Bahama Islands Info Newsletter

News :: Events :: Opportunities

VOL III. No. 45, March 27, 2014

This week in Bahama Islands Info

National News

Nassau News

Grand Bahama News

Column: Humane Society of Grand Bahama update

Family Island & Abaco News

Arts & Entertainment News

Column: At the Movies

Sports News

Column: Bahamas weekly fishing report

Column: Letters to the Editor

Senior FAA and Bahamian government officials hold high-level bilateral discussions on airspace management

On Wednesday, March 26, U.S. Chargé d'Affaires a.i. John L. Armstrong and a team of senior representatives from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), led by Ms. Carey Fagan, Executive Director of the Office of International Affairs engaged senior Bahamian government officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration to discuss The Bahamas' airspace management. Ms. Fagan is responsible for developing international policy and providing guidance across the various disciplines of the FAA. She also oversees the FAA's international offices in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Latin America.

The Bahamas' delegation was headed by Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, The Hon. Philip Davis and the Minister of Transport and Aviation The Hon. Glenys Hanna-Martin. The purpose of the comprehensive one-day dialogue was to determine the Government of The Bahamas' position on the operation of its own airspace and to encourage the signing of an Air Navigation Services (ANS) agreement that would allow the FAA to continue providing air navigation services in Bahamian airspace.

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Statements by Minister Mitchell and Alfred Sears at announcement of full reparation committee

Press Statement by Fred Mitchell
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration
Monday 24th March 2014

Re: Establishment of The Bahamas National Reparations Committee.

At the Thirty-First Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Regular Meeting held 23 July 2013, the Heads agreed on an action plan on the matter of reparations for native genocide and slavery, it was also agreed that National Reparation Committees be instituted in each member state to establish the moral, ethical and legal case for the payment of reparations by the former colonial European Countries, to the Nations and people of the Caribbean Community, for native genocide, the transatlantic slave trade and a racialised system of chattel slavery. The Chair of each committee would sit on the CARICOM Reparations Commission.

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Financial Secretary warns that the Bahamas cannot afford to discuss alternatives to VAT indefinitely

The government must move quickly to get its fiscal house in order or the country will face severe economic consequences, Financial Secretary John Rolle warned.

And, as the clock ticks down, Mr. Rolle told the Rotary Club of Nassau that none of the suggested alternatives to Value Added Tax (VAT) has measured up in terms of revenue generation. The complexities of the local business environment is that the alternatives, whether income, or payroll taxes would have operate on a narrower base with fewer taxpayers than with a consumption tax.

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Woodcock Primary students tour U.S. Coast Guard Cutter GANNET

A fifth grade class at Woodcock Primary School got quite a treat on Thursday, March 20 when they were invited to participate in a tour onboard the visiting U.S. Coast Guard Guard Cutter GANNET while docked at the Prince George Wharf. The excited students were accompanied by class teachers Mrs. Claudia Sawyer and Ms. Willisa Robinson. U.S. Embassy officials also on hand for the tour included Public Affairs Officer Neda Brown and U.S. Coast Guard representative, Lt. Matthew Lamb.

The excited students, many of whom admitted that the experience was their first time onboard a ship, got a once in a lifetime opportunity to interact with the ship's captain, Sr. Chief Orlando and his thirteen member crew. During the 90 minute tour, the students were split into groups and learned about the role of the U.S. Coast Guard including search and rescue and migrant interdiction.

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BNT celebrates grand opening of Primeval Forest National Park

Elation and joy filled the air as the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) officially opened the Primeval Forest National Park located just south of Frank Watson Highway. Opening the park for the Prime Minister was the Acting Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, the Hon. Bernard Nottage. Also in attendance were, His Excellency Mr. Yuan Guisen, the Chinese Ambassador and Mrs. Guisen, American Charge de Affaires John Armstrong, BNT members, donors, and government officials. Additionally, students from who are members of the BNT's youth educational programme, BNT Discovery Clubs from Lyford Cay International and School Kingsway Academy participated in the opening.

Acting Prime Minister Dr. Bernard Nottage complimented the Bahamas National Trust its efforts to preserve this approximately eight acre park which is one of the last old growth hardwood forests on New Providence.

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WSC hosts Piping Solutions Seminar for World Water Day

Recently, Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) hosted a seminar on Piping Solutions in conjunction with the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association as a part of the activities leading up to World Water Day.

WSC has been active in the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) for over 15 years, with Cyprian Gibson, Senior Engineer in the Engineering and Planning Department at WSC serving as a president in the past. Gibson noted, "The seminar allows for continued professional development of the water sector and promotes best standards and practices in the industry."

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PM speaks of $250 million expansion to Freeport Container Port at opening of Memories Grand Bahama

Bahamas Prime Minister the Right Honourable Perry Gladstone Christie said Monday that he is in discussions with the operators of the Freeport Container Port, with a view to a possible $250 million expansion of that multi-million dollar facility. The Prime Minister was participating in the opening of the Memories Grand Bahama Beach Resort and Casino.

Mr. Christie said as his government moves resolutely on the revival of the Grand Bahama economy, they are not only advancing tourism but also focusing on the industrial and other related sectors of the broader economy. "In this regard I am pleased to confirm that positive conversations have taken place between me and my representatives, the principals of Hutchison, MSC Shipping and the Grand Bahama Port Authority on a $250 million expansion of the Freeport Container Port.

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Climate change and invasive species topics of 5th session of the EARTHCARE/Save The Bays Saturday Environmental Education Programme

On March 22nd, 2014, the EARTHCARE/Save The Bays Saturday Environmental Education Programme shared two serious topics with our Youth Environment Ambassadors, "Global Climate Change " and also "Invasive Species in the Bahamas" presented visually by Gail Woon, Founder of EARTHCARE and a Director of Save the Bays.

Ms. Woon commented, "This is our second to last session for the 2013/2014 school year. We are combining 2 important topics. Global Climate Change affects all of us. Our students are putting the pieces together. We previously covered Pollution and Habitat Destruction, both of which contribute to Global Climate Change. The Bahamas will be one of the top 5 countries, including the Maldives, to be the first to be negatively affected by sea level rise that is the result of climate change.

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Mission: Potcake a tremendous success

Mission: Potcake began Tuesday morning (March 18th) with high winds and blowing rain causing some delays, but the rest of the week we were blessed with beautiful weather. Once we got rolling, we really rolled! 260 dogs and cats were fixed in the five day clinic. Working in the "out areas" is always a challenge as there is usually a high number of difficult, lengthier surgeries due to many compromised animals, and this week was no exception. Many dogs and cats were malnourished, and plagued with parasites; for most this was the first time (and likely to be the last) they have ever seen a vet.

An astonishing 60% of the female adult dogs and cats that we fixed were in early stages of pregnancy; thus at least several hundred more unwanted puppies and kittens were prevented from being born in the coming months. We were overwhelmed by the incredible support given by the West Grand Bahama District Council. They didn't simply provide a room in a building. They provided incredible physical and moral support as well, and their enthusiasm and dedication were absolutely vital to the success of this clinic.

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GB economy unquestionably on rebound, Minister says

Grand Bahama economy is unquestionably on the rebound and 2014 will be a year marked by expansion and diversification says the Minister for Grand Bahama, Dr. Michael Darville. The Member of Parliament for Pineridge was on Thursday morning addressing members of the Bahamas Institute of Chartered accountants during a seminar at the Pelican Bay Resort.

The theme for the seminar was "Broadening your Expertise to Support the Changing Economic Environment." Dr. Darville described that theme as being truly timely, stating that he is of the view that accountants have the potential to assist this administration and the private sector on Grand Bahama to safeguard the fragile economy, and to actively contribute to the recovery, restoration, and revitalisation of the local economy.

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East End townships unanimously support proposed East Grand Bahama National Park

Last week Grand Bahama Parks Manager for the Bahama National Trust (BNT), Lakeshia Anderson, met with local citizens of McLean's Town at a public meeting at McLean's Town Primary School.

In a crowded classroom the MP for East Grand Bahama, Peter Turnquest, East End Administrator Sherrick Ellis, Eleanor Philips, Director, Northern Caribbean Program of The Nature Conservancy (TNC), bonefish guides, tour operators, local fishermen and residents met to hear about the BNT's proposal to extend the Grand Bahama national park areas, and particularly to discuss the creation of an East Grand Bahama National Park.

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Grand Bahama public invited to 17th annual SECME competition

It is with great pleasure that we invite you to participate in the 17th annual SECME competition.

This year the competition will be held at the Jack Hayward High School Gymnasium and Field on Saturday, March 29th commencing at 9:30am. Gates will open at 9:00am for visitors and guests. The Mousetrap Car competition will be held in the gymnasium and the Bottle Rocket competition will be held after the Mousetrap Car competition on the playing field. We have invited all students, parents, teachers and our entire community to this event and will have lots of FREE events for the kids.

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Bahamian company excels among Caribbean distributors of International Paint

Paint Fair, a Bahamian owned and operated company in Grand Bahama specializing in coatings since 1980, was recently presented with 'Protective Coatings Caribbean Leader in Growth' - a sales award for leading the Caribbean region in sales growth for distributors of International Paint, an industry leader of high performance coatings.

International Paint's Mr. Martin Criado, Latin America Manager, Marine & Protective Coatings, and Mr. Steve Vickers, Regional Manager Caribbean, Protective Coatings Division, led a conference of Caribbean Distributors in Tampa, Florida, where Paint Fair representatives were presented with the unexpected award.

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Hector Picard inspires Abaco

Hector Picard made his first visit to the Abacos as part of the third annual Great Abaco Family Fitness Weekend. Hector had previously visited Freeport and, upon the invitation of race director Lee McCoy, made the journey from South Florida to participate in the weekend's races.

While this may not sound like such a great feat in itself, Hector is slightly different than everyone else. He is a motivational speaker, a triathlete, and a family man. He traveled with his wife Wendy and two kids, and stayed at the Treasure Cay Resort & Marina while in Abaco. He talked with a crowd at Every Child Counts and at Forest Heights Academy and also at the Hope Town School. He also demonstrated how to change a tire on his race bike - with no hands.

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Marine biologist: Research shows significant effects of Bimini development on marine environment

Research from a long-term study reveals that the year mega-resort construction in Bimini deforested almost half of a lagoon's mangrove shorelines, the survival rate of newborn lemon sharks plummeted to only 26%. The startling statistic was revealed during a presentation on the closing day of last week's Bahamas Natural History Conference in Nassau.

During the presentation, marine biologist Dr. Kristine Stump demonstrated that successive developers of the ongoing project, currently operated by Resorts World Bimini, have failed to use mitigation measures such as silt curtains while dredging and filling, sending plumes of dangerous silt into the lagoon, an important nursery ground for sharks, conch and lobster. The loss of important submerged mangrove habitat and accompanying siltation can have negative effects on the marine community, and results from her study showed declines in several important fish species that occurred after mangrove deforestation.

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Cruise ship MS Island Sky calls at Inagua

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism welcomed the MS Island Sky cruise ship to Inagua, a move to strengthening stop over visitor experience to that most southern island. On Monday, March 24, 2014 The Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Local Government the Hon V Alfred Gray and Tourism officials greeted the captain, crew and passengers as they boarded the vessel in mid sea.

Mr. Gray presented a glass Junkanoo doll to Captain Hakan Gustafsson, Master of MS Island Sky, who in turn gave a framed photograph of the luxury liner. "This is a hidden gem and you can now return to your home city and let all your family and friends know that you have seen paradise on earth," Mr. Gray said.

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One Eleuthera Foundation & Cancer Society of Eleuthera encourage healthy eating habits through new farm grand opening

Healthy eating is an essential part of building and maintaining a healthy body and a strong immune system. This can lead to the body being able to prevent and better combat certain illnesses and ultimately longer life.

During One Eleuthera Foundation's (OEF) inaugural Pathway to Wellness Symposium in 2012, it was noted that 60% of all deaths in The Bahamas are a result of Non Communicable Diseases (NCD) and account for half of all deaths of people 45 years and older. The most prevalent illnesses seen in all clinics on Eleuthera and in the Health facilities throughout The Bahamas are Chronic Non Communicable Diseases (CNCD), namely Hypertension and Diabetes.

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Bahamian Music and Heritage Festival brings cultural and economic success to Exuma

Complete with 11 string plaiting, boxcar racing, a limbo fire show, and the sounds of several music legends, the Bahamian Music and Heritage Festival celebrated its 10th anniversary with a diverse display that brought large numbers of visitors and tourist dollars to Exuma.

The country's rich heritage and culture took centre stage as the unique sights, sounds, tastes, and customs of the Islands Of The Bahamas brought the historic Regatta Park in George Town, Exuma to life. A mix of longstanding traditions and the latest in Bahamian music and cuisine clearly depicted this year's festival theme, "The Year of Culture: 10 Years of Sharing Our Culture and Heritage...the Celebration Continues." General Manager of the Exuma Tourist Office Petherina Hanna called it a significant milestone, and said the audience significantly increased this year. According to Hanna, several thousands entered the festival gates over the three-day period.

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Hallelujah! The Regency Singers are 'Bach'

Spring is here, and there is a new feeling in the air. Trees and bushes are in bloom, there is a riot of colour everywhere you look, and the sun is warm on our backs as we look forward to the new season in the earth's perennial cycle. Here on Grand Bahama it is also time to look forward to the spring offering from the Regency Singers. Back from a one-year hiatus, this multi-talented group, under the direction of Lois Desaulniers, is offering a wonderfully eclectic programme of old and new music, under the theme of Hallelujah; in fact, the singing begins and ends with "Hallelujah", but they are different and you'll have to come and find out which is which.

The concert will be held next Wednesday, April 2nd at 8 p.m. in the Pro-Cathedral of Christ the King. Tickets: available at Seventeen Shop (Downtown) are $20 for adults and $12 for students.

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The circus is coming to town

Under the theme "The Truly Amazing Circus Believe It Or Not" Circus Bahamas is pleased to announce that the circus is coming to town and with all brand new acts. The Truly Amazing Circus - Believe It Or Not is based around the new cast performing and appearing on the popular television show Ripley's Believe It Or Not and its famous museums throughout the United States Of America.

This eye popping, jaw dropping and foot tapping show has a total 12 captivating performers of acrobats, clowns, contortionist, spectacular master magicians dubbed as the fastest quick changers in the world, infamous cartoon characters such as Sponge Bob, Dora and the Ninja Turtle, a hilarious side-kick midget and a daring sword swallowing act and again this year Elkier Pinder, a 7 year old student at Walter Parker Primary will impersonate Michael Jackson through his dance and much more.

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Lignum Vitae Centre of Hope will be 'Rocking Buena Vista' April 5th

The Great Sammy T and Los Labios, from Spain are the guest band playing the best Rock and Roll music from the 50's, 60's - the sound and the songs that cut loose from standard ballads and inspired a whole new genre of music, from Elvis Presley to The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and everyone else since then.

Lignum Vitae is a registered charity in the Bahamas, their mission, 'Empowering Women and Children to build a stronger community'. Their programmes provide Bahamian youth with a safe, dynamic, educational environment and opportunities through the U.S. based 4H programming, activities and a cooperative agreement with The University of Florida. July 2014 will bring 12 4-H Youth to the Bahamas to lead a camp and demonstrate the potential of 4-H Youth.

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Private screening of 'Passage' at Bahamas House in London

H.E. Eldred Bethel, High Commissioner, hosted a private Screening of 'Passage' a short film by Bahamian writer/director Kareem Mortimer at Bahamas House in London on Wednesday March 12, 2014. Bahamian nationals, friends of The Bahamas and representatives from the London Diplomatic Community, the Commonwealth Secretariat and Commonwealth Foundation attended the screening which was followed by a Q&A with the writer/director and a reception hosted by the High Commissioner.

High Commissioner Bethel welcomed guests to the 'Nassau Theatre' in London and offered congratulations to Kareem and encouraged him and all the other young Bahamian film makers to continue to tell the stories of The Bahamas.

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Local entrepreneur releases book and begins tour

Every year in the Bahamas, thousands of students leave high school in search of jobs. The question is everyone is seeking to be an employee but who is seeking to be the employer? Simple answer, develop more local entrepreneurs. Or is it really that simple when the failure rate for small businesses is so high?

Grand Bahama entrepreneur, Raquel Beneby-Hart has released her book 'Business Basic for Beginners'. This 100-page solution-driven, business readiness book is a compilation of business resource, business advice, the fundamental principles of business and inspirational quotes for Bahamian entrepreneurs starting up or in an existing business.

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Bahamian writer reflects on Carnival experience in Trinidad

By: Chester Robards

Carnival Tabanaca (loosely translated as an extreme melancholy caused by the end of the Carnival season) is real! This year was my first experience in Trinidad for the annual carnival, and I think I aptly summed up its overall effect on me as being... LIFE! Yes, Carnival is LIFE! Carnival is the explosion of everything necessary to brag to the world that you have truly lived... and survived to tell the tale. Carnival is enjoyed with a vulgar passion that can only be dragged out by copious amounts of power Soca and booze, but is a tradition in which participants (masqueraders) display worlds of respect, good will, and camaraderie.

While the spirit of Carnival is at its strongest the two days before Ash Wednesday, when thousands take to the streets of Trinidad to jump, wine and just get-on for as much as 14-hours, the season lasts much longer. Carnival season is dotted with fetes (parties), concerts and competitions.

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Reviewer enamoured by LIS I.B. Art Exhibition

By: Jackie Dack

I don't usually write reviews because, frankly, who I am to judge? I'm scathing and no art expert, hence I usually keep my reviews private. However, I want to tell you about the LIS Art Exhibition. It is all that I love.

I love the variation, colour, flashes of brilliance, the payoff from hard work coming to fruition and the willingness to be witnessed. I love truth and passion and the complete absence of pretension. Most of all, I love talking to the students. I love hearing about the learning journey they experienced, about the mistakes, the unexpected finds, and the pursuit of excellence in spite of all the distractions.

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At the Movies: Mr. Peabody & Sherman

One of the taglines fore this movie: History Is Catching Up With Them. The most accomplished dog in the world and his incorrigible adopted human boy use their time machine to go on outrageous trips through history. When the boy takes the time machine on a joyride to impress the class nemesis, they set off a chain of events which could wreak the whole space time continuum.

Mr. Peabody is a talking beagle who also happens to be a titan of business, a brilliant scientist, Nobel laureate, gourmand, two-time Olympic medalist and genius inventor of the WABAC but being a parent is his most daunting challenge. Sherman is a boy who was found by Mr. Peabody abandoned as an infant and adopted by him to be raised to the best of his abilities, but their bond is tested when he most start school and interact with children his own age. Penny Peterson is the bully of her class who takes is upon herself to see how far she can push Sherman intellectually, emotionally and physically but when things don't go the way she expects displays the facade of a doe eyed innocent.

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4th annual Shipyard fishing tournament sees fantastic turnout

Grand Bahama's favourite sports fishing tournament returned this past weekend to a fantastic turnout by fishermen and spectators alike. This year, 32 boats registered for Grand Bahama Shipyard's (GBS) 4th annual Youth Benefit Fishing Tournament, and the crowd watching and participating in the family fun day was bigger than ever.

"It is encouraging to see how the event is growing year after year," said Carl Rotkirch, Chairman and CEO of GBS. "The turnout was great this year and everybody seemed to have a good time. I would like to especially recognise Reuben Byrd from the yard, who is the founder of the tournament, and all those hard-working men and women that participated to make this such a wonderful happening. The things we can all accomplish for the kids in the community thanks to the tournament will help take our community to new heights."

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Competition and fun at the Great Abaco Family Fitness Weekend

Drawing everyone from the ultra-fit to those who run for fun, the third annual Great Abaco Family Fitness Weekend hosted them all this past weekend at one of the world's most beautiful beaches in Treasure Cay, Abaco. Bahamian and veteran of the local triathlon circuit, Simon Lowe, 30, and Laura Fijol, 46, of Massachusetts, came out triumphant in the Olympic distance triathlon event with times of 2:27:03 and 2:47:51.

The sprint triathlon was dominated by Nassau's Dorian Roach, 37, with a time of 1:20:46, and for the third year in a row Freeport's Vicki Stafford, 47, with a time of 1:28:02. Lowe, 30, came out on top again in the 10k run, in 44:57, along with Roberta Fontana, 44, of Nassau, who won the women's 10k in 48:14. In the 5k run, Donovan Rolle, 35, of Nassau, ran a speedy 6.51 minute per mile pace to cruise to victory in just 21:15, while Catherine Jadot of Freeport came in just behind at 22:34.

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RBC Royal Bank Client Appreciation & Invitational Golf Tournament raises thousands for the Bahamas Red Cross

RBC Royal Bank held its 4th Annual RBC Client Appreciation & Invitational Golf Tournament on March 25th, 2014. Participants, including RBC clients and business partners, enjoyed a day of exciting golf and friendly competition on the Ocean Club Golf Course. RBC established the tournament as a way to thank clients and make a significant impact on local charities.

RBC and tournament participants scored a hole-in-one at this year's tournament as it raised $25,000.00 for The Bahamas Red Cross.

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Grand Bahama sailors return victorious from the McCarthy Cup Regatta in Texas

Over the weekend of March 15-16 the Grand Bahama Sailing Club (GBSC) sent two teams to represent Grand Bahama in the McCarthy Cup Open Team Race. This event is hosted annually by the University of Texas and Austin Yacht Club in Austin, Texas. Teams consist of junior, collegiate, and alumni sailors from schools and Universities across the South Eastern sailing conference.

Team racing is an advanced form of sail boat racing in which 3 boats compete as a team against their opponents, the team with the lowest score wins. Competitors must use excellent boat handing skills in order to out maneuver their opponents.

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Fish are jumpin' near Palm Cay

What a 'weigh to go' for team Nixon returning to the marina at Palm Cay after a record day fishing in the Exumas. David Nixon, centre, says the mahi-mahi catch weighed in at nearly 120 pounds.

At least that's what he said that day. It could be more by now.

Since the marina at the family-oriented community on New Providence's southeast coast opened a few months ago, it has become a haven for boaters who can zip out to the Exuma chain and return the same day.

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Bahamas weekly fishing report from Harbourside Marine

Fishing report as of March 20, 2014

Nassau: The charter boat captains are reporting that the mahi bite slowed down a bit earlier in the week but has since picked up offshore.

Grand Bahama, Freeport: The fishing has picked up with mahi and tuna being caught offshore.

Abaco: The fishing has been a bit slower this earlier in the week due to the western winds but has picked up in the last day or so with a few dolphin, wahoo and tuna caught.

Long Island, Clarence Town: The wahoo fishing has been great. Eat your wheaties and bring your heavy gear!

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Letter: 'Things are happening in GB' - and they are not all good

"Things are happening in GB" so says the P.M. on the front page of Monday's Freeport News (March 17; 2014). Yes, they are. For years the cruise lines have said there is not much to do in Grand Bahama and they have asked for more. In recent years many local companies have expanded their tour offerings in an effort to give the cruise ships and their guests what they have been asking for: more to do in Grand Bahama.

So they have invested more in their businesses, purchased more inventory/equipment/vehicles, hired more staff, paid more to their insurance providers as for many years they have relied on cruise ship business to keep them operational. Some people have had some very good years, mostly because of cruise ships. Things are indeed happening in G.B., and they are not all good.

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MUDDASICK

What bugging you? Got a Muddasick?
Here's your chance to say your piece! Send your Muddasick to info@bahamaislandsinfo.com and we may just put it in print.

NASSAU EVENTS

Bahamas National Holidays - Click HERE to view the 2014 calendar.

March 27: WomanSpeak Launches 2014 Volume at the NAGB 7pm. A Journal of Writing and Art by Caribbean Women, volume 7/2014. Click HERE for more info.

March 27: Bahamian Identity and the Environment - 6pm at the Bahamas National Trust, Village Rd. Click HERE for more information.

April 2-3: Chamber's National Conclave of Chambers of Commerce - First event of its kind to bring together all Family Island Chambers of Commerce in the country, policy makers and industry leaders to discuss some of the most provocative and relevant issues that The Bahamas is facing. RSVP via www.chamberconclave.com.

April 5: Red Cross Fair Government House Grounds, Lower Gardens. 12 noon until ! Click here to view the ad.

April 5: Rocking Buena Vista' - Lignum Vitae Centre of Hope fundraiser. Click HERE for all the info.

April 6: Bridal Show at the Melia Resort, Cable Beach, 12 noon start. Prizes! Click HERE for more info.

April 6: AKA honours top female students - Government House at 2pm.

www.AKAetapsiomega.com

April 12: Atlantic Medical Fun Walk celebrates "Sweet 16" Contact 326-8191 for registration.

April 13: A Palm Sunday Concert - 6pm at Christ Church Cathedral. Click HERE for more info at Nassau City Opera's FB page.

April 19: Kingdor National Parkinson Foundation Gala Ball at the Melia resort. 326-5291 to get involved.

April 2-3: National Conclave of Chambers of Commerce in The Bahamas. Visit the website: www.chamberconclave.com.

May 10: Baark Purple Paws Live Auction NEW DATE! Click HERE to learn more.

May 10-11: Annual Mexican Fiesta Festival 2014 11am-7pm - Bahamas National Trust HQ on Village Rd. Live mariachi band, piñatas, authentic Mexican food and drinks.

May 18: Megan Sands Ostomy Foundation Fun Run/Walk starting at Montagu 6:45am. Registration opens April 21 at SOS Marine, Green Parrot, the Linen Shop and Studio Vivo.

May 23: Tessanne Chin performs at Atlantis. Click HERE for info.

May 24: Kacey Musgraves at Atlantis. Click HERE for details.

May 24-25: IAAF World Relays Bahamas at the new Thomas A Robinson stadium. Tickets on sale now.

September 20: Potcakeman Triathlon is back for a second year! Fun event for all ages. Click HERE to learn more.

November 23: Bahamas Half Marathon & 10K Coming back for a second great year! Click HERE to visit the website.

January 17-18, 2015: Marathon Bahamas Marathon, Half Marathon, Relay and the Susan G. Komen 5K make this a weekend for all runners! Click HERE to visit the website.

February 7-8, 2015: Ride For Hope #9 Has a new date and place! Now in Nassau. Click HERE to visit the FB event page.

Get your Nassau event listed in the Bahama Islands Info Calendar for free! Just write to info@bahamaislandsinfo.com with all the relevant information.

NOTE: All dates, times, locations and other details are subject to change.
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GRAND BAHAMA EVENTS

March 27: Lower the cost of power rally at KFC parking lot on the Mall Dr. Coalition of Concerned Citizens event, 6:30pm.

March 28-29: Truly Amazing Circus Comes to the St. George's Gymnasium. 10am Friday and 8pm Saturday. Click HERE to read more.

March 28-29: Slowpitch Softball Challenge - Eleuthera vs Grand Bahama 7pm, 8pm & 9pm Friday. 10am Saturday. Click HERE to view the poster for details.

March 29: Annual ZNS Fun Run/Walk 5K course for all levels starts and finishes at ZNS. Pre-registration required! Click HERE to download the form. Visit ZNS in the Harold Degregory complex. Packet pick-up Friday evening before.

March 29: 17th annual SECME competition - at the Jack Hayward High School Gymnasium and Field. Mousetrap Car and Bottle Rocket competition. Gates open 9am.

March 29: Rugby - Championship playoffs, 2pm at the Rugby Club on Settlers Way. Click HERE to view the poster.

March 29: Bahamian Beats & BBQ with live musical entertainment by KB, D-Mack, Veronica Bishop and more! 8pm at the Grand Lucayan. Click HERE or call 373-1333.

March 29: Interactive pastry making demonstration with renowned Michelin-Star Chef Gianfranco Chiarini at China Beach/Grand Lucayan. $25. Call 373-1333 for info.

March 29: Triathlon for The Beacon School Group event with American para-triathlete and motivational speaker Hector Picard, the first and only double arm amputee. Click here to visit the FB page.

April 2: Hallelujah! The Regency Singers are 'Bach' in concert at 8 p.m. in the Pro-Cathedral of Christ the King. Tickets: available at Seventeen Shop (Downtown) are $20 for adults and $12 for students.

April 12: Pollo Tropical Ride for Charity bike ride. Multiple distances to choose from, all end at Pollo Tropical. Click HERE to view the poster.

April 12: Rotary Past Presidents Walkathon - 8am at Taino Beach. Contact President Louie Alleyne HERE for sponsorship information. Funds to aid Rotary scholarships.

April 12: Atlantic Medical Fun Walk 6:30am start from the office in Jasmine Corporate Center. Pre-register! Call 351-3960 for more info.

April 12: Conch Fest at Taino Beach Rotary Club of Grand Bahama Sunrise event. Click HERE to view the poster.

April 13: 20 Pearls presented by Alpha Kappa Alpha, 4pm at the Regency Theater.

April 21: Pelican Point Coconut Festival Head east and go coconut crazy at this popular annual event. 11am-8pm.

April 26: West End Jr. Regatta and Festival on the waterfront of scenic West End. Click HERE to view the FB event page.

April 26: BNT Da Market at the Rand Nature Center.

April 30-May 4: Anglican Church Men's Conference in West End. Click HERE to read more.

May 1-3: Sarah's Wedding - new play written and directed by Kerel Pinder at the Regency Theater.

May 1-4: Multi-District Rotary International Conference at the Grand Lucayan. Rotarians from Grand Bahama and Florida celebrate "Service Above Self." Click HERE to visit the local district website.

May 3-4: International Youth Rugby Tournament with teams from Cayman, Miami Biscayne and other Florida teams at the Freeport Rugby Club.

May 4: Jonathan Gouthro Memorial Golf Tournament at the Reef Golf Course. A Rotary Club of Grand Bahama Sunrise event. Click HERE to view the poster.

May 5: World Labyrinth Day "Walk as One at One" 1 o'clock on the labyrinth at Garden of the Groves.

May 10: Walkathon & Steak Out - Freeport High/BMES Alumni 6:30am, warm up at 6am. $5 p/p. East along Sunrise Highway, south to Midshipman round-a-bout then north to the Seahorse Shopping Plaza where the walk ends. 12 noon Steak-Out begins until 5pm. fahs.bmeswarrior@gmail.com for info.

May 26: Church of the Good Shepherd Luncheon at the church, 2pm. Call 353-7661 for details.

June 21: 3rd Annual West End Snapper Tournament and fun family festival. Head west!

June 23-27: Sir Jack Hayward Premier League Soccer Camp The island's most popular summer camp. Click HERE to download the registration form.

June 28: 8th Grand Bahama Cyclists Club's Road Cycling Championship With distances up to 100 miles for the Cat 1 men!

June 28-29: Bahamas Dance Theatre pulls out all the stops with a fantastic show at the Regency Theater. A sell-out every year!

June 29: GB Fam Jam Cultural Expo & Concert in Goombay Park.

August 1-4: Freeport High/BMES 49th Anniversary events - Contact fahs.bmeswarrior@gmail.com for the schedule.

August 16: BASRA Swim Marathon & Beach Party Annual fundraiser for our Grand Bahama-based search and rescue organisation. Held at Coral Beach.

November 1: Conchman & Iron Kids Triathlons at Taino Beach - the perfect race for newcomers and the perfect place for all ages to enjoy the sport!

Get your Grand Bahama event listed in the Bahama Islands Info Calendar for free! Just write to info@bahamaislandsinfo.com with all the relevant information.

NOTE: All dates, times, locations and other details are subject to change.
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FAMILY ISLANDS & ABACO EVENTS

March 29: James Bond Casino Royal Party at Staniel Cay. Come in costume to this popular annual event. Click HERE for details.

April 6-10: 'Hang 'em High Fishing Tournament on CAT ISLAND. Contact Tourism for info.

April 22-26: 61st National Family Islands Regatta in Elizabeth Harbour, George Town, EXUMA.

April 24-27: NFL HOF Alumni fishing tournament BIMINI Big Game Club Resort & Marina event. Contact reservations@biggameclubbimini.com, 1-800-867-4764 and 1-242-347-3391.

May 7-10: Bahamas Billfish Championship GUANA CAY Visit http://bahamasbillfish.com

May 21-24: Bahamas Billfish Championship GREEN TURTLE CAY Visit http://bahamasbillfish.com

June 4-7: Bahamas Billfish Championship TREASURE CAY Visit http://bahamasbillfish.com

June 7: Pineappleman Triathlon Swim, bike, and run in and around Gregory Town, ELEUTHERA in this friendly triathlon. Party after at the Pineapple Festival! Click HERE to visit the event FB page.

June 18-21: Bahamas Billfish Championship MARSH HARBOUR Visit http://bahamasbillfish.com

June 25-29: Treasure Cay Billfish Tournament New date and format for 31st Annual tournament held at Treasure Cay, ABACO. Click HERE to visit the website.

July 3-10, 2014: Regatta Time in Abaco Click HERE to visit the website.

Get your Family Island event listed in the Bahama Islands Info Calendar for free! Just write to info@bahamaislandsinfo.com with all the relevant information.

NOTE: All dates, times, locations and other details are subject to change.

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Janet Bostwick gives lesson: Women in Bahamian history

First female MP shares struggles and triumphs of Bahamian women

As a woman who has carved a niche in Bahamian history, the country's first female Member of Parliament (MP), the Honourable Janet Bostwick, on Tuesday admitted her "distress" that women are still discriminated against in the constitution.

"We must fight. It diminishes the self-esteem of women, putting false superiority in a man. It saddens me. It distresses me," said Ms. Bostwick passionately, while addressing students, staff and faculty of The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI).

Speaking on the topic, 'Women in Bahamian History,' Ms. Bostwick noted that women are still paid less than men for the same job and citizenship is still a major problem.

"Under the law, if a Bahamian woman marries a foreigner and has a child outside The Bahamas, that child is non-Bahamian, but if a Bahamian man marries a foreigner, wherever, that child is a Bahamian by birth," said the former Attorney General during the Student Success Speakers' Series.

Additionally, Ms. Bostwick disclosed the discrimination she experienced when she first ran for parliament. "Many people felt a woman's place is in the home. I was supposed to be in the house - but the House of Assembly," she said to thunderous applause.

Noting that she received "outstanding support" from a number of men while campaigning, Ms. Bostwick said women must set their standards high. "Don't walk in front of a man, but don't walk behind him," she stressed.

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