Volume 12, Issue 09 /12, 2019 web: WWW.ELEUTHERANEWS.COM
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3 World TOP RANKED track athletes Given a warm welcome by Eleuthera Students; fresh from 2019 World Championships in Doha;
Silver Medal bearing ‘Uibo-Miller’ couple & Abaco’s Gold medalist ‘Gardiner’
New Central Eleuthera Administrator: 14
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Story On Page 4 ADVICE:
20 (...FRENEMIES ) ; 13 (Straight Talk...) |
Opinion & ADVICE:
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PM Minnis announces deployment of Government Workers in recovery and reconstruction 6 weeks after Hurricane Dorian’s Wrath
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The central Government is deploying hundreds of government personnel from every ministry and major agency on the ground to coordinate and to help with Hurricane recovery and reconstruction, Prime Minister the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis told reporters on October 21 at a press conference. To help accommodate the largest deployment of government workers in the history of the country in the aftermath of a
natural disaster, RV trailers have been brought in to house critical personnel on the island of Abaco. “We are ensuring security on the ground. Those who break the law will be prosecuted. Law and order are essential for rebuilding,” said Prime Minister Minnis. “We have had to reestablish the workings and the instruments of
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For The NATIONAL RECORD
23 What’s Happening - Upcoming. 36/8 Crime Reports
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Continued On Page 29 BACK COVER: Damianos Sotheby’s International PAGE 3: Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty PAGE 5: HG Christie
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World Champions Visit Eleuthera Schools
Star athletes, Shaunae, Steven and Maicel, share smiles as a young CEHS student gets up close and personal with their gold and silver medals.
2019 gold medal world champion in the men’s 400m, Steven Gardiner of Abaco; silver medal world champion in the women’s 400m, Shaunae Miller of New Providence; along with her husband - silver medal world champion in the men’s decathlon, Maicel Uibo of Estonia - were all in Eleuthera on Thursday, October
17th, 2019, visiting with a number of schools in the Central area. The trio of champions, fresh from the recently completed IAAF World Athletic Championships in Doha, Qatar, Sept. 27th to October 6th, 2019, arrived on
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Diabetes Mellitus, the Fifth Leading Cause of Death in The Bahamas By Llonella Gilbert
NASSAU, The Bahamas -- Minister of Health, the Hon. Dr. Duane Sands said Diabetes Mellitus is a devastating and costly non-communicable disease and is the fifth leading cause of death in The Bahamas. “The prevalence of diabetes increased from 6.7 per cent to 9.2 per cent in 2005, and has now reached epidemic proportions at 13.6 per cent in 2019. Our rate stands at 37.9 deaths per 100,000 persons due to diabetes,” Dr. Sands said at the Bahamas Podiatric Medical Association, in conjunction with the Academy of Minimally Invasive Foot and Ankle Surgery’s 2nd Annual International Podiatry Conference held at Melia Nassau Beach resort, Friday, October 25, 2019. He noted that many persons with uncontrolled diabetes
experience foot and ankle ailments and complications. The Health Minister explained that every year, more than one million people with diabetes lose at least a part of their lower limb. “Globally, this means, a person is losing a lower limb every 20 seconds. This can be a source of added emotional suffering plus additional costs to the individual and the system that provides the necessary health care.” He stated that prevention of foot ulcers is an important priority in Podiatric Medicine and for the diabetic patient. It is reported that 85 per cent of all amputations are preceded by an ulcer and can thus be prevented. “The chances of a person dying once they have contractAbove: Minister of Health, the Hon. Dr. Duane Sands brought opening remarks at the Bahamas Podiatric Medical Association, in conjunction with the Academy of Minimally Invasive Foot and Ankle Surgery’s 2nd Annual International Podiatry Conference held at Melia Nassau Beach resort, Friday, October 25, 2019. (BIS Photos/Derek Smith)
ed a diabetic foot ulcer or had an amputation jumps by almost 50 per cent. This rate is much higher than for persons with prostate cancer, breast cancer and Hodgkin Lymphoma. With these statistics in mind, care for the diabetic patient is a team effort, and requires a multidisciplinary approach.” Dr. Sands said podiatry services were reinstated in the public sector one year ago. Since then, almost 700 patients were treated between the ages of three months to 98 years. Twenty-seven per cent of the patients seen, were diabetics. He added that of these diabetics, 60 per cent were treated for a diabetic foot with ingrown toenails and wounds, and 40 per cent had chronic venous ulcers. The Health Minister stated that there were 161 minor surgeries performed at the public clinics. The most common procedures performed were wound debridement and nail surgery. “Procedures that could not be carried out at the clinic were referred to the Accident and Emergency Department of the Princess Margaret Hospital. Over 20 referrals were made which included limb threatening infections and other emergencies.” He explained that research has proven that well-trained podiatrists positively impact the lives of patients by saving limbs, promoting and maintaining mobility, limiting lower extremity amputations and reducing healthcare costs. “As true as this statement can be, the reality is, there is a severe shortage of podiatrists in the country. Currently four podiatrists are being shared between the public and private sectors. Dr. Sands said, “You can just imagine how stressed these professionals were in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian after seeing so many presenting themselves with foot and lower extremity injuries! This presented a clear challenge to the healthcare system. Despite the obvious shortage, I take this opportunity to commend the accomplishments of all podiatrists in The Bahamas, especially during the time of our most recent national crisis.”
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CARICOM CANNOT ABANDON HAITI DESPITE THE PRESIDENT’S FAILURE TO RESPOND TO OFFERS
(CARICOM) cannot be criticised for inaction, but questions must be asked about others in the hemispheric community who have been silent about the political and humanitarian situation in the country. For instance, apart from an unusually vague statement issued by Luis Almagro, the Secretary-General of the Organization of American States (OAS) on 15 October, the Organization which has been active in other countries has been conspicuously silent. Over the last few months, there have been continuous protests in Haiti by large groups of people expressing dissatisfaction over the governance of the country. The President, Jovenel Moïse, has been unable to establish By Sir Ronald Sanders a stable government. Persons whom he has (The writer is Ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda named to the posts of Prime Minister and to the United States and the Organisation of Ameri- Ministers have been roundly rejected by the Senate whose approval of their appointcan States. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Instiments is necessary. tute of Commonwealth Studies at the University of In July this year, at their Regular Meeting London and at Massey College in the University of of the Conference of Heads of Government, Toronto. The views expressed are entirely his own) CARICOM Heads discussed their concern about mounting protests in Haiti. President Moïse had made his usual cameo appear(The writer is Ambassador of Antigua and ance at the conference, turning up for the Barbuda to the United States and the Orgaformal opening ceremony and departing benization of American States. He is also a Sefore the business of the meeting took place. nior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth This time he left Foreign Minister Bocchit Studies at the University of London and at Edmond with the responsibility to explain the Massey College in the University of Toronto. situation in Haiti. The views expressed are entirely his own) When the Heads expressed a desire to send a three-man Prime Ministerial team Haiti is in turmoil again. This time the “to inform the Community of the situation countries of the Caribbean Community
in that country”, the Haitian Foreign Minister attempted to dissuade them, contending, incorrectly, that the OAS had already sent a team to Haiti and, since CARICOM countries are members of the OAS, CARICOM had no need to send a team of its own. Of course, the truth is that no authorised OAS team has been sent to Haiti since 2015. The team to which Foreign Minister Edmond referred was a self-appointed visit by the US Ambassador to the OAS, Carlos Trujillo, as the outgoing Chairman of the OAS Permanent Council. He announced to a working group at the OAS, on a subject that had nothing to do with Haiti, that he was accepting an invitation from Edmond to visit Haiti. To date, no official invitation has ever been seen by the Permanent Council of the OAS and that Council – the only body with the power to do so – has never authorised Ambassador Trujillo’s visit. In any event, CARICOM Heads were insistent that a visit should be made and the CARICOM Secretary-General was instructed to write to President Moïse, indicating their wish to send a Prime Ministerial team to explore steps that could be taken, including mediation, to help resolve the political impasse and the civil disturbances. To date, Moïse,has not responded, even though Haiti is a member state of CARICOM with binding obligations to the Organization. This led the current Chair of the CARICOM Heads of Government, Prime Minister Allen Chastanet of St Lucia, to tell a Jamaica newspaper on October 15 that CARICOM is deeply concerned over the protracted political crisis in Haiti and is awaiting the country’s imprimatur for a good offices Prime Ministerial delegation to visit. To be clear, CARICOM countries, acting as a group, adhere to a strict policy of non-interference and non-intervention in the internal affairs of states, as set out in the Charters of the United Nations and the OAS. Therefore, CARICOM Heads were careful to seek the agreement of President Moïse to accept a visit by three of his colleagues. Their objective was to serve the best interests of Haiti, including by engaging members of the Senate, political parties, nongovernmental organizations and the private sector. In the absence of any response by President Moise to their request to visit Haiti, CARICOM Heads clearly must assume that they would be unwelcome. This has implications for Haiti’s membership of the Community, and, in time, that should be a matter for review by CARICOM governments. In the meantime, the situation in Haiti worsens. On October 16, four members resigned from a seven-
member commission President Moïse had appointed earlier this month to “lead discussions” to find a “concerted solution to the crisis”. Significantly, the four who announced their resignations were: former prime minister Evans Paul (2015-2016); Josué Pierre-Louis, general coordinator of the human resource management office attached to the prime minister’s office; Liné Sainphor Balthazar, president of the ruling Parti Haïtien Tèt Kale (PHTK); and former defence minister Jean Rodolphe Joazile (2012-2014). This clearly demonstrates deep schisms in the governing party and the government itself. As the reason for their resignations, the four pointed to declarations, made by Moïse at a press conference, on October
open holidays
15, which appeared to contradict claims by Paul that, as part of the discussions, Moïse’s continuing as President would be on the table for discussion. But, Moïse told the media that resigning would be “irresponsible”. Remarkably, he also blamed the constitution and parliament for the current crisis. The resignations effectively end the commission. No means of dialogue now exist between the President and opposition groups that want him to resign as a precon-
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ADVI c E STRAIGHT TALK WITH JACQUES CHRISTOFILIS Mike - Is this something that would call for a professional inspection? Jacques - It would certainly help to have a professional inspection if you are not sure what you are looking for. Mike - Given the severity of recent hurricanes and global warming, what advice would you give to people buying homes in the Bahamas? (Building inspector Jacques Christofilis has over 25 years’ experience in the construction and residential building trades, as well as industrial and mechanical plant maintenance. His Dunright Inspections has been doing real estate inspections in the Bahamas for over 15 years).
Jacques - Get a professional home inspection prior to purchase. In addition to that, I would advise buyers to look for a home built to the highest standards of recent building codes. Hurricane impact windows and doors are a must.
What code violations do you think the Ministry of Works is primarily referring to? Jacques - All of the building codes, as they all tie into each other. But in particular, concrete block homes on raised foundations (rather than slab on grade) are advised for hurricane prone areas in the event of flooding. Mike – It’s been suggested that roofs have been installed without hurricane straps. How can a homeowner tell if hurricane straps anchor their roof? Jacques - You need to go into the attic and check to see if the rafters have metal hurricane clips properly attached to the roof plate. There should be two clips per rafter end, one on the left, one on the right, secured with the adequate number of nails, as indicated by the perforated holes in the metal plate.
Commentary-
Just because you have hurricane impact windows doesn’t mean they are rated to withstand debris impact from major hurricanes, such as Irma, Matthew and Joaquin. A gold-standard in testing is the MiamiDade County hurricane impact test. Miami Dade is a ”high velocity standard zone” and the products that pass this test are top of the line. Don’t get duped by a salesperson’s pitch; determine the rating of the product you’re interested in before buying. Proper Installation
Hurricane impact windows – and doors are a great invention. They are typically made of an impact resistant glass that deflects flying objects. A growing number of property owners are installing them, especially in hurricane belts such as the Bahamas. Once installed, the windows and doors are always in place, offering continuous protection from flying debris. The wind can’t get behind the windows to dislodge them. So theoretically, there’s no need to put up hurricane shutters. (However, if you live in a low-lying coastal area, consider using both in a major hurricane). If you’re selling your home, hurricane impact windows are a great selling feature. However, as with everything, there is a caveat. Good impact resistant windows are expensive. And while they can offer amazing protection, nothing is fool proof.
Ronald Sanders
Continued from Page. 12 dition for talks. In the meantime, 30 people have been killed during five weeks of protests, and there is no sign of the turbulence easing. On the same day that Moïse announced that his resignation is not an option, the UN Mission for Justice Support in Haiti (Minujusth) left the country. There is now no peacekeeping presence in Haiti. A smaller, non-peacekeeping force, the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), is now in place, but how effective it can be is left to be seen. It is operating in an atmosphere
There are various standards of hurricane impact windows.
Mike – Thanks for your input. Hurricane Impact Windows
Mike – Jacques, we’ve heard that a significant number of homes destroyed by Hurricane Dorian weren’t up to the Bahamas’ building code.
Different Grades
in which the opposition forces do not trust the role of powerful countries that have intervened in the country for their own purposes in the past, including by installing governments they favour. What is certain is that the CARICOM countries cannot and should not abandon the people of Haiti. CARICOM, therefore, should continue its efforts to get a team into Haiti to talk with all parties – government, opposition and the private sector. Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com
You can have the strongest hurricane
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By Mike Lightbourn
impact resistant window in the world, but what good is that if it isn’t secured properly? Hurricane impact resistant windows are surrounded by a heavy-duty frame that’s firmly anchored to the interior window header and frame. They MUST be installed and sealed properly according to the manufacturer’s installation specifications. In Florida, the installation is inspected to make sure they comply with the manufacturer’s requirements before an occupancy permit is issued.
Questions or comments? Contact me at info@cbbahamas.com (Mike Lightbourn is president of Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty).
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Ready to Make a Difference New Administrator for Central Eleuthera, Whelma Colebrook, hit the ground running as she took up office in Governor’s Harbour during mid-October. As a well-networked former professional athlete, and a sports enthusiast, within days of her arrival, she had facilitated a one-day visit to the island by World Championships star athletes Steven Gardiner, Shaunae Miller-Uibo, and her husband, Maicel Uibo - who visited with all of the schools in Central Eleuthera. Then she immediately began working with her staff, the Ministry of Youth and the Eleuthera Youth Council to plan Youth Month events. “Right now, here in Central Eleuthera, we have a committee for Youth Month, and we are planning a Fun/Run/Walk in partnership with the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture. I like to be active right away... With the Fun/Run/Walk, we are going to have a raffle with a bicycle and round trip tickets already up for grabs, and we’ll see what other awards and prizes we are going to have, as we have people working on more prizes.” Activities like this she opined, brings the community together, “You just have to make it interesting... The healthier a community is, the more productive it will be.” At the end of the walk, said Administrator Colebrook, there would be fruits and hydrating drinks and water, as well as local nurses doing free blood pressure and glucose testing. For all that she has already been involved in, just during her first two weeks, this new posting, shared Administrator Colebrook, was her very first time ever in Eleuthera, other than the oneday handover visit with former Administrator Gilbert Kemp at the end of September. In addition to her athletic career, Ms. Colebrook worked within the Ministry of Finance for 20 years, only changing her career path in 2009, when she became a Family Island Administrator. She completed her Administrator training in Abaco, under Mr. Cephas Cooper, before taking up her first posting as Administrator in Marsh Harbour for three and a half years. She then went south to Inagua, serving there for two and a half years, before returning to Abaco - this time in the north - which included Grand Cay and Green Turtle Cay, she explained. South Andros and then Mangrove Cay over a period of two years, were her last postings, before being transferred at the end of September 2019 to the Central Eleuthera District. Commenting on her varied experiences in the three islands where she has been posted, since her start in 2009, Ms. Colebrook described, “All islands have their unique qualities. In Abaco, they had the second home owners and a vibrant business community; in Inagua they have the salt industry; and Andros has the fishing industry.” In Eleuthera, she shared that in the short time she has been here, she has had an opportunity to visit the famed Glass Window bridge, during the brief tour by the World Championships athletes when they visited on October 17th. “When I first got here, I got a call that Mrs. Miller-Uibo wanted to come over. I told them, I’m no longer
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Whelma Colebrook New Central Eleuthera Administrator
in Andros, so, they came to Eleuthera to visit. I asked them to come to the schools to motivate the students, because being in sports and being an athlete myself, there were persons who motivated me.” Administrator Colebrook said there were two larger than life mentors in her life, both household names, who had left their indelible marks, and pushed her to be where she was today. “Thomas ‘Tommy’ Robinson, actually encouraged me to be an Administrator, and the reason why, he said - was to give back. So, normally what I would do is - see how best I could assist and how I could help to build the different sporting programs, wherever I am... Through sports, you can bring your community together. So, I normally rely on my sporting background to try and bring people and the community together.” Ms. Colebrook met Frank ‘Pancho’ Rahming in grade seven. “He was my P.E. teacher, and he saw that I had talent. So, he pushed me to that level, and then I met Tommy Robinson, who came along and also motivated me, and I started my track career there. I was invited to compete in the Carifta games, and I set a new national record in the 800m. I was also the first Bahamian woman to ever get a medal in the 800m, and I held the national record for sixteen (16) years. I went on to represent the country for 25 years, which I enjoyed - I participated in the Carifta games, in the CAC games, as well as the World Championships.” At the World Championships in Helsinki in 1983, Colebrook ran the 4x 100m relay, with colleagues, Shonel Ferguson, Maryann Higgs, Oralee Fowler and Debbie Green, she shared. Tommy Robinson, was a father figure, described Administrator Colebrook, “He motivated me, and even up to my interview to become an Administrator, he showed up - made sure that I was on time. He also waited until after the interview. I promised him that I would give back. So, whichever island I go on, I tend to look around to see how much I can make a difference... In Inagua, when the Bahamas hosted the World Relays, I had a track program going on there... Pancho Rahming had called me and asked what I was doing down there in Inagua. So, I put together a track team, and used to go out there and work with them... We also had eight (8) children in Inagua who had the opportunity to go off to school on athletic scholarships.” During the first day of teacher’s professional days - on Wednesday, October 23rd, Administrator Colebrook was asked by District Superintendent, Myrtle McPhee, to speak to the Physical Education (PE) teachers as a group, to see how best to motivate them. Her overarching message to them, she said, was one of selfdetermination and initiative, “I told them that we sit down and wait for the government to do everything. There are so many islands, and so many schools. And there is only so much that the government can do. What we put in, we get out. If nothing is put in, we get nothing out. “The best way to move, I told them, was to tap into their communities, and into the business community. They were encouraged to get together as a group, and decide what it was they
Central Eleuthera Administrator: Whelma Colebrook
needed, then to take that to the business community - saying how best we can motivate our kids. Government cannot do everything. We also just had a major hurricane hit, and resources are limited. So, at this point, rather than sitting and waiting - tap into resources available locally, to see how best they can also help the schools. “We, as Bahamians, need to also help ourselves, and then government may chip in. People say, we need this and we need that, but the question to ask, is what are you doing for your community? We should ask - how best can we make a difference? Wherever I can inspire, and whatever I can do to make that difference, I’m there. I told the PE teachers, that yes, I can talk about track, because track is my passion. I rock track, however, we all have talents in different ways. Whatever talent you have, use that, and that will make room for you and make a way for you.” When asked about the official role that she was being asked to take up in her new posting as Family Island Administrator in Central Eleuthera, Ms. Colebrook smiled, and explained that the job description of an Administrator is vast, with responsibility for a slew of organizations and activities within the community. As the eyes and ears of the central government in the islands, she said, “Normally, they (central government) would call us, to find out about what is going on in the different communities.” The role she outlined, included, but was not limited to: coordinating all central government matters and activities; the general administration of staff; personnel matters; parliamentary matters; facilitating the implementation of matters emanating from the Local Government Authority; revenue collection officer for all ports of entry, ware-
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Eleutheran broadcasting pioneer, Mr. Calsey Johnson, dies at 82
The Broadcasting Corporation of the Bahamas (ZNS) released the following statement on Thursday, October 24th, 2019, after learning about the passing away, early on Thursday morning, of 82 year-old Broadcast pioneer, former Senator and High Commissioner, Dr. Calsey Johnson. Dr. Johnson, has been noted as being especially proud to be a son of Eleuthera, from the settlement of Hatchet Bay. “Today is a very sad day for the Broadcasting fraternity and the family of The Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas (aka ZNS), as we learned early this morning of the passing of a Broadcast pioneer, Former Senator and High Commissioner, Dr. Calsey Johnson. Dr. Johnson’s tenure at ZNS was long, varied and one for the promotion of excellence in broadcasting. He along with several others were instrumental in the development of Radio and the introduction of Television Broadcasting in The Bahamas. His first career break came in 1966, when he traveled to Kingston, Jamaica to cover the 8th British Empire and Commonwealth Games. In 1969, Calsey was awarded a twoyear in-service scholarship to study Broadcast Journalism and Radio/Television Production at Ryerson Polytechnical Institute, Toronto, Canada. On his return in 1971, he was appointed News Director. In 1972, he conceived and hosted the
Continued from Page. 14 house custodian for all warehousing ports, accounting officer for the purpose of the Financial Administration & Audit Act; disbursement of funds; also functions assigned to Passport, Environmental Health, Fisheries and Port Officer under the relevant Acts; marriage officer; notary public; preparation of affidavits, marriage officer licenses and other legal documents; lay magistrate (in the district where there is no resident or circuit magistrate); and coordinator of activities between Departments and Corporations of government. Now well versed in her role, after a decade traversing the islands, Administrator Colebrook summed up, “It’s up to us to help to build our communities, and to make a difference to give feedback, to motivate, to inspire - especially our youth. I know
Radio programme “Contract.” In that year, he also inaugurated “Tell It Like It Is” a one-hour programme with Cabinet Ministers as guests. He also hosted the programme, “Action Line.” In 1972, he was chosen by the Broadcasting Corporation to launch ZNS’ Northern Service located in Freeport, Grand Bahama. Dr. Johnson worked in Freeport for two years as Station Manager and he maintained the same title when he returned to Nassau in 1974. Shortly afterwards, he was promoted to General Manager of the Corporation. For Dr. Johnson, the introduction of Television in The Bahamas on July 10th, 1977 was considered one of the highlights of his career. Later that year, on October 20th, 1977 ZNS-TV was officially opened by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. After his fourteen-year stint as General Manager, from 2002-2007, Dr. Johnson became the Executive Chairman of The Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas. Upon his retirement from the Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas, Dr. Johnson spent time in business and then in politics, where he served as Senator and Bahamas High Commissioner in Ottawa, Canada. On behalf of the Executive Chairman, Board of Directors, Management and Staff of The Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas (past and present), we send our sincerest condolences to Mrs. Johnson and the entire Johnson family on the passing of a Bahamian broadcast giant.” Source: Executive Management The Broadcasting Corporation of the Bahamas (ZNS) October 24th, 2019
everyone will probably say, ‘she focuses more on the youth’, but, without our youth - they are coming up, and we are going down. So, whatever it takes to uplift, because there were ones who were there for me - who motivated me, inspired me, and made me who I am. I can truly say, thank God, for my mentors, like Thomas Augustus Robinson. Thank God for my parents, who instilled standards and morals within me, and also for Frank Pancho Rahming, who is like a father figure to me. Up to today we still stay in contact... I remember, before I would compete if I hadn’t heard Tommy or Pancho’s voices, I didn’t feel ready to compete - I had to call them before hitting the track - just for that little inspiration. So, I know how it is. If you can come into your community to make a difference, then, why not?”
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Retired Educator, Rosetta E. Gibson Celebrated
Mrs. Rosetta Edna Gibson of Savannah Sound, Eleuthera - long serving Educator since 1956, was honoured in September 2019, with the Prime Minister of the Bahamas proclaiming Friday, 27th September to Sunday, 29th September as “Rosetta E. Gibson Weekend”. She was celebrated by family, friends and colleagues with a special Banquet on the Friday, followed by a Community Culture Show on Saturday, with celebrations climaxing with a Service of Thanksgiving on Sunday, 29th September, hosted at the Methodist Church in her hometown. At the service Mrs. Gibson was presented with numerous gifts and tokens of love, by family, church and professional colleagues. Mrs. Gibson, standing on stage at the front of the church, overlooking the crowd of people who had come out to support her, responded after receiving the showers of gifts and loving testimonials, thanking everyone who had taken the time to come and celebrate with her, saying, “What a lovely, lovely picture. I appreciate all of you. There is so much to say, but I think all those tesArticle Continued Page 17
The Methodist Church in Savannah Sound was packed to capacity on Sunday, September 29th, with family, friends and colleagues of Mrs. Rosetta E. Gibson to celebrate and honour her lifetime of accomplishments and her long service in Education.
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Dr. Graham Cates is bringing Family Medicine Center to Eleuthera
The service on Sunday was followed by a brief ceremony on the grounds of timonials, spoke to that. I’m so happy Windermere High School, during which, that you are all here this afternoon. I the main classroom block was renamed in Mrs. Gibson’s honour, where she truly appreciate it, as it makes your spent many years, serving as Principal burdens lighter. So, thank you all for of the school, until her retirement earlier coming.” this year. Continued from Page. 16
During the service of Thanksgiving at the Methodist church in Savannah Sound, Mrs. Gibson was presented with numerous gifts and tokens of love by family and friends.
Mrs. Rosetta Gibson (center) stands with Mrs. Audrea Scavella-Clarke (left) and Mr. Stanley Schrag (right) as she revealed the plaque commemorating the renaming of the school block in her honour.
Dr. Zenna Friend, Lead Family Physician, Family Medicine Center Rock Sound.
Dr. Graham Cates has announced that a new Family Medicine Center (FMC) clinic will be opening in Rock Sound, Eleuthera. The new clinic is expected to begin welcoming patients in mid-November 2019. The new state of the art facility is located on Queens Highway and will provide comprehensive services for all ages, including family medicine; primary care; urgent care; outpatient services; and diabetes care; as well as featuring a full-service onsite pharmacy, X-ray and ultrasound. Specialty services provided at Family Medicine Center’s primary facility headquartered in Nassau, will also be made available at the Rock Sound location. “I am truly pleased to bring Family Medicine Center to Eleuthera,” said Dr Graham Cates, who was born and raised in Rock Sound. “We are excited to make our services available through this new clinic, which has been custom-designed to meet the healthcare needs of Eleuthera.” Leading the team of FMC’s expansion into Eleuthera is Dr. Zenna Friend, from Wemyss Bight, Eleuthera. Dr. Friend is a Family Physician and will be working alongside Paramedic Jai Leal, who has worked in Eleuthera since early 2013. In keeping with Dr. Cates’ vision, the new clinic will place strong emphasis on compassionate, personalised, comprehensive family care, disease prevention, and chronic disease management with a focus on diabetes. “I am delighted to be the attending physician in Eleuthera, and look forward to working at home, in this beautiful community and environment, helping people get well, stay well, and live healthier,” said Dr. Friend. “With the opening of this clinic in Rock Sound, we are making a commitment to be a valued and trusted community partner,” said Dr. Cates. “We are looking forward not only to providing excellent ongoing healthcare but also working together with established healthcare providers in the community towards our shared efforts to help heal, promote health and wellness and improve the quality of life.” The Family Medicine Center Rock Sound, Eleuthera clinic is expected to open in mid-November and is available to everyone. For more information contact (242) 334-2500 or visit www.familymedicinecenter.org
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L evy ’ s 7 th A nnual H alloween E vent (2019) Scores of youth, male and female, of all ages and sizes, from throughout Central and South Eleuthera were out at the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve on The Banks Road in Governor’s Harbour, on Saturday night, October 26th, for the Spooktacular 2019, sporting any number of costumed ensembles, from the fairy tales to the frightening. The annual event, now in its’ seventh year, is held by the Rotaract Club of Eleuthera in partnership with the Levy Preserve and volunteers from The Island School, as a fundraiser for Rotaract’s community service projects. The Halloween themed - social night had the standard servings of delicious food and treats, an ungraded scary adventure along a newly imagined fright trail, and a colourful Spooktacular costume fashion faceoff. Heidi Johnson, Manager at the Preserve, commented in 2018, that they
If you didn’t come prepared, Levy personnel were on hand to create just the right face.
It was quite the social event as young people awaited their turn to take in the Spooktacular trail.
Fashion statements from the pretty and colourful to the fabulous and frightening made the evening pop..
Concession stands with no shortage of young clientele were part of the fund-raising efforts.
were anticipating a bigger and better event in 2019, with even more fear factor, and the hosts did not disappoint. Particular emphasis had been placed on the coordination and timing with the signature Spooktacular Trail, to ensure that everyone who wanted to, got a chance to experience it, and that things ran as smoothly as possible. Justin Taylor, Rotoract president, commenting on the overwhelmingly successful evening, shared, “We’ve been do-
ing this now for the last seven years, and it’s a must do for the kids.” The evening climaxed with the costume faceoff, and as opposed to last year’s ear-ringing crowd judging, three silent judges decided the top costumes in the children’s and adult’s categories. The many parents who accompanied many of the younger attendees at the event this year, sat back and relaxed, and seemed to fully appreciate the night of familyfriendly, scary fun.
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Creative costumes in the fashion faceoff.
Tricky photo opportunities were also on hand.
Reliving moments of fun fright after the trek along the spooky trail.
Smiles all around.
Faces on the spooky trail.
Levy Preserve and Rotaract partners ensured the evening was well organized.
Fun costumes.
Winners in the adult and kids costume competitions.
20 www. EleutheraNews . com
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RELATIONSHIPS: Rebounding from Frenemies Encountering Friendly Fire
By Teri M. Bethel When you are going through a distressing situation in your marriage, it’s quite easy to confide in those closest to you. Sometimes it’s a friend, a co-worker or family—but is that a wise thing do to? Have you considered the character of the person you are confiding in? After all, just because they are relationally close doesn’t mean they have your best interest at heart. A lady (we’ll call her Maggie) was heartbroken over the mistreatment she endured from her husband. Day after day, Maggie confided in her best friend until one day her husband replaced her… with her best friend. Five years later, Maggie continued to grieve. Not for her husband who tossed her out and kept her two young kids, but because her estranged children were now being raised by the two people who hurt her. Encounters of the heart are sometimes weighty, in fact, you may wonder if you can bear another day of relationship disappointments. For some, life has gone from one drama to the next. Scattered bullets from people you loved or trusted are taking a toll. During this season of assault, you can become so weighed down by the cares of this world that you have difficulty seeing beyond the present darkness. It’s at these times you need to take the hand of a trusted person who can offer you wise counsel to draw you out of your situation.
Friendly fire, in military terms, is a mistaken attack by one’s own force on themselves while trying to attack the enemy. According to Wikipedia friendly fires, range between 2 and 20 percent of casualties in a battle; in the Vietnam War, there were about 8,000 friendly fire incidents. While we expect this in war zones, our marriages should not be a battlefront. Any casualty in war is painful and unfortunate, the question is, however, how can this be minimized between couples who promised to love and cherish each other before the “death do us part” kicks in? In marriages, friendly fire can happen through miscommunication or misunderstandings that have gotten out of control. Mark Baer a conflict resolution lawyer, and contributing writer on Coparenter.com, estimated that as many as 90 percent of all conflicts result from misunderstandings. Perhaps when disputes arise, we should be level headed and assess to what degree we misunderstood and seek to resolve the issue before inviting others in. Intentional Fire Even more painful than the loss of family and comrades during wartimes is the deliberate fire from people close to you. In such cases, it is perhaps more accurate to call it frenemy fire. Fire from enemies who have disguised themselves as friends as in the case of the friend who commandeered Maggie’s husband. What is necessary to navigate through such challenges in life is a hearty dose of discernment and the ability to remain level headed when a battle rages. Like President George W. Bush, you learn to duck when a shoe is being thrown at you, then you continue doing your job. Rather than being discerning, however, many people are taken in by the superficial without taking the time to determine the heart of the person they are confiding in.
Predators In Your Back Yard Folks camping in the wild would often create a fire for their warmth, visibility, and protection. They know that wild animals are kept at bay because of the flickering flames. Today, many families are left unprotected because there’s no fire to keep their attackers at bay. Relational prayers with the God of Heaven is the fire or the hedge of protection around you and your family. Without it, you have no shelter; this is an open door for predators. A common means of inviting predators or frenemies into your marriage is by making your private business public. Many do so by discussing personal matters with friends, co-workers, and acquaintances without realizing that not everyone has honorable intentions. There are times when your private business becomes a crime of opportunity. By discussing your concerns with certain individuals, you are exposing cracks in your family’s wall for the enemy to slip through. Handling A Painful Or Abusive Situation Film producer Tyler Perry has made the hot grits treatment a seemingly simple fix to life’s problems in a marriage, but that is not something you should entertain as a possible solution. When you feel a sense of rage bubbling to the fore, violence in any manner is not the answer. As Mike Murdoch aptly puts it, every problem in life is a wisdom problem. There is a scripture in the book of James that says that if you lack wisdom, you can ask for it and receive it. You can also seek guidance from your pastor, read an excellent marriage enrichment book, or consult with a professional counselor. When frenemies attack, you can choose to use wisdom in responding, or you can yield to negative emotional outbursts which will invariably take you down a painful road. Reclaim Your Peace It may seem insensitive to encour-
age someone to let go of their gripe, however, in situations of this nature, it’s important to forgive those who hurt you to allow your heart to heal. Forgiving a frenemy doesn’t mean you are restoring that relationship; it means you’re reclaiming your peace. You have decided to cut the weight loose and not take any unnecessary baggage on your journey ahead. Unforgiveness keeps you bound, it’s like tying a corpse to your shoulders and wondering why everyone smells. Although you may have gotten accustomed to the stench and the flies, it erodes your relationships. You’ve already been robbed, don’t allow the situation to steal your peace of mind and the joy you could be experiencing in life. How To Rebound From Frenemies To rebound from frenemies, you cannot focus on them; focus on the way forward with you and your spouse if that is the path you will take. Acknowledge your part in the fiasco and make the necessary adjustments to avoid repeating it. Skip the pity party and invite Heaven into your life. You will have to look up, reach up, get up, and move on. Life is not always fair; quite frankly it can get ugly and painful, but you can choose to grovel with frenemies, or you can take the high road and work towards a healthy relationship with your spouse. A bout
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Teri M. Bethel is an artist, handbag designer, and publisher. She is also the author of relationship enrichment books which include: Before We Say, I Do… and My Marriage Matters. Teri has also published romance and adventure novels, purse making and fabric painting DVDs which seek to entertain, empower, and promote healthy lifestyles for adults and children. Additionally, Teri provides a free online directory for local authors to showcase their family-friendly books. She and her husband have two adult sons. Visit her website, www.BooksByBethel. com, or e-mail her at tbethel@booksbybethel.com.
21 Lo c a l Dedicated Core come out to support Cancer Survivors & Victims at CSE’s Signature ‘Walk For A Cure’ 2019
A dedicated group of twenty walkers were up during the early hours on Saturday morning, October 26th, 2019 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 at 6am for a session of stretching and warming up, before heading out shortly before 6:30am for the 4 mile trek to the Cancer Society’s Wellness Center in Palmetto Point, where hot chicken souse, and fresh fruit choices awaited the successful finishers.
Retired Head Nurse and Cancer Society President, Mrs. Sherrin Cooper, following the walk, expressed “I am pleased with the event this morning, and I’m also happy that First Caribbean International Bank and Royal Bank both partnered with us... I find that if people know that their friends are walking, or their co-workers they tend to show a little more interest - like the banks have done this morning. For that reason, I feel that will be the route to go.” For next year’s walk, the President said, her team would aim at getting more people up and out in support of cancer survivors and those dealing with cancer on the island.
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October 27th, 2019 and a cookout at the grounds of the Cancer Society’s Wellness Center on Friday, November 1st, 2019, wrapped up the month of breast cancer awareness and fundraising events.
The public was encouraged to give throughout the year, not just during fundraisers, said Mrs. Cooper, adding that donations were welcomed at any time for the ongoing work. People who would like to give were encouraged to call the Eleuthera Cancer Society Wellness Center in Palmetto Point at 332-1804, which is open daily. Alternatively any of the board members could be contacted for further information, including; 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.
Explaining the dedication and passion behind their drive to help, Mrs. Cooper shared, “This event is for survivors, to encourage them, and to assist them - sometimes financially, and we also assist by giving our emotional support.” The ‘Walk For A Cure’ event was held in three locations this year. Along with the Governor’s Harbour location, both Harbour Island and Lower Bogue joined in hosting walk events at the same time on Saturday morning. The Society, during the month of October, which was observed as breast cancer awareness month, also hosted a health fair, with nurses on hand - where people were able to have their glucose levels, body mass index and blood pressure tested, as well as health counseling. Also, free clinics for pap smear and prostate testing were held in several townships. A church service at the Rock Sound Methodist church on Sunday,
Up at 6am in support of Breast Cancer Awareness month.
First to arrive - (men) Miska Clarke, (women) Latisha Bethel, and Cheryl Sands.
RBPF traffic officers were on hand to ensure the safety of walkers.
22 www. EleutheraNews . com
ROYAL CARIBBEAN PREDICTS 50 % RISE IN CRUISE PASSENGER ARRIVALS BY 2030 P resident and CEO M ichael B ayley says there ’ s great demand for innovative experiences , which the cruise line is willing to help develop
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BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (18 Oct. 2019) - Royal Caribbean International is predicting that its Caribbean cruise tourism business will grow by 50 percent by 2030, with overall economic benefit of cruise reaching $6 billion. President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Bayley told
a recent Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) outlook forum that with the region continuing to grow in popularity among cruisers - eight of the top 10 cruise destinations worldwide are in the Caribbean, he said - now is the time to prepare for further increases in cruise passenger numbers. “The Caribbean was, is, will always be, the number one cruise destination in the world,” Bayley told the gathering of ministers, chief executives, policymakers and other senior Carib-
n at i on a l bean tourism professionals at the gathering in Antigua and Barbuda. “There are considerations that we need to take into account in terms of some of the destinations’ ability to absorb the growth that is coming - in some places the growth is perhaps already at a critical mass - but we need to find a way to accommodate the growth that is inevitably coming to cruise tourism in the Caribbean,” he stressed. The Royal Caribbean CEO noted the success of the cruise line’s recent US$250 million private island destination experience in the Bahamas known as Perfect Day® at CocoCay®, saying it’s a perfect example of collaboration that benefits both the destination and the cruise line. Perfect Day at CocoCay is a unique stop on what was once called Little Stirrup Cay, but is now a privately owned island destination by Royal Caribbean , and a tropical paradise for cruisers. It offers a number of attractions, including a record-setting water slide - the tallest in the region - and a massive wave pool described by the cruise line as the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas. “Once we put this product into the market in the US and globally,
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our phones went crazy. The demand we have seen for our ships and our products that go to Cococay has been amazing,” said Bayley. “There is a lot of demand for these products and if we can figure out how to collaborate together to create these experiences, they don’t always have to have this shape and form, they can be other types of experiences”. “As we evolve in terms of our ship design and experiences and what we are creating for our customers we really believe there is a huge opportunity to take all that knowledge...and transfer it into the destinations in a very meaningful way,” he added. The Caribbean tourism outlook forum was the first organised by the CTO as a platform for discussion between member governments and leaders from the tourism industry that generate business to the region. It was attended by ministers and commissioners of tourism, directors of tourism, chief executives of destination management organisations, permanent secretaries, advisors and specialists and technical officers from 12 member countries.
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‘through NOV. 2019 highlights in NOV/DEC 2019 YOUTH MONTH - ELEUTHERA Events: Friday, November 1st, 2019 at 10 am Youth Awards Ceremony Location: Administrative Complex, Governor’s Harbour
Saturday, November 2nd, 2019 at 6am Youth Month - FUN/RUN/WALK Start: Cancer Society Wellness Center (Palmetto Point) Finish: Bayfront Park (Governor’s Harbour)
Ministry of Tourism Thanksgiving Craft & Cultural Festival Saturday, November 30th, 2019 - 10:00am until 12:00 midnight. This event is held annually in Governor’s Harbour and will showcase an array of authentically Bahamian hand made crafts and goods. There will be lots of entertainment including Junkanoo, junkanoo dancers, live band performances, fire dancing, fashion show showcasing holiday wear and other locally designed fashions. You won’t want to miss out on this event that will get you into the festive mood. Location: Bayfront Park, Queen’s Highway, Governor’s Harbour, Central Eleuthera Contact Information: Eleuthera Tourist Office (242) 332-2142
Community EVENTS Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Friday, November 1st - Cook out at Cancer Society Wellness Centre – delivery service included.
Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve Happening in November Saturday, November 23rd -
FALL FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT 6:30 - 8:30PM Enjoy movie night under the stars featuring the animated film “RIO”. Admission is $5. Popcorn and drinks will be on sale. Kids 3 and under are FREE. MOVIE STARTS AT 6:45PM SHARP Wednesday, November 27th LEVY PRESERVE FALL LECTURE SERIES 6:30 - 8:00PM. BNT Avian Science Officer Bradley Watson is our guest presenter who will be discussing habitat changes of birds in response to increasing development. Plus learn more about bird research being conducted on Eleuthera. LECTURE IS FREE For more information CALL: 332-3831
Happening in December Tuesday, December 17th -
KIDS STORY TIME & CRAFT 9:30 - 11:00AM Kids will enjoy an interactive, nature-themed story at the Preserve. Reserve their spot for a fun tie-dye craft using natural, plant-based dyes. Story is FREE. The craft costs $12 per child. Sunday, December 22nd SANTA’S ENCHANTED FOREST 2:00 - 5:00PM Celebrate the season with fine holiday fun at the Preserve, including crafts, games, treats, face painting, and a visit from Santa Claus himself. FREE.
Music in the Garden & Tree Lighting Affair: YOUTH MONTH
To be hosted by the Cancer Society of National Events: Eleuthera at the Cancer Society’s National YouthinAwards, Wellness Center PalmettoAtlantis Point on 23, 2019 at 7pmFor more Saturday,October December 7th, 2019. Youth in Parliament, House of Society Assembly information contact the Cancer of Octoberat25, 2019332-1804. at 9am Eleuthera (242)
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Holidays and Observance Days: Sunday, November 3rd Daylight Saving Time Ends Thursday, November 28th Thanksgiving Day
************ The Mckayla Knowles 2nd Annual Diabetes Walkathon
Saturday, November 23rd, 2019 - Begins at 6am Starts from the North Eleuthera Service Station to the North Eleuthera Shopping Center. For more information, contact: 551-3848. (Glucose testing will be done on site.)
School EVENTS Q4-2019: School Awards Ceremonies (Summer Term 2019)
Spanish Wells All Age School - Wednesday, October 30th -1:00pm (People’s Church)
Eleuthera District Religious Knowledge Speech Competition Friday, November 8th, 2019, at 10:00am
School EVENTS Q4-2019 CONT.: Eleuthera District Annual Festival of Carols Wednesday, December 4th, 2019 School Closes (for students) Friday, December 13th, 2019
CONTACT The Eleutheran Newspaper at 422-9350 or send email to services@theeleutheran.com,
National Debate District Competitions Location: MOE Resource Center Date: Friday, November 8th, 2019, at 10:00am
to have your community notices and events listed.
26 www. EleutheraNews . com
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Baptists March on GHB Bayfront in celebration of 61st Anniversary- New Leadership, New Sanctuary BY The eleutheran news team
On Sunday, October 20th, Baptist members from across Central and South Eleuthera came out to celebrate the 61st Anniversary of Baptist Day, with representatives from church congregations throughout the island. The celebration began with a banner march from the historic Ebenezer Baptist church on Cupid’s Cay in Governor’s Harbour, as marchers raised their voices in songs of worship, to the steps of the Administrative building, where a service of fellowship was held, immediately following the march. Several weeks before the Baptist Day celebration, St. Stephen’s Baptist in Hatchet Bay chose a new leader to carry the congregation forward, after the sad loss of Reverend Lambert Farrington earlier in 2019. The choice, made through a democratic voting process, saw three leaders in the church vying for the important role - Reverend Ricardo Dean, Reverend Eric Johnson, and Reverend Cassie Neely. Reverend Johnson was ultimately chosen as the new Pastor to lead St. Stephen’s Baptist. Reverend
Johnson,
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The photos show the faces and are also meant to reflect the spirit of the March across the Harbour and following gathering on the park of the diverse group of Baptist church members
before the march on Sunday, shared the vision for taking St. Stephen’s Baptist forward, saying, “The vision is not so much my own, but God’s - We are just following where and how he directs us... What I see is a people that have a desire for God, and not only for God - but they are a people with a vision, and a people who believe in knowledge and have a great understanding of the Word. I see them helping others come into that place, whereby God can utilize them and take them into a place where we can have a coming together in our congregation, within Hatchet Bay, and the wider Eleuthera. Our goal is to make Hatchet Bay a better place, that the spirit of God will be able to reign supremely - not only for St. Stephen’s, but Hatchet Bay. And through Hatchet Bay, this island for the glory of God.” Pastors Philip Bethel and Anthony McPhee are seen together worshiping on Baptist Day with other members.
Cladwell Farrington of Hatchet Bay’s St. Stephen’s (left) and Mrs. Pinder of Governor’s Harbour’s Ebenezer (right), enjoying the service.
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Decreasing Environmental Impact Through Conscious Food Choices Food plays a significant role in the daily lives of every signal human on earth. Whether you are growing the food, processing the food, cooking the food, or simply consuming the food, it is a part of your everyday life. Food has the ability to bring communities together and is often the center for cultural celebration. However, until recently, little was published on the environmental impacts of the food we eat. A report by the World Wide Fund (WWF) published in 2019, discovered that the food system (referring to food production, processing and transportation) currently poses the largest threat to the environment. This is greater than the impacts of the manufacturing, automotive and clothing industries. In addition to environmental damage, the agricultural industry uses 34% of all farmable land and 69% of all freshwater worldwide. As the food industry globalizes, the detrimental environmental impacts caused by poor food production practices are multiplied, and contribute to
the unintended rise of food insecurity specifically in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Food security is a term that concerns the sustainability and reliability of the food system, as well as individuals’ ability to obtain nutritious food. Food insecurity is a very relevant topic in The Bahamas. A study conducted by Williams College in 2015 found that Eleuthera imports 91 percent of its food from outside countries, which has environmental, economic and social implications for the community. Importing food from outside countries contributes to high food miles, causing increased carbon emissions from transportation. In addition, when food is purchased from abroad, the money spent ultimately leaves The Bahamas. Finally imported produce usually has lower nutritional value and is more expensive due to the long transportation time. Food insecurity leaves a community undernourished, reliant on other countries and economically vulnerable. In order to help reduce food insecu-
Island School students working on a local farm_
By CEI
rity on Eleuthera, the Center for Sustainable Development (CSD) and The Island School have developed a Food Security team. This team has set a goal to
be 50 percent food secure by the year 2025. This means Article Continued Page 39
Continued from Page. 26 Reverend Philip Bethel, former Parliamentarian, and now Senior Pastor of The People’s Restoration Baptist Church in Palmetto Point, was also in attendance at the fellowship service in Governor’s Harbour on Baptist Day. He and his congregation will celebrate the blessing of their new sanctuary, located on Queen’s Highway, Palmetto Point on Sunday, November 3rd, 2019. In Central and South Eleuthera, Baptist church fellowships can be found in Hatchet Bay, James’ Cistern, Governor’s Harbour,
Baptists hold their church banners high as they sing and march along Cupid’s Cay toward the administrative building.
Palmetto Point, Deep Creek, Waterford, and Wemyss Bight. Reverend Kipling Johnson of Ebenezer Baptist on Cupid’s Cay, Governor’s Harbour, is the president of the Eleuthera Baptist Fellowship of Churches.
28 www. EleutheraNews . com
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Ultra-processed foods
gain ground among Latin American and Caribbean families Washington, D.C., 23 October 2019 (PAHO) - Ultraprocessed food, sugary beverages and fast food with poor nutritional quality are replacing more nourishing domestic foods in diets of families in Latin America and the Caribbean, according to a report published by the Pan American Health Organization, “Ultra-processed food and drink products in Latin America: Sales, sources, nutrient profiles, and policy implications.” The report shows that sales of ultra-processed foods and beverages grew 8.3 percent between 2009 and 2014, the last year for which data were available. It estimates that those sales continued to grow another 9.2% from 2014 to 2019, generating alarming effects on health and requiring government regulations to reverse this trend. “We are observing the beginnings of an epidemic of ultra-processed food consumption,” said Fabio da Silva Gomes, regional advisor in nutrition at PAHO. “Its sales are growing disproportionately in comparison with those of other foods, filling families’ tables with products that do not contribute to good health,” he added. The trend is promoted by the marketing and the unrestricted publicity of these products in a market that is practically deregulated in the region. “We need governments to establish policies that restrict sales of these products. Ultra-processed products cannot form the basis of our nutrition. They can’t be an essential product in our diets,” da Silva Gomes stressed. The report gathered information on Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru and Venezuela, which together constitute 80 percent of the population of the region of Latin America and the Caribbean. It also analyzed 250 products, divided into 89 categories, and pointed out those which exceed the recommended levels of free sugars, total fat, saturated fats, or sodium; and which are the specific products that contribute more energy and the critical nutrients. According to the report, all the products analyzed contained excessive quantities of at least one of these critical nutrients. Together, 43% of what these products contribute is sugar. Soft drinks, fresh and salted snacks, cookies, pies, cakes and desserts, and sauces and dressings were listed as especially problematic. Ultra-processed products typically contain little or no whole foods, the report notes. They are industrial formulations made mostly from substances extracted or derived from foods, plus additives. They include soft drinks and other sugar-sweetened juices and drinks, sweet and savory snacks, candies (confectionery), industrial breads, cakes, and cookies (biscuits), sweetened breakfast cereals, reconstituted meat products, and pre-prepared dishes. In addition to sugars, oils, fats and salt, ultra-processed products include substances also derived from foods but not used in home cooking, such as hydrogenated oils, modified starches, protein isolates, and additives such as colors, flavors and flavor enhancers. Additives are used to imitate and enhance the sensory qualities of natural foods or to disguise unattractive qualities of the final product. A previous PAHO report on ultra-processed products revealed that the increase in sales (and related consumption) was associated with increases in bodyweight, which indicates
©Pixabay
©PAHO
that these products are an important driver of growing rates of overweight and obesity. In the Region, some 360 million people, almost 60% of the population, are overweight. The report recommends that governments, scientific societies and civil society organizations support and implement policies and regulations to discourage consumption of ultraprocessed products and protect and to promote the election of healthy foods. The findings presented in this report point to the need for strengthening of food systems that protect public health in Latin America and that are rational, appropriate, and sustainable. This requires commitment and investment as top priorities for national governments. The report suggests reduction of the health risks posed by ultra-processed products by reducing their overall consumption. This requires implementation of fiscal policies as well
as regulation of ultra-processed product labeling, promotion, advertising and sales, especially in schools. It also recommends development of new market opportunities to protect and increase the production, availability, affordability and consumption of unprocessed and minimally processed foods, and fresh handmade meals. Some countries, including Barbados, Brazil, Chile, Dominica, Mexico, Peru and Uruguay have begun implementing one or more of these measures, with good results. The measures are in line with PAHO’s Plan of Action to prevent obesity in children and adolescents, which was approved in 2014 and calls for strict limits on commercialization of food products that are unhealthy for children. Find a downloadable report on this topic online at: http://iris.paho.org/xmlui/handle/123456789/51094
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Prime Minister Minnis (2nd from left) provided an update on recovery and reconstruction in Abaco at a press conference on October 21st at the Office of the Prime Minister.
government on the ground.” The Royal Bahamas Defence Force has established a container city, which is serving as its operations base, and as a part of the command and control structure needed to ensure law and order. The base is located in Dundas Town and prepares 700 meals per day for Defence and Police Officers, and other government workers. They have set up a RO plant capable of producing 1,000 gallons of water. There is also a clinic and living quarters. The Prime Minister, along with Minister of Foreign Affairs and North Abaco MP, the Hon. Darren Henfield, and Minister of State for the Ministry of Disaster Preparedness, Management and Reconstruction, the Hon. Iram Lewis, carried out assessments on mainland Abaco and Elbow and Man-O-War Cay. The team also visited the site for the Family Relief Centre, which is located on Government land. The land has been cleared and infrastructure materials are arriving. Trailers for the workers who will construct the domes are at the site. The infrastructure from the Family Relief Centre will remain in place to accommodate
permanent housing on the same site, which is near Spring City. The temporary domes will be removed as individuals and families move to permanent housing. The Prime Minister said that because Marsh Harbour and the adjacent areas are larger and contained more public infrastructure than the Abaco Cays, Marsh Harbour is obviously going to require considerably more reconstruction. “Even as we rebuild Marsh Harbour and the adjacent communities, we are working to rebuild the Cays as quickly as possible,” said Prime Minister Minnis. The Prime Minister said that a constructive meeting with members of the Abaco Chamber of Commerce revealed that the local business community is very eager to work with the Government to rebuild devastated areas. Beginning this week, the residents of Abaco and Grand Bahama will be able to utilize in their rebuilding efforts the Government’s One-Stop Shop facility, which includes the Ministry of Works, the Department of Environmental Health, Customs, Local Government, the National Insurance Board, De-
Scenes of the PM’s visit to Abaco & Cays on the weekend ending 20th Oct.
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partment of Inland Revenue and the Small Business Development Centre. The Prime Minister noted that resorts in Southern Abaco are open and able to receive guests. “There is progress on the ground across Abaco,” said Prime Minister Minnis. “But there is still a long road to recovery and to reconstruction. The rebuilding of Abaco is going to take a long time. But the rebuilding has begun.”
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World CV hampions Continued from Page. 30
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island early on Thursday morning, and began their tour at the Central Eleuthera High School (CEHS), where they were welcomed with hearty cheers, whistles and applause from the audience of students, teachers, administration and local government.
A brief ceremony was held to officially welcome the star athletes, which included a melodious serenade of “I’m Gonna Win” by the CEHS choir. The personable and smiling Shaunae Miller, sharing a brief synopsis of her career and experiences as a professional athlete, with the students, told them that she competed in her very first senior competition at the age of 19, in 2013 - “It was a major experience for me, being able to compete against the very best, as my dream was always to be one of the best in the sport. So, getting my feet wet with that, I was able to place 4th in the 200m. From there, I said, I can do this. Let’s keep pushing, let’s keep going.” She went on to win a silver medal in 2015 in the 400m, then looked, she said, toward the Olympics in 2016. “I worked so hard that year, and I was like, I have to get this - I really want this.” She shared her recollection of running during the first 350m of the race, where she had given it her all. In the last 50m, she said her legs were tiring, however, she stated, “I kept fighting for it, and fighting for it.” Shaunae ultimately got the gold, in what people called ‘the dive’, she smiled, saying that her legs did actually give out on her as she fell across the line. “I take on ‘the dive’ now as well and it’s an inspiration for me to allow everyone to understand how hard I worked for it, and to go after my dream and accomplish it - and I was able to bring home the gold for my country. It
Pictured above (L-R): World Champion athletes, Shaunae Miller-Uibo, Maicel Uibo, and Steven Gardiner.
Shaunae here and Steven below taking the time to field one-on-one questions and share experiences. Above and below: Sealing memories in frames and on paper.
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In the tree shade, athletes received gift baskets as tokens of thanks and appreciation from the CEHS students for gracing their campus with their presence.
Students were the focus of the attention paid by the athletes who are pictured above with these youngsters from EGP Primary (left) and EEC Primary (right).
meant alot to me to be able to raise my country’s pride so high, and to allow the whole world to see it. It was a big blessing.” Shaunae, now 25, and at a high point in her professional career, encouraged the student audience to also continue to work hard, to do their best and to be proud of themselves - and to make their parents and their country proud. Steven, followed Shaunae addressing the students, and shared a bit of his back story as an athlete. Originally from the island of Abaco, he shared his experience of growing up in and competing in a sports system that was without many needed resources and no formal tracks, similar to Eleuthera. He told the youngsters about moving to Moore’s Island as a senior student, because of
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Highschoolers take the opportunity to pose with their role model.
Grade 5 student, Tamia Knowles, has her signatures in her book and a bright smile on her face as she poses with the two Bahamian World athletic Champs.
the more structured sports program available there, before debuting with his first national successes at the age of 17. Like Shaunae, Steven also encouraged the students to work hard to accomplish their goals, and told them to not let their circumstances hold them back. The floor was then opened for any student to ask questions of the three athletes, who were all willing to share tips and advice on the keys to their current successes. Before the champions left campus to visit other schools, they signed autographs and students had the rare opportunity to get up close and personal with the star athletes, who also allowed them to feel the gold and silver medals and posed for photos with different groups of students. Some of the other primary
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32 www. EleutheraNews . com Continued from Page. 31 schools visited by Steven, Shaunae and Maicel on Thursday, included the Gregory Town primary school, P.A. Gibson primary school in Hatchet Bay, James’ Cistern primary school, the Emily G. Petty primary school in Governor’s Harbour, as well as Emma Cooper primary
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in Palmetto Point, where they ended their tour. While in Gregory Town the visiting group also took time to stop at the renown Glass Window bridge. Reacting to the reception she and her husband experienced during the Eleuthera visit, Shaunae smiled, “It’s such a humbling experience. Every time I come home it’s just emotional
for me. To know that I have so much love and support, that is pushing me to continue to do my best, and to be even better. I love my Bahamian people so much. Especially this time around, after the devastation of the hurricane. We
Oct/Nov, 2019
National Honour
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Above: The CEHS choir serenades the World athletic Champs with, “I’m gonna win”.
Above: At Emily G. Petty Primary the children got a chance to feel the medals. Below: The star athletes mingled with students and signed autographs and posed for as many photos as possible.
NASSAU, The Bahamas -- Shaunae Miller-Uibo was invested with her National Honour -- the Order of Lignum Vitae -- on October 22nd at Government House. She was one of 21 Bahamians who received 2019 National Honours and were invested for excellence in national service by Governor General His Excellency the Most Hon. Cornelius A. Smith at Government House recently. At the National Honours Investiture Ceremony on National Heroes Day, October 14, the Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis applauded the achievements of the honourees; he also commended the “courage” and “grace” of many fellow citizens who put their lives at risk during, and after, the passage of Hurricane Dorian. Mrs. MillerUibo and the Governor General are pictured. (BIS Photo/Patrick Hanna)
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The photo immediately above show the athletes standing for group photos while visiting the Administration Offices in Governor’s Harbour. Shaunae Miller appeared to be very appreciative of the collage presented to her by the students of the Emily G. Petty Primary School in Governor’s Harbour. She and the other two accompanying athletes are pictured with the student body on the grounds of the Primary School below and on her own with the Grade 6 students above at the CEHS campus.
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n at i ona l
Spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights: Rupert Colville Location: Geneva
Date: 11 October 2019
We are concerned about the deportation of 112 Haitian migrants from The Bahamas to Haiti last Thursday (October 10th) including people from the Abaco Islands, which were badly hit by the destruction caused by Hurricane Dorian in September this year. We call on the Government to refrain from deporting individuals who lack documentation, without the individual assessments and due process guarantees to which they are entitled under international law. Haitian migrants have often found themselves in positions of vulnerability in The Bahamas, as documented by UN human rights mechanisms. Many of them lived in informal settlements that were destroyed by the hurricane, losing their documents, jobs and belongings. While Bahamian authorities had initially said immigration enforcement activities would be suspended in the affected islands, this position was publicly reversed at the end of September, when they announced that all migrants without valid documents would be apprehended and deported. This has led to panic among Haitians affected by Hurricane Dorian, and reports are emerging of people leaving temporary shelters for fear of arrest, and of people failing to avail themselves of necessary humanitarian services or going into hiding. There have also been deeply worrying discriminatory public declarations against Haitians, as well as messages of xenophobia and intolerance in the media. We are concerned that such narratives may lead to further stigmatisation of or violence against migrants and minorities. In the aftermath of natural disasters, it is particularly important to ensure that the most vulnerable, marginalised communities do not suffer from discrimination in accessing their fundamental rights to food, water, shelter and other basic needs. We urge the Govern-
Bahamas Responds to UNHCHR The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) wishes to advise that the Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas has taken note of the press release issued by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) dated 15 October 2019 (Note: Statement published on Oct 15 was dated Oct 11) The Ministry wishes to inform that pre, during and post Hurricane Dorian, the Bahamas Government relaxed its Immigration deportation and repatriation policies and procedures to ensure the safety, security and well being of all persons, irrespective of nationality, within its borders. During the search and res-
cue phase of the humanitarian efforts, all displaced persons were carefully accommodated in safe abode, whether with family members or an authorized shelter, irrespective of their immigration status. All were accommodated at international standards, inclusive of (3) three hot nourishing meals per day, bottled drinking water, clothing and medical attention by Government Board Certified Physicians, inclusive of free psychological evaluations afforded to any person thought to be affected by the trauma of Hurricane Dorian. Once the urgent
Subject: Bahamas
Oct/Nov, 2019 ment to ensure that no one is left behind in the recovery efforts. We encourage the Government to put in place procedures that facilitate access to documents for all those who had legal documents prior to Dorian – particularly those who may be either stateless or at risk of statelessness – and to ensure they have access to independent legal counsel. We call on the authorities to halt any further deportations to Haiti at the moment.
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just want to do them proud, and go out there and do our very best. So, we are happy to be able to come home and celebrate with them. Coming here to Eleuthera, I love Eleuthera so much. They are always so welcoming - so, it’s just a humbling experience.” Next for Shaunae is the big one, she stated, with the 2020 Olympics. She said that she would be going all out to make sure she could give her best performance to make the country proud once again. “We are going to be working really hard, so, we can hear our national anthem play. There is a lot of hard work coming up this year!” Notably Shaunae commented that she hoped they would change the schedules of the 200m and the 400m for the athletes, so, that she would be able to compete in both events, as they always seemed to collide in recent past events. “We are going to train extremely hard this year, and go for it - and try and bring home two gold medals for the country.” Maicel, accompanying his wife, Shaunae, expressed his enjoyment of the whole experience, and his wish to return. “This is the second time that I’ve visited, and I like it. It’s a beautiful island. The school kids were awesome - they were all excited. It was fun, it was fun. When we were talking togeth-
er, we said we wished we had time to give everybody an autograph. So, hopefully we find our way back here in the upcoming year, and make sure everybody gets an autograph and picture.” As the silver medal world champion in the decathlon, Maicel shared that their training schedule will continue as it has in the past year. “The Olympics is very important for us, so we try our best to train as hard as we can, and also recover, make sure we stay healthy, and don’t get injured.” Steven, who said this visit was his first time ever on the island of Eleuthera, was struck by the similarities to his home. “It so much reminds of me of Abaco. Island to island, people are so friendly, and welcoming and warm - I really appreciate Eleutherans having me here.” His family from Abaco, were all doing fine, he shared, and had relocated to where he was currently living in the U.S. He also thanked the people of Eleuthera for welcoming evacuees from Abaco into the island, the way that they have since the passage of hurricane Dorian. Upcoming plans in the runup to the 2020 Olympics, were similar to the past year, said Steven. “I plan to do the same thing I did this year. To go out and there, do my best, and bring home a medal for my country.” The track stars were also hosted to a brunch mix and mingle at the Administrative building in Governor’s Harbour, where local government members and heads of government departments got the opportunity to meet and greet them.
Response Cont’d Page 39 The athletes took time to field one-on-one questions, sign autographs and interact with the local students who eagerly embraced their presence.
opinio n
Why?
By: Andrew L. Burrows
There are many things being done, that we have no idea why. There are many things that should be done that are not. Why? We have in this country one of the most laidback community of people who are contented to tolerate our lack of interest in the communal welfare. This cannot continue. Our communities can be much cleaner and better maintained. Our public properties should be far better maintained, and our streets should not be cluttered with oversized ‘speedbumps’, instead, they should be well maintained and litter free. Maintenance is an ongoing process; it never stops and takes a vacation! Our problem is that continuous maintenance has never been accepted as a normal requirement, and so it is done only out of desperation and never followed up. It is obvious to all that Local Government has been allowed to fail because it duplicates what Central Government already has departments based in the capital, responsible to oversee. Why is our dock in Central Eleuthera not kept clean and well taken care of? It is the collection point for millions of tax dollars, yet it is seldom cleaned or repaired. The former Customs building is an eye sore and is equal to the
two dilapidated cottages adjacent to the basketball court. How can public properties be so overlooked in the middle of the island, where every government department is represented? Why are we required to pay taxes of all kinds and yet after being ‘independent’ for forty-six years we still have not taken ownership of our country! We behave like squatters, not owners. We have witnessed recently the destructive forces that can come and ravage our island homes. We have made some improvements in the recent past to our sea walls that were continually being washed away by storm surges; that is good. The job is not done; we must continue to improve our efforts to stop wasteful practices and reduce the cost of continuously having to replace shoddy work! It is good to see the noticeable improvements, like street signs, additional street lights, and restoration of the park, but there is always more to be done. It has always been the lack of sufficient funds to get all that is needed done! It is obvious to all that the government of this country has over time taken on more responsibilities than it should, and this has led to abuse and waste of public funds. If you want a government that provides your every need, then you just about have it, but if you want to be free, and responsible for your own life and welfare, the choice has to be made!
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Why do we have a government, elected by the people, which then swears allegiance to the Queen of England!? We are independent, at least that is what I thought we were told, we pay our own way like all other countries. Yet, we bow to the wishes of our former colonial masters, and hold fast to the lie that we are ‘royal’ yet independent! Why do we refuse to ‘grow up’ and take full responsibility for our affairs? Is this why we still expect someone else to come and pick up our trash, restore what is broken, and do for us what we should be doing for ourselves? It is time that we mature, grow up and take full responsibility for our lives, and stop waiting for some mystical servant to come and do for us what we should be doing. We spend a very large portion of our incomes educating our children to become ‘professionals’ while at the same time failing to prepare them to be owners of their land. This trend must be moderated to correct the habit of neglect. Don’t celebrate being a Bahamian unless you are also prepared to live like one! Own your country…Own your country! It is good that we have finally put behind us the lie that our islands were discovered by Columbus. When he arrived here, he met Arawak people, and yet we have celebrated that lie. It is also high time that we recognize the importance of owning land for ourselves
andrewburrows1@gmail.com
in our country. We celebrate when a foreigner buys multiple acres of land and employs us to build fences and walls to prevent us from accessing the beach, or that land. Once sold it will never be re-owned by us. Why do we hate ourselves? That is a stigma of slavery, which was forced on our African ancestors, beginning centuries ago, but the disability keeps getting passed on to each new generation. The Word of God frees us from all human stigmas because we are set free through new life in Jesus Christ, who is the true owner of this world. Serve Him!
More inspectors to help with Building Code process on the way, says Works Minister By Kathryn Campbell
NASSAU, The Bahamas – The appointment of more inspectors to co-operate with local architects and engineers in the inspection process of the building code is on the drawing board for the Ministry of Public Works.
The Hon. Desmond Bannister, Minister of Public Works, made the announcement in his contribution to the debate on the Disaster Preparedness and Response (Amendment Bill) 2019.
“The current edition of the Bahamas Building Code is rigorous but as with any building code it is subject to continuous review. The code contemplates protection for a building from winds of up to 150mph. At one time, it was thought that this was fully adequate. [Hurricane] Dorian, however, had maximum sustained winds of 185 mph and gusts of up to 220 mph,” said Minister Bannister. He told Parliamentarians that one of the other challenges throughout the country is people often build in areas that, in normal times may be prone to flooding, and often ignore the inspection
process. “I have seen so many homes in Abaco and in Grand Bahama that did not meet the requirements of the code either because they were built before the code was amended or because they were built in contravention of the code.” Mr. Bannister said the Ministry’s duty is to protect the public and pledged to be more thorough with inspections and enforcement. The Ministry will also continue to review the findings from the aftermath of [Hurricane] Dorian with a view to strengthening various aspects of the code.
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Crime News
Oct/Nov, 2019
Police Contact Numbers
Reports issued by the RBPF locally. Reports are printed to keep the public informed of the incidents of crime that are reported within our communities. All reports are to be treated as allegations only.
Eleuthera Reports
Assault Report: On 26/10/19 at 2:14pm an adult female of Rock Sound reported to the R.S.P, Station that sometime around 1:15pm while at Deep Creek a girl approached and asked her who had parked in the driveway. Upon her moving her vehicle and then returning she was pulled by the hair and hit in her head by this female for no reason. She requested Police action. Enquiries are ongoing. Arrest/Breach of Liquor License Act On 25/10/19 at 12:50pm a team of Officers came in at the Rock Sound Police Station with an adult male under arrest for breach of the Liquor License Act. He was reportedly arrested sometime around 12:45pm while at his residence by Police after a search of the suspect’s residence for Dangerous Drugs and firearms with negative results. During the search police with the assistance of the adult male discovered items reportedly being sold by the male, however, he did not possess a license to sell any goods. As a result the Officers seized several items. Arrest/Possession of Dangerous Drugs On Wednesday 23rd October, 2019, sometime around 8:26am, the police Crew of Eskimo#3 came in at Rock Sound Police Station with two adult males of N.P c/o Green Castle under arrest. Officers, while on special duties in the area of Green Castle conducted a search of three males that were sitting outside under a cabana. A search was conducted of one of the men and officers found a substance that appeared to be a small quantity of marijuana wrapped in a foil paper. He was placed under arrest and cautioned reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs and was transported to the R.S.P, station for processing. They both appeared to be in good health. Stealing report Sometime around 10:00am on the 22/10/19 an adult male of Hatchet Bay came in at the Hatchet Bay police station and reported that sometime between 11:00am on the 21/10/19 and 9:30am on the 22/10/19 some unknown persons broke and entered a building and stole a red and black Duro Star 4000 Watt generator valued at $600 from the building. Police action requested. Police
visited the scene where a statement was recorded from the complainant and the scene was processed. Investigations are ongoing in this matter. Assault Report On Sunday 20th October, 2019 at about 4:29pm a Cpl. contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station by phone and reported that a young adult female of Gregory Town reported to him that sometime around 4:24pm on 20th October she went to visit her daughter who lives with her father and upon arriving at his residence an argument ensued resulting in him punching her about the body. Police Action requested. Police recorded a statement from the complainant - investigations are ongoing. Stolen Vehicle Report: On Saturday 19th October 2019 a young adult female of Palmetto Point came in at the Governors Harbour Police Station and reported that sometime between the hours of 5:01pm 18/10/19 and 8:15am 19/10/19 some unknown person/s stole her white 2000 Honda Accord L/P# EL0979 valued at $3,500.00. She stated that she left the vehicle secured in the Governors Harbour Airport parking lot. Police action requested. Police recorded a statement from the complainant. Cpl 3293 Cooper visited the scene. Cpl 3293 Cooper also made extensive checks in the areas of Gregory Town, Hatchet Bay, James Cistern, Rainbow Bay, Governors Harbour, with negative results. A B.O.L.O. was circulated to all Stations, enquiries continue. Arrest: Possession of Dangerous Drugs On Friday 18th October, 2019, sometime around 2:05pm, the Police Crew of Eskimo#1 came in at Rock Sound Police Station with a young adult male of Tarpum Bay under arrest in reference to possession of dangerous drugs. Officers reported that sometime around 2:03pm while on mobile patrols on Albury Lane, Rock Sound, they observed a dark skinned male walking with his right fist clenched acting in a suspicious manner upon seeing the police. Officers then approached this male who threw an object to the ground. Officers then retrieved the object from the ground which was found to be a small quantity of suspected marijuana which was shown to the male. As a result, he was arrested and cautioned. He told officers that he had just purchased the suspected drugs and that he did not want to get locked up so upon seeing the police, he threw it to the ground. He appeared to be in good health. At about 4:25pm Police conducted an interview under caution with the suspect and he was subsequently cautioned and charged with one count of possession of dangerous drugs contrary
HeadQuarters (GH) Governor’s Harbour OR O/C Governor’s Harbour Gov.Harb. Airport Station Deep Creek Station Tarpum Bay Station Rock Sound Station
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to section 29(6) & 29(2) (B) of The Dangerous Drugs Amendment Act, 2011. He made no reply to the charge. House Breaking report: On Friday 18th October, 2019 at 3:00pm an adult male of a House located Banks road north Palmetto Point contacted the GHPS and reported that during the early morning some unknown person(s) broke into his rental home and stole $350.00 in cash and a White Micargi bicycle valued unknown. Police action requested. ATTEMPTED HOUSEBREAKING At about 8:05am on Thursday 17th October 2019, an adult male of Orlando Florida contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station and reported that on Thursday 17th October 2019 sometime between 3:00am and 4:00am some unknown persons/s attempted to break and enter his vacation rental home in Governor’s Harbour . Police action requested. BREACH OF IMMIGRATION ACT: Immigration and Police came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with five Haitian migrants under arrest, in reference to Breach of the Immigration Act. Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs On Sunday 13th October, 2019 sometime around 10:22am the crew of Eskimo#29 came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station and reported that sometime around 10:15am on 13/10/2019 while on mobile patrol in the area of Bahamas Power and Light, situated Queens Highway Governor’s Harbour he observed the driver of a grey Toyota acting in a suspicious manner. The vehicle was stopped and searched which resulted in a white plastic wrapping containing a grassy like substance believed to be marijuana being found in the front right driver door compartment. . As a result the driver, a young male of Freeport Grand Bahama was informed of the offence and subsequently arrested and cautioned reference to possession of dangerous drugs. He appeared to be in good health. He was later charged with possession of dangerous drugs contrary to sect 29(6) and 29(2)b of the Dangerous Drugs Act Chapter 228. Stealing Report On Saturday 12th October, 2019 at about 9:50am an adult male of Fort Lau-
Rock Sound Sgt. Office Rock Sound Airport Stn L. Bogue Station (Airport) Harbour Island Station O/C Harbour Island Spanish Wells Station Gregory Town Station Hatchet Bay Station
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derdale, Florida came to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station and reported that on Wednesday 9th October, 2019 he left his Maui Jim prescription sunglasses valued at $500.00, a black and blue Coach sunglasses valued at $100.00 and his wife Fossil wrist watch valued at $100.00 on the dining room table of their rental home located Double bay, Eleuthera. He named a suspect who he believed is responsible for stealing same. Police action Requested. POSSESSION OF D/DRUG ARREST REPORT: Sometime around 2:00am on Saturday 12/10/19 acting on Information and armed with a Search Warrant; Police visited a business at Governor’s Harbour where a search was conducted in reference to Dangerous Drugs. Present at the time was an adult male, one of the Proprietors. While searching the area of the office police reportedly discovered a bag which contained nine (9) Eureka High Potency Pure Cannabis Oil individual packages. These were shown to the male who stated that he did not know what they were. While Officers were at the premises a second male arrived and informed police that the Cannabis Oil belonged to him and he had purchased them in the States for his personal use. As a result police placed both men under arrest for Possession of Dangerous Drugs with Intent to Supply. Both males were transported to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station for Processing.
STEALING AND CAUSING DAMAGE Sometime around 3:00pm on the 11/10/19 an adult male of Hatchet Bay came in at the Hatchet Bay police station and reported that sometime around 2:30pm on the same date he caught a group of males who he knew - all of Hatchet Bay, on his property just south of Hatchet Bay removing vehicular parts from vehicles owned by him placed on the property for storage for the purpose of selling vehicle parts. He further reported where he observed wire harnesses from multiple vehicles that had been cut out of the vehicles. He request immediate police action in this matter reference to stealing and causing damage. Investigations in this matter are ongoing Threats of Death /Assault At 4:15 pm on Tuesday 08 of October, 2019 an adult female, of Palmetto Point came to the Governor’s Harbour Police
Crime News Station and reported that her husband came into her place of work and assaulted her. He also threatened to kill her putting her in fear for her life. She is requesting Police Action in this matter. THREATS OF DEATH The Crew of Eskimo 29# came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with one an adult male of Palmetto Point, Eleuthera under arrest and reported he was arrested at about 10:35am in Palmetto Point in reference to Threats of Death . He appeared to be in good health at this time. At 8:01 pm on Wednesday 09th October 2019, the male was released on bail in the amount of $500.00 with one surety, to appear before court to answer the charge of Threats of Harm. ARREST REFERENCE TO BREACH OF IMMIGRATION ACT: Police along with Immigration came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with (2) two suspected illegal immigrants in reference to Breach of the Immigration Act. Both appeared in good health. The two were later released after confirming their Immigration status.
H.I. & N.E. Reports Causing Harm Arrest On Monday 21st October, 2019 at 7:42 pm an adult male of Colebrooke Street came to the HIPS where he was arrested and cautioned in reference to Causing Harm. Stealing/Police Assistance/NFA On Monday 21st October 2019, sometime around 8:18pm, A Sgt. c/o Harbor Island Police Station, contacted the North Eleuthera Police Station and stated that an adult male contacted the H.I.P.S. and reported that he was at that time watching a male on his property, located off Genes Bay Road, via surveillance camera, who is stealing his blocks and a box of nails. He requested Police assistance. On Monday 21st October 2019, sometime around 8:30pm, police arrived on scene where he saw and spoke to an adult male of Lower Bogue, Eleuthera, who stated that he received a call from the adult male who had called police, who asked him to make a check of the property. He said that on his arrival he found a male, known to him by first name, who he also knows to be a mental patient, walking from the property. He stated that he attempted to call the male, who walked into the bushes and made good his escape. Police informed the complainant of his findings and no further action was requested. All was left in order. Causing Harm Report Police Action Requested On Monday 21st October 2019 at 3:10am an adult male of Bay Street came to the HIPS and reported that while in the area of the Vichum Nightclub, he was engaged in a conversation with a male he knows and another male he knows threw a rock at him hitting him to the left side of his head. Police action requested.
Rape Accusation On Monday 14th October 2019, a Sgt. c/o Hatchet Bay Police Station, contacted the North Eleuthera Police Station and reported that a young adult female, of Harbour Island came into the Hatchet Bay Police Station and reported that she awoke sometime around 6:00am in Blackwood, unclothed, and with her hands tied up with shoe laces. She stated that she does not know how she got there, and that the last thing she remembers is being in Harbour Island. She suspects that she may have been drugged and raped. She is requesting Police action. On Monday 14th October 2019, sometime around 11:30am, Sgt. 2495 Sands recorded a written statement from the complainant, who stated that while in Harbour Island she met a tall slim male .She further stated that the young man purchased her a number of alcoholic beverages, which she drank. She said that later that night she started to feel dizzy, and began dipping in and out of consciousness. However, she recalled the young man laying her inside of a bed, taking of all of his clothes, and having sexual intercourse with her against her will. She is requesting Police action. Victim Examined: On Monday 14th October 2019, sometime around 3:16pm, Police escorted the victim, to the Palmetto Point Clinic, where she was examined. A Sexual Assault kit was completed. Suspect Arrested: On Monday 14th October 2019, sometime around 8:50pm, Police, while in the area of Blackwood, arrested and cautioned the suspect – a young adult male of Blackwood in reference to Rape. A search was conducted of his residence and evidence collected. The suspect was transported to the North Eleuthera Police Station, then onto Harbour Island Police Station, where he was handed over for safekeeping. The suspect was subsequently interviewed, and released pending further investigations. Assault Report On Thursday 17th October 2019, sometime around 3:47pm, a young adult female of #15 Spinney Road, Grand Bahama, came to the North Eleuthera Police Station and reported that on Wednesday 16th October 2019, sometime around 10:20am, while at her mother’s apartment, located in the Bluff, Eleuthera, her boyfriend, choked and kicked her in her stomach. She requested Police action in this matter. Stealing Report On Thursday 17th October 2019, sometime around 6:15pm, an adult male of Airport Road, came into the North Eleuthera Police Station and reported that sometime between 15th October 2019 & 17th October 2019, some unknown person/s went onto his property and stole a radiator and a radiator fan from a Honda Civic. He stated that this incident occurred during the time that he was off the Island. He was unable to give the name of the
owner of the vehicle at that time, nor the license plate number. He requested Police action Assault Report Police Action Requested On Wednesday 16th October 2019 at 5:00pm an adult female of Trianna Shores in at S-3 and reported that at around 4:50pm while on the government dock, Bay Street both her and her husband were assaulted by a male known to her. Police action requested. Suspect Arrest At 5:08PM same date an adult male of Ripley Street came in at HIPS where he was arrested and cautioned by an officer in reference to Assault. Structural Fire Report Police Assistance Requested On Wednesday 16th October 2019 at 6:00pm, the Harbour Island Police Station received reports of a structural fire at the Briland On The Go Gas Station located on Colebrook Street. Police responded and found the mentioned gas station fully engulfed in flames. The police and volunteer firefighters were on scene. The gas station and a storage house adjacent has since been destroyed. At about 10:25PM Chief Supt. Stephen Adderley with ASP N. Rolle, INSP K. Farquharson assisted by other officers visited the scene to further assess and assist. A residence, north of Briland On The Go was completely destroyed. Causing Harm Report Police Action Requested A young adult female of Trianna Shores Harbour Island came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that while at her residence her ex-boyfriend of Dunmore Street dragged her into his vehicle against her will and took her on the Former Harbour Island airport road situated Queens Highway and beat her about the body causing pain and injuries. Police action requested. Warrant of Arrest Police reported arresting a suspect, an adult male of Sea Breeze New Providence at about 10:15Pm on 14/10/19 while in the area of the home coming site situated Bay Street Harbour Island in reference to outstanding warrants after a name check was conducted. Arrest Reference to Disorderly Behavior/ Resisting Arrest Police reported that at about 4:05Am on 14/10/19 while on the Public dock situated Bay Street Harbour Island a CPL reported that he arrested and cautioned the suspect an adult male of Lower Bogue North Eleuthera in reference to Disorderly Behavior, Assaulting a Police Officer and Resisting Arrest. Arrest Reference Resisting Arrest Police reported that while in the area of Colebrooke Street a search was conducted of an adult male suspect of Colebrooke Street Harbour Island in reference to Dangerous Drugs and Firearm which resulted in him becoming disorderly towards officers. He was subsequently arrested and cautioned by reference to Disorderly Behavior
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and Resisting Arrest. Suspect Charged Reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs On Wednesday 9th October 2019, sometime around 8:00pm, Police, while at the North Eleuthera Police Station charged an adult male suspect, of Gregory Town, Eleuthera with possession of dangerous drugs. He was further cautioned and did not respond. Suspect Charged Reference to Causing Harm On Thursday 10th October 2019, sometime around 4:28pm, Police while at the North Eleuthera Police Station, charged an adult male suspect, of Bluff, Eleuthera, in reference to Causing Harm. He was further cautioned and did not respond to the charge. Arrest reference to W.O.A. North Eleuthera Police Station On Wednesday 9th October 2019, sometime around 3:00pm, Police while at the North Eleuthera Police Station arrested and cautioned a young adult male suspect, of Current Island, in reference to an outstanding W.O.A. Assault Report On Sunday 13th October, 2019 at about 12:05 am an adult male of Paris Lane, HBI came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that at about 11:45 pm on 12.10.19 while at the Harbour Island Regatta site, Bay Street a female known to him came to the bar where he stood and kicked him to the left leg causing pain. Police action requested. Possession of Dangerous Drugs Arrest
On Saturday 12th October, 2019 at about 12:15 am Police came to the Harbour Island Police Station with a young adult male of Dunmore Street. They reportedly arrested and cautioned the suspect while along Dunmore Street in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. The suspect was interviewed and was subsequently charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs C/S 29(6) and 29 (2) (B) of the Dangerous Drugs Act, Chapter 228. Possession of Dangerous Drug Arrest On Saturday 12th October, 2019 at about 12:40 am police came to the Harbour Island Police Station with a young adult male of Colebrooke Street. He was reportedly arrested and cautioned while along Dunmore Street in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. He was interviewed and charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs C/S 29(6) and 29 (2) (B) of the Dangerous Drugs Act, Chapter 228. Possession of Dangerous Drug Arrest On Saturday 12th October, 2019 at about 1:10 am police came to the Harbour Island Police Station with a young adult male of Colebrooke Alley. He was reportedly arrested and cautioned while along Dunmore Street in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. The suspect was interviewed and subsequently charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs C/S 29(6) and 29 (2) (B) of the Dangerous Drugs Act, Chapter 228.
38 www. EleutheraNews . com Continued from Page. 37 Possession of Dangerous Drug Arrest On Saturday 12th October, 2019 at about 1:31 police came to the Harbour Island Police Station with an adult male of Duke Street. They reportedly arrested and cautioned the suspect while along Dunmore Street in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. Possession of Dangerous Drug Arrest On Saturday 12th October, 2019 at about 1:10 am police came to the Harbour Island Police Station with an adult male of Nesbitt Street. He was reportedly arrested and cautioned while along Munnings Street in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. Trespassing and Threats of Harm Report / Arrest On Tuesday 8th October 2019 at 4:10pm police came in at S-3 with a young adult male of Barrack Street, Harbour Island. He was reportedly arrested and cautioned at 4:05 pm whilst in the area of Bay Street in reference to Trespassing and Threats of harm. The suspect was interviewed and subsequently charged with Trespassing contrary to section 154(1) and Threats of Harm contrary to section 203 of the Penal Code Chapter 84. Interfering With a Prisoner Arrest On Monday 7th October 2019 at 10:40am police came in at the HIPS with an adult male suspect of Colebrook Street, Harbour Island. The suspect was arrested and cautioned in reference to interfering with a prisoner. Interfering With a Prisoner Report An Officer reported that he received information that a suspect male of Colebrooke Street jumped over the wall of the Harbour Island Administration Complex and pushed a black cell phone through the western cell block window to a suspect who is being held in police custody at Harbour Island Police Station. Update • Police conducted a search of the cell and reported observing the adult male suspect of Yellow Elder pushing an unknown object in a ventilation hole of a steel brace attached to a western window of the cell block area. As a result, further checks were made which revealed a partially smoked homemade marijuana cigarette. He was further cautioned in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. Upon searching an adult male suspect of Coconut Grove Avenue Harbour Island he admitted being in possession of a black Samsung cell phone which was later retrieved from his groin area and secured for further investigation purposes. • Police viewed surveillance footage at about 10:55 am while at the Harbour Island Police Station and positively identified the suspect to be
Crime News
an adult male of Colebrooke Street Harbour Island.
him in fear for his life. Police action requested.
Arrest reference to Causing Harm North Eleuthera Police Station On Monday 30th September 2019, sometime around 12:15pm, Police, while at the North Eleuthera Police Station, arrested and cautioned an adult male suspect, of The Bluff in reference to an outstanding causing harm complaint. The suspect was interviewed and later released pending further investigations.
Operation “Northern Strike” On Friday October 04th, 2019 between the hours of 4:00 am and 7:00 pm Officers of Royal Bahamas Police Force and Bahamas Immigration Department conducted a joint operation throughout the Harbour Island community targeting all illegal immigrants and other criminal offenders. As a result of this operation a total of (39) persons were arrested in reference to Breach of the Immigration Act - 10 females and 29 Males, (9) persons arrested reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs and (2) Persons reference to Dangerous Drugs with the Intent to Supply (listed below). All suspects remain in custody at the Harbour Island Police Station and investigations are continuing.
Drug Arrest Report Queens Highway, Lower Bogue On Wednesday 2nd October 2019, sometime around 9:25pm, Police, while on mobile patrol along Queens Highway, Lower Bogue, observed a black 1996 Honda Accord travelling along the said road, with one headlight illuminated. The officers went in pursuit of the vehicle, which they subsequently brought to a stop by using the Police vehicle’s beacon lights. The officers approached the vehicle and observed a clear plastic baggie on the floor, approximately (4) four feet away from the vehicle. The same was collected, examined, and found to contain (4) clear plastic wrapped packages, each containing a quantity of suspected marijuana. As a result the (2) occupants of the vehicle were arrested, cautioned, and taken to the North Eleuthera Police Station, where they identified themselves, both being of the Bluff Road. The adult male and female suspects were interviewed under caution, and charged with possession of dangerous drugs. The suspects were later released on bail to appear before Harbour Island Magistrate Court on Wednesday 30th October 2019 at 9:30pm. Sexual Assault Report Lower Bogue, Eleuthera On Friday 4th October 2019, sometime around 5:05pm, Police contacted the N.E.P.S and reported that a child was at the Lower Bogue Clinic, with symptoms of a possible sexual assault. The mother stated that when the child arrived from Primary School, she went to the restroom, and when she saw the child she noticed the reported issue. Police action requested. On Friday 4th October 2019, police visited the Lower Bogue Clinic where the young child was being examined.. At 9:15pm a chartered plane arrived at the airport and carried the child and parent to Nassau for further Medical Attention. Trespassing and Threats of Harm Report On Saturday 5th October 2019 at 2:13pm an adult male of Paris Lane Harbour Island came to the HIPS and reported that on Friday 4th October 2019 at about 1:17am while at his residence, a female he knows and his ex male friend came to his residence creating a disturbance and threatening to cause harm to him, putting
Possession of Dangerous Drugs: • An adult male of Colebrooke Street (Harbour Island). • A young adult male of Tingum Village Hotel Formerly of (Marsh Harbour) Abaco. • An adult male of Lower Bogue (North Eleuthera). • An adult male of Munnings Street (Harbour Island). • An adult male of Barrack Street (Harbour Island). • A young adult male of Barrack Street (Harbour Island). • An adult male of Trianna Shores (Harbour Island). Possession of Dangerous Drugs With The Intent to Supply: • An adult male of Barrack Street (Harbour Island). • An adult male Yellow Elder, NP. Possession of Dangerous Drugs On Friday 4th October 2019, police proceeded to a residence on Colebrooke street, Harbour Island where officers attempted to execute a search warrant, however the occupants refused to open the door resulting in officers forcing their way into the interior. Once on the inside officers observed two adult males who appeared to be weighing and packaging suspected marijuana. Both males were arrested and cautioned along with other paraphernalia were confiscated. Suspects and exhibits were transported to the HIPS where they gave their names and identified their addresses as Coconut Grove Ave and Yellow Elder Nassau Bahamas. They were arrested and cautioned. Approximate weight of drugs is suspected: 5lbs. Investigations continue. Voyeurism Report On Friday 4th October, 2019 at about 1:30 am an adult female of Barrack Street came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that at around1:10 am while at her residence along with her friend a young adult
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male of same address, some unknown male climbed a ladder to her upstairs kitchen window and shouted, “mother *$^#&?*, you’re *$^#&?* now. ?? sent me and I have you’ll on camera”. She suspects the person to be a male who is known to her. Police action requested. Suspect Interviewed, Charged Dangerous Drugs Police conducted an interview at around 10:40am on Monday 30th September 2019 with a young adult resident of 12th Street Spanish Wells under caution while at the Harbour Island Police in reference to Dangerous Drugs with the Intent to supply. The suspect was subsequently charged in reference to Dangerous Drugs with intent to supply contrary to section 29(6) and 29(2) B of the Dangerous Drug Act. He said nothing in reply to the Charge. Arrest Report Police reported that at around 1:44pm they arrested and cautioned a male suspect of Colebrooke Street in reference to an Assault complaint made by his estranged wife of the same address. Police conducted a record of interview with the suspect. As a result of insufficient evidence to proceed with prosecutions, the suspect was released pending further investigations. Arrest report Police reported arresting a male suspect of Love Lane Harbour Island at around 1:50pm on 30/9/19 while at the Harbour Island Police Station in reference to Causing Harm, a complaint made on 28/9/19. Police conducted an interview with the suspect under caution at 4:50pm on 30/9/19 while at the Harbour Island Police Station. As a result he was subsequently charged in reference to Causing Harm. Arrest report Police reported arresting an adult male suspect of Munnings Street, Harbour Island at around 12:55Pm on 30/9/19 while at the Harbour Island Police Station in reference to Causing Harm and possession of Dangerous Drugs. The suspect was interviewed under caution and was subsequently charged in reference to Possession of dangerous drugs. Assault with a deadly weapon Police assistance On Tuesday 1st October 2019 at about 12:50am an adult male of Ripley Street Harbour Island came to the HIPS and reported that while at home he was attacked by his wife. Police action requested.
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Food Security local efforts
Continued from Page. 27 that CSD is partnering with local farmers to procure at least half of the food served at The Island School from sources within The Bahamas. In order to achieve this goal the Food Security team, in conjunction with the The Island School’s Kitchen team, have created a brand new position, Local Food Coordinator. This role will be dedicated to working with local farmers and The Island School to help support a local food network on Eleuthera. Applicants for this position are now be-
ing accepted.To apply visit ceis.bamboohr.com/jobs/. Education is also a key focus for the Food Security team. In 2019 The World Wide Fund estimated that only nine percent of the population is aware of the environmental impact of the food we consume. Given this statistic, The Island School’s food security research team this semester has focused on an educational program to try and raise awareness on food security. As a pilot project, the team is working with the Deep Creek Middle School (DCMS)
bahamas response Continued from Page. 34
immigration
/UN
search and rescue phase had passed and a semblance of normalcy returned to the country, the Bahamas Government made the painstaking, conscientious, but necessary, decision to resume the implementation of its Immigration Laws. All illegal migrants, irrespective of their origin, removed from The Bahamas, were done so in compliance with the statute laws of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, in accordance with the Immigration Act, consistent with the International Standards of the Rule of Law and in compliance with International Human Rights Norms and Standards. The Government of The Bahamas wishes to assure that there was adherence to all due process; and the requisite procedures for proper documentation via captured biometrics were followed to determine every individual’s constitutional right to reside lawfully in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. Persons found wanting and in violation of the Immigration Act were lawfully removed, in accordance with the requisite Court Orders. OHCHR in its release said “While Bahamian authorities had initially said Immigration Enforcement activities would be suspended in the affected islands, this position was publicly reversed at the end of September, when they announced that all migrants without valid documents would be apprehended and deported.” This statement is correct, as uttered in local print media by the Immigration Minister concerned. The Bahamas resumed Lawful implementation of its Statute Laws after careful analysis, at a time when it was deemed appropriately humane and necessary to do so. Contrary to what has been alleged by OHCHR, the Government has received no reports of “People leaving temporary shelters for fear of arrest and or persons failing to avail themselves of necessary humanitarian services or fleeing into hiding.” The International Community may rest assured, the Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas is a Country that adheres strictly to the Rule of Law both locally and internationally, especially with respect to the rights of every man, woman and child in its jurisdiction. Any person entitled to be in The Bahamas legally will be accorded every fundamental right under its Statute Laws. Any person in violation of the Immigration Act will be dealt with in accordance with the Statute Laws of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. 19 October 2019, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nassau, The Bahamas
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and The Island School community. The hope is that this educational program could eventually be delivered across Eleuthera to spread awareness on the importance of eating local food. Every person that consumes food has the ability to make more sustainable choices and work towards improving their individual food security. Through considering more about where your food comes from and supporting local farmers, you can have an impact on the agricultural industry in Eleuthera and The Bahamas. This can also include eating seasonally, which means only eating fruits and vegetables that can be grown locally at that time of year. Additionally, minimizing your food waste can have a major impact on the sustainability of your food choices. Globally one third of all food production is wasted, either as spoiled or undesirable food,
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or waste such as bones, stalks and peels. This in turn, wastes resources such as land, labor, water and fuel that has gone into producing that food. Small changes by individuals have the ability to affect large impacts within a community. The Island School is actively seeking to build dependable business relationships with local farmers to buy food products. The organization welcomes partnerships with new farmers while also strengthening current relationships. In order to discuss details and logistics, please contact The Island School’s kitchen team at kitchenteam@islandschool.org or by phone at 242 334 8551. For more information on the Food Security project please contact The Center for Sustainable Development at info@csdbahamas. org or visit our campus in South Eleuthera.
BAHAMAS IMMIGRATION PRESS RELEASE On October 10th immigration announced that a Bahamasair flight departed Lynden Pindling International Airport at 8:07AM. enroute to Portau-Prince, Haiti with a total of (112) Haitian nationals escorted by a team of Law Enforcement Officers.This group included (91) Males and (21) Females. The Immigration team was led by Mr. Denaj Wilchombe Gr. II Immigration Officer along with Officers of The Royal Bahamas Defence Force. The Department will continue its commitment to carrying out the mandates of our agency to combat illegal migration by establishing effective border control management in compliance with the Statute Laws of our country,
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1 (242) 422-9350 email / website services@TheEleutheran.com editor@TheEleutheran.com www.EleutheraNews.com
fax/landline
1 (242) 332-2993 The Eleutheran, P. O. Box EL-25166, Governor’s Harbour Eleuthera, The Bahamas.
A SPICE MEDIA GROUP (SMG) PUBLICATION Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, The Bahamas. pages: 48 Stamped: October 29, 2019 8:26 PM
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Large Fire on Harbour Island Destroys Business and Home. owner optimistic about comeback
Police reported shortly after 8pm on Wednesday, October 16th, 2019, that several buildings were ablaze on Harbour Island. The fire was said to have started at the ‘Briland On The Go’ gas station and convenience store location, and quickly spread to a nearby home and buildings. Police in Harbour Island said that the entire community had come together to assist with the flames, which were described as having totally engulfed the ‘Briland On The Go’ building. Police also stated that the fire truck on the island was engaged by local volunteer firefighters in combating the fire. Volunteers with the fire truck from North Eleuthera, also within a short time after the fire began, transported their truck to Harbour Island to assist with the blaze, which could be clearly seen from across the bay, on Three Island Dock. Police in Harbour Island confirmed that by midnight, the fire had been materially contained. Three stone structures were reported to have been destroyed by the fire – two single-story buildings, and one two-story structure. One of the single story buildings was the home of Mr. Michael Higgs, proprietor of Michael’s Cycles in Harbour Island. He shared the following day, that his fleet of more than 40 golf carts had been saved from the flames, so, his business would continue to be up and running. Also, he and his family, he said, were all safe. His residence, and office, which was adjacent to ‘Briland On The Go’, however, had been destroyed by the large fire. Mr. Marcus Pinder, owner of ‘Briland On The Go’, commenting after the fire, which destroyed the store and adjacent storage buildings, was resolute in his commitment to regroup and rebuild, sharing, “It was a sudden event, which caught us all by surprise...I don’t have the details as to how the fire started... Hopefully in the next few days we can confirm what caused the incident... It has impacted us big time, because that’s a part of our livelihood. That’s what we do to survive, with our kids. At this time we are trying to get everything that needs to be done, so hopefully we can start to move on with our lives, and get it all redone... I’m not down trodden by any means. I trust in the Lord my God, and I know with Him, everything is possible. So, with the material things which have been lost,... I trust in God, that all those things will come back, and maybe double for my trouble.”
Scenes
of the damage on the day after the evening fire.
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Picture This
The Government of the People’s Republic of China presented a cheque for $500,000 to the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, towards the Hurricane Dorian recovery and rebuilding efforts, on Wednesday, October 9, 2019 at NEMA on Gladstone Road. Pictured are Captain Stephen Russell, Director of NEMA, and His Excellency Huang Qinguo, Ambassador, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. (PHOTO/NEMA)
Awareness
NASSAU, The Bahamas -- As part of the entity’s ongoing community outreach programming, Secretary of the Trafficking In Persons Secretariat, Corrections Corporal Keva Sherman (pictured) speaks to T. G. Glover Primary School sixth-grade students on the topic of trafficking in children, on October 15, 2019. She was joined by Training Welfare Officer at the Department of Social Services (attached to the Ministry of National Security) Leslie Taylor (at whiteboard) and First Assistant Secretary of Ministry of National Security
The latest donation came on the heels of $20,000 for immediate supplies, and a $100,000 cheque from Red Cross of China to the Government of The Bahamas. The Chinese Ambassador says that its government cares about those impacted by Hurricane Dorian and is in support of the recovery and rebuilding phases. “We believe The Bahamas Government will overcome the difficult times.” Captain Russell thanked the Chinese Government for its timely gesture as NEMA progresses through recovery into rebuilding. The aim, he noted
and Co-Chair of the Ministry of National Security’s Trafficking in Persons Inter-Ministry Committee Susanne Knowles. School Principal Sheniqua Curry (in printed skirt) also introduced the speakers. The age-appropriate presentation dealt with topics such as being aware of their surroundings, signs that other children could be in danger, being wary of strangers pretending to know their parents, and the importance of having trustworthy adults that they could talk to about various situations. (BIS Photos / Eric Rose)
The Screen:- Trafficking in persons may take the form of : • Sexual exploitation • Labour Exploitation • Domestic Servitude • Forced Marriage • Organ Removal • Begging
is to return residents to their communities and get government services up and running.
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Official Ground-breaking Ceremony for the New U.S. Embassy, City Nassau BY The eleutheran news team
REMARKS Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis Prime Minister Monday, 7 October 2019, 6:00 P.M. • • •
Cabinet Ministers U. S. Charge d’Affaires Stephanie Bowers Ladies and Gentlemen:
It is a pleasure to be here with you for the ground-breaking ceremony for the new embassy of the United States
of America in Nassau. Our two nations have deep ties of friendship. We are bonded by history and geography, and shared democratic and civic values. This new $318-million-dollar facility, which will reside on a five-acre site, will serve as a symbol of our longstanding relationship. At peak construction, 160 Bahamians will be employed building this embassy, which is scheduled for completion in the spring of 2023. This new complex will be energyefficient. It is anticipated there will be a 50 percent energy cost savings from a variety of strategies including the use of LED lighting, solar-thermal hot water, and photovoltaic panels. Other sustainable features include: low-water flush and flow fixtures, and a wastewater treatment system to treat wastewater on-site, which will also provide 100 percent of landscaping irrigation. I am pleased that Bahamian art will be prominently featured in the new embassy. The permanent art collection will showcase works from American and Bahamian artists in various media, including painting, photography, textiles, and sculpture. The decision by the Government of the United States of America to construct the embassy at this site in the City of Nassau, is evidence of the strength of the relationship between our countries. While the United States is our major trading partner, and close ally
with whom we have deep security ties, the U.S. response to Hurricane Dorian is evidence that you are also a true friend. Dorian devastated or destroyed parts of Grand Bahama, and Abaco, one month ago. This was the strongest storm to hit The Bahamas. It was the second strongest storm by wind speed recorded in the Atlantic. During our time of need, the United States provided critical assistance, saving lives through the prompt intervention of the U. S. Coast Guard, USAID, and other federal, state, and local government agencies. The assistance is ongoing. We thank President Trump, the responding agencies, the US Embassy in Nassau, and the American people, for all you have done to help us. Ladies and Gentlemen: This new embassy is part of the wider redevelopment and revitalization of the City of Nassau into a vibrant, modern city. Just down the street, the new Central Bank with its Sand Dollar design will be constructed on the old Royal Victoria grounds. The old Central Bank will be repurposed as a museum. Just above the Old Royal Victoria site, the former Main Post Office building will be demolished to make way for a new Supreme Court complex. The Pointe, next to the Hilton on Bay Street, is a 200 million-dollar hotel, condo, retail shopping area, and entertainment project that is nearing completion. Last year 2.6 million cruise passengers came to the City of Nassau.
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In partnership with Global Ports Holding, we are embarking on a quarter of a billion dollar project to redevelop what will become the world-renowned and new Nassau Cruise Port. The new Nassau Cruise Port will include: a new terminal, a waterfront park, a harbour village, a new inner harbour, an amphitheater, a Junkanoo Museum, shops, restaurants and an impact theatre. The number of berthing facilities for cruise ships will be expanded from six to eight, which will mean more cruise passengers and more economic opportunities for Bahamians. The redevelopment of the Southern Recreation Grounds has also begun. In restoring the Southern Recreation Grounds, we are revitalizing the Bahamian spirit and our collective memory. The City of Nassau is reemerging as a dynamic, vibrant city, celebrating and showcasing Bahamian heritage and history. The Government of the United States could have chosen another location on New Providence to build this new embassy. That the City of Nassau was chosen demonstrates that the U.S. wants to be part of the renewal of this historic city. Our Administration is committed to expanding and broadening the revitalization of the City of Nassau from east to west, and from north to south. This includes working with partners like the Downtown Nassau Partnership. We will continue to promote the revitalization and redevelopment of Fish Fry, Junkanoo Beach, the Western Esplanade, Fort Charlotte, and other heritage sites in the City of Nassau. With multiple development projects in the City, each with values in the hundreds of millions of dollars, it is fair to say we are well on our way to achieving our long sought after goal. This goal is to make the City of Nassau one of the most dynamic cities in the Caribbean. We will also have to build for resilience. The revitalization of the City is even more essential, as the revenue from new tourism business, will play a vital role in the reconstruction of Abaco and Grand Bahama. Let me close by wishing you every success in constructing your new embassy. Thank you and good afternoon.
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Ministry of Finance said to be in Full Swing in Implementing Public Financial Management Reform By Llonella Gilbert
Hon. Peter Turnquest (pictured at podium), October 10, 2019 at Baha Mar.
NASSAU, Bahamas -- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. K. Peter Turnquest said in the Ministry of Finance, the heart of Public Financial Management Reform is the development and adoption of robust information systems. “We are in the full swing of implementing the project plan for this multifaceted reform initiative,” DPM Turnquest explained at a forum held by the
Ministry of Finance in conjunction with the Inter-American Development Bank at Baha Mar, October 10, 2019. The forum was held under the theme, ‘The Power of Data for Transforming National Development.’ “One of the ultimate outcomes is the eventual establishment of an Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) that standardizes and centralizes the financial management operations for all ministries, departments, agencies and state-owned enterprises.” He noted that if individuals could project themselves into the future, and envision how IFMIS will digitally
collect real-time data for planning, analysis and reporting across government , we can fore-
see the improvements in accuracy and efficiency in reporting financial data, boosting transparency and ultimately resulting in fiscal savings for the government. DPM Turnquest said combined with the phased roll-out of the new
online Customs clearance platform, Click2Clear, one can see that the
future for data in this country is looking completely transformed. He stated that Click2Clear is completely modernizing the way Customs operates. “The online system is de-
Official Funeral
NASSAU, The Bahamas -- An Official Funeral was held for former Cabinet Minister and well-known businessman, Mr. Tennyson Wells on Friday morning, October 11, 2019 at Christ Church Cathedral. Interment was at Woodlawn Gardens. Governor General His Excellency the Most Hon. Cornelius A. Smith, Prime Minister the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis, Cabinet Ministers and officials joined family and friends in commemorating his life. Prime Minister Minnis is pictured, with tribute and condolences. (BIS Photos/Derek Smith)
signed to deliver faster, more efficient and comprehensive Customs processing once fully implemented.” The DPM explained that this means end-to-end online Customs processing and tracking, automated entry checking, tighter controls and risk management to reduce corruption and fraud, more accountability to protect government revenue, more statistical information and data derived from artificial intelligence that can be used for effective policy making. “From a fiscal point of view, I cannot overstate the potential loss of opportunity for even more robust economic growth when we do not have sufficient real-time data and data analytics on what is happening in our economy. With it, we can see things from enhanced perspectives. We can be more innovative and proactive when it comes to crafting fiscal and economic policy.” He said, “While all of this work is in the implementation phase, it is admittedly difficult to see the full benefits. But I am confident that the government is putting in place a powerful foundation that will benefit us for years to come.”
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National Exam Results 2019: Eleuthera Top Achievers (Listed)
Harbour Island All Age Above and left: Top achieving students at the Harbour Island All Age School in the national BJC and BGCSE examinations, stand with interim Principal Mrs. Shanna Johnson
Minister of Education Jeffrey Lloyd, on August 20th, 2019, during the Public School Administrators Conclave, said that there was a “slight improvement” in the national averages for the Bahamas Junior Certificate (BJC) and the Bahamas General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE) exam scores in 2019. During the conclave he also commented that the government was working to improve graduation rates, which currently averaged in the low 50’s. During the next year, he said the aim was to achieve a 60-65% graduation rate to stay on target to meet their 2030 objective. According to the Ministry of Education, the Bahamas General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE) examination is designed to cater to at least eighty (80%) percent of students in grade twelve. The total number of subjects offered is twenty-even (27). The number of subjects offered in the Bahamas Junior Certificate (BJC) examination is thirteen (13). Students in Eleuthera who achieved the most passes of C grade or higher in the 2019 BJC and BGCSE National Examinations, are outlined below for five of the public high schools in the Eleuthera District. At Central Eleuthera High School (CEHS) the students with top results included: BJC exams (Grades 9 and 10): Wallace Sineus - 3 A’s, 7 B’s; Johnathan Randall – 5 A’s, 4 B’s; Rosemellie Clofa – 3 A’s, 2 B’s 3 C’s; Covanna Johnson – 1 A, 4 B’s, 2 C’s, 2 D’s; Rolaysia Maycock – 1 A, 6 C’s, 1 D; Sidria Thurston – 4 B’s, 4 C’s; Valiyah Fernander – 2 B’s, 5 C’s, 1 D; Vonzell Fox -4 A’s, 3 B’s; Wayne Weinburger – 1 A, 2 B’s, 3 C’s, 1 D; Toccara Sands – 2 B’s, 2 C’s, 3 D’s; Ricardo Belle – 3 A’s, 3 B’s; Kaitya Jean - 2 B’s, 3 C’s, 1 D; Torii Knowles – 3 A’s, 1 B, 1 C; Jahzara Taylor - 2 A’s, 3 B’s; Kiara Farquharson -1 A, 3 B’s, 1 C; Samuel Hanna – 1 A, 2 B’s, 2 D’s; Shammah Thompson – 3 B’s, 1 C, 1 D; Tonnique Cash – 2 B’s, 1 C, 2 D’s; Philema Culmer – 2 B’s, 1 C, 2 D’s; Kashon Heastie - 1 A, 2 B’s, 1 C; Jamae Hanna – 2 B’s, 1 C, 1 D; Ricara Johnson – 1 B, 2 C’s, 1 D.
Preston H. Albury High School Top achieving students at the Preston H. Albury High School in the national BJC (top) and BGCSE (left) examinations.
(Grade 8): Brady Sineus -2 A’s, 3 B’s; Omarion Dean – 2 A’s, 2 B’s, 1 C; Kamia Darville – 2 A’s, 1 B, 1 C; Amerie Fernander – 2 B’s, 2 C’s; Cameron Moss - 3 Bs; Regnisha Pierre - 2 B’s, 1 C; Antonio Clare -3 C’s; Mia Smith – 1 A, 1 C; Rushae Stubbs – 1 A, 1 C; Leante Albury – 1 B, 1 C; Hannah Nottage – 1 B, 1 C; Caleb McPhee – 1 B, 1 C; Caiden Spence - 1 B.
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Below: Ava Underwood, with 6 A’s and 2 B’s in the BJC examinations, was the top performer at Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School (SGPAAS). Standing next to her, Conner Pinder, with 5 A’s and 2 B’s took the second highest performer spot in the BJC’s at SGPAAS.
Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School Above: Top achieving students at the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School in the national BJC examinations 2019..
BGCSE exams (Grade 12): Lamar Sineus – 4 A’s, 2 B’s, 4 C’s; Joshua Jolly – 2 A’s, 2 B’s, 5 C’s; Jason thompson – 1 A, 6 B’s, 1 C; Donovan Seymour – 2 A’s, 1 B, 4 C’s; Marcia Calixte – 1 A, 1 B, 4 C’s; Ashanti Heastie – 1 A, 4 C’s; Keneisha Cooper- 1 B, 4 C’s; Malika Williams – 5 Cs; Mattheo Albury – 2 B’s, 2 C’s; Jonas Fleransaint - 2 B’s, 2 C’s; Kiara Roberts – 4 C’s; Natisha Johnson - 3 C’s; Danielle Pierre - 3 C’s; Hadassah Rankine - 3 C’s; Kenron Collins – 1 A, 1 C; Shenikah Gaitor - 1 A, 1 B; Clauvis Jean -1 A, 1 B; Danaj Lundy – 1 A, 1 B; Girred Clarke - 2 B’s; Shawayne Knowles - 2 B’s; Aaliyah Thompson - 2 C’s. (Grade 11) Kristman Moss – 1 A, 1 B, 4 C’s; Equoia Gibson – 4 A’s, 1 C; Matthew Thompson – 2 B’s, 1 C; Genesis Thompson - 3 C’s; Lonneisha Rolle - 3 C’s; Roihyan Adderley - 2 C’s; Tre’Quan Hanna - 2 C’s; Jaheim Hunt - 2 C’s; Wayne Rolle - 2 C’s. (Grade 10) Alia Albury - 2 B’s; Medwick Rolle - 1 A; Sharico Farquharson - 1 B; Neva Dorvilus - 1 B; Bithia Rahming - 1 B; Jaden Carey - 1 C.
At Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School (SGPAAS) the students with top results included:
At Preston H. Albury High School (PHAHS) the students with top results included:
At Harbour Island All Age School (HIAAS) the students with top results included:
BJC exams: Jacob Cates - 2A’s, 3B’s, 2C’s, 1D; Roan Ricks - 3A’s, 3B’s, 1D; Conner Pinder - 5A’s, 2B’s, 1A; Ava Underwood - 6A’s, 2B’s; Aiden Newbold - 4A’s, 3B’s, 1C; Darcie Grace Morgan - 2A’s, 3B’s, 1C, 1D; Madison Kane - 1A, 4B’s, 3C’s.
BJC exams (Grades 7-10): Joshua Cooper - 3A’s, 1B; Garinique Delancy - 1B, 3 C’s; Shauntae Hall - 1A, 3B’s; Selena Ingraham - 1B, 4C’s; Weshante Moss - 1B, 3C’s; Geordia Neely - 2A’s, 3B’s, 1C; Micquel Cartwright- 2B’s, 3C’s; Shandia Curtis - 1B, 2C’s; Ameya Johnson - 2B’s, 2C’s; Sarai Lafrance - 1A, 2B’s, 1C; Antonique Wallace - 3B’s, 2C’s; Manilla Jean - 1B, 2C’s; Tyrone Saunders - 1B, 2C’s.
BJC exams: (Grades 8 and 9) Andrea Seddembe - 3 B’s ; Stephon Miller - 4 A’s, 3 B’s, 1 C; Sophia Johnson - 1 A, 1 B, 1 C, 1 D; Madison Wilson - 1 B, 2 D’s; Trishell Major - 5 C’s; Astralia Carey - 2 B’s, 3 C’s, 1 D; Raven Cash - 3 A’s, 2 B’s, 1 C; Zarian Dean - 2 B’s, 1 C, 2 D’s; Africa Ferguson - 1 B, 2 C’s, 2 D’s; De ‘Andra Grant - 1 B, 3 C’s; De Ann Grant - 1 B, 3 C’s; Tyler Dean - 2 B’s, 2 C’s, 1 D; Amelia Grant - 1 B, 4 C’s; Angelo Hudson - 2 A’s, 2 B’s, 1 C.
BGCSE exams: Merrick Underwood - 5A’s; Anna Pinder - 4A’s, 2B’s; Allie Pinder - 2A’s, 2B’s, 1C; Madison McGee - 2A’s, 1B, 2C’s; Daunte Bethel - 1A, 2B’s, 1C, 1D.
At North Eleuthera High School (NEHS) the students with top results included: BJC exams: Arianna Dean - 1A, 1B, 5C’s; Kendal Gibson - 3A’s, 2B’s, 2C’s; Don Johnson - 2A’s, 3B’s, 2C’s; Cilnus Meteze - 3A’s, 4B’s. BGCSE exams: Ernie Kelly - 1A, 1B, 4C’s, 1D; Jerold Kelly - 1A, 4C’s.
BGCSE exams: (Grade 11) Charline Dort - 3 C’s; Khiara Knowles - 1 B, 2 C’s; Sarah Carey - 1 A, 1 B, 2 C’s; Petra Kemp - 1 A, 3 C’s; G’Ann Morley - 1 B, 3 C’s. (Grade 12) Geordante Neely - 1 B, 3 C’s; Giltavia Goodman - 1 A, 1 B, 2 C’s; Valentino Stubbs - 2 B’s, 2 C’s; Oriana Carey - 4 C’s; Traliyah Carey - 1 A, 2 B’s, 1 C; Glenderia Francis - 1 A, 3 C’s; Charma Morley - 1 A, 1 B, 1 C; Johnnecia Pinder 1 A, 2 C’s.
(Grades 10 and 11) Manay Higgs - 3 B’s, 1 C, 2 D’s; Rojihme Johnson - 2 A’s, 1 D; Sarahann Major - 2 B’s, 1 C; Amauri Roberts - 1 B, 1 C, 1 D; Armani Roberts - 3 C’s, 1 D; Dann Turene - 1 B, 2 C’s, 1 D; Joshua Higgins - 1 A, 2 B’s, 1 D; Justine Knowles - 1 B, 2 C’s BGCSE exams: (Grades 10 and 11) Sophia Johnson - 1 B; Caseia Green - 1 C , 1 D; Brizan Gutherie - 1 C, 1 D. (Grade 12) Dayona Brown - 2 B’s, 1 D; Gabriella Cleare - 1 B, 2 C’s; Jania Davis - 1 C , 1 D; Melisha Higgins - 1 A, 2 C’s, 2 D’s; Florence Dean - 1 A, 1 B, 2 C’s, 1 D.
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E d u c at i o n B e at
Oct/Nov, 2019
Celebrating Excellence at CEHS
CEHS students who attained an Honour Roll and Principal’s List grade point average standard for the 2019 Summer Term stand proudly with their Principal Mrs. Marie Galanis (front row far right).
Synopsis On Friday, October 18th, 2019, Central Eleuthera High School (CEHS) recognized their best and brightest during the 2019 Summer Term at an awards ceremony held at the school, which began at 10am, under the theme, “One Team, One Goal, One Legacy!” Special Guest Speaker was 12th Grader, Miss Equoia Gibson, who was also selected as the new Junior Minister of Tourism for Eleuthera in 2019. A high achieving student herself, Miss Gibson encouraged her student colleagues to continue doing their very best. 53 students at CEHS were recognized for achieving a 3.0 or above grade point average, with thirteen (13) of those students achieving the Principal’s List - which recognizes students with a 3.5 grade point average or higher. The school hall on Friday morning was filled to capacity with students, proud parents and other members of the Central Eleuthera community who came out to support the achieving honourees.
12th Grader, Head Girl at CEHS, as well as current Jr. Minister of Tourism for Eleuthera, Miss Equoia Gibson was the guest speaker at the CEHS Summer Term awards ceremony.
Honour roll students were neatly seated together, surrounded by proud parents at the 2019 CEHS Awards..
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Proud parents and guardians celebrated with their children as they were awarded for working hard during the previous 2019 Summer term and in national exams.
Leaders of the student body were also announced (L-R) Roihyan Adderley, Prefect Captain; Genesis Thompson, Prefect Captain; Kristman Moss, Head Boy; Equoia Gibson, Head Girl; Tre’quan Hanna, Deputy Head Boy; and Elshauna Gibson, Deputy Head Girl.
Awardees 2019 SUMMER TERM HONOUR ROLL (Yellow Sashes) PRINCIPAL’S LIST (3.5 GPA and Above)
Amari Pinder 4.00 (7); Ellis Culmer 3.93 (7); Equoia Gibson 3.82 (11); Kyra Courtemarche 3.75 (7); Vonzell Fox 3.75 (9); Torri Knowles 3.73 (9); Medwick Rolle 3.60 (10);
Sharico Farquharson 3.60 (10); Brady Sineus 3.55 (8); Elshauna Gibson 3.55 (11); Kyla Sands 3.50 (10); Wallace Sineus 3.50 (10); Jahzara Taylor 3.50 (9).
TOP OF THE SCHOOL Awardees
• • • •
Top Senior Boy (tied): Medwick Rolle & Sharico Farquharson Top Senior Girl: Equoia Gibson Top Junior Boy: Amari Pinder Top Junior Girl: Kyra Courtemarche
Grades 7-9 (Junior High) HONOR ROLL (3.00 - 3.49 GPA)
Amerie Fernander, Vanessa Joseph, Rolaysia Maycock, Janae Cooper, Sidria Thurston, Jamaal Isaacs, Cameron Moss, Waldina Alcime, Savannah Munroe, Cianna Scavella, Britney Sineus, Johnathan Randall, Caiden Spence, Valiyah Fernander, Asia Jonassaint, Terrinique Sands, Kamia Darville, Omarrion Dean, Philena Culmer, Nikita Deal, Aretha Culmer, and Ricardo Belle. Grades 10-12 (Senior High) HONOR ROLL (3.00 - 3.49 GPA)
Mya Rolle, Caleb Bethel, Fayth Darling, Jaheim Hunt, Lonnesha Rolle, Roihyan Adderley, Kamesha Carey, Don-Alex Alcime, Genesis Thompson, Caelan Gaitor, Bithiah Rahming, Matthew Thompson, Wayne Rolle, Neva Dorvilus, Andreon Gardiner, Kristman Moss, Tre’quan Hanna, and Alia Albury.
Talent, both instrumental, and in song, were on display for the enjoyment of the audience.