The Weekend Fashion Report
The Toronto International Film Festival
Cate Blanchett
Cara says: “This is a very true to her style look and she nailed it - just enough bling in the top and I love the deep V and the flow of the skirt. She looks elegant as usual.”
Farah says: “I love the uniqueness of the dress. I love the metallic combination with a flair A-line skirt, from this angle she looks very nice. I love the contrast. the metallic I know we are coming into that season where that is going to become popular. And her hair adds interest to the look.”
MISS Zoe Saldana
Cara says: “This belongs in the bedroom and not on the red carpet. I love a lingerie look for evening just as much as the next girl, but sometimes it veers to far into raunchy territory. I think she missed the mark.”
Farah says: “Of all the things that she could have decided to wear, she decides on a very raunchy risqué cheap fast fashion dress that you can find on FashionNova, Shein all the popular brands,I would have expected something a bit more elegant. The embellishments and accents are nice but why does it have to be see through at the crotch. That is disturbing to me. It’s unnecessary and she is too rich for this.”
SPLIT
Selena Gomez
Cara says: “I think it’s a cute unique take on the halter peplum evening dress. Now I do think that she is a bit young for this, and her hair should have been in an updo. But I think it’s a bit old for her. The red lip is a bit severe for me, but otherwise I think it’s a hit.”
Farah says: “This look is a complete flop.I remember the peplum era and peplum was a thing several years ago, but I don’t know if peplum has really made a comeback and this dress does not really work. I would say the only interesting thing about is the criss cross declategue with the flower. Her hair is also so distracting.
With Cara Hunt and Jeffarah Gibson
HIT
Amy Adams
Cara says: “The real star of this show is the button at her bodice holding it all together - cause she is a pop away from baring it all. The dress is a lovely burgundy, but I do feel it could have had a slight longer hemline.”
Farah says: “Simple yet elegant, very age appropriate. I love that the dress isn’t too long so you get to see her nice sandals which I think pair nicely with the dress. There is nothing over the top about it, and we have seen it before but on her it is lovely.”
HIT
events
Girls Night Out… but with a purpose
By JEFFARAH GIBSON | Tribune Features Writer | jgibson@tribunemedia.net
THE CHAMPS organisation is hosting “I’m That Girl” girl’s night out event that seeks help women walk in their purpose and have an impact on their communities.
But in order to be impactful, one must first be confident in their Godgiven abilities. This is the reason CHAMPS has organised the girls night out which will be held at the Church of God of Prophecy Love Centre Fellowship Hall, located on Ernest and York Streets beginning at 7pm.
The event will feature speakers who will cater to the “whole man”. Young entrepreneur Shaynae Smith, a partner in UNSEEN Media, Communication and Marketing; founder of Island Country will be a featured guest.
Ms Smith will be a part of a Q&A segment where she will talk about her journey in starting her business. She will speak about her trajectory and how she overcame obstacles to get where she is today; Ms Smith is one that is contributing to her community and reaching the world.
Former Miss Teen Bahamas Timoya Walton will also share her
story and journey of being “that confident girl”.
“The evening will not be short of hearing from women who have impacted their business, community and church,” said Samita Ferguson, founder of CHAMPS, motivational speaker and trainer.
“These women have faced obstacles, but was determined to overcome; they are Ranel Pierre and Latoya Culmer. With their stories
it will be evident that they have embodied Jeremiah 29 vs 11, ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future’.”
CHAMPS has been continuing with its efforts of empowering young women, ladies and teens to be confident in the gift and calling that is on their lives to impact their community and world.
CHAMPS has been focused on a lot of training-based programmes, youth empowerment when it comes to creating sustainable business ideas; in addition to networking individuals with the right source to help with their purpose and pursuit in life.
“I have come to the realisation that there are many young girls, teens and young woman who are still struggling with their identity, these women can be from at risk to top flyers, even ones who are contributors to being positive influencers; but some way down the line, they forget or need that reminder that they are ‘That Girl’, who despite the odds can overcome, they can be confident, they can be strong, then can do all things because of God who gives them strength, they can be victors and not victims. They can rise even if they feel; also they can be that gem that God created them to be,” she said.
The event is geared towards, teens, young ladies, and mentors, Mrs Ferguson said.
“I want the attendees to know that they can expect greatness, no matter what position they find themselves. This event is designed to build a community of faith-based believers, to teach one to understand the importance of knowing their circle of influence and trusted voices, voices that will build and not tear down. Voices that will champion one another and support ‘that Girl’ that is making waves and impacting lives. ‘That Girl’ that is a positive role model, that girl that despite the odds, she will shine, knowing that ‘her rain will not last forever, because the sun will shine one day’,” she said.
It her hope that women who attend the unique girls night out event, leave inspired to reach their fullest potential and exhibit that.
“The main-takeaway is for to know their ‘strength’; to know that they can do all things because of God who strengthens them and who enables them to maximise their God given potential; because they are ‘that girl’ created by Him. ‘That Girl’ should know their assignment and know their self-worth. Another takeaway, is for one to know that one is capable of achieve what they set their mind to. Lastly, to know that God’s plan is for one to prosper and be in position to live triumphantly,” she said.
For more information, contact samitar70@gmail.com or contact Samita Ferguson at 242 466-4985.
RANEL Pierre SAMITA Ferguson
TIMOYA Walton
SHAYNAE Smith
LATOYA Culmer
Dion Cunningham
PIANIST Dion Cunningham has a passion for performing - but also for encouraging the arts in The Bahamas. He spoke to CARA HUNT as his efforts have earned him recognition at an awards ceremony.
Dion Cunningham has always been about combining his two passions of classical piano and promoting the arts in the country.
And he will soon be honoured for his efforts at an award ceremony next month.
In addition to his musical skills, Dion is an educator, researcher and interdisciplinary practitioner.
He is currently an assistant professor at the University of The Bahamas in a dual appointment between the School of Education and School of Communications.
From an academic perspective, Dion has studied the scientific technique of playing the piano.
His research intersects artistic and scientific disciplines which explores critical analysis of historical instrumental pedagogy and technique; neuromechanics and motor control of piano playing; issues of piano technology, ergonomics and injury; development of instrumental proprioception; and knowledge gaps in aspiring and professional pianists.
These research areas extend from his dissertation work entitled “The Science of Artistic Expression: Intersections of Piano Pedagogy and Human Neuromechanics”.
He became the first Bahamian to earn a Doctoral degree in Musical Arts which he received in 2019 at the University of Maryland, College Park.
this weekend in history
September 13
1971 - A revolt at New York’s Attica Correctional Facility ended after a bloody state police assault on the prison, in which 29 inmates and 10 hostages were killed.
“I believe that the arts have immense power to positively change our communities by promoting mutual understanding of the things that connect us.”
Additionally he holds a Masters of Music from the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University. He also holds a Masters of Music Education (Vandercook College of Music), a Diploma in Education (College of the Bahamas) and Bachelor of Arts Degrees in Biology and Music (Macalester College).
But more than that, he says it has always been his hope to those from non-traditional backgrounds to pursue their artistic passions.
“I believe that the arts have immense power to positively change our communities by promoting mutual understanding of the things that connect us,” he says.
Dion is the founder of and producer of Adventures in the Arts - an arts outreach organisation centred around the concept of “edutainment” - which is video games, television programmes, or other material, intended to be both educational and enjoyable.
1990 - The law-enforcement series Law & Order debuted on the NBC television network; the show became one of the longest-running prime-time TV dramas in the United States.
September 14
1814 - Francis Scott Key was inspired to write The Star-Spangled Banner after Fort McHenry successfully withstood a British attack. 1985 - The American sitcom The Golden Girls debuted on American television; known for its focus on older women — played by Betty White, Rue
He created Adventures Edutainment in January of 2021.
“I wanted to share how awesome this music was and to connect it to both other art forms and to our everyday lives,” he said.
He has said that originally it was designed for children and youth only but has since expanded to include other local and international performing and visual artists intertwined with film and drama.
“I felt that in our community, art doesn’t go further than mere
“
I felt that in our community, art doesn’t go further than mere entertainment. There is nothing wrong with that, but arts can be used for so much more. It can be used literally change the trajectory of individuals lives, communities and nations if used with intention.It is my life’s mission, to use the arts to achieve such ends.”
McClanahan, Beatrice Arthur, and Estelle Getty — and for tackling timely topics, the series became hugely popular.
September 15
1963 - Members of the Ku Klux Klan bombed the predominantly African American 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, killing four girls. 1978 - Muhammad Ali won the world heavyweight boxing championship for the third time with his victory over Leon Spinks.
entertainment. There is nothing wrong with that, but arts can be used for so much more. It can be used literally change the trajectory of individuals lives, communities and nations if used with intention.It is my life’s mission, to use the arts to achieve such ends,” he said.
In 2022, Dion was awarded Harvard University’s Chen Yidan Visiting Global Fellowship. He is Harvard University’s first performing or visual artist fellow in its 15 year history. His graduate course “Music as the Universal Language” and his lecture “Teaching and Learning through the Classics, Gaming and the African Diaspora” were the most subscribed in the fellowship’s history.
As a concert pianist, Dion has performed throughout North and South America, the Caribbean and Europe. A prizewinner in the American Protege International and American Prize Solo Piano competitions, he made his Carnegie Hall debut in 2016 in New York City. He is frequently sought after as a recitalist and a collaborator. He will make his solo piano album debut this Fall entitled “Dion presents Robert Schumann” where he explores the early works of Robert Schumann and their intersections with contemporary themes.
As a performer and presenter, his career has taken him to many places around the world, including Italy Hungary, Greece, the United Kingdom, as well as the US and Canada.
Dion will be recognised for all his achievements next month at the St Augustine’s College Alumni Achievement Award (SACAA) the Arts.
Led by president Dr Anastacsia M Brown, SACAA will host a “Junkanoo Masquerade - Celebrating the Big Red” on October 19, 2024, at the Grand Ballroom, Atlantis Resort, Paradise Island. Oaktree Medical serves as the title sponsor, and SACAA has an extraordinary night of food, fun and cultural entertainment planned, with the Essence Band headlining the show.
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.
SMALL CROSSWORD
SMALL CROSSWORD
ACROSS 1 Recognise and name (8)
THE ALPHABEATER
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
Warships of a nation (4) 8 Delete (5)
Stringed instrument (6) 12 Inform (4) 14 Alcoholic spirit (3)
Deepness (5)
Short snooze (3)
Turn quickly (4)
Human beings (6)
many
Gain knowledge (5)
Garden pipe (4) 22 Contaminated with an illness (8)
In making a word, each letter may be used once only. Each must contain the
letter and there must be at least one nine-letter word. No plurals. Verb forms ending in S permitted.
ACROSS 1 Handsome, 6 Obey, 8 Pause, 11 Racing, 12 Sits, 14 Cup, 15 Spill, 16 Big, 17 Earn, 19 Double, 20 China, 21 Else, 22 Employed. DOWN 1 Horseback, 2 Neat, 3 Spiritual, 4 Mug, 5 Responded, 7 British, 9 Ankle, 10 Squares, 13 Spoon, 18 Ally, 19 Dim. For today’s solution call: 0907 181 2583
1 Without delay (9) 2 Wicked (4)
3 Elope then (anag.) (9) 4 Enthusiast (3)
5 Brewed (9)
LAST SATURDAY’S SOLUTION
Yesterday’s Sudoku Answer
7 Typical (7) 9 Civil uprisings (5)
10 Researches (7)
13 Fulcrum (5)
18 Conspiracy (4)
19 Cooking vessel (3)
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. Solution tomorrow
CAN you crack the Alphabeater? Each grid number represents a letter – or black square. As in Alphapuzzle, every letter of the alphabet is used. But you have to complete the grid too! Use the given letters and black squares below the grid to start. The grid is ‘rotationally symmetrical’ – in other words, it looks the same if you turn the page upside down. Solution tomorrow
Yesterday’s Kakuro Answer
gardening
Good day gardeners, how does your garden grow?
I’m watching things grow quickly, but not everything does. Some plants have much slower growth rates than others. While some plants, bougainvillea for example, can almost be seen growing by the hour, others take their sweet time and put on very little new growth while others are multiplying literally, like weeds.
Typically, the slower growing that something is, then the higher quality it is considered. Slower growing plants are far easier to manage and train than faster growth rate plants.
A few examples of slow growth rate plants are the lady palm, Monstera deliciosa, and silver top palm.
Some plants are terribly slow to begin with and slow to get established, but once they “hook” in, they take off and the growth rate increases drastically.
An example of this is the Bismarck palm. The Bismarck takes years to get going, but once they are established, they can grow hand over foot annually.
Slow-growing plants are excellent for indoor use, as they are easy to
keep in bounds and to keep in a pot without much care. Any plant can be used indoors provided that they receive a suitable amount of light to survive or in the best case scenario, to grow.
When a nursery grows plants for indoors, they are grown under a shade cloth in lower light to acclimate them to the indoor environment. If this was not done, plants would not have a great chance of survival. It is a shock to take a plant from the full sun for example, to them being placed in a low light situation indoors. It doesn’t work out very well.
Plants placed inside need to be grown to be acclimated to low light situations before they are used as aesthetic additions to the indoors. That alone is the most crucial factor to successful indoor gardening, other than to avoid over watering.
Be sure to not put a plant that is root bound inside the house. Root bound means that the pot is full of roots, often
Indoors again
curling and twisting around each other. If a plant is root bound, it is best to take it out of the pot, trim off 30 percent of the root, and add them back into the pot with some fresh potting media.
Nutrient amendments are as important for slow growing plants as it is for fast growing plants, but a key difference needs to be noted: fast growing plants need faster release fertilizers, slow growing plants need slower release fertiliser.
In lieu of slow-release fertiliser, smaller amounts of fast release can be used, at regular intervals. The trick is to not over do it, but also to not under do it. Too much and the plant can get burned, too little and it is a complete waste of time and resources as it makes no difference.
Experience is the best gauge, until that has been gained though, carefully following label directions is the suggested route, until you get to know the plant and the products being used. Indoor plants
ought not be kept sitting wet, and nor should they be kept bone dry. Somewhere in between there is a happy medium, in more ways than one.
The potting medium needs to hold some moisture, and this level differs to each plant species. Experimentation is the best teacher, and each location will create different requirements for the same type of plant potted the same way. Fun hey?
The good old rule of thumb, where what works for one may not work for the other. Suggestions are simply that, suggestions. It is impossible to create fixed rules to follow until the experience is gained and the intricacies of each plant are learned. Yes, plants emit oxygen and filter toxins from the air, but you will need an indoor jungle for them to make any measurable difference. What indoor plant will you try next?
As always, I wish you happy gardening.
Solo travel
By JEFFARAH GIBSON | Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net
“Alone and loving it” may be the new theme for many adventure seekers who travel thousands of miles away to experience some of these most picturesque places around the world; vibrant with colour and culture. The new trend is dubbed solo travel.
To be approached with an open mind and desire for exploration, solo travel they say gives people an opportunity to experience places in a way other forms of travel does not.
Though trending, not everyone takes to it naturally. Some worry about traveling solo. There are concerns around loneliness, safety, and more.
To help those with a desire find a bit of ease to travelling the world local travel vlogger Nikia Wells took a few moments away from her current trip to Bali to offer some advice.
Nikia is all too familiar with solo travel. In fact she recently wrapped up a solo trip to Thailand. This year, Nikia has travelled to a number of countries — both solo and with friends. Some of her most recent trips have included Thailand, Australia, Morocco, Peru, and a return trip to Indonesia. Thailand, Australia, and Peru were all solo adventures. She also co-hosted her first group trip to Bali with another local travel vlogger. She said: “I love experiencing cultures that differ from my own, as well as meeting people from diverse backgrounds. Each experience has been unique and exciting. Even when I’m just exploring or enjoying a local meal, I get to learn a tiny bit more about the world around me.”
And what’s not to love about the excitement of travelling and the thought coming face to face with places only scene on television or the world wide web.
“I like the excitement of embracing the unknown as well as learning more about global cultures. I adore living in The Bahamas and my Bahamian culture to my core (I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else), but as a smaller country, there is so much more to learn. Each trip showcases just how massive the world is and highlights how much more there is to learn, experience, and enjoy in this life.”
Having been on a number of solo trips, Nikia encourages it.
“I think social media has helped to make the world feel a bit smaller and more connected. People are far less intimidated to step out of their comfort zones and embrace experiences that interest them because they see others successfully doing the same. Travelers are also able to be more informed about how to go about planning solo trips, navigating cultural barriers, and doing so in a safe and secure way,” she said.
Her solo trip to Thailand she said was a “wonderful experience. During her time there she visited Bangkok, which she said has often been depicted as this wild and raucous location.
“I experienced none of the “Hangover-esque” antics. I found the people genuinely warm, the food delicious, and I loved being able to experience their rich culture. I also felt safe despite the jam-packed roads.”
While traveling can be a fun and exhilarating experience, one must proceed with caution.
“I have thankfully been very lucky in my travels, with only minor incidents here and there. While I have never felt like I was in any danger, it’s so important to be vigilant when traveling and practice some basic precautions to stay safe.
“Practice the same level of diligence that you would at home and pay attention to your surroundings. When solo traveling, I always send my itinerary to a close family member to plan out communication intervals so that they know to sound the alarm if I have not touched base. I never tell anyone that I’m alone when traveling and, if asked, I always say I’m meeting someone or point out someone to pretend that they are with me. I do not accept drinks or food from strangers, I do not drink heavily, and I never leave my drinks unattended. I also use apps like uber instead of taxis for an added level of safety, since there is documentation of who is picking me up and where I’m going. Communication is also vital when traveling, so I always have a portable Wi-Fi device or eSIM to stay in touch or to call for help,” she said.
One simple safety tip Nikai said she gives solo travellers “to be aware and trust your instincts”.
“If something doesn’t feel right, and do not be overly polite when presented with a situation that feels off. Remove yourself or bring attention to a situation if you feel unsafe.”
Kendera’s Krafty Korner
By ALESHA CADET | Tribune Features Writer | acadet@tribunemedia.net
FOR Kendera Armbrister, the art of Bahamian straw craft isn’t just a business - it’s a legacy. Growing up surrounded by the rhythmic plaiting of straw from her mother and grandmother, she learned the craft that would eventually spark her entrepreneurial journey.
What began as a childhood pastime has flourished into the Krafty Korner 242, a thriving business that showcases Bahamian-made gifts and souvenirs. From straw bags to shell crafts, Kendera is weaving together heritage and opportunity to create something uniquely Bahamian.
“My mother started sewing straw bags as a hobby and I’ve always watched her. Two and a half years ago, I got the opportunity
Krafty Korner currently offers authentically made Bahamian products such as straw bags, straw shoes, shell jewellery, sea glass jewellery, crotchet animals, wood craft, and more.
“Krafty Korner is dedication to not only creating but also teaching the art of straw plaiting to ensure the art is continued through generations to come. We have received an overwhelming amount of support for our products. As a result of the support, we were able to expand our wholesale products to customers across the Bahamas,” said Kendera.
When asked what is the process like, creating her straw crafts, and other products - Kendera said the material is sourced from Family Islands like Exuma, Long Island and Cat Island where the silver tops
to sell straw at a local hotel, which sparked my interest in learning how to sew straw to help increase the inventory. That opportunity set the tone for other opportunities and that is how Krafty Korner was born,” said Kendera.
The creative told Tribune Weekend she has always been crafty, so the name of her business incorporates all of her - adding a little personality with the letter K.
are cured and dyed before the plaiting process.
Just recently, she has incorporated embroidery designs on her strawbags, and as a result, add beautiful designs with vibrant colours and characters on the bags.
Since its inception, Kendera said Krafty Korner has expanded from pop-up events, to the opening of its very own store front. Her services have also expanded to include collaborations with various artisans to sell other authentic Bahamian products such as wood craft, shell craft and sea glass. Moreover, straw plaiting classes and demonstrations are also offered.
“Our storefront has presented an opportunity to work with other Bahamian artisans. We are excited to offer a space where artisans can showcase their talents and products for the world to see. We would like to grow commercially. We hope for our products to be in every gift shop around the Bahamas. We also have an interest in teaching the art to schools, conferences and other programs,“ said Kendera.
Since owning and starting Krafty Korner, Kendera said she has been challenged creatively. She was able to improve her time management skills
which helped her to become more efficient with her overall work ethic. As a result, she has seen a significant boost in productivity.
“I would advise aspiring entrepreneurs to simply start. And in the process of starting, position yourself for opportunity. Krafty Korner began with a small sewing machine I inherited from my mother. I began sewing small clutches and keychain wallets. I got a business licence and started participating in local pop ups and applying for local grants that helped us get to where we are today,” said Kendera.
She said success to her is setting goals and watching them unfold. This has all been very rewarding and fulfilling in her creative journey thus far.
“To be able to see our products being purchased and enjoyed by tourist and locals is something we always envisioned. Success should not be measured by financial gain alone but by the feeling of satisfaction you get when you watch your aspiration comes into fruition,” said Kendera.
creativity
Party in a Box
By ALESHA CADET | Tribune Features Writer | acadet@tribunemedia.net
THE joy of celebrating life’s milestones goes far beyond the parties themselves for Jeffette Ingraham.
What began as a personal passion for hosting and decorating intimate gatherings quickly blossomed into something much bigger - a calling that sparked a business.
Today, as the owner of Party in a Box Bahamas, Jeffette is transforming the local event industry, blending creativity with financial savvy to craft unforgettable experiences.
“It is a calling that began with the joy of hosting and decorating parties for myself and loved ones. Their heartfelt compliments ignited a spark within me, propelling me towards entrepreneurship. Armed with a blend of financial acumen and creative vision, I’m on a journey to redefine the event industry,” said Jeffette.
For over a decade, the Bahamian woman has navigated the intricacies of the financial world, while simultaneously channeling her passion for creating memorable experiences through event planning.
Under the Party in a Box brand, she now prides herself in having pioneered the modern party shop with trendsetting ideas and innovative product curation and event designs. The tableware selection, Jeffette said, is unmatched in quality and stylishness. This sets the brand apart from everyone else.
“Party In A Box recognises that extravagance doesn’t mean compromising our values when it comes to celebrating responsibly and sustainably. Thus, we pride ourselves on ensuring our products are sustainable and friendly to the environment. Our eco-conscious balloon bar provides everything from modern latex balloon bouquets to elaborate garlands for party decor that pops,” she said.
From interactive food and beverage displays, to creating an event covered in vibrant colors, floor to ceiling designs, and even western theme fetes, Jeffette said she recognises that parties are way more fun nowadays with a theme.
“Whether our aim is to incorporate these popular design ideas into our gathering or to set current
decorating trends, our goal is always to make the day uniquely ours. Our luxury balloons work and hand painted backdrops are two of our
most popular requests. One memorable event we designed was the unveiling of the enhancements of the iconic Queen’s Staircase,” said Jeffette.
Speaking about the brand’s inno vative products and services, Jeffette said it was during the year 2020 when she and her team started curating party boxes as a solution to celebrat ing life’s precious moments during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“When there were curfews, small party sizes, and sadly loss of loved ones, we wanted to be there for you. Our boxes were made up of all the party supplies needed to ensure no one missed a memorable moment. Party in a Box was conceived to alleviate the challenges of everyday entertaining.
Instead, our once home-based, now premium party boutique houses a unique and thought out collection of our favourite things, as well as the tools and inspiration to throw your own beautiful and effortless events. Our constant research and trails allowed us the opportunity to discover and deliver products you won’t find just anywhere and all in one place,” said Jeffette.
She said her design sense and style are continuously evolving but more often than not, she is drawn to things that are colourful, layered and a bit unexpected. A description, she believes, one would also use to describe the country’s Junkanoo culture.
“My desire is to see Party in a Box grow into something much more than event designing and party supplies. I’d like to see my small business grow into something much larger than just the Bahamian market,” said Jeffette.
As a growing entrepreneur, Jeffette said she balances business and personal life by setting clear boundaries and prioritising her time. Over the years, she has learned to delegate tasks and trust her team, which gives her more space for family and personal interests.
“To unwind, I stay active and enjoy hobbies such playing pickleball and making time for short getaways when I can. Staying inspired comes from connecting with others with similar mindsets, exploring
JEFFETTE Ingraham
Wag and Walk
The Bahamas Humane Society will host its first annual fundraiser “Wag and Walk” in partnership with the Pet Food Institute on Saturday begining at 6am.
Percy Grant, chief inspector at The Bahamas Humane Society, expressed his gratitude for the fundraiser and for the opportunity for the dogs to get additional exercise outside of their kennels.
“Dogs love going for walks, and we have a faithful group of volunteers who currently walk as many of the dogs as they can twice a week. However, we are thrilled at the opportunity to partner with Pet Food Institute with Wag & Walk which will allow an even larger number of our shelter
dogs to not only walk but get socialised with new people and improve their chances of finding new, loving homes. We find that walking the dogs provides mental stimulation, opportunities for behavioral training, prevents obesity and overall helps the dogs feel less stressed, which helps with their behavior while in the shelter.”
Hope Sealey, Caribbean regional representative for the Washington-based institute, said “Every member of the general public who loves animals and wants to help the Bahamas Humane Society is invited to join us at the shelter at 6am on Saturday morning.”
A small registration fee of $10 is being charged to participants attending Wag & Walk, and all
proceeds will be donated to the Bahamas Humane Society. The walk will begin in the cool of the morning at 6am and will start from the Bahamas Humane Society’s shelter at 35 Dunmore Avenue, Chippingham, and will journey round trip to Bay Street, pass Fort Charlotte and arrive at the beach at Long Wharf where the dogs will be allowed to take a dip in the sea.
For more than 50 years, the Pet Food Institute has helped spread the word about pet nutrition and wellness. They represent 99 percent of all commercial pet food manufacturers and their research through the US Department of Agriculture is ongoing.
What
to
stream entertainment
NEW MOVIES — AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr
NEW MUSIC
— AP Music Writer Maria Sherman
NEW SHOWS
animals
Animal matters
Kim Aranha
I am Peanut, hear me roar!
Hi humans,
It just struck me that many of you really don’t realise just how amazingly busy your pet’s life is. I mean, you see us lying around and you actually think that is all we are doing…lying around. Well time for a reality check… Hello!
Let me start with my mornings. I wake up way before my human parents. I wake before the sun comes up even. I have these super sensitive (quite brilliant actually) ears that can hear sounds from very far away and very high tones, this amazing canine gift enables me to hear the garden and the bush behind us waking up. I can hear the Mummy birds talking to their babies, I listen to the territorial birds rustle their feathers as they perch on a twig and call out their warning song to keep away from their space. If I stay very quiet, I hear the woodpecker tapping down the road, and my friend the Ibis digging in our lawn for his breakfast bugs.
Every now and then, I hear one of my parents turn over in bed and I freeze hoping to hear them speak, if they talk, then that means I get to go outside and run around, dig some essential holes (to see what is there), sniff some new blossoms. bark at the moon (no I do not howl, I do not consider it ladylike). But they sleep on, and I wait, finally they wake up and out I dash to my garden. Now this is where a dog’s work is absolutely never done.
Every plant, every leaf, needs to be sniffed to make sure nobody else came into our garden whilst I was on my sofa sleeping. My fourteen-anda-half-year-old “sister” Bella lets me
By The Bahamas Humane Society
PET OF THE WEEK
Invite a God into your home!
Zeus is about four years old,and very popular with the dog walkers, Zeus is housebroken and would love a home where he can snuggle up on the sofa with you and then go for a long walk along the beach (or somewhere). Zeus walks well with other dogs but isn’t so keen on cats. If you’ve been looking for the perfect pet, this god’s for you! Come into the Bahamas Humane Society to meet him or call 325-6742 for more information. Zeus looks forward to meeting you!
The BHS Thrift Shop is open and ready to sell you all kinds of wonderful things! Books, clothing, housewares, giftware, art, and much more! Wed/Thurs/Fri 11-3 and Saturday 10-2. Bring your bag!
do it all, Quite exhausting…. and she insists that I report back to her all my findings.
It is particularly tedious if the neighbours cats have been over during the night. I get very annoyed,
sofa, whilst I wait for my breakfast to be properly served on my place mat. I expect it to contain a varied selection of grains, meat and vegetables and a minimum of that icky dog kibble. I take my puppy vitamin pill like the little lady I am becoming.
During the morning I pretend I that I am sleeping, but I really am waiting in case somebody opens the front door so that I can make a wild dash out to the front garden at enormous speed. There is so much to check on out there. The best bit is that I can look through the slats of the picket fence and should a human be walking on the road; I can bark at him with all my energy. Our street is very quiet, so it is a real treat when I get to frighten those usurpers away.
After that big burst of energy and vigilance I return to my sofa or settle into one of the many dog beds I can choose from. The one in front of the glass sliding doors is nice because I can see Mr. And Mrs. Pigeon when they fly on to my porch. I always chase them and can never catch them; it is so annoying when they get airborne. I stand there looking up and I know that they are laughing at me, so I go back into the house and the air conditioning.
The house is busy, humans are engaged with what they consider important. Don’t they realise that I need a long tummy rub? My Mum is paranoid about her shoes and keeps them all put away in a closet with a door. I guess that is because I like to chew the heels out and then she gets angry with me and tells me I have been a bad girl, as if that is ever true! Anyway, I pretend to be upset, so she comes over and gives me a cuddle and a treat. I go back to a bed and pretend to sleep. If somebody is cooking, I have to be by the kitchen table helping them, I keep the floor clean (unless vegetables drop).
My day continues with having to go in and out the doors frequently to ensure general property safety, reporting back to Bella.
after all they have their own garden, why do they feel the need to come here. aren’t they suitably afraid of me, Peanut?
After I have done my back garden tour, I am exhausted, understandably, so I need to have a sleep on the
At night, I curl up feeling loved and feeling safe, it wasn’t always like that in my life
The next morning, my very demanding routine repeats itself and you all think all we do is sleep, when we are “sleeping” we hear every word.
PHOTO OF ZEUS BY JUDY YOUNG.
Sipstyle with
THE Bahamas China Friendship Association recently held a calligraphy and wine tasting event.
The event comes as part of the association’s 20th anniversary celebrations, and was held in the ballroom at Margaritaville.
The event included sipping, painting and a silent auction - with participants able to learn favourite Bahamian phrases in Mandarin, such as Bush Crack, Man Gone or Soon TaReckley, Dog Eat Ya Lunch, Conchy Joe, Fix Ya Face, Reverse Back or No Broughtupcy.
Proceeds will go towards the association’s kite flying event for underprivileged youth.
HER Excellency Ms. Yan Jiarong presenting a gift to Vice President of the BCFA, Ms. Charlyne Sealy
ROTARIAN Lionel Haven skillfully executing his calligraphy presentation
HER Excellency Ms. Yan Jiarong presenting a gift to Vice President of the Senate, Hon. Barry Griffin and President of the Senate
ARTIST Jevon Thompson finishing a portrait for the silent auction
HER Excellency Ms. Yan Jiarong and BCFA Executives enjoying the event with staff from Aliv and Cable Bahamas
GUESTS showcasing their calligraphy skills
GENERAL Manager Ricky Rolle and Managers from Nassau Flight Services enjoying the Calligraphy and Wine Tasting event
BCFA PRESIDENT, Dr. Donovan Moxey addressing guests at the event