Bahama Islands Info Newsletter

News :: Events :: Opportunities

VOL IV. No. 2, May 29, 2014

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

Letter: K.B. writes

Fallen American and Bahamian members of the armed services honoured during wreath-laying ceremony on Memorial Day

On Monday, May 26, representatives from the United States Embassy, Bahamian counterparts in law enforcement and other government officials came together in solemn tribute at the site of the Memorial to Patrol Squad 23 to honour the memory of the 10 United States crew members who lost their lives during a fateful training mission off the coast of Nassau on May 7, 1954. Later that same year, the Clifton Pier monument was erected in honour of the lost Sailors of MA-5.

Among the officials on hand to mark the occasion, U.S. Chargé d'Affaires John Dinkelman, Governor General Sir Arthur Foulkes and Lady Foulkes, Major General Walter Roy, Deputy Commanding General, U.S. Army North, Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, The Hon. Philip Davis, Minister of National Security, Dr. The Hon. Bernard Nottage, Commodore of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force Roderick Bowe, family members of the fallen sailors and the Bahamian servicemen.

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Autism Month memories - Tears and laughter linger long after

A few decades ago, few knew what autism really was or how it affected children and their families. But as the number of young people diagnosed with a level of the spectrum grew, so did the awareness. And in The Bahamas that was thanks in no small part to parents who wanted what every dedicated parent wants - the best way forward for their child. It was they who formed the organization called R.E.A.C.H., resources and education for autism and related challenges.

Now approaching its 15th anniversary, REACH has not only come into its own - it is attracting the attention of everyone from the Governor General to a practicing lawyer, the Prime Minister to the successful businessperson who is no longer afraid of revealing that they have a child with autism or that they adore that child and treasure every moment of interaction.

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Trained teachers commissioned at COB ceremony

More than 100 School of Education graduands - members of the Spring 2014 Commencement Class of The College of The Bahamas - have pledged to promote equity in education and uphold its noble standards at the Teachers' Commissioning Ceremony held on Tuesday in the foyer of the Harry C. Moore Library and Information Centre. Like other graduands before them, the aspiring teachers were charged to serve with integrity and infuse the classrooms and schools to which they will be assigned with their passion for excellence, integrity and discipline.

"Our nation will expect you to provide each and every student with the kind of classroom experience that will stimulate their intellect and their curiousity, ignite their passion for learning, inspire them to excel, as it is these types of citizens who will impact meaningfully the development of their communities and, indeed, the world," said Acting President of The College of The Bahamas Dr. Earla Carey-Baines.

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Tourism Minister joins Sandals executives at travel event in Los Angeles

The Honourable Obie Wilchcombe, Minister of Tourism for the Bahamas received a rapturous reception following his keynote speech at Sandals Resorts International's travel agent unveilings in Los Angeles this week.

Having whipped the 400-strong crowd comprising some of North America's top travel agents, into a frenzy of excitement, the Minister enjoyed a standing ovation for a speech that championed the Caribbean as a destination and praised the travel trade and Sandals Resorts for their contribution to its development.

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Groups to unite for Freedom of Information rally

Activists, environmentalists and trade unions are set to come together on June 11 to call for the immediate implementation of a Freedom of Information Act. Groups that have signed up for the "Stand Up for a Freedom of Information Act" rally so far include: Bahamas Against Crime, the Trade Union Congress, Bimini Blue Coalition, National Citizens Coalition, reEarth, Bahamas Against Sexual Violence and Child Abuse, and the Bahamas Humane Society. Several other groups have been invited.

The event is being organized by Save The Bays, the fast-growing national movement that has championed the cause of the public's right to know. It will take place from 8am-2pm in Rawson Square.

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Sandyport Hotel boasts 100% occupancy thanks to IAAF World Relays

The staging of the IAAF World Relays in The Bahamas translated to excellent occupancy levels for the month of May for the Sandyport Beaches Resort and Hotel, the boutique hotel on Nassau's western coastline known for its Bahamian charm and serenity. Vernon Moss the hotel's General Manager said that this has been a record breaking May week for the resort and thanked the IAAF for organising such a tremendous event. "We always do very well and our occupancy has continued to rise over the years, in fact we are having an excellent year so far with 5% year on year growth in occupancy."

The New York Times travel section on March 13th recommended Sandyport Beaches Resort and Hotel as a "serene" place to stay when in Nassau. Travel writer Brendan Spiegel included the popular resort in an article featuring 11 of the islands best attractions for the tourist seeking a subtler, more authentic Bahamian experience.

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Doctors Hospital earns JCI re-accreditation

Late last year, Doctors Hospital underwent another rigorous round of scrutiny by a team from the Joint Commission International to ensure that the healthcare provider continues to uphold the highest international standards set forth by the accreditation body. In 2014 Doctors Hospital is proud to remain the only acute care health care facility in the entire Caribbean region to boast having this international seal of accreditation.

"Health care organizations around the world want to create environments that focus on quality, safety and continuous improvement," says Paula Wilson, president and chief executive officer, JCI. "Accreditation meets this demand by stimulating continuous, systematic improvements in an organization's performance and the outcomes of patient care. The community should be proud that Doctors Hospital has made a commitment to quality and safety."

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Custom Computers holds seventh annual 'A's for Excellence' campaign

Custom Computers Ltd. is once again proud to reward excellence in education through their annual "A's for Excellence" campaign. Students studying at the primary, secondary and tertiary level at registered institutions throughout The Bahamas are eligible to enter. No purchase is necessary. Every student who earns at least one "A" Grade or its equivalent in his or her final report card for the 2013/2014 academic year may enter for a chance to win an exciting prize.

New to the campaign this year: The Family Island school with the most entries will receive a state-of-the art multifunction machine (fax/printer/scanner/copier). "This event is very important to us each year and we warmly encourage all Bahamian schools and colleges to participate as a way of rewarding our many talented students who work hard every day to excel in their studies," said Custom Computers Director Pia Farmer.

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Girl power takes over in Grand Bahama

More than 100 girls took part in the first Every Girl Can Bahamas Conference in Grand Bahama. The inspirational event was designed especially for girls to encourage them to stand tall, reach high and dream big. The Honourable Senator Tanisha Tynes kicked-ff the event with an encouraging prayer and welcome as the girls got excited for the three feature presenters that would follow. Yasmin Anderson-Smith - civility expert, author and founder of Every Girl Can Worldwide based in the United States - presented the guidelines for being a "Yes I Can Girl".

Allie MacPhail, an author and family therapist out of Nassau, gave an uplifting and light-hearted talk on the "Art of a Selfie" which triggered the girls into a 'selfie-craze' of taking self portraits throughout the day. Grand Bahama's own Kerel Pinder had the conference room rocking as she used music and dancing to inspire the girls in attendance reminding them that their life has a purpose.

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Grand Bahama Shipyard succeeding worldwide

Gathering together his staff for the annual mid-year review, CEO of the Grand Bahama Shipyard (GBS) Carl Rotkirch congratulated his team on a successful year so far. Highlighting the yard's ever-improving safety record, the reduction of time lost on the job and the increase of safety vigilance, he noted that, "Besides the work we knew about, we were all able to adjust to unexpected work - and we figured out how to get more ships on our docks, plus repair the largest cruise ship in the world, in less than 5 days!"

Rotkirch celebrated that the yard had been full in January, February, and April, with over 50 ships repaired thus far in 2014. They had a good safety record as well. Over 100 apprentices are working and learning at the yard, and this summer they will take on twenty summer apprentices from local Government programs. He also advised that the management team has been in development training courses and there had been a few organisational changes.

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Callenders names new Grand Bahama partner

Callenders & Co, the country's oldest law firm, has announced the appointment of its newest partner, civil litigator Jacqueline H. Banona. Ms. Banona practices in Grand Bahama.
"We are pleased to announce the appointment of Jackie Banona who becomes the third partner in our Freeport office," said Fred Smith, QC, Managing Partner, Grand Bahama. "From the moment she joined Callenders, Jackie was an instant fit and as we got to know her better, her dedication, the depth of her intellect, her thoroughness and her ability to grasp the details of the most complex case impressed everyone. As a litigator, she is a tiger, a very tough opponent and in this profession, that's the highest compliment you can bestow on someone."

Ms. Banona was born in Uganda, East Africa. She obtained her Bachelor of Laws Degree at Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda where she completed her post graduate Bar Course at the Law Development Centre.

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Lots of activities coming up at the Humane Society of Grand Bahama

Lots going on these days at the Humane Society. We have had a record number of animals enter our shelter so far this year; 487 dogs and puppies and 67 cats and kittens, and that's just through April! We're excited about our new Board of Directors and their enthusiasm and look forward to better days, with their help and the support of the community.

Potcake Pals Summer Camp 2014: Your kids will learn from an on site vet,animal care, puppy obedience,why we spay and neuter,what the Humane Society is all about and what we do on a daily basis and much much more. We have fun activities lined up for them - visits to the Garden of the Groves, Ol' Freetown Farm,Beach Day and lots of arts and crafts.

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BNT seeks creation of five new national parks on San Salvador

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) is working with the San Salvador Living Jewels Foundation, a local conservation organisation in San Salvador, to expand the National Parks System to include five areas in San Salvador. Two of these sites are Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) Key Biodiversity Areas; Grahams Harbour and Cays, and the Southern Great Lake, important for nesting migratory seabirds, and are habitats for the critically endangered San Salvador Rock Iguana.

Jermaine Johnson, the BNT's Education Officer in San Salvador, has made a number of presentations at various schools on the island about the proposed national parks, and more recently, took students from The San Salvador Central High School on a tour, to provide more insight into the ecosystems in The Bahamas, and especially San Salvador.

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Bimini dredging halted by Privy Council

The controversial dredging operation in Bimini, which concerned citizens say is threatening some of the most pristine and ecologically significant reefs in the region, has been brought to a halt with the granting of an injunction late last week by the Privy Council in London. The order to stop all dredging activities, which went into effect immediately, will stay in place until the developers, Resorts World Bimini (RWB), can demonstrate they have satisfied all the conditions for a the granting of a permit under the Conservation and Protection of the Physical Landscape of the Bahamas Act (CPPLB).

Declaring a major victory for advocacy group Bimini Blue Coalition (BBC), their lawyer Fred Smith, QC, said: "This is a significant step in the effort to save the vital natural resources of Bimini and defend the integrity of the rule of law in The Bahamas. Hopefully, political leaders will come to realize that they do not have the right to bypass the safeguards and protections built into our laws when granting approvals to developers. We are very happy with the court's decision, and will continue to hold the government's feet to the fire in an effort to protect the interests of Bimini's unique community and precious environment."

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Abaco Defenders stop clearing of land that may be remains of first Loyalist settlement in Abaco

The Abaco Defenders banded together to stop the clearing of land on private property that may be the remains of Carleton settlement, the first Loyalist settlement in Abaco. The group approached the operating bulldozer, stood in front of it with cameras running until it shut down. The group was able to explain their concerns to the operator and the General Manager of Treasure Sands, Tim Blakely. "After our discussion Mr. Blakely said that no further clearing would take place on the site until further archeological surveying could be done," said Ossie Hall, vice president of Abaco Defenders.

On May 4th Dr Keith Tinker and senior archaeologist Dr Michael Pateman of the Antiquities Monuments and Museums Corporations (AMMC), visited the site of the proposed expansion of Treasure Sand Club and Spa. The site might also be part of the site of Abaco's first loyalist settlement.

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Governor General visits North Andros

Governor General Sir Arthur Foulkes and Lady Foulkes made an official visit to North Andros May 9, 2014, where they attended a Special Assembly at the Bertram A. Newton Primary School in Red Bays.

They also took the opportunity to tour and view the progress being made in the development and construction of the Bahamas Agricultural and Marine Science Institute. In addition, Sir Arthur brought special remarks to the students of North Andros High School.

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Elbow Reef Lighthouse celebrating 150 years with June 24 event

The Lighthouse Society is going to recognize this milestone by producing a celebration that will take place on Tuesday, June 24th, 2014. 3:00pm to 8:00pm at the site of the Elbow Reef Lighthouse, on Elbow Cay, Abaco, Bahamas. The celebration will include artists, fun packed activities, historic education, boutique items, food and drinks to mark this historic occasion.

The Elbow Reef Lightstation is the ONLY remaining lighthouse in the world to be manually operated and fueled with kerosene. This iconic, red and white lighthouse is known and loved throughout Abaco and the world. This festival will commemorate its 150th birthday.

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Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina reports record Memorial Day weekend

Management at the historic Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina, www.biggameclubbimini.com, reported a record breaking Memorial Day Weekend with just over $100,000 in sales, including rooms, food and beverage dockage. "We maximized every profit source at the resort," said Michael Weber, general manager.

Overall, according to Weber, the 51-room resort is up 23% year to date through the low season, with a strong upcoming summer where several weekends are already fully booked. Weber said the resort's family business continues to build and that the restaurant and bar business remains strong.

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Culture rocks the opening of IAAF World Relays Bahamas 2014

The rhythmic and pulsating sounds of Junkanoo echoed throughout the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium as the inaugural IAAF World Relays Bahamas 2014 opened to an exciting start on Saturday May 24. Thousands gathered in the stands of the newly renovated world class-sporting arena for the historic event, the first of its kind for The Bahamas and the region.

The ceremony kicked off with an electrifying rendition of "Bahamas Experience" performed by a combined Royal Bahamas Police Force and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force bands. Then, to a medley of Bahamian songs beginning with the "If the Good Lord", the parade of flags brought the participating countries to the inner track as the spectators cheered in patriotism. Also introduced were Bahamian Olympic and IAAF medalists who lined the track, followed by a heat-stirring rendition of the National Anthem- March On Bahamaland by Angelique Sabrina.

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Bahamian fashion designer hits Hollywood, CA with new swimwear collection

Young Bahamian designer Richie McCoy debut his most recent collection, 'Androgynous' at this years Facet Fashion week. The event was held on the rooftop of the luxuries W hotel on May 16th. Scores of designers, boutique owners, models and industry lovers from across the U.S were in attendance at this year's annual event.

The blazing hot temperatures of Hollywood were nothing compared to 'The Rich' - a brand that is just a few months old is already making its mark. 'The Rich' by Richie McCoy was birthed late 2013 when the designer entered and won the FashArt competition. As a result of sharing his official brand photos via social media, Richie received an email from the producer of Facet Fashion week requesting his attendance at this year's event.

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Guillaume to present 'Dancing in the Light' exhibition

Bahamian master documentary/fine art/photographic artist Guillaume (Margaret) is finalizing plans for an exhibition of her photographs entitled "Dancing in the Light: A Symphony of Nature Revealed in My Yard" that were created 2008-2014. The exhibition will open on Tuesday, 3 June from 6pm - 9pm at Doongalik Studios, #20 Village Road.

Guillaume is a veteran news photographer and her work has appeared in newspapers and magazines in The Bahamas and internationally. As a news photographer, she has photographed Rosa Parks, Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, Princess Anne, Governors, the Mayor of New York, and covered boxing in Madison Square Garden. Throughout the years, Guillaume has documented decades of Bahamian scenes and lifestyles with her camera.

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Famed photographer Walter Iooss to host one-of-a-kind event in Exuma

Famed photographer Walter Iooss has joined forces with Grand Isle Resort & Spa to bring world-class photography instruction to one of the most beautiful places on the planet. Walter Iooss, known for his iconic shots of athletes, musicians and world leaders, will return to Grand Isle in Exuma, Bahamas from November 2 - 8, 2014 - the very spot where he shot Sports Illustrated Swimsuit 2013 just over a year ago.

"Exuma is the perfect backdrop for this experience," Iooss explained. "At this stage in my career, I'm really looking forward to imparting what knowledge I have to aspiring photographers, or anyone who is passionate about the art. We're going to have an amazing time."

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Cat Island parents sing praises of National Arts Festival

As the E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival continues its adjudications throughout the islands of The Bahamas, Cat Island residents applaud the Festival and sing high praises for their children that took part in the adjudications there, on May19, 2014. Rezel Rolle, of Dumfries, said she enjoyed seeing her daughter Brenea, a second-grade student at Dumfries Primary School, perform that day. "I was excited, she was excited, it was a joy," she said enthusiastically. "You can tell by the smile on her face that she enjoyed herself."

Denise Rolle of Bennett's Harbour agreed and said that her son Walter Paige and the other Dumfries Primary school students who danced that day also did something for the island. "I am proud to see that they are keeping up the legacy of rake-n-scrape for Cat Island," she said. "It moves on to that next generation."

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At the Movies: Godzilla

One of the taglines for this movie: A King's Arrival Is Never Silent. Due to humanity's scientific arrogance the world as we know it is threatened by malevolent creatures from the distant past. It is up to a force of nature to restore the balance to a defenseless humanity in the form of a titanic atomic breathing monster.

It is great to see Godzilla back on the big screen and to see how respectful they have been to the original design in this modern big budget reboot of the franchise. I just wish Godzilla had appeared a little bit more in his own movie. I loved the build up to us getting a full view of him, but after that full view I would have enjoyed to see him take center stage. In many ways the motion picture is played like a full disaster movie with the monsters taking the form of the earthquake, typhoon or tornado.

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Golden Knights recognised for their Penn Relay win over the US

BTC recently acknowledged local champions, the 'Golden Knights,' for their April win over the USA and an international field at the celebrated Penn Relays. The Bahamas has never won this event before this year when Chris Brown, Ramon Miller Michael Matthiew and Demetrius Pinder representing The Bahamas, won the day at the prestigious annual, oldest and largest track and field competition in the United States.

The four Olympic 2012 Relay champions won a highly competitive race compounded by a baton pass mishap that fortunately, a cool headed Ramon Miller running the last leg, championed, to bring home the Gold Medal win over the USA. The Penn Relays has been staged and hosted by the University of Pennsylvania at Franklin Field since 1895.

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Trip to Guinness Champions Cup in Miami to be reward for cream-of-the-crop players at youth soccer camp

The cream of European soccer will shortly be served up for four deserving young Grand Bahamian sports fans. The quartet, chosen from among the attendees of this year's Sir Jack Hayward English Premier League Soccer Camp, will be traveling to Miami on an all-expenses-paid trip to watch two top teams fight it out for the prestigious Guinness Champions Cup.

"This is the 10th year of what has become the most popular summer camp on the island and we wanted to mark that fact with something special for the kids to strive for. The English Premier was more than happy to help us achieve that end by supporting this trip.

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Bahamas Waste leading the charge in sports

For the past 18 months, Bahamas Waste has been a sponsor of the National Sports Authority (NSA), providing waste equipment and collection at the stadium at no charge to the government. "We think it's extremely important to give back to the community and more importantly through sports, as it can give talented youth great opportunities, like education via international sports scholarships," said Francisco de Cardenas, Managing Director at Bahamas Waste.

"We have a lot of talented people in our country, and it's important to support them in their endeavors. We are proud to support those in baseball, softball, swimming, rugby, golf, tennis, soccer, football and track."

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Lobsters Basketball Week to reunite winning team with fun for all

As the countdown to 40 Greatest Basketball Players is on, the question to be asked is where are the great teams who were the pacesetters for the growth the game of basketball?

The Lobsters Basketball Team will engage with players and Lobsters fans and the Grand Bahama players from West End to East End of Grand Bahama as the first Bahamas Basketball Championship team for Grand Bahama, The Island Lobsters 1979-1890, are the foundation for this reunion.

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8th Grand Bahama Road Cycling Championships on schedule for June 28

The 8th Grand Bahama Road Cycling Championships are on schedule for Saturday June 28th, 2014 in Freeport. This event was originally intended to have a maximum distance of 100 miles however the distance has been reduced to 73 miles in hopes to make for a more exciting and spectator friendly event.

The categories and distances per category are listed below. The starting point for this race is on the Grand Bahama Highway, near the airport roundabout, across the street from the domestic terminal which makes it easy for those who may choose to fly in that morning or who may wish to fly out directly after the race.

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Consistency pays off for Torta at Green Turtle Cay leg of Bahamas Billfish Championship

No one enjoyed the first ever Bahamas Billfish Championship tournament at Green Turtle Cay more than Joe Possillico, owner of the winning boat Torta. Joe had a great three days of fishing for Team Torta. The 61' Viking from Farmingdale, New York released three blue marlin, one white marlin and a sailfish to clinch victory in the second leg of the 2014 Bahamas Billfish Championship. Team Torta released fish each day of the tournament to earn a total of 2100 points.

Angler Bill Gardner guided Team The Boomer to a second place finish with three blue marlin releases. The 76' Whiticar from Hartford, Wisconsin released two blue marlin on day two and on day three released their third blue marlin. As is usually the case, it was an exciting final few hours of the tournament as Torta and The Boomer traded the top two spots throughout the afternoon.

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Bahamas weekly fishing report from Harbourside Marine

Fishing report as of May 22, 2014

Nassau: Captain Paul Smith reports catching a lot of tuna in the afternoon about 3 miles off of Sandyport.

North Exuma, Highbourne Cay: Despite the rough seas there have been mahi and wahoo caught in the sound this week. The winds are due to drop and shift to the southeast at 8 knots for the week-end which will make for some easy fishing!

Abaco: Kevin Sawyer reports that it has been quite windy but there have been some large mahi caught and the billfish bite has been good.

Cat Island, Hawks Nest: Lots of tuna! Lots of Mahi... Billfish bites everyday.

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FEEDBACK: K.B. writes - Another waste of the taxpayers money

My letter today is in response to a letter sent from the Bahamas Festival Committee. Firstly, I thought your letter did not speak to why we need to have a Carnival in The Bahamas funded by the Bahamian taxpayers. Secondly, you totally evaded my question on why, if we have these three major under financed festivals already,(RAKE-N-SCRAPE, GOOMBAY SUMMER and JUNKANOO), that are authentically Bahamian, then why are we investing more money on this foreign exercise called Carnival than we are in our three festival budgets combined? If I am incorrect, let me know please.

Now to your point on my Rock group "Stinkin" Wayz" winning the 2012 Global Battle of The Bands Competition here in The Bahamas and going on to represent the Bahamas in London, England. My group, Colyn McDonald, Anthony Flowers & Darrell Hurston, and I placed third in the competition; third place in the world. We did not receive one dime from the Ministry of Tourism or from the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture. We did not waste the Bahamian taxpayers' money promoting a foreign culture.

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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 30: Bloom - the College of The Bahamas' Graduate Show. 6-9pm at the Central Bank of The Bahamas Art Gallery/Frederick & Market Streets.

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 3: 'Dancing in the Light' exhibition by Margaret Guillaume opens at Doongalik Studios, #20 Village Road, 6-9pm. Click HERE to read more.

June 3: 'Totally Uninhibited' 5:30 to 8:30pm at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas. The students of ASMAC will showcase their art. The exhibition will be on display at the NAGB until Friday, June 20.

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

June 9: Festival at Historic Ft. Charlotte - Click HERE to view the poster.

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.

September 27: SWIFT Open Water Swim at Palm Cay.

November 9: UWC Triathlon - Event offers Sprint, Olympic, Pro, and Kids distances. Click HERE to visit the website.

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 30: Burger and Beer Family night at the Grand Bahama Tennis and Squash Club, 7pm. Click HERE to view the poster. Call 727-1833 for tickets.

May 31: BNT Da Market - at the Rand Nature Centre from 9am-1pm. Fresh from the garden and fresh baked treats for sale. Call 352-5438. Final Market of the season.

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 1-7: Lobsters Basketball Week - Activities include games, a fan fun day and more. Click HERE to read more and view full schedule.

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 73 miles for the Cat 1 men. All levels of riders, great for newcomers! 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

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. 'City by the Sea' hosts sloop sailing (Class B&C), swim races, fabulous food, cultural music and dance with Barraterre Beauty Dancers, D-Mac, Rhythmic Band and so much more! 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 2½ 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 24: Elbow Reef Lighthouse celebrating 150 years, ABACO. Click HERE to read all about it!

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: 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.

November 2-8: Walter Iooss photography clinic on EXUMA. Click HERE to learn more.

November 27: Thanksgiving Turtle Trot in Hope Town, ABACO. More information soon.

December 27: 242 Colour Run - Hope Town ABACO. More information soon.

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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Bahamas negotiating to host IAAF World Relays Bahamas 2015

The Bahamas Government has begun the process of negotiating to host the International Association of Athletics Federations World Relays 2015, the Minister of Youth, Sports & Culture the Hon Daniel Johnson announced.

"Bahamian officials will immediately begin negotiating its bid to host next year's event. The country has been selected but it still has to put in an appropriate bid and we are very interested in it. Negotiations are expected to be completed by the end of June," Mr. Johnson said.

He made the statement during a press conference Monday, May 27, at the Ministry of Youth Sports & Culture. The inaugural IAAF World Relays Bahamas 2014 were held May 24-25.

Another opportunity would be the discussion of the establishment of the IAAF Hall of Fame in The Bahamas, Mr. Johnson said.

The IAAF World Relays Bahamas 2014 brought together the best athletes in the world in competition at the newly upgraded Thomas A Robinson Stadium, which has a seating capacity of 15,000. In competition were about 700 athletes managed by 300 team officials from 40 countries.

The following races were held: the 4x100m, 4x200m, 4 x 400m, 4 x 800m and 4 x 1,500m with qualifying rounds for the 4 x 100m, 4 x 200m and 4 x 400m (male and female).

Three world records were set on the state-of-the-art track - the Mondo's Super X720.

Click here to read more