The Eleutheran Newspaper September/October 2023 Issue

Local Real Estate web: WWW.ELEUTHERANEWS.COM

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Volume 16, 9/12, September/October Issue

Harbour Island, Spanish Wells & Eleuthera

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Eleuthera, Harbour Island & Spanish Wells, The Commonwealth of The Bahamas

Since 2008 - ‘‘Eleuthera’s most reliable Source of News and Information. We Deliver!’’ Monthly In Print & Daily Online.

BACK COVER: Damianos Sotheby’s Int’l P 3: Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty P 5: HG Christie

Mammograms now possible on island thanks to Bahamas Wellness ; CSE enthused by Community Volunteering ...

Bahamas Wellness Medical Director Dr. Jessica Moss, makes the mammogram machine announcement as Cancer Society Executive Jacquelyn Gibson and New Central Eleuthera Island Administrator Rochelle Anderson, look on at CSE’s Mix n’ Mingle Event in mid-September.

ADVICE

• When Lightning Strikes - 13

OPINION

• The Caribbean Should Ban... - 12

ADVICE

• Dealing With Difficult People - 14

Conservation

• Crisis in Paradise - 26

Highlight •

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Small Business Expo to be held in OCTOBER - 04 20 featured:

Our People, Life, Moments, Celebrations, Efforts, Strides...

Seahorse National Park, Eleuthera 15 Briland Marching Band 31 Contracts.. 37

• Hon. O. Wilchcombe 11

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Sept/Oct, 2023

Elle Events to Host Eleuthera Small Business Expo in October Elle Events, with event organizer Chantelle Sands, is set to host what she describes as the largest small business expo in Eleuthera on Saturday, October 14th, 2023, at Bayfront Park in Governor’s Harbour. “The excitement begins at 11 a.m. We are honoured to announce that the Honourable Clay Sweeting, MP for Central and South Eleuthera and the Minister of Works & Family Island Affairs, will inaugurate the event with his opening remarks. Businesses

spanning the entire length of Eleuthera will converge to showcase their products and services, gain insights from industry experts, and forge connections that can drive future growth,” she said.

The day, said Ms. Sands, promises not only to provide business opportunities but also a delightful mix of music, delectable food, refreshing drinks, and enticing prizes. She shared her enthusiasm, stating, “I am eagerly looking forward to host-

ing this event in Central Eleuthera. I extend a warm invitation to all businesses genuinely interested in advancing and promoting their ventures to participate by securing a booth or becoming a sponsor... We are also privileged to have Disney Cruise Line as our Platinum sponsor!”

Joey Gaskins, Disney Cruise Line Regional Director of Public Affairs, said about the upcoming expo, “Disney Cruise Line has supported business in Eleuthera through our partners like the Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce and the SBDC/ Access Accelerator, providing grants, entrepreneurial training and resources like the Eleuthera Business Hub. We see our participation in this event as an extension of our commitment to the business community in Eleuthera and an opportunity to learn more about the island’s business community.”

Gold sponsor for the expo, Sun Oil Limited Sales & Marketing Manager, Fabian Fernander commented, saying, “We

at Sun Oil are thrilled to sponsor the inaugural Elle Events Small Business Expo in Eleuthera. This event is a platform that not only celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit but also fuels growth for people. We believe in the power of community and local business to ignite innovation and drive economic growth. Our investment in this event signifies that we are not simply supporting businesses, we are empowering dreams and building a brighter future for residents of Eleuthera and throughout The Bahamas.”

Other key sponsors on board, said Ms. Sands, are Kanoo Pays, Aliv and Access Accelerator/SBDC. Scieska Adderley, Kanoo’s Public Relations & Communications Manager commenting on their participation, shared, “Having successful small to medium-sized businesses leads to job growth and creation, ultimately resulting in a healthy economy and community. The EleuP43 thera Small Business Expo

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Sept/Oct, 2023

Help Desk Launched To Assist Eleutherans In Accessing Gov’t Services The Ministry of Works & Family Island Affairs, now headed by Minister Clay Sweeting, officially launched the Department of Local Government Help Desk, powered by the Digital Transformation Unit’s (DTU) ‘My Gateway’ online portal, where scores of government services, are now available online. The Help Desk will have four main offices, servicing differ-

ent areas of the country, according to Minister Sweeting. Locations include, New Providence, Grand Bahama (serving the northern Bahamas), Eleuthera (serving the central Bahamas), and Inagua (serving the southern Bahama Islands).

The launch of the Eleuthera Help Desk office, located at the Administrative Complex i n Governor’s Harbour took place on Thursday morning, September 28th, 2023,

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Pictured : Acting Permanent Secretary Neil Campbell, in the Ministry of Family Island Affairs addressing the audience in Governor’s Harbour, gathered to hear about the launch of the Family Island Help Desk, powered by MyGateway online services. under the cabana, on the grounds of the administrative building.

Along with Minister Sweeting, a number of officials and public relations personnel from both the Ministry of Works, the Department of Local Government based in New Providence, as well as the Digital Transformation Unit, were on island for the launch.

New Central Eleuthera administrator, Rochelle Anderson, moderated the launch ceremony, which began at 9:30 a.m. In addition to remarks from agency and ministry heads, the ceremony also

included a live Help Desk demonstration, where a DTU employee made a call into the hotline with a service followup request - in this hypothetical case - it was a family islander following up on an application for a building permit. The caller was guided to a satisfactory conclusion of her request - with a confirmation that her application was actually there in the system, and awaiting on a town planning meeting to receive final approval. According to the Help Desk repP46

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Eleuthera Community Responds to Call for Volunteers

by CSE In efforts to rejuvenate its volunteer base to support its events and fundraising activities throughout the year, the Cancer Society, Eleuthera Branch (CSE) held a ‘Mix ‘n Mingle’ on Saturday evening, September 16th, 2023, where members of the Eleuthera community were invited to come together and formally register with the Society as a volunteer of the organization.

CSE president, Susan Culmer, stated how encouraged she was with the turnout on the evening, saying, “We were really looking for-

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Pictured : Ms. Maisy Thompson (on left), administrator at the Cancer Society, Eleuthera branch’s Wellness Center in Palmetto Point, stands with Mrs. Kirby (center) and Mrs. Bethel (on right), during the CSE’s Mix n’ Mingle event, which encouraged community members to formally volunteer with the organization. ward to strenthening our volunteer base, and seeing if we could get more people on board reenergizing the Cancer Society. There is a lot going on, and much work to be done, and as they say - ‘Many hands make light work’. So, the more hands we have on board, it makes it easier for us... We were very pleased with the turnout.”

She continued, “Our aim as well is to encourage healthy eating. As a result, most of our refreshments on the menu this evening were fresh vegetables and fruit, very light - to

encourage that kind of eating lifestyle... We have also talked about continuing our garden initiative at the rear of the Cancer Society’s Wellness Center, with a focus on our fruit trees. We have been able to pick mangoes, sugar apple, pomegranate, avacado and the like - so, we are trying to get in as many of the local trees as well... We want to gear the program towards cancer survivors, to make sure they get enough fresh fruits and vegetables.”

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National

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Sept/Oct, 2023

In Memory: The Hon. Obadiah Hercules

Wilchcombe, MP, Dies at age 64 years the loss.

(Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting; Leader of Government Business in the House of Assembly; Member of Parliament – West Grand Bahama and Bimini) The Hon. Obadiah Hercules Wilchcombe, Member of Parliament for West Grand Bahama and Bimini, during a long political career, served most recently in the Davis administration as Minister of Social Services and Urban Development, and as of September 2023 as Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting. In the current administration, he also served as Leader of Government Business in the House of Assembly.

The Hon. Obadiah H. Wilchcombe.

Known for tireless commitment to the growth and development of The Bahamas, Minister Wilchcombe passed away while in office, at the age of 64 years, on September 25th, 2023 in Grand Bahama; the nation was saddened by

“Obie’s untimely passing is very shocking and very sad. Even though he has achieved much in his many years of public service, he still had so much more to offer,” Prime Minister Davis said in a tribute following Minister Wilchcombe’s death.

A seasoned politician, Minister Wilchcombe served as Chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party, Member of Parliament, Cabinet Minister, and Senator. He was also a highly-respected Career Journalist having worked 25 years with the Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas.

Born November 14th, 1958 in Freeport, Grand Bahama, Minister Wilchcombe was the third child and second son of Jackson (deceased) and Mary (deceased) Wilchcombe. He received his early education at Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic School in Freeport and at Queen’s College in Nassau.

Following his graduation from Queen’s College in 1975, he became the youngest person, at the age of 16, to be employed at the

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Commentary

Sept/Oct, 2023

The Caribbean should ban lethal autonomous weapons Potential Targets:

By Sir Ronald Sanders The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies at the University of London and Massey College in the University of Toronto.

The views expressed are entirely his own.

Autonomous weapons are diverse.

They consist not only of drones but also of covert city devices and lethal robots. They can be precise, targeting key figures such as political leaders, judges, law enforcement officers - or anyone who opposes those who benefit from drug trafficking or other criminal activity.

Beyond individuals, our critical infrastructure is also at-risk including energy facilities that provide electricity to towns and cities, to ports, and to water supplies.

The Global Context:

Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com

There is an increasing chorus within the international community advocating for a robust treaty to govern these autonomous weapons.

Prominent international figures, including the Pope, and the UN Secretary General António Guterres, have voiced their concerns.

Autonomous weapons pose a clear and present danger to the Caribbean. Action to ban them should be seriously considered now.

Last October in the First Committee of the 77th United Nation General Assembly, a joint statement was issued , drawing grave concerns about lethal autonomous weapons systems.

This is one of four recommendations that I made in an address to a conference on September 5th, organised by the Caribbean Community Implementation Agency for Crime and Security on “The Human Impacts of Autonomous Weapons”. This article is a shortened version of my address to law enforcement officers, lawyers and diplomats.

Autonomous weapons are weapon systems that can identify, target, and eliminate a person, a group of persons or an area without human intervention. Unlike remotely piloted drones or other systems that require a human to make the final decision to engage a target, autonomous weapons can carry out these actions on their own once they are activated.

So, why should the Caribbean region be alarmed at this phenomenon? There are several reasons.

Our communities are already under stress due to increasing crime and violence. The illegal firearms that contribute to violent crime and homicides are a precursor to a more profound threat.

Can you imagine the impact of autonomous weapons being added to the arsenal of weapons that are now deployed in criminal activity? Consider a drone, meticulously programmed with facial recognition technology, set to target an individual. It scans, identifies, and eliminates its target all while operating undetected.

The statement said, among other things: “… the introduction of new technological applications, such as those related to autonomy in weapon systems, also raise serious concerns from humanitarian, legal, security, technological and ethical perspectives. We therefore see an urgent need for the international community to further their understanding and address these risks and challenges by adopting appropriate rules and measures, such as principles, good practices, limitations and constraints”.

Also, on July 20 this year, under the theme of “A new Agenda for Peace”, the UN Secretary-General recommended that all countries should “conclude, by 2026, a legally binding instrument to prohibit lethal autonomous weapon systems that function without human control or oversight.” The government of Costa Rica has also been proactive in galvanizing nations to address this worrisome issue.

The calls for international cooperation to curb autonomous weapons is a crucial step, but not all governments in the international community support this position. Indeed, some of them, which are already extensively using drones and other lethal machines in war torn areas and for targeting enemies, are resisting any binding treaties that limit their use of autonomous weapons. The Stop Killer Robots Movement has pointed out that this year’s meeting of the Group

of Governmental Experts on autonomous weapons systems, from May 15 to 19, ended without substantive progress.

Big countries that see benefits in these weapons are resisting strict rules. These nations are investing heavily in military applications of autonomous weapons, weaving them into the fabric of their defence strategies.

They argue that these weapons can reduce human casualties in conflict or be more precise in targeting.

Anyone who doubts the capacity of these weapons, need only look at television coverage of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine to see the death and destruction they inflict.

Small States vulnerability and Caribbean Unity How long before these weapons find their way into the wrong hands, unchecked and unregulated? While international negotiations grind slowly forward, the Caribbean cannot afford the luxury of waiting. Caribbean vulnerabilities are immediate and tangible.

Caribbean borders are vast stretches of open sea, posing substantial challenges. Policing these expanses for inter-state trafficking, especially for high-tech, compact autonomous weaponry, is a daunting task. Moreover, Caribbean governments would be burdened with an unaffordable increase in costs.

For instance, law enforcement agencies would need to be revamped, counter-terrorism units established, and intelligence networks enhanced.

Our vast maritime borders are conduits for trafficking, and the introduction of autonomous weapons into this mix is a nightmare scenario. Given the high stakes, Caribbean nations need not, and should not, wait for global consensus.

Their unity can be their strength. A regional approach, where Caribbean nations come together to enact stringent legislation, can set a powerful precedent.

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Advice

When Lightning Strikes

By Mike Lightbourn Questions or comments?

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

When lightning strikes, the bolts are so hot they can cause a roof to catch fire and damage a home’s electrical system. Fortunately, fire isn’t a common occurrence, but it’s not unusual to lose appliances during a storm. Lightning can enter a home through various means. It doesn’t have to be a direct hit. It can strike a nearby building, tree or electrical pole and the voltage travels into the building through copper electrical pipes and wiring.

Appliances can handle some voltage fluctuation after a strike, but super high voltage may damage the circuit boards.

While there’s no guaranteed method to prevent lightning damage, you can minimise the chance of damage during a storm.

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Disconnect appliances, TVs, com-

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Sept/Oct, 2023 puters, and other equipment from outlets.

Invest in whole-home surge protection.

Use point-of-use surge protectors.

A whole-home surge protection device (SPD) connects to the electrical panel outside. It’s designed to allow a safe level of electrical current to flow inside, but blocks dangerously high voltage from entering the electrical system. If it senses an electrical surge, it works to immediately divert the excess voltage into the ground through a ground wire.

The device also minimises electrical damage caused by blackouts from downed power lines, damaged wiring and large appliances cycling on and off.

Most of you are familiar with a point of use surge protector. It’s that strip you plug devices into. Its job is to manage current by either blocking or by shorting to ground any voltages above a safe threshold.

Use both types of surge protectors for maximum protection.

These devices will degrade over time. Inspect SPDs regularly, especially after storms and power disruptions, to verify they still function. All the lights should be green.

Lightning fires/Protection

Every now and then, a lightning strike will cause a home to catch fire, either because of a direct hit to the home or fire from a nearby tree or pole.

Lightning rods/protection systems can protect a home by directing the force of the energy into the ground.

Note, these systems do not prevent lightning strikes. They are designed to intercept a strike, providing a conductive path for the harmful electrical discharge to follow to ground through the appropriate guiding copper wires or aluminum cable.

Your home should be equipped with smoke detectors and fire extin-

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guishers.

Staying safe

Always go inside if there’s a lightning storm – it’s the safest place to be. This doesn’t mean you can’t get injured. About one-third of lightningstrike injuries occur indoors, according to the U.S. National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH).

Here’s how to stay safe while indoors:

Avoid water.

Do NOT bathe, shower, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during a thunderstorm. Lightning can travel through the plumbing. The risk might be less with plastic pipes over metal, but it’s best to avoid any contact with plumbing and running water, NCEH cautions.

Don’t touch electronic equipment. Do NOT use anything con-

nected to an electrical outlet, such as computers, laptops, game systems, washers, dryers, or stoves.

Lightning can travel through electrical systems and radio and television reception systems.

Avoid windows, doors, porches and concrete. Stay away from win-

dows and doors and stay off porches. Do NOT lie on concrete floors or lean on concrete walls during a thunderstorm. Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.

Don’t use corded phones.

Corded phones are NOT safe to use during a thunderstorm. Do NOT use them. However, it is safe to use cordless or cell phones during a storm.

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Advice

Sept/Oct, 2023

Dealing with Difficult People

Teri M. Bethel A bout the A uthor : Teri M. Bethel is a publisher and author of relationship enrichment books, Bahamian-inspired romance, and adventure novels for children that share our island’s history and culture. Her books are available where good books are sold in Eleuthera, New Providence, and Amazon. com. Teri and her husband have two adult sons.

Website: www.inspirepublishing.com If there is more than one person in your family other than yourself, you may have experienced conflict of some kind. That’s not to say all families have disruptive conflicts.

Quite the contrary, it’s incredible how some have mastered the art of honoring the other despite disagreeing with their perspective.

Unfortunately, this is not common. Many are constantly in the throes of a squabble or are on the other end of a splatter of random yet targeted verbal assaults.

Sometimes, these attacks can be overt, and other times, they may be in the form of subtle jabs. In either case, the intention is to undermine or weaken you. It’s natural to wonder why someone would do such a thing. Unfortunately, it’s not always because the attacker is careless or cruel, and it’s definitely not because the recipient deserves to be treated unkindly or subjected to their anger. In many instances, it’s simply a character glitch or lack of home training in that area. The abuser never learned how to be civil, how to communicate effectively, or how words and their use can either build a person up or break them down.

Do you still love the individual? You probably do. Do you like them, or how they conduct themselves? You probably don’t. The purpose of this article, however, is not simply to call out those who may be rude or mean because, truth be told, we don’t have the power to change anyone’s nature. What we can do is learn how to manage the situation from our side of the fence.

How do we do that?

As difficult as it may seem, we may have to see if there is any truth in what is being said.

If there is, then we need to adjust in that area to improve. Accepting fault does not make you any less of a person. It can be empower-

ing knowing that you are developing yourself in a particular area of need.

That can be extremely beneficial to you. The challenge, however, is the correction or complaint is not usually packaged in the friendliest way.

It lacks compassion and concern and comes at you like a battering ram, leaving a trail of damage in its wake.

In fact, being in that kind of person’s presence for any period makes you feel like you’re doomed to pick the pieces of enemy shrapnel from your body for the rest of your life.

Even in situations like that, though it was not the best delivery, you may want to think back: was this the first time something of this nature was brought to your attention? Were they less abrasive at first but gradually increased in terseness because of your unwillingness to make a course correction? Or did you say or do something (whether truthful or not) to offend them? You may want to stop and analyze the situation before running for a box of tissues. Why is this a constant issue? Is it just because the verbal assaulter is mean, which can often be the case, or have you not taken stock of how you conduct yourself? Have you been irresponsible and not doing your part at home or on the job?

Think of it this way: you may not see a splinter in your foot, but you are aware of the constant irritation. If you remove the splinter and allow the wound to heal, the pain will go away.

Take a moment to reflect on this: was it a simple splinter you projected? Can you man or woman up to apologize before the situation becomes more unbearable? A sincere apology is not a sign of weakness, as many seem to think. It’s a sign of strength and character that shuts down other access routes from negative forces to target you.

What some people believe is that an apology fixes the situation. The apology is like the icing on the cake, but if the cake is still rotten and you haven’t adjusted the ingredients, it is still impossible to eat it. An apology should follow a repentant heart. That means you have a genuine change of attitude and are willing to change the course you are on. If your apology is just words without action, you have wasted your words, and your position is even more aggravating, especially if you are someone who always apologizes but does nothing to make the necessary changes.

Following the trail In a recent conversation with a career educator, she mentioned how she was helping a child with a severe learning and behavioral disability.

In her research, she found that the child’s mother was the same way, as was the grandmother. This can follow in households where people are generationally kind and considerate to each other and to those they encounter, and of course, the more commonly seen problem of those who are generationally unkind and abusive. Theirs is the posture to take it or leave it. The “this is me” mindset: this is how I’ve always been, and I’m not about to change.

sive stench. Bitter people are no fun to be around. When you see a bitter one or a chronic complainer coming, you automatically find a reason not to speak to them or be in their presence.

Unless, of course, you are a talebearer, and you thrive on gossip. Have you noticed your family, friends, or co-workers are avoiding you? Perhaps it’s the aura or the stench your bitterness carries. You may have been in it so long that you don’t recognize the falling away.

How do you argue with that mindset? You don’t. You do not give them an audience. If they wish to be abusive, you can choose to remain in their company or not. If you do, it is with the understanding that you are treated with respect. You see, no one should hang around anyone who abuses or tolerates them. Time is valuable, and life is short. If you are not being celebrated or appreciated, limit your accessibility if you must be around that person, or move on to a vitriol-free environment if you do not have to be there.

In some instances, it’s a gift that people who pull you down or don’t celebrate you move away. In those cases, don’t go trying to get them back—especially if neither of you has changed. If you prayed for peace and they moved away, use your time wisely to develop yourself. Start from the inside. You need to know who you are and who you belong to. What is your purpose, and why were you created? Begin to ask these questions and allow the answers to help you to unfold a peaceable life before you.

Don’t be quick to link up with people before you learn to know what it is to love and appreciate yourself. Consider it a life-building sabbatical, where you shed the old skin to welcome the new.

What if you can’t move or it’s your spouse?

There is a scripture that says, “A quiet answer turns away wrath,” this is something you will have to engage to de-escalate a situation. But you can’t fake it. The peace you need can come from one source: he’s called the Prince of Peace. Holding your tongue will require practice and may feel awkward at first, but like any habit in the making, the more you do something, the easier it becomes. This is something you have to employ with your spouse and elderly family members if spending time with them is a must.

Choosing not to become bitter The woe is me attitude can bring on bitterness and, with it, a repul-

So let’s be mindful of the bigger picture when dealing with difficult people. You can apply these principles to your family life, work, church, or play. Difficult people don’t play nicely and stay in their corner. But remember, you don’t have to add fuel to an already troubling situation. Don’t expose your heart to people known to beat you down and trample on you like a pig with a pearl in the mud. If you don’t see your value and begin living like you believe it, why do you think others will?

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Local +Plus

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Government and BNT Announce Declaration of Seahorse National

Park on Eleuthera

On Thursday, September 7th, the Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs, and the MP for Central and South Eleuthera, the Hon. Clay G. Sweeting along with The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) and The Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) announced the designation of Seahorse National Park at Hatchet Bay Cave and Sweetings Pond on Eleuthera with a lease-signing ceremony. This announcement, described as ‘monumental’, comes after years of efforts from the BNT and its partners in advocating for the protection of Sweetings Pond and its surrounding areas as an official national park under the BNT’s management.

Sweetings Pond is a large, land-locked saltwater pond in Hatchet Bay, Eleuthera. It has many unique natural features, but the most notable of them all is its incredible seahorse population, which is believed to be the densest population of seahorses in the world. The new 548-acre national park protects the entire one-mile-long pond and the surrounding terrestrial area. The land surrounding Sweetings Pond is a blend of intact coppice, mangroves, and farmlands. In addition, the new national park includes the extensive Hatchet Bay Caves system. This historic cave system is a popular attraction and contains a number of impressive geological features. It is one of the longest dry cave systems in The Bahamas.

Since 2014, the BNT has been leading efforts to have the area declared as a national park. This included years of public outreach and stakeholder consultations in communities across Eleuthera; education presentations in local schools; science and research efforts; and engaging consecutive government administrations. In 2018, the BNT submitted the “20 by 20 Marine Protection Plan” to the government, which included the recommendation to declare Sweetings Pond and other areas in The Bahamas as protected areas.

During the lease signing ceremony for Seahorse National Park, Minister Clay Sweeting, said, “This lease agreement for Sweetings Pond has been a long time coming. It represents a milestone in our journey towards sustainable development.

It symbolises our collective responsibility to safeguard our natural heritage and create a harmonious relationship between economic progress and environmental preservation.

“I would like to express my gratitude to all stakeholders in this process of drafting and finalising this lease agreement. Their dedication, expertise, and commit-

ment has been crucial in ensuring that this agreement falls in line with our vision of creating a thriving ecosystem while promoting responsible usage. Let us continue to preserve the jewel that is Sweetings Pond for many generations to come.”

Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle, BNT Executive Director, said, “Today’s lease signing is the pinnacle of a decade-long effort to protect Sweetings Pond. The declaration of Seahorse National Park is more than just a designation; it is our shared promise to our community, to future generations, and to the world that we are committed to conserving our unique and diverse ecosystems for the benefit of all Bahamians. It also shows our shared responsibility in expanding and enhancing the national park system of The Bahamas. We are excited to now have our 33rd national park in The Bahamas, and our second in Eleuthera.

“We believe we can transform Sweetings Pond into a world-class national park, conserving all of its biodiversity while boosting the economy of Eleuthera through ecotourism. We will use The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve (LLNPP) located in Governor’s Harbour as a model for sustainable development, as it was until now the only national park on Eleuthera, and is recognized as a world-class, accredited botanic garden,” she added.

The BNT Executive Director said the organization plans to P33 continue working with BAIC, local farmers and other stakeholders

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Local +Plus

Sept/Oct, 2023

International University Collaborations between OEF and Eleuthera’s Communities aim to Accelerate Local Development This fall, the One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) and Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) are again collaborating with international university partners, Emory University (Atlanta) and Clemson University (South Carolina) on collaborative projects to benefit local communities and foster shared learning and cross-cultural experiences between The Bahamas and the US.

Above: Tasya Washington (left) & Kelly Kim (right) are part of a larger group of Emory Nurses who observed and learned from our health care professionals during the cohort’s Spring 2023 visit.

In partnership with OEF, student teams of nurses from Emory University have visited and volunteered on Eleuthera as a part of their study abroad programs for nearly two decades.

These visits have provided an invaluable opportunity for each new cohort to learn about the island’s healthcare system and gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges that small island developing states and family island healthcare facilities face.

Under the direct supervision of local medical professionals, Emory’s student nurses work in local healthcare settings where they observe first-hand

the innovative solutions and adaptations developed to best serve patients based in more rural communities with limited resources. This month, the Emory nurses will spend a week in South Eleuthera volunteering at local clinics, visiting schools, and providing free community health checks and health education.

Tarpum Bay. Approximately fifty community stakeholders and residents participated in an interactive mapping exercise, giving direct input on the strengths, weaknesses, threats, and opportunities to be considered in developing this iconic and historically rich waterfront.

Additionally, a team of students from Clemson University’s School of Architecture has begun phase one of conceptualizing the sustainable development of the Tarpum Bay waterfront. This groundbreaking project is being spearheaded by Dr. Hala Nassar, Professor of Landscape Architecture, and supported by OEF. It will engage Clemson’s undergraduate architecture students in redesigning the Tarpum Bay waterfront based on the local community’s vision, needs and desires while incorporating innovative, sustainability-driven ideas and best industry practices.

The mapping exercise provided critical data from stakeholders on ways the area can be developed to maximize the economic, social and environmental assets of the land and seascape, keeping the future growth and trajectory of the settlement and the community’s vision for its development at the forefront. The project will integrate key priorities like hurricane-resistant structures, sustainable tourism activities, blue economy opportunities, food security, and the establishment of resilient community spaces that promote social inclusion, enjoyment and authentic “place-based” recreational activities.

On September 29th, the initial fact-finding exercise took place at the Eleuthera Arts and Cultural Center in

“We are pleased to have Clemson University as an education partner and co-

Pictured Above: Emory student nurses are all smiles with the local Rock Sound Clinic staff.

Shown Above: Tarpum Bay community members and stakeholders sharing their ideas and input on the future development of the Tarpum Bay waterfront and its assets and opportunities.

2023, Sept/Oct collaborator alongside our community stakeholders in this effort,” explained Keyron Smith, President and CEO of OEF. “Community engagement is an essential component of sustainable development because it ensures that the needs of local communities are heard and prioritized. Community members are best positioned to identify the challenges and opportunities needed for progress. They can help shape development initiatives to meet their unique needs effectively.”

Excited to leverage her expertise and passion for sustainable development to this initiative, Dr. Hala Nassar cited, “Landscape architecture plays a pivotal role in the evolution of cultures, societies, and the environment.

Landscape architecture is not an art, and it is not a science — it is a hybrid.

It is a very interesting field that blends together the knowledge of science and the knowledge of art. It weaves artistic talents and inclinations with scientific facts and grounding — and that makes it super appealing to me.

It is logical and has reasoning behind it, but the results are appealing and easy for people to engage with.”

The Tarpum Bay Development project is the second initiative pioneered by Dr. Nassar on the island.

Last year, in partnership with OEF, her undergraduate landscape architecture students created a Master Cam-

Local +Plus pus Development Plan for the Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) in Rock Sound. The students’ designs focused on four areas: the Retreat Hotel and Welcome Center, the CTI Farm, and the expanded CTI School footprint. The students combined outof-the-box thinking, diverse campus sustainability ideas, and computergenerated design tools to present brilliant concepts for the future CTI campus. The original research and mapping exercise was conducted in collaboration with Val Pintard of the University of The Bahamas and UB’s Department of Architecture and Technology students.

Dr. Nassar’s current class will spend the next eight months poring over the data and generating problem-solving ideas to incorporate into their submissions. The cohort will work on concepts to amplify the potential of the Tarpum Bay waterfront to become a prominent attraction and place for greater commerce and social engagement. They will wrap up this project in May of 2024 and visit Eleuthera to present their portfolio of work to the Tarpum Bay community in hopes that the visual concepts and ideas can be used to revitalize the area and provide the community with a sustainable development plan to actualize in the coming months and years.

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Local

Sept/Oct, 2023

DPM Touts 2026 As Target Completion Date for New North Eleuthera Airport Deputy Prime Minister (DPM), the Hon. I. Chester Cooper along with Member of Parliament for North Eleuthera, the Hon. Sylvanus Petty, accompanied by Director of Aviation, Dr. Kenneth Romer, and other officers from the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation (MOTIA), the Ministry of Works, and Airport Authority, hosted a town hall meeting at the Trinity of Praise Ministries location in Lower Bogue, during the evening of Wednesday, September 20th, 2023.

The stated purpose of the meeting was to update the North Eleuthera community on the status of the North Eleuthera airport, and inform them of the government’s short term, and longer term plans for the facility.

Along with North Eleuthera mainland residents, sizeable contingents of Harbour Island and Spanish Wells residents were also in the audience, mainly associated with the local government district councils, and other stakehold-

ers closely tied with operations at the North Eleuthera airport.

Deputy Prime Minister Cooper, when asked about why he thought it important to be there in person at the town hall meeting on Wednesday evening, replied, “I understand how significant the airport is for the people of this area of North Eleuthera - how significant this airport is for tourism and the economy, and I wanted to personally come to say to them, notwithstanding that it has been a while, we are committed to having it completed by 2026.

“I think hearing that from me would be important for any family islander and I wanted to be here this evening to let people know that we understand that there has been much discomfort in terms of the operations, in terms of guests standing in the elements, and for our residents traveling back and forth having to endure the poor conditions of this airport. So, we feel the pain of

the community and we are doing something about it. I think that’s the primary messaging today, and most importantly, a commitment to 2026 - to have it completed - is the message I wanted to leave.”

Aviation Director Dr. Romer, addressed the capacity audience, saying, “We have come this evening as a commitment to not just expedite the required upgrades, but to engage the community, because we don’t have all the answers. This is the beginning of a series of town meetings. We want to be able to have you as participants. So we are not just presenting options, with you outside P40 looking in. You have a seat around the

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Local

The Eleutheran

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Local

Sept/Oct, 2023

Central Eleuthera Receives New Administrator - Rochelle Anderson from Deep Creek.”

Comparing the two islands, Ms. Anderson described, “With Exuma, it’s actually exploding. There are two townships in Exuma. You have three main areas - the Cays, Mainland Exuma, and Ragged Island. The mainland is made up of two townships, then you have the Cays - including Staniel Cay, Farmer’s Cay, and Blackpoint. Then Ragged Island. The responsibilities in Exuma would differ a little from Eleuthera, in terms of economic growth. There, you have more influence from foreign investors and investments - so, you interact more with that foreign element. You still have the local community you are working for there, but here in Eleuthera the main focus are the local residents. So, the responsibility load is more in terms of our locals compared to Exuma.

Rochelle Anderson, new Central Eleuthera administrator.

The Central Eleuthera administrative district saw a change in leadership recently, when administrator Earl Campbell was relocated to the Exuma district, and administrator Rochelle Anderson - who had been based in Exuma, was posted to Central Eleuthera. She arrived on island early in September 2023, and hit the ground running, displaying a zeal and eagerness to excel in her service - immersing herself in community events, getting to know her team, and pulling off the planning of several events, spearheaded by her office in just a few weeks in the new post.

During an interview on Thursday, September 28th, Ms. Anderson, shared a bit about her experiences before arriving in Eleuthera, her vision for her new posting on the island, as well as her take on the important role that local government plays within communities throughout the Family of Bahamian Islands.

Ms. Anderson, revealing that she was quite new to administration, said that she entered this new career path in September of 2022.

“So, I recently celebrated my one year anniversary as an administrator. I was a teacher for 27 years teaching both English Language and Literature. I’ve taught in Nas-

sau, Grand Bahama, Exuma, and Long Island.”

When asked about what had prompted the change in career, she explained, “It was just a change in path direction. I believe in giving back to my community, and I see the family island administrator’s platform as a larger platform, where I can do more for my country. More for my communities and for people where I am appointed to serve.”

Her first year, serving as an administrator, said Ms. Anderson, was a very good one, “I was in Exuma, and the entire year has been good, a great experience. Everything has been a learning experience, and with learning comes growth - and more empowerment, because you have that knowledge. So, Exuma was also great in that I would have been there before as an educator, and then returned as an administrator, twenty years later. So, the people I was serving would have been former students and parents and people that I knew.

“Coming here to Eleuthera now is another great experience, because my roots are planted in South Eleuthera. My Eleuthera connection is my grandfather Reginald Anderson, who was from Deep Creek, South Eleuthera. My mother, and all of her siblings were also

“It’s also a balance. I think this will help make me more well rounded. Exuma was a cash and banking district.

Here in Eleuthera, I only have a banking district. So, I think that where ever I

go, that experience that I got in Exuma is helping me with transitioning here to Eleuthera - even though it is a bigger district.”

Talking about her time so far in Eleuthera, and her hopes in going forward, she offered, “I would have hit the ground running. Today makes my 4th week here in the island of Eleuthera, and in this district. Some of the things I think I may want to focus on - and perhaps it is because of my background as an educator. I believe in empowering our young people. I believe when they see us doing what’s right, it helps them. Because, it’s about modeling and mentoring. They need to be able to see someone else. So, I have spoken to the members of my local councils and townships in the communities, to let them know that we want to pursue being more at the forefront. When young people see you and they realize that you are doing it - it gives them the hope, and that understanding the ‘hey, this is something that I can do’. ‘I can run for local gov-

2023, Sept/Oct ernment - for the township or even end up on the district council’. I want them to be more empowered.”

With the government’s focus recently on pending upgrades and changes within the system of local government, Ms. Anderson shared her views on some of the changes needed, saying, “If we go to the ‘old landmark’ it’s there. Some of the things we need are already there, in the Act - as well as in terms of our procedure. Often times people are not informed, because we do not read. Some of the changes asked for are already there. I personally think that before you offer yourself for a position or for service, you need to make sure exactly what it is that you are going to be doing, and what you are getting into. Because, sometimes people sit in the seat and only when they get there, reality sets in.

So, proper preparation is key.

“One of the criteria I think that local government is looking at in terms of people who are going to be running is that they are capable and competent to serve in the seat that they will be undertaking, because the people within communities are depending on us. They are depending on us to do the right thing, to

Local represent them well - and to be the champions of the cause... So, one of the things that should happen with local government is making sure that we do some level of vetting of persons, prior to them being able to run.”

In response to being asked about what local government was all about at this time and its impact on Family Island communities, Ms. Anderson opined, “The purpose of local government is to bring governance closer to the people.... You can’t have the prime minister on every island, and you can’t have all of our cabinet ministers and department heads on each island. But local government is that avenue, department or agency, where you have governance that is closer and right there in the community, helping local people to be able to make more decisions for their communities - without having to wait for central government in Nassau...

“For example, councils would sit down and they caucus, and would decide on what the needs are for their townships. What are some of the community projects, or what do they see that would help advance their local communities. Each chair and members would sit down and

strategize as to how funds that have been remitted from the central government, can best be used to build and empower people in their communities. So, it’s very important. If you have to go through the red-tape, waiting for Nassau to get back to us - it’s a long process sometimes. So, local government is about bringing that governance closer to the people throughout the Family of Islands it is serving.”

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Classified - Help Wanted Business in South Eleuthera is looking for an Assistant *Must have basic Quickbooks skills *Proficient with Microsoft Outlook and Excel *Able to multi-task *Good communication skills *Good customer service skills Resumes should be sent to eleuthera2023@gmail.com

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Local

An Evening of Jazz, Dance & Poetry by CEHS The Cancer Society’s Wellness Center in Palmetto Point on Friday evening September 29th, 2023 was transformed inside with soft mood lighting, setting the stage for a night of jazz inspired poetry, music, dance, and solo performances, by students from Central Eleuthera High School’s performing arts club.

Students from a variety of grade levels, inspired by their mentor and club advisor, Ms. Sophia Smith, put their best foot forward and took to the stage, after weeks of practice and preparation. Ms. Smith, an energetic

Sept/Oct, 2023

On this Page: Above - Sophia Sturrup-Smith, English Language, Literature, and Performing Arts teacher at Central Eleuthera High School is shown with her young proteges - all of whom are either members of the Performing Arts club at the school, or part of a Performing Arts class. The ‘Evening of Jazz and Poetry event, held by Ms. Smith and her students was a fundraiser to help defray the cost of a trip by the group to Broadway during March of 2024. Below - Students, Britton and Johnson, dance to jazz classic, “Feeling Good”.

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The Eleutheran

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On this Page : (L) Courtemanche and Culmer student dance pair take on Michael Jackson’s “Remember the Time”. (R) Mrs. Dellareese Bethel-Culmer, Guidance Counsellor with Central Eleuthera High School, moderates the evening of jazzy arts. (Below L-R) Lavaal Fernander eloquent as she quotes ‘Prelude to Dream’. Rodriguez Johnson cites ‘A Poem about Jazz’. The CEHS ‘Temptations’ male trio of dancers present - ‘Ain’t Too Proud to Beg”.

and passionate educator at CEHS, teaching English Language, English Literature and Performing Arts - the visionary behind the ‘Evening of Jazz and Poetry’ - shared that the performing arts club, included both students who take the subject as a class, as well as students involved in the club after school.

The audience of supportive family, friends and community members, cheered on and encouraged the students as they performed in a variety of ways. Thought provoking poet-

ry, with titles like, ‘Jazz’, ‘Ancestors’, ‘Could Have’, ‘Prelude to Dream’, and ‘That’s Who I Am - Bahamian’, were delivered as poetry read aloud, or memorized presentations. The evening’s spectators also enjoyed solo singing performances of some of the jazz greats, like, ‘Born By the River’, and ‘At Last’. There were also talented pair dance performances - like the one put on by students, Britiania Britton and Tamika Johnson, dancing to ‘Feeling Good’, as well as the pairing of Aretha Culmer and Kyra Courtemanche,

with a spunky take on Michael Jackson’s ‘Remember the Time’.

Following the student performances during the evening of poetry and jazz, their proud mentor, Ms. Smith, commented on the courage and preparation that went into the production, saying, “The children just took it away. I put it in their hands - told them my vision, and they just soared with it. I am very proud of them. I am very proud of their accomplishments. The way they learned and delivered their lines. Some of P28

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Conservation Corner

Sept/Oct, 2023

Crisis in Paradise:

Bahamian Reefs Under Siege from Ocean Heatwave

By Natalia Hurtado (Perry Institute for Marine Science & Cape Eleuthera Institute - The Island School) and coral distress underscores the urgent need to address and mitigate these environmental challenges to safeguard these underwater wonders for future generations.

Embrace the Season: Are You a Fan of Summer?

For both Bahamians and visitors, summer offers a fantastic opportunity to embrace the water’s allure, engaging in activities such as swimming, snorkeling, spearfishing, or scuba diving. During this season, the water temperature reaches a delightful warmth, eliminating the need for wetsuits or premature exits due to chilling temperatures. However, keen observers who’ve had the privilege to explore the coral reefs this summer may have noticed unsettling changes. The seawater temperature has spiked beyond its usual range, and the once vibrant corals are displaying distressing signs. Many corals now appear ghostly white, while others have taken on a pallid hue, and regrettably, some have died. The crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas, now reveal how shallow areas have undergone a noticeable shift, diverging from their former vibrant splendor.

Hotter days, Burning questions: What is happening?

As summer unfolds, the tranquil seascape takes on a different hue, quite literally. The seawater temperature begins to rise, setting the stage for a natural phenomenon known as

coral bleaching. However, in recent times, the escalating impacts of climate change have cast a shadow over this delicate ecological balance, intensifying the frequency and severity of ocean heatwaves. In mid-August temperatures soared to a scorching 91°F (33°C). Coral bleaching is a striking sight, as once-vibrant corals adopt a ghostly white appearance. Yet, it’s crucial to understand that this bleaching doesn’t signify death but rather serves as a poignant indicator of the corals’ distress. The primary culprit in this distressing scenario is the soaring seawater temperatures, a direct consequence of climate change. Climate change’s impact on coral reefs is profound. The majority of Earth’s excess heat is absorbed by the ocean, causing global ocean temperatures to steadily rise. Although corals exhibit some resilience to temperature fluctuations, the rapid and sustained changes driven by climate change push them to their limits. Extended exposure to drastic temperature shifts leaves corals unable to recover, exacerbating the threat they face. In this battle for survival, understanding the intricacies of coral bleaching becomes essential.

The correlation between rising summer temperatures, climate change,

From Colorful to Colorless: The Process of Coral Bleaching Corals display their vibrant colors thanks to a symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic algae residing in their tissues. Coral bleaching occurs when this crucial partnership is disrupted. These remarkable organisms, despite their colorful appearance, are animals that rely on a microscopic algae known as zooxanthellae for mutual benefit. In this partnership, corals provide a secure habitat, while the algae reciprocate by producing energy as a source of nourishment and adorning the corals with their captivating hues. Regrettably, when corals encounter stressors such as shifts in water chemistry, pollution, or the pervasive impact of high temperatures, they respond by expelling these vital algae, resulting in their striking whitening. Surprisingly, even in this bleached state, corals remain alive, and if you look closely, you can still spot their tentacles in the images.

Can Corals Bounce Back from Bleaching?

When corals lose their symbiotic algae and bleach, they enter a vulnerable state, susceptible to diseases and potential demise. Corals cannot sustain themselves for long without their essential algae partners; they become weakened and starved. However, when the stressful conditions causing the bleaching recede, corals have the capacity to reestablish their symbiotic relationships and initiate a recovery process. Regrettably, in The Bahamas, coral bleaching has been reported a month ahead of the typical summer peak, and this premature occurrence is expected to result in substantial coral loss. Even if some corals manage to recover, their growth rate will be significantly slowed, and their reproductive capabilities may be compromised.

If only a few corals survive, they will face additional challenges in maintaining their vitality, as they will struggle to reproduce and rejuvenate the ecosystem.

What is being done in Eleuthera Much like coral reefs worldwide, coral populations in Eleuthera are declining at alarming rates, making coral restoration more vital to preserve marine resources and local economies.

The Bahamas Coral Innovation Hub project is based in Eleuthera at The Island School. This innovative initiative brings together the expertise and dedication of The Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI), Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS), and The Nature Conservancy (TNC). Through our combined efforts, we are committed to facilitating the recovery of degraded Bahamian reefs and bolstering the resilience of coral populations Preserving Coral Reefs: Why it Matters and What We Can Do” Coral reefs play a pivotal role in our lives, serving as vital habitats for countless organisms, bolstering livelihoods, and acting as natural defenses against shoreline erosion and storms.

The loss of these intricate ecosystems would be nothing short of tragic for future generations. The repercussions of declining coral populations extend to species reliant on them for sustenance, shelter, and reproduction.

Each one of us has a role to play in preventing coral bleaching and safeguarding these critical ecosystems.

By understanding the causes of coral bleaching and minimizing our environmental impact, we can make a difference. Reducing our carbon footprint, endorsing local policies that support sustainability, and practicing energy conservation are tangible steps we can take. However, the most crucial measure remains the urgent reduction of climate-warming emissions.

Let’s not forget that marine debris poses a tangible threat to coral reefs.

Proper disposal of trash and active participation in cleanup efforts are essential. But perhaps most importantly, we can amplify our impact by spreading awareness. Educating our communities, families, and friends about the importance of coral reef preservation is a powerful catalyst for positive change.

Together, we can ensure the resilience and longevity of these magnificent underwater ecosystems.

2023, Sept/Oct

Local

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New Night Basketball League Formed in South Eleuthera

Picture this!

The South Eleuthera Night League, which officially began play on Saturday, September 30th, 2023, was the brainchild of two young men - Arntrae Coakley and Jason Scott. They both had the idea, said Scott, and together, were able to bring the idea of the night league to life. Seven teams currently make up the league, including; Rock Sound, Governor’s Harbour, Tarpum Bay, Green Castle, Bannerman Town, Wemyss Bight, and Island School. The first set of matchups

on September 30th, played on the court in Wemyss Bight, brought together six of the teams. Governor’s Harbour bested Wemyss Bight in a 36 to 33 showdown. Green Castle won over Rock Sound, beating them 48 to 32 - and Bannerman Town claimed the win over Island School with 42 to 39.

Sponsors who helped to turn the idea of the night league into a reality, included - Island School, Quick Fix Construction, Scott’s Electrical and Maintenance, and Table for Two Luxury dining.

Organizers also gave a special thanks to JAP Construction, 3S Shipping, Mia’s Lettering & Designs and Ade Pinder Designs.

Above and Left: Night League teams proudly show off their new colours as they begin a season of play in the newly formed league. Organizers Arntrae Coakley (4th from left above) and Jason Scott (on right end above), are also seen standing with the teams.

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Local

CEHS Art & Music

these children, it is their first time on stage - so, battling stage fright and nerves.

But, they just went out there and did their thing.”

She continued, “I have children in this group with learning disabilities, with ADHD. I have children who stutter, and other speech impediments. They worked alongside each other and the children pulled each other. It was not all me. I am there to guide and to facilitate. But, I really want them to strive on their own. So, I take cues from them - ‘what would you like to do, and what would you like to present’. Even though they have these challenges, they moved above and beyound, and they just conquered. And that’s what we want them to do. We want them to have avenues to express themselves, so that they know they can do it.

“We had some children last year, who just watched - and this year they said ‘No, Ms. Smith - you’ve got to put me on the stage’. So, we have seen them grow.

And hopefully when they move on, I’m hoping we could develop an adult performing arts club here in Central Eleuthera - getting them into the arts, and we can have adult talent shows that come out of this. That’s a goal.”

On this Page : The CEHS performing arts band ensemble joins the jazz party with a musical piece entitled ‘C-Jam’, along with dance and poetry by fellow students.

Sept/Oct, 2023

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On this Page : Ms. Sturrup-Smith’s friend and colleague Mrs. Caroline Rolle (left with mic), in a surprise, spur of the moment move, raised $600 in audience donations to assist her with a family medical emergency she would have to face following the evening event. Ms. Sturrup-Smith’s reaction was teary, heartfelt gratitude.

In addition to the character and talent building, the Friday evening jazz production, also had another purpose, shared Ms. Smith, “This was a fundraising event for our children. We want to go to Broadway, and our hope is to go during the Easter Break, which is some time in March. And we want to shave down the cost of going. We want to go and see the ‘The Lion King’ on Broadway. That’s our goal. It’s our hope that some of the children who may struggle to pay the full rate, that we will be able to assist them by having fundraisers like this ongoing throughout the year, to provide them that opportunity. When we go to Broadway, we also hope to target some colleges. Because we are in the practice of everything being about education, and learning opportunities. So, that’s what we want to do.”

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Local

Sept/Oct, 2023

Administrator’s Residence in GH Rededicated; Unoccupied ~ 5 years

Unoccupied since about 2018, according to Department of Local Government officials, the building on Cupid’s Cay, which has served for many decades as the administrator’s/commissioner’s residence, was recently renovated, and given a complete makeover - bringing it back to some of its past ‘splendour’.

The historic structure, which sits on one of the most picturesque sites on the Cay, has housed twenty seven different commissioners/administrators over the years. The restoration project was part of an initiative by the Department of Local Government, undertaken to restore, renovate and refurbish a number of ‘Commissioners Residences’, including the significant property on Cupid’s Cay. On Thursday afternoon, September 28th, 2023, a rededication ceremony was held on the grounds of the newly renovated structure, which included a number of remarks and speeches by officials from the Department of Local Government, as well as the Ministry of Works and Family Island Affairs. A blessing and prayer of rededication was also carried out, ahead of a formal ribbon cutting, by pastor Leonard Culmer, with the Eleuthera Christian Council.

In his remarks during the afternoon, Minister Clay Sweeting, commented, “This momentous occasion carries great importance for all Bahamians as it underscores our unwaver-

ing commitment to preserving our rich history and cultural heritage... Today we gather to rededicate this historic structure on Cupid’s Cay, informally known as ‘The Cay’ to us Eleutherans, and we also reflect on the vital role of the family island administrators to this district.

He continued, “This position ensures the effective administration of our local government, addressing the needs of our community, and safeguarding our cultural identity. This residence represents not only our history, but also the safety, comfort and security of our family island administrators, as they work to support our community. Furthermore, I am proud to announce that the Department of Local Government has continued this initiative to improve its residences and offices throughout the Family Islands.”

Following the ribbon cutting by officials on hand for the occasion, including Acting Permanent Secretary in the Department of Local Government, Neil Campbell; Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Works and Family Island Affairs, Leonardo Lightbourne; and Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs, MP Clay Sweeting, the audience of community attendees were given a full tour of the rededicated residence, which touted a fully new interior design as well.

On this Page: Crowd gathered on the picturesque grounds of the renovated administrator’s residence site for the rededication ceremony.

Officials cut the ribbon ahead of a public tour of the location. Administrator Anderson stands with Deputy Chief Councillor Central Eleuthera, Phillipa Kelly in the guest room of the residence.

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Picture This! The Harbour Island Marching Band,

Back Together Again

The Harbour Island Marching Band, has been newly re-established, under the direction of Sergeant Howard Pinder, Mr. Daschiel Roberts, Mr. Casper Johnson, and Mr. Spooner Grant. The 30-piece marching band performed recently at the Home-going service for Mrs. Valerie Neilly-Albury in Lower Bogue, Eleuthera.

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Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera

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Local +Plus

Sept/Oct, 2023

Disney Cruise Line Shares New Details About

Second Island Destination In Eleuthera

During this year’s biggest Disney fan event, Destination D23, Thomas Mazloum, President of Disney Signature Experiences, shared updates about Disney Cruise Line’s (DCL) new island destination in The Bahamas – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, which will welcome guests for the first time in June 2024.

While speaking to the audience, Mazloum told fans that “With a stunning shoreline that overlooks vast, vivid blue waters, it is only fitting that we call this destination Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.” He shared the latest artist design concepts with fans, adding, “Disney is collaborating with talented artists and cultural advisors in The Bahamas who are helping to shape an experience that celebrates the natural beauty, traditions and artistry of this one-of-a-kind nation.”

Located along the southern tip of Eleuthera, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point will serve as a window, said DCL, to the natural beauty of The Bahamas and provide families with the opportunity to enjoy the site’s pristine beaches, explore nature, embark on adventures and experience the broader tourism offerings in Eleuthera.

DCL added that, once in operation, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point will continue to create sustainable economic opportunities for Bahamians and strengthen the community in Eleuthera. This development, they said, has created approximately 300 construction-related jobs for Bahamians – nearly tripling the number of jobs the cruise line committed to in its Heads of Agreement.

“We can’t wait to welcome Disney guests and Bahamians to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point to experience Eleuthera and all of its beauty, rich culture and history,” said Joey Gaskins, Regional Director of Public Affairs in The Bahamas and Caribbean. “The Bahamian community has played a special role in this project since the beginning. We’ve been intentional about supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs and involving Bahamians in both the development and operation of the destination.”

Disney Cruise Line said it has committed to creating at least 150 operational jobs, including management roles, with benefits in a range of disciplines and levels, and with opportunities for training and advancement.

As its fleet of ships and presence in The Bahamas expands, Disney Cruise Line states that it continues to invest in Bahamian communities and support programs focused on promoting culture, conservation, education and workforce development. Some of the cruise line’s most recent efforts include: -Partnering with Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce and Access Accelerator Small Business Development Centre to support small busi-

Above: Rendering of Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point - Beach Aerial. ness owners and entrepreneurs in Eleuthera.

-Working with Junior Achievement Bahamas to build work-readiness skills in Eleuthera.

-Providing funding and collaborating with students during the Eleuthera Junior Junkanoo Competition to celebrate Junkanoo and exchange ideas about costume design.

-Sponsoring the LJM Maritime Academy summer camp and hosting students aboard the Disney Wish to learn about careers in the maritime industry.

-Donating school supplies to nearly 1,000 students across Abaco, near Disney Castaway Cay, and in Eleuthera, where many of DCL’s crew members call home.

-Participating in regular beach cleanups across The Bahamas.

-Teaming up with community organizations to

build a backyard garden for the Ranfurly Homes for Children in Nassau.

For more than 25 years, Disney said it has introduced countless families to the beauty and spirit of The Bahamas and has provided significant economic impact while demonstrating a strong commitment to the environment and the community. Approximately 70 percent of the cruises offered by Disney have at least one stop in The Bahamas, all five of its ships are registered in The Bahamas and it is estimated, according to DCL operations, that it currently contributes more than $70 million toward The Bahamas gross domestic product annually.

For more information about Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, visit lighthousepointbahamas.com.

Bahamas Experiencing Explosive Growth in Visitor Arrival Numbers

The Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (MOTIA) revealed during the month of September that tourism performance has outpaced projections for the first seven months of 2023, with The Bahamas recording more than 5.89 million arrivals from January through the end of

July. Current tourism performance, they said, puts the country well on the way to closing out the year at 8 million plus visitors.

Of the 5,893,118 total visitors who came to The Islands of The Bahamas in the first seven months of the year, 1,133,494 arrived by air and 4,759,624 by sea. July year-to-date arrivals are pacing 59 percent ahead of 2022 and 30 percent ahead of 2019, the busiest year on record.

Comparing 2023 overall arrivals by month, March arrivals peaked at 951,311, making it the busiest arriv-

als month in the country’s history. To contextualize how significant the gains were in the first seven months of 2023, during the entirety of 2022, 1,470,244 visitors came to The Bahamas’ shores by air; another 5,530,462 visitors arrived by sea.

According to the MOTIA, overall tourist spending is also up significantly.

Major hotels in Nassau and Paradise Island experienced occupancy rates for 2023 eclipsing those of corresponding periods in 2019 and 2022. Average Daily Rate (ADR)

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his leadership in advancing this declaration during his tenure; BNT’s Botanist Dr. Ethan Freid; BNT Parks Planner Chantal Curtis; seahorse researcher Dr. Heather Mason; the scientific research community; and many other conservation partners for their efforts leading up to this designation.

The BNT acknowledges with significant gratitude the Leon Levy Foundation for continued financial support of its conservation and advocacy efforts on the island of Eleuthera, and all local community members who raised their voices to show support for Seahorse National Park.

“The BNT invites the public to stay tuned for more news about its plan for the country’s newest national park: Seahorse National Park at Hatchet Bay Cave and Sweetings Pond!”

To learn more about the role the BNT plays in managing terrestrial and marine national parks, conserving wildlife, and informing environmental policy, visit its website: www.bnt.bs and follow/subscribe to its various social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

SeaHorse Park

on Eleuthera to initiate the strategic next steps for Seahorse National Park, adding, “We have proactively created a comprehensive conceptual plan that will guide the sustainable development of park infrastructure, amenities, and facilities for public use. This includes the development of walking trails, recreation, and entrepreneurial programs, research initiatives, signage, and educational exhibits. The BNT is especially devoted to developing a science-based ecotourism plan to support local businesses on the island while conserving the park’s sensitive natural resources.”

She continued, “The BNT thanks the Government of The Bahamas, especially Minister Clay G. Sweeting, and The Bahamas Agricultural & Industrial Corporation (BAIC) for its partnership and continued trust. The BNT also recognises former BNT Executive Director Eric Carey for

is up an average of 59% compared to 2019 and room revenues are up 42% for the same period.

More than 60% of visitors came to The Bahamas for the first time, with arrivals from nearly every region showing an increase over the same period last year.

The Hon. I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation said, “The stronger than expected results speak to vibrancy of The Bahamas’ brand, methodical business strategies and the hard work of tourism industry professionals and stakeholders.”

“We are seeing record arrivals, because we have all worked together to resuscitate our tourism industry, coming out of the pandemic, and, because we continue to improve our tourism product,” said DPM Cooper.

In The Bahamas’ cruise business, The Port of Nassau welcomed the largest share of cruise arrivals followed by The Berry Islands (Coco Cay), Bimini (mainland and Ocean Cay), Half Moon Cay, Grand Bahama and Abaco (Castaway Cay), respectively. Overall cruise arrivals, January through July, are up 72.1% over the cor-

Photo Caption: Seahorses in Sweetings Pond, now the newly declared Seahorse National Park in Eleuthera. Photo

by Shane Gross.

responding period last year, and 43% ahead of the 2019 historic cruise arrival figures. Overall air stopover arrivals, which represent, “heads in beds”, surpassed same period 2022 numbers by 24%, and matched 2019 figures.

The destination’s biggest market for visitors remains the United States, representing 90% of overall visitor arrivals, followed by Canada, and the United Kingdom and Europe. The Latin American market is gaining momentum in its steady return to pre-pandemic stopover levels.

Looking at visitor trends, from January through July, 70% of all stopover visitors came to The Bahamas primarily for a vacation, 15% for weddings and honeymoons, 6% to play in casinos, 4% for business and 5% for “other/undisclosed” reasons.

DPM Cooper further elaborated on the country’s impressive tourism performance: “With a better developed downtown to complement the new cruise port and added destinations within The Bahamas coming on stream, the numbers will only continue to grow, if we continue to deliver great service and experiences. The plan for the redevel-

opment of Family Island airports and the construction of the new airport in Grand Bahama will reap rewards for Bahamians well into the future.”

“The last seven months of 2022 were the strongest in our history, prior to 2023. The first seven months of 2023 exceeded the expectations of tourism officials.

Our job is to stay ahead of the demand.”

Cooper explained that government initiatives like the restructured Tourism Development Corporation will present entrepreneurship opportunities for Bahamians.

“We are experiencing explosive growth in tourism that can no longer be explained by pent up post-pandemic demand,” the Minister said.

“Great jobs and career opportunities are to be had in tourism, but there is also massive potential for ownership. The government is putting in place systems to allow Bahamians access to the training, certification, support and capital they need to take advantage of the country’s popularity as a tourist destination.”

The Eleutheran

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34 www. EleutheraNews . com

Local

Sept/Oct, 2023

Students reintroduced to the JLGC program; Many register as ‘voters’ for upcoming ‘proclaimed’ elections

On this Page : Local government officials and council members who assisted with training students in the process of registering voters for a general election, as a part of reintroducing the junior local government program into the public high school system. (L-R ): Mr. Moss; Philippa Kelly, Deputy Chief Councillor CE; Administrator Rochelle Anderson; CE; Aliyah Thompson and Mr. Barr.

Officials with the administrator’s office in Central Eleuthera, along with area local government district council leaders, were at the Central Eleuthera High School (CEHS) early on Monday morning, September 25th, 2023, to begin the process of reintroducing the Junior Local Government Council (JLGC) program. This first step involved encouraging as many students as possible to get registered to vote and take an active part in forming their school’s junior council. This effort was replicated at each of the five public schools within The Eleutheras, by Eleuthera’s three Island Administrators and their local government teams.

Leading the relaunch at CEHS was new Central Eleuthera administrator, Mrs. Rochelle Anderson. She took up the post, based in the island’s capital Governor’s Harbour, during mid-September, having switched locations with former Central Eleuthera administrator Earl Campbell, who filled her previous posting on the island of Exuma.

Commenting on the program, administrator Anderson explained, “We have an initiative where we are relaunching the Local Government Junior Council program throughout The Bahamas. Central Eleuthera High is one of the schools committed to embarking on this en-

deavour, and they are at the initial stage now of getting their students prepared. This is the training stage.”

She continued, shedding further light on the inspiration behind the program’s reintroduction, saying, “What is happening with the Junior Local Government Council is our Minister Clay Sweeting, along with permanent secretary Campbell and the entire local government team - we are committed to ensuring that our next generation of leaders, of council members, council leaders, chief councilors and deputies - that they are all properly trained, that they are all informed - and that information is given to them.

“We do not want to die and take it with us.

We want to make sure that not only are our young people empowered, but that they are also educated. So, that when they are sitting in the seats of leadership, they know what they have gotten into, and what is expected of them. This is a part of succession planning, and preparing the next generation.”

Mrs. Anderson said that each high school’s junior council taking part would function like a district, and confirmed that they would be funded. Their funds, she explained, would be remitted through the administrator’s office,

and those funds were expected to be used for any capital projects the council chose as necessary in and around their schools and their immediate communities.

She further described, “They will be responsible for developing plans, initiatives and activities that will enhance their schools/district/communities. We are depending on these young people. As an educator, and a former teacher, I believe in attitudes. Sometimes we hear this thing, “Generation lost.” We have been hearing about generations being lost from our grandparent’s time. To me, there is some truth to it, but not all of it. It’s a fallacy.

All of our young people are not lost - it’s just a handful. So, for the ones that we have that are willing to work, and to be our future leaders we are going to work with them. We are also going to work with the ones who may not be as involved or engaged. This initiative is open to every student at Central Eleuthera High School. They can embark on becoming a chief councilor, a deputy chief, a town chairperson, or council member - working along with the administrator’s office, and with the district council.”

Mrs. Anderson characterized the task ahead of getting the initiative executed, as a ‘mammoth task’, but she lauded her new team members, saying, “We have an extraordinarily good team here in Central Eleuthera.

Mrs. Deputy Chief, Philippa Kelly, has committed, and she has taken up the baton - along with chief councilor Donald Fernander. I have young persons from my office who are also willing to work. We have Aliyah Thompson, and Alex Moss here today - two very dynamic young people, who both have a bright future in local governance.”

The five high schools being reintroduced to the JLGC program will have further incentive to accomplish great things within their school and communities, said Mrs. Anderson, with a competitive component added in. “The competition is the district award. The best district award as it relates to junior local government. So, the district that performs best overall will be awarded, and we will soon reveal soon the criteria to be

Local used for judging.”

The JLGC relaunch, said Mrs. Anderson, would take place in several stages during the next several weeks.

The exercise taken on by administrative and local government officials on the Monday morning at CEHS, as well as the other four public high schools, was the initial ‘training of the trainers’, she added. “We are training the students you see here this morning, who will actually be registering the rest of the student body.”

The first aim of the program was to have each and every student in all of the participating schools to be registered as ‘voters’, with trained students taking on the responsibility of the registration process - using tools and materials provided by local government - mimicking the actual adult registration process as closely as possible.

Nomination day and the day for elections of the local councils in each of the schools, said Mrs. Anderson, coincided with Youth month, celebrated annually in October. Nominations in schools were set to take place on October 10th, with the election day in schools set for October 19th. (See

Sept/Oct, 2023

35

Calendar Event Markers!

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(‘Back Ta’ Ya’ Root’) - During this time Bahamians and visitors come together and have a fun-filled time. There are a variety of dishes, desserts, and beverages to choose from. Lots of games, and entertainment for everyone. (Contact: Ms. Clara Young, (242) 470-4081, clarayoung9215@gmail.com Wemyss Bight)

Above : Volunteer students at Central Eleuthera High School, listen in as officials guide them through the process of voter registration. the article on page 42, describing the proclamation ceremony and information session held with various officials and selected students, on Thursday, September 28th, 2023) Administrator Anderson emphasized that the adult councils would also continue to work with the junior councils throughout the year, advising and following their progress. “It is about preparation. We know where we want our country to be, and we know where we are coming from,

and where we want to go - and that takes training. It takes good leaders, but good leaders only come with you empowering them through educating them. I always tell my daughter, I couldn’t say to you to ‘go and cook peas n’ rice’, if I have never taught you how to do it. I have to guide you and I have to show you the steps. It is the same thing with these young people. So, even in terms of parliamentary procedures, we have to get them prepared for that.”

October 4th-10th - Wemyss Bight Homecoming Festival

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October 28th - 3rd Annual Beach Walk (French Leave

Beach) - Join the Cancer Society of The Bahamas Eleuthera Branch on a healthy and fun beach walk to encourage healthy habits. Starts at 7am.

(Contact: Ms. Susan Culmer, (242) 359-7969, (242) 3321804, onesue28@hotmail.com, cancersocietyeleuthera@live. com - Governors Harbour)

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October 28th - Spooktacular - The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve’s annual Halloween event will be held on Saturday, October 28th fro 6:30pm10:00pm. Admission is $5 for children and $10 for adults.

There will be a live DJ, games, and complimentary treats with entry. The schedule of events for that evening are as follows: Haunted Trail - 7:30pm - 9:30pm. Costume competition - 8:00pm (Contact: Lakeisha Wallace, (242) 332-3831, lwallace@bnt.bs - Governor’s Harbour)

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October 27th and 30th - Public Schools (Bahamas Ministry of Education) Midterm Break (Contact: The Ministry of Education’s Eleuthera District Office, (242) 332-6211/2 - Savannah Sound)

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November 1st-5th - Governor’s Harbour Homecoming - This event is organized

by the Governor’s Harbour Development Association.

Funds raised assist with building the community and helping with projects for senior citizens and young children.

P37 (Contact:

36 www. EleutheraNews . com Page. 11

National

Hon. Obie Wilchcombe

Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas as a reporter. He then went on to study at the University of the West Indies – Mona Campus in Kingston, Jamaica after receiving an in-service award to attend the Caribbean Institute of Mass Communications (CARIMAC) in 1982.

After his return to The Bahamas and the Broadcasting Corporation, Mr. Wilchcombe was promoted in 1985 to Deputy Director of News and in 1987 he was appointed News Director. In 1990, he was promoted to the position of Assistant General Manager.

During his tenure with the Broadcasting Corporation, Mr. Wilchcombe was assigned to cover then Prime Minister, the late Rt. Hon. Sir Lynden Pindling. He also covered a number of major events including the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings (CHOGM) in Vancouver, Canada, Malaysia and Zimbabwe, the CARICOM heads of Government Conferences in St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda, Guyana, Jamaica, Barbados and The Bahamas.

He won a national award while with the Corporation for writing and producing the television documentary “Base Streets.” The programme illuminated the impact of cocaine on Bahamian society.

In 1989 he was appointed to lead the team responsible for the introduction of ZNS television to Grand Bahama.

From April 1999 to October 2000, Mr. Wilchcombe hosted the two-hour talk show “The Bahamas Today” that focused on the political, economic and social issues of the country on More FM Radio. When his professional ethics were challenged, Mr. Wilchcombe accepted four days in her Majesty’s Prison. He refused to reveal where he received a letter that was passed to him from a condemned inmate who, on the same evening that the letter was received, committed suicide.

During his tenure as Minister of Tourism, the Ministry of Tourism set record-breaking tourism arrival figures.

He introduced new airlift services. Two of the top three films of 2006 were shot in The Bahamas due to the policy of film industry development.

Minister Wilchcombe is credited with introducing several tourism niches to the country, including Sports, Religious and African American tourism; and through his efforts, The Bahamas gained favoured nation status from China to advance tourism for the Chinese country.

He was named the Caribbean’s Leading Travel Personality in 2015, an honour bestowed by World Trav-

el Awards (WTA) to acknowledge his significant contributions to the travel and tourism industry that year, and his positive impact on the industry over the course of a lifetime.

An avid sportsman, Mr. Wilchcombe was a former president of the Grand Bahama Basketball Association, and the Commonwealth American Football League (CFAL).

Mr. Wilchcombe is survived by four children: Sherrard, Obie-Cheryl Peta, Adia and Alisa.

Social Services, Information and Broadcasting Portfolio: Social Services

•

Sworn in as Minister of Tourism, with responsibility for the Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas and Bahamas Information Services (May 2nd, 2002)

The Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas (ZNS)

•

Contested the Bimini and West End seat (PLP); won (May 2nd, 2007)

Political Career:

•

Contested the Bimini and West End seat (PLP); won (May 7th, 2012)

•

Contested the Bimini and West End seat (PLP); lost (May 10th, 2017)

•

Contested the Bimini and West End seat (PLP); won (September 16th, 2021 [snap election])

•

Sworn in as Minister of Social Services and Urban Development (September 22nd, 2021)

The Simpson Penn Centre for Boys The Willie Mae Pratt Centre for Girls Bahamas Information Services

•

Elected Chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party (1995)

•

Contested the Marco City seat (PLP); was unsuccessful (March 1997)

•

Old Age Pensions Indigent and Aged Persons Care Facilities Rehabilitative Service (Depart-

Appointed to the Senate (August 1994 - PLP) by Prime Minister, the late Rt. Hon. Sir Lynden Oscar Pindling

•

Persons with Disabilities Public Assistance and Social Welfare

(May 2002)

ment of Rehabilitative Services)

Social Development Child Protection

Sept/Oct, 2023

•

Reappointed to the Senate (1997 – PLP) by Leader of the Opposition, the Rt. Hon. Perry G. Christie

Source: BIS

Contested the Bimini and West End seat (PLP); won

CTO mourns the passing of former chairman BARBADOS (September 25, 2023) – The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) deeply mourns the loss of distinguished Bahamian leader and former chairman of the inter-regional body, Obediah Wilchcombe.

and the wider Caribbean region,” remarked Kenneth Bryan, CTO Chairman and Minister of Tourism and Ports of the Cayman Islands.

At the time of his passing, Mr. Wilchcombe was serving as Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, and Leader of Government Business in the House of Assembly of the Bahamas.

Chairman Bryan recalled Minister Wilchcombe held the position of CTO Chairman twice (20022004 and 2016-2017) while serving as Minister of Tourism for the Bahamas, and contributed significantly to the advancement of sustainable tourism development in the Caribbean.

“We extend our heartfelt prayers and condolences to Minister Wilchcombe’s family, as well as the government and people of the Bahamas. He was a true champion for the people of the Bahamas

Chairman Bryan noted that the CTO plans to honor the life and legacy of “this eminent Bahamian leader” at the organization’s upcoming business meetings and the State of the Industry Conference

CHTA tribute

Minister Wilchcombe also worked tirelessly to create enabling environments for private sector participation in the region’s most important economic sector, tourism,” said Madden-Greig.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (September 26, 2023) – The president of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), Nicola MaddenGreig, said the passing of Hon. Obediah Hercules Wilchcombe was a great loss for the entire Caribbean tourism sector.

“In addition to his distinguished service to the government and people of his beloved Bahamas,

“So it is with profound sorrow that we say farewell to this great son of the Caribbean, whose legacy will long be remembered,” she stated.

A former Minister of Tourism of the Bahamas, Minister Wilchcombe was serving as Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, and Leader of Government Business in the House of Assembly at the time of his passing.

Local

Sept/Oct, 2023

Twenty contracts signed to help with Eleuthera clean-up campaign this is always done in communities where they are doing work. This is a give-back to the constituency, to have their presence felt amongst the people they are going to serve in regards to paving the roads,” added Minister Sweeting.

The twenty contractors signing agreements for bulk waste removal and verge cleaning included: David Allen (In partnership with Barbara Taylor), Grant Cambridge, Edward Cash, Sais Cooper, Claudius Culmer (In partnership with Cordero Williamson), Camil Francois, Harrison Horton (In partnership with Eder Michel), Demetrius Johnson, Lavardo McKenzie, Lashawn McPhee, Hilbert Richards, Indira Rolle, Kadejah Sands, Richard & Sammy Sands, Cyril Samuel, and McGregor Young.

On this Page: Twenty Eleutherans awarded with contracts to assist with clean-up efforts across the island on Friday, September 29th, 2023.

A contract signing with twenty Eleutherans receiving contracts to assist with bulk waste removal and road verge cleaning on the island was held at the Business Hub in Rock Sound on Friday, September 29th, 2023.

Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera and Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs, Clay Sweeting, describing the event, said, “This is a contract signing of twenty contracts to people on Eleuthera to clean the whole island from North to South.

Bahamas Striping who was awarded the contract to pave from South Eleuthera to North awarded the contracts as a part of their initiative to continue to assist us in this constituency.”

He continued, “Several months ago we signed contracts to patch all the holes in the roads, which is completed. This is another initiative which continues to build upon us taking care of the constituency and the island - and it is driven by Bahamas Striping... They are also assisting with dump management, and have been to several sites over the past week.

They have started to clean and push out.

They have persons with tractors contracted, persons with heavy equipment contracted to move the garbage to the dump.

Because there will be a lot more garbage on the dumpsites than normal. So, we are ensuring that we also keep the sites clean, while this initiative continues.”

“This is an initiative to clean the island, as part of their give-back campaign.

With Bahamas Striping, as a company,

Page. 12

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Calendar Event Markers!

Page. 35

Mr. Kevin Pinder, (242) 823-6824 Governors Harbour).

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Cancer Society, Eleuthera Branch Breast Cancer Awareness Month Events

Monday, Oct 2nd - Launch of PAINT THE ISLAND PINK COMPETITION

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Tuesday, Oct 10th - CSE & EMORY NURSES VISIT CENTRAL ELEUTHERA HIGH

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Wednesday, Oct 11th - CSE & EMORY NURSES BREAST CANCER COMMUNITY FORUM @ CSE (2 survivors’ testimonials, official soft launch of CSE’S Merchandise store)

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Deadline for submission of Paint The Island Pink Wednesday, 18th October

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Friday, Oct 20th - PINK SOCKS DAY in all Eleuthera schools.

(Awareness/ fundraiser)

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Friday, Oct 20th - CSE’S SIP N CRAFT FUN EVENING: BEDAZZLE YOUR BRA

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Judging of PAINT THE ISLAND PINK DECORATING COMPETITION - 23rd - 27th October

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Saturday, Oct 28th - CSE’S ANNUAL WALK

Commentary: Autonomous Weapons

Proposed Regional Actions: Here are four ideas for collective regional action: First, an immediate step should be the introduction of laws strictly banning the importation of autonomous weapons. By ensuring they don’t enter our shores, we minimize the immediate threat.

Second, those found breaching these laws should face severe repercussions. From heavy fines to lengthy prison sentences, the message must be clear: the Caribbean will not tolerate the proliferation of these weapons.

Third, beyond possession and trafficking, the actual use of such weapons should carry even more substantial penalties, potentially maximum terms. This deterrence will underscore the gravity of the act.

And fourth, with the United Nations General Assembly gathering in October 2023, Caribbean States have an opportunity to take leadership in pushing for mean-

ingful progress towards a new legally binding instrument. Every Caribbean leader at the General Assembly should include this call in their statements. Also, with the same vigour that small states at the UN fight against the existential threat of Climate Change, they should fight against the fatal threat of our police forces being overwhelmed by criminals armed with autonomous weapons.

Conclusion To conclude, the Caribbean region, with its unique vulnerabilities, stands at a crossroads.

Our States can be proactive, adapting our laws and bolstering our defences, or we can risk being overpowered.

38 www. EleutheraNews . com Select police reports, shared by the RBPF locally Queens Highway, Rock Sound arrested and cautioned an adult male after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was transported to Rock Sound Police Station where he was processed and charged with that offence.

• Drug Arrest Report On Tuesday 19th September 2023 sometime around 8:20 am Officers from the Governor’s Harbour Police Station while on routine patrols in the area of Pinder’s Lane arrested an adult male after he was found in Possession of a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was transported to the governor’s Harbour Police Station where he was • Drug Arrest, Assaulting a processed and charged.

Police Officer and Resisting • Drug Arrest Report Arrest Report: On Tuesday 19th SepOn Wednesday September tember 2023 sometime 13, 2023, sometime around around 8:32 am Officers 8:15p.m. Officers acting on came in at the Governors information received proHarbour Police Station with ceeded to the Government an adult male under arrest Dock Harbour Island where reverence to Possession they observed a suspicious of Dangerous Drugs with male suspect standing Intent to Supply namely under a white tent. They informed the male that he was suspected marijuana. The Officers reported that the suspected of being in possession of dangerous drugs suspect was arrested and cautioned on Pinder’s Lane, and requested to conduct Governors Harbour after he a search of his person. At was found in possession of that time, the male began a violent struggle in an attempt several packages of suspect marijuana. The suspect was to escape for the officers. processed and charged with However, the suspect was subdued. As a search of his that offence.

• Drug Arrest Report person revealed a quantity On 22/09/23 Officers came of suspected marijuana. As in to the governor’s Harbour a result, the suspect was Police Station with an adult cautioned and arrested. male suspect in custody.

He was transported to the Harbour Island Police Station They reported arresting him sometime around 11:40pm where he was processed while in the area of Haynes and charged Avenue, situated Governor’s • Drug Arrest Report Harbour after he was found On Tuesday 19th Septemin possession of a quantity ber, 2023 at about 7:00am officers from the Rock Sound of suspect marijuana. The suspect was subsequently Police Station while in the processed and charged with area of Lodge Street Tarthat offence. pum Bay arrested an adult male after he was found in Possession of a quantity • Drug Arrest Report of suspected Dangerous Sometime around 11:15pm Drugs. The suspect was on 22/09/23 while conducttaken to Rock Sound Police ing a routine traffic check Station where he was proat Haynes Ave, Governor’s cessed and charged with Harbour. Officers arrested hat offence. and cautioned an adult • Drug Arrest Report male after her was found in On Tuesday, 19th Seppossession of a quantity of tember, 2023 Officers from suspected marijuana. The the Rock Sound Police suspect was transported Station while conducting to the Governor’s Harbour a routine Traffic check on Police Station where he was

Police on the Island of Eleuthera continue to enforce our laws in an effort to curtail the use of dangerous drugs and offences related thereto and to reinforce the message of safe driving. During the month of September, Officers conducted nine (9) traffic checks which resulted in motorists being cited for approximately (106) traffic offences.

In addition, a number of special operations were conducted; as a result, Officers have taken into custody (17) persons in separate incidents for various criminal offences.

RBPF Reports

processed and charged with that offence.

• Drug Arrest Report On Saturday 23rd September 2023 sometime around 1:30am Officers came in at Governors Harbour Police Station with an adult male suspect and reported that he was arrested and cautioned for possession of dangerous while in the area of Ronnie’s Hideaway Cupid Cay Governor’s Harbour. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence.

• Drug Arrest Report On Sunday 24th September, 2023 sometime around 12:17am Officers from the Governors Harbour Police Station were conducting a routine traffic inspection in the area of Cupids Cay when they stopped and searched a white Honda accord along with three adult male occupants, during the search Officers discovered a quantity of suspected cocaine in the vehicle, as a result the males were all cautioned and arrested. The suspects were transported to the governor’s Harbour Police Station where they were processed and charged.

• Drugs Arrest Report On Sunday 24th September, 2023 sometime around 1:17am Officers were conducting routine traffic inspections near Haynes Library, Anchor Bay, Governor’s Harbour when they had cause to stop and search an adult male.

During the search officers discovered a quantity of suspected marijuana in his possession. As a result, he was arrested and cautioned. The suspect was subsequently processed and charged • Drugs Arrest Report On Sunday 24th September 2023 sometime around 6:20pm while in the area of Receivers Beach Governor’s Harbour. Officers arrested and cautioned an adult male after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was transported to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station where he was processed and charged.

• Dangerous Drugs Arrest On Sunday 24th September 2023 sometime around 6:20pm while in the area of Receivers Beach, Governor’s Harbour. Officers arrested and cautioned an adult male after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspect marijuana. The suspect was transported to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station where he was processed and charged.

• Structural Fire Report On Wednesday 6th September, 2023 at about 4:10am, a

unknown male contacted the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that a building on Church Street near the Green School was on fire. Police assistance was requested.

At about 4:15am, Officers responded to the scene. Upon arrival on scene, the unit met an abandoned two storey wooden structure located on Church Street, Harbour Island fully engulfed in flames. The Officer’s with the assistance of the local Volunteer Fire Service were eventually able to extinguish the blaze. The building, which was identified as the old doctor’s residence in Harbour Island, however, was completely destroyed.

Investigations continue.

• Stealing By Reason Of Service On 19/09/23 an adult female reported to Rock Sound Police Station that on Saturday, 22nd July 2023 she wire transferred the sum of $7,200.00 from her Bank account to a Royal Bank account in the name of an adult male for the purchase of a Nissan Note. Since that time, he has been avoiding her and saying that he did not receive the money in his account, although her bank informed her that the money was sent to his account. Police action requested. This matter is under active investigation.

• Fraud Report On Friday 22nd September 2023 at about 10:50am an adult female came into the Governors Harbour Police Station and reported that between September 19th and 22nd 2023 she noticed that some person or persons used her Royal Bank of Canadian Debit Card to make fraudulent changes. Police assistance was requested. This matter is under active investigation.

• House Breaking & Stealing Sometime around 8:50am on Thursday 14th September 2023, an adult male came to the North Eleuthera Police Station and reported that sometime between 6:00pm on 13/9/23 and 7:30am on 14/9/23, some person or persons broke and entered his home by prying off a pad lock to his garage and stole one red and white weed Whacker, weed cutter values unknown and a red five gallon container filled with gasoline. Officers visited this scene and commenced investigations into this matter. This matter remains under investigation.

• Shop Breaking and Stealing Report Sometime around 8:30am on Thursday 14th September 2023, the Principal of Laura Anderson Primary School situated at The Bluff, Eleuthera, reported

Sept/Oct, 2023

that some person or persons unknown broke and entered the mentioned school between 5:00pm on 13/9/23 and 7:00am on 14/9/23 the culprit forced open a north western bathroom window, searched and stole a Desktop Computer.

• Stealing Report On Friday 15th September, 2023 sometime around 12:15p.m, an adult male came into the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that while he was to work between 8:30am - 12:00am, some unknown person removed his JBL Xtreme 3 Bluetooth Speaker that he had left in his work area while on a break. He later reviewed the surveillance system and saw an unknown male remove his speaker. Police action was requested.

On Friday 15th September, 2023 sometime around 1:50pm, as a result of investigations into this matter, Officers arrested and cautioned an adult male of Harbour Island who was found in possession of the JBL Xtreme Bluetooth Speaker. The suspect was transported to the Harbour Island Police Station where he was processed and charged with stealing.

• Stealing from a Dwelling Home Report: On Thursday 21st September, 2023 at about 11:30am, an adult female came into Harbour Island Police Station and reported that Sometime between 11:00pm (20.9.2023) and 9:00am on 21.09.23, some Unknown person/s entered into her apartment and stole an assortment of nail and hair products totaling $2,416, property of her nail business. She suspects that they entered through a northern kitchen window. Officers visited and processed the scene. Investigations are ongoing.

• Shop Breaking and Stealing On Wednesday 27th September 2023 at 1:05am an adult female contacted Governor’s Harbour Police Station via telephone and reported that her mother’s shop located in Upper Bogue was broken into. The culprits had stolen her cash register and they had one of the alleged suspects detained at that time waiting on the police arrival. Officers responded to the scene where they arrested and cautioned an adult male.

He was later processed and charged with that offence.

• Traffic Accident Serious Injury On Sunday 3rd September 2023 at 2:50am an anonymous caller contacted Governor’s Harbour Police Station via telephone and reported

2023, Sept/Oct

Local

The Eleutheran

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MOE issues Condolences on the Passing of Students Dario Rahming (NP) and Chykino Thompson (CEHS - Eleuthera) The Minister of Education and Technical and Vocational Training the Hon. Glenys Hanna Martin on behalf of the Ministry, extended heartfelt condolences to the parents of young Dario Rahming, Head Boy at Queen’s College and Chykino “Kenny” Thompson, a 12th grader at Central Eleuthera High School, who both died suddenly over the weekend (Sept 30/ Oct 01).

“We all grieve the loss of these precious boys and pray that God strengthens their parents and family members during this difficult time. Condolences are also extended to the faculty, staff and students of Queen’s College and Central Eleuthera High. It is our prayer that their families, friends, loved ones and school communities find strength and comfort in our God, who has promised to supply us with a level of peace which surpasses all understanding.”

File Photo: CEHS Studnet Chykino Thompson; May 2023

that an unknown male riding a motor cycle ran off the road in the area of Queens Highway Savannah Sound and he appeared to be injured. Police assistance was requested. Officers visited the area but were not able to locate the driver, they received information that the driver had left the scene and was transported to the Palmetto Point Clinic prior to Police arrival. Officers visited the Palmetto Point Clinic, saw and spoke to the District Medical Officer who reported that the driver received serious injuries and would need to be airlifted to New Providence for further medical attention.

Investigations are ongoing.

• Traffic Accident Serious Injury Sometime around 6:10am Officers while traveling north along Queens Highway, Waterford happened upon a Yellow colored Toyota Passo resting on its left side with extensive damages to the same. Officers immediately approached and searched the vehicle and the surrounding area for the driver and passenger/s with negative results. Officers later visited the Wemyss Bight clinic, saw and spoke with medical personnel who indicated that their initial examination on the adult female driver is that she hd a broken left arm, deep lacerations to her right arm and above her right eye and that it was undetermined if she had to be flown into New Providence for further medical treatment as they awaited the Doctor.

Investigations continue into this matter.

• OPERATION SUNRISE YIELDED POSITIVE RESULTS: Officers on the island of Eleuthera conducted “Operation Sunrise” with its aggressive stop and search in an effort to remove illegal weapons and contraband from the streets of Eleuthera. The operation was conducted on Tuesday 19th September, 2023 and resulted in seven (7) persons being arrested for various criminal offences and sixty-six (66) citations issued for various traffic infractions and twenty-six (26) vehicles stopped and searched

-------The Eleuthera Division of the Royal Bahamas police Force continues to make its presence felt throughout the community as we seek to execute the Commissioner’s Policing Plan. These operations as well as community policing initiatives will continue throughout the Island as Officers seek to reduce the fear of crime, reduce the number of serious traffic accidents and discourage criminal behavior in our communities. The Eleuthera Division’s projection and initiative for the final quarter of 2023 will focus on higher Police visibility, continual operations to disrupt criminal activity and criminality, special visits to the elderly and ‘precious pearls’ within our communities, with more senior officers taking to the streets, along with active police and community togetherness.

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DPM Townhall ref NE Airport

table, and will be able to make decisions to determine how you benefit from the airport infrastructure in North Eleuthera.”

He then detailed his visit to the airport more than a month earlier, citing some of the poor conditions seen, and the problems acknowledged firsthand. Then he described some of the quick fixes executed to bring small relief, including new airconditioning, fans and new seating... “If we could have done it in two weeks, I am sure that we can come to some medium term solutions to remedy the inconveniences passengers are experiencing while they check-in, sitting/standing in the hot sun...” Referencing the government’s Family Island Airports Renaissance program, he added, “We have a plan, with a structure, and objectives, and we are going to do right by North Eleuthera, as we will do right for all of the islands...”

DPM Cooper in his address to the crowd, lauded the determination of MP Petty in pushing for the airport upgrades, and commented on the expanded expectations for the location, saying, “In your member of parliament (referring to the Hon. Sylvanus Petty), you have a fighter. He is committed to getting the job done... My job is to make sure that we get it done quickly... The airport is the gateway to your community, and we recognize the significance that it brings - not only does it bring tourism guests, but it drives the economy around the airport...

“We hope that this airport will not just be a transit point and a gateway, but that we will see an economy built around this airport.

So, as we speak further, I want you to consider what opportunities might exist, because we are not just building structures for the purpose of building structures, but we are building them for your benefit. The third reason why this airport is key, is because it will continue to have developers. And if we drive tourism, we drive the economy, and if we drive the economy, we get jobs and entrepreneurship for our people...”

Talking further about tourism as well as investment performance figures for the country and the island during 2023, DPM Cooper informed, “When we compare our tourism numbers against 2019, overall we are 30% ahead of where we were in 2019 in The Bahamas. But when we look at Eleuthera, we are 44% ahead. So, you are doing what you are supposed to do, and taking advantage of the momentum that we’ve built... Investments are another part of my portfolio, and overall for all 16 of the major Islands of The Bahamas we have attracted $7 billion of new investments we have approved in the last two years. Of that $7 billion, even though there are 16 islands, Eleuthera got $1 billion of the $7 billion. So, you are holding your own with tourism, and you are holding your own in investments.”

Returning to the topic of medium and long term solutions for the North Eleuthera airport in particular, DPM Cooper revealed, “In the medium term, we have acquired some temporary facilities to ensure that your guests, and you and your families are not standing in the sun when it is time to board a plane. If you have traveled to Grand Bahama on Western Air, you will know that their departure lounge is a temporary facility. We have acquired that facility, and we are bringing it here to North Eleuthera.

“It can seat more than 100 people. As soon as we can get it here, it will provide some relief. So, we hear your cry - your MP has been fighting, and we are doing something about it. This is not a permanent fix, but it’s no small deal either - with a cost of a couple hundred thousand dollars. We want you to know that we are putting our money where our mouths are, in addressing the problem.

And that should happen reasonably soon.”

He continued, “We are doing this, because we do not build an airport overnight... We project that it is going to take two years to build the new North Eleuthera airport... So, I say two years, but we want it done faster. Our plan is to get the airport done in the shortest possible time frame. I am happy to tell you that as a result of the Family Island Airport Renaissance program, and the work that

Above: Members of the North Eleuthera Community putting questions to the panel during the meeting. Questions in general centered on time lines, coming services, employment, the commonage and other concerns or curiosities.

our team have been doing, we have prioritized the North Eleuthera airport...”

DPM Cooper went on to say that the North Eleuthera airport’s design would be similar to the design of the new Exuma airport, which had already begun construction before the change in government, but had been stopped as there was no funding in place. He announced, “This week cabinet approved a

loan facility to complete not only the Exuma airport, but also approved the money for the North Eleuthera airport... It is my commitment to you that it is going to be completed by 2026. That is my commitment.”

During the remainder of his presentation, DPM Cooper showcased t h e proposed preliminary design elements of the new North Eleuthera

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airport facility, including both the land side and air side. The designs, it was also pointed out, took into account both resilience and sustainability, especially in light of the category 5 hurricane experienced in Abaco and Grand Bahama.

DPM Cooper also highlighted the desire of the government to encourage Bahamian investment in the tourism industry, and spoke about the recently created Tourism Development Corporation to aid that goal.

A robust question and answer session followed the presentations, where community members expressed support for the plans presented for the new airport, and asked a number of questions, ranging from land concerns to the possibility of pre-clearance facilities.

Notably, representatives of the Harbour Commonage were also in attendance. Along with expressing their wholehearted support for the airport expansion, commonage members emphasized their main concern as being good faith

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engagement and the receipt of compensation for the use of commonage land.

Former administrator, Mr. Harvey Roberts of Harbour Island, also introduced to the audience a community committee called the ‘North Eleuthera Aero Association’, put together by Mr. Sylvanus Petty, Member of Parliament for North Eleuthera, made up of a cross-section of North Eleuthera residents, to assist both him and the central government with getting the airport up and running by 2026.

Mr. Roberts explained, “We are going to help the member of parliament and the main group.

There are some things that need to be done at the airport. So we will solicit some funds and donations, to get some things done ourselves to start the ball rolling. When the modulars come, we will try to beautify them, so they look presentable. We need to do some work on the current airport roof - so, we will try to get some donations to start working on that. We will aim to get the ball rolling.”

Above: Officials with the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, and Ministry of Works stand with DPM Chester Cooper (center), NE MP Sylvanus Petty (second from right) and NE Administrator Stephen Wilson (on right end).

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Above: DPM Chester Cooper in his presentation to North Eleuthera residents, emphasized his commitment to the NE Airport being completed by 2026.

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No effort spared in Proclamation ceremony

as Jr. Council Government Program Relaunched

Shown Above: Students from high schools in Eleuthera attend an information forum with officials from New Providence about the parliamentary electoral process.

Above: Royal Bahamas Police Force top brass, read the official proclamation, announcing the date for junior local government council elections, set to take place in high schools across the Family Islands on October 19th, 2023.

At 12 noon on Thursday, September 28th, the Department of Local Government hosted a special proclamation ceremony, for the announcement of the date set for upcoming elections of junior local government councils to be held in more than 30 schools across the country as part of the relaunch of the junior council program.

No effort was being spared in the relaunch, which aimed to immerse the students taking part in the full experience of the parliamentary electoral process and how it is conducted, beginning with the proclamation ceremony and forum, which saw officials from a number of relevant government agencies and departments come together on the grounds of the administrative complex in Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera to take part in a comprehensive information sharing session, and question and answer forum, for the benefit of a group of student leaders, selected from the five public high schools in The Eleutheras, taking part in the national relaunch push.

Assistant Commissioner of Police, Craig Stubbs, with responsibility for public safety and community policing, along with his colleague Chief Superintendent of Police, Anthony Rolle, responsible for Urban Renewal were on island to assist in reading the formal declaration of the date set for the junior local government council elections, to take place across the country on October 19th - in the same way that the Commissioner of Police takes on the role during the national general elections process.

Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs, the Hon. Clay Sweeting, during his remarks to the audience gathered, said that local government since its inception had been a catalyst causing many Family Island communities to thrive economically and socially. “When local government is enacted and properly functioning, we see that those communities experience an ease of doing business and a healthier population and thriving community. Today we recognize that as with every industry, and with every profession, we are only as good as those we educate and empower. So, in order for local government to survive for changing trends, we must ensure that the next generation of leaders, sitting with us today, and of our many communities and our country, can gain the experience and the understanding of the practice and necessity of the organization...

He continued, “We have to be strategic in what we teach them (our children), and train them in our customs so they can continue with our heritage and our legacy. This initiative is the Department of Local Government’s feeder program. It is not new, but this revamped program is more robust, multi-functional, and it is intended to be deliberate with its outcomes.

“Firstly, there are more schools involved, with more than thirty in the Family Islands and one in New Providence. There will be meetings held with leadership at the Department of Education and with independent school executives. Secondly, it involved cross-section coordination of government ministries, agencies and departments. National Security provided the Parliamentary Registration Department training for all, coordination of a junior local government election process, and I am advised a first of its kind in the region and unheard of elsewhere. They will have voters cards, ink, registration - everything. Just how poll workers are paid for national elections and local government elections, these students

will receive stipends as well.”

He further informed, “Minister of National Security along with the Commissioner of Police, have allowed the air wing to assist in distributing the voting boxes and booths in various family islands. And to make this event similar to that of national elections, the Commissioner of Police has directed that a senior gazetted officer in to act as a Provost Marshall in reading the proclamation and announcing the election date.

Even further, the Minister along with the Commodore of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force had agreed for the use of their assets - both air and sea, to assist in the distribution of election materials.

“For the first time, the students elected to form these junior district councils will receive an operational budget, hence the need for the Post Master General’s involvement... The post office savings bank has a presence in each district, so, it was a nobrainer in having the local government junior council open accounts with the post office. We are grateful to Ms. Mabeline Miller and her team along with those school coordinators who will oversee the component, along with the principals, and those participating in the schools.”

He added, “We know that this will take up some of the instructional time, and also know that it will call for more sacrifices to make this a success... There is to be a stipend for both coordinators per school which will be considered as minimal at best. The students will campaign, and the successful ones will form a five, seven, or nine member district council at the participating schools.

They will hold monthly meetings and will discuss and debate matters as it pertains to the school environment. They may appoint boards, and will be mentored by principals, teachers, coordinators, local government district councils, and the Department of Local Government. But all the decisions within the

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2023, Sept/Oct parameters of the schools regulations and guidelines will be theirs.”

Minister Sweeting called on the young students present to be transformative, respectful, to be agents of change, humble, good listeners, and to model the type of leadership they themselves wished to see.

Agency heads that came together on Thursday afternoon in the information forum held in Governor’s Harbour included; Deputy Post Master for the General Post

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Office, Mabilene Miller; Acting Parliamentary Commissioner, Arthur Taylor; Parliamentary Secretary, Leonardo Lightbourne; Administrator Kristen Palacious, Unit Head for Local Government; Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Family Island Affairs; and Assistant Commissioner of Police, Craig Stubbs.

On this Page: Minister Clay Sweeting and officials pose with students from public high schools across Eleuthera.

Small Business Expo in October

will give interested persons the tools they need so Eleuthera’s can genuinely thrive. As a digital payments provider, Kanoo ensures that our users and merchants can access their money and give them the ‘Power to Prosper.’ So, we’re very excited to sponsor and participate in the Eleuthera Small Business Expo. We salute the organizers for their vision and look forward to meeting and chatting with you. We’ll see you soon, Eleuthera!”

SBDC Executive Director, Ms. Samantha L. Rolle, also shared, “The Eleuthera Small Business Expo is another great opportunity for the SBDC to engage and support entrepreneurs and small businesses in one of the fastest growing economic hubs in The Bahamas. As the SBDC has been intentional in our efforts to broaden our reach in Eleuthera, participating in community interventions such as the Eleuthera Small Business Expo is a collaboration that we openly embrace.”

Ms. Sands added, “These are indeed exciting times for the island of Eleuthera, with island development gaining momentum. The positive feedback we’ve received demonstrates the eagerness of business owners to elevate their offerings and the pressing need for an event of this nature to facilitate community growth and knowledge sharing. We anticipate a highly successful event!”. For additional information, contact elle242.events@gmail.com or call 804-1343 / 431-7301.

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Cancer Society of Eleuthera, Volunteer Drive

Maisy Thompson, administrator and volunteer with the Society since 2009, about the evening, shared, “Tonight, was a great success, in my opinion. We had lots of people who came out and volunteered.

They officially signed up to be volunteers with our various programs, activities and annual events. We had quite a few high school students also, which was very noteworthy, wanting to volunteer to complete their community service hours.”

The group of young student volunteers, responding to the question of why they had made the time to come out to the event and formally register as volunteers with the Cancer Society, shared that in addition to the benefit of being able to fulfill some of the community service hours required as part of their high school diploma aspirations, they acknowledged the good service they thought the organization was doing within the Eleuthera community, and said as young members of their communities, they were happy to be a part of that work.

An exciting announcement for the women of Eleuthera was also made on Saturday evening, when Dr. Jessica Moss, Medical Director with Bahamas Wellness, who had been invited to give a brief talk, revealed that a mammogram machine had been procured which had already arrived in Eleuthera, and was then being readied to be unveiled for service to the public the following week.

This revelation, in light of the years-long program that the Society had of assisting women in Eleuthera to travel to New Providence to get their annual mammogram checkups - meant that the inconvenience and costs of travel would finally be eliminated.

Past CSE president Jacquelyn Gibson,

along with new Administrator for Central Eleuthera, Rochelle Anderson, stood with Dr. Moss as she informed of the new service, with Ms. Gibson expressing her delight and Mrs. Anderson thanking the doctor and her leadership team at Bahamas Wellness for making the new service a reality for Eleuthera women.

CSE administrator, Ms. Thompson, following the announcement, recalled her start with the Society, when she had been signed up to join a group of women traveling to New Providence for mammograms - through CSE, “This is historic... I actually got involved with the Cancer Society when Juanita (past president Mrs. Juanita Pinder) signed me up in 2009.

We went, and that was like an eye opener for me. The Cancer Society, through funding from

Ride for Hope would take women into Nassau to have their mammograms done. I have been involved ever since 2009. During that same trip, my Mom went with me, and she stayed over and that’s when she discovered that she had cancer. She is now 82 years old, healthy and still right here... Early detection saves lives, and the earlier it is caught, the better.”

On this Page: Student volunteers at the CSE Mix n’ Mingle to formally register as volunteers to complete the community service tenet of their graduation requirements. Further Below: A sizeable group of residents came out in response to CSE’s call for community volunteers.

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Police Patrols to Increase with Additions to its Fleet of Vehicles

Above: Eleuthera Officers with Rev. Philip Bethel, at a short prayer session, dedicating three new vehicles to the work of the police.

In an interview during the final week in September 2023, Chief Superintendent of Police and Officer-In-Charge of the Eleuthera Division of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, Jeremy Henfield, confirmed the arrival of new vehicles on the island, increasing the transportation fleet of the division.

About the new arrivals, he explained, “Sometime last week, the Police Commissioner rolled out his plan in terms of bringing new vehicles to New Providence and the Family Islands. Eleuthera received three trucks which came into the island, out of a new fleet of one hundred. We are grateful for those vehicles, as here in Eleuthera we had a transportation shortage.

“So, those three trucks will go a great way. We sent one truck into Rock Sound to cover the southern end - with the Disney project ongoing down there, people should now be able to see the police in those areas. One vehicle is here in Central, and one was sent in the North, covering the international airport, to ensure that we get coverage

there.

Addressing the question of the intended use of the new vehicles, OIC Henfield shared, “The main purpose of these vehicles will be patrolling. You would note that they are trucks, so it tells you they are not for speed. It is not our intention to speed and chase anyone. The main purpose of these vehicles is for patrol. They are outfitted with all of the lights necessary. So, we want the public to see the police in all of these communities. My mandate is that once the patrol leaves the station, there should be some patrol light on... The biggest thing is patrolling.

There has to be police presence within the communities.”

Commenting on the strategy and intention behind the increased patrols, OIC Henfield said, “What we are going to do, as we are approaching the holiday season, is we will change gears. You would have seen us a lot of times during the day. We will now change those times, as people begin to do their little shopping, you will see police more in the evenings once shops close.

Pictured: Eleuthera Division OIC Ch/Supt. Jeremy Henfield (left), stands with visiting colleagues, Assistant Commissioner of Police Craig Stubbs (center), and Chief Superintendent of Police, Anthony Rolle (right).

“Later on we will further advise what people should be doing to safeguard themselves during the holiday time. We have to shift gear, because the criminals are watching us. So, as they shift gear, we have to as well. That is what you will see happening. People will continue to see us with our patrols, keeping the streets quiet.”

Speed was also a major concern on the island’s roads, shared Henfield. “We are now waiting on and should soon be getting two motorcycles coming in. We have one older one now, and are looking forward to increasing that with two. Then we are also looking forward to receiving a speed device (speed gun), as some people use the street as a race track.”

CSE Board and Members (L-R): Sherrin Cooper, Cindy Pinder, Suzette Kemp, Susan Culmer, Sherry Fax, Maisy Thompson, and Jacqueline Gibson.

He continued, “My intentions are to see if we can open a traffic area, where we have officers

on the street, where you can see the motorcycles on the street during the daytime, setting up little checks here and there with the speed gun. People need to remember that the speed limit is still 45 miles per hour (mph).

“There is no need for these big tractor trailers to be doing certain speeds. In fact, the speed limit for tractor trailers should be 30 mph, but we know the island is long, and no one does 30 - it may be hard to do 30 mph if you are pulling a big load. But there has to be some consideration for other road users. We have a lot of curves and a lot of hills in Eleuthera, and so our intention is to see how safe we can keep the roadways for all users. That is very important.”

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MyGateway Help

On this Page: Top - Acting PS Neil Campbell in the Ministry of Family Island Affairs addressing the audience. Left - Unit Head with responsibility for the Family Island Help Desk Administrator Lynton Pinder, shares experiences on the road to the launch. Above - Audience of community members.

resentative, the resident would receive an email notification as soon as approval was completed.

She continued, “Today’s event is a display of the commitment to provide the necessary tools and resources to enhance family island customer experiences. We therefore, are excited to partner with the Ministry of Works and Family Island Affairs and you, the relevant government agencies, and look forward to further collaborations in the future.”

Tammy Smith, with the DTU in brief remarks, explained, “We have launched a total of 90 services online, and as of this morning we have processed some 143,617 transactions, which represent some $3.9 million in collected revenue. It is planned that we will launch an additional 30 services by the end of this year. However, as the demand increases for online service availability, so does the expectation for a greater level of expediency and transparency.

Mr. Lynton Pinder, Department of Local Government Unit Head with responsibility for the Help Desk, based in New Providence, briefly described the path to launching the new initiative, and thanked a number of the ministries and technicians who assisted in the journey, before he introduced the Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Family Island Affairs, Mr. Neil Campbell. Camp-

bell in his remarks, also acknowledged and thanked a number of people and agencies involved in making the launch a reality.

Minister Sweeting, who was credited for the vision and pushing to make sure the Help Desk initiative came to life, commented, “Today, I would like to share with you some of the insights into the profound significance of the Department of Local Government’s Family Island Help Desk, and the pivotal role it plays in our commitment to enhancing the quality of life across our beautiful islands especially in the context of the government’s ongoing initiative to ensure further access to government services through digitization and information... The inception of the Help Desk was guided by

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a singular purpose - to provide comprehensive assistance and answers concerning central government agencies, their engagement with local government and the number of services available throughout our archipelago.

“Whether you find yourself with questions, or seeking guidance, or are in need of assistance - I urge you and those throughout the country to not hesitate to reach out to our dedicated team. They have undergone vigorous training - not only to assist, but also to leverage the power of digitization, information and technology to ensure your concerns are addressed with the utmost efficiency and effectiveness... Family Island residents have long deserved a higher level of service. It is our unwavering commitment to fulfill this need... The purpose of the Family Island Help Desk is clear, to better facilitate access to government services for the Family Islands, leveraging the latest in digitization and technology. Our officers stand ready, and committed to providing information, guidance and tangible assistance whenever required.”

Pictured Above: Beautiful smiles from the officers now serving at the Governor’s Harbour location of the Family Island Help Desk, including; Themica Pinder (left), Adena Johnson (2nd from right), and Crystal Cooper (on right). They stand with Aliyah Thompson (2nd from left), from the Office of the Administrator, Central Eleuthera.

The Bahamas makes history as the first member state from CARICOM to be elected to the ISO Council (The Caribbean Community) to secure a seat on the ISO Council. Dr. Renae Ferguson-Bufford, the Executive Director of the Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality, successfully campaigned for Group 4, representing Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

hance trade, innovation, and sustainability worldwide. Dr. Ferguson-Bufford’s appointment reflects BBSQ and The Bahamas’ commitment to these principles and its determination to drive positive change on a global scale.

The statement continued, “In a closely contested election held at the ISO Annual Meeting in Brisbane Australia, The Bahamas emerged victorious with a decisive vote of 70, the highest number of votes of any candidate from all voting groups. With two seats available and three candidates vying for election in Group 4, Tunisia (INNORPI) secured the second seat with 67 votes. Uganda (UNBS) received 58 votes.

“Dr. Ferguson-Bufford’s vision and plans for her tenure on the council include advocating for international standards that authentically represent the diverse voices and unique challenges faced by all nations, especially Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

“The historic election held on Thursday, 21 September 2023, has added five new member states to the twenty member ISO Council, comprising of representatives from the Republic of Korea (KATS), Saudi Arabia (SASO), Singapore (SSC), The Bahamas (BBSQ), and Tunisia (INNORPI). In addition to this, as ISO commits to promoting more diversity and inclusion within its ranks, these elections have added three additional women to the council.

Dr. Renae Ferguson-Bufford.

The Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality (BBSQ) released a communication on Thursday, September 21st, 2023 confirming the Bahamas’ election to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Council 2024-2026. The release hailed the achievement as, ‘an historic milestone’, as the Bahamas became the first member state from CARICOM

“Speaking about this accomplishment, Dr. Ferguson-Bufford emphasized that it was a collective effort and a testament to the power of inclusivity and diversity. “Our achievement demonstrates that when we unite around shared goals and values, remarkable milestones can be reached. This election was no small feat, and I am humbled to have the opportunity to serve my country and the global community,” she stated.

“The ISO Council plays a critical role in developing international standards that en-

“The Executive Director also expressed her eagerness to collaborate with her esteemed colleagues on the Council and to forge partnerships that will strengthen quality infrastructure, contribute to sustainability goals, and foster a more inclusive and prosperous world. She affirmed her dedication to the ISO mandate and her unwavering belief in the transformative power of international standards.

“The Bahamas’ representation on the ISO Council is not only a significant achievement for the country but also a testament to the dedication of those who have worked tirelessly to promote quality standards worldwide. As The Bahamas takes its place on this esteemed council, it reinforces the nation’s commitment to shaping a future where global standards mirror the aspirations of all nations and enhancing a culture of quality within the country.”

Source: Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality

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