Bahama Islands Info Newsletter

News :: Events :: Opportunities

VOL IV. No. 1, May 22, 2014

The team at BahamaIslandsInfo.com would like to congratulate one of our co-owners, Erik J. Russell, for his recent nomination for the second annual Bahamian Icon Awards.

We think he'd make a great Icon, best of luck Erik, we're very proud of you.

Read more via this article in the Freeport News HERE.

This week in Bahama Islands Info

National News

Nassau News

Grand Bahama News

Column: HSGB update

Family Island & Abaco News

Arts & Entertainment News

Column: At the Movies

Sports News

Column: Bahamas weekly fishing report

Letters on Carnival

Letters on Bimini

Former Governor-General gives 'thumbs up' to RBDF ship named in his honour

Former Governor-General, Cabinet Minister and accomplished sailor/boater, His Excellency Arthur Dion Hanna, gave the acquisition of the first of a fleet of new Royal Bahamas Defence Force state-of-the-art patrol craft a "thumbs up" Tuesday during a tour of the vessel.

Mr. Hanna was accompanied by Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Perry G. Christie; Minister of National Security, Dr. the Hon. Bernard Nottage and other members of the Christie Cabinet, including Minister of Transport and Aviation, the Hon. Glenys Hanna-Martin, His Excellency's daughter, during a tour of the Her Majesty's Bahamian Ship Arthur Dion Hanna.

Click here to read more

Sororities in The Bahamas join hands to #Bringbackourgirls

#Bringbackourgirls has been trending on social media sites over the last month. The hashtag has been used as a global outcry over the abduction of 284 schoolgirls kidnapped from the Chibok government secondary school in northeast Borno state, Nigeria. The initial kidnapping of 276 girls, followed by the kidnapping of 8 more has led the world to pitch in to bring back our girls.

In a show of unified support for this growing global campaign, presidents of the Nassau Bahamas local chapters of sororities, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Zeta Phi Beta and Sigma Gamma Rho joined hands in solidarity with their international organizations to say "#bringbackourgirls". The women also stand with every person fighting against any form of human trafficking, abuse and violence against women and young girls.

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Christening of Prince George stamps issued

The Bahamas Postal Service has released a set of stamps celebrating the christening of Prince George. Born July 22, 2013 and christened October 23, of that same year, Prince George Alexander Louis of Cambridge is the first child of Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge (Catherine Elizabeth "Kate": nee Middleton). Prince George is also third in line to succeed his great-grandmother Queen Elizabeth II, after his grandfather Prince Charles and his father.

Along with the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, the United Kingdom Overseas Territories of Ascension Island, British Virgin Islands, Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Tristan da Cunha, also produced a celebratory collection of stamps. Andrew Robinson designed the set of stamps issued by The Bahamas, which feature photographs of royal christening scenes.

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Bahamaren CEO joins students in educating Chinese on the Bahamas

Bahamaren has assisted, coordinated, and participated in a number of tourism events throughout the year to promote the Bahamas as a premier travel destination. The CEO of Bahamaren Latrae Rahming joined Bahamian students at the University of International Business and Economics in show chasing what the Bahamas has to offer to China from tourism, food, music, and culture. Bahamaren provided both financial and material support along with the Embassy of the Bahamas in Beijing.

Bahamaren has increased it's participation in trade shows held in key markets in China to bring together the Bahamas tourism industry and travel agents and travel wholesalers from around China. One of the biggest reasons for our presence at trade shows is the potential for sales leads.

Click here to read more

reEarth joins worldwide simultaneous demonstrations against dolphins and whales in captivity

The world is pushing back against the marine mammal industry, and standing together on May 24, 2014, in a worldwide event - "Empty the Tanks". This is the 2nd Annual event for Empty the Tanks Worldwide.

"Empty the Tanks" worldwide was launched by Rachel Carbary in 2013 and event locations have doubled in two years and now include: the Bahamas, the US, Canada, China, Japan, Germany, Dubai, Australia and Argentina. Ms Carbary developed the event after acting as one of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society activists who stood in opposition to the Taiji Dolphin Drive that slaughters thousands of dolphins annually whilst also providing wild dolphins to the captive dolphin industry.

Click here to read more

Lyford Cay International School shares unique relationship with the International Baccaaureate program

At Lyford Cay International School (LCIS), where graduates have a 100% college acceptance and where 37% of graduating students are accepted into tier 1 level universities at colleges in the United States, the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum is preparing students for the next step in their educational journey. IB students enter universities and colleges with a unique, global perspective.

David Mindorff (Head of School - Grades 7-12, Head of Curriculum and TOK- Grade 11 and 12, recently co-authored a text for IB Biology published by Oxford University Press. He is currently working on a similar text for the MYP Programme. "We teach our students to understand their role in their existing environment and beyond," explained Mr Mindorff, "And we certainly take full advantage of the unique environment that a school in The Bahamas has to offer."

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Baha Mar's Leadership Development Institute gears up for first graduation

Next week, 150 students will participate in the first graduation exercise for Baha Mar's Leadership Development Institute (LDI), a non-profit training institute supported by the luxury resort. The students, chosen from 3,500 applicants, were selected to enter the challenging program to receive training in day and evening classes as part of Baha Mar's multimillion-dollar investment in training and recruiting Bahamians for more than 4,000 jobs.

The 16-week day classes, for men and women ages 16-to-24 years, provided communication skills and soft skills such as time management that can enable them to better function as employees in the workplace.

Click here to read more

Billfish Grill opens at Palm Cay

More than 100 dignitaries, residents and guests ate, drank and toasted to the success of Billfish Grill at Palm Cay last week, celebrating the opening of the first new upscale restaurant in New Providence in many years.

For many, it was an opportunity to sample the delicacies prepared by Chef Anthony Carey, who cooked his way halfway round the world before returning to Nassau to create a menu under the watchful direction of Billfish Grill partners restaurateur Peter Rounce and fresh food culinary specialist Lise Watson-Russell, who built her reputation with original dishes at Chives, Blake Road.

Click here to read more

'Shock Treatment' boys get a view of technical education at BTVI

As a part of the Ministry of National Security's Shock Treatment program, a group of 22 at-risk boys were recently exposed to several disciplines while touring The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI). "To see the amount of young people in prison isn't thrilling. If we don't save them now, we'll have to manage them later," said the program's Director, Pastor Carlos Reid.

The boys, ages 11 to 17, are among the first to participate in the intervention program which will see a new installment of vulnerable young males on a monthly basis. Meanwhile, BTVI's Dean of Construction Trades, Alexander Darville, encouraged the boys, telling them they do not have to be a product of their environments. "You have to think about the end results. The mere reason you are here today shows that someone cares. BTVI is an institution where you can come, get a discipline and make some money," said Mr. Darville.

Click here to read more

Deep Water Cay diving featured on national TV

It's not everyday that you get to see amazing Bahamian dive sites on TV, but Deep Water Cay (DWC) is changing that thanks to a national TV story that aired on Fox Sun Sports Network last weekend via ScubaNation reaching 5,000,000 households. Deep Water Cay 'Private Diving Paradise' was the title of the show, which featured Deep Water Cay divemaster and now celebrity diver, Phillip Russell, as he took the team from ScubaNation on a two-day diving and snorkeling trip in East End, Grand Bahama.

"The experience with ScubaNation was unbelievable," commented Russell. "Although I didn't really like being on TV before, they changed all of that, and I can't wait until the episode starts airing at Deep Water Cay."

Click here to read more

GBPA committed to safeguarding natural treasures

The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) is a proud sponsor of one of the Bahamas National Trust's newest fundraising initiatives entitled, 'The Bahamas, Naturally'. This high-quality, glossy, informative and entertaining publication is being introduced by BNT as an annual keepsake, capturing stunning images of nature's wonders in The Bahamas, as well as stories written by seasoned writers, scientists, marine biologists and celebrities.

Making the donation was GBPA Vice Chairman, Sarah St. George, who commended BNT for their efforts, as well as the production of such a quality magazine. "The role of the Bahamas National Trust is vital to the sustainability of our natural environment. They are unswerving in their hard work to protect our country's species, flora and fauna, along with the operation and monitoring of numerous national parks," she stated.

Click here to read more

American Women's Club donates to BNT's Summer Safari

The American Women's Club recently made their annual donations to all of the non-profit organisations they support, including the Grand Bahama branch of the Bahamas National Trust (BNT). Their donation will help five children from the Grand Bahama Children's Home to attend the BNT's summer camp in Grand Bahama.

"The Grand Bahama Branch of the BNT is extremely grateful to the American Women's Club for their generous contributions over the years," said Cecilia Bodie, Education Officer. "This year's summer camp will feature some exciting and adventurous expeditions. This generous donation will allow students who would not have been able to participate to take part in this summer's exciting activities."

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Grand Bahama Regatta and Heritage Festival preparations in high gear

The Grand Bahama Regatta and Heritage Committee have been busy preparing for this year's event set to take place at Taino Beach on July 18th and 19th. Under the leadership of committee chairman Chervita Campbell, the team is determined to make this year's Regatta the best ever, and the entire Grand Bahama community is encouraged to get involved and support the continuance of a sloop sailing regatta for the island.

The Regatta will host A, B, and C classes of sloop sailing on July 18th and 19th off Taino Beach. There will be junior sailing, sculling, and races. This year's heritage component, led by Pleasant Bridgewater, will make for an exciting addition. The Heritage Committee is busy planning to ensure that there will be ample native food, entertainment, and activities such as plaiting the maypole, etc., as well as arts and crafts on display. Bahamian recording artist, Stileet has been confirmed to perform on Friday evening.

Click here to read more

Rotary Club of GB Sunrise hosts successful annual Cigar Nights event

Over 300 people turned out Saturday evening, May 17, 2014 and had a fabulous time at a vintage Havana-themed "Cigar Nights" event at Pelican Bay Hotel's Canal House to support Rotary of GB Sunrise's youth mentoring program, the Safe Swim program, and Cat's Eye road reflector work. Latin music was provided by a band featuring Steve Persaud, Clarence Green, Larry Lewis, and Marina Gottlieb Sarles, together with a special performance by the teens at Columbus House who have been taking music lessons as part of the ongoing youth mentoring in the Big Brother/Big Sister program.

Latin-themed food, salsa dancing, hand-rolled cigars courtesy of Graycliff, Nassau, a appearance by Miss Grand Bahama, and rum sampling also rounded out the popular party-which included lots of fun photo props and opportunities to show off fedoras and vintage Havana-inspired fashion.

Click here to read more

Microchips now available at the HSGB

Microchipping your dog or cat can make all the difference in being reunited should your pet become lost. Collars and tags can come off but a microchip is a permanent ID method and most shelters and vet offices around the world now scan all incoming found pets for microchips. Microchips are also required for anyone wishing to take their pet back to Europe or the U.K., for example.

The process of chipping your dog or cat is simple and quick and no more painful than getting a vaccination shot. The microchip itself is about 12mm or about the size of a grain of rice. It's made of a bio compatible glass that the animal's body will almost always accept. The encased chip itself is passive, meaning it's not transmitting anything and has no internal power source.

The cost for our SmartTag microchips are $65 and discounts will be offered to HSGB adopters, past and future. Please call the shelter at 352.2477 for more information or to make an appointment.

Click here to read more

'Junka-Fest' receives corporate backing from GBPA

Junka-Fest is the newest cultural event to be launched in Grand Bahama. According to event organizers, "Junka-Fest is the amalgamation of Junkanoo, Goombay, regatta and the heritage festival, to be held at one time and one location." Slated for Friday June 6th, from 12 noon until, Goombay Park will be transformed into a native village. Guests entering will be transported back in time to take a historical journey through all things Bahamian, invigorating the senses of taste, sight and sound.

Brainchild of the event, Junkanoo Promotions are also the organizers of the highly successful 'Rush For Peace' parades held annually in downtown Freeport. "Heeding the cries of our tourists, we have created another masterpiece concept that will provide additional on-island activities for tourists and locals to experience our rich heritage and culture," said Sergio Armaly, Junkanoo Promotions' Deputy Chairman.

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NEMA conducts phase II of water rescue training in Andros

The National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, conducted Phase II of its Water Rescue Training Exercise on the island, in collaboration with the United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), held April 28 to May 1, 2014. Andros was the second island to receive the training, which took place in the settlement of Nicholl's Town at the Nicholl's Town Gospel Chapel Youth Hall. USNORTHCOM donated the necessary equipment to facilitate the training and additional equipment to assist rescue teams with responding to disasters near the coast or swamplands.

The 19 participants who hailed from the community were taught how to: establish a Search and Rescue Programme, Common Skills (Rescue Organisation & Searches), handle ropes, hardware and knots, Low Angle Raising and Lowering, Simple Mechanical Advantage, Surface Water Rescue (Shore based rescue assessments, organisation and searches).

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E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival adjudications come to San Salvador

COCKBURN TOWN, San Salvador -- United Estates Primary School third-grade students recite a poem by Susan J. Wallace, during the E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival adjudications, on May 20, 2014, in Cockburn Town, San Salvador.

It wasn't just the youngsters who performed, Sandy Point resident Tramaine Knowles beat out rhythms on the drums at the Fellowship in Christ Kingdom Ministries, during the adjudications,

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Hooters calendar shoot coming to Bimini

The popular Hooters International Calendar, which sells nearly 500,000 copies annually, will feature the historic Big Game Club Resort and Marina and the beauty of Bimini as part of its 2015 edition. South Florida Hooters franchisee Dale "Champ" Regnier, a sportsfisherman and frequent visitor, worked with resort manager Michael Weber to coordinate details for the shoot, which is scheduled from June 2-5.

According to Doug Vollmer, head photographer and calendar project director, 5,000 apply to model for the annual calendar of which 300 are shortlisted for photography sessions in locales such as Bimini, the British Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands, Exumas, Abacos and Mexico. From those shoots, a final group of 200 are selected for the calendar. How many might make the calendar from the Bimini shoot?

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South Andros Public Library renamed after 'Father of The Nation'

A tribute was paid to former Prime Minister, the late Sir Lynden O. Pindling in South Andros during a ceremony Friday, May 16. Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Perry G. Christie, Cabinet Ministers and Government Officials, joined members of the Legacy Foundation (chaired by Mrs. Monique Pindling -Johnson, Sir Lynden's daughter) and the community of The Bluff, Andros at the South Andros Public Library. Prime Minister Christie said Sir Lynden's legacy should never be forgotten.

"While others may have conveniently forgotten the true measure of Sir Lynden's service, the good people of The Bluff, Andros have not." He said the re-opening of South Andros Public Library is a reminder to all who would seek to forget that The Bahamas is what it is today, in large part because of the courage and commitment of Sir Lynden "to fight for Black Bahamians, indeed for all Bahamians to be free."

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Guy Harvey: Bimini an 'environmental gem' that must be protected

World renowned marine artist and conservationist Dr. Guy Harvey has declared Bimini an "environmental gem" and urged Bahamians to do everything they can to protect it.

His statement came as concerned citizens fretted over the future of Bimini's marine ecosystem as the 450-foot long cutter suction dredger, the Niccolo Machiavelli, began excavating the sea floor to accommodate a cruise ship delivering passengers to a resort and casino. The dredging, say opponents, will wipe out some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the undersea world.

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Artist Kishan Munroe unveils new painting for Flamingo anniversary

Kishan Munroe has introduced a painting to the catalogue of the artwork of The Bahamas that will stand as a national monument, commemorating all the brave servicemen who served on HMBS FLamingo when it was attacked and sank in 1980. Munroe's "The Sinking of HMBS Flamingo" is a stark reminder of the deadliest combat action seen by the Royal Bahamas Defence Force.

On 10 May 1980, HMBS Flamingo arrested two Cuban fishing vessels for poaching in Bahamian waters. In retaliation, two Cuban fighter planes invaded Bahamian airspace and fired on the patrol boat. The Cubans sank the ship and fired on the marines still floundering in the water as they attempted to escape the attack on Flamingo. RBDF officers Fenrick Sturrup, Austin Smith, David Tucker and Edward William were killed in the attack. Fourteen other crewmen and the ship's captain made it safely to Ragged Island, after boarding one of the fishing vessels they had apprehended.

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Junkanoo community showing interest in Bahamas Carnival

The Junkanoo community showed high levels of interest in the Bahamas Carnival at the Introductory Seminar held on Wednesday, May 14, 2014. Nearly 200 Junkanoos and members of the business community turned out for the informational event held by the Bahamas National Festival Commission (BNFC) at SuperClubs Breezes. Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Daniel Johnson emphasised the broad objective of stimulating opportunity in the creative sector. He said the Bahamas has all the ingredients in music, art and culture to be a world leader in the business of carnival, and the Bahamas Carnival would only serve as the beginning of creating a wider business model for culture in the Bahamas.

The purpose of the seminar was to sensitise interested parties about the requirements to form certified companies for the carnival street parade, which is one of several signature events being planned for the spring festival in May 2015. Hopeful companies will have to raise at least $5000 in startup capital to form companies for the 2015 Bahamas Carnival along with other criteria.

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Stephen G. E. Burrows Foundation launched to maintain artist's legacy

On May 15, 2014, the Stephen G. E. Burrows Foundation was officially launched at the studio of Antonius Roberts, Hillside House on Cumberland Street. The objective of the Foundation, formed by the seven children of Mr. Burrows, LaVerne Deleveaux, Linda Treco, Stephen Burrows Jr., Lisa Bastian, Laurell Burrows, Faye Burrows and Felice Burrows, is to manage, maintain and continue their father's work, which began in 1973.

It's mission statement is: "To continue the culture of Art in Public Spaces - which became a passion of Stephen G. E. Burrows - through art donations, art education and beneficial contributions to the community of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas." Keynote speaker, Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Perry G. Christie expressed joy and privilege to speak on behalf of his long-time friend, reminiscing on the days they played together as boys on the baseball field.

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'Festival at Historic Fort Charlotte' event coming June 9

The Antiquities, Monuments and Museums Corporation is excited to launch their upcoming in-house event called Festival at Historic Fort Charlotte, a one day fun filled educational festival, on June 9th 2014, which is the Whit Monday holiday.

The festival covers the entire day with a plethora of activities beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the morning and going until 11:00 p.m. that night. All activities will take place on the grounds at Fort Charlotte, inclusive of Fort Stanley and Fort D'Arcy. This festival will showcase many of the items and activities that were a part of everyday living in The Bahamas of old.

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At the Movies reviews Legends of Oz: Dorothy's Return

One of the taglines to this movie: Follow The Yellow Brick Road To An Amazing New Adventure. A girl awakens in her hometown after a tornado and is quickly transported back to the magical land she had only just returned from hours ago. She learns that while it has been hours for her it has been years for them and she must now fight a new villain if she want to get back home. The only question is whether she will have a home to return to if she survives this new journey and finds herself victorious.

I am not really sure what they were thinking when they made this movie since everything about it screams LACKLUSTER in every possible way imaginable.

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Team Bahamas set for IAAF World Relays

Members of Team Bahamas for the IAAF World Relays Bahamas 2014 are pictured with Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations President Mike Sands, during a press conference, May 21, at the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture.

The Relay are set for May 24-25 at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium.

(BIS Photo/Patrick Hanna)

Bonefish Bonnies make big catches at Deep Water Cay

Proving that fishing 'isn't just a guy thing' the 165 members of the Bonefish Bonnies are all about the catch! This year they returned to Deep Water Cay for their third visit with fourteen members who showed how ladies reel them in. The Bonefish Bonnies are an all-ladies angler club hailing from the Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, Florida. They named their club in honour of the first female bonefish guide in the 1940's, called Bonefish Bonnie Smith, their members range from ages thirty to eighty-five.

"What I love here is the guides really help us," said Jeanie, who caught five bonefish in one day alone. "We ladies love having the guides instruct us and share with us the secrets of their best spots and techniques to improve our game. I don't think some of our fellow fishermen listen so well," she giggled.

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Bahamas weekly fishing report from Harbourside Marine

Fishing report as of May 15, 2014

Save The Date: Tuna Classic Tournament

The annual Harbourside Marine/ Bahamas Rotary Tuna Classic tournament will be held on June 6th-7th. This is a 4 day holiday week-end. There will be weigh in stations in Nassau, Spanish Wells and Schooner Bay (Abaco). Some of the prizes include the heaviest tuna, wahoo, mahi, grand slam (tuna, mahi and wahoo combines) and snapper/grouper. There are also prizes for the top female and junior angler.

The muttonfish bite should be good this week-end.

Nassau: It has been a bit rough so there have been few reports, but in general it has been slow off shore. The reef fishing has been good for yellowtail and mutton snapper.
Abaco: Not many reports due to rough seas, but the few that have been out have caught some large mahi. There have also been some nice muttonfish caught.

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FEEDBACK: Bahamas Carnival - Two differing sides

Letter to the Editor on behalf of the Bahamas National Festival Commission

In light of concern expressed by some members of the public about the Bahamas Carnival, The Bahamas National Festival Commission (BNFC) would like to provide assurance that our team of professionals from the cultural and corporate sectors are working methodically and meticulously to ensure Bahamas Carnival 2015 is a national success.

All members of our team are fully aware, there is a lot to do in a short period of time, so the pace of our roll out will hasten in due course, particularly to dispel some of the misinformation circulating in the public sphere.

Click here to read more

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Pam Burnside on Bahamas Carnival

It has been almost a year since I have put pen to paper to write in response to the former Mardi Gras debacle that has now morphed into Bahamas Carnival and I am very happy to see that other artists, such as KB and Dionne Benjamin-Smith, have taken up the mantle and are making their dissenting voices heard loud and clear!

I would behoove those persons in charge to listen carefully to these citizens' concerns and address these issues. Bahamian citizens feel slighted and justifiably outraged by the direction this event is taking, and they are standing up for their rights and demanding that 'WE TINGS' gets the respect it deserves.

Click here to read more

What's 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.

May is Lupus Awareness Month - Click HERE to visit the FB page for all the plans!

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

May 24: DragonFlowers for kids - At the NAGB for ages 12 and under. Contact Ms. Benjamin at 328-5800/1.

May 24: 18th Annual Student of the Year Awards - 6pm at Golden Gate Assemblies, Carmichael Rd.

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.

May 28: Moments & Movements - 6pm to 9pm at The D'Aguilar Art Foundation, Virginia Street. Artwork by Bahamian artist Angelika Wallace-Whitfield.

May 31: Cancer Society Ball - at the Melia Nassau resort. Call the Cancer Society of the Bahamas at 242-323-4482.

June 1: Live, Love, Model, Dance! - Two shows at the Atlantis showroom. Click HERE to view the poster or call Yodephy 394-6209.

June 1: Miss Teen Bahamas International Pageant - 8pm Wyndham Nassau Resort. Call 393-0403 for more info.

June 5: Nassau Facades Exhibit - Opening 6-9pm at the NAGB. Call 328-5800 for more details.

June 14: Jay Leno at Atlantis - Visit the box office or call 363-6601 before it sells out!

July 13: 2014 Independence Road Race - Contact Barron Musgrove npcyclingassociation2013@gmail.com for more information on this exciting 2-wheel event.

September 13: Give a Child a Ride Cycling Charity Tour - Second annual event for cyclists of all levels. Click HERE to visit the website.

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

May 24: Walk for Lupus - Fun walk starts at 7am downtown parking lot by bus depot. Click HERE to view the poster for pre-registration information.

May 24: Every Girl Can Conference - For girls ages 10-14. 9:30-12:30pm at Canal House, Pelican Bay. Click HERE to view the poster.

May 24: Rugby: Old Boys vs Atlanta at the FRFC pitch on Settlers Way. Kick-off at 4pm, refreshments available.

May 24: 'Gone with the Wind' farewell party for David at the Sailing Club.   $25.00 per adult $10.00 for kids -includes one drink. Funds will go to supporting Junior Sailing. From 6.30 pm.

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

May 31: Butterflies at Lunch - Lupus awareness event at Pelican Bay 11am-3pm. Click HERE to view the poster for all the details.

May 31: Humane Society Pub Quiz - at Red Beard's Pub. Click HERE to view the poster. Use your knowledge to support our four-legged friends!

June 6: Junka-Fest - from 12 noon until, Goombay Park will be transformed into a native village. Click HERE to read more.

June 8: Ol' Freetown Farm Family Fun Day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Click HERE to view the poster for info.

June 14: Glow Party - A Y.A.R.D. drama group event at the Regency Theater. Look for more info on Facebook.

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! Contact gb-cyclist@hotmail.com for more information.

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.

July 18-19: Grand Bahama Regatta and Heritage Festival - at Taino Beach. A, B, and C classes of sloop sailing, junior sailing, sculling, and races. Plus, a new heritage component! Click HERE to read more.

July 21-August 1: Camp Center Stage - Application forms coming soon. $100 per week lunch included. At the Regency Theater.

July 26: Body Builders Show - At the Regency Theater. More information as the date approaches.

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

August 11-15: Pot Cake Pals Summer Camp - at the Humane Society of Grand Bahama. More details to follow, save the dates for your kids!

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!

November 1: Annual Red Rose Ball - HIV/AIDS education fundraiser and a night of glamour.

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

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

May 22: Goombay Summer Festival at Sea Spray Resort - ABACO. Call 366-0065 for schedule.

May 23-24: Art on The Island - BIMINI. Locally made authentic Bahamian products, live music performances, Junkanoo and native foods enable visitors and residents to experience two full days - in Alice Town. Bimini Tourist Office / (242) 347-3526.

June 1 & 15: Bahamas Boating Fling: BIMINI - These annual guided crossings to The Bahamas bring many repeat and first-time visitors in flotillas of up to 30 boats. Contact: Mr. Richard Treco, Plantation Tourism Office / (954) 326-9292 or Big Game Resort & Guy Harvey Outpost, Bimini / (242) 347-3391.

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

June 4-9: Palmetto Point Homecoming Festival - ELEUTHERA. Activities include live band performances, fashion and cultural shows, an art competition and games. Contact: Ms. Susan Culmer / (242) 332-2115.

June 5-9: Barraterre Festival & Homecoming - EXUMA. Three days of sailing, games like Hoopla, quadrille dancing, plaiting of the Maypole, delicious native dishes on sale, native crafts on display, Rake and Scrape music, plus other exciting entertainment including the Marching Band and a Talent Show. Contact: Ms. Mildred Lloyd / (242) 357-0786, (242) 336-2677.

June 5-9: Ramsey Homecoming Festival - EXUMA. DJ, a kiddies' corner, hoopla, and punch board. Native dishes such as crab and rice, macaroni and cheese and baked chicken will be on sale in the settlement of Ramsey. Contact: Mr. Barry Ramsey / (242) 345-7032.

June 5-9: Deep Creek Conch Fest - ELEUTHERA. Down home cooking, Rake and Scrape music, talent shows, arts and craft. Contact: Ms. Donnalee Miller / (242) 332-2142.

June 6: Labour Day Fair - EXUMA. Native dishes will be on sale, plus the kids will enjoy games such as hoopla, the bouncing castle and punch board. Venue is the grounds of St. Margaret Anglican Church in the settlement of Harts. Contact: Ms. Daphne Rodriquez / (242) 336-2130.

June 6: Long Island Sheep Runner's Bike, Run and Walk - Start at Regatta site at 6:30AM Sharp BIKE: 30 miles RUN: 6 miles WALK: 4 miles. Entry Fee: Adults $20.00 School Children: $5.00 Contact Carol Fox cfox289@gmail.com for more info.

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 13-14: All Andros Crab Fest - celebrates the crab-catching ways of Andros island, which is referred to as "The Land of Crabs." Highlights include land crabs cooked in 101 ways, a crab cultural show, releasing of the crabs, a crab culinary contest, crabs of Andros life cycle display, and Rake & Scrape Music. Venue is Queen's Park in Fresh Creek, Central Andros, which is 2� miles from the Andros Town Airport. Andros Tourist Office / (242) 368-2286, (242) 368-2891.

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.

June 26-29: Guy Harvey Outpost Beach Bash Bonfire and Tournament - at the Bimini Sands Resort & Marina. Fishing competition, scuba diving, family entertainment, and bonfire events. www.GuyHarveyOutpost.com/BeachBash.

June 27-28: Percy Darville Bottom Fishing Tournament - Great Harbour Cay, BERRY ISLANDS. Click HERE to view the poster or call 367-8005.

July 4: US Independence Visitors Reception - BIMINI. A cultural exchange in appreciation of visitors to the island, featuring Bahamian food, arts & craft and music - Alice Town. Bimini Tourist office / (242) 347-3529.

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

July 5-10: All Andros & Berry Islands Regatta - Traditional Bahamian wooden sloops are featured at this event, and the highlight will be the Class A, B & C boat race. Venue is the Regatta Village in Morgan's Bluff, North Andros, which is 20 miles from the San Andros Airport. Contacts: Mr. Alphonso Smith (242) 329-2336, (242) 329-2278 / Mr. Frank Hanna (242) 323-2451, (242) 325-3306 / Administrator's Office (242) 329-2278.

July 30 - August 4: Hatchet Bay Festival - ELEUTHERA. Activities include marching band performances, a worship service, a Little Miss Hatchet Bay Beauty Pageant and games. Contact: Mr. Mario Smith at (242) 356-1842.

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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Letters pour in urging gov't ministers to put a stop to Bimini dredging

Letters addressed to Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Perry G. Christie, Hon. Kenred Dorsett (Minister of the Environment), Hon. Obie Wilchcombe (Minister of Tourism, and Member of Parliament for Bimini), and Hon. V. Alfred Gray (Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources) have poured in to the local media outlets expressing concern over the dredging operation in Bimini.

In addition to letters from local businessmen, engineers, and other concerned citizens which can be found throughout this newsletter in the Family Islands News and news links sections, below are samples from some of those letters addressed to the Government of The Bahamas.

Dear Mr. Christie,

I have been reading with mounting horror and helplessness about the massive degradation and destruction of the beautiful God given marine environment at Bimini. I find it very hard to believe that NO ONE in government is heeding the dire predictions and warnings of not only lay environmentalists, but qualified and respected marine scientists.

Everything that has made Bimini the attraction it has always been is being thrown aside and destroyed for the sake of money in the pockets of foreigners. A casino can be built anywhere. The fragile corals and marine environment that has been a huge attraction for decades for visitors and locals alike cannot be found just anywhere.

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For over a decade, my family has owned 2 homes on the Island of Bimini. I can not think of a more wonderful place to spend the summers and vacation with my children than on that little Island. Lately, plans have been proposed and put into action that will change this island forever in a detrimental way, not only to it's inhabitants, but also to the surrounding ecology.

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Please stop the terrible dredging in the Bimini Resort area. I used to come every other year for 2 weeks to Bimini islands but since that development started to destroy the natural beauty of Bimini and its eco-system I see no point. I cannot think that you really believe destroying the ocean ecosystem is the way forward for your tourism plans in the smaller outer islands, you cannot realistically support anything but ecotourism here in the long term.

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I have, with great disbelief, been reading the articles and viewing the soul-destroying photographs circulating in not only local media, but also international media and social media and I can assure you that the reaction is far from positive. These photographs speak volumes as to the irrevocable damage that is undeniably being done to what was once a gem in The Bahamas. As a Bahamian, I find these photographs very hurtful and embarrassing. We have a natural beauty that is hard to surpass; our crystal clear oceans teaming with a great variety of marine life and our beautiful beaches make us the envy of many around the world.

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I have been following the news regarding the dredging being done in Bimini and am truly disgusted. I have visited Bimini many times and enjoyed its wondrous sea life and beautiful Bahamian culture. I cannot imagine how these massive development projects have been approved in Bimini, as I know they will certainly destroy the reefs and its vibrant culture.

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