Eleuthera, Harbour Island & Spanish Wells
Harbour Island Spanish Wells Eleuthera
Volume 10, Issue 4, May 2017
www.facebook.com/TheEleutheran
WEBSITE: WWW.ELEUTHERANEWS.COM (1-242) - 422 - 9350
‘‘Eleuthera’s most reliable Source of News and Information. We Deliver!’’ Monthly In Print & Daily on the Web
REAL ESTATE DEALS
BACK COVER: Damianos Sotheby’s International PAGE 3: Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty PAGE 5: HG Christie
Pg 23
Picture This: Local designer’s earth day recycled fashions standout at One Eleuthera’s 2017 Celebration
pg:8
pg: 4
pg: 18
pg: 38 Beautiful, fully furnished , 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom 1,945 sq.ft. home with 1-car garage. in excellent condition, Current Ridge , N. Eleuthera. 200 ft. on a beautiful bay. 1 acre landscaped lot. All utilities. Close to Airport, Bahamas Ferries, shopping, fishing etc. Clear deed and title. $699,000 Ph. 1-242-3351360, 1-242-3597328, eddieminnis0@gmail.com
2
Local
Apr/May 2017
www. EleutheraNews . com
Local
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
| Apr/May 2017 3
4
Local
Apr/May 2017
www. EleutheraNews . com
Family Fun Day hosted at New ALIV Store Locations in Governor’s & Spanish Wells. Following on their grand opening of two new stores in Governor’s Harbour and Spanish Wells on April 1st, 2017, ALIV hosted a family fun day event at both locations, with giveaways, bouncy castle, free lunches for the entire family, as well as mobile phone giveaways to two smart and lucky customers on the day.
After answering a trivia question correctly, Janice Hall and Marco Watson walked away from the Governor’s Harbour store location with a new Alcatel Idol 4, and an iPhone 7, respectively. Mobile customers in Eleuthera can look out for the availability of Mobile Number Porting services on island in early May 2017.
MUST SEE: Beautiful, well maintained 4 bedroom,4 bathroom, 2,556sq. ft. home with 1 car garage on North Beach, Current N. Eleuthera. 90 ft. on beach. Great ocean vistas from this elevated, tastefully landscaped lot. Includes a LP 15KW automatic standby generator and a 1995 Chevy 4 door Blazer(garage kept) with just 52,000 miles. Close to airport, Bahamas Ferries, shopping, fishing etc.
Clear deed and title $675,000 Ph. 1-242-3351360, 1-242-3597328. <eddieminnis0@gmail.com>
Local
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
| Apr/May 2017 5
6
Local
Apr/May 2017
Candidates Formally Nominated to Contest Eleuthera’s 2 Seats in the Upcoming 2017 General Elections
Pictured: Top (L-R) Nominees in Central & South DNA - Derel Smith FNM - Hank Johnson
BY THE ELEUTHERAN NEWS TEAM On the morning of Thursday, November 20th, 2017, candidates in the North Eleuthera, and the Central and South Eleuthera constituencies, putting themselves forth for the upcoming 2017 General Elections were formally nominated to contest those seats on Election Day Wednesday, May 10th, 2017. Three candidates were nominated in North Eleuthera; including Howard Rickey Mackey for the Free National Movement who was the first to be nominated in the North on Thursday morning; Canadace Weatherford for the Democratic National Alliance followed; and Clay Glenford Sweeting for the Progressive Liberal
www. EleutheraNews . com
Party was the final nominee contesting the seat. Voters in the North Eleuthera Constituency will cast their ballots at 12 polling divisions throughout the area. In Central and South Eleuthera three candidates were also nominated to contest the seat; with Hank Stephen Johnson for the Free National Movement the first to arrive at the Administrative offices in Governor’s Harbour. Clifford Wellington ‘Butch’ Scavella for the Progressive Liberal Party followed, as the second nominee
PLP - Clifford Scavella
Bottom (L-R) Nominees In North PLP - Clay Sweeting DNA - Candace Weatherford FNM - Ricky Mackey
Continued On Page 9
Contact The Eleutheran
Services@ TheEleutheran.com
Or
Call
422-9350
National
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
Enrico Garzaroli of Graycliff Receives Lifetime Achievement Award at Gala Cacique Awards; Shaun Ingraham, Chris Brown, Dean Spychalla also Winners NASSAU, The Bahamas – Celebrating “the Business of Tourism,” and recognizing those who have made Bahamas tourism a special experience, the 17th Cacique Awards ceremonies rewarded creativity, initiative and hard work in a black-tie gala at Baha Mar Convention Centre on Saturday. Outstanding members of the industry from various sectors were applauded for their contributions. And, just before the curtains fell, Enrico Garzaroli, owner of the historic and world-renowned Graycliff was presented the Clement T. Maynard Lifetime Achievement Award. A veteran in the industry, Mr. Garzaroli migrated to The Bahamas from Italy in 1972 and transformed historic property on West Hill Street into worldrenowned Graycliff Hotel and five-star restaurant. He later developed Graycliff Cigar Company, Graycliff Chocolatier, and the Heritage Village at Graycliff. Minister of Tourism the Hon. Obie Wilchcombe acknowledged the “wonderful partners who continue to grow the industry.” Hundreds gathered in the convention centre for the much-anticipated premier event on the Ministry of Tourism’s calendar. The industry partners include the Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association, Bahamas Hotel and Restaurants Employers’ Association, and Grand Bahama Island Tourism Board. The Cacique Programme during the night showed Bahamian culture on full display taking the audience back to Sponga Money performed by a group of youngsters clad in colourful Bahamian print shirts; pulsating rhythmic performance of Hurricane Drummers presented by Howard Bethel and the Cacique Drummers; an Island Church Tribute featuring Ministry of Tourism Choir and Cacique Dancers; and Hip Hop Dance performance backed by an infusion of Bahamian music and American Hip Hop by DJ Ampero. There was also an In Memoriam tribute dedicated to those industry providers who died over the past two years. Jonathan Farrington and Karrington McKenzie sang a soul-stirring duet backed by the Cacique Female Dancers. The purpose of the Cacique Awards, initiated in 1995, is to recognize the roles played by those individuals and organizations whose performance or products have consistently made a positive impact on the quality and the growth of tourism in The Bahamas. The first Bahamians, the Lucayans, called their leader ‘Cacique’ and the seat of power is the Duho, which is presented as the award that sits atop the trophies given to the winners. The winners are: • Sustainable Tourism – Shaun Ingraham, founder, One Eleuthera Foundation
•
Handicraft – Roganna Wilchcombe and Vernetta Frith, Proprietors of Strawtacular Designs, West End, Grand Bahama • Travel Writer of the Year (International Category) – Julie Ring-Hansen, Journalist, Denmark • Chef of the Year – Cheryl McKenzie, Executive Sous Chef, British Colonial Hilton • Local Airlines and Tour Operators – Leisure Travel and Tours – ground transportation business over 22 years • International Award: Cruise – Norwegian Cruise Lines – The Bahamas’s longest serving cruise line, uninterrupted service for 50 years • Supervisor of the Year – Jerome Sears, Senior Banquet Captain, British Colonial Hilton • Cecil Rose Sports and Leisure – Olympian Chris Brown for Chris Brown Invitational • International Tour Operator – Karin Bauhaus of Canusa Touristik Gmbh & Co. • Human Resources Development – Evelyn Pinder-Dames, educator at Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Academy who coaches in Tourism studies • Manager of the Year – Monique Taylor, Executive Housekeeper, Comfort Suites • Willie Love Hospitality Award – Wilfred Knowles, Grand Bahama • Creative Arts – Junkanoo Commandos • Cacique Scholarship – University of The Bahamas • Blue Ribbon Panel Award Winner – Phil Stubbs, Song Writer/Story Teller, Grand Bahama • Sales Executive of the Year – Deryn Prabhu, Catering Sales Manager, British Colonial Hilton • Transportation – Milton Strachan, Taxi Driver in Exuma since the 1960s Special Events – Island Roots Heritage • Festival, Green Turtle Cay, Abaco • International Award: Airline of the Year – Bahamasair, established 1973 • Employee of the Year: Front of House — Dicienzo Storr, Bartender at Melia Nassau Beach Resort Employee of the Year: Heart of the House – Kendal Deveaux, Technical Security Engineer, Atlantis Hotelier of the Year – Dean Spychalla – Valentine’s Residences, Resort and Marina, Harbour Island Minister’s Award for Hospitality – Wilfred Solomon, Grand Bahama People’s Choice Secular Music – FanShawn Taylor-Evans, lead vocalist Sky Juice Band By Lindsay Thompson Bahamas Information Services
The Eleutheran | Apr/May 2017
Declaration Notice I, Douglas Cash, of Lower Bogue, Eleuthera, Bahamas, am applying for a permit for my spouse. Phone: 551-1009.
7
8
Local
Apr/May 2017
www. EleutheraNews . com
11th Grader, Tillia Leary, wins Jr. Minister of Tourism for Eleuthera and second place at the national Jr. Minister of Tourism Speech Competition in New Providence 11th Grader, Tillia Leary, takes the win
BY THE ELEUTHERAN NEWS TEAM
as the new Jr. Minister of Tourism for Eleuthera and second place overall at the national Jr. Minister of Tourism Speech Competition in New Providence Tillia Leary of Windermere High School, Eleutheraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winner in the Jr. Minister of Tourism Speech Competition held on Friday, March 24th, 2017, at the Cancer Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wellness Center in Palmetto Point,
went on to take second place in the national Jr. Minister of Tourism Speech Competition in New Providence this month. Fourteen young finalists from islands throughout the Bahamas went head to head in the national event, which took place on Thursday, April 6th, beginning at 9:30 am at Breezes Resort in New Providence. They all presented on the topic; Bahamas Endangered: Promoting Sustainable Development. Along with a trophy and plaque, Tillia was rewarded for her excellent pre-
sentation with $300 in cash, as well as $300 cash for her high school, as well as a laptop and a cell phone, with an Aliv gift bag. The competition in Eleuthera on March 24th, began at 11am, and after the highly competitive fray, Tillia stood stunned as she was named the winner of the 2017 Continued On Page 9
Local
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
Jr. Minister Tourism Winner Eleuthera Continued from pg. 8
title of Jr. Minister of Tourism for the island of Eleuthera. As the announcement was made, the sizeable contingent of her family members and friends in the audience expressed their delight and excitement over her win. She took up the baton from last year’s winner, Christina Moss of Harbour Island All Age School. Tillia was one of a large group of competitors, nine young ladies in total, who battled it out with well researched and prepared speeches on the topic, “Strengthening Cultural Heritage for Tourism Growth.” Coming in a very close second and third, was Jerrimia Seymour of Central Eleuthera High School, and Sierra Colebrook of North Eleuthera High School, respectively. This year’s Jr. Minister of Tourism Speech Competition in Eleuthera, saw nine participating competitors including; Tillia Leary of Windermere High School (Winner - 439 points);
Jerrimia Seymour of Central Eleuthera High School (Second Place - 432 points); Sierra Colebrook of North Eleuthera High School (Third Place - 431 points); Sibyl Bennett of Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School; Chianti Allen of Harbour Island All Age School; Torkell Saunders of Harbour Island All Age School; Junette Deveaux of North Eleuthera High School; Crystal Wilson of Central Eleuthera High School; and Christina Adderley of Preston Albury High School. Mrs. Deborah Young-Fox with the Ministry of Tourism team in Governor’s Harbour, was key organizer of the event, and was supported by her colleagues; Ms. Jacquelyn Gibson, Tourism Manager based in Governor’s Harbour; Ms. Glenda Johnson; Mrs. Donnalee Miller, Ms. Kay Bethel; and Mrs. June Dean, Tourism Manager based in Harbour Island.
The Eleutheran | Apr/May 2017
9
Picture This. @ Government House
Students and teachers of North Eleuthera Senior High School paid a courtesy call upon Her Excellency the Governor-General Dame Marguerite Pindling at Government House on Tuesday, April 11, 2017.
Students and teachers of Samuel G. Pinder All Age School, Eleuthera, paid a courtesy call upon Her Excellency the Governor-General Dame Marguerite Pindling at Government House on Tuesday, April 11, 2017.
General Election Continued from pg. 6 on the morning, and Derek John Smith for the Democratic National Alliance was nominated shortly before close off, to complete the roster of candidates running in Central and South Eleuthera on May 10th. Voters will cast their ballots at 15 various polling divisions between Deep Creek and Hatchet Bay. Eleuthera was one of the islands affected by changes in the boundaries prior to the 2017 General Elections which re-
moved the townships of Hatchet Bay and James’ Cistern from the North Eleuthera constituency, and placed them within the Central and South Eleuthera constituency. As of April 17th, the North Eleuthera constituency was reported as having 3,077 registered voters. The Central and South Eleuthera constituency total of registered voters was reported as being 3,533. The total number of registered voters within the Eleuthera District was 6,610.
Students and teachers of Laura L. Anderson Primary School (formerly North Eleuthera Primary School) paid a courtesy call upon Her Excellency the Governor-General Dame Marguerite Pindling at Government House on Tuesday, April 11, 2017.
10
Local
Apr/May 2017
www. EleutheraNews . com
Eleuthera… All That Jazz 2017 –
attracts and entertains BY THE ELEUTHERAN NEWS TEAM The 5th annual Eleuthera… All That Jazz 2017 overtook Governor’s Harbour on the weekend of Wednesday, March 29th to Sunday, April 2nd, with a series of events that brought the soothing and swinging music of this year’s performers to beach fronts, fish fry, ocean fronts, historic churches and the signature Saturday evening concert under the pavilion of the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve on the Banks Road. Capacity audiences were treated to fantastic performances, tapped off by renown headliner, Myra Maud with captivating mood, melody and spirit. The incredibly talented lineup included a number of Bahamian artists, including: vocalists, Anuschka Wright,
Osana Neely and Eleutheran Brendalee Petty, as well as musicians; Kevin Dean, Tino Richardson, Lamont Gibson, and Adrian d’Aguilar and The Jazz Cats. International artists, included; Italian saxophonist, Tommaso Starace; composer, arranger, and pianist, Massimo Colombo, also of Italy; The Steve Koven trio, with artists, Steve Koven, Rob Clutton, and Anthony Michelli; along with Johnny Schutten, who also serves as the musical director for the Eleuthera… All That Jazz festival. Myra and other performers also took time out on Saturday morning, during the education segment of the Jazz festival weekend, to meet with a myriad of young
Eleutherans, from mainly the north and center of the island, introducing them to their favorite instruments as well as vocals and giving time for questions and interaction, bringing music to their ears and smiles to their faces. Founded and Chaired by Patricia Oakes LeighWood, direct proceeds from this event supports the Haynes Library, while the wider impact supports others throughout the community. Some of the sponsors included: The Levy Preserve, Bob Colman, Ferri Lighting Design & Associates, Aliv, Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty, HG Christie, Holowesko Pyfrom Fletcher, and BTC.
http://eleutheranews.com/?p=10266 Color Photos & Videos
Congratulations !
Congratulations to V’Anntae Johnson for achieving the Honor Roll award at the Central Eleuthera High School for the Christmas Term 2016! From your very proud parents, including your Mom, Vandra Rolle and other family members. We love you!
Local
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
The Eleutheran | Apr/May 2017
11
$200k Recreation Court Investment for South Eleuthera - Resident and Investor William “Doug” Douglass looks to trigger
opportunities for the South Eleuthera community. ELEUTHERA, Bahamas — A near $200,000 investment in a basketball/volleyball court and rock climbing facility at the Wemyss Bight Primary School by the grandson of the founder of Pan American Airways is set to create new opportunities for the South Eleuthera community. Construction on the new Wemyss Bight Primary School Recreational Court has been ongoing for the past three months, led and financed by William “Doug” Douglass – who in 1994 co-founded investment firm K2 Advisors, now part of Franklin Templeton Advisors (FT). Mr. Douglass has been coming to Eleuthera since 1962 and is the grandson of Pan Am Air founder and South Eleuthera resident Juan Trippe who died in 1981. “This island and this community in particular meant a lot to my grand parents,” said Mr. Douglass. “They envisioned that South Eleuthera was going to be the next big spot for the world and they
had the confidence not only in the island’s beautiful sea and land but more importantly its Bahamian people. “Since Mr. and
Mrs. Trippe’s passing the economic activity of South Eleuthera has deteriorated. So today I’m happy to see the recent movement of bulldozers and work in The Original Cotton Bay. In addition, the recent
announcement of The Jack’s Bay development is great to hear. I know that there is a lot left to be done on the charity for the Continued On Page 17
Sunday, May 14th - MOTHER’S DAY Friday, June 2nd - Randol Fawkes Labour Day Monday, June 5th - Whit Monday
highlights in MAY/June PINEAPPLE FESTIVAL Held on the Labour Day Weekend Eleuthera’s Pineapple themed events, held on the Labour Day weekend are hot ones on the calendar. They take place in Gregory Town and attract locals and visitors alike.
under 100-days to the start of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Bahamas 2017, members of the Local Organizing Committee said the new stadium will be ready to host thousands of local and international spectators. April 27 to May 7
foot of the Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge New Providence.
PALMETTO POINT HOMECOMING Palmetto
Founder of the Catch Jerry Chile race, Miska Clarke, is this year throwing out a challenge to all business owners or a worker designate who enters the race and beats him to the finish. If
beaten, Mr. Clarke pledges to donate an additional $200 to this year’s Catch Jerry Chile cause or to the charity of their choice. Up to five people are encouraged to enter this special challenge segment of the race. Contact: JC Discount Superstores at 335-6049 For more information.
general ELECTION DAY May 10th, 2017 11th Annual Tim’s Refrigeration Doubles Tennis Tournament Location: Knowles Court, Palmetto Point Time: Begins at 9am Date: TBA Event POSTPONED until after General Elections
More School Events: Bahamas National Diploma Graduation Ceremony (Eleuthera District): June 13th Methodist Church, James’ Cistern:
Point holds its Homecoming in the week/weekend ending on Whit Monday. If 2016 was any indication, 2017 should be fabulous.
Catch Jerry Chile BUSINESS CHALLENGE
National Events:
Catch Jerry Chile FUN RUN WALK Sat., May 6th, 2017 Venue: Staged from the Cork Tree in James’ Cistern This local fundraiser, has funded the purchase of various vital medical and emergency equipment in Central Eleuthera, from portable defibrillators to portable jaws of life equipment, donated to clinics and the Police Force.
School Events:
National Examinations: BGCSE Examinations Dates Practical Examinations Begin Thursday, 23rd March Practical Examinations End Friday, 5th May Theory Examinations Begin Monday, 8th May Theory’ Examinations End Tuesday, 6th June
Friday, June 16th School closes (students)
BJC Examinations Dates Practical Examinations Begin Tuesday, 25th April Practical Examinations End Friday, 26th May Theory Examinations Begin Monday, 29th May Theory Examinations End Thursday, 8th June
Thursday, June 22nd National Report Card Day
GLAT Grades 3 & 6 Monday, 8th May to Friday, 12th May
Friday, June 23rd School closes (teachers)
12
F EATUR E
Apr/May 2017
www. EleutheraNews . com
An Eleutheran Profile:
Dorothy Aluria Thompson By elizabeth bryan
Introduction: Mrs. Dorothy Aluria Thompson, at the age of 65, after giving 49 years of service in the teaching profession, will formally retire once the last bell has rung at the Governor’s Harbour Primary School in June of 2017. During her nearly five decades as a teacher, Mrs. Thompson worked with seventeen (17) principals, and taught from K4 to grade 8, and all grades in between. Celebration: On Monday, April 10th at 9:30am, students, teachers and administration at the Governor’s Harbour Primary school, where she taught for the past seventeen years, celebrated her in grand style, with a retirement ceremony themed: “A Sweet Finale to a Timeless Career”. Colleagues from around the island, family members and friends, were all out in support of Mrs. Thompson’s significant milestone. One of the many tributes given came from Mr. Francis Carey, a leader in the Assemblies of Brethren church, where Mrs. Thompson and her husband, Garth have worshipped for many years, expressing congratulations to her on behalf of her church family. Different grades performed songs and skits in recognition of her contribution to the school, and the love felt on both sides, from Mrs. Thompson to the students, and their return of that committed affection one hundredfold. A poem presentation by a bevy of well-spoken young female students, highlighted her as a “Phenomenal Woman”. One of her children, the youngest son, Andre, also a former student, delivered a tribute to his mother, homing in on her patience, dedication, the impact she had on her students and her very special qualities as a teacher - which included passion and energy. Another Ms. Thompson, a teacher at the Harbour Island All Age School, representing the Teacher’s Union, also remarked on her outstanding career. The morning ceremony climaxed as 49 students lined up, one for each year of her service in education, each armed with a lovely gift to present to the overwhelmed Mrs. Thompson. Mrs. Tanya McPhee-Pinder, the final principal to work with Mrs. Aluria Thompson, said of her, “She is here first, never late, never absent… At 65 is just as vibrant as my younger teachers. She comes up with the ideas and executes - anything that she needs to
do in her teaching job. She is also the one who asks if you need any help with this or that. I always go to her, because of her experience, to bounce my ideas. She is going to be a great loss. They do not make teachers like her anymore!” Following the heartfelt ceremony, a delicious spread had been prepared for her to celebrate with her colleagues, friends and family at the school. In a short interview at that time, when asked what she was going to do after the school year was finished, Mrs. Thompson shared that she was very much looking forward to spending quality time with her husband and family, with leisurely cruise travel planned for the near future. She also spoke of her desire to offer specialty baked goods on demand later on, harking back to a simpler time during her younger past, when she had learned the secrets of many delicious recipes by her Mom’s side on her beautiful Crooked Island childhood home. A few weeks after her retirement ceremony, Mrs. Thompson took some time out to sit and chat with The
Eleutheran about her life and times the idyll of younger days in far flung Crooked Island, and the events leading up to her eventual move to the island of freedom, where she raised her family, and helped to raise and impact multiple generations of children. Early Days: Dorothy Aluria was born on April 3rd, in 1952 to her parents, Arnold and Estella Hanna in Colonel Hill, Crooked Island. She was number two of four children, with an older sister, and two
younger brothers that followed. After spending so many years in the classroom, Mrs. Thompson smiled as she shared her earliest memory of school. During the
mid-1950’s, when she was a wee four year old, young Aluria went to school earlier than five years old. She said she remembered that she was allowed to sit in what was called class 1, back at that time. “At four you were able to go, and you just weren’t on the register. I remember when they first came up with the rule that you had to be five.” Thinking about her early childhood experiences, while growing up on Crooked Island, Al-
uria shared that people were closer back then… grandparents, neighbours. “If you were doing something wrong and an elderly person passed by, you would stop right away. I also remember a lot of sharing, especially during Christmas time. We would bake and send from house to house, and something would come back around to you from another neighbour. Also with fishing, they didn’t sell fish, they shared it around, and especially with those who had less - there was no selling. My Mom shared watermelons from her farm, and sometimes gave all away - by the time she would get home they would all be gone. When strangers came on the island, like nurses, and teachers - people were going to share with them - the community had high regard for teachers and other officials that came to serve on the island.” Reaching back into long ago memories, Mrs. Thompson spoke of having to draw water from the public well during her early years, using the bucket with the rope. At home was a wooden barrel that she would have to fill up with that water for the family to use. “There were no washing machines, so we had the tin tub and scrub board. People also took pride in their yards and raked them every weekend. Every Saturday, people would be singing in their yards as they raked,” smiled Mrs. Thompson with admiration Continued On Page 13
F EATURE
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
An Eleutheran Profile Continued from pg. 12
in her voice. Church was also a big part of life, she explained, “Our church (St. Johns’ Baptist), we went three times on Sunday - morning Sunday school, 11am worship and 2pm Sunday school for everyone (adult and children’s class). School Days: “I started school at age four,” shared Mrs. Thompson, adding, “At that time we started with class 1,2,3, then grade 1 - which was equivalent to grade 4, and you stopped in grade 6. In 1966, Principal Admiral Ferguson came back to Crooked Island, and he began the first secondary school in the family islands. It was in secondary school, where we were introduced to the BJC examination’s.” She said there were six primary (all age) schools on Crooked Island at that time, which were feeder schools for the secondary school that Admiral Ferguson pilot trialed on the island, “Starting from scratch”, she described. It began, with year 1, year 2 and year 3, said Mrs. Thompson, with children coming from the primary schools placed in year 1, then year two, and all others during that first year, no matter what age you were, placed in year 3. Principal Ferguson, she said would give mock BJC exams during November, and however many a student passed, they would be able to sit those national exams. In her year, Mrs. Thompson shared that she sat and passed seven of the national BJC examinations. Early Career: Back in the day, no time was wasted in choosing one’s path in life. Mrs. Thompson shared that she wanted to become a secretary like her older sister, but it was not to be. The custom at the time was for an older reputable person within the community to write letters of recommendation for available career situations, and a Mr. Farquharson offered to do so for young Dorothy Aluria, for a teaching position, shortly after passing her national exams. She initially turned him down, with her heart set on following in her sister’s footsteps. However, her Mom, who thought such an opportunity right at home was a wonderful thing, encouraged her to take up the opportunity, and she followed her mother’s advice. Mrs. Thompson recalled starting out in 1968 at the age of 16, as an untrained teacher at the Colonel Hill Primary School, where she earned $218 per month. She taught as an untrained teacher in Crooked Island from 1968 - 1970, before moving to New Providence to study at the Bahamas Teacher’s College for two years, from 1970 to 1972. After earning her teaching certification, she taught in New Providence at Mabel Walker Primary until 1974, before returning to Crooked Island. The next two years were spent at home, teaching at the Colonel Hill High School. Family Life and Later Career: In 1975, Garth Thompson traveled to Crooked Island as part of the construction crew with Austin Knowles Construction, tasked with adding a number of classrooms to the Colonel Hill High School. “We started talking in March of 1976,” shared Mrs. Thompson, with a smile in her voice, and the rest is history. The couple were married at the Assemblies of Brethren, East Street Gospel Chapel in New Providence in December of 1976, and a new era of Dorothy Aluria’s life began. Moving to Eleuthera was beautiful, but also in some ways surprising for her, shared Mrs. Thompson. A bit of a culture shock. Aside from technological differences like Eleuthera having electricity, television and the like, while Crooked Island at that time still lay comparatively undeveloped (recalling the need to study by lamp after sundown, because of having no electric lights) she found Eleuthera very different socially to people back home. “In Crooked Island, people really cherished and respected family - recognizing a cousin no matter how distant the link, and surprisingly in Eleuthera then, I had to get used to people not speaking to you if they didn’t know you - that would have been a crime at home!” However, as time moved on, Mrs. Thompson said, as a teacher, she got to know many people throughout the island. She joined the Emma Cooper Primary School teaching staff in January of 1977 and went on to teach there for the next 23 and a half years - garnering experience in every grade from K4 to grade 8 while there. The couple were blessed during that time with three children - two boys and one girl - Michael the eldest, followed by Gardina and Andre. In 2000, Mrs. Thompson said she was sent to teach at the Governor’s Harbour Primary School, where they were in need of a K4 teacher. “When I was told I was going to GoverContinued On Page 14 nor’s Harbour Primary,
The Eleutheran | Apr/May 2017
13
14
Local
Apr/May 2017
www. EleutheraNews . com
New Park & Playground Opened Near Gregory Town’s Commonage Community By the eleutheran news team The community of Gregory Town celebrated the opening of their brand new children’s park and playground at the entrance of the commonage land area, at the corner of Queen’s Highway and Commonage Road during a brief ceremony held at the new park at 6pm on Wednesday, April 5th, 2017. The new playground is the result of a collaboration between the community and Methodist Habitat. Spearheading the community efforts was Angela Cartwright, who lives just a short distance away on the Commonage Road. A fun combination of swings, climbing ladders, walking bridge and slides, now mark the children’s play area. Safety fencing had also been brought in (for which duty had been waived), and was on the dock in Hatchet Bay, at the time of the ceremony, to complete the current updates to the property. Donors and volunteers were also on hand for the opening. Ongoing cake sales and car washes are planned by community members to facilitate the future building of a basketball court near the playground. Other community efforts also continue, as a Gregory Town community member reported that the town’s public library, situated in the original school house building (damaged by successive hurricanes Irene and Sandy), now has shelving installed, as well as a tabled seating area for children to sit and study or do their homework. Photos and Information submitted by Godfrey Kelly.
An Eleutheran Profile Continued from pg. 13 I didn’t want to go, because my dad who was with me, wasn’t feeling well,” recalled Mrs. Thompson. “I also didn’t have a whole lot of experience teaching K4 at that time, but Mrs. Crean told me she would help. I got materials, did workshops and got materials online.” Mrs. Thompson also remembered having initial reservations about taking on that early level student, knowing that they were clingy, and the need to fill a motherly role at that stage. “To me, I have a lot of patience, and I was able to function from the start. I grew to love teaching K4 and later said to myself - ‘when you move from K4 you are going home’. It’s such a joy, to see the bells going off in their heads, that moment when they get it with sounds and letters, such a joy,” she smiled. As of June 2017, Mrs. Thompson would have spent 17 years at the Governor’s Harbour Primary School. Community Life: In addition to her service in education all these years, Mrs. Thompson has dedicated much of her time to church activities as a member of the Assemblies of Brethren, Palmetto Point Gospel Chapel. She taught Sunday School for many years, and shared that she enjoyed taking part in the planning of all of the cooking events at the church as well. Prefer-
ring to work behind the scenes, unlike her husband Garth, who still serves as the Pastor at the Palmetto Point Gospel Chapel, Mrs. Thompson initiated a sharing ministry at the church, where she and a number of other ladies prepare meals for about 40 people during the last Saturday of each month, and deliver them to those most in need, including the shut ins and the elderly. She is also the President of the United Sisters for the Assemblies of Brethren in Eleuthera. A Word: When asked what advice she would have for teachers today and going forward, Mrs. Thompson, shared, “To other teachers, I would say to put God first in your lives, and when you come up against challenges you will have someone to lean on. When I’ve dealt with any difficulty I would pray and that helped me to carry on and be successful.” Mrs. Thompson also commented that it’s very important to be teachers with ‘stickability’. “Don’t get easily discouraged, take the good days, - when you have a difficult class, parents, principal, district superintendent - let them inspire you to hold on. Don’t give up, be determined and have patience.”
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
| Apr/May 2017 15
16 | Apr/May 2017
Understanding the importance of stingrays in Eleuthera cONSERVATION CORNER BY CEI Stingrays are flat-bodied fishes that make up a very conspicuous and abundant group in the shallow, nearshore waters of Eleuthera and the other islands of The Bahamas. They are made entirely of cartilage, like a human ear not bone and essentially evolved from their ancestral cousins, the sharks. Their flattened body shape allows them to live close to the sea floor and muscular openings behind their eyes, (called spiracles), allow them to breathe whilst resting on the sediment and without swimming. Stingrays are called such, on account of a venomous stinging barb located on their tails, and although not all species have them, rays common to The Bahamas can have between one and five. This barb protrudes from a long tail, which they use for protection against predators, such as sharks, barracuda or dolphins. These barbs are highly brittle and are
C O N S E RVAT I O N C O R N E R
made from a type of cartilage called vasodentin, and once used by the ray, will break away from their tail, lodging in their adversary, but soon re-growing. Stingrays will always try and avoid people that are wading and swimming in the shallows, and tend to be very shy, often swimming away from fishermen when disturbed. The crystal clear, sand lagoons and shallow waters of The Bahamas are an ideal habitat for stingrays as they bury themselves in soft sediment areas near to reefs. The coastlines of these limestone islands, lined with sandy beaches and mangrove creeks are an important refuge, nursery and foraging site for rays. There are three species of stingray known from Eleuthera: the yellow stingray, the southern stingray and the Atlantic chupare stingray. The chupare ray â&#x20AC;&#x201C; also known as the Caribbean whiptail stingray - has only recently been officially recognised as an inhabitant of Bahamian waters, and yet nothing is known
of its biology, reproductive habits, feeding preferences, habitat preferences or how old or even how big they get. The yellow stingray is the smallest of these local inhabitants and has been found to have a maximum width of about 36 cm (just over one foot). However, southern and chupare rays can grow to be almost 200 cm wide (almost 7 feet), with the chupare ray thought to outgrow the southern ray. Stingrays are considered a very important group of fish in The Bahamas because they are responsible for regulating invertebrate communities, such as worms and shrimps that live buried beneath the sediment. As they excavate pits in the sea floor to access these food sources, they create large sediment plumes, which can affect the clarity of the water, but also they are making a living space for a whole range of other animals. It is this physical manipulation of the environment, which makes them very important
for the health of coastal environments. While it has never been addressed before, the concept of removing stingrays from the environment may cause irreversible declines in the overall health of these sensitive marine habitats. This is particularly relevant in The Bahamas due to coastal development as tourism becomes increasingly more relevant as the major source of industry in this country and a major driver for the economy of The Bahamas Islands. Understanding the structure of stingray populations now, is critical to safeguard the health of fragile marine environments for tomorrow. Much of the work being conducted on stingrays at the Cape Eleuthera Institute is assessing the role of these populations in the environment, so we can better understand how to manage and protect coastal, nearshore and mangrove creek habitats and the affect that increasing human interactions are having on this most charismatic of fish.
Local
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
Trippe Family Gift Continued from pg. 11 lovely people of Eleuthera and that is where I am stepping in.” Mr. Douglass and local contractor Carey’s Construction mobilized near-
Above:
ly one-dozen workers from throughout the island to construct the 92” x 50” cushioned court and 9 ft. high rock climbing wall. The recreational court will serve as a hub for community games and has already been tapped as an ideal location for an upcoming competition involving athletes from neighboring countries. These are the kind of opportunities that Natasha Bethel-Sands, principal of the Wemyss Bight Primary School, is looking to see become more readily available to her students and other children in the surrounding settlements. “We had one old swing that didn’t have any seats and one basketball rim for the community that kept on breaking,” she said. “It was not ideal, so this world class facility is a tremendous asset for the school and for the entire area, because Wemyss Bight encompasses so much of South Eleuthera. “This gives us the proper exposure right here in Wemyss Bight and this court can touch so many people because we are central. Chris Brown came from here and who knows? The next big athlete could come right from here because of this.” The state-of-the-art recreational court was completed in early April and dedicated on Thursday, April 13th,
2017 in memory of Juan and Betty Trippe. In the Photos: The new facility is shown. Also pictured are members of the Trippe Family and the Ribbon Cutting opening the site. Those pictured at the ribbon include Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, Hon. Daniel Johnson, Ed Trippe, Olympian Chis Brown, William Douglass with the scissors, Principal Natasha Sands and Contractor Mr. Carey.
| Apr/May 2017 17
18
Education Beat
Apr/May 2017
Emma E. Cooper Primary School Literacy Week blooms with Colorful Parades and Project Exhibits
and Cameron Moss, showed off their work, which included presentations on several fables and a modern fairytale. Students shared what they liked about the stories they chose. Cameron, who presented on the Shrek fairytale story, liked the humor throughout the story, and Carleahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fable about a monkey and a dolphin, was not a well-known piece, so she liked the idea of presenting something different. Deonecia, liked the overall moral of always being prepared in her chosen fable about the ant and the grasshopper, and Brady, who chose the fable about the crow and the pitcher also liked the lesson of never giving up. The children expressed how much they had learned and enjoyed during the literacy week activities, especially the surprise Easter egg hunt!
By the eleutheran news team Ahead of the Easter Holiday Weekend, the Emma Cooper Primary School hosted Literacy Week activities, beginning on Monday, April 10th to Wednesday, April 12th, which included an all grade levels project exhibition from K4 to sixth grade, showing off themed 3D models and written presentations on fables, myths, legends, fairy tales, or super heroes - in addition to a literacy themed assembly and reading parade on Monday, a story hour and reading using technology session on Tuesday, and a wrap up of activities on Wednesday with a colorful story character parade, a book fair, as well as outdoor and indoor games and activities. An inspired group of 6th graders, on Wednesday, including, Brady Sineus, Deonecia Taylor, Carleah Culmer,
www. EleutheraNews . com
Local
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
| Apr/May 2017 19
Picture This: All Excited to Inspire Reading among youth
The green space at the rear of the Office General store location in Governor’s Harbour was transformed for its 2nd Annual Book Fair, themed: Celebrate the Joy of Reading, on Friday, March 24th, 2017, with tented areas designated for the sale of quality low cost books and reading materials, story
time live readings, as well as face painting. The Book Fair was held in partnership with Pearson, and inspired by the Rotary Club of Eleuthera’s Literacy Initiative. The event which ran from 10am until 2pm was fully supported by the Ministry of Education with teachers, students and administrators from
Congratulations !
CONGRATULATIONS to Brady Sineus for being the Top Male primary school student for the island of Eleuthera, 2017! Also for placing second in the 2017 Eleuthera District Spelling Bee Competition! From your parents, Elline and Nicky Sineus, and your sister Breona Sineus. We love you and we are so proud of you!
a number of primary schools from across the island, including District Superintendent of Education for Eleuthera, Mrs. Helen Simmons-Johnson, attending the one day event. Excited students from Samuel Guy Pinder All Age, and Harbour Island All Age in the north, Gregory Town Primary, James’ Cistern Primary, and Emma Cooper Primary in central, and from Wemyss Bight Primary in south Eleuthera, enjoyed the books and special activities. An essay and poster competition was also held in the weeks prior to the Fair. Winners in the essay competion receiving trophies and gift bags were: Mahalia Lockhart of Laura Anderson Primary in first, Michaella Lockhart of Laura Anderson Primary in second, and Nash Pinder of Samuel Guy Pinder All Age in third. The one entrant in the poster competition, Surdania Sands of Gregory Town Primary received a prize as well for her entry.
North Eleuthera Shopping Center The Bluff, Eleuthera, Tel: (242) - 335-1880; Vibe: 225-0964; Email: neshoppingctr@yahoo.com
Opening Hours: Mon – Thurs 8am to 8pm; Fri & Sat 8am to 9pm; Sundays 8am to 10am
Happy Mother’s Day to all our caring moms across The Eleutheras
Mother’s Day Sale May 1st - May 14th
50% OFF
50% OFF
• • • •
For the Manager’s Special, Ask for Us! Sophie and Burchie Selected Fragrances!!
Selected Rugs Curtains Bath Rug Sets Shower Curtain Sets
• Comforters
Make Your Own Gift Basket!! Wicker Baskets Cellophane Wrap Decorative Beauty Grass Teddy Bears Pull-string Bows
30% OFF
30% OFF Area Rugs GIFT SETS now in stock!! FRUIT BASKETS Starting at $25 -
Order by Saturday,May 13th - 1:00pm
Flat Irons and Curling Irons!!
Give Mom A Phone!!
Discounts on Cell Phones and Phone Cases
Xtra Detergent (1.36 gal)
$
Clorox Bleach (121 oz) - $5.99
Nestle Water (40- 1/2 liter) - $12.99
8
Libby’s Vienna Sausage (1 case - 18 ct)
99
Original Dish Liquid and Palmolive Classic - Gentle & Caring
APPLIANCES !!! (LARGE AND SMALL) NOW IN STOCK:
$12.99 Palmolive
Treat Mom With
$
1
69
$
7
99
$8.99 Playtex Gentle Glide 360
Casa Natura
Toilet Tissue
LARGE
: Stoves, Refrigerators (4 cubic ft. to 26 cubic ft.), Washers, Dryers, Dishwashers, and Chest Freezers
SMALL:
Microwaves, Deep Fryers, Toasters, Hot/Cold Water Dispensers, and more…
Mother’s Day
Pork Chop Ends (5 lbs) - $9.99, Turkey Wings (5 lbs) - $6.99, Whole Chicken - $1.79 per lb, Turkey Drumsticks (5 lbs) - $7.99,
Pork Chop Ends
Turkey Wings $
6
Special Meats in stock for Mom:
$
99
9
50
Whole Turkeys Smoked Picnic Hams Spiral Hams
5 lb Turkey Wings - $6.99 5 lb Spear Ribs - $14.99 5 lb Pork Ends - $9.99
5lb 5lb
Lamb Legs Sirloin Steak T-Bone Steak Short Beef Ribs Cornish Hens Roast
Nissin Cup Noodles (12 pk)
Hunts Ketchup (24 oz)
$7.51
$1.69
New Arrivals (20 lbs) -
$11.99
Ladies & Men’s Socks Riceland long grain rice
Flame Keeper 5 Hr. Tiki Torch
Ladies Underwear
$
0
99
$
12
99 each
Splendor Floor Cleaner Scarves
(128 oz)
Hats
$
7
99
GLAD Wavetop Tie Medium Bags (7 Gallon - 72 count)
$
5
00
2 for
$
Bumble Bee Tuna (5 oz - in water or in oil)
10
99 Red & White
Evaporated Milk
Heavy Kitchen - Garbage Bags (50 count)
$
5
00
Top Ramen Noodles (24 pk)
4
99 each
Select Jumbo Paper Towels
(100 2-Ply Sheets)
$0.99
$7.51
2 for $1.59
Old Spice Men’s Body Spray
$
Jordache Men’s Body Spray
Chef Boyardee
Spaghetti & Meatballs (15 oz)
$
1
69
22
Local
Apr/May 2017
www. EleutheraNews . com
Picture This:
Coach Celebrates Strong Showing of Eleuthera Youngster at Junior Tennis Tournament in New Providence Young, Rickai Symonette of Emma E. Cooper primary school (left) is shown with his coach, Artie Johnson (center) at the RBC FINCO Junior Tennis Tournament, held on April 14th - 17th at the Gymn Tennis Club, in Winton Meadows, New Providence. Coach Johnson commented on Rickai’s performance, saying, “He did very well, only losing his final match of the round robin in a 3 sets tie breaker. Rickai left everyone at the tournament singing his praises about his steady service game - and this after having played for just six months!” Shown on the right, with Symonette and Johnson, is a young player from Nassau, Patrick Ronveaux.
Promising Eleutheran - Athlete on Team Bahamas Shines Silver at 2017 CARIFTA Games in Curacao By the eleutheran news team
Of the 65 athletes ratified by the Bahamas Association of Athletics Associations (BAAA) to compete for Team Bahamas, at the 2017 Flow CARIFTA Games held on April 15th - 17th in Willemstad, Curacao, one young Eleutheran, Sean Rolle from Preston H. Albury High School, also a member of the Golden Compass Track and Field Club in South Eleuthera, made it through in grand style in the under 18 javelin. He went on to make Eleuthera, and the Bahamas extremely proud, garnering a silver medal in his stellar
debut international performance with a throw of 65.51 meters. Twenty Six (26) countries and territories in the region fielded more than 600 athletes at the multi-purpose Ergilio Hato Stadium in the capital city of the Dutch Island for the traditional Easter weekend championships – a meet considered the breeding ground for many world-class athletes from the region. In 2013 Denzel Pratt, another Golden Compass member, became the first javelin thrower from Eleuthera to make the Bahamas CARIFTA team with a
throw of 58.23 meters. Denzel also won the bronze medal for the Bahamas at the 2013 CARIFTA games as well as the silver medal at the 2014 CARIFTA games. The 2017 games, which began at 9:00 am on Saturday, April 15th, wrapped up with their closing ceremony at 7:15 pm on Easter Monday, April 17th. Golden Compass Head coach Miss Jamie Williams commented ahead of the 2017 games, saying, “After Pratt’s accomplishment, our young athletes began to realize that they have what it takes to compete. Sean Rolle, three years later, decided that he would also make his mark in javelin with a throw of 58.68 meters at the High School Nationals, breaking his old teammate’s record and winning the event. He didn’t stop there. At the CARIFTA Trials held at the end of March 2017, Sean Rolle captured the hearts of the audience by breaking his personal best and setting a new record for the under 18 boys division with a throw of 61.42 meters.” Sean’s under 18 javelin event took place on Sunday, April 16th, 2017 during session 4 at 4:05 pm. Along with his proud Mom, Ishka Rolle, Eleutherans everywhere were pulling for young Sean, as the solo athlete to represent the island on the Bahamas team in Curaçao. Participating Countries & Territories: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, The Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Bonaire, Cayman Islands, Curacao, Dominica, French Guiana, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Sint Maarten, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, and the United States Virgin Islands.
Local
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
| Apr/May 2017 23
Commissioner aiming to see Girl Extraordinary Guides grow once again on island. Recycled Fashions At 2017 Earth Day Fest Verda ‘Empress’ Gardiner, seamstress extraordinaire, of Governor’s Harbour, outdid herself during the Fashion Show segment at One Eleuthera’s 5th Annual Earth Day Fest, held on Saturday, April 22nd, 2017, under the theme: ‘Environmental and Climate Literacy’. Dresses and outfits made of recycled plastic and a variety of other materials were made to look like they belonged on any runway during any Fashion Week event worldwide. Contact Verda by email at jahvet016@yahoo. com, at Empress Alterations & Designs, located on Cupid’s Cay. She offers dressmaking, tailoring services as well as alterations and repairs.
Girl Guides Association District Commissioner for Eleuthera, Mrs. Audrey Culmer, addressed a full house audience of parents, family members and friends of the South Eleuthera units of Brownies and Sunflowers during an Enrollment ceremony hosted at the Eleuthera Arts and Cultural Center on Friday, March 31st, 2017. Four units of Brownies and Sunflowers are now active on the island, according to Commissioner Culmer. She commented that at one time the program was much larger with units in North, Central and South Eleuthera. “We would love to see it grow, all across Eleuthera, and
Above:Brownies Right: Sunflowers Newly installed members of both groups stand all smiles and bursting with energy following their enrollment ceremony at the Eleuthera Arts & Cultural Center in Tarpum Bay at the end of March.
both teachers and parents are welcomed,” said Commissioner Culmer, with a new leader’s training session being planned. Current leaders include, Beryl Carey, Keisha McPhee, and Commissioner Audrey Culmer in Tarpum Bay; Natasha Sands, Gardesha Hall, and Gigi Morley in Rock Sound; and Mrs. Hall and Mrs. Dorsette in Green Castle. Eleven (11) new Brownies, and eight (8) new Sunflowers were enrolled during the event. The age level of the Sunflowers unit are 5 and 6 year olds, while Brownies are aged 7 to 11 or 12 (up to grade six).
Local “Plus” EleutheraNews Eleuthera Student adjudged TOP female nationally with 24
Apr/May 2017
www.
. com
Valedictorian Award at Alpha Kappa Alpha Honours Day at Government House By the eleutheran news team
Eleuthera’s six top female students from (L-R) CEHS, PHAHS, NEHS. WHS, SGPAAS and HIAAS - Saiydah Bryan, Marrissica Louis, Genanta Laguerre, Clishae Sands, Erin Mullin, Lachante, Johnson. Below (first picture) 43 of the Top female 12 graders in the Bahamas. (Second Picture) Top students with AKA organisers and members
Forty three (43) of the top female 12th grade students from both private and public high schools throughout the Bahamas gathered to be celebrated and honored by the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Eta Psi Omega Chapter at Government House on Sunday, April 9th, 2017. The annual Awards Ceremony which began in 1976, follows a weekend of social and networking activities, including a competitive examination taken by the honorees, comprised of mathematics, general knowledge, and essay components. During the Awards Ceremony, the top performers in the examination received scholarship awards, with the top Valedictorian Award going to the young lady who received the best overall examination results. Eleuthera student, Saiydah Bryan of Central Eleuthera High School, at the climax of the afternoon ceremony, was announced as the overall winner, achieving what only two other family island students have done in the Awards’ 39 year history, beating out top contenders from St. Augustine’s College, St. Andrew’s School, Queen’s College, St. John’s College and the like. The Valedictorian Award, along with certificates and trophy, included a $5,000 scholarship award. Eleuthera was well represented at the Awards’
Local “Plus”
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
Central Eleuthera’s Saiydah Bryan, received the coveted top overall Valedictorian Award.
Weekend with top females from each high school in the district attending, including; Clishae Sands of Windermere High School; Erin Mullin of Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School; Genanta Laguerre of the North Eleuthera High School; Lachante Johnson of the Harbour Island All Age School; Marrissica Louis of Preston H. Albury High School; and Saiydah Bryan of the Central Eleuthera High School. The forty three schools, represented by their top female student at the Awards, included; Queen’s College, St. John’s College, St. Anne’s, St. Augustine’s College, RM Bailey High, Jordan Prince William, Hope Academy, Government High, Doris Johnson High, CV Bethel High, CR Walker High, CC Sweeting High, CW Saunders High, Bahamas Academy, Aquinas College, Anatol Rodgers High, Akepharan International, Sir Jack Hayward High, Grand Bahama Academy, St. Paul’s Methodist, Bishop Michael Eldon, Mary Star of the Sea, Louise McDonald High, SC Bootle High, St. Francis De Sales, Moore’s Island High, Mangrove Cay High, LN Coakley High, Central Eleuthera High, Preston H. Albury High, Samuel Guy All Age, Harbour Island All Age, North Eleuthera High, Windermere High, Old Bight High, Arthur’s Town High, North Long Island High, NGM Major High, RN Gomez High, Inagua All Age and Lyford Cay International.
| Apr/May 2017 25
26
Local
Apr/May 2017
www. EleutheraNews . com
National
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
National politics
Summary Commentary EXCERPTS OF THIS WEEK IN THE BAHAMAS (17 – 21 April 2017) BY ELCOTT COLEBY Baha Mar opens An investment journey that began in 2004 is nearing the finish line with a red letter day for The Bahamas in the phased opening of Baha Mar on Friday 21st April 2017. This Cable Beach project, termed the Bahamian Riviera, drew international attention and extensive commentary as it suffered its share of difficulties including a bankruptcy filing on 29th June 2015 but rebounded under new ownership, the CTF Enterprise of Hong Kong, a multi-national conglomerate with assets including high end resort property developments and jewelry merchandizing. Delivering the keynote address was Prime Minister Christie who restated the three major objectives of his government after Baha Mar’s June 2015 bankruptcy declaration. “Firstly, ensuring immediate remobilization and resumption of construction, based on committed funding sufficient to complete construction and to open all parts of the Project; “Secondly, the opening of the Casino, Casino Hotel, Convention Centre, Convention Hotel and Golf Course prior to the end of the 2016-2017 winter season, so that jobs would open up for Bahamians as soon as possible; “And thirdly, settlement and/or payment of all valid claims of contractors and subcontractors, suppliers and employees and other Baha Mar and CCA creditors.” The first phase amenities include the opening of the “1800-room hotel and the 200,000 square feet Convention Centre at Baha Mar being operated by the Grand Hyatt, as well as the 95,000 square foot, world class casino, the largest in the region, operated by Sky Warrior, and the 18-hole Jack Nicklaus PGA-rated Golf Course, together with other magnificent amenities” continued Prime Minister Christie. More than 1,500 Bahamians were hired in the first phase. Baha Mar’s use of local art is extensive and this operation promises to boost airlift into New Providence by some nineteen percent or 315,000 more air passengers than 2015 figures. “And there is even more to celebrate on the way” said Prime Minister Christie. “The coming months will see the completion and opening of the renowned brands of Rosewood and SLS, a luxurious spa, racquet club, restaurants, entertainment and attractive shops set in 60,000 square feet of retail space.” Over 120 candidates nominate for the 2017 general elections The mood was festive with the pulsating sounds of junkanoo and other themed songs as over 120 candidates from major political parties, fringe political parties and independents nominated on Thursday of this week as they vied for 39 electoral seats nationally. It was a respectful, peaceful and wonderful display of democracy that took place without incident. The Bahamian people must be congratulated. Nominating at the Centerville Primary School, Prime Minister Christie, the most senior parliamentarian, reflected on his “extraordinary” career as the representative in Parliament for the Centerville constituency, thanking them publicly
for their longstanding support. “Today is a very historic day in that this will be the final time that I nominate for the Centerville constituency. I have had, I think, by any accounts a wonderful, wonderful time as a representative. I have had extraordinary support from the people of Centerville notwithstanding the various changes that took place in the constituency and today I am really expressing my gratitude to the people because I expect that they will continue with my representation.” NHI enrolment centers announced The Ministry of Health advises that the public health clinics in New Providence can be selected as primary care providers for NHI enrolment. Enrolment began April 24, 2017. You can register at South Beach Health Centre, Elizabeth Estates Clinic, Flamingo Gardens Clinic, and Fleming Street Clinic. If you receive care at Coconut Grove, Blue Hill Road, Ann’s Town, or Fox Hill Clinics, register with Fleming Street Clinic. If you receive care at Adelaide and Gambier Clinics, register with Flamingo Gardens Clinic. Family Island Clinics patients should contact the clinic administrator for further information. If you have any questions please contact the NHI Hotline or the Department of Public Health at 502-4831 or 502-4896. Fitzgerald: “No contract with Baha Mar or any of its affiliates” On the eve of the Baha Mar opening, a story appeared in the local press suggesting that Education Minister the Hon. Jerome Fitzgerald solicited business from Baha Mar. The Minister released the following statement in response: “I have no contract with Baha Mar or any of its affiliates, nor do I own any shares in Bahamas Cargo & Logistics, which is a company formed by my father many years ago. “Nothing in today’s Tribune contradicts that. “Sarkis Izmiralian and I have communicated on any number of matters over the past 8 years either in person or by email. Prior to my father’s illness he had engaged in discussions with Baha Mar to get some work. After my father’s illness I wrote to Sarkis to follow up on those discussions and seek his assistance. Nothing came of it and that remains the case today. “When Mr. Izmiralian filed for bankruptcy in a US court, the Bahamian government moved quickly and decisively to bring the matter home to protect the interests of Bahamian employees and contractors. “Tomorrow is a big day for our country. The opening of Baha Mar is bringing thousands of jobs for Bahamians, will strengthen our economy, and will raise our nation’s profile internationally. I’m very proud of the role the government played in saving the resort from bankruptcy and getting it the hands of a world-class operator with successful properties across the Caribbean and the world.” Sir Lynden Pindling immortalized at the OAS Hall of Heroes On Thursday of this week, the Organization
The Eleutheran | Apr/May 2017
of American States (OAS) honoured the Father of our Nation, our national hero, Sir Lynden Oscar Pindling. In this hall of heroes, the House of the Americas, the legacy of leaders that have most contributed to the political economic and social advancement of our hemisphere is enshrined and celebrated. Sir Lynden has joined that elite group of national heroes and visionaries. Representing The Bahamas and delivering its response was Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Senator the Hon. Allyson Maynard-Gibson as Prime Minister Christie and Foreign Minister Fred Mitchell were being nominated in New Providence for the upcoming general elections. “He and our Founding Fathers were convinced of the virtue of fighting for the plight of the working man and against the unjust social and political oppression which for too long held at bay the opportunity for the average Bahamian to achieve his just aspirations. He was called affectionately the Black Moses. He was the trusted Leader who would lead Bahamians to the “Promised Land”. Majority Rule (the most significant historic event since the Emancipation) was obtained on 10 January 1967 and Independence on 10 July 1973. The Commonwealth of The Bahamas became a sovereign nation and her people embraced her citizenship” said Mrs. Maynard in her tribute to the legacy of Sir Lynden. In Passing… Transport and Aviation Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin could not confirm whether disciplinary action will be taken against those air traffic controllers who engaged in a “sick out” over the Easter holidays as a form of industrial action. A formal complaint has been filed with police after vandals destroyed and defaced PLP election posters in New Providence and several Family Islands. According to a statement from PLP Chairman Bradley Roberts, he made the complaint to Commissioner of Police Greenslade on Saturday. The PLP’s campaign promise to cover the cost of electricity to the poorest 15% to 20% of Bahamians was published on the party’s website. Party Chairman Bradley Roberts said that to provide “free” electricity to customers who keep their residential use below certain limits coincides with the party’s core principle of helping those who need it most. FNM Leader Dr. Minnis dismissed as “baseless, empty rhetoric” the promise by the PLP to give free electricity to certain people based on consumption should it win the next general election. DNA Leader Branville McCartney slammed the PLP for its “loose peddling of dreams” with regard to its pledge to provide free electricity to certain consumers after the next general election. The revelation that the PLP administration will provide free electricity for certain customers if the party is re-elected has created a stir, but Prime
27
Minister Christie said that the party’s platform has not yet been formally agreed upon, although platform planks have been made public. BPL has become the latest organization in the country to acquire electric vehicles for its company fleet. To date, BPL has purchased two 100 percent electric Nissan LEAFS from the local EV distributor, Easy Car Sales. The PLP Charter 2017 promises to “constantly upgrade healthcare infrastructure” in New Providence and the Family Islands as healthcare evolves in the upcoming phases of NHI. In its plan, which was posted on its website last week, the PLP also pledges to hold a major recruitment exercise to find and retain healthcare providers at all levels. The NHI Secretariat published a notification that NHI enrollment will begin in April 24th. To reduce the debt burden on Bahamians, the PLP has pledged it will cap the level of interest that may be charged on loans taken out by government workers and paid through salary reductions if reelected. While the specifics of the policy were not given, the pledge is contained in the PLP’s action plan posted on its website. FNM candidate for Centreville Reece Chipman yesterday criticized the appointment of a “known” PLP supporter as the returning election officer for that constituency, claiming that the selection could have a negative impact on the “quality of the election process”. If elected to office, the PLP plans to establish a “juvenile system and rehabilitation facility” to ensure that juvenile offenders charged with serious crimes are “separated” from adult criminals and other juvenile offenders. As part of its efforts to fight crime, the PLP plans to establish a new probation and parole program so that “in all cases, persons are not incarcerated where there is no need for incarceration”. FNM Leader Dr. Minnis issued a press release on what he argued to be the “Government’s Failure to Pay Government Employees”. PLP Chairman Bradley Roberts has accused Dr. Minnis of appearing to condone the “unwarranted and unlawful” industrial action that caused flight cancellations and lengthy delays at the Lynden Pindling International Airport as travelers were trying to get away for the Easter holidays. V. Alfred Gray, Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources has been presented with ‘Agri Vision 2021: A Five Year Food and Nutrition Security Plan to feed The Bahamas’. Amid concerns about the integrity of the voter register after hundreds of discrepancies were discovered, National Security Minister Dr. Nottage said while he has “many concerns”, the Parliamentary Registration Department is “working to get it right, and we will do our very best”.
Continued On Page 30
28
Perspective
Apr/May 2017
OP-ED By Sir Ronald Sanders www.sirronaldsanders.com
By Sir Ronald Sanders (The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States and the Organisation of American States. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies, University of London and Massey College in the University of Toronto. The views expressed are his own) Modern history is showered with women as political leaders and Heads of government. When women first emerged in these roles, it was regarded as ‘breaking a glass ceiling’ – a breakthrough for the female gender in occupying high positions once regarded as the preserve of men. There was truth in that sentiment at the beginning of that revolutionary trend, but even though women leaders do still attract support from some women - and the opposition of some men - purely on the basis of gender, the human race has moved on from solely gender considerations. Today, women as political leaders is not a gender issue. They have to prove that they are every bit as capable as men. Two events over the last few
Policy Statement: The Perspective, Out There, Op-ED and Letters section of The Eleutheran newspaper is a medium we provide for the members of the Eleuthera community to express their views and opinions on issues that directly or indirectly affect any part of our society. These views do not in anyway reflect the views of this newspaper. While we aim to publish all letters sent to us, please note The Letter to the Editor section is not a vehicle for people to air personal gri pes against another person and letters may be refused on the basis of ethics, which includes, but is not limited to, personal vendettas or attacks.
www. EleutheraNews . com
Women as Political Leaders – not a gender issue days brought this reality into sharp focus. The first was Theresa May, the unelected Prime Minister of Britain, calling a sudden general election for June 8, and the other was the launch of a new political party in Antigua and Barbuda by Joanne Massiah, a former elected member of the opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) who recently declared herself an independent member of the House of Assembly. In calling the British election, Theresa May brazenly broke a pledge she had given to the British people not to call an election before the Brexit negotiations with the European Union (EU) was completed. She broke that pledge for many reasons, the primary one being that the opposition Labour Party appears lacklustre and unappealing under the present leadership of Jeremy Corbyn. Calling the election while there is no formidable challenger from the main opposition party is an expedient decision. The Labour Party was caught napping, unable to oust Corbyn for a more dynamic and acceptable leader in time. In that context, May has a chance of being the elected Prime Minister of a Conservative government for the next five years. Ironically, however, it is another woman that might upset her cart and scatter her apples. Nicola Sturgeon, the feisty leader of the Scottish National Party, is determined that Scotland should eschew Brexit. The Scottish people voted overwhelmingly in last June’s referendum to stay in the EU. The battle between these two women is now firmly joined on fundamental political matters; gender has nothing to do with it. Should the pro-EU Liberal Democratic Party do well at the election with the backing of those voters in England, Wales and Northern who want to remain in the EU, a coalition of forces might yet topple May, having nothing to do with her gender. Across the ocean in a much smaller Island nation, Antigua and Barbuda, a woman threw her hat in the ring for the second time to become leader of a political party. On the last occasion, on the rubble of a defeated UPP, she sought the leadership in a contest against Harold Lovell. She had won her seat in Parliament in the general election; Lovell had not. Her decision to run for the leadership had nothing to do with gender, and all to do with a belief that she was a better candidate. As it turned out, she may have been too trusting of a system that she subsequently regarded as treacherous when Lovell
won the contest overwhelmingly, but as she saw it not fairly. Eventually, bad blood between the two led to her expulsion from the UPP. Now, she has formed the Democratic National Alliance (DNA), and Antigua and Barbuda has its first woman as the leader of a political party, not because of gender but because she holds the view that she has the capacity to lead the country. The Caribbean’s modern history has many such women, among them Mia Mottley, the present leader of the Barbados Labour Party. Then, there are those who made it to the office of Head of Government - Eugenia Charles of Dominica; Janet Jagan of Guyana; Portia Simpson-Miller of Jamaica and Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago. The essential ingredient was not their gender, but their readiness to take on the rough and tumble of politics. Appealing to gender alone and the refrain of “time for a woman’, does not cut it in the
world of real politics. Faint hearts do not make leaders; courage, drive and political astuteness are the criteria by which any leader is judged – man or woman. There are fine examples of such women in other places at this time and in former times. Altogether, 70 countries have had women as Heads of Government. History reminds us of the formidable Golda Meir of Israel; the tough stewardship of Indira Gandhi of India; the two Bandaranayke women Presidents of Sri Lanka; Margaret Thatcher of Britain; Isabel Martínez de Perón of Argentina; Benazir Bhutto of Pakistan; Gro Harlem Brundtland of Norway. Today, the highly-regarded Angela Merkel is serving her 12th year as Chancellor of Germany; Michelle Bachelet is in her second term as President of Chile and Ellen Sirleaf has been president of Liberia since 2006.
The weakness of assaults on second citizenship By Sir Ronald Sanders (The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the US and the OAS. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies, University of London and Massey College in the University of Toronto) Citizenship by Investment Programmes (CIPs) are operated, in one form or another, by many countries, including the US, Canada, and several European Union (EU) nations. Yet, commentators in various media single out Caribbean countries and Malta for adverse comment. The adverse comments start with the inferred condemnation that CIPs are inherently bad. But this blanket condemnation is not applied to Canada (where Quebec has recently reintroduced an investment programme leading to Citizenship), the US or the EU countries except for Malta, one of the smallest nations in the community. It is significant that the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which appraises the financial sector of every country, including those in the Caribbean and Malta, have never endorsed the condemnation of the CIPs. What the IMF has said, in relation to the Caribbean countries that operate such programmes, is that they are volatile and may not be sustainable
over time. So, the IMF has recommended to governments that they should utilise the largest portion of the CIP’s revenues for retiring debt. All of them follow this advice to one extent or another, although, understandably, they cannot commit all the revenues to debt service because they have to provide goods and services to their people. The critics of the CIP hang their disapproval on the peg of money laundering and tax evasion. They claim that CIPs can be used for these purposes, even though they have failed to explain how or to produce evidence of instances where it has occurred. But, they do so either from a lack of knowledge of the thoroughness with which CIP applicants are vetted, or because it suits them to ignore the facts. If the objective is to smear and discredit, why pay any attention to a reality that would explode it? The latest vituperative assault on the CIPs operated in the Caribbean and Malta claims that applicants can hide behind the veil of a limited company or a limited liability partnership, to secure citizenship and hide funds gained from tax evasion, money laundering and other crimes. However, in the CIP’s operated in the Caribbean and
Perspective
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com Malta, applicants have to be natural persons. Further, these persons have to provide extensive information on their backgrounds and financial history. That information, certainly in the case of Antigua and Barbuda (the country with which I am familiar), then goes through several layers of scrutiny, including by the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), an intergovernmental organization that facilitates international police cooperation. When an applicant emerges successfully from that process, his or her story has been laid bare and intensely inspected. The successful applicant does not, as uninformed commentators have alleged, end up with a fresh identity and the erasure of their previous nationality. All the information on the successful applicant, including their other nationalities and history, is retained in the records of the vetting agencies, including Interpol. Moreover, with the introduction of biometric passports, all the information regarding existing and previous nationalities are recorded, and are available at border crossings. Those who continuously condemn the CIPs also fail to acknowledge that all the governments that operate these programmes - by whatever name they are called - do so as a means of bringing revenues and investment into their countries. In the case of the small Caribbean countries and Malta, they have adopted these programmes out of economic necessity. For the most part, their economies are small; they suffer from a lack of sufficient domestic capital formation to fund development; they are reliant on, at the most,
two sources of economic activity that are subject to external influences; they suffer from poor terms of trade, including being treated by the rules of international trade as if they are the US, Japan, India and South Africa; and the cost of their very existence is higher than the majority of other countries because of their remoteness from global centres of production and distribution. They did not implement these programmes for any reason other than the financial benefits they bring. And, their reasoning is no different from that of large industrialised nations that operate similar programmes under different names. What is crucial to the success of these programmes and their acceptability is vigorous, thorough and intense scrutiny of the applicants for citizenship. No government knows that better than the ones who need the survival of the programmes in order to provide the revenues their countries require for social improvement and economic development. For the programmes to be successful, they certainly need applicants of high worth, but they also require great comfort by the governments of countries to which the successful applicants will travel. That is why the investment made in vetting applicants must be constantly reviewed and strengthened. Malta is a member of the 28-nation EU and the CIP Caribbean countries are members of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Within both these communities, concern has been expressed about the Citizenship programme on the basis that successful applicants then have access to all the other countries
The Eleutheran | Apr/May 2017
in each group. That argument is stronger in the case of the EU that does have unrestricted cross-border access and rights to establish business and take-up residence, although the Maltese government stresses that its citizens by investment are more thoroughly scrutinised than native-born European citizens. The argument is weaker in the case of CARICOM, where nationals of the member countries do not enjoy the rights enjoyed in the EU. Even native-born nationals of CARICOM countries do not have rights of residence and establishment, except for a small category of workers and, even then, the individual governments have the right to reject any person in keeping with their national laws. But, if the high worth persons, who become citizens of one CARICOM country by way of investment, chose to spread their investment to other countries within the community, governments have the right to reject it. They also have the privilege of welcoming the new investment without having to undertake the expense of attracting it or vetting the bona fides of the investor. At the bottom line, critics of the CIP will continue to beat the drum of condemnation – some of them for murky reasons. The answer to such criticism must be transparent, accountable programmes that maintain the highest standard of vetting that is possible. Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com
29
CLOSURE OF CRAWFISH SEASON AND USE OF COMPRESSORS Department of Marine Resources Palmetto Point, Eleuthera, Bahamas Ph: (242)332-0921 The crawfish season closed on Friday, March 31st 2017. The season will remain closed until August 1st, 2017. During the closure of the crawfish season, compressors for fishing purposes is prohibited. Fishermen are also reminded that a permit is required from the Bahamas Department of Marine Resources for the use of compressors. Compressors are only authorized to be used from August 1st to March 31st, annually, during the crawfish season, and are to be used at depths of 30 to 60 feet only. Fishermen who require the use of a compressor during the crawfish season are to apply to the Department of Marine Resources office, located in the TACY Auto Parts Building, South Palmetto Point, Eleuthera, (Ph: 242-332-0921) for a permit to use a compressor. The permit fee for same is $10. In Spanish Wells and Harbour Island, fishermen may contact the Administrator’s office for further information. The requirements to be satisfied when applying for a compressor permit are: 1. The fishing vessel must be registered with an up-to-date inspection by the Port Authority. 2. The vessel operator must hold a diver’s certification. 3. All fishing vessels 20 feet or longer must have a valid commercial/fishing permit issued by The Department of Marine Resources. 4. Proof of vessel ownership and positive photo (valid passport/ voter’s card) is required. Thank You For Complying. March 31th, 2016
A SPICE MEDIA GROUP (SMG) PUBLICATION Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, The Bahamas. CONSULTING EDITOR
MAN. DIR. / CO-Pub
Dr. V. J. Bryan, PhD,
Theresa Burrows
(Research/Write) vbryan@smgbusiness.com
Columnists
Andrew Burrows, Ronald Sanders
Man. Editor / Co-Pub
Phone | WHATSAPP | TEXT
1 (242) 422-9350 email / website services@TheEleutheran.com editor@TheEleutheran.com www.EleutheraNews.com
fax/landline
1 (242) 332-2993 The Eleutheran, P. O. Box EL-25166, Governor’s Harbour Eleuthera, The Bahamas.
Elizabeth Bryan, BBA (Photo/Writer) editor@TheEleutheran.com asst copy editor
Saiydah Bryan
contributing writers
Sherelle Wallace
In-house Writers - articles written and edited by The Eleutheran Team. These may be investigative, informational, Sports, Education, Business etc.
Current Issue Apr/May. 2017 Size: 40 Pages;
Stamped: April 26, 2017 6:59 AM
We appreciate members of the community reaching out to us daily and invite you to contact us at 422-9350. A Proud Supporter of: Community, Business, Young Entrepreneurs, Builders, Bahamas Public Schools, Community Organizations..Eleuthera
30
National
Apr/May 2017
National Commentary Continued from pg. 27 The PLP said in its recently released Charter 2017, it will ensure that issues at the New Providence Landfill are remediated by working with a strategic partner and “using scientific methods”. The DNA issued a press release highlighting that they are “committed to fiscal responsibility”. FNM Leader Dr. Minnis Tuesday night said his vision for agriculture is “broad” while pledging to “fix” the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) despite speculations from the governing PLP that a FNM led government would close down the agriculture based facility. More than 174,000 Bahamians have registered for next month’s general election, nearly 2,000 more persons than in 2012, according to the latest numbers from the Parliamentary Registration Department. BPL has announced the start of its small scale self-generation renewable energy grid tie-in program for residential customers, although per island limits are being imposed on the total amount that can be supplied. The DNA has condemned an alleged sexual assault of a woman that was taped and circulated on social media over the weekend with the DNA’s women candidates calling for “immediate action” against the perpetrators and accomplices of the “malicious” attack. The participants were later charged in the courts for lewd public conduct when police investigations revealed that it was not a sexual attack. The Government has given private sector groups just eight days to submit bids to take over the New Providence landfill’s management and remediation, a deadline that was described as “silly” and “ridiculous”. The Bahama Journal reported on Fred Mitchell’s claim that hedgefund billionaire Louis Bacon is funding FNM Candidates in The Bahamas. Freeport News reported on the PLP rally where supporters from Grand Bahama joined party candidates in an Easter Monday motorcade rally and Fun Day in West End. A recent national survey on the political climate in The Bahamas commissioned by the FNM, shows the FNM has a much higher favorability than the PLP and the DNA, but 32 percent of participants were undecided. Fire department officials are yet to determine the cause of a Tuesday night fire at the public landfill; Environment Minister Kenred Dorsette suspects it was arson. The private sector aims to tackle The Bahamas’ declining ‘ease of doing business’ rankings “head on” next month when all of this nation’s Chambers of Commerce gather for their annual conclave. BTC, has formally sponsored
the 2017 Bahamas Junkanoo carnival to the tune of $1 million in cash and kind, and took an extra bold step by sponsoring five bands over three years at $800,000. FNM Leader Dr. Minnis Thursday called on Prime Minister Christie to immediately “fire” Education Minister Jerome Fitzgerald for allegedly “corruptly” using his position of power. This, Dr. Minnis added, should also be the fate of Attorney General Maynard-Gibson, charging that anything less than an immediate removal makes Prime Minister Christie complicit in this “fraud”. At a mass rally at Arawak Cay on Thursday night, PLP leader and Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Perry G. Christie urged supporters to stand firm and to brace for “nastier” and “dirtier” smear tactics from an increasingly desperate FNM. Loretta Butler-Turner Thursday officially nominated to run in the 2017 general election as an Independent candidate for Long Island. According to the FNM rules, it means Mrs. Butler-Turner is no longer a member of that party. If the FNM is elected to office next month, the party plans to implement sweeping changes to the country’s education system, including the increase of police presence on school campuses, CCTV and other technology for monitoring and an increase of teacher compensation packages. After making a complaint to Parliamentary Commissioner Sherlyn Hall about the appointment of a “known” PLP supporter as the returning election officer for Centreville, FNM candidate for the area Reece Chipman said the woman in question has been removed. The termination of American HIV/AIDS relief funding for the country this year will have no impact on local efforts to combat the disease, Minister of Health Dr. Perry Gomez insisted yesterday. The Ministry of Social Services and Community Development has expressed “grave concern” about the recent circulation of videos on social media of a man apparently engaged in sexual intercourse with an unconscious woman. A new sales process has been initiated for the long closed South Ocean resort, Khaalis Rolle, Cabinet Minister describing the property’s revitalization as key to The Bahamas achieving higher GDP growth rates. All three major political parties held rallies on Friday night. The PLP and the FNM rallied in Grand Bahama while the DNA rallied at Windsor Park in Nassau. The PLP takes its machinery to Exuma on Saturday night for a mass rally.
www. EleutheraNews . com
Marsh Harbour Healthcare Centre Opened The new twelve (12) million dollar Marsh Habour Healthcare Centre was officially opened on Wednesday April 19th, 2017. The state-of-the-art facility spans 33,000 square feet, and provides for primary care services, triage and ambulatory care, maternal and child health services and dental care. The new healthcare facility is also equipped to stabilize patients who require transfer to a tertiary institution like the Princess Margaret Hospital or Rand Memorial Hospital. Providing the keynote address at the Commissioning Ceremony, Prime Minister the Rt. Honourable Perry Christie referenced the Government’s recent program of renovations targeting community clinics in New Providence and the Family Islands. These projects he said, are a prerequisite to the rollout of National Health Insurance. “My Government has spearheaded an intensive effort to reimagine and reform our national health
platform in an effort to realize the essential values of a modern public health system: access, quality, equity, affordability and sustainability,” said Christie. The Prime Minister forecasted the completion of the Healthcare Centre in Exuma “in the shortest time possible.” He went on to announce that the Ministry of Finance has dedicated funding for a mini-hospital to be constructed in Palmetto Point, Eleuthera. The project to construct the Marsh Harbour Healthcare Centre began in 2012, and was funded by the National Insurance Board. The Public Hospitals Authority assumed responsibility for finishing the facility early this year with work beginning on February 13th, 2017.
PM Perry G. Christie leads a delegation on tour of the newly opened facility.
Perspective
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
who leads By: Andrew L. Burrows andrewburrows1@gmail.com
There is no perfect country in this world that we can look at as an example for the rest of the world to copy. However, there are some principals that if followed would make living a better experience for most. In every society that exists today there are good examples we could
adapt, and there are also many bad examples that should be avoided. In the past there were groups of people that we refer to as ‘Tribes’ because they were made up largely of offspring of a single family and lived in isolated places to avoid infiltration by others. Most of such tribes also had a religion of their own which also acted as a discriminating factor to keep them separated from others. In such a setting their leader would be a single dominating Chief, and or a group of leading Elders. Today most societies function in a country, with cities and towns that are presided over by an elected government. Our countries are also populated by a diversity of people, with many religions and cultures that for the most part attempt to live together with some degree of unity. The ever-present problem is not that there is lack of resources, but the bias that
dictate who gets to own and control the greatest amount of available land and natural wealth. Every country today has problems inherited from previous generations that were not settled correctly, and therefore continue to ferment discontent among the present generation. Many political leaders have gained power based on the issues that make us discontent with our limitations. The problem with this form of leadership is that those who use it never truly correct the cause. We have seen the rise of Communism which replaced failed monarchs who totally lost touch with the people they ruled over. Communism in its purest form is perfect, but, if enacted with deception, promising to take from those who have and give to those who do not, really solves nothing. When you read the Bible you find that God promised Abraham who was already old and had no children, that He would make him into a great nation, but this would only happen after four generations of his descendants were oppressed in a foreign nation. God told him that they would return to the land where Abra-
More than 2 dozen illegal immigrants detained in April By the eleutheran news team
Police and Immigration officials saw an uptick in illegal arrivals this past month, with available reports revealing more than two dozen people taken into custody in reference to illegal landing or having no legal documentation. Three (3) undocumented migrants were taken into custody by Police on Harbour Island on Monday, April 17th, 2017. They were arrested while at a residence on Dunmore Street, sometime before 9am. The three (3) migrants, who were all males of Haitian nationality were found to have no legal documentation to reside in the Bahamas. Their names, as provided, were, Alex Briceus, Jean Cuis and Pierre Dessone. Immigration officials confirmed that they were scheduled to be transported from Harbour Island, where they were held in Police custody, to New Providence on Wednesday morning, April 19th.
Earlier this month, on Sunday, April 9th, 2017, Police responded to an anonymous call into the Rock Sound Police Station reporting two unknown men, believed to be of Haitian nationality, and possibly part of a larger group from an illegal landing, in the Bannerman Town community. An operation was conducted in the area by Police and Immigration Officers, resulting in twenty one (21) suspected illegal immigrants being arrested. The following day, on Monday, April 10th, 2017, sometime around 12:15pm, Officers while at the Rock Sound International Airport received information in regard to four (4) male suspects in the area of the John Millars community believed to be of Haitian nationality. Officers responded to the area, where four (4) men were discovered, all of Haitian nationality and undocumented. The suspects were arrested in reference to illegal landing, detained and later handed over to the Dept. of Immigration.
The Eleutheran | Apr/May 2017
ham was living and establish a country that would follow the rules that God gives them. It was to Moses that God gave the Ten Commandments and the Law that was to govern the country of Israel. We are soon to again take time out to choose people who will form (or deform) the next party driven government. I always say this one thing “the people get the kind of government they deserve”. It was told to us that the style of leadership we inherited is ‘Democratic’ and is a representation of the people. Strange as it is, we are still awaiting the implementation of truly representative leadership. When you vote for a Party, you cannot expect true representation because you have voted for party proposal, not an individual’s representation. Under the present system we accept an ‘all powerful’ prime minister that swears allegiance to an alien entity, and who appoints a puppet senate, and we call that democracy! I think it is high time to wake up from sleep and see the real scenery in the light of day! There is real reason for change, not in who we vote for, but in how we choose to govern ourselves. The ‘divide
31
and conquer‘ system we presently use is not good for us. It is better for us to dismiss the failed party system and choose an ‘independent’ who will account directly to the people that elected them, and also elect a president who is accountable to an independent panel that can override when necessary. Who leads us is very important, so much so that God has determined that His Son will return to this earth soon and will destroy all the failed governments of this world. If we are to fare well until that time comes, we have a tremendous responsibility to make sensible choices for ourselves that will promote the best interest of all. A country divided is a failed state. As living in this world becomes more complicated and larger countries enforce their will on us, we must remain strong in our will to serve the greatest authority there is; Read Revelation chapters 4 and 5.
32
Crime News
Apr/May 2017
www. EleutheraNews . com
Reports are printed to keep the public informed of the incidents of crime that are reported within our communities. All reports are to be treated as allegations only. Reports issued by the RBPF locally.
Arrest reference to possession of Dangerous Drugs On Monday 17th April, 2017 at about 7:25am, police, acting on intelligence and armed with a search warrant searched a residence located Colebrooke Street, Harbour Island. Three males were at the residence at that time. The search led to the discovery of a sum of money in U.S and Bahamian currency was discovered covered on the floor. Further searches on the outside in the presence of the males led to the discovery of a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspects were then arrested and cautioned. The sum of one thousand six-hundred and seventy-nine dollars ($1679.00) in US and Bahamian Currency found in the residence was seized as proceeds derived from criminal conduct. The suspects along with the exhibits were transported to Harbour Island Police Station where the suspects were booked in and the seized funds and drug exhibits later taken to DEU office where investigations continue ¬in this matter. Arrest reference to undocumented migrants Sometime around 8.50am on Monday 17th April, 2017 police came to the Harbour Island Police Station with several Haitian nationals and reported arresting and cautioning them around 8.30am while at a residence on Dunmore Street Harbour Island in reference to being undocumented migrants. They gave their names as Alex Briceus DOB 24/5/70 of Colebrook Street Harbour Island, Jean Cuis and Pierre Dessone (no other information ascertained). Arrest reference to disorderly behavior and resisting arrest Sometime around 9.15am on Monday 17th April, 2017 police came to Harbour Island Police Station with a male suspect of Trianna Shores Harbour Island and reported arresting and cautioning him around 9.00am while at Love Lane Harbour Island in reference to disorderly behavior and Resisting arrest. Sometime around 10.30pm same date, the suspect was released from custody pending further investigation. He appeared to be in good health and made no complaints. Arrest reference to house breaking and stealing Sometime around 10.25am on Monday 17th April, 2017 police at Harbour Island Police Station arrested and cautioned a male suspect of Gregory Town Eleuthera in reference to house breaking and stealing. The suspect was held in police custody at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station. Stealing report Police action requested On Monday 17/4/17 at about 7:30pm a female of Commonwealth Avenue Massachusetts and c/o a hotel located Bay Street Harbour Island reported that at about 1:00pm she along with her Boyfriend left
their Hotel room to go to “Sip Sip” Beach with a Red travel hand bag provided by the Hotel with a combination lock. Upon arrival to the Beach she placed the bag properly locked on the Lounge chair on the beach leaving her Apple Rose Gold I-Phone 7 s/n unknown valued at $600, her boyfriend’s Black Motorola Droid Razor s/n unknown valued at $200 and $300 on U.S and Bahamian currency on the inside of the bag to take a walk on the beach and to have lunch. When they returned at 6:25pm they discovered that some unknown person had torn the lock off the bag and stole their belongings. Police Assistance Requested Police assistance was requested in a dispute between a female in Eleuthera and a male in Harbour Island in reference to the actions and custody of a teen child. The matter was resolved with all parties agreeing upon the terms. Police Information A male of Queen’s Highway, Harbour Island came into H.I.P.S and reported that on same date around 1:30am while at a Nightclub, he was approached and assaulted by the club’s security officer who punched him to his left eye causing swelling and pain. He further stated that he would return to Harbour Island Police Station later in the day to give a written statement. He was given a hospital form to seek medical attention which he accepted. Threats of Death Report On Friday 14th April,2017 at about 3:50 pm a male of Johnson Road came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that sometime between 12:30 pm and 1:00 pm a male known to him came to his residence with a black handle silver blade knife and threatened to kill him. Police action requested. Trespassing Report On Friday 14th April, 2017 at about 4:00 pm a female of Johnson Road came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that sometime around 1:00 pm a male known to her came to her residence with a knife and threatened to kill her son. She further reported that she asked the male to leave her premises several times and he refused. Police action requested. Arrest Sometime around 4.10pm a male of Colebrooke Lane came to the Harbour Island Police Station where he was arrested and cautioned in reference to Threats of Death and Trespassing. He appeared well. Police Assistance Requested On Thursday 13/4/17 at about 3:15pm a male of Colebrooke Street Harbour Island came in at Harbour Island Police Station and reported that he was issued with a letter summoning his former employer to meet with him and the department of Labour on Tuesday 18/4/17 at 11:00am. Police assistance requested. On same date police reported that while at a House located on Colebrooke Street Harbour Island she saw and spoke with the owner of mentioned house who accepted the letter from Labour department. The former employee requested to collect his belongings from the cottage that he occupied on the property. The owner stated that the former employee no longer resides on her property and the locks had been changed. The property manager, a male, confirmed that the former employee did have some belongings in the cottage and as a result
Police Contact Numbers
HeadQuarters (GH) Governor’s Harbour OR O/C Governor’s Harbour Gov.Harb. Airport Station Deep Creek Station Tarpum Bay Station Rock Sound Station
332-3500 332-2111 332-2117 332-2723 332-2323 334-8207 334-4033 334-2244
he was allowed to collect his belongings. No further assistance requested. Stealing On Thursday 20th April, 2017 at about 9:45 am a male of Barrack Street, Harbour Island came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that sometime between 1:00 pm on Friday 14.04.17 and 2:00 pm on Monday 17.04.17 some unknown person/s stole his 17’ white and black Boston Whaler which had a gray 115 HP Yamaha engine attached all valued at $3,500.00 while it was docked on the bay in the area of the dump site on Bay Street, Harbour Island. He further reported that he received information that his boat was located on the bay on Cabbage Cay however the lower unit and cables are missing. Police action requested. Causing Harm report Sometime around 4.50pm on Thursday 20th April, 2017, a female of Dunmore Street reported to the Harbour Island police station that sometime around 1.00am on Thursday 20/4/17 while in the area of her former boyfriend located at Bay Street, Harbour Island , he slapped her to the right side of the face causing injuries to her right eye and lips. She requested police action in this matter. Police issued the complainant with a Police Hospital form to seek medical attention. The matter is under investigation. Bush fire report Sometime on Thursday 20th April, 2017 it was reported to North Eleuthera Airport Police Station that there was a large cloud of smoke coming from the Bluff Eleuthera Community area. Police assistance was requested. Police upon arrival in the Bluff Community observed a large bush fire on the North Western side of Queens High Way in the area of North Eleuthera Shopping Centre and that was spreading and threatening homes in the nearby area. The Governors Harbour Police Station was contacted and summoned the assistance of volunteer fire brigade of Palmetto Point and Harbour Island. The mentioned brigades arrived on the scene and extinguished the flames. Lost Property On Wednesday 19th April, 2017 at about 9:35am a female of London reported that at about 1:00pm, while at a Restaurant, she discovered that her gray reading glasses valued at $350.00 were not in her bag she is uncertain if she lost them or if the pair was stolen. She does not know when last she saw her glasses. The matter was reported for insurance purposes. Disturbance Report An anonymous caller contacted the Governors Harbour Station at about 8:48pm
Rock Sound Sgt. Office Rock Sound Airport Station Lower Bogue Station (Airport) Harbour Island Station O/C Harbour Island Spanish Wells Station Gregory Town Station Hatchet Bay Station
334-2212 334-2052 335-1208 333-2111 333-2327 333-4030 335-5322 335-0086
on the 16.4.17 and reported that there was a disturbance at a residence. Police assistance was requested. Officers responded to the scene , saw and spoke to an adult male resident who stated that his brother in law came to the back door of his upstairs apartment with a cutlass, creating a disturbance, shouting “you’ll $%%$ don’t respect” and tried to get inside the apartment, when he was stopped by his wife. He said that his brother in law then went downstairs in front of the apartment and threw several bottles upstairs through the front door where he cut his right thumb and wrist from one of the broken bottles thrown. Officers then saw and spoke to an adult male resident who stated that shortly after 8:00pm he went downstairs to get a broom , when he was approached by the suspect who he said asked him what he was doing there and proceeded to get a cutlass and follow him upstairs after he didn’t answer him. He said the suspect while at the backdoor of the upstairs apartment pointed the cutlass at him while he was shouting and trying to get into the apartment, putting him in fear. The sister of the suspect stated that after 8:00pm, while at home her brother came upstairs with a cutlass creating a disturbance and she hurt her right leg preventing him from entering. She did not request police action in this matter. The two adult males requested Police action. Arrest in reference to Causing Harm and Assault with a Deadly Instrument At about 10:25pm on Sunday 16th April, 2017, Officers cautioned and arrested the male suspect in reference to Causing Harm and Assault with a Dangerous Instrument. Investigations are ongoing. Burglary On 16/04/17 sometime around 5:00 am Officers received information of a break-in at the residence of an adult male. Officers responded to the scene where the Complainant reported that sometime around 12:05 am, he being accompanied by his girl friend and others, went to the Rock Sound Home Coming. They secured all windows and doors, however they did not engage the deadlocks. At about 4:40am they returned home only to discover some unknown person(s) had broken into the residence point of entry unknown and stole approximately $13,000 thirteen thousand dollars in cash derived from sales made a day earlier. Police Action Requested. This matter is under active investigation. Arrest/ Obscene Language, Disorderly Behavior , Resisting Arrest, Threats of Harm. On 15/4/17, at 4:42am, Officers came in at the Rock Sound police station with an adult male under arrest for disorderly behavior, Obscene Language, Resisting arrest and Threats
Crime News
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com of Harm. He was reportedly arrested at 4:30am while at a local night club. The suspect was processed and charged with the following Offences, Threats of harm contrary to section 203, resisting arrest contrary to section 247,disorderly behavior contrary to section 206(1) and Obscene language contrary to section 208(2), all of the penal code chapter 84. The defendant was released from Police custody on bail in the sum of $2,000.00 with two sureties to appear at the Rock Sound Magistrate Court sitting on 18th May 2017 to answer to the said charges. Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs At about 2:08pm on Friday 14th April, 2017, Officers arrested an adult male in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. They reported arresting him on same date at 2:05pm while onboard the M/V Sea Wind which was docked at Cupids Cay, Governors Harbour, Eleuthera, after a search was conducted of a gray and black “American Tourist” travel backpack, - the property of the suspect and they discovered inside one foot of a white Nike Air Jordan size 8 tennis, a transparent Ziploc plastic bag containing two transparent wrapped packages, each with a quantity of plant material suspected to be marijuana. The suspect and the suspected drugs were brought to the G.H.P.S. for processing. Traffic Offence Report On Saturday 15th April, 2017 sometime around 11:20am Officers while on mobile patrol reported an adult male for driving a green 1995 Suzuki Vitara Jeep east along Dry Hill Road while it was unlicensed, uninspected and while failing to notify change of ownership. The driver was informed of the offences, told to produce his driver’s license and proof of third party risk insurance to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station within 48hrs and he was also warned of prosecution. Investigations are ongoing. Accident (Damage Only) An Anonymous caller contacted Rock Sound Police Station via telephone and reported that an accident had occurred on Queen’s Highway Tarpum Bay south of S.E.E.P Building. Police assistance requested. Officers responded to the scene where observations were made that two (2) vehicles had collided. Vehicle (1) a gray 2007 Honda Accord registered to an adult female was in a southern direction partially in both lines having extensive damages to the front right section and tire. Vehicle (2) a silver 1996 Ford F-150 truck registered to an adult male was in a northern direction in the south bound lane partially off the east side of Queen’s Highway having sustained damages to its front right section and tire. At this time both drivers were identified and cautioned in the presence of each other. Driver (1) an adult male stated, “ He was driving south on Queens Highway at about 35mph when a vehicle traveling north swerved in his lane and hit his vehicle. He then lost control of the vehicle and stopped where he is now positioned . Driver (2)Vehicle also an adult male visitor to the island stated that while traveling north on Queen’s Highway at about 30mph a vehicle traveling south swerved into his lane causing him to pull to the left side of the road. However the vehicle still collided into his vehicle causing damages to the right side. The truck stopped on the right side of the road. Both drivers disagreed on the point of impact. Measurements were taken of the scene and NOIP forms were issued. Also driver of vehicle No. 1 was further warned of prosecution
reference to fraudulent use of a license plate. Investigations are ongoing in this matter. Shop Breaking Report On 14/4/17 at 11:00pam an adult male contacted the R.S.P. Station via telephone and reported that Teen Scene Camp Bahamas was broken into and items were stolen. Police assistance was requested. On 14/4/27 at 11:35am Officers ¬¬¬¬visited the Teen Scene Summer Camp Bahamas Bannerman Town where the manager gave a tour of the site where the main building and the storage room were broken into items appeared to be missing at this time. • Grill valued at $40 • One burner portable stove valued at $50 • An air condition unit make and model unknown valued at $300 • Portable water pumps valued at $250 • Variety of food items valued at $400 • Two (2) fifty five gallon garbage bins valued at 90 • Power drill valued at $200 • Lawn mower valued at $250 • Two (2) gas containers valued at $80 • Bucket of various tools valued at $400 • Windows valued at $450 Collective value totaling $2510 Police Investigations continues. Accident (Serious Injuries) On 14/4/17 at 4:14pm the Police received reports of a traffic accident involving injuries near Coco plums on Queens Highway Rock Sound.. Police assistance was requested. Officers responded to the scene where they discovered a 2003 Honda Fit Self Drive vehicle . The male driver who was later identified as a visitor from New Providence was found unconscious between the driver and passenger seat of the right hand drive vehicle . Suffering from a deep laceration to the left side of the face and appeared to have difficulty breathing. At about 5:00pm Dr. S Smith V. Roberts and Andrea Roberts arrived on the scene via ambulance where he and the crew assisted the driver to the Rock Sound Clinic, the patient was stabilized, treated and referred to Nassau for further medical treatment. At 7:00pm he was transported to the Rock Sound airport via ambulance where he was air lifted to Nassau. The vehicle had extensive damages to the front windshield, front passenger door, front door frame and front right side. Investigations are ongoing. Marijuana(found) On 14/4/17 at 7:54pm Officers came in at the R.S.P. station with one black paint kettle, which had three clear plastic wrappings of a grassy like substance suspected to be marijuana. The same was found in a bushy area opposite the business establishment 700 Wines and spirits located Queens Highway Rock Sound. The same was initialed for future identification and secured. Investigations are ongoing. Stealing From a Vehicle On Thursday 13/4/2017 sometime around 12:43pm; an adult male came to the RSPS and reported that sometime during the month of February 2017 he left Rock Sound to travel to Nassau. He returned on 12th April 2017, and discovered that the engine, transmission, amplifier, ac compressor, tool box and other items removed from
The Eleutheran | Apr/May 2017
his vehicle without his consent. The value of the items is unknown. This matter is under active investigation. Arrest reference to Damage At about 9:30am on Wednesday 12th April, 2017, Officers while in the area of the 700 Wines and Spirits located on Queens Highway, Governors Harbour, Eleuthera, arrested and cautioned an adult male reference to a Damage complaint made on 11/4/16. He was transported to the G.H.P.S. for processing. Investigations are ongoing. Suspect Cautioned reference to Dangerous Drugs At about 9:36am on Wednesday 12th April, 2017, Officers while at the G.H.P.S. and conducting a search of an adult male suspect , discovered a silver foil wrapping in the suspects left sock containing suspected marijuana. As a result he was warned of prosecution reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. A further search of the suspect was conducted and resulted in the discovery of a white plastic bag in the waist band of the suspect’s underwear which contained (26) foil wrappings of suspected marijuana. He was further cautioned to Possession of Dangerous Drugs with intent to supply. Further $379.00 assorted cash was seized as proceed of drug sales. Mentioned drug’s was seized and labeled as exhibit. Investigations are ongoing. Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs At about 12:51pm on Wednesday 12th April, 2017, Officers came in at the G.H.P.S. with an adult male , and reported arresting him while at the Government Dock , Governors Harbour, Eleuthera, reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs with intent to Supply after they found a “brick” of what appeared to be compressed marijuana in a clear plastic bag inside the suspect’s travel bag. The Suspect was cautioned and warned of further prosecution. Same was collected and labeled as exhibit along with $7,651.00 mixed US hundred and dollar bills which was confiscated as drug proceeds. Two Boxes containing (25) each of Grabba Leaf Cigar wraps was also collected as exhibit. Investigations are ongoing. Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs At about 12:51pm on Wednesday 12th April, 2017, Officers came in at the G.H.P.S. with an adult male and reported arresting him while at the Government Dock, Cupids Cay, Governors Harbour, Eleuthera, reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs with intent to Supply after a search of the suspect revealed drug paraphernalia along with $507.00 mixed currency, which was confiscated as drug proceeds. The suspect was cautioned and warned of further prosecution. Investigations are ongoing. Willful Damage Report At about 4:35pm on Tuesday 11th April, 2017 an adult female reported to the Governors Harbour Police Station that sometime between 7:31am and 3:25pm on today’s date, some unknown person(s) caused damage to her 2008 dark grey Nissan (4) four door Fuga. Complainant stated that all four (4) of her tires appeared to have been punctured with a value of $280.00 to replace same. Complainant further stated that she was informed that sometime around 3:25pm, an adult male known to her was seen in the area of her vehicle and fled on foot upon persons entering the yard. Police action requested. The suspect in this matter was arrested. Investigations are ongoing.
33
Threats of Harm An adult female came to the Station and reported that her son a student informed her that on Monday 10th April 2017 sometime around 10:45 pm a male known to her sent threatening voice notes via whatts app to him. Police action requested. This matter is under active investigation. Causing Harm An adult male came to the station and reported that sometime around 7:40pm while in the area of St Luke’s Anglican Church a male known to him chopped him on his left arm with a cutlass. Police action requested. A written statement was recorded from the complainant and he was referred for medical attention. Officers then apprehended the suspect in reference to Causing Harm, he was processed and later charged with that offence. Threats of Death Report: At about 3:18pm on 10/04/2017 an adult male contacted Governor’s station via telephone and reported that sometime around 3:00pm while at his business a male known to him came in front of his place and threatened to kill him if he appeared in court putting him in fear for his life and safety. Police action requested. Suspect arrested Ref: Threats of Death At about 5:00pm on 10/04/2017, Officers saw and spoke with an adult male , who was seated opposite the complainant’s establishment. The suspect was informed of the complaint made against him, and he was cautioned and arrested reference to “Threats of Death”. Investigations continue. Arrest Ref. Possession of Dangerous Drugs At about 5:00pm on Wednesday 19th April 2017 Officers came in at the Governors Harbour Police Station with an adult male under arrest and reported that he was arrested at about 4:55pm reference to possession of dangerous drugs after he was found in possession of a quantity of suspected dangerous drugs to wit marijuana. The suspect was later interviewed and charged Housebreaking Reported At 3:35pm on Tuesday 18th April, 2017 an adult male contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station via phone and reported , that sometime between 2:30pm on Saturday 15th April, 2017, and 8:45am on Tuesday 18th April, 2017, some unknown person/s break and entered the basement of a single story home and stole a Myers Water Pump valued at $475.00, a Maytag Pressure Tank valued at $700.00, a Skill saw valued at $120.00, and a hand drill valued at $90.00 also caused damage to a Tankless water Heater valued at $550.00. Police action is requested. Officers responded to the scene where officers were led to a western facing storage room/ basement door that was opened and observed a damaged Tankless Water Heater on the ground. The lock to this door was still intact and it appeared that the door was pulled open. A check of the area was made; negative to locating any stolen items. Investigations are ongoing. Damage report On Sunday 09th April 2017 sometime around 11:12pm an adult female came into the Rock Sound Police Station and reported that a male known to her threw a bottle and caused damages to her 2010 Mazda Verisa
Continued On Page 34
34
Crime News
Apr/May 2017
Crime Reports Continued from pg. 33 rear windshield by means of shattering same. Police action requested . Officers responded to the scene , All damages were viewed and the complainant was instructed to produce a written estimate outlining the cost of replacement windshield. Independent witness statement recorded enquiries continuing. Traffic Accident Report At about 10:51pm on Thursday 6th April 2017, an anonymous male contacted the G.H.P.S. via telephone and reported that a “head on” Traffic Accident had occurred on the Banks Road, Palmetto Point, involving two vehicles. The caller further stated that one of the drivers may have received minor injuries, and that another male is in the area creating a disturbance. Police assistance requested. Officers responded to the scene visited the scene of a traffic accident on Bank’s Road north of Bougainvillea Restaurant involving a white 2011 Chevy Van driven north along Banks Road by an adult male who collided into a red 1997 Dodge Dakota truck and driven by an adult male Travelling south along Bank’s Road. Both vehicles received extensive front end damages as a result of the accident. The driver of vehicle No. 2 received minor injuries to his mouth and right arm and his front seat passenger an adult female received minor injuries to her right leg. Passengers of vehicle # 1 an adult female complained of pain in her neck and an adult male complained of a bruised right knee. Both drivers were interviewed under caution in the presence of each other, NOIP forms was served on both drivers and measurements taken. Investigations into this matter are ongoing. Ferocious Dog Sometime around 11:35 am an adult male came to the station and reported that on Tuesday 4th April, 2017 while walking through a track road between Fish Street and yellow Ground Road sometime around 9:00 am he was attacked by a brown and white pit bull dog. He was bitten on his left leg, thigh area and right hand. Police action requested. Investigations continue. Arrest/Possession of D/ Drugs w/Intent To Supply On 2/04/17 Supt. C. Wright lead a team of Officers on an operation which resulted in the arrest of an adult female while at her residence reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs W/Intent to supply. After a search of her property revealed a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence. Arrest Possession Dangerous Drugs On 2/04/17 Supt. C. Wright lead a team of officers on an operation which resulted in the arrest of an adult male after acting on information received they executed a search warrant on his residence reference to Dangerous Drugs and Firearms. Causing Harm On Sunday 2nd April 2017 sometime around 9:30pm, an adult female , came in at Rock Sound Police Station complaining of severe headaches, and reported that sometime around 8:30pm today’s date while at a beach party , a male known to her punched her down to the ground and punched her up in the head and about the body for no reason. Police action was requested. The complainant was issued a hospital
form and referred for medical assistance. Investigations are ongoing. Arrest Possession/ Dangerous Drugs W/Intent to Supply On Sunday 2nd April 2017 sometime around 10:05pm, an adult male came in at Rock Sound Police Station where he was arrested and cautioned reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs with Intent to Supply. He was processed and charged with that offence. Arrest Reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs/ Conspiracy On Sunday 2nd April, 2017 at 8:30am Supt. C .Wright lead a team of Officers on an operation which resulted in the arrest of an adult male reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs and Conspiracy to Possess Dangerous Drugs. Arrest Reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs/ Conspiracy On Sunday 2nd April, 2017 at 9:59am Supt. C .Wright lead a team of Officers on an operation which resulted in the arrest of an adult male reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs and Conspiracy to possess Dangerous drugs. Arrest Reference to Assaulting a Police Officer, Disorderly Behavior, Resisting Arrest & Obscene language: On Sunday 2nd April, 2017 at 4:20pm Officers arrested an adult male for Assaulting a Police Officer, Resisting Arrest & Obscene Language. Traffic Offence Report At about 11:15am on Friday 31st 2017 Officers while conducting a traffic check on Queens Highway, Hatchet Bay Eleuthera along with other officers reported an adult male for driving a red 2001 Kia Sportage south along Queens Highway while same had no front license number plated affixed. The driver was informed of the offence and warned of prosecution. Arrest Ref. Possession of Dangerous Drugs with Intent to Supply At about 11:15am on Friday 31st March, 2017 while conducting a traffic check on Queens Highway, Hatchet Bay they searched two adult males in reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs resulting in the discovery of a quantity of suspected marijuana as a result both males were arrested reference to possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply. Arrest ref. Possession of Dangerous Drugs At about 1:55pm on Friday 31st March 2017 Officers while on mobile patrol arrested an adult male after he was found in possession of suspected marijuana. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence. He was subsequently released on bail in the amount of $1000 with one surety to appear in court on the 16/5/17. Police Assistance Requested At 12:40am on Saturday 1st April, 2017 an adult male , contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police Station via phone and reported that he just observed a male clad in dark clothing on the Windermere Island premises. He further stated that he approached the male who pulled a hood over his face and ran into nearby bushes. Police assistance requested. Officers visited the scene reference to this matter, saw and spoke to the complainant. A check was made of the entire property
www. EleutheraNews . com
with negative results. The area was left quiet. Road Accident Report On Wednesday 29th March 2017 at 12:55pm an adult male came into the Governor’s Harbour Police Station and reported that he was involved in a traffic accident in the area of the Da Perk Café, Queens High way Governor’s Harbour police assistance requested. Officers visited the scene where there were two vehicles involved, a white 2006 Ford F150 Driven by an adult male who reported that he was reversing out the parking lot at “Da Perk” restaurant in the vicinity of Haynes Way and Queens Highway Governors Harbour, when he collided with a red Ford Ranger truck also driven by an adult male who was travelling in a southern direction. Both vehicles received minor damages, the were no injuries. Both drivers was served with a NOIP. Investigations are ongoing. Possession of Dangerous Drugs At about 12:45pm on Tuesday 28th March, 2017, Officers after returning from court, conducted a search of a male prisoner while at the G.H.P.S. where he was found in Possession of a clear plastic wrapping containing a grassy material suspected Dangerous Drugs. Same was collected and he was charged with that offence. Causing Harm Report On Tuesday 28th march, 2017 sometime around 5:50pm, an adult male visited RSPS and reported that sometime around 5:30pm he was stabbed to the left side of the chest by a female known to him , he was bleeding profusely and as a result was issued with a hospital form and sent to Rock Sound Clinic for medical treatment. The victim was seen by Dr. Reyes who stated that the bleeding could not be stopped and as a result the victim has to be flown to New Providence for further medical treatment. At about 8:48pm, the victim flown from Rock Sound Clinic via private charter to New Providence for further medical treatment. Causing Harm Report: On Tuesday 28th March, 2017 sometime around 5:52pm, an adult female reported to RSPS that sometime around 5:45pm, while at her residence a male known to her, threw a rock at her hitting her on the left foot and then he pushed her to the ground and punched her in the head causing pain. Police Action requested in this matter. The Complainant was issued with a Hospital form and seen by medical personell. The suspect was subsequently arrested and charged with causing harm. Road Accident Report Involving Injury At about 4:50pm on Saturday 25th March 2017 an anonymous caller contacted the Governors Harbour Police Station and reported that there is a traffic accident in Savannah Sound involving two vehicles with injuries. Police assistance is requested. Officers responded to the scene of a traffic accident at the intersection of Duke Street and an unknown street in the main settlement of Savannah Sound involving two vehicles. Vehicle #1 is a blue 2002 Chevy Avalanche registered to and driven north along the unknown street by an adult male which collided into a gold 2004 Honda Accord driven by an adult male resulting in both vehicles sustaining damages. The driver of vehicle #1 along with the front seat passenger of vehicle #2 also suffered injuries. Both persons was transported to the Levy Medical Clinic Governor’s Harbour where they both received medical treatment and were discharged. Measurements were recorded, statements taken and
both drivers issued with an N.O.I.P form. Investigations are ongoing. Road Accident Report with Injuries At 4:16am Saturday 25th March 2017,an adult male came in at the Governors Harbour Police Station and reported that sometime around 3:30am on Saturday the 25/03/2017 while travelling north along Queens Highway in Palmetto Point in a dark green 2006 Hyundai Tucson , he was struck by an unidentified approaching vehicle that sent him spinning out of control and over turning numerous times into nearby bushes, further that the driver of the vehicle that hit him never stopped. Police assistance requested. The driver was sent to the Levey Medical Centre for medical attention and was referred to New Providence for further evaluation, his injuries were not serious. Officers visited the scene and reported that the vehicle sustained extensive damages and was later removed from the scene after measurements were taken. Investigations ongoing. Traffic Offence Report At 7:58pm on Thursday 23rd March 2017 Officers while on mobile patrol in reported an adult male for driving a silver 2007 Honda Accord north along Queens Highway in Gregory Town, while same was unlicensed, uninspected, uninsured for the current year 2017, in addition; for failing to transfer ownership. The driver was informed of the offences and warned of prosecution. Damage Report/Arrest for Damage On Thursday 23rd March, 2017 sometime around 11:00pm, an adult female came into RSPS and reported that sometime around 6:00pm, her boy friend came home and ran her car into the wall, she told him about it and he cursed her out, so she then said to him he can’t sleep in the house; she then went inside and locked the house however he punched his hand through the bedroom glass causing damage to the window, further he went to the kitchen and punched his hand through the door and entered the house and threatened her, she expressed being afraid for her safety and requested police action for the damages. Officers visited the residence of the complainant where they observed the damage to the window and kitchen door. While at the residence saw the suspect and placed him under arrest and cautioned him. He was transported to RSPS for further processing. Arrest reference to Causing Harm At about 11:35am on Monday 19th March, 2017, Officers came in at the G.H.P.S. with an adult male , under arrest reference to Causing Harm. The suspect was processed and charged with Causing Harm contrary to section 135(1); Fighting in a Public Place contrary to section 208(6) both of the penal code chapter 84. Traffic Offence Report At about 5:05pm on Monday 20th March, 2017, Officers reported an adult male for driving a green 2001 Kia Sportage Jeep, north on Queens Highway, Governors Harbour, while the mentioned vehicle was Unlicensed and Uninspected for the year 2017. He was informed of the offences and warned of further prosecution. Assault Reported At about 6:55pm on Monday 20th March, 2017,an adult male contacted the Governor’s Harbour Station and reported that he was just struck with a tire while at a local tire shop by a man he knows who also beat him about the body. Police action was requested. This matter is under active investigation.
National
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
The Eleutheran | Apr/May 2017
35
US Wins Golden Baton at IAAF/BTC World Relays Bahamas 2017 By Lindsay Thompson Bahamas Information Services NASSAU, The Bahamas – For the third consecutive time the United States team captured the coveted Golden Baton to win, overall, the IAAF World Relays Bahamas 2017. The event was held April 2223, 2017 at the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium where thousands gathered to cheer on their favourite country and athlete. A rush of glitter, fireworks and an electrifying performance by a Junkanoo group backed the announcement that the United States had emerged the overall winner. The United States captured five of the nine events, silver in two events and a third in another – totaling 60 points. Jamaica, second with 39 points. Australia was third with 24, edging Poland by just one point. The USA won the men’s 4x800m, and men and women’s 4x400m on the final day. The final day also saw The Bahamas winning its only medal, a gold, in the mixed 4x400m. The only event where the USA failed to score was in the women’s 4x100m, due to its runner slipping and falling. The German team took advantage of that and beat out the next contender the Jamaicans for the gold medal. The overall team ranking and marks: United States, 60; Jamaica, 39, Australia, 24; Poland; 23; Trinidad and Tobago, 17; Kenya, 16; People’s Republic of China, 16; Germany, 16; The Bahamas, 15; France, 13; Botswa-
na, 10; Canada, 8; Great Britain & NI, 8; Barbados, 7; Belarus, 7; Nigeria, 6; Netherlands, 5; Cuba, 4; Mexico, 4; Qatar, 3; Athlete Refugee Team, 2; Brazil, 2; British Virgin Islands, 2; Antigua and Barbuda, 1. The IAAF/BTC World Relays will return to Nassau for its fourth edition in 2019. It was the third time The Bahamas hosted the International Association of Athletics Federation World Relays Bahamas. The IAAF World Relays is the biggest sporting event ever held in The Bahamas and attracts the best athletes in the world, including Olympian medalists, like those from the 2016 Rio Olympics. The following relay races were held for both men and women are: 4x100m, 4×200, 4x400m, and 4x800m. And for the first time a mixed gender 4x400m event was staged. The top eight finishers in the 4x100m and 4x400m for both men and women earned automatic entry for the IAAF World Championships London 2017. A Junior Programme with athletes from The Bahamas was held both days prior to the IAAF World Relays Bahamas 2017. The World Relays, April 22-23, attracted more than 700 athletes from some 50 nations. Seven of those nations – Belarus, Democratic Republic of Congo, Czech Republic, Gambia, Ghana, India, and South Africa – made their IAAF World Relays debut.
Team USA celebrates after winning the IAAF/BTC World Relays Bahamas 2017 at Thomas Robinson Stadium on April 23, 2017 in Nassau, Bahamas.
Team Bahamas, first place, team USA, second place, and team Jamaica, third place celebrate after the Mixed 4x400 Metres Relay Final during the IAAF/BTC World Relays Bahamas 2017 at Thomas Robinson Stadium on April 23, 2017 in Nassau, Bahamas.
Contact The Eleutheran
http://www.smgbusiness.com/contact Email: Services@TheEleutheran.com
Or
Call
422-9350
Team Bahamas, first place, celebrate after the Mixed 4x400 Metres Relay Final during the IAAF/BTC World Relays Bahamas 2017 at Thomas Robinson Stadium on April 23, 2017 in Nassau, Bahamas with Prime Minister Perry G. Christie and Minister of Youth, Sport and Culture, Daniel Johnson.
36
Island â&#x20AC;&#x153;Buzzâ&#x20AC;?
Apr/May 2017
www. EleutheraNews . com
All Eleuthera Primary School Track and Field Championships 2017 By the eleutheran news team The All Eleuthera Primary School Track and Field Championships 2017 which were held on Tuesday and Wednesday, April 4th and 5th this year, saw 14 schools competing for bragging rights as the best team of athletes within the Eleuthera District. Schools competed in two divisions.
Division A had eight schools competing and division B had four schools battling it out. In division A, North Eleuthera primary schol sailed to the top with 259 points after two days of contest. Harbour Island followed closely in second with 224 points and Emma Cooper primary came away in third position with 183 points. Tarpum Bay primary and Governors Harbour primary
P R Track I & M Field A R 2017 Y
tied in fourth position with 169 points each. The remaining schools - Wemyss Bight, Rock Sound, and Samuel Guy Pinder finished with 123, 99, and 54 points respectively. Amongst the Division B schools, Green Castle came out on top with 112 points. Deep creek followed in second with 104 points. James Cistern was in third with 68 points, followed by
Gregory Town with 53 points. The top primary school athletes in the various disciplines of running, jumping, throwing, and leaping went on to compete in the National Primary School Track and Field championships scheduled to be held in New Providence from April 26th to April 28th, 2017 at the Thomas A. Robinson Stadium.
Education Beat
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
| Apr/May 2017 37
Picture This: CEHS Has Largest Group of Honour Roll Award Recipients In Recent Time
Central Eleuthera High School celebrated one of its largest group of honour roll award recipients in recent times, with approximately sixty students attaining a 3.0 grade point average at the school during the 2016 Christmas term. Along with a number of other interventions to improve student performances within the school, the rising star initiative, which recognizes students near the 3.0 goal - encouraging them to push a little further to make the grade was mentioned by administrators as having had a positive effect over time. All high schools throughout the Eleuthera District, both public and private, along with their 12th grade graduation classes, are currently preparing to experience the first ever combined graduation ceremony on island for the National High School Diploma, now set for June 13th, 2017 at the Methodist Church in Jamesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Cistern. (Call your school for further details, as dates are subject to change).
By Malia Carroll
38
Education Beat
Apr/May 2017
www. EleutheraNews . com
Learning through use of Local Heritage: Teachers implement
lessons from Workshop training
First three : Teachers at the LLAPS in North Eleuthera, demonstrating the Placed Based exhibits to a class of eager sixth graders. Others: Tarpum Bay Primary School, hosting a full day of activities based on culture and heritage.
Fresh off of intensive teacher workshops embracing the concept of Place-Based Education (PBE) - (facilitated in August of 2016 by Dr. Jill Reich and Mara Tieken from Bates College in the U.S. in partnership with the Ministry of Education, with all primary and high school teachers in the Eleuthera district participating, and again in February 2017 with a smaller select group of teachers from each school in more intensive sessions meant to prepare them to share the more in depth training with fellow colleagues) - two schools held very different events in April 2017, showcasing how teachers and students have embraced the idea of using local resources as a foundation for the study of language, mathematics, social studies, science and other subjects across the curriculum. On Monday, April 10th the former North Eleuthera primary school held an open house exhibit on campus, showcasing how students have been immersed in their local heritage to enhance the learning experience, by using the recent renaming of the school to the Laura L. Anderson primary school, after a long serving teacher and icon within the community of The Bluff - who also happens to be
the oldest woman in the township at 99 years old - as the subject of multiple areas of study. Johnette Cooper Lockhart, the teacher selected to represent the school at the PBE workshop in February, explained, “It was a strategic meeting, and more in depth, focused on teaching teachers how to format lesson plans to bring out the most in the implementation of PBE in the classroom. We are very focused on making sure we teach the curriculum, and now we use our local resources to springboard that learning initiative. Seeing that our school was recently renamed, it was an easy and excellent idea to connect the learning aspect of recent classroom study to the renaming. We are so fortunate that our patron is still alive, and we just wanted the learning to be an integrated and on-going process with all the disciplines. She is a local hero - all of the children in this school know Mrs. Anderson, and we wanted to connect that with the learning experience in a meaningful and relevant way… It’s not anything new, but it’s another tool in our toolbox to bring about learning.” In the exhibits, created by all the grade levels at the Laura L. Anderson primary school, Mrs. An-
Education Beat
Online at www.EleutheraNews.com
Local Heritage in Learning Continued from pg. 38 derson was used as the central theme, to showcase different content and concepts. A grade six class showcased ‘friendly letters’ written about the renaming, which the teacher said did not have to be forced in any way, because of their familiarity. A grade three mathematics display used Mrs. Anderson’s image in a pictograph, depicting numbers of years she spent in different careers and pastimes during her lifetime, requiring students to answer questions about her experiences and make calculations to come to the correct answers using the pictograph. Another class had created 3D models of the school, with its new name. In another display of a family tree, photographs of Mrs. Ander-
son’s family members, known to the children, were used to depict the names of the different members of a family in Spanish. Each class at the school had the opportunity to view the work of their peers during 15 minute walk-throughs of the exhibit during the morning. During lunchtime, from 12:45pm to 2:30pm, parents and the public were invited to come by to view their children’s work. On the following day, in Tarpum Bay, Tuesday, April 11th, the entire school, hosted a fully immersive PBE day at the basketball court location, with a full celebration of heritage and culture. A variety of stations showcased key tidbits of our heritage and culture in the areas of health and wellness, household,
religion, fashion, transportation, dance and ring play, music and junkanoo, indoor and outdoor games, and of course - food. There were booths with food tasting of local dishes, like fried bread, coconut cake, potato bread, soups and switcher; as well as a medicinal bushes and teas display; teachers were pulled in traditional box carts; a fashion show highlighted trends from the 1950’s forward; games of all kinds - like hopscotch, four squares, and hula hoops were in active use by children on the court; straw work, both raw materials and finished products were on display; old household items from earlier eras were also on exhibit for the youngsters to experience; with Junkanoo rounding out the day’s activities. Students from other schools were also invited to take in all the excitement, and classes of students took turns experiencing the various stations as teachers and other community mem-
| Apr/May 2017 39 bers spoke to them about what was on display. District Superintendent for Education in Eleuthera, Mrs. Helen Simmons Johnson, who sat on the bleachers overlooking the court surrounded by students enjoying the afternoon activities, commented, “The whole thrust of education is to make our students keenly aware of their culture and heritage, and if you want true learning to take place, it has to start right where you are. The thrust with Place-Based Education came about with Bates College who offered to do a workshop with our teachers, which served to remind them that they don’t need to go outside of the community first. Students ought to be aware of what is happening in their community, what is their heritage and to celebrate that. Success with that would then push you forward to what occurs elsewhere, in the Bahamas and in the world.”
Students from Central Eleuthera High School and Rock Sound Primary School joined their hosts in the dynamic learning experience.
Elite Customs Brokers We offer: *Brokerage Services *Trucking *DHL Courier
Tel: 332-3066
Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera