Bahama Islands Info Newsletter

News :: Events :: Opportunities

VOL IV. No. 18, September 18, 2014

This week in Bahama Islands Info

National News

Nassau News

Grand Bahama News

Column: Bille Talks Business

Column: Humane Society of GB update

Family Island & Abaco News

Arts & Entertainment News

Column: At the Movies

Sports News

Feedback: Letter to the Editor

RBC Royal Bank donates 30,000 books to Bahamian schools

Driven by a commitment to children's education, RBC Royal Bank, in partnership with Read Bahamas, has donated 30,000 books to The Bahamas Ministry of Education for Bahamian schools.

Fueled by the efforts of RBC's employees in Toronto, Canada, the books will be given to the District Superintendents of New Providence and the Family Islands to distribute to local schools. Read Bahamas, a nonprofit organization focused on donating high-quality books to Bahamian children, was a driving force behind the effort and is partnering with RBC and the Superintendents to coordinate delivery of the books.

Click here to read more

U.S. Embassy hosts three-day conference on women's leadership

On September 10-12, 2014, the Public Affairs Section of the United States Embassy Nassau hosted a three-day conference focused on "Achieving Social Equity: Empowering Women and Youth Politically, Socially, and Economically" in Nassau with Dr. Avis Jones-DeWeever as the invited speaker. Dr. Jones-DeWeever has held positions in a variety of highly esteemed organizations and governmental institutions throughout the United States. Most recently she served as the Executive Director of the National Council of Negro Women where she led a new organizational push towards policy action and impact.

Dr. Jones DeWeever's presentations included a roundtable discussion with partners of the Ministry of Social Services' Women's Bureau and senior level women in civil society that focused on overcoming obstacles to women's participation in political leadership. She also led discussions on advancing women in leadership with entrepreneurs, business leaders and activists.

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WSC and BTC teaming up to reward customers

Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) is joining the ranks of progressive companies that provide billing by e-Notifications. E-notifications allows customers to get account notifications on their smart phones, tablets or computers. The e-Notification system was recently rolled out by WSC in July and gives customers updates about service and payments via their smart phones. Customers can also manage their accounts, file complaints and see frequently asked questions through e-Notifications, which is a free service available when you sign up via WSC's website.

Since the launch of the e-Notification campaign over ten thousand customers have signed up for the service and, with another month to go to win a new phone, they are hoping to double this number. "While we recognise that not every customer has an email address," said Visna Armbrister, WSC Public Affairs Manager, "we are hopeful that we can get more customers, particularly Family Island customers, to sign up between now and the end of September for the final drawing."

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New scholarship fund to help develop engineering sector

A corporate entity is collaborating with The Bahamas Society of Engineers (BSE) to help stimulate the participation of more Bahamians in a critical sector in the Bahamian economy. BHM Co. Ltd., formerly Bahamas Hot Mix Co. Ltd., and the BSE have established a scholarship fund at The College of The Bahamas for civil engineering technology students.

The College recently received a donation that will fund a scholarship of $3,000 every two years for a full-time, undergraduate majors pursuing the Associate of Science in Civil Engineering Technology programme. There will also be an opportunity for these scholarship recipients to intern with BHM Co. Ltd. Ebbe Saidi, Managing Director of BHM Co. Ltd., is convinced that initiating this scholarship fund was necessary in order to encourage more Bahamians to pursue a civil engineering profession.

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McDonald's team from New Providence receives team building training from Grand Bahama firm on Harbour Island

Under the theme, Team Building to Lead, President and CEO of Benchmark Consulting Services, Billie Bowe, accompanied the senior leadership team of DanBrad Ltd., the McDonald's franchise owners, to their First Annual management retreat in Harbour Island, Eleuthera on Saturday, September 5 to conduct a power packed team building session. The company's president, Mrs. Earla J. Bethel, felt it was a great opportunity for her hardworking management team to travel to Harbour Island to refresh and rejuvenate. Equally, it was an ideal place to host a fun filled yet impactful team building session.

The training covered a variety of topics including, but not limited to, identifying various team types and team member personalities, the team building trust/relationship model, effective communication amongst team members, problem solving, understanding roles and responsibilities and most importantly, establishing a clear purpose and a shared vision.

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Save The Bays attorney Fred Smith: Country being run 'like a dictatorship'

Leading attorney Fred Smith urged the government to stop running the country "like a dictatorship" and live up to its legal obligation to introduce a land use plan (LUP) for New Providence. Smith, legal director of fast-growing social and environmental advocacy movement Save The Bays (STB), pointed out that the creation of an LUP was mandated in the 2011 Planning and Subdivision Act, yet the government has sat through more than half its current term with producing one - or informing the public of when it plans to.

"The failure to fulfill a legal duty to introduce an LUP for New Providence is yet another example of the executive acting as if it can just ignore the legislature with impunity. We have three branches of government, all of equal consequence. The prime minister is not the king of The Bahamas," he said. "Yet through successive governments, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) has run this country as if it were a dictatorship, or some feudal aristocracy where those at the top can do as they please and answer to no one."

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reEarth reports Adelaide oil spill concerns in letter to Minister of the Environment

By Sam Duncombe / Director reEarth

On Thursday Sept 11 2014 at approximately 12.30 -1.00 pm Susie Glucksmann, one of my neighbours was walking her dogs when she came upon an oil slick on Adelaide Beach. She emailed me photos at 2.06 on the same day (attached), but unfortunately I was out and did not return until after dark. According to Ms. Glucksmann the slick stretched from the Maillis property which abuts the "public" eastern side of the Albany groin to Mr. Bernard Hanna's property called "The Farm" (approximately � a mile).

I had been out in my yard at approximately 10 am on Thursday and there was a strong wind coming from the WSW at this time there was no oil visible on Adelaide beach. Susie Glucksmann spoke to Merceline Regis, who used to work for Ministry Health, who called the Director of Environmental Health Melanie Mc Kenzie requesting that Ms. Mc Kenzie send someone to Adelaide to assess the situation and take samples.

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Lyford Cay International School earns Green Flag Award

The Green Eco Schools flag flies now proudly outside the Lyford Cay International School (LCIS), a result of two years of planning, changing mindsets at the school and implementation of new environmental policies at LCIS. The LCIS Eco Club has been working towards achieving the Green Flag Award since it's inception in 2012. The Eco Club, has spearheaded several campus wide initiatives to help spread the "green" message as they moved towards Green Flag status.

"It's a real process," said Denise Mizell one of the LCIS teacher stakeholders, "We followed a series of steps and we proved that we are committed to the environment. We have committed to continue to improve our carbon footprint and to help share the message of environmentalism," she added.

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Baha Mar dazzles meeting planners

Baha Mar recently hosted 130 meeting planners for a networking reception, giving them the opportunity to learn about some of the exciting amenities being offered by the $3.5 billion luxury resort. Amenities include a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course and a selection of professional and amateur tennis courts for players of all skill levels.

Buyers and sellers attending the Caribbean Meeting and Incentive Travel Exchange event sipped and shared information about plans for 2015 and beyond as they enjoyed the views from the lush lawn of the Royal Blue Golf Clubhouse at Baha Mar. These meeting planners represent potential buyers that can generate millions of dollars in business for the country, through group sales and incentive travel.

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Sandyport Beaches Resort gives rooms a Bahamas-chic upgrade

Sandyport Beaches Resort and Hotel in the Sandyport Marina has given a chic Bahamian-style upgrade to their 72 rooms and suites. Following a year of record-breaking high occupancy, the RCI Gold Crown-winning resort has incorporated Bahama Hand Print linens and increased local artwork to highlight the Island feel and ambiance of the resort. The project incorporates redecoration of the serene island rooms in fresh, beachy colours complete with new duvets and linens and topped off with an array of vibrant Bahama Hand Print pillows and cushions with seahorse, pineapple, and other tropical patterns. General Manager Vernon Moss says the acclaimed print manufacturer was the perfect choice for their remodelling needs.

"We couldn't go wrong with Bahama Hand Prints," said Mr. Moss. "The quality of the products is excellent, they are locally made and they highlight Bahamas' beautiful local flora and fauna. We try to create a luxury island ambiance in our rooms and the whimsical pillows add panache."

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REACH stretched to last dollar, Sure Win steps in

With $1 in the bank, REACH -- the organization that is the lifeline for children with autism, their parents, teachers and caregivers - was on the brink of falling off a financial cliff when benefactors "Sure Win" stepped in.

"We are so grateful to Sure Win," said Mario Carey, REACH president. "This has been the most challenging year in our history. We temporary lost the donated office space where parents gathered for meetings and support when part of the roof and overhang collapsed. Then there was our 14th annual summer camp where we expecting 85-90 participants but 164 showed up and we couldn't turn anyone away."

The camp is so important as it allows for siblings to attend and act as role models for those children affected by autism.

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Billie Talks Business: Taking responsibility as a company, when things go horribly wrong

Companies make mistakes all the time, but how they accept responsibility for those mistakes is where the water gets a little murky. Case in point: the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, commonly known as the BP oil spill, which occurred in April 2010, resulted in over 200 million gallons of crude oil gushing into the Gulf of Mexico after an explosion onboard their oil drilling rig which killed eleven people. The BP oil spill is the biggest oil spill in U.S. history.

We can all probably recall the images of birds, turtles, fish and mammals covered in heavy crude oil, either dead or gasping for breath. It was a costly mistake, one that left the states affected - Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida - at a loss as to how such a terrible thing could have happened. Four years later, the company is still battling court cases and a multitude of lawsuits and fines that potentially can cost them billions of dollars.

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Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce responds to local VAT concerns in the business community

After recent meetings in Freeport and after much local commentary about the upcoming implementation of VAT, the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce commented that while Government legislation to some extent recognizes Freeport's "tax free" status under the Hawksbill Creek Agreement (HCA), it does not go all the way in addressing its members' concerns.

While the GBCC appreciates the Government's VAT Team's meeting with its members, at a recent lunch and a following Town Meeting, the feedback to the Chamber from Freeport licensees and members is that the presentation raised more uncertainty than it clarified. As a result, the Chamber will seek to gain clarification from the Government on various points raised in the meetings and in subsequent discussions and calls from members.

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Freeport wows industry giants at major trade event in Las Vegas

While economists may debate the increasing/decreasing importance of supply chains, off-shore assembly and value addition services, the reality is that they exist in the present time, and continue to be the method of choice to meet the global demands of being 'first to market' for many corporations.

During the recent 21st SourceDirect, & ASD Trade Shows and Conferences held in Las Vegas, Nevada, Business Development Manager for The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA), Derek Newbold, was one of a few featured panelists in a forum on business development and sourcing in emerging markets. According to Newbold, the panel included a number of international business experts such as the Senior Director of Sandler Travis & Rosenberg, Founder & CEO of Stigmare and Managing Director at Source2B," explained Newbold.

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UNEXSO trains first Bahamian woman shark feeder

Not many people are brave enough to swim with the sharks, much less feed them, but Rachelle Lazarre is proving that she isn't like many people with each new dive! Underwater Explorers Society's (UNEXSO) youngest divemaster is just that brave, and after having recently completed her shark feeding training, she has now become the first Bahamian woman shark feeder.

""I am so grateful for this opportunity," said Rachelle. "I am very excited to carry on the twenty-five year tradition of UNEXSO's shark diving program and to belong to a company that will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year. Cristina has been an amazing role model and teacher and I am looking forward my next experiences."

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Bluegreen Outdoor Tours finds a nature niche on Grand Bahama

Answering a call for more diversified tours for our visitors on Grand Bahama, entrepreneur/birder H. Rudy Sawyer saw an opportunity for eastern Grand Bahama. Started more than a year ago, this beautiful tour begins at a location of your choosing. Bluegreen Outdoor Tours has a van that picks up tourists or interested persons from their hotel or the boat and takes them on a lovely journey through the eastern side of Grand Bahama to an office in McLean's Town.

There are many birds on the way and host/tour guide Mr. Sawyer points them out all the way as he also gives a brief history of the country and the island. Once prepared for the beautiful walk, the tour guide takes you through a walking path along the shoreline of East Grand Bahama pointing out the various birds that are indigenous or visiting as he gives more information on this very old settlement in Grand Bahama.

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Beautiful birding at Grand Bahama's 'delightful dump'

One of Grand Bahama's productive birding sites is the local landfill, operated by Sanitation Services. Lou Carroll, the General Manager who loves birds, and Jason Albury, the Landfill Manager, make sure that their heavy collection trucks and other machinery avoid the wetland patches created by rain, that provide food and habitat for the resident and migratory bird species! As a matter of fact, when you look at the photos of the birds and their environment you may think that you are in a national park rather than at the dump!

Of course one of the most abundant species that you can find at most landfills is the Laughing Gull, a resident of the Bahamas. These birds surround the tractors which distribute delectable edibles for them. When you look up along the high elevation created by years of garbage and now covered by grasses, you feel that you might be somewhere in the South American foothills.

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It takes a village to rescue - whether one dog or nineteen

Despite many recent challenges, this week we at the Humane Society of Grand Bahama were grateful to Pilots n Paws, and specifically pilots Donna Shannon, Pat Picornell, and Allan Weltman. They flew over here to rescue 19 shelter dogs whose chances of local adoption are slim to none, given that our local adoption rate hovers around 7% of our 1500+ annual intake.

Two pups went to a West End GB second home owner in Washington DC who helped rescue them a few months ago and waited for them to be old enough and healthy enough for us to send to her. The rest went to our most favorite rescue friends in Colorado. Most of the pups were treated to an overnight stay in Ft Lauderdale with our amazing Florida volunteers rallying once again to care for them and get them on to their final destination. Puppylifts are going to become more challenging as of November 17th, when new USDA regulations come into effect.

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Treasure Cay plans still a mystery to local community

With no concrete plans announced but work continuing, the Abaco Defenders group remains concerned about the expansion of the Treasure Sands resort in Treasure Cay, Abaco. According to the newly formed NGO, after the initial unpermitted dredging was stopped with a cease and desist order from the BEST Commission, Treasure Sands received permission for three temporary structures on their property across the road from the resort. They believe none of these should be on the reclaimed property that resulted from the dredging, property whose ownership is still in question according to Abaco Defenders.

The NGO appealed this approval at local government level as they were concerned that the decisions were made without knowledge of what the larger plans for the development are. "There are also serious concerns about the fate of historical artifacts," said Fiona Bootle, President of Abaco Defenders. "These have been that were found on the property this summer."

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Grand event planned for opening of new port at Resorts World Bimini

The official opening of the first phase of the new Port at Resorts World Bimini will be celebrated on Thursday, September 18th under the auspices of Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Perry Christie and the Executive Chairman of Genting Group, Tan Sri KT Lim. The two esteemed leaders will participate in a ribbon cutting ceremony and welcome the inaugural guests from Fort Lauderdale disembarking from the Bimini SuperFast. In addition to cruises from Miami on Fridays to Sundays, Bimini SuperFast will be cruising from Fort Lauderdale on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays commencing on October 14, 2014.

Distinguished guests attending the event will include Government Ministers, Ministry of Tourism officials, members of the Bimini Local Government Town Council, invited Biminites and members of the news media. Bimini Superfast will be hosting more than 400 travel agents, tour operators and South Florida hotel concierges from Fort Lauderdale for the day cruise to Bimini featuring a full day of activities and time to relax on the island's pristine beaches.

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BIS interviews North Androsians in lead-up to BAMSI's opening

Bahamas Information Services (BIS) this week interviewed a number of community leaders and residents of North Andros to get their feedback on the development of the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) in their community, as the time approaches for the new institute to receive students and open for classes.

The BIS broad range of interviews, soon to be broadcast, included talks with the Administrator for North Andros and the Berry Islands, the Assistant Director of Labour, BAIC Project Manager, Urban Renewal representatives, North Andros High School teachers, high school students who are assisting on the project, construction contractors, and people who live in the area.

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International conservationists alarmed over Bimini development

A group of international conservation experts has expressed serious concern over the environmental impact of ongoing resort construction on and around the island of Bimini. The experts, hosted on a tour of Bimini by fast-growing social and environmental advocacy group Save The Bays (STB), said they fear the work may destroy some of the most significant coral reefs in the region and put the island's traditional industries at risk.

"The Bahamas are some of the most beautiful and wonderful places in the world," said Marydele O'Donnely, director of international policy for the Sea Turtle Conservancy (STC). "I've traveled extensively and I have been absolutely amazed by how the habitat looks here. But when I see developments like what is happening in North Bimini I am not only alarmed and concerned, but really saddened."

Click here to read more and view video

Music, Model & Talent Showcase (MMTS) to hold casting call in Abaco

After the success of the Nassau casting call for the Music, Model & Talent Showcase of the Islands, MMTS, organizers are heading to Abaco to glean from the talent pool in that northern island famous for shipbuilding. All roads lead to the Dundas Town Community Centre where residents will show their talents before MMTS Regional Scout, beginning at 11 am on Saturday, 20th September 2014.

CEO, Founder and Owner of MMTS Pia Glover-Rolle says she is extremely excited to see what talent - models, actors, singers, songwriters and music producers - Abaco will have to offer. Mrs. Rolle, who is also President and Founder at PTG Marketing & Modeling Agency, hopes that Abaco residents register early and reserve their space as competition is expected to be fierce.

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Popular Bahamian musical artist 'K.B.' releases new single Captain Kangaroo

Musician and recording artist, Kirkland 'K.B.' Bodie, this week released his latest musical single Captain Kangaroo. Another of his hard hitting songs, the artist sheds light on the leadership of the country as seen through his eyes.

"You can call my latest body of work #MessageMusic. It speaks to the state of our nation, socially and politically," said Bodie. "I have always included stories and messages in my songs, describing who and how we are as a people. Things are changing so fast, now, more so than ever and we are in a time where we have to address #SocialMatters plaguing our daily lives which are growing worse."

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Red Dress Soiree reveals silent auction packages valued at more than 18k

The Red Dress Soiree reveals more than 15 exclusive packages to be auctioned at the bi-annual charity runway show, cocktail reception and silent auction to be held Saturday September 20, 2014 at 6:30pm in the ballroom of the British Colonial Hilton. Corporate Bahamas has showed an overwhelming support of the charity event where all proceeds benefit the Bahamas AIDS Foundation's work with adolescents infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS.

More than 15 silent auction packages have been composed offering event patrons the opportunity to bid on luxury items and services, trips and excursions. The silent auction packages have been specially curated to offer bidders complete experiences and access to the best products and services in The Bahamas.

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Bahamian filmmaker makes splash in Canada

Bahamian film director and producer Kareem Mortimer recently held a reception in Toronto during the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and under the patronage of His Excellency the High Commissioner of The Bahamas to Canada, Dr. Calsey Johnson. The event was a celebration of Bahamian culture highlighting the many important contributions made by the Bahamas on the International Film Festival circuit.

The invitation-only private reception was held in swanky Yorkville, in mid-town Toronto, a networking and social hotspot during TIFF, when major motion film industry directors, producers and executives, as well as top-billing actors are in town to showcase the best in the industry. Produced by David Vallee, a reality television personality, attendees also included supporters of Bahamian film-making, executives from the Bahamas Tourist Office in Canada and a number of prominent resident Bahamians.

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Song competition for 19th Conference of Commonwealth Education Ministers officially begins

As The Bahamas prepares to host the 19th Conference of Commonwealth Education Ministers (19th CCEM) in June of 2015, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology began the search for a song that will herald the importance of education and promote unity between member states of the Commonwealth.

Education, Science and Technology Minister the Hon. Jerome Fitzgerald said the Song Competition is another project that will enable The Bahamas to 'brand' the 19th CCEM, and entries are expected to 'celebrate' the power of education to enhance the lives of individuals and nations. The triennial meeting is second in importance, only to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting and allows the 53 leaders of education systems within the Commonwealth to engage in meaningful dialogue on education.

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At the Movies: Review of 'Sin City: A Dame to Kill For'

The tagline for this movie: There Is No Justice Without Sin. Return to a town of hard boiled citizens as they cross paths with more notorious inhabitants that have kept to the shadows. We will witness events of the past which connect to those of the present and shows us that not everything is black and white in a noir world. Dwight McCarthy is a private detective with a violent past who is trying to put the darker times behind him when he runs into an ex lover who manages to get him tangled up in a sticky web of violence and debauchery which will alter his life in ways he never would have expected in his craziest nightmares.

Let the defenestrations begin as we are given another taste of this potent mixture filled with all the things this black and white comic universe has to offer with dabs of color. The problem with having to wait so long for a sequel to a groundbreaking cinematic event is that you forget what made the event so groundbreaking after seeing elements of it used in lesser works.

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Bahamas praised for HBCUX Classic

There were over 8,000 tickets sold at this past weekend's HBCUX Classic - the first-ever American college football game held in The Bahamas. The game, held at the Thomas A. Robinson stadium, saw Texas State University (TSU) and Central State University (CSU) square off. But in the end, TSU defeated CSU 30-16.

TSU player Daveonn Porter said he was pleased to be in The Bahamas playing the game he loves. "We dominated the game. I love being in The Bahamas and I'm so glad that so many of our fans came to show their support," he said. "I hope to come back here real soon."

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Pittsburgh asks Grand Bahamians: Are you ready for some football?

Tired of the sun, sand and surf? Ready for an urban vacation including some good old American football?

In cooperation with Grand Bahama's Tourism Board, VisitPITTSBURGH is sponsoring a "Picture Perfect Pittsburgh" contest to find the perfect social media travel host from Grand Bahama Island. The contest is being run in an effort to promote the one-month trial of a direct flight between Pittsburgh and Grand Bahama. VisitPITTSBURGH and the Grand Bahama Island Tourism Board, their members and partners, are collaborating to have residents from both places consider these destinations when selecting a vacation destination.

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CIBC FirstCaribbean sponsors sports for youth development

CIBC FirstCaribbean continues to demonstrate its commitment to youth and sports in the country through their most recent contributions to local sporting organizations. In a short presentation CIBC FirstCaribbean awarded the Kevin Johnson Basketball Camp, Peace on the Streets Basketball Tournament, Elite Soccer and the Junior Baseball League of Nassau with monetary gifts to aid their work with young athletes.

These organisations were selected for their dedication to the development of youth through sports. The Kevin Johnson Basketball Camp which has been in existence since 1999 not only works to enhance the athletic skill of our nation's youth, but also to provide them with the discipline, structure and guidance needed to help them become productive and focused citizens. The well-known Peace on the Streets annual basketball tournament has been advocating against violence for 19 years.

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Grand Bahama scores with the Atlanta Hawks Cheerleaders

On Friday, September 5th, the first half of the spirited ladies of the Atlanta Hawks Cheerleaders arrived on Grand Bahama for a week-long photo and video shoot in preparation for their upcoming calendar and television show.

According to team captain, Brooke Boxberger, the team is looking forward to "sunny weather, nice sandy beaches, great pictures and fun in the sun." Fortunately, for this excited bunch, they were welcomed to the island with just that.

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Sports community remembers Keith 'Seven-Footer' Mullings

The Grand Bahama Sports Council joins with the Grand Bahama Basketball community in offering condolences on the passing Keith R Mullings this past weekend. Grand Bahama has lost a sports legend and we will forever remember Keith "Seven Footer" Mullings and the game he loved. An avid athlete during his younger days, Keith contributed much to the game of basketball on Grand Bahama both at the local and national level.

He was one of the pioneer players who helped to develop the YMCA basketball league while playing for the Citi Bank Chargers. Coached by the legendary Coach Gladstone "Moon" McPhee, Keith won several national and local awards including the Commonwealth Basketball League Most Valuable Player and several rebounding titles which earned him the nickname "Seven Footer."

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Letter to the Editor: Kirkland Bodie - thanks

Thanks??? Firstly, I would like to thank the Prime Minister for hearing the cries of the few in the cultural community who spoke up, along with the Bahamian public. Thank you for adding a name that is synonymous with one of our major Bahamian cultural expressions.

Although I felt like you did not go far enough. In my opinion, the festival could have been named Rake-N-Scrape, Jumbey, or Goombay, but it doesn't matter. What matters is that there was a change and that you listened to us. It also shows that the 'voice of the people' is the voice that matters. I feel proud to have been in the dissent column.

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Muddasick!

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.

September 18: COB Career Fair - Independence Park at The College's Oakes Field Campus.

September 18: Doctors Hospital Lecture Series - Living with Lupus, Dr Omala Ablack explains. 6pm in the conference room, Dowdeswell St. Call 302-4600.

September 18: Robert Mondavi Private Selection Wine Lover's Tasting - At Butler and Sands Caves Village Liquor Store from 6:30pm to 9:00pm. Call 397- 1486 or 397-1475 for tickets and info.

September 18: Instinct Art Exhibition - Opening 6pm to 9pm in the Central Bank of The Bahamas Art Gallery. Featuring the artwork of nine dynamic artists: Sue Bennett-Williams, Chantal Bethel, Lisa Codella, Jessica Maycock-Colebrooke, Claudette Dean, Sue Katz, Holly Parotti , Nadine Seymour-Munroe and na-Lisa Wells.

September 19-20: Summer Madness 2014 - with James Catalyn and Friends at the Dundas Centre for the Performing Arts, Mackey Street. 8pm nightly. Box office 10-4pm daily, 393-3728 & 394-7179.

September 20: Potcakeman Triathlon at Jaws Beach. Fun event for all ages. Click HERE to learn more.

September 20: Halsbury Chambers 10th Annual Free Legal Clinic - under the theme "Information You Need for the Life You Want" at the office located on Village Road from 9am to 3pm. 393-4551 to make an appointment.

September 20-21: iCreate Music All Access Seminar - at Atlantis. Registration is $250. For more info call: (242) 422-2738.

September 27: Holy Cross Anglican Church Fair - Holy Cross Fair Grounds, Soldier Rd. 12 noon - 10pm. Click HERE to view the poster.

September 27: Bahamas Carnival Road Fever Costume Expo! - Melia Resort 12-6pm.

September 27: Paradise Plates - 30 top chefs and beverage purveyors come together to benefit Hands for Hunger. 7-11pm, Grand Ballroom Atlantis. $175 tickets - 327-1660.

September 27: Brutha Music Festival & Family Fun Day - at The Dundas Centre for the Performing Arts, Mackey Street. Live concert with Julien Believe, Qpid, Wendi, Bodine and more! Junkanoo Fete, Food & Drinks. Tickets and info email travis@bruthamagazine.com.

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 - Visit run242.com for details and registration or stop by The Sports Center in person.

October 3-13: Shakespeare in Paradise - Ramping up for a sixth season at the Dundas Centre for the Performing Arts.

October 4 & 11: Taste our Bahamas Festival - at Clifford Park. Click HERE to visit the Culinary Month website with all the events detailed.

October 5: CIBC Walk For the Cure - Short and long routes offered. 7am start from Goodman's Bay. Proceeds to cancer support organizations in The Bahamas. E-mail duquesa.dean@cibcfcib.com or stop in at any CIBC FirstCaribbean branch to register. $20. Great prizes too!

October 4: Ranfurly's Annual Grand Raffle - Drawing takes place at the Ranfurly Homes for Children on Mackey Street from noon - 6pm. Get your tickets early! Live Radio/Bake Sale/Great Prizes.

October 16: Doctors Hospital Lecture Series - Wellness following a cancer diagnosis. 6pm in the conference room, Dowdeswell St. Call 302-4600.

October 25: Sandals 'Vibes on the Island' - Private island concert with Tarrus Riley and Chronixx plus special guests. $195 inclusive of food and drinks. Click HERE to visit the website.

October 26: Real Love Tour - Life & Relationship Coach Tony A. Gaskins Jr. For further information call 352-6301 or email empower.renuyou@gmail.com. Click HERE to view the poster.

October 30: BIBA Banquet - Best business awards at Sandals Royal Bahamian. Contact the Chamber for details 322-2145.

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

November 20: Bill Cosby - Legendary comic performs at Atlantis. Call 363-6601 or visit the Coral Towers box office.

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 5-8, 2015: Ride For Hope #9 / Tour of the Bahamas - Combined bike riding events with a new date and place! RFH now in Nassau. Click HERE to visit the FB page. New website coming soon.

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

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

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

September 20: Freeport Players' Guild President's Cocktail Party - Celebrating 50 years of live theatre in Grand Bahama, 7pm at the Regency Theatre. Click HERE for more info.

September 20: International Coastal Clean-Up: 8-11am at High Rock Beach, Barbary Beach, Fortune Beach, Silver Point Beach (east of Williamstown), Xanadu Beach, Lewis Yard Coast, Lover's Beach/Hepburn Town Coast, Bootle Bay Beach or West End Coast. Pencils, data sheets, gloves, garbage bags, and water will be provided to volunteers. Register at MOT 350-8611.

September 20: Uppercut Band - Performs poolside at Unexso from 7:30pm. Reservations recommended call 373-1244. Food and drink specials.

September 27: GBCC Grand Bahama Time Trial Championships - Who will be the fastest cyclist through the 25 mile 'Big Loop' course? Why not try for yourself! Contact gb-cyclist@hotmail.com for details.

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

September 27: Pub Quiz - Popular Humane Society fundraiser at Red Beard's. Registration from 7pm, quiz at 8.

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: Rotary Club of Freeport Wine & Cheese - Second annual evening of fine wines and gourmet cheeses to raise funds for Rotary's many charitable projects. Follow the wine glass signs to the Sailing Club! Click HERE to view the poster.

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

October 11: Relay For Cancer - Third annual 4 x 1 mile road race. 6am warm-up at Pelican Bay. Click HERE to view the poster.

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: All in One Dog & Car Wash and No Fleas Flea Market - at the Humane Society Shelter on Coral Rd. If anyone has donations for the flea market please contact Caraline Holding at cholding@coralwave.com.

October 25: GBCC Annual Business Excellence Awards - Will be held at the Regency Theatre. Save the date and start thinking about a nominee ... See ad HERE.

October 25: Real Love Tour - Life & Relationship Coach Tony A. Gaskins Jr. For further information call 352-6301 or email empower.renuyou@gmail.com. Click HERE to view the poster.

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. A joint effort to benefit the HSGB and the GB Sailing Club, at the Sailing Club.

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. Sign up today.

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

November 2: 242 Colour Run Freeport - Non-competitive colourful fun start/finish at Garden of the Groves. Visit run242.com for details and registration.

November 8: Culinary Fusion Expo - Second year for this unique event. Click HERE to read more.

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

November 15: Posh Paws Fashion Show - NEW DATE! At the GB Sailing Club from 6:30 p.m. until...

December 5-6: Festival Noel - Grand Bahama's most popular Christmas season annual event - at the Rand Nature Centre.

December 13: Christmas Boat Parade - Part proceeds to benefit BASRA. Click HERE to view the poster, contact UNEXSO at 373-1244.

March 13-14, 2015: Fifth Annual Youth Benefit Fishing Tournament - Lots of time to mark your calendars and get your lines ready. Don't miss it!

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

September 20: Music, Model & Talent Showcase of the Islands - ABACO. Click HERE to read all about it!

September 24: ABACO Business Outlook - "Charting the course for growth in Abaco" at the Abaco Beach Resort. Click HERE to visit the website.

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 11: ABACO 5K swim - Professional and non-professional swimmers of all ages are invited to compete. Course in the waterway of Marsh Harbour near Albury's Ferry. Also paddle board and kayak challenges. Abaco Tourist Office (242) 367-3067. Click HERE to download an entry form.

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.

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

November 8: ABACO Kayak Challenge - Contact Friends of the Environment for details: kwilliams@friendsoftheenvironment.org.

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 7: Hope Town Reef Ball - ABACO. Contact Friends of the Environment fore more information: kwilliams@friendsoftheenvironment.org.

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

February 28: Marsh Harbour Reef Ball - ABACO. Contact Friends of the Environment fore more information: kwilliams@friendsoftheenvironment.org.

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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'Taste Our Bahamas' to provide economic opportunities

Ministry of Tourism officials have announced that next month's Culinary Month and Taste Our Bahamas Festival will bring several economic opportunities for Bahamians. Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism Harrison Thompson said the month-long activities would display The Bahamas' culinary treasures and culture.

"These activities are expected to provide an economic boost to Bahamian businesses and individuals as they attract people who want to take part in the activities planned around culinary tourism month," he said. "We expect that vendors would be able to make money as well allow people to sample their creative dishes. As we enhance our tourism product, we also want our vendors to be in a position to raise additional funds for businesses."

Culinary Month consists of five events. These events include Restaurant Month, where 50 restaurants will provide a prix fixe menu that will feature conch dishes. There will also be a food tour-featuring conch all month long though Tru Bahamian Food Tours.

Additionally, the International Cultural Festival will be held on October 18 & 19 at Botancial Gardnes and to round out the events the Bahamas National Trust will hold its annual Food and Wine Festival on October 25 at its grounds on Village Road.

But the cornerstone of Culinary Month is the Taste Our Bahamas Food Festival at Fort Charlotte, which will feature a fierce competition between 16 islands for bragging rights of the best food on October 4th and October 11th.

"The best cooked food vendor and best bartender will compete and with that we extend an invitation to all our Family Islands to start your process now to select your best cooked food and mixologist because you want to ensure you send the best of your islands," he said.

Click here to read more