05172024 WEEKEND

Sweet seduction

MIAMI-BASED CABARET SHOW STUNS LOCAL AUDIENCES

PGS 04 +05

The Weekend Fashion Report

New

York Premiere of “Bridgerton” Season 3

With Karin Herig

and

Cara Hunt

SPLIT

Nicola Coughlan

Karin says: “With season 3, Nicola’s character, Penelope Featherington, becomes the new lead of the show, so it’s only fitting that she dressed like a leading lady for the premiere. The custom white gown by Danielle Frankel was a show-stopper (apparently it’s an updated version of the brand’s Daphne gown). The bright red lip and emerald earrings were just the perfect cherry on top.”

Cara says: “Social media was not kind in their reviews of this white peplum style gown, and sadly, I have to agree. I don’t think is the most flattering choice for Nicola. And the fabric just looks like cheap wrinkled bridal satin. She’s the star of the new season, so I was hoping for something more spectacular, and maybe even Regency inspired.”

FAIL

Simone Ashley

Karin says: “I kinda like it, but I don’t love it. I’m not the biggest fan of column dresses; they’re just not that exciting to me. But this Prada creation is saved by being really, really sparkly. The sequined silver fringe layered over the gown just manages to elevate it.”

Cara says: “It’s not that she doesn’t look gorgeous as usual, but this dress just does nothing for her. She looks like she is wearing a bedazzled bath towel. It’s just so basic and shapeless despite the sequins and the fringe at the bottom, and the top just seems to not fit properly.”

HIT

Shonda Rhimes

Karin says: “The queen herself, Bridgerton executive producer Shonda knows how to shine on the red carpet. Normally, I’d be over the lacy/ sheer/doily look, but for some reason, this navy Oscar de la Renta gown works for me. I think it’s the off-the-shoulder design that saves it (that and Shonda’s big smile).”

Cara says: “She looks stunning. The gown fits her well and her hair is laid! Yes, it’s a bit-mother-of-the bride at a wedding, but isn’t that kind of what she is in this case? This show is her baby and she’s seeing her characters off on new romantic adventures. She looks extremely happy, downright delighted, as well.”

FAIL

Claudia Jessie

Karin says: “OK, first the good: the hair. I love it! It’s fabulous. Now on to the Stella McCartney suit...it looks a bit like a striped pyjama, to be quite honest. But that’s not the worst. Who decided neon green satin platform shoes would look good with this ensemble? But actually, I guess, it’s almost something her character Eloise Bridgerton would wear to shock polite society.”

Cara says: “She looks cute. but boring. I guess she added the green shoes to be creative, but they just end up being an eyesore. I feel like she needed a pop of green somewhere else to balance it out and make the look more cohesive rather than it just being a case of, ‘Oh, these are the only shoes I had’.”

SPLIT

Naturi Naughton

Karin says: “The singersongwriter pulled out all the stops for this premiere. Unfortunately, her style of dress looks to be from a totally different century than Bridgerton’s (albeit often wildly inaccurate) interpretation of the Regency era. I really like the bright magenta, but there are simply too many ruffles, too many tiers going on.”

Cara says: “I actually love this. Yes, it’s so poufy and she looks like Little Bo Beep in technicolour, but I think it’s a great look and a great nod to Queen’s Charlotte bustier ball gowns. It looks like she had a blast selecting and donning this gown for the premiere.”

(Photos

The ‘soultry’ sounds of Philip Kemp-Bowe

By ALESHA CADET | Tribune Features Writer | acadet@tribunemedia.net

To say music runs in Philip Kemp-Bowe’s blood may be understatement. The performer was surrounded by professional singers growing up and was mentored by local greats during adulthood. Today, he is ready to join their ranks. To this end, he has reinvented himself as a male vocalist and now goes by the stage name ‘Soultry’.

“I was born into a musical family. My grandfather was Johnny Kemp, Sr, who was a musician in the prime of his life during the days of the Cat & Fiddle (Nightclub). My mother, Minerva KempMcIntosh, was the ‘songbird’ of Grand Bahama and sang at almost every major occasion on the island, and Johnny Kemp, Jr, the Grammy0nominated singer of the popular song ‘Just Got Paid’ is my uncle. I have been performing from I was a little boy and always knew I was meant for the stage,” he told Tribune Weekend.

Over the years, Philip has worked with noted musicians like the acclaimed Lee Callendar, at Café Martinique. He has also had gigs at venues like Sandals Royal Bahamian, the Marley Resort and has had the opportunity to perform at a few Bahamian Independence concerts.

“My sister Anja Bowe, the lead vocalist for the Higher Level band, and I have also performed together,” he said.

“Most recently I have been performing at Margaritaville on occasions, and after participating at a talent show hosted by the SpotLight Lounge and finishing as a finalist and all the positive feedback I got from the judges, I decided to reinvent myself as a male vocalist, and Soultry was born.”

Giving an explanation for the stage name, he said: “My genre is a mix of soulful and sultry, hence the name Soultry. I have always admired artists who were vocally strong and great performers: Michael Jackson, Usher and Chris Brown for their smooth moves, but Maxwell has caught my attention in recent months. I also like the legends like Luther Vandross, Freddie Jackson and some other ‘ole school’ artists.”

Philip said the most musically influential people in his life have been his uncle Johnny and his mother, especially during his childhood.

In recent years, he said, Naomi Taylor, Clinton Crawford and Ralph Munnings from the ViceVersa band have had a great influence on him. He said they have been extremely supportive and have provided positive feedback in helping him to improve his stage presence.

“Freddie Munnings, Jr, has also been very supportive. And without saying, Lee Callendar was more than a mentor and had an incredible influence on my musical career,” he said.

“I was born into a musical family. My grandfather was Johnny Kemp, Sr, who was a musician in the prime of his life during the days of the Cat & Fiddle (Nightclub). My mother, Minerva Kemp-McIntosh, was the ‘songbird’ of Grand Bahama and sang at almost every major occasion on the island, and Johnny Kemp, Jr, the Grammy0nominated singer of the popular song ‘Just Got Paid’ is my uncle. I have been performing from I was a little boy and always knew I was meant for the stage.”

Philip said his ultimate goal is perform gigs at least five days a week.

“I am also in the process of forming a group and I don’t want to pre-empt anything, but will definitely share the details once that project is off the ground,” he added.

On Thursdays, Philip can be found performing at venues like Sushi Rokkan in the Old Fort Bay Plaza, and on the weekends, he is at the Kyma Seafood Grill in One West Plaza. Mondays he performs to a tourist audience at a time-share resort on Cable Beach. And he considers the SpotLight Lounge his second home. Philip is also available for private events and personal serenading.

Bruce Nottage

A beer brewer by passion and by pen name, this new author has released a fantastical novel that not only celebrates and promotes famous sites throughout New Providence, but also explores deeper themes like the loss of friendship. He tells Cara Hunt how he hopes this book will inspire tourists to explore deeper into Nassau and also spark an interest in the re-development of the Dowdeswell Street area.

Bruce Nottage has woven a colourful and fantastical, yet realistic, picture of the Dowdeswell Street area in his new novel, “Rigged Brewery Tales”, which he hopes could play a role in the redevelopment of the neighbourhood. Written under his pen name “Bruce Brewer”, the book is steeped in Bahamian ambience.

The main character is called Brewer and he works at Rip Ty’d Brewery. He befriends Jacob, a sailor on the Freedom, one of the ships that frequents the Bahamas. What follows is an intriguing tale of friendship, loss, romance and stolen diamonds.

According to the publisher, the book is packed “with an exceptional amount of intrigue and thought-provoking concepts couched in an authentic Bahamian experience… thrill, suspense and drama are also added to the mix.”

In the story, Brewer compares his friendship to Jacob to the Queen song “Bohemian Rhapsody” as something that starts off quietly and then becomes explosive at the end.

The novel also ties in several themes, such as having an anchor both in the nautical sense and as a source to stabilise toxic relationships, as well as the way a hurricane can be both an actual storm and a flurry of emotions.

It also discusses steering currents, both in the ocean and in life.

But ultimately, Bruce said the book is about loss.

“It’s about the spontaneous loss of a friendship which can sometimes be felt greater than death, because of the spontaneity and absence of closure,” he told Tribune Weekend.

The central themes of the book are closely intertwined with Bruce’s own life in recent years.

“I was the 50 percent owner of the Rip Ty’d Brewery. I started doing home brewery back in 2017/18,” he explained.

“I was at a liquor store one day and I was startled at the beer prices and I just thought, ‘You know, I can do this myself’, and that is how I got started in the brewery business.

Since his wife was against the idea of him turning their home into a brewery, he decided to partner with Christina Albury to create a space to sell beer commercially on Dowdeswell Street under the name Rip Ty’d, which is inspired by the term riptide; a strong ocean current.

The timing of the venture may not have been the greatest as it opened right at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We had beer in the fermentors when everything got locked down and we had to have special permission to go and check on them,” said Bruce.

Seeing the area so quiet during that time period, however, was part of the inspiration behind the new book.

“On a superficial level the book can be about destination tourism - ‘Get the vibe before you arrive’,” he explained. “Tourists can download the book or audiobook and build a sense of nostalgia around a potential vacation even before they arrive and then upon arrival. They can relive the drama of the novel,” he said.

Bruce said he would love to see the story inspire an interest in the areas located on what he calls the “Mermaid Walk” in the book.

The area begins at the Sir Sidney Bridge and heads west, with a variety of stops

along the way, including at St Matthew’s Church, Bay Street, the Rum Factory, the Bay Street Marina, Green Parrot Bar & Grill, Hillside House, Cabbage Beach, Graycliff/John Watling’s Distillery, Junkanoo Beach, the Water Tower and the Queen’s Staircase.

Bruce said he hopes the book can serve as inspiration for tourists to visit these spots, many of them which are historically significant.

“I would love for them to read the book and then come and visit the Mermaid Walk and visit the sites along the way. It would be great for a walking tour or a small play or show.”

The book is available at Rip Ty’d Brewery on the corner of Dowdeswell and Armstrong Streets. It is also available online and as an audiobook on Amazon, Kobo and Apple.

this weekend in history

May 17

• In 1792, 24 businessmen meet on what is now Wall Street in New York City. They take the initial steps to forming the New York Stock Exchange when they sign the Buttonwood Agreement. Legend has it that the signing took place under a buttonwood tree where their earliest transactions had occurred.

• In 1900, American author L Frank Baum’s publishes “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”. The

“I was at a liquor store one day and I was startled at the beer prices and I just thought, ‘You know, I can do this myself’, and that is how I got started in the brewery business.”

fantastical tale immediately becomes a classic of children’s literature and in the 1939 it is made into the beloved musical film with Judy Garland.

May 18

• In 1642, the city of Montreal in Quebec, Canada, is founded by Paul de Chomedey, sieur (lord) de Maisonneuve. VilleMarie (the name for the settlement that appeared in all official documents until 1705) was founded on the southern shore of Montreal island, with Maisonneuve as its first governor. The settlement included a chapel and a hospital, under the command of Jeanne Mance. It quickly became a centre for fur trade and a base for further exploration.

• In 1980, at 8.32am, following

an earthquake, Mount St Helens in Washington state erupts in one of the greatest volcanic explosions ever recorded in North America. A total of 57 people are killed and some 210 square miles of wilderness are destroyed. Historically, Native Americans called the

mountain “Louwala-Clough”, or “the Smoking Mountain”.

May 19

• In 1536, Anne Boleyn, second wife of King Henry VIII of England and mother of the future Elizabeth I, is beheaded. She was executed on what modern historians believe to be trumped-up charges of adultery, incest and conspiracy against the king. She was believed to have been 29 and 35 years old.

• In 1935, “Lawrence of Arabia” dies. British archaeological scholar, military strategist, and author TE Lawrence, whose life inspired the epic “Lawrence of Arabia” movie in 1962, dies as a retired Royal Air Force mechanic living under an assumed name following a motorcycle accident. He was 46.

MOUNT St Helens erupts

Best described as a number crossword, the task in Kakuro is to fill all of the empty squares, using numbers 1 to 9, so the sum of each horizontal block equals the number to its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the number on its top. No number may be used in the same block more than once. The difficulty level of the Conceptis Kakuro increases from Monday to Sunday.

Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so the each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once. The difficulty level of the Sudoku increases from Monday to Sunday

N A I I S O T O

FIND where the fleet of ships shown is hidden in the grid. The numbers to the right of and below the grid indicate how many of the squares in that row are filled in with ships or parts of ships. The ships do not touch each other, even diagonally. Some squares have been filled in to start you off.

FIND where the fleet of ships shown is hidden in the grid. The numbers to the right of and below the grid indicate how many of the squares in that row are filled in with ships or parts of ships. The ships do not touch each other, even diagonally. Some squares have been filled in to start you off.

16 A true chap manufactures canopy (9)

17 I question European after fight in small shop (8)

19 Pub included by the radical slimmer (7)

21 Performer tears it accidentally (7)

HOW many words of four letters or more can you make from the letters shown here?

ACROSS 1 Comedian, 5 Carpet, 10

13 Wildlife, 15 Exits, 18 Leech, 20 Totality, track, 27 Mulish, 28 Princess. DOWN

6 Anemone, 7 Parka, 8 Tortoise, 9 Ornament, 19 Heiress, 21 Lighten, 22 Shakes, 24

ACROSS: 1

18

19

CHRISTmAS £1,000

5

21

23

22 Having a very high temperature, the rod being replaced (3-3)

24 Royal with fish staggers (5)

In making a word, each letter may be used once only. Each must contain the centre letter and there must be at least one nine-letter word. No plurals. Verb forms ending in “s” permitted.

SmALL CROSSWORD

SmALL CROSSWORD

SmALL CROSSWORD

SmALL CROSSWORD

Invention, design (8)

Respond (5)

FIND where the fleet of ships shown is hidden in the grid. The numbers to the right of and below the grid indicate how many of the squares in that row are filled in with ships or parts of ships. The ships do not touch each other, even diagonally. Some squares have been filled in to start you off.

SmALL CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Invention, design (8)

6 Pass the tongue over (4)

8 Respond (5)

11 Became smaller (6)

HOW many words of four letters or more can you make from the letters shown here? In making a word, each letter may be used once only. Each must contain the centre letter and there must be at least one nine-letter word. No plurals. Verb forms ending in “s” permitted.

Became smaller (6)

Narrow aperture (4)

TODAY’S TARGET

Good 24; very good 36; excellent 47 (or more). Solution next Saturday.

LAST SATURDAY’S SOLUTION

*Calls cost

12 Narrow aperture (4) 14 Employ (3) 15 Female monarch (5) 16 Writing fluid (3) 17 Fall (4)

today’s solution call: 0907 181 2583

19 Rarely (6)

SATURDAY’S SOLUTION

SATURDAY’S SOLUTION

20 Confidential speech (5)

21 If not, then (4)

22 Surprised (8)

1 Overcome, 6 Pays, 8 Route, 11 Medium, 12 Reds, 14 Elf, 15 Stick, 16 Tie, 17 Ever, 19 Slides, 20 Nails, 21 Kite, 22 Examined. DOWN 1 Operating, 2 Eyed, 3 Criticism, 4 Mum, 5 Performed, 7 America, 9 Ounce, 10 Tallest, 13 Stall, 18 Vein, 19 Six.

1 Overcome, 6 Pays, 8 Route, 11 Medium, 12 Reds, 14 Elf, 15 Stick, 16 Tie, 17 Ever, 19 Slides, 20 Nails, 21 Kite, 22 Examined. DOWN 1 Operating, 2 Eyed, 3 Criticism, 4 Mum, 5 Performed, 7 America, 9 Ounce, 10 Tallest, 13 Stall, 18 Vein, 19 Six.

1 Genre of music (9)

2 Reflection of sound (4)

3 All revert (anag.) (9)

4 Tree that produces acorns (3)

5 Tried (9)

minute plus your telephone company’s network access charge.

LAST SATURDAY’S SOLUTION

ACROSS 1 Overcome, 6 Pays, 8 Route, 11 Medium, 12 Reds, 14 Elf, 15 Stick, 16 Tie, 17 Ever, 19 Slides, 20 Nails, 21 Kite, 22 Examined. DOWN 1 Operating, 2 Eyed, 3 Criticism, 4 Mum, 5 Performed, 7 America, 9 Ounce, 10 Tallest, 13 Stall, 18 Vein, 19 Six. For today’s solution call: 0907 181 2583

7 The Hebrides, for example (7)

9 Brought to a close (5) 10 Traditions (7)

Tweaked a radio’s settings (5)

Tumble (4)

Take a chair (3)

of sound (4) 3 All revert (anag.) (9) 4 Tree that produces acorns (3) 5 Tried (9) 7 The Hebrides, for example (7) 9 Brought to a close (5) 10 Traditions (7) 13 Tweaked a radio’s settings (5)

Tumble (4)

Take a chair (3)

aport appoint APPORTION appro apron atop inapt option orpin pain paint pair pant panto part patio patron piano pint pinta pinto pion piton point poop poor porn porno port portion potion print proa pronto prop proton rapt tapir topi trap trip troop

Call 0907 181 2586 for today’s Target solution *Calls cost 80p per minute plus your telephone company’s network access charge. All puzzles use The Chambers Dictionary

HOW many words of four letters or more can you make from the letters shown here?

31

25 Some brash entrepreneur, pale (5)

33

CAN you crack the Alphabeater? It’s

mental muscles to the

Weekly Crusader Crossword Winner

24 – 30 December: A King, Fowey, Cornwall. Please allow 30 days for prizes to arrive

In making a word, each letter may be used once only. Each must contain the centre letter and there must be at least one nine-letter word. No plurals. Verb forms ending in “s” permitted.

TODAY’S TARGET

Good 24; very good 36; excellent 47 (or more). Solution next Saturday.

TODAY’S TARGET Good 24; very good 36; excellent 47 (or more). Solution next Saturday.

CAN you crack the Alphabeater? It’s a tough twist on our popular Alphapuzzle, mental muscles to the limit. Each grid number below represents a letter every letter of the alphabet is used. But now you have to complete the given black squares below the main grid to start.

LAST SATURDAY’S SOLUTION

To add to the fiendish fun, Alphabeater is ‘rotationally symmetrical’. you turn the page upside

LAST SATURDAY’S SOLUTION

aport appoint APPORTION appro apron atop inapt option orpin pain paint pair pant panto part patio patron piano pint pinta pinto pion piton point poop poor porn porno port portion potion print proa pronto prop proton rapt tapir topi trap trip troop

can help identify other black

aport appoint APPORTION appro apron atop inapt option orpin pain paint pair pant panto part patio patron piano pint pinta pinto pion piton point poop poor porn porno port portion potion print proa pronto prop proton rapt tapir topi trap trip troop

but the

Call

Brassica,

He made all things,

Ricin,

Desert,

Rheum,

Allheal,

James Caan,

Gilgamesh, 35 Father's house will give, 44 Tenno, 45

Leisurely, 55 Asses, 57 Contingent, 66/30 Tracee Ellis Ross, 69 Elara, 71 praise to thee, 75 Marriner. DOWN:

Enter, 7 Amen, 8 Euphrosyne, 9 Lakshmi, 13 Capsicum, 14 Flame, 22 Plea, 25 Cos, 31/40 Joe Pesci, 32 Croesus, 33 Gravely, 38 Gropius, 41 Saint, 43 Abstain, 52 Iraq, 53 Urn, 54 Eternity, 56 Steradian, 62 Creator, 63/20 Heather Graham, HIDDEN SOLUTION: The Holly and

pageants

The Wright choice - Beauty queen clinches title after four attempts at Miss Bahamas Universe crown

By JEFFARAH GIBSON | Tribune Features Writer | jgibson@tribunemedia.net

THEY say third time’s the charm, but for newly crowned Miss Bahamas Universe Selvinique Wright, the fourth time sealed the deal.

Selvinique, representing Andros with a platform of ‘Women’s Health’, came out on top during the beauty pageant’s finale last Sunday at Atlantis Paradise Island after entering the competition on four separate occasions. She is now determined to fight as hard as she can to go on to win the international Miss Universe title.

“I’ve had the passion to participate in the Miss Universe Bahamas pageant not once, not twice, but four times. And let’s not forget my previous triumphs at Miss Teen Bahamas. But I didn’t stop there. In 2016, I took on the world stage at Miss Grand International, one of the most prestigious pageants in the world. And guess what, I didn’t just make it to the top 10, I also walked away with the title of overall swimsuit winner. Each of these moments were preparing me for the grandest stage of them all,” she told Tribune Weekend.

For 10 weeks, this year’s 10 contestants engaged in professional and personal development events and activities that sought to give them polish in various areas.

The finale was a night of glitz and glamour held under the patronage of Marisa Mason D Smith, an executive member of the National Women’s Advisory Council, president of the Women’s Ministry at Christian Life Church, who has served four twoyear terms as president of Zonta Club of New Providence.

Selvinique will represent the Bahamas in Mexico at the 73rd Miss Universe competition later this year. When her name was called as the winner on the night, Selvinique said she felt immense gratitude as she reflected on how she had gotten to this point in her journey.

Selvinique said she intends on wearing the crown with pride and a spirit of patriotism.

“Wearing this crown means so much to me. For nearly a decade, I’ve been dreaming of gracing the stage at Miss Universe. I have worked tirelessly towards this goal, driven by a simple yet powerful motivation - a word on the inside of me and a desire to grace the stage showcasing the beauty of the Bahamas. Now, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to use this platform to bring greater awareness to a cause that is close to my heart - women’s health. With this as my focus, I am confident that I can make a lasting impact, unite through education and awareness, and leave behind a powerful legacy,” she said.

Now after all the hard work preparing for the pageant, Selvinique is ready to celebrate her victory.

“I’ve been celebrating in so many different ways from the very moment my name was called. Apart from my praise and worship celebration that will be hosted by my amazing spiritual family at Impact Kingdom Christian Centre, I am also a member of several cultural contingents who have arranged a series of celebratory activities on my behalf. The support of my family and friends has been nothing short of extraordinary, and we certainly plan to celebrate this victory in grand style,” she said.

“After the celebrations conclude, I’ll be focused on perfecting my craft. The mindset shifts to Miss Universe (in Mexico).”

“With the favour of God and the unwavering support along the way, I was reminded that this win was a team effort. I have accomplished the first step towards my lifelong dream.

This achievement has instilled a renewed sense of hope and inspiration in me, and I am excited to continue moving forward with faith and determination,” she said.

“I am not delusional or a mere dreamer; I have my eyes set on the Miss Universe crown, and I am determined to claim it. I know that to get to the crown I’ve got to put up the fight of a lifetime. Luckily, I was born to for this. I am ready to fight with everything I’ve got, as I believe I have what it takes to be the next Miss Universe.”

SELVINIQUE Wright is crowned Miss Bahamas Universe 2024 at Atlantis Paradise Island last Sunday.

A cabaret to remember!

Locals flock to Faena Theatre's luxurious show at Baha Mar

By ALESHA CADET | Tribune Features Writer | acadet@tribunemedia.net

Local turnout for the second appearance of the acclaimed Faena Theatre’s cabaret experience at SLS Baha Mar was a pleasant surprise for organisers.

The “Séduire Cabaret: Soirée of Seduction” was performed on two nights last weekend at BOND, the resort’s premiere nightlife destination.

For a second time, the talented troupe out of Miami, Florida, offered a visually stunning cabaret and burlusque show featuring sizzling live music, mesmerising fire displays, sultry dance routines, entrancing aerial acts, and an array of other variety performances. The act was inspired the raw energy and beauty of the Bahamas.

“We were actually surprised at how many more locals came and participated in the show. Last year we had a lot of guests, and Bahamians were questioning what exactly is this show; what is it all about? I mean, we’ve had cabarets in the Bahamas years ago but we haven’t had them in recent times,” said Norman Lightbourne, assistant director of Marketing at SLS Baha Mar.

He believes after people heard about the success of year’s “Luxuria” cabaret they weren’t going to let a second chance to catch a Faena Theatre production pass them by.

“We received a lot more interest this year from locals and we’re very pleased about that. Last year’s show left big shoes to be filled, but with Séduire, we added new elements. We had aerial dancers in this show this year, as well as the great singing, the great dancing and the comedic aspects that people are used to,” said Norman.

One of the clear highlights of the show, he said, was the emcee, Sa’Rayah - a multifaceted vocalist, recording artist and actress who has starred in musicals like “Chicago”.

Sa’Rayah led a dazzling group of 20 performers to create an evening of irresistible allure. Throughout her career, Sa’Rayah has shared the stage with big-name artists such as the legendary Stevie Wonder, Celine Dión, Ariana Grande, and Enrique Iglesias. Organisers were thrilled to have her play an integral role in the new show.

“She was definitely the star. Sa’Rayah has a beautiful singing voice, so she really captivated the audience. And it really was a good show where everyone was able to hear familiar songs they knew, and sung along, in some cases in new arrangements. So the crowd really enjoyed that,” said Norman.

Following the first night’s performance, Sa’Rayah posted on social media: “Happy Sabbath

from this Bahama Mama. Things are going well out here. I had my opening show yesterday at SLS Baha Mar with Faena and it went crazy.”

Speaking to audience members following the show, Norman said the feedback was really good.

“We were very interested in hearing (feedback) as soon as the shows ended each evening. We engaged (with people) and asked questions about how they enjoyed it. We found that the guests,

both local and international, thoroughly enjoyed themselves and they were so excited to see something like this,” he said.

“For the hotel guests, to be able to come on vacation and have access to a show like this is amazing. And for locals, they looked at it as, ‘Oh, I would’ve had to travel to places like New York City or Las Vegas to experience a show like Séduire’, but they were able to get it right at home. They were really engulfed

in it, taking part, dancing, and it was really good to see our people experiencing something like this.”

Going forward into the Summer season, Norman said there are several different playful yet sophisticated entertainment events planned to immerse guests in Bahamian culture - including a soca event at the Privilege Pool for May 16 -17 and a Bahamian Fish Fry during the American Independence Day weekend on Saturday, July 13.

Rain dance

Good day, gardeners. Well, we’re still waiting on the rain. Dare I say it looks as if some is on the way as I write this? Here’s to hoping it brings some relief to the garden and the water table.

When I design a landscape, I don’t even consider installing irrigation. My methods tend to vary greatly from the average designer and installer. I see no sense in throwing water everywhere to keep lawn grass green or to keep water thirsty plants from wilting in the garden, unless of course it’s being grown for a food source.

I avoid these negligible issues through water wise design and material selection. Plant material properly placed follows the same three tenets as in real estate: location, location, location. The right plant in the right place and irrigation becomes a moot point. High water demand plants usually get placed in some part or full shade, preferably in a dip in the land such as a low spot, and material with delicate foliage that wilts easily too. I have no reason to instal irrigation in my designs, as the placement of material is thoroughly planned out to give the right location to the right material.

The quality and consistency of the soil is key to a successful design, without the wasted water. Develop a healthy soil full of microbial life, good structure for water holding and drainage, and bam, Bob’s your uncle. Trees that many might remove (I too often witness trees unnecessarily and to no benefit being removed) to suit their design visions are kept in my designs, pruned preventatively and to allow increased airflow and specifically measured light penetration to suit not only the plants underneath the canopy, but the health of the trees as well.

Not to say I don’t remove trees, I do. Darwin had things quite right to suit my landscape philosophy, in that I am more than happy to cull the weaklings and encourage the strongest among them. Trees are essential to many life forms but are also highly beneficial in a water wise landscape. If I find a recently install plant that is wilting or unhappy in my designs, nine times out of 10, it is because the soil wasn’t prepared to the standard

that I expect and require. Remember that all that we see above ground is a direct reflection of what is going on below ground. Without a healthy root structure, there is a lack of healthy growth of the foliage, flowers, or fruits of a plant. Focus on the ground and far less worry need be given to the

aesthetics or performance of the visible parts of any material used. The secret is in the soil!

So, rain or no rain, that is the question. For my style of design, it doesn’t really matter, although it does help, granted. Drought is a real problem, and so I continue to improve my designs through water wise and specific selections and placement, location, of the materials being used. Water also benefits all of the creatures that are equal parts of the cycle of life as all else. Birds, beneficial insects, butterflies, bees, and the crawlers, the amphibians and the reptiles all need water too. I enjoy the use of a water catchment, a low spot where water might collect, a pond or a bird bath, in the garden. So does all other life. I imagine that the frogs will throw a party if and

when we get some rain. Frogs help to keep the garden healthy and clean, and they reduce the number of insects that are seen as pests to some, mosquitoes for example. Selection of suitable material, the right location, and sufficient soil preparation help to avoid issues of not enough or too much water. Here’s to all of those doing the rain dance, even though my designs aren’t reliant on it, it always helps. Is any water being wasted on your garden? As always, I wish you happy gardening.

• Adam Boorman is the nursery manager at Fox Hill Nursery on Bernard Road. You can contact him with any questions you may have, or topics you would like to see discussed, at gardening242@gmail. com.

Bahamian host of inspiring “JourneyTV” receives international award

By JEFFARAH GIBSON | Tribune Features Writer | jgibson@tribunemedia.net

WHEN Earlene

Cartwright started JourneyTV it was her intention to share the trials and triumphs of average people who had a story to tell to inspire and comfort viewers.

The show gained a lot of traction shortly after it’s launch and viewership increased rapidly.

As a result of the show’s content and the attention has gained since its launch five years ago, Earlene last week received the Best TV Show Host Award at the International Christian Film and Music Festival 2024 held in Orlando, Florida.

The awards show was attended by well-known personalities like actor Kevin Sorbo of “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys” fame.

“JourneyTV was birthed out of a blog called ‘Footprints’,” explained Earlene. “Six months after launching, we invited guest writers from the blog to share their life’s journeys on camera and these interviews were released on YouTube as a web series. Four months later we were picked up by REV Media and aired on OurTV. Our show ranked second in its competitive category while on OurTV. JourneyTV was officially launched in March of 2020, at the start of the COVID pandemic,” she told Tribune Weekend.

JourneyTV seeks to tell the life stories of everyday people who have encountered great adversity but have turned their pain into passion and purpose.

The show has been aired in the Bahamas, across the Caribbean, and in the New York Tri-state area of the US via REV Media, ZNS Bahamas, and Tempo Networks, and is now streaming globally thanks to a partnership with 24 Flix.

JourneyTV can now be viewed on Amazon, Roku, Tizen & Google Play.

Earlene believes the key to the show’s success is the fact that it is an inspirational and motivational resource that people find beneficial.

“The result of increased awareness, human understanding and connection presented by our content brings positive outcomes for families,

and now an international award means the work must continue for Earlene and her team.

“It is an amazing accomplishment for our platform and for me the host, for our work to be recognised on this level by producers, directors and media experts around the world that would have been a part of this film festival and on the judging panel,” she said.

“We received great feedback on our content and everyone was thoroughly impressed by the high quality visually and the impact the show carries. This is very significant for us as it sets the tone and presents a springboard to what is next for JourneyTV. Our focus, however, is always about spreading more love, light, hope and healing to this world through these life-changing stories that are told.”

Earlene first stepped onto the media scene in 2018. She considers it a privilege to live out her purpose daily in this industry.

work environments, civic and community groups and the community at large. JourneyTV also increases the flow of information around healing and navigating through life’s challenges, which opens the door to new possibilities leading and encouraging people to live healthier, happier and more productive lives,” she said.

Having the show’s unique content validated by its increasing viewership

“I’ve assisted others with finding their own purpose through coaching and speaking. I believe that I am used to create opportunities for others to use their talents and gifts and also to assist them in discovering their own true purpose,” she said.

Successfully producing her own talk show has led Earlene to work with other notable producers and directors both locally and internationally, to assist them in executing their own media projects.

EARLENE Cartwright poses with her Best TV Show Host Award at the International Christian Film and Music Festival.

Literary lives - Roger Bannister (1929-2018)

The man who ran the ‘Miracle Mile’

Sir Christopher Ondaatje remembers the English neurologist and middledistance athlete who ran the first sub-4-minute mile.

“Whether we athletes liked it or not, the 4-minute mile had become rather like an Everest: a challenge to the human spirit, it was a barrier that seemed to defy all attempts to break it, an irksome reminder that man’s striving might be in vain.”

-Roger Bannister

Roger Bannister was born on March 23, 1929, in Harrow, London. His parents Ralph and Alice were both from working-class families in Lancashire. Ralph had moved to London at the age of fifteen to work in the Civil Service, and met Alice on a trip home. They married in 1925 and had a daughter, Joyce, before Roger was born.

The Bannister family moved to Bath soon after World War II broke out and Bannister’s father was relocated there. Roger went to the City of Bath Boys’ School and won the junior cross-country cup three consecutive times. During a bombing raid on Bath, the family house was severely damaged –when the Bannisters sheltered in the basement.

The family returned to London in 1944 and Roger went to University College School. After a year he applied to Exeter College, Oxford and was accepted for a three-year degree in medicine.

Bannister started his running career at Oxford in the autumn of 1946 at the age of seventeen. He was inspired by the British runner Sydney Wooderson, who set the mile record but saw it broken by the Swedish runners Arne Andersson and Gunder Hägg. Wooderson eventually set a British record of 4.04 minutes in Gothenburg, Sweden on September 9, 1945.

Bannister had never worn running spikes or run on a track. His training was extremely light, amounting to only three weekly half-hour training sessions, but he showed potential by running a mile in 4:24.6, and was even selected as a 1948 Olympic possibility, but he declined knowing that he was not nearly ready to run at that level. Instead he set his sights on the 1952 Olympics in Helsinki, Finland.

He ran several 880 yard races and won many mile races in 1949 with a time of 4:11. Then after a six weeks period with no training he came in third at the White City in 4:14.2. Over the years 1950 to 1952 Bannister improved, with more attention to training, in both the half mile and mile races. He lost to the great Jamaican runner Arthur Wint

in the AAA 880 at the White City in 1:52.1 and improved that time to 1:50.7 at the 800 metres in the European Championships, coming in third.

Clearly he had to increase his training and in 1951 he ran 4:08.3 in the Penn Relays, and won a mile race on 14 July 1951 in 4:07 at the AAA Championships at the White City, making a meet record and beating the defending champion Bill Nankeville. But he also lost races – to Andrija Otenhajmer in Belgrade – that August in the 1500 metres where he came second in 3:48.4. He no longer seemed invincible.

From 1951, Bannister trained at the Paddington Recreation Ground in Maida Vale. He was at the time a medical student at the nearby St. Mary’s Hospital. He avoided racing after the 1951 season until late in 1952, saving his energy for the 1952 Olympics in Helsinki. Ten days before the Olympic trial he ran a ¾ mile trial in 2:52.9 and felt confident that he was ready for the Olympics. However, his confidence soon dissipated as it was announced that there would be semi-finals for the 1500 metres (equal to 0.932 miles) at the Olympics – which favoured runners with deeper more stringent training regimens than his. He qualified for the final but felt blown and unhappy.

In a dramatic final Josy Barthel of Luxembourg prevailed in an Olympic record 3:45.28. Bannister

finished fourth, disappointed, but breaking the British record 3:46.30 in the process.

Bannister almost gave up running after his failure at the 1952 Olympic Games. He spent two months deciding whether to continue or not. He didn’t give up, but set himself a new goal of being the first man to run a mile in under four minutes. He intensified his training. On May 2, 1953, paced by Chris Chataway – a fellow Oxford student and middle-distance runner – Bannister ran a mile in 4:03.6, shortening Sydney Wooderson’s 1945 mile record.

“This race made me realise that the four-minute mile was not out of reach.”

-Roger Bannister

On June 29, 1953, a mile race was inserted into the Surrey schools athletic meeting. Paced by the Australian runner Don Macmillan and Chris Brasher, Bannister finished the race in 4:02 – but British officials refused to allow this time to be an official British record.

“My feeling as I look back is one of great relief that I did not run a four-minute mile under such artificial circumstances.”

-Roger Bannister

There were seven men entered in the race. One arrived as a spectator and didn’t realise he was supposed to run. Thus the field was reduced to six.

Other runners also came close. Wes Santee, the American, ran 4:02.4 on June 5, 1953; and Australian John Landy ran 4:02.0 at the end of the year. Landy came close several more times: 4:02.4 in Melbourne on 21 February 1954; 4:02.6 on February 23, 1954; and 4:02.6 again on April 19, 1954.

The historic event took place on May 6, 1954, during a track meet between British AAA and Oxford University at Iffley Road Track in Oxford, watched by about three thousand spectators. Winds were gusting as high as twenty-five miles an hour – much too high for an attempt to break a mile record. However, the winds dropped just before the race and Bannister did run.

The pace setters were the same as in his 1953 attempts: Christopher Chataway (the future Commonwealth Games gold medallist), and Chris Brasher (the future Olympic gold medallist). The race was broadcast by BBC Radio, and commented by 1924 Olympic 100 metre champion Harold Abrahams. Bannister started that day at a hospital in London, sharpening his racing spikes, and rubbed graphite on them so that they would not pick up too much cinder ash from the track. He took a mid-morning train from Paddington in London to Oxford, nervous about the blustery rain and wind conditions.

The race went off as scheduled at exactly 6pm. Chris Brasher and Bannister immediately went to the front of the pack. Brasher led the first lap on 58 seconds and the second (half mile) in 1:58. Bannister was immediately behind, and Chris Chataway moved to the front after the second lap and maintained the pace until the final lap bell with a time of 3:01. He continued his lead around the first turn with about 275 yards, or half a lap to go. Bannister exploded with his finishing kick, running the last lap in under 59 seconds.

The stadium announcer was Norris McWhirter, who went on to publish the Guinness Book of Records – together with his twin brother Ross. He intentionally delayed his announcement of Bannister’s race time for as long as possible.

“Ladies and gentlemen, here is the result of event nine, the mile: first, number forty-one, R.G. Bannister, Amateur Athletic Association and formerly of Exeter and Merton College, Oxford, with a time which is a new meeting and track record, and which – subject to ratification – will be a new English Native, British National, All-Comers, European, British Empire and World Record. The time was three ….”

The roar of the crowd drowned out the rest of the announcement. Bannister’s time was 3 minutes, 59.4 seconds.

“Doctors and scientists said breaking the four-minute mile was impossible, that one would die in the attempt. Thus, when I got up from the track after collapsing at the finish line, I figured I was dead.”

-Roger Bannister

Just forty-six days later, on June 21, 1954, John Landy broke Bannister’s record in Turku, Finland, with a time of 3 minutes, 57.9 seconds, which the IAAF ratified. The two great runners met on August 7 at the 1954 British Empire and Commonwealth Games in Vancouver, in what was billed as “The Miracle Mile”. Bannister won in 3 minutes, 58.8 seconds, passing Landy in the final straight when Landy looked over his left shoulder to gauge Bannister’s position.

Bannister went on that season to win the socalled metric mile 1500 metres at the European Championships in Bern, Switzerland on August 29 with a record time of 3 minutes, 43.8 seconds.

Bannister retired from athletics in late 1954 to concentrate on his work as a junior doctor, and then pursue a career in neurology. He married the Swedish artist Moyra Elver Jacobsson and had four children. He became the first chairman of the Sports Council (later called Sport England) and was knighted for this service in 1975. He always said he was more proud of his contribution to medicine than his running career.

“I wanted to be a neurologist. That seemed to me the most difficult, most intriguing, and the most important aspect of medicine, which had links with psychology, aggression, behaviour, and human affairs.”

-Roger Bannister

In 2011, Bannister was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. He died on March 3, 2018 at the age of 88 in Oxford, England.

• Sir Christopher Ondaatje is the author of The Last Colonial. He acknowledges that he has quoted liberally from Wikipedia.

ROGER Bannister and John Landy at Iffley Road on the 50th anniversary of the ‘Miracle Mile’ in 2004

ROGER Bannister winning a race in 1953

community

Ladies, you are invited to a ‘Bridgerton’ tea party in Nassau’s ‘Gardens’

ABridgerton-inspired tea party is set to amaze and entertain guests on Sunday, May 26. It’s a “Royal-tea Par-Tea High Tea Affair” hosted by the ‘Dukes and Duchesses of Stapledon Gardens’, spearheaded by Linda Stubbs, a professional decorator and community activist.

Inspired by the extremely popular Netflix show (which just premiered its third season), this exciting event will include white glove professional butler service and professional entertainment by artists including a soloist, a dance troupe performing the ‘Bridgerton waltz’, and a violinist.

“ ‘Bridgeton’ is widely watched and enjoyed by women and men,” said Ms Stubbs, “It’s a unique drama with periodic spicy scenes.”

“I think the blend of Black and white gentry/richness bodes well for the future of the Netflix series. I find that women on all levels love this series. The love stories of mixed race were brilliantly choreographed.”

As to why she decided to host this elegant affair, Ms Stubbs said: “As a resident mother in the ‘Gardens’ - Stapledon, Millennium and Yellow Elder Gardens - I felt that it’s high time women are elevated for a day when they can dress up and hang out with other mothers.

“They will feast on decadent cakes, pastries and other fine finger foods while sipping on champagne or a mimosa and having a laugh while discussing season 3 of ‘Bridgeton’.”

The Bridgerton Tea Par-Tea will be over-the-top and worth every penny, according to Ms Stubbs. As guests enter through the garden path that leads to the ballroom, they will sign the guest register, then be escorted to the photo booth to make some memories. They will then be greeted by a

well-dressed protocol person who will escort them to their seat.

“As they enter the ballroom, they will be dazzled by the beautiful decor and familiar song tracks from the ‘Bridgerton series’,” she said.

“A dashing, well-dressed butler will come over promptly to offer you the beverage of your choice. Our women will be fully pampered at their Bridgeton Tea Par-Tea.”

The event will also feature female speakers who will touch briefly on aspects of life that affect women. The women of the Gardens will be asked to stand to be recognised.

“We have a power-packed agenda,” Ms Stubbs said, “They won’t have a dull moment.”

“From the entrance, they will be warmly greeted, by our very own Penelope and Viscount Bridgeton.”

Guests will enjoy champagne and mimosas; a three- course service of cakes, sandwiches, and quiche puff pastries; hot and cold teas, including bush tea; and prizes and surprises from Nassau’s top stores and boutiques.

There will also be a fascinator competition featuring derby styles that showcase Junkanoo, traditional church style, ‘butterflies and bees’ and the Bridgeton inspired headgear. First place wins $300; second place $200 and third place $100.

“We are also going to have the most unique table centrepieces that will be raffled at each table,” she said.

“Lastly, we will have a hat auction. This masterpiece is being produced by Carmeta’s hats’ Mr Nashon Rolle. Part proceeds will be donated to one of our residents in Stapledon Gardens who will need a prosthetic limb as a result of an amputation,” said Ms Stubbs. Tickets are $68 each. For more information, WhatsApp 477-7383.

animals

Animal matters Kim Aranha

The Ark is full again!

At the Bahamas Humane Society Shelter we have a finite amount of space, and the space is all used up.

There has been a rush of people who no longer want their pets. Cats and dogs are dumped on us at an alarming rate, by people who simply can’t be bothered to take care of their animal family members. They feel that once they have “had enough” or “become too busy” all they have to do is walk through the BHS doors and hand the poor confused animal over to us. They do not want to answer questions, or pay any money; they cannot get away fast enough. Get rid of the problem and carry on as if nothing happened.

That really is the coward’s way out, isn’t it? Not accepting responsibility for an animal, not caring what happens to it, how confused or frightened it is, just make it our responsibility and walk away without a backward glance.

What does that say about the people who are doing that, what does that say about their moral standards, their compassion, their sense of responsibility?

My personal opinion is that anybody capable of such action is probably not a very reliable person, not somebody that I would like to entrust the future of my business to. If they have not got a sense of duty or responsibility to an animal who is virtually helpless, can they be expected to be reliable and rock solid in other situations that require the same personality qualities?

We try and accommodate as many animals as we can, but clearly if people look to us as the only solution, then we need to be 20 times bigger.

A very serious problem is how many dogs are being bred in Nassau (and the other islands) presently. There are so many dogs out there for sale, and believe me, there are many people who would rather spend several thousands to buy (or “rehome” is the catchy phrase breeders like to use, but once money passing hands, it is a sale). People would rather own a “cocker-doodle -Berner -poo” than

PET OF THE WEEK

(PHOTO BY JUDY YOUNG)

a potcake who in essence is the same thing: a mixture of several breeds. The fancier the name, the hotter the pup. I find it unbelievable that people will go to such lengths to purchase these random mix breeds for such a generous amount of cash and then tire of them after a few weeks. Is money that expendable nowadays that you can drop a few thousand on a puppy and then dump it?

When you need to change houses, don’t just find the one you like and take it, only to find that there is a nopet policy. Instead of deciding that a property is not right for you, you turn around and simply get rid of your dog

Worthy of “Freedom”

By The Bahamas Humane Society

“Freedom’s just another word for nothing left to lose...” Freedom is also a name for the oldest adoption dog at the Bahamas Humane Society.

This senior citizen is about ten years old, approximately 70 in human years. Freedom doesn’t let his age slow him down, though. He enjoys going out for the dog walks and gets along well with the other adoption dogs. If you’ve been looking to adopt but don’t want to deal with puppy energy, Freedom

or cat. Is there no sense of commitment?

Whatever the reason or the lack of reason, the BHS now finds itself with way too many cats and dogs. We need people to please step up as foster homes and forever homes. We do not want to turn away any unwanted animal. We do not want them to end up at the pound and get put to sleep just because they have committed the crime of existing. We want to help, and we want to find solutions. We can help with food and fences, we can help and give advice. Please reach out to us for more information as we try and settle this influx of animals we are currently experiencing.

We always worry when we tell people that we cannot take an animal that they may take it upon themselves to dispose of that animal. People have a disgusting and cruel way of looking at things, alas. Please bear with us.

Moving to a new house, having a baby, getting a job, sneezing...these are not reasons to dump a dog or cat.

might be the dog for you. Come in to the BHS to meet him or call 325-6742 for more information. Freedom looks forward to meeting you!

• The BHS Thrift Shop is open and has lots of amazing items for sale! All proceeds go to the BHS. Wednesday/Thursday/Friday 11am to 3pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm. Thank you to our donors and customers for keeping us busy!

These are sentient beings with feelings who deserve consideration.

It is absolutely essential that the Bahamas realise that spaying and neutering is the only way forward to get a handle on the domestic animal explosion we are experiencing.

Just yesterday I was talking to a lady who told me that her neighbour’s dogs had given birth to about 30 puppies… just think if half of those puppies are female, and each one has a litter in six months, of which four or more are female, in less than a year that can mean 250 more females producing puppies twice a year. This is a scary detail that can be so easily remedied if only people would have their pets spayed (and neutered). It would save so much suffering, and Baark is there to help you.

Meanwhile, please find it in your heart to adopt a pet from the shelter. We have so many souls just waiting to give you love and affection.

Author can be contacted at: Berryislandgirl@gmail.com