it is believed that entry was gained through the south western living room door that may have been left unlock. Investigations are ongoing.

Traffic Accident Serious Injury - On Friday 5th October 2018 sometime around

Rock Sound Sgt. Office Rock Sound Airport Station Lower 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

1:30am, Dr. Sidney Smith c/o Rock Sound Clinic, contacted Rock Sound Police Station via telephone, and reported that an unknown male had just brought an adult male into that clinic, who was suffering from injuries he sustained in a traffic accident. Police assistance was requested.

Officers visited Rock Sound Clinic where he saw the victim lying on a hospital cot. He saw and spoke with Dr. Smith who listed injuries as follows: neck, C-Spine, possible head trauma and possibly paralyzed as he had no movements in his lower body. Attempts were made to speak with him which proved futile as he was only mumbling and was incomprehensible and he was very disoriented. Dr. Smith also informed that an emergency flight is scheduled to arrive at Rock Sound International Airport at 6:00am to transport the patient to New Providence for further medical treatment. Investigations are ongoing.

Arrest reference to Suspected Dangerous Drugs - At about 12:08pm on Thursday 4th October 2018 Officers while on Special Duty Patrol on Queens Highway, Gregory Town in the area of Oleander Gardens stopped a grey 2003 Chevrolet Astro Van traveling south for a routine traffic inspection.

At that time the Officers smelt the strong aroma of burnt marijuana coming from the vehicle. As a result the driver was informed of the Officer’s suspicion and that a search will be conducted of his person and the vehicle referenced to possession of dangerous drugs. While searching a small front pocket of a blue/grey backpack discovered one clear baggie containing a quantity of suspected Hashish Resin, one baggie containing a quantity of suspected marijuana and one piece of foil wrap also containing a quantity of suspected marijuana.

Also found in the bag were other drug paraphernalia including a grinder and a pipe. As a result the suspect was arrested and cautioned.

He was later processed and charged.

STEALING REPORTED - At about 12:45pm on 3rd October 2018 an adult male came into the G.H.P.S. and reported that sometime on Friday 28th September 2018 one of the electricians on the job-site discovered that that some person/s stole more than $5000.00 in Electrical copper wire. He was off the island when he received the information reference to this matter, Police Actions/assistance requested in this matter.

Officers responded to the scene where they were then directed to a 40 foot containers which housed construction equipment and where the wires were stolen from. Investigations are ongoing into this matter.

Stolen Passport/Voters Card - On Wednesday 03rd October 2018, an adult male came to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station and reported that on Friday 28th September 2018, sometime during the evening

Crime News

Online at www.EleutheraNews.com hours, he was involved in a physical altercation in where he got knocked out, when he awake he notice that his Bahamian Passport serial number unknown and his Bahamian voters card missing from his pocket. Police Assistance Requested. This matter is under active investigation.

Drug Arrest Report - On Saturday 29th September 2018, sometime around 6:46pm, officers while on mobile patrol in the area of the Reef, situated in the Bluff, Eleuthera, observed a blue Nissan Teana, with no front license plate attached, being driven by an adult male . The officers noticed as the suspect looked in the direction of the marked Police vehicle, and began fidgeting with something on the inside of his vehicle. As a result the officers became suspicious and beckoned the suspect to stop. The officers approached the suspect, and informed him that they suspect him to be in possession of dangerous drugs and firearms.

A search was then conducted of the suspect and the vehicle, and while searching inside of the front center console, the officers found (7) silver foil wraps, each containing a grassy like substance, suspected to be marijuana. As a result the suspect was arrested and cautioned.

Stabbing Report - Sometime around 11:45pm on Friday 28th September 2018 an anonymous caller contacted The Rock Sound Police Station and reported that a man had been stabbed. Police assistance requested.

Officers responded and upon arrival on scene observed that a group of men were gathered at the Clinic located Information received from an off duty Officer was that some moments ago while in his personal vehicle he was alerted that a stabbing had occurred and upon making further checks he discovered the victim an

adult male had been stabbed multiple times by three males known to him. Preliminary reports as to the state of injuries sustained by victim described as critical level 1 by Dr Sidney Smith the chief medical officer south Eleuthera.

The victim sustained ten (10) stab wounds to upper and lower back .stab wounds to the scalp and left shoulder. Patient referred to New Providence c/o the princess Margaret hospital.

Medical flight requested. The suspects were all apprehended and charged with Grievous Harm, they were referred to New Providence for arraignment.

DISTURBANCE OF COURT - At about 12:50pm on Friday 28th September 2018, Officer reported that while outside the Governor’s Harbour Magistrate Court, they observed a verbal argument between a male and female , As a result the relatives of both persons started throwing jeers at each other including which resulted in a fight between some seven adults.

As a result all parties were reported and warned of prosecution for Disturbing the Court and Fighting.

Road Accident Report - At 2:10am on Saturday 29th September, 2018 an anonymous caller contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station via phone and reported there is a traffic accident in the area of Hut Point involving a single vehicle which overturned. Damage and injuries involved.

Police assistance requested. Officers arrived at the scene where a silver rhd Honda Fit was observed overturned in the eastern lane, facing a southwest direction with extensive damages.

The vehicle was un-occupied at the time. They were informed that the driver had left in another vehicle to visit clinic in Governors Harbour.

Measurements were taken of the scene. Investi-

SPOTLIGHT

The Royal Bahamas Police Force Central Eleuthera District salutes R/Cpl.192 Joan Cooper as one of our reliable volunteer Officers. Reserve Corporal Cooper was one of the graduates of Eleuthera’s first Reserves Squad in 1999. She is known for providing efficient, cheerful and professional service to members of the community.

The Eleutheran | 10/11 2018

gations continue.

Harbour Island REPORTS

Police Warning Requested: On Tuesday 25th September 2018 at 6:18pm an adult male of Nassau Bahamas/ Ripley Street Harbour Island came to the H.I.P.S and reported that sometime after 5pm on today’s date while working on some function at the Dunmore Hotel on Harbour Island. A co-worker and he got into an argument over instructions left by the boss. The co-worker then attempted to physically assault him. He is requesting her to be warned of her behavior.

Threats of Harm Report- Police Warning: An adult male of Dunmore Street Harbour Island came in at the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that on Thursday 26th September 2018 at about 8:15pm while in the area of the Fisherman’s dock situated Bay Street Harbour Island, he was confronted in a violent manner by a male whom he knows of Pitt Street Harbour Island, whom made a threatening remark towards him stating that “he has a bullet for him and he’s ready to knock him down with his motorcycle and cut his stomach open”. Police Assistance requested in having the suspect warned.

Disturbance Report - Police Assistance Requested: On Friday 28th September 2018 at 5:45pm an adult male of Coconut Grove Ave Harbour Island contacted the H.I.P.S via telephone and reported that his neighbor that lives to the rear of his residence is creating an altercation with him over his trees that he has planted next to the fence. Police assistance requested. Police visited the residence of complainant, saw and spoke to the neighbor, an adult female of Johnson Road, Harbour Island, who stated that the neighbor purposely allows his trees to grow high and will over the fence into her own backyard so she was chopping down all the trees that were hanging over the fence into her yard. He was properly advised to keep his trees trim to a reasonable length avoiding them from hanging into the neighbor’s yard and they both were warned to keep the peace, area was left quiet.

Stabbing Reported: On Saturday 29th September 2018, an unknown caller contacted the HIPS and reported that a young man got stabbed in the area of the Vic Hum night and that he was at the local clinic, Police assistance requested. On the same date at about 3:15am, an officer arrived at the Harbour Island Clinic saw and spoke with an adult male of Barracks Street who stated that he was involved in an argument with a young lady and the argument got heated resulting in him getting stabbed in the back, no police action requested. The officer saw and spoke with the mentioned female, who stated that while just across the street from a Bar she was approached by the young man who said that he wanted to talk, she went at his house to talk, while there he got very physical by punching her about the body resulting in her stabbing him in the back, no police action requested.

Assault with a Dangerous Instrument Report - Police Assistance Requested: On Saturday 27th October 2018 at 8pm A young adult female of Coconut Grove Ave, Harbour Island came to the H.I.P.S and reported that on Saturday 27th October 2018 while she was in the area of Tropic Hut along with her daughter and her best friend, her baby father approached her about a matter concerning their child. After the argument, he then hopped in his golf cart and tried to knock her, their child and her best friend down causing all

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them to run out of the way in fear for their lives.

Police action requested.

On Saturday 27th October 2018 checks were made throughout Harbour Island for the suspect with negative results.

Drug Arrest Report: On Saturday 27th October 2018 at 8:30pm police held an adult male of Bluff, Eleuthera. An officer reported arresting and cautioning the suspect at 6:10pm in The Bluff in reference to possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply and resisting arrest.

Harassment Report - Police Warning: A young adult female of Colebrooke Alley came in at the Harbour Island Police Station sometime around 1:15pm and reported that a male she knows is constantly harassing her everywhere he sees her making threatening and sexual remarks towards her. Stating that “what he will do to her when he has a chance” placing her in fear for her safety. She request that he be warned. Police reported making checks throughout the community and at the suspect’s residence on Paris Lane Harbour Island with negative results in locating him. Warning remains pending Disturbance Report - Police Assistance Assault Report: An Officer contacted the Harbour Island Police Station via telephone sometime around 1:40pm on Sunday 30/9/18 2018 and reported Information received that there was a disturbance in the area of a Convenience Store Situated on Bay Street Harbour Island. Police assistance requested. Police reported that upon arrival on the scene at about 1:42pm they saw and spoke with the proprietor of the Store who stated that while at his business establishment a female whom he knows by face and first name spat into his face and left the establishment. He was advised to come to the Harbour Island Police Station and make an official complaint.

Domestic Dispute: Police Warning: An adult male of Pitt Street Harbour Island Came in at the Harbour Island Police Station sometime around 2:00pm and reported that he resides at the family home situated Pitt Street Harbour Island with his mother and estrange sister who he haven’t communicated with for over five (5) years now. However he reported that on Sunday 30th September 2018 sometime around 1:35pm his sister began to throw shades at him and was making insulting remarks towards him. He request that she be warned. An officer reported that he saw and spoke with the accused while at her residence. She was informed of the complaint made against her. She admitted to making remarks but she said she did not direct any of them to him. She added that she was generally speaking at their residence. She was asked to be of good behavior towards her brother and to keep the peace.

Surrendered Ammunition for Destruction: On Monday 1st October 2018 at 12pm an adult male of Ripley Street Harbour Island came to the H.I.P.S with 100 live .22 long rifles copper plated hollow point high velocity rounds in reference to safe keeping.

Assault Report - Police Warning Requested: On Monday 1st October 2018 at 6:10pm an adult female of Bay Street Harbour Island came to the H.I.P.S and reported that while she was at her residence, she told the groups of boys in the yard that they will not be playing any dominoes today because none of them contributes when it’s time to pay the light bill. However, after taking the dominoes off the table, a male known to her used his hand to hit her on her hand and also threw his drink on her.

She is requesting that he be warned of his behavior. Police saw and spoke to the accused adult male who was informed of the complaint made against him. He denied the allegations and a few

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Crime News

Oct/Nov 2018

people in the immediate area all stated that the incident was not as reported both parties were warned, area was left quiet.

Missing Person Report - Police Assistance Requested: On Monday 1st October 2018 at 7:45pm an adult female of Alice Street Harbour Island came to the H.I.P.S and reported that at 8:45am, she dropped both her sons to school (H.I.A.A.S). After school ended at 3pm, only one of her sons came home. Up to 7:45pm her son was nowhere to be found.

Police assistance requested. At 8:20pm the complainant came into the H.I.P.S along with her missing son. She reported when she arrived home from the station he was at home, he told her he was at a friend house doing his homework, no further action requested.

Child neglect report - Police warning requested: On Thursday 4/10/18 at about 2:50pm an adult female Princess Street Harbour Island came in at the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that she suspects that her grandson and granddaughter are being neglected. As a result she took them to the clinic to be examined. After they were examined both children were discharged with medication. She then took both of them to her residence because they were sick for an extended period of time. However she further added that their father came to her residence creating a disturbance about children being given medication. Police Warning requested.

Police warning requested: On Friday 5/10/18 at about 12:15am an adult male of Johnson Road Harbour Island came in at Harbour Island Police Station and reported that his estranged wife and her brother became involved in a verbal altercation over her cell phone while he was trying to discuss visiting his child resulting in her brother insulting him Police warning requested. Both persons were informed of the complaint made against them and were warned as requested.

Threat of harm report / Domestic dispute- Police action requested: On Friday 5/10/18 at about 3:54am an adult male of Chapel Street Harbour Island came in at Harbour Island Police Station and reported that while at his residence located Chapel Street Harbour Island he became involved in an argument with his wife resulting in his Step-son making some threatening remarks towards him putting him in fear for his safety. Police action requested.

Domestic Dispute Report- Police Warning Requested: On Friday 5th October 2018 at 12:05pm an adult female of Cottonwood Street, Pinewood Gardens and Coconut Grove Ave Harbour Island came to S-3 and reported that on Thursday 4th October 2018 while at the residence she shares with her husband, an unknown female entered the house and came into their bedroom without permission. The female informed her that she has a child for her husband. After the female left, her husband became irate with her and it resulted in a verbal altercation between them.

She requested that this female be warned of her behavior. Police while at the H.I.P.S saw and spoke to an adult female of Colebrooke Street Harbour Island, she was informed of the complaint made against her. She stated that she and the male are in a relationship and she wasn’t aware that his wife came back; she further stated that she sleeps at his residence with their son all the time and she also pays the rent there.

She stated that she will no longer be going by his residence as long as he provides the money for their child. She was further advised civil action.

Stealing from a Vessel Report Police Assistance Requested: On Friday 5th October 2018 at about 1:30pm an adult

male of Princess Street Harbour Island came to the H.I.P.S and reported that some unknown person (s) stole his black 90 horsepower Mercury engine which he had attached to a 20 foot Mako boat down by Girls Bay on Bay Street. Last time seeing it was on Thursday 4th October 2018 sometime around 8pm. Police assistance requested.

Threats of Harm Report - Police Warning: A young adult male of Lower Bogue North Eleuthera came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that on Saturday 5th October 2018 at around 2:00am while on the Government dock situated Bay , Harbour Island, a ferry boat operator he knows came at him with a box cutter and attempted to cut him resulting in a struggle between them both.

He further stated that he managed to get away however the man threatened to come to where he is currently staying to cause harm to him putting him in fear for his life and safety. Police warning requested. Police reported that the unit made checks of the suspect residence situated Coconut Grove Ave with negative results.

However the suspect came in at the Harbour Island Police Station where he was informed by a PC of the complaint made against him and later advised to have no communication with the complainant. In addition he was also warned of prosecution and admonished to keep the peace.

Police Assistance Requested - On Saturday 6th October 2018 at 1:15pm an adult female contacted S-3 via phone and reported that around 2:30am whiles leaving her residence in Trianna Shores, she observed a male clad in a light colored white shirt running from the vicinity of her vehicle. She made checks of her vehicle and met inside ram shack, however no items were missing, police assistance requested.

Arrest- Disorderly Behavior: On Saturday 6th October 2018, an officer reported that while at the N.E Regatta Site located Bay Street, Harbour Island she observed a young man known touching females inappropriate.

The females refused police action but requested that he be warned. The officer warned the male about his behavior. He became loud and throw his hands up in the air saying “I didn’t do anything wrong” he was warned again of his behavior and continued shouting loudly and acting disorderly. As a result he was arrested and cautioned for disorderly behavior and transported to the HIPs for safekeeping.

Assault Report - Police Warning requested: On Monday 8th October 2018 at 8:30am an adult male of Pitt Street came to the H.I.P.S and reported that whiles walking through Pitt Street, and a male known to him started blowing at him with his car horn, a few words were exchanged and then the male exited the vehicle and assaulted him by punching him in the face. He is requesting that the accused man be warned.

While at the H.I.P.S, an officer saw and spoke to the accused male of Nesbitt Street who was informed of the complaint made against him. He denied the allegations and was warned of his behavior.

Threats of Death Report - Police Assistance Requested: On Monday 8th October 2018 at 1:35pm an adult male of Barrack Street Harbour Island came to the H.I.P.S and reported that a male known to him is constantly threatening to kill him. He stated that this male uses threatening remarks telling him “off with ya head”, stating that he will shoot him because he brought his gun from Nassau. This is putting him in fear for his life and he is requesting police assistance in this matter.

Assault Report - Police Assistance: On Monday 8th October 2018, at about

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4:00pm an adult female of Colebrook Alley came to the HIPS and reported for her juvenile daughter told her that a young man slapPED her while in a Shop on Bay Street. Police assistance requested in him being warned. An officer, while at the HIPS, warned the accused male in reference to this matter and informed him of further prosecution.

Causing Harm/ Damage & Assault with a dangerous instrument report- Police Action requested: On Monday 8th October 2018, a young adult male of Palmetto Point Eleuthera, came to the HIPS and reported that he was stopped by a female he knows while in the area of her house, who then pulled him off the cart and beat him about the body Causing Damages to his pink Hollister Shirt that later resulted in her boyfriend pulling a knife on him stating that he must go from around the area. Police action requested. While at the HIPS and officer arrested the female in reference to this matter. An officer reported interviewing the suspect in reference to Causing Harm. She was later charged and granted bail in the sum, of 1500.00 with one surety to appear before court at a later date.

The Officer while at the HIPS arrested and cautioned the adult male boyfriend of the accused, of Lower Bogue Eleuthera, in reference to assault with a dangerous instrument. Police interviewed the suspect under caution where he admitted to having the knife in his care and custody during the incident but denied pulling it on persons. He was later charged with Assault with a dangerous instrument.

Assault Report- Police Information: An adult male of Colebrooke Street Harbour Island came in at the Harbour Island Police Station on Monday 8th October 2018 at around 11:05pm and reported that a male whom he knows punched him to the face causing pain after a verbal altercation with him wanting him to leave his Bar. Police Warning requested. An officer reported that sometime around 12:15Am on Tuesday 9th October 2018 he saw and spoke with the accused where he was informed of the complaint made against him. He reported that while on duty at the bar the male whom he knows was at the establishment smoking marijuana. He added that he requested that he leave the establishment that resulted in a verbal altercation and later physical after the complainant made attempts to punch him. Both parties were seen and spoken to and admonish to keep the peace and warned of prosecution.

Assault with a deadly weapon Police Action requested: On Wednesday 10th October 2018, a young adult male of Bay street Harbour Island came to the HIPS and reported that while walking in the area of Colebrook Alley he was approached by 2 two males he only knows. One of the males then pulled from his waist a green camouflage hand gun and pointed it at him putting him in fear for his safety, and said “yall lil boys need to get yall head blow off and kill”. Police action requested.

On Wednesday 10th October 2018 police made checks through the Colebrooke Alley for the suspect with negative results. Checks were further made at his residence Barrack Street with negative results.

Domestic Dispute Report - Police Warning Requested: On Tuesday 9th October 2018 at 12:35pm an adult female Dunmore Street, Harbour Island came to the H.I.P.S and reported that from July 09, 2018 she moved out of the bedroom she shares with her husband.

She stated she is sick and was instructed by her doctor not to have sexual intercourse but

her husband did not understand. On Tuesday October 9th 2018 they had a dispute of that issue and he came at her with his fist clinched to hit her. He added that she was armed with a bottle in her hand and she attempted to hit him. He left the house and threatened to call the Minister of Immigration to have her passport taken. Police warning is requested.

Causing Harm Report - Police Action requested: An officer reported that on Tuesday 9/10/18 whiles on mobile patrol sometime around 11:35pm in the area of Briland on the Go Service Station, Colebrooke Street, he was beckoned and stopped by an adule male of Coconut Grove Ave who reported that a male whom he knows of Barrack Street Harbour Island attacked him with a cutlass while at Colebrooke Alley causing injuries/lacerations to the rear of his head resulting in pain and heavy bleeding. Police assistance/action requested. PC 3616 Austin contacted Nurse Henfield emergency nurse c/o Harbour Island Community Health Center/Clinic and requested assistance after observing the complainant was bleeding heavily. The complainant was assisted to the Harbour Island Community Clinic. Dr. Fox attended to the complaint wounds where he reported treating him with thirteen (13) external stitches and the injury is not serious and is not likely to terminate fatally. An officer along with Dr. Fox completed an official police hospital form in regards to the matter. Police recorded a written statement from the complainant who requested Police action into the matter.

Threats of Death Arrest: An adult male of Coconut Grove Avenue, Harbour Island was arrested and cautioned at the Harbour Island Police Station in reference to Threats Of Death and Fighting by Sgt 1401 Carey. He appeared well. Police interviewed the suspect under caution before subsequently charging him and later releasing him on bail in the sum of $1,500.00 to appear in Magistrate Court on Monday 15th October. 2018 Harassment Report: On Thursday 11th October, 2018 at around 7:30 pm an adult female of Colebrooke Street came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that while in the area of Briland On the Go, Colebrooke Street she was approached by a female known to her who began shouting “see me here what you wan do? You already try frig up my brother”. The complainant reported that she informed the suspect that she was not interested in an altercation and that the matter referred to was currently before the magistrate court however the suspect began to shout and carry on placing her in fear and annoyance.

Police warning requested. On Thursday 11th October, 2018 at about 8:10 pm police proceeded to the residence of of the accused adult female of Johnson View Road. The suspect was informed of the complaint made against her and began shouting and behaving disorderly.

She denied the allegations and was sternly warned as requested by the V/C and also of her disorderly behavior.

Police Warning Report- On Friday 12th October 2018 at 1am an adult male of Coconut Grove Ave Harbour Island came to S-3 and reported that shortly after 12:30am while asleep at his residence, his daughter’s baby’s father entered his residence without permission and stole his daughter’s cell phone and ran off. He is requesting that this male be warned to stay off of his property and out of his residence. He was also advised civil action.

Police made checks of the Johnson Road area trying to locate the accused male with negative results. At about 7:00am the accused returned to Harbour Island Station and requested Police action. Police visited his residence where he viewed damage to a eastern rear door where

Crime News

Online at www.EleutheraNews.com the screen was damaged, also a western bedroom window with the screen on the ground and a small wooden bench underneath same as the complainant suggested, also a witness statement was recorded from a female.

Domestic/Land Dispute - Police assistance requested: On Friday 12th October, 2018 at around 5:50 pm an adult male of Clarence Street contacted the Harbour Island Police Station via phone and reported that while inside his residence a male known to him walked passed his house door and used obscenities towards him to his annoyance. He further reported that there is an ongoing land/ family dispute and he asked at a prior time that this male be warned not to walk through his yard as there is another entrance to the home where the male resides. Police assistance requested. Police arrived on the scene where an extremely hostile crowd was met. The officer saw and spoke to the complainant who gave certain information. The complainant was advised accordingly. He further requested that the residents of the home at the rear of his be warned not to use his passage as access however the property is under probate and the executor of the estate granted those residents passage. The officer contacted Insp. Farquharson who arrived on scene and assisted with crowd control before civilly advising the party.

Insp. Farquharson contacted O/C of Eleuthera Ch. Supt. Adderley and arranged for a sit down with him and the family regarding the ongoing dispute. All left quiet and in order.

Threat of harm report - Police action requested down: On Friday 12th October, 2018 at around 8:00 pm a young adult female of Coconut Grove Avenue came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that at around 7:50 pm while in the area of Casper’s Laundromat, Love Lane she was approached by the father of her child whom she made a complaint of Burglary and Stealing against prior. She further reported that when he approached he told her that she had better leave Harbour Island if she knows what’s good for her placing her in instant fear for her life. Police action requested.

Operation “Briland shake down”- On Saturday 13/10/18 at about 4:00am Crew of Police reported executing search warrants on the premises of an adult male of Barrack Street Harbour Island reference to D/Drugs and firearms with negative results however the suspect was arrested in reference to an assault with a deadly weapon - a complaint made on 10/10/18. The suspect was later then taken to the Harbour Island police Station for safekeeping. On same date the mentioned crew executed search warrants on the premises of five adult males of Barrack Street Harbour Island in reference to D/Drugs and firearms with negative results. A search was also conducted of the residence of another young adult male of Barrack Street Harbour Island reference to D/Drugs and firearms with negative results however the suspect was arrested and cautioned reference to assault with a deadly weapon a complaint also made on 10/10/18. He was taken in at Harbour Island Police Station for safekeeping. While at Johnson View Road the mentioned crew executed a search warrant on the premises of an adult male in reference to D/Drugs and firearms resulting in a small quantity of grassy like substance suspected to be marijuana being found under the bed in a foil wrapper. As a result the suspect was cautioned and placed under arrest in reference to possession of D/Drugs. He was subsequently cautioned in reference to Burglary, stealing and threats of harm a complaint made on 12/10/18. The suspect was taken into

Police custody and investigations continue into these matters.

Threat of harm report - Police information: On Saturday 13/10/18 at about 10:45pm an adult male of Marina Road Harbour Island came in at Harbour Island Police Station and reported that at about 3:00pm same date while delivering along with his employer and a co-worker, a young native male of Harbour Island whom he only knows as by nickname came up to him while they were at Colebrooke Alley and pointed to his waist where he saw a black and orange unknown object in his waist he suspects it to be a flare gun however he stated that the young man informed him if he don’t give him his twenty dollars he don’t want him to use this while pointing to the object putting him in fear same reported as Police information.

Threats of Harm Report - Police Warning requested: An adult female of Pitt Street Harbour Island came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that two (2) Haitian females known to her are constantly threatening to fight and beat her. She reported that she does not want any problems and is requesting Police warning into the matter.

Fraud Report - Police Action: An adult male of Dunmore Street contacted the Harbour Island Police Station via phone and reported that he accidently gave $300.00 in U.S currency all $20.00 denomination to a patron whiles cashing at his father’s store situated Dunmore Street Harbour Island. He added that when he requested that it be returned to him the male refused. Police action requested.

When police arrived at around 5:37Pm the complainant provided still images of the transaction made between he and the patron.

He was unable to give an official statement due to the amount of patrons in and out the liquor store. He was advised to do so as soon as possible. The suspect, an adult male of Queen’s Highway/Colebrooke, Street Harbour Island, was reportedly arrested and cautioned by an officer at abou5:40Pm while in the area of in reference to Fraud by False Pretenses.

Suspicious Persons Report- On Tuesday 16th October 2018 at around 1:25 pm an anonymous caller contacted the Harbour Island Police Station via phone and reported that there are four (4) teenage girls roaming the streets unaccompanied. It was further reported that these females are staying at a Hotel on Dunmore Street. Police assistance requested.

Police investigated the matter and found that the group consisted of 3 females ages 18 and one minor female (15) all of New Providence.

The mother of the minor girl was contacted by police and informed the officers that she gave her daughter permission to travel with her 18 yr old cousin. Sr Welfare officer c/o Dept. Social Services contacted s3 via phone and reported that the minor was given consent to travel with an adult therefore her department will not get involved. She added that if the minor needs assistance with a ticket to return to the capital her department will assist. As a result of the information gathered, the females were allowed to leave and advised to be of good behavior.

Assault with A Deadly Weapon Report - Police Warning Requested: On Tuesday 16th October 2018 at 10:26pm an adult male of Coconut Grove Ave, Harbour Island came to the H.I.P.S and reported that at about 10:20pm while at the front of a Bar located on Dunmore and Clarence Street, he got into an argument with his friend, as a result this friend threw his drink in his face causing the beer bottle to hit him above his right eye, then he pulled a knife on him attempting to stab him, putting him in fear for his life. He wishes

The Eleutheran | 10/11 2018

that he be warned of his behavior. Police saw and spoke to the adult male of Trianna Shores ( Up the track). He was informed of the complaint made against him. He stated he threw his drink in his friend Harold face because of the degrading and insulting things he was saying to him in front of all their friends.

He denied pulling out a knife, rather it was his key chain which he hid behind his back giving the impression that it was a knife. He was warned of his behavior and all was left in order at that location.

Police Assistance - An adult male of Bay Street Harbour Island came in at the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that he was contracted by a female of Pitt Street Harbour Island to do handy and painting work around her residence about three months ago. However he added that she owes him a balance of $50.00 and has been avoiding him. Police assistance requested in speaking to the female in reference to the money owed for his service rendered. Police saw and spoke to the female who admitted that she owes the complainant. The complainant was given the $50.00 owed to him after coming to a mutual agreement in the presence of an Officer. The area was left quiet and in order.

Assault - Police Warning: On Wednesday 17th October 2018, an adult female of Colebrook Alley came to the HIPS and reported that at about 8:35pm while at home along with her husband they were involved in an argument which resulting in him pulling a knife on her. Police assistance requested in this matter. Police visited the residence of the complainant where her husband was not present at the time, however she gave him his cell phone number. Police spoke with the husband via cell whom stated that he knew he was wrong and will be staying at his father house until this matter is resolved.

Arrest reference to: Causing harm - On Thursday 18/10/18 police arrested and cautioned an adult male suspect of Nesbitt Street Harbour Island in reference to causing harm - a complaint made on Wednesday 17/10/18. He was interviewed under caution while at S3 where he admitted to the offense of causing harm. The suspect was charged with causing harm contrary to section 135(1) of the penal code chapter 84. He was granted bail in the sum of $500 with one surety to appear before Magistrate Court Harbour Island on Wednesday 21/11/18 @ 9:30am.

Harassment Report - Police Warning: An adult female of Pitt Street Harbour Island came in at the Harbour Island Police Station sometime around 8:50am and reported that a male whom she knows approached her at about 8:40am on the same date whils in the area of Pitt and Princess Street accusing her of begging man for money and making disturbing sexual advances and remarks towards her. Stating that “he been to jail before for murder and isn’t scared of her boyfriend or relatives”. The complainant reported being annoyed and in fear for her safety. Police warning requested.

Police saw and spoke to the suspect who was informed of the complaint made against him. He admitted to communicating with the complainant and stated that she threatened to slap him. As a result they both had an exchange of words. The suspect was later given a stern warning not to communicate with the complainant when he see her and further admonished to keep the peace and warned of future prosecutions.

Trespassing Report - Police Warning: An adult male of Barrack Street

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Harbour Island came in at the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that sometime between Tuesday 16th of October and Thursday 18th October he discovered that coconuts were picked off a tree and left on a property that he care takes situated on Dunmore Street Harbour Island. He added that information received is that a male whom he knows was seen on the property picking coconuts to collect the water to sell. He requests that he be warned to stay of the premises.

Disturbance Report- Police Warning: An adult female of Love Lane, reported that at about 7:30pm while at her residence a young woman she knows was parked in the road blowing her horn repeatedly. She spoke to her about it and as a result she kept blowing it even after her family member came out to her. This is not the first time she told her about this. Police warning requested.

Suspects Arrested ref: Stealing from a Vessel: A young adult male of Princess Street Harbour Island while in the area of Dunmore Street and Love Lane, a male (U18) of Harbour Island while at his place of work and an adult male of Colebrooke Alley Harbour Island while in the area of the Narrows (HBI) all in reference to Stealing from a Vessel on 4/10/18.

Threats of Death - Police Action : On Tuesday 23rd October 2018 an adult male of Bay street came to the HIPS and reported that while in the area of “Big Red” shop his girlfriend approached him with a cutlass and a Cleaver knife and said that she is going to killed him if he comes home tonight.

Police action requested.

Domestic dispute report Police assistance requested: On Friday 26/10/18 at about 12:32pm an adult female of Clarence Street Harbour Island came in at Harbour Island Police Station and reported that at about 7:35am same date while at her residence she became involved in an argument with her husband concerning their finances at home and his drinking problems she further stated that this is not the first time that they have argued over such things and she is presently frustrated at his behavior towards Police spoke with both persons concerned and sternly advised them as it relates to conflict resolution they were also advised civilly.

Threats of Harm ReportPolice Warning: An adult male of New Dunmore Subdivision came in at the Harbour Island Police Station at about 2:40am and reported that on Saturday 27th October 2018 sometime around 2:30am while in the area of Island Luck Web Café Situated Bay Street Harbour Island a male whom he knows approached him in a hostile manner stating that “he ready to put 30 grand on his head putting him in fear for his safety. Police Warning requested.

Police visited the area of Bay Street at about 2:55am. They saw a large crowd of Persons in the area of Beyond the Reef Night Club and what appeared to be a commotion.

As a result the unit disburse the large crowd of persons and later saw and spoke to the accused male who was later transported to the Harbour Island Police Station to further assist with enquires into the allege altercation that occurred prior to the Police Arrival on scene.

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Perspective

Oct/Nov 2018

only one

By: Andrew L. Burrows andrewburrows1@gmail.com The scene in Rev.5 describes what God revealed to John our brother, about the position of our Lord Jesus who is the only Son of God, and the only heir to the throne of God! Our Lord Jesus qualified

himself for this eternal position by proving He is worthy; He who was eternal became a man and humbled himself in perfect submission to God Most High, and paid the total redemption price for all who are willing to believe and accept God’s gift of eternal life. No son of Adam could qualify; none!

Adam who was created innocent was quickly led astray by his wife who was deceived by the Devil to disobey God’s warnings to them, Gen.3. There are numerous other persons throughout the Bible who God raised up but each one failed to achieve the level of righteousness required. Noah was chosen by God to be the preserver of all life when the world was condemned for total rebellion against God and righteousness. He succeeded in preserving life on Earth but failed to be the example for them to follow, Gen.9.

The offspring of Noah quickly became contaminated by rebellion against God and they established demonic idol worship that affected every group of people in the world, so God called out Abraham and promised to bless his offspring and make of him a nation that would be blessed with the knowledge of God Almighty. Abraham had eight sons, but it was through Isaac, the son of his wife Sarah that his dependence was estab-

lished. Isaac fathered only two sons who were twins; although born the same time, they were complete opposites in character, and although Jacob was the younger of the two, he succeeded in buying the ‘right of birth’ from Esau and also received the blessing that was due to the older son.

Jacob fathered only one daughter and she was sexually exploited and out of her twelve brothers only Joseph developed a close relationship with God and became an example of the future Messiah King.

He saved the lives of his family through becoming a slave in Egypt, where he was promoted to the highest position of leadership under the Pharaoh. While Joseph was an example of how the redeemer would rule, it was revealed through Jacob at the time that he blessed his sons that the ‘Redeemer’ would come through his son Judah.

Over a period of four hundred years God multiplied the family of Jacob and they became a multitude of people. Moses was sent back to Egypt to lead them out to freedom after the Pharaoh enslaved them, and because they refused to believe God they were delayed forty years while that whole generation of adults were allowed to die before their children replaced them and returned to the land God promised to give to Abraham. After receiving the teaching and instructions from God, Moses died after blessing the people if they

New HACE Chairman, Committed To Continuing Vital Emergency Services

With the recent relocation of former HACE Chairman, Christopher Gosling, back home to England - local businessman, pastor, and HACE volunteer since 2009, Mr. Jason Thompson, has taken on the responsibility as the new Chairman of the Health Association of Central Eleuthera (HACE), which has provided essential emergency first responder services to the Central Eleuthera communities for many years.

Mr. Thompson, who got involved with the rigorous role of first responder volunteering nine years ago, is well versed within the HACE organization,

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and says he had a passion to reach out to the community in any way possible, “This was one of the opportunities with the door open that I stepped into, and I just love it, being there to help people”. Jason also continues to be involved with fire emergency services as a leader in the ‘Men of Faith’ community group.

“It’s indeed a sacrifice, but you just have to make up your mind if you’re going to get involved, especially with responder services, volunteer at that, that ‘hey’ it’s going to be a commitment. You are going to get calls at 2am, 3am - you just have to make that commitment to move… Once I entered this, I realized that it was going to be a huge commitment - that’s what I signed up for, and I’m going to see it through. As volunteers, we have a heavy responsibility, but also when you look at others, like our doctors and nurses as well - they too have to be there to be a part of it. It’s a team effort. So when you are working together as a team, and realize that you are helping to save lives, it gives you that motivation to keep on going, to do what you have to do,” explained Mr. Thompson.

As HACE moves forward, Chairman Thompson said, “We are going to continue to build on what former Chairman, Christopher Gosling, helped to establish, and I’ve been a part of it for many years. So, the system is there, we have lots of volunteers, and we are currently recruiting even younger volunteers… Periodically we will have training sessions, so, they can continue to be well equipped as first responders. It’s an ongoing process.”

followed it, and also cursing them if they disobeyed it.

The rest of the Old Testament is a record of the continuous failing of people and leaders who although they knew God, did not believe and trust Him. They turned to the worshiping of Idols and demons, even though they built a temple in Jerusalem. King Solomon who oversaw the construction of it and dedicated it to the worship of God Almighty, he was the very one who filled Jerusalem with Idols to please the hundreds of foreign wives he married. God gave many warnings to the kings of Israel but they became more hardened against Him. God allowed foreign nations to invade Israel and destroy the temple and enslave the people.

For five hundred years they languished under foreign oppressors, awaiting the promise of a ‘Savior’ who they thought would be a powerful king. God’s plan was to save them from their sins through His righteous redeemer. Jesus came in the ‘fullness of time’ to reveal the salvation of both the nation of Israel and the World.

We now await the return of ‘The Righteous One’ for He alone has the right to rule this world in righteousness.

Mr. Jason Thompson takes on Chairmanship of the volunteer organisation that serves the important role of providing ambulance services in Central Eleuthera.

Staying up to date with modern equipment is also a priority, added Mr. Thompson, “We are aiming to have more modern medical equipment onboard our ambulances, and maintenance does not stop, so we can continue to service the community needs, and for that we are depending on the community supporting this volunteer effort through their donations and funding.

We have had strong support from both local residents and winter residents in the past, and look forward to a continuation of that partnership.”

“All the support we can get, we desperately need,” he emphasized. “Again, funds raised and donations are not going into anyone’s pocket. It’s all volunteer. If you can touch a life, change a life, save a life - it’s all worth it… We love it, and we will continue to be there to serve the people, and we are relying on the communities supporting our efforts.

The important contribution that HACE has made, assisting with boosting the public blood bank inventory will also continue, said Jason, with periodic blood drives, in partnership with the Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) Blood Bank.

Three ambulances are currently operated by HACE, with two stationed in Palmetto Point/Governor’s Harbour, and another stationed at the clinic in Hatchet Bay. HACE also currently has a team of six volunteer first responders in Hatchet Bay, and another seven volunteer first responders in Palmetto Point/Governor’s Harbour, said Jason.

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South Wemyss Bight Homecoming/ North North Eleuthera Regatta :

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A look back at Heroes Day Weekend

Bahamian performing artist, Stileet, entertaining the crowd in Wemyss Bight.

Friday night, October 5th, 2018, in Wemyss Bight during the Heroes Day holiday weekend, was an enjoyable affair, with a good crowd out enjoying the relaxed atmosphere at the Homecoming Event in south Eleuthera. The Rum Runners band crooned classic easy listening Bahamian favorites well into the late evening, before turning the entertainment over to Bahamian performing artist, Stileet, who picked up the pace with a series of original hit songs, just at about midnight.

At the northern tip of the island, the 29th Annual North Eleuthera Regatta staged a strong showing during the holiday weekend, with a healthy crowd of residents and visitors on Harbour Island to take in the sailing races during the day, and the down home entertainment at the Regatta site during the evening. On Saturday night, the crowds in Harbour Island were treated to cultural dances, and a ramped up performance by Stileet, backed up by Fanshawn Taylor, and the host 1-2-3 band. The exContinued On Page 36

An enjoyable girls’ night out at the Wemyss Bight Homecoming, during the Heroes Day holiday weekend.

Struggle Sampling down-home delicacies out at the Wemyss Bight Homecoming.

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Soothing music, good friends, welcoming atmosphere and those most beautiful Eleuthera smiles at the 2018 Wemyss Bight Homecoming.

Continued from pg. 35 citement continued on Sunday evening with D-Mac, Wendi and Dyson in the lineup.

Barry Wilmot, Manager for the Regatta Desk in New Providence, commented that the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources was proud to be the major sponsor for the North Eleuthera Regatta sailing component, saying, “We realize that the North Eleuthera Regatta was in a lull for about two years, and this is a comeback,

with the theme, “We Jammin’ Still!” We wanted to do as much as we could to really put them back on the market. We understand that a number of years ago this was ‘The’ Regatta that everybody looked forward to… The Ministry is committed to all of the Family Island regattas, and it’s an economic boost for the residents and the country itself… We support the North Eleuthera Regatta, and whatever it takes to make it successful, the Ministry is committing to that.”

This year’s North Eleuthera Regatta hosted four (4)

competing boats in the B class division, including; the Barbarian, Cobra, Queen Drucilla, and Eudeva, as well as six (6) C class division boats, including; the Flash, Jacob’s, Sweet Island Gal, Barbarian, San Sally, and Revelation. Awards were presented to the top finishers during the weekend racing on Sunday evening, October 7th, with both cash prizes and trophies up for grabs. Top spot in the B class division was taken by the crew of the ‘Eudeva’, and ‘Sweet Island Gal’ beat out the other vessels competing in the C class division.

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We Still Jammin’:

“The 29th Annual North Eleuthera Regatta staged a strong showing during the holiday weekend, with a healthy crowd of residents and visitors on Harbour Island to take in the sailing races during the day, and the down home entertainment at the Regatta site during the evening. On Saturday night, the crowds in Harbour Island were treated to cultural dances, and a ramped up performance by Stileet, backed up by Fanshawn Taylor, and the host 1-2-3 band.”

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