Bahama Islands Info Newsletter

News :: Events :: Opportunities

VOL IV. No. 13, August 14, 2014

This week in Bahama Islands Info

National News

Nassau News

Grand Bahama News

Column: Humane Society of GB update

Family Islands News

Arts & Entertainment News

Column: At the Movies

Sports News

Column: Bahamas Weekly Fishing Report

Muddasick! Why is the Port so quiet on VAT?

Gabrielle Moss named as All-Bahamas Merit Scholar for 2014

Gabrielle Moss, a 17-year-old student of Bishop Michael Eldon School, Grand Bahama, has received the title of All-Bahamas Merit Scholar for 2014. Ms. Moss is the recipient of a four-year scholarship worth $140,000 at the college of her choice. The Hon. Jerome Fitzgerald, Minister of Education, Science and Technology, made the announcement on Thursday, July 31.

Minister Fitzgerald acknowledged the Lyford Cay Foundation for its continued support of education in the development of Bahamian citizens, particularly youth. He also applauded the Central Bank for continuing to make a significant contribution to the award. To date, the Lyford Cay Foundation and the Canadian Lyford Cay Foundation have awarded over $25M in scholarships to Bahamians to study abroad and at the College of The Bahamas. They have also awarded technical and vocational scholarships to Bahamians.

Click here to read more

BNT club gives teachers lesson on the environment

Discovery Club Leaders from throughout The Bahamas recently converged in New Providence for a training symposium. The annual Discovery Club Symposium, run by the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) allows Discovery Club leaders to share experiences from the previous year and to help well as prepare new leaders who are joining the programme either at existing clubs or starting brand new clubs at their schools.

This year leaders were divided into three groups. The first group comprised leaders from - Navigators which is the high school group. The second group comprised leaders from Guardians and Explorers which are at the primary school level. The third group was comprised of new leaders just entering the programme. In total, there were seventy-seven Discovery Club Leaders with twenty-five Leaders representing Andros, Abaco, Cat Island, Eleuthera, Exuma, Grand Bahama, Inagua, Long Island and New Providence, clearly demonstrating that the Discovery Club programme is now covering a large part of The Bahamas.

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PM: Bahamas is economic majority owner of BTC

The Bahamas is once again the majority owner of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company. Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Perry G. Christie made the announcement while delivering the keynote address at 30th Annual CANTO (Caribbean Association of National Telecommunications Organizations) Conference & Trade Show, which was held at Atlantis, Paradise Island, on Sunday, 10th August, 2014.

"The Bahamas has been experiencing an interesting period of evolutionary activity in communications. We have privatized our former telecommunications incumbent, BTC; renegotiated the partnership agreement with the majority stakeholder in the BTC so that majority ownership is restored to the Bahamian people; updated our electronic communications sector policy; and positioned our resources to launch the process in short order for the award of a second cellular license in the Bahamian mobile market," said Mr. Christie.

Click here to read more

Cable Bahamas invests $3 million in major REVOICE phone network upgrade

Upgrade takes place this weekend, with brief interruption in REVOICE service expected on Sunday

Cable Bahamas has invested more than $3 million over the last year in a new Metaswitch phone switch and software that will enable new features for the more than 26,000 REVOICE subscribers and pave the way for cellular services.

"We've seen tremendous success with REVOICE," said Cable Bahamas Head of Marketing David Burrows. "And although we are nowhere near capacity, we know that we must continue our core strategy of exceeding the increasing expectations of our subscribers."

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Lil' Chefs summer programme stirs passion for culinary arts

At eight-years-old, Harmony Pyfrom already knows what profession she wants to enter. And this summer, she was working toward that goal by learning the fundamentals of the culinary arts at The College of The Bahamas' "Lil' Chefs Shack: Fun in Da Kitchen".

It was a two-week summer programme held at the Culinary and Hospitality Management Institute that teaches cooking techniques and kitchen etiquette.

"We were having fun cooking and learning how to cook with different ingredients, so that when we grow-up, if we want to be a chef we would know what to use," said Harmony, during a short break from the sessions.

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Sandyport hotel enjoys year-long record-breaking occupancy levels

Doing well is how the low-key manager of the Sandyport Beaches Resort and Hotel describes their record breaking year, with weekend occupancy levels often at 100% for the sea-side and Sandyport Marina Village hotel. Vernon Moss the General Manager at the West Nassau Sandyport Beaches Resort and Hotel states that year over year, occupancy levels are higher overall than previous years since opening in 2000.

"Especially since Easter we've noticed an increase in bookings and very often have sell-out weekends. We're seeing lots of guests from the Family Islands who come to Nassau for events or family gatherings and in June for instance, officials involved with the IAAF World Relay, pushed us to a 98% occupancy rate and we've continued with an average of 82% occupancy since then with forward reservations looking stronger than usual for August and September. Traditionally in September it slows down and I know many of the smaller hotels close in September but we won't, we're too busy."

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Melia Nassau Beach inspires re-launch of pig farm

A pig farm that had lain fallow, roofs of its pens scattered across an overgrown field, is now bursting with life, thanks to one hotel's belief in buying locally grown and produced food. Breathing new life into the piggery located in southwest New Providence is the third time in as many months that the Melia Nassau Beach has boosted Bahamian business through its commitment to local sourcing, something the hotel's Manager Andrew Tilley says works for the resort and its guests, simplifying purchasing, supporting the local economy and giving guests a taste of the country they're visiting.

If it's a win for Melia and its guests, it's an even bigger win for the farm and its owners - Lester Beneby along with Cadrington and Karen Coleby. The hotel's interest inspired them to rejuvenate the defunct but promising property leased by Beneby. Coleby re-roofed pens damaged in a hurricane, dug a second well, put in new irrigation to provide cooling showers for the pigs, brought in new stock. From one piglet freshly weaned, the farm has grown to 50 in just three months.

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Husband and wife entrepreneurs bring a sense of home to 'Sandy Shore News & Sundries' at Baha Mar

A sense of home is what a husband and wife team aims to provide to guests who will travel hundreds of miles to experience the new destination for luxury at the New Riviera, the $3.5 billion Baha Mar resort. It is Baha Mar's better-than-best service standard that will make each stay exceed expectations. Husband and wife team, Odley and Philippa Aritis, will join the retail stores at Baha Mar as the owners and operators of the sole sundry store at the resort. Attention to detail and personalized service are hallmarks of the experience that the Aritis' say they will deliver to thousands of guests from near and far who will stay and play at the Bahamian Riviera.

According to the Aritis', the name 'Sandy Shore News & Sundries' was inspired by the natural beauty of The Bahamas, its pristine beaches and waters and the iconic destination of Baha Mar. "We represent the warm culture and pride of our Bahamian people throughout the world and we believe in providing everyone who shops at Sandy Shore News & Sundries with the best service and a true flavor of The Bahamas," said Philippa Aritis.

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Early registration urged for 44th Annual Bernie Butler BASRA Swim Marathon

Excitement is in the air and along the shoreline of Grand Bahama as swimmers of all ages put the final touch on their training in advance of the 44th Annual Bernie Butler BASRA Swim Marathon - scheduled for this Saturday, August 16th, at Coral Beach.

Organisers are expecting a large turnout for the annual event which has added a new 5K distance for 2014 and are asking participants to register now to avoid the backlog at the Friday, August 15th pre-race meeting. Click HERE to download the form.

Payment can be made at the pre-race safety meeting, which begins at 6pm at Coral Beach. An informative Q & A session then will answer all swimmers' questions.
Fax entries today to (242) 352-7695 or 374-4822.

Click here to read more

BORCO and Kettering University partnership leads to success for young Bahamians

Currently 18 Bahamian students are now enrolled at colleges and universities here and abroad after been selected as recipients of scholarships from the Bahamas Oil Refining Company International Ltd (BORCO).

Since its inception in 1991, the BORCO scholarship programme has funded over $150K annually to assist many Bahamians to fulfill their dream of attending university. One such institution is Kettering University which through its Educational Experience Co-Op program allows students to spend their first four years alternating 3-month terms attending classes on campus and then working for their co-op employers like BORCO.

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PotCake Pals Summer Camp 2014 underway at the Humane Society of Grand Bahama

First day of summer camp - We had 24 children signed up for PotCake Pals summer camp 2014. Thanks to Doreen our education volunteer for coming and giving a talk on how to care for your animals. Thanks to Lisa, Sydney and Jade for helping the kids make pom poms for the cats and helping make clay models.

Day Two - We went out to Ol' Freetown Farm for a farm visit and tour. The children got to pet the Guinea pigs and rabbits, Magnolia the pony allowed the kids to come into her stable and pet her, then Mr George walked us all down to the goats to feed them, then it was around to see the chickens, peacocks and Patches the big pig. Finally Casper the friendly goat came out and he was very well behaved and loved all the attention.

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TEDxGrandBahama talks now available on YouTube

On July 05, 2014, Grand Bahama's inaugural TEDx event took place at which, four young Bahamian speakers each gave particularly insightful talks under the theme, "Bahamian Development: How can we further it?"

The at-capacity audience thoroughly enjoyed listening to the talks and having an opportunity to engage with the speakers during the moderated panel discussion. A number of persons expressed disappointment that they were unable to attend so it is with great pleasure that the organizers of TEDxGrandBahama announce that the video talks are now freely available for online viewing.

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Rotarian and security expert, Gaylord Taylor, speaks to the Rotary Club of Grand Bahama Sunrise on fraud

Fraud is a deception deliberately practiced in order to secure unfair or unlawful gain; as a legal construct fraud is both a civil wrong and criminal one. In The Bahamas, fraud is very prevalent and in fact is on the increase as fraudulent schemes become more complex and diversified. Retail stores and financial institutions such as banks and insurance companies are frequently targeted. The various methods of fraud make it a very attractive method of criminality for enterprising and intelligent individuals.

Fraud rarely attracts the full attention of law enforcement especially in The Bahamas where the common belief is "Thief from thief and God smiles" as most citizens look on this as a victimless crime. In recent years fraud within The Bahamas has affected they so called "common man" as fraudsters look for susceptible targets for their schemes.

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Kids learn about corals and climate change at BREEF San Salvador Sea Camp

"Pants can help you float" - one of the safety tips Joshua Storr and thirty-nine other campers learned at BREEF's eighth annual Sea Camp at Gerace Research Center in San Salvador held from July 21-25. During the week-long sea camp, children learned water safety skills and how climate change is affecting coral reefs and people in The Bahamas. Campers eagerly participated in activities including snorkeling and free-diving, games, crafts, science experiments and a beach clean-up.

"The best thing about sea camp is learning how much CO2 we let out in our environment and how I can reduce it to help protect the coral reefs," stated sea camper Jamillah Rolle. By the end of the camp, children also set personal goals to help slow down climate change. Daverelle Major pledged to "stop leaving on my TV when I am not watching it" and Shante Pratt wants to "grow gardens, plant vegetables, (and) ride my bike more instead of riding cars."

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John Hemingway joins anglers in Bimini for upcoming Wahoo Smackdown V

Following in the footsteps of his famous grandfather, author John Hemingway this year has run with the bulls in Pamplona and will be soon fishing the big game grounds off Bimini-the same tiny Bahamas out island where Papa Hemingway chased marlins and tuna aboard his beloved "Pilar" in the 1930s. In November, John Hemingway will return to Bimini, this time chasing speedy Wahoo as Grand Marshal of the popular Wahoo Smackdown V series, hosted by the historic Bimini Big Game Club Resort and Marina in Alice Town.

The 54-year-old Hemingway will be fishing with Tournament Director Captain Chase Camacho aboard Miss Kethleen II in the tournament, which is scheduled for November 13-14. "As a writer myself I am a great admirer of my grandfather's works and this also extends to the life he led and the places he visited," said Hemingway.

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U.S. Charg� d'Affaires Lisa Johnson discusses business entrepreneurship with youth during Andros visit

On Thursday, August 7, U.S. Charg� d'Affaires Lisa Johnson discussed business entrepreneurship with members of the Andros Youth Outreach Program and formally donated a collection of 110 books to the Central Andros District Council Office Resource Center. Office of Defense Cooperation Commander Sam Wartell and Island Administrator for Central Andros Cleola Pinder were also present at the event.

During the meeting, over 20 teenagers from the Andros Youth Outreach Program provided a presentation on a business entrepreneurship program they recently completed. Each youth presenter spoke briefly about their experience in an assigned position operating a simulated business venture under the program. Charg� Johnson presented all of the participants in the business entrepreneurship program with certificates of achievement and gave remarks promoting entrepreneurship, leadership, and teamwork.

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At the Movies: Lucy

The tagline for this movie: The Average Person Uses 10% Of Their Brain Capacity. Imagine What She Could Do With 100%. A woman is accidentally caught in a dark deal, but turns the tables on her captors by converting into a merciless warrior transmogrified beyond the limits of human logic. With the raw power at her disposal it becomes only a matter of time before she reaches a level which could destroy her or the world.

Lucy is a student turned drug mule who becomes so much more due to the dispersion of the experimental drug she was carrying throughout her internal organs and soon becomes a danger to those around her as the people who forced her into that lifestyle attempt to retrieve the product within her.

Click here to read more

For additional movie reviews click on the graphic to visit Rou�n's column.

Grand Bahama's Candice Woon shines in SCAD Rising Star program

by Gail Woon

It was September, 2010 and my 12 year old artist daughter Candice Woon took me to the College Fair at BMES in Freeport on a lazy Sunday afternoon. It was late, the event was almost over, and the last booth we saw was the SCAD (Savannah College of Art & Design) table. The SCAD spokesperson gave Candice the very thick catalogue. Candice took the catalogue to school every day and read through it during break and at lunch time. I decided to write to the school's Founder and ask about the possibility of scholarships for international students.

Fast forward to April, 2014, Candice applied to the Rising Star program and was given a partial scholarship. Thanks to her generous grandfather, Maurice Woon, she was able to attend the Rising Star program. On the last day of school at Bishop Michael Eldon School, Candice was, instead, flying to Savannah, Georgia, to register and begin her studies at SCAD. "The experience at Rising Star was beneficial to get firsthand experience of college as well as earn college credit hours and meet new people from different backgrounds with a similar mentality toward a common interest. It was awesome!" exclaimed Candice.

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International filmmaker features Nassau in educational DVD

When the new school year begins, thousands of students will be able to get a snap shot view of the Caribbean through an educational DVD, which features Nassau as one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean. The DVD - Cities of the Caribbean - was filmed by French filmmaker Patrick Baucelin in conjunction with the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO).

He said it was Nassau's old British charmed that lured in him to the downtown area. "Nassau is different because of its architecture and colours," Mr. Baucelin said. "You can tell that it has stayed true to its British roots. The people of the city also make it unique. The way they dress, the way they speak is unlike many others in the Caribbean."

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Minnis family retrospective exhibition at the NAGB

We are pleased to announce the retrospective exhibition of the Minnis Family at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas. Entitled "Creations Grace", the show includes works from Eddie Minnis, from as early as 1965 up to today; from his two daughters, Nicole and Roshanne; as well as from his son-in-law, Ritchie Eyma. Many of the 160+ works have been loaned from private collections throughout Nassau and The Family Islands thus allowing the audience to view works that have not been seen for many years and giving us a glimpse of the development of each artist's practice over time.

The exhibition runs now through November 30, 2014. The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas is located at Villa Doyle on West Hill Street, Nassau. It is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm, Sundays, 12 to 4 pm, closed Mondays and Public Holidays.

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Festival Place transforms into authentic village

The change of scenery has been good for vendors at Festival Place as more tourists seem to be interested in doing impulse buying, according to Director of Maritime Tourism Janet Johnson. The vendors were previously moved to Prince George Wharf to accommodate construction at the popular tourist attraction. But after a recent uproar from vendors, they were relocated to the courtyard at Festival Place.

To get attraction to the site, tourists were treated to a taste of Junkanoo. Ms. Johnson said it's just one of the ways entertainment would be enhanced in the area. "It's a wonderful opportunity for the vendors to interact with the passengers as they are coming and leaving. That way they can take a look at what is here before they go out shopping," she said.

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BTC and CANTO highlight Bahamian culture at conference launch extravaganza

The 30th annual CANTO Conference for information and communication technology (ICT) operators throughout the Caribbean region got off to an exciting start. With a lively opening ceremony, stimulating ministerial roundtables and engaging public/private sector dialogue the regional ICT organisation, CANTO and local host BTC both captured Bahamas' vibrant culture and offered a taste of the thought-provoking discussions promised through Thursday.

After a blessing from Rev. Ranford Patterson and the presentation of the flags of CANTO's 33 member countries by the Bahamas Defence Force Rangers, MC and BTC CEO Leon Williams introduced a string of distinguished speakers. When the formal programme ended the guests and delegates were treated to a Junkanoo rush out leading them to the doors of Atlantis' Imperial Ballroom, where the trade exhibition was held.

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Bahamas weekly fishing report from Harbourside Marine

Fishing report as of August 7, 2014: Gone Crawfishin'!

Nassau: The charter boats captains report catching some tuna offshore along with a few mahi.

North Exuma, Highbourne Cay: No reports; everybody went crawfishing.

Abaco: No reports for offshore. Most anglers have been targeting kingfish along the edge and bottom fishing.

Grand Bahama, Freeport: Doug Silvera from Reef Tours reports catching mahi and tuna offshore after the weather settled down later in the week.

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U.S. Embassy partners with The Bahamas Football Association to conduct soccer clinic with Special Olympics athletes

On Tuesday, August 5, the U.S. Embassy in partnership with The Bahamas Football Association invited Special Olympics Bahamas athletes to a soccer clinic at the new Thomas A. Robinson Stadium. In an effort to promote social inclusion for children with intellectual disabilities, players from The Bahamas National Soccer Team and the U.S. Olympic Soccer Team volunteered to teach basic soccer drills to 35 young athletes with special needs. Players from The Bahamas Under-17 Team also supported the clinic.

U.S. Charg� d'Affaires Lisa Johnson and Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Daniel Johnson were on hand for the opening session. Both gave remarks promoting the power of sports and social inclusion. Charg� Johnson emphasized the universal passion for sports allowing for full participation regardless of physical or intellectual ability and pointed out how participation in sports teaches leadership, teamwork, and communication skills that help young people succeed in all areas of their life.

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Edukarting Government School Summer Camp Programme wraps up

The Edukarting Summer Camp Programme, now in its second year, finished on August 8th. This year there was a greater mix of ages and schools ranging from 8 years old to 18 years old and it was very rewarding to see the older students mentoring the younger ones. A good display of team spirit, one of the Edukarting objectives. A good showing of girls of varying ages may have added an extra edge to the competition.

This year, the students were lucky enough to be driving on a track of reasonable length as the running track at C.I. Gibson was put to four-wheel use instead of feet. In fact, Mr. Tim Munnings, the Director of Sports for the Ministry of Youth Sports & Culture tested out his four wheel ability instead of his famous feet! With cones in place to form chicanes, the drivers had to navigate their way around the track with time penalties if they nudged or hit any one of them or incurred any other infractions.

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Olympians Sir Durward Knowles and Cecil Cooke to be honoured at special luncheon

The Bahamas Olympic Committee in conjunction with the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture pay tribute to 1964 Olympic Gold Medalists Sir Durward "Seawolf" Knowles and Cecil "Go to hell Harry" Cooke who made The Bahamas proud as its first ever gold medal winners in Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan - 50 years ago - in Sailing (Star Class).

The Olympians will be honoured at a luncheon on October 23, 2014 in the Crown Ballroom, Atlantis, Paradise Island.

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Why is the Port so quiet on VAT?

So everybody's talking about VAT but not a word from the GBPA! As they are our pseudo-government why can't they even say one thing are they looking into anything on VAT? Are we going to get any update from them? What are the directors up to? I don't get it.

And speaking of the GBPA, take down the banner please!

I was wondering if the Port Authority is going to actually take down the ripped up horrible sign that's on Seahorse road on your way to Grand Lucayan - the sign's been there forever and it looks a mess! Surely someone can take it down?

Signed,

Flapping in the Freeport breeze

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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.

thru November 30: Eddie Minnis & Family Retrospective Exhibition: At the NAGB - a retrospective exhibition featuring the work of Eddie Minnis, daughters Nicole and Roshanne and son-in-law Ritchie Eyma. Over 100 paintings: EddieMinnisandFamilyArt.

August 14: Chamber Workshop - Business Professionalism 101: Gain that Extra Edge with Kim Welcome, 9am-4pm. Call 322-2145 or 326-5443/4 for registration.

August 16: Lionfish Derby - Catch, cook, eat! At the Green Parrot, East Bay St. Click HERE to view the poster.

August 23: Cycling Summer Sprint Classic - 6:35am start at Baha Mar Blvd, to Lyford Cay and back. Levels to race and prizes for riders of all ages.

August 29-31: Paradise Music Festival at Atlantis - Day 1: Dierks Bentley. Day 2: Jewel. Day 3: Rascal Flats. Those are just the headliners, many more musical groups scheduled, click HERE for info or call 363-6601.

September 6: BIFS 38th Annual Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner - Tickets are priced at $175.00 and can be purchased at the Institute offices or online at info@bifs-bahamas.com.

September 7: Super Sprint Mixed Team Relay - A fun warm up for this year's Potcakeman Triathlon. Each team must consist of two females and two male members. Each member completes all three legs of the super sprint distance swim/bike/run. Click HERE for all the information.

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: Bahamas Red Cross Raffle Drawing - Tickets only $5 and you could win a car. Get your tickets early! Click HERE to view the poster.

September 27: SWIFT Open Water Swim at Palm Cay.

September 28: 242 Colour Run Nassau - Back for a second great year! Visit run242.com for details and registration.

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.

May 7-9, 2015: Bahamas Carnival - The dates have been set for this new event featuring four exciting musical events. Click HERE to view the poster.

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

August 15: BASRA Swim Meeting - A must-do for all swimmers! New information this year 6-6:30pm at Coral Beach. See below listing for forms.

August 16: BASRA Swim Marathon & Beach Party Annual fundraiser for our Grand Bahama-based search and rescue organisation. Held at Coral Beach. New distances offered this year! Click HERE for the entry form, HERE for the map, more info at http://basragrandbahama.com/.

August 20: GB Chamber of Commerce Luncheon - Guest speaker Mr. Gabriel Varela, General Manager, Memories Resort (Freeport). Call 352-8329 for information.

August 30: Us TOO Grand Bahama Chapter Walkathon - Contact Andrew Moxey at 727-0471 for more info.

September 12-13: Us TOO Grand Bahama Chapter Prostate Cancer Screening Clinic. Pearce Plaza, Coral Road, Freeport. Contact Don Mitchell at 727-0181 for more information.

September 20: Us TOO Grand Bahama Chapter Walkathon. Contact Andrew Moxey at 727-0471 for more info.

September 24: GB Chamber of Commerce Luncheon - Guest speaker TBD. Contact 352-8329 for information.

September 27: Da Market - Returns to the Rand Nature Center with all kinds of homegrown goodies.

September 27: Posh Paws Fashion Show - A stylish fundraiser for the Humane Society of Grand Bahama. Save the date! More info coming soon.

September 27-28: Us TOO Grand Bahama Chapter Luncheon & Golf Tournament - Contact Andrew Moxey at 727-0471 for more info on both or either.

October 4: HSGB Pub Quiz - At Red Beard's Pub. Test your team's trivia knowledge and support the Humane Society.

October 4: Rotary Club of Freeport Wine & Cheese - Second annual evening of fine wines and gourmet cheeses to raise funds for Rotary's many charitable projects. To be held at the Sailing Club. Mark the date!

October 4: The 13th Annual Grand Bahama Medical & Dental Association Scientific Medical Conference.

October 13: McLean's Town Conch Cracking - 10am-7pm. Head east for a tasty and fun tradition! Enjoy the holiday weekend.

October 18: Cancer Society Hope Ball - at The Grand Ballroom, Grand Lucayan, cocktail at 7pm and dinner at 8pm.

October 25: GBCC Annual Business Excellence Awards - Save the date and start thinking about a nominee ...

October 29: The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting & Election. Call 352-8329 for information.

October 31: Halloween Party - Third annual HSGB costume party. Plan to attend. More info soon.

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! Registration now open at www.Conchman.com.

November 2: Annual Red Rose Ball - HIV/AIDS education fundraiser and a night of glamour.

November 2: 242 Colour Run Freeport - Back for a second great year! Visit run242.com for details and registration.

November 15: Mary Star of the Sea Annual Bazaar - 12:00 noon - midnight at the school on Sunrise Hwy.

December 5-6: Festival Noel - At the Rand Nature Center.

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

August 17: Pig Roast at Nippers - A GUANA CAY, Abaco tradition!

August 28: Treasure Cay Back-to-School Jam - ABACO. Free concert with Veronica Bishop, kids pool, games and giveaways. 2pm until.

October 10: Back to CAT ISLAND Festival - A weekend of activities, including a church service, gospel concerts, live performances, food and drinks at New Bight.

October 10-14: Discovery Day Homecoming Festival & Regatta - SAN SALVADOR. The event features cultural performances, gospel concerts, live entertainment by local and visiting artists, and culminates in a regatta with Bahamian sailing sloops. Contact: Mr. Marlon Jones (242) 331-2150.

October 13: ANDROS Conch Festival - Mars Bay, South Andros. Contact: Mrs. Brown (242) 357-2150.

October 25: ABACO Kayak Challenge - More info coming.

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

November 13-15: Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina "Wahoo Smackdown V" - www.biggameclubbimini.com reservations@biggameclubbimini.com or 1-800-867-4764.

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

December 27: 242 Colour Run Abaco - Back for a second great year! Visit run242.com for details and registration.

February 17-21, 2015: 3rd Annual Patrick Davis Hope Town Songwriters Festival. ABACO. www.PDandFirefly.com

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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Monument to be erected in memory of Fox Hill shooting victims

The community of Fox Hill joined in a groundbreaking service last Wednesday at Freedom Park for the construction of a monument to remember the four victims of the December 27, 2013 shooting. Members of the Fox Hill Festival Committee and ministers of religion led the service which was marked with songs, reflections and prayers symbolizing peace and unity.

Emotions ran high as family and friends reflected on the lives of Claudezino Davis, Shenique Sands, Eric Morrison and Shaquille Demeritte, all residents of the Fox Hill community.

In his address, Philip Davis, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Works and Urban Development, called on the residents to pledge to work towards peace and building the common good in memory of the lives of the victims.

He urged the young people to further embrace their community: "It is only as good as you make it. Therefore, it is times like these that we need to continue work together and by doing this it gives the community hope and trust for the rebuilding of this great constituency of Fox Hill. Building a strong community benefits everyone, both the people of Fox Hill and The Bahamas," he said.

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