Bahama Islands Info Newsletter

News :: Events :: Opportunities

VOL IV. No. 19, September 25, 2014

This week in Bahama Islands Info

National News

Nassau News

Grand Bahama News

Family Island & Abaco News

Arts & Entertainment News

Column: At the Movies

Sports News

Column: Bahamas weekly fishing report

Feedback: Letter to the Editor

Prime Minister Christie addresses UN Climate Change Summit

"I wish to begin by congratulating the Secretary-General on his laudable initiative, and I welcome the opportunity to address World Leaders at this Climate Summit on matters of crucial importance to my country. I want my presence here today to signal that for The Bahamas, Climate Change is serious business. This threatens our very existence. Here is what the scientists say:

Eighty (80) percent of my nation's land mass will be lost if the sea level rises 1.5 meters. They also say that with a warming of 3.7-4.8°C by 2100, as currently predicted, The Bahamas we know would be no more. It is with this sense of urgency that I address you today. The Bahamas accepts the science on this issue. We have signed on to all the agreements, yet emissions into the atmosphere continue to grow.

Click here to read more

U.S. Embassy hosts consular appreciation reception

On Wednesday, September 17, the U.S. Embassy's Consular Section held a reception at Liberty Overlook in appreciation of its key partners who support safe travel and provide services to assist American citizens in The Bahamas. The event served as an opportunity to recognize some of the Embassy's most critical and helpful contacts.

U.S Chargé d'Affaires a.i. Lisa Johnson and Consular Chief Nathan Hara were on hand for the event joined by Brazilian Ambassador His Excellency Carlos Costa, Ministry of Tourism Permanent Secretary Harrison Thompson, Ministry of National Security Permanent Secretary Carl Smith, members of the diplomatic and honorary consular corps, other senior U.S. and Bahamian officials and private sector representatives. Chargé Johnson gave remarks expressing gratitude for the hard work and collaboration between the U.S. Embassy and its key partners in assisting American citizens and facilitating visa services.

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Bahamas High Commissioner participates in 'Embassy Connections Canada Business Tour' in Alberta and British Colombia

H.E. Dr. Calsey Johnson, High Commissioner for the Commonwealth of The Bahamas participated in a business trip to Grande Prairie, Alberta and Dawson Creek, British Colombia from 7-10 September 2014. The business tour was organized by Embassy Connections Canada in collaboration with the First Nations Committee of the Canadian Parliament and the British Colombia Caucus of the Governing Conservative Party.

The tour provided High Commissioner the opportunity to expand his business contacts in Alberta and British Colombia and to promote investment and economic opportunities in The Bahamas. He also toured businesses in the agriculture, energy, forestry and mining sectors.

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Bahamian Dr. Donald Glass II named Dedman Scholar at Texas Southwestern Medical Center

Dr. Donald Glass II, MD / PhD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, was recently named a Dedman Scholar in Clinical Care at the Medical Center. A release appearing in the CENTERTIMES, a publication of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, as well as in the Dallas Morning News (a major daily newspaper serving the Dallas, Texas area, reads "The Dedman Family Scholars in Clinical Care (is) an endowed program focused on recruiting talented clinician-scientists early in their careers.

The Dedman Foundation made a landmark $12 million gift in 2009 to establish the Dedman Family endowed Program for Scholars in Clinical Care at UT Southwestern. The gift made to Southwestern Medical Foundation, was matched to create a $24 million endowment, which aids in recruiting the more promising early-career physicians to the medical center and launching their careers under the mentorship of senior clinicians and clinical scientists."

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Bahamas' VAT system - Triumphs and Pitfall (Part 1)

By John S. Bain Managing Partner at UHY, Bain & Associates in The Bahamas and member of UHY International

PART 1

Introduction of the tax

In a previous paper, we posit that VAT was probably 20 years too late. The July 1, 2014 was the original date of the proposed system of Value Added Tax (VAT). Some persons thought it was too soon, and the government listened. The announcement date did, as was expected, generate much debate from the intellectual community, the business community and the general population. Now the debate is over and The House of Assembly passed the modified Bill. The original guidance was limited in its detail and an earlier exposure may have invited earlier comments. Today, however, after the delay and further studies by interested parties, the government of The Bahamas has announced a new date of implementation as January 1, 2015. It has also published the updated bill and a set of regulations, as well as embarked on a public relations system using social media, public broadcast, town meetings, and partnership with non-governmental organizations, including The Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants. Additionally, a more comprehensive guidance has been published and, presumably in a move to 'soften the blow' of a new tax in a jurisdiction where there were few such fiscal obligations previously, the starting rate has been halved to 7.5%.

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BNT Navigators complete PADI scuba diving course

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) not only teaches students about the environment, but also provides them with opportunities to develop skills that will assist them with future career choices as well as amazing views of our environment, including under water ones. Recently fifteen students from the BNT's Navigators programme from St. John's High School, Nassau Christian Academy and Central Andros High successfully completed their PADI SCUBA Open Water Diver course earlier this month.

The Navigators programme is the third level of Discovery Club. This level is partially sponsored by The Atlantis Blue Project Foundation and is more research based, targeting young people in high school and college. Activities at this level are designed to equip the participants with knowledge and skills that will prepare them for college level studies in environmental science or eco- tourism based activities.

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More than 300 coral antlers installed as part of eco-reef experience at Baha Mar

The marine environment at Baha Mar continues to flourish, with the introduction of more than 300 coral antlers to the $3.5 billion resort's eco-reef experience. The eco-friendly coral antlers were installed in July, adding to the artificial eco-reef experience at Baha Mar. Before the antlers were installed, volunteers from Baha Mar assembled each 55lb antler by hand. The installation of 48 reef balls and 320 coral antlers began in April 2014 by Baha Mar's environmental team.

The reef balls and coral antlers were designed to complement each other by creating optimal conditions for coral and marine life just feet away from the shoreline. Fish are immediately attracted to the eco-reef layout, which closely resembles a naturally occurring coral reef. Over time, the reef balls and coral antlers will be filled in and covered by a living reef.

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Bahamian intimate apparel boutique featured in international magazine, The best of Intima

For the first time, a Bahamian boutique store, Cheek.y Intimate Apparel, has been featured in a popular, international, designer intimates magazine, The best of Intima. Published in France and available throughout North America, South America, and Europe, The best of Intima showcases the best in ladies' intimate apparel throughout the industry.

Public Relations Consultant for Cheek.y, Nikki Burrows, says "We are so proud of what we have been able to accomplish in less than two years of operation. Cheek.y is truly a unique shopping experience in Nassau, and being featured in an international publication like The best of Intima reaffirms what we've sought to create; a boutique, upmarket experience for our patrons, offering intimates from an array of their favorite international designers, hand-selecting our garments for both quality and style, and presenting them with superior customer service, in a comfortable environment and at prices quite comparable to those of US retailers."

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Ports International team receives fire safety training

Do you have the correct fire extinguishers in your business? Are they properly maintained? Do your employees know what to do in case of a fire? How do you make sure your facilities are safe for your employees and customers? Having well trained staff who are equipped with an appropriate level of knowledge and understanding of fire and its consequences is an asset to any business, and a demonstration by the employer, of their commitment toward the education and protection of their workforce and those who may visit their premises.

In an effort to reinforce their Quality Management System, manage their fire risks, and reinforce Health and Safety in the workplace, Ports International's employees received a Fire Safety Training and Demonstration from local company Bahamas Fire & Safety.

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Carnival Corp president to headline Chamber's annual meet 'n greet for CEOs at Palm Cay

Arnold W. Donald, who heads the $3.6 billion Carnival Corporation, will headline the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers' Confederation annual mix and mingle for business leaders, movers and shakers at an event being called The Wind Down: Where Business + Leisure Meet October 2 at the Billfish Grill at Palm Cay. The networking reception focusing on what creates sustainable success is expected to draw a waiting list of attendees.

"Bringing together a man who is larger than life in the diverse operation that is Carnival Corporation with its 10 cruise ships brands and 91,000 employees with local leaders in the business community in a venue at a beachside setting that shows the best of The Bahamas is one that we hope will once again reinforce how important the business sector is to the well-being of the nation," said Edison Sumner, Chamber CEO.

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Prime Minister visits Grand Bahama Shipyard

Grand Bahama Shipyard welcomed Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Perry Christie, September 19, on his official visit to the shipyard along with cabinet ministers, the Hon. Obie Wilchcombe Minister of Tourism; the Hon. Glenys Hanna-Martin, Minister of Transport & Aviation; the Hon. Shane Gibson, Minister of Labour & National Insurance; and the Hon. Khaalis Rolle, Minister of State for Investments. The Prime Minister and his ministers were given a bus tour with senior executives of Grand Bahama Ship Yard, and later met with employees in Grand Bahama Shipyard Cafeteria.

On the tour: the Rt. Hon Perry Christie Prime Minister, centre; Reuben Byrd, GB Shipyard Chief Operations Officer, left; the Hon. Michael Darville, Minister for Grand Bahama, centre background; the Hon. Shane Gibson, Minister of Labour & National Insurance, right background; and Carl-Gustaf Rotkirch, GB Shipyard Chairman & Chief Executive Officer.

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Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce (GBCC) Business Excellence Awards return after one year hiatus

After a one year hiatus, the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce (GBCC) recently announced the Business Excellence Recognition Awards is back.These prestigious awards are designed to honour outstanding Grand Bahamian businesses and executives.

While times are still tough in Grand Bahama, many businesses are still providing excellent service to their customers. This is the time when many businesses shine, in the face of budgetary constraints, tough competition and decreasing sales. So, these businesses should be commended for their great work.

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GB's industrial sector contribute to technology upgrades at the Sir Charles Hayward Children's Library

Reading is fundamental for children to achieve their goals, and thanks to BORCO, PharmaChem, Polymers, City Services, The Lyford Cay Foundation, The U.S. Embassy, FOCOL, Royal Bank, Statoil, and the Grand Bahama Shipyard, the Sir Charles Hayward Children's Library is becoming the best reading nook for local children.

The goal for this year is to increase library membership and improve reading skills in youngsters throughout Grand Bahama. Thanks to the donations from the industrial sector of Grand Bahama and others, the library was able to complete various technological and facility upgrades to help achieve their goals to increase reading and membership.

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GBPA announces VAT readiness training for Freeport licencees

Executives at the Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) announced today, plans for Value Added Tax (VAT) readiness training for businesses to commence on Grand Bahama in the coming weeks. President, Ian Rolle advises that Freeport businesses will require help to ready their businesses for VAT, with education and planning being essential for a 'smooth as possible' implementation process come January 1, 2015.

"While there are still some concerns looming as to how VAT will be implemented in the city of Freeport; it does not change the fact that businesses need to be prepared," Rolle stated. "We have met with the Ministry for Grand Bahama, and Minister Darville has assured us that the Government is carefully reviewing all concerns regarding VAT on services put forward by GBPA and its Licencees. More importantly, this initiative is to assist Licencees in planning, organizing and educating themselves and customers regarding VAT; getting started with training is the best course of action," Rolle added. "Time is of the essence as we have less than fifteen weeks before the start of the New Year."

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Albury's Ferry Service donates $10,400 to Abaco Pathfinders

Abaco Pathfinders was formed in 2001 and has generously awarded many Bahamian youths with a college education. Abaco Pathfinders' goal is to provide funds to enable deserving students from the Abaco islands to continue their education after high school.

Albury's Ferry Service is donating $10,400 to Abaco Pathfinders. Ferries go where people go ... "The young adults represent the future of our island; they are our most valuable asset," states Denis Knowles, manager of Albury's Ferry Service." we are proud to be part of a community which recognises the heartbeat of our talented young people."

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Cat Island delegation headed to Richton Park, Illinois, for Sister Cities negotiations

A delegation from Cat Island and The Bahamas is headed to Richton Park, Illinois, for Sister Cities negotiations. The group will be in Richton Park from September 22nd - 25th, 2014 to further explore the reciprocal benefits to be achieved as a result of the sister cities relationship. Immerse Bahamas, a destination and project management company that aims to promote culturally-immersive programs, has partnered with Sister Cities International to develop sister city relationships intended to enhance cultural, educational, tourism and business exchanges for the islands of The Bahamas.

Cat Island is one of the first islands under this initiative to cultivate a sister city relationship with the Village of Richton Park, IL. The Village of Richton Park is a small community located 30 miles from the City of Chicago in northeast Illinois and is home to about 13,500 residents who are looking to engage in cultural, tourism, business, educational and youth exchanges, as well as humanitarian projects.

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More jobs and investments heralded for Bimini

Resorts World Bimini Resort has seen a 30 percent increase in occupancy since its opening and is currently constructing a new 300-room hotel. Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Perry G. Christie made the statement during the official opening of the Port at Resorts World Bimini on September 18. The majority of his cabinet ministers accompanied him.

Mr. Christie said that this signals more opportunities for Bahamians. "I would like for you to listen very carefully to the jobs and economic impact of the Resorts World development," said Mr. Christie. "Some 480 persons have been involved in construction and to date 488 persons are employed at the resort. When the new hotel opens some 800 persons will be employed permanently at the resort."

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Mangrove Bush Primary School celebrates 50th anniversary

The staff and students of the Mangrove Bush Primary School on Long Island joined proud members of the community to celebrate the school's 50th Anniversary. The celebrations included reflections by former Principals, Mr. Norris Carroll and Mr. Deral Wells, respectively.

The school opened its doors in 1964 and rests on a parcel of land that was donated by Mr. George Knowles. Mr. Norris Rexford Carroll served as its first Principal. With the assistance of community partners such as Mr. Basil Neymour and the Parent Teachers Association, the school was expanded and is now recognized as one of the quality institutions of learning in The Bahamas.

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Save The Bays urges government to announce Bimini Reserve to protect the island's unique marine ecosystem

Environmental advocate Lindsey McCoy has called on government to immediately announce the establishment of the North Bimini Marine Reserve (NMBR) to protect that island's unique ecological heritage. Noting that more than two months have passed since Bimini's local council sent a letter asking the Christie administration to honor this longstanding promise, McCoy said there has been no response amid growing fears that the island's sensitive mangrove forests may be under threat from development.

"A recently released image showing a golf course located within the NBMR boundaries has caused serious concern among Biminites," McCoy said. "This is an area of unparalleled ecological importance, the mangroves providing a nursery for the marine life throughout the northern Bahamas.

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Food Network considers Bahamas event

Following a successful weekend at the Food Network's Concert at the Ravina in Chicago, Illinois, executives of the television network say they are "strongly" considering bringing an event to The Bahamas. The Ministry of Tourism was a major sponsor at the event as The Islands of The Bahamas hosted the Hot, Hot, Hot Luncheon and also participated in the JcPenny Greatest Hits show.

The Hot, Hot, Hot luncheon was sold out as just over 300 hundred people got a taste of Bahamian delights. At the luncheon, World-renowned Bahamian chef Simeon Hall Jr. prepared a spicy Bimini conch cake with aged goat pepper hot sauce, pickled tomatoes, curry yogurt sauce, micro celery and cilantro salad.

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Creative Nassau readies for first Creative Market in Pompey Square

Creative Nassau, in conjunction with the Downtown Nassau Partnership, is actively preparing for its first monthly Creative Market in Pompey Square, Downtown Nassau which will take place on Friday, September 26 from 9am - 6pm.

Enthusiastic vendors ranging from authentically native straw designers, photographers, artists, crafters, writers, local produce farmers, food vendors of native jams, jellies and drinks, junkanoo artists and artisans, storytellers, entertainers, straw plaiters and so much more will transform the Square into a all day Market with Bahamian-made products for sale as well as entertainment, educational information and 'true true' Bahamian hospitality for visitors and local Bahamians alike.

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Brutha Music Festival's inaugural kick-off in Nassau September 27th

On Saturday September 27th, Brutha Music Festival (also known as Brutha Fest) will be introduced to The Bahamas - an annual musical festival showcasing celebrated and emerging Bahamian artists. Set to take place at the Dundas Centre from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m., Brutha Fest re-establishes the concept of an adult and family oriented festival where all are welcomed into a safe environment to enjoy the diverse sounds of local performers.

In a rare showcase of talented artists - acts include Julien Believe, Wendi, QPid, Bodine, Leah Eneas and a Junkanoo Rush Out - Brutha Fest will set a precedent in merging talent, music and community. Moreover, Jungle Jym will be present with lots of games, activities and bouncing castles, etc. for the kids.

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Women artists recognised at opening of 'INSTINCT'

Celebrating the accomplishments of women artists, Her Excellency Dame Marguerite Pindling, Governor General, opened the Central Bank of The Bahamas art exhibition, "INSTINCT" - the new artwork of nine dynamic painters and sculptors on September 18. Dame Marguerite said the display showed a labour of love and in some cases a glimpse of their innermost thoughts, fears, joys, and perhaps a piece of their soul, all for our enjoyment and edification.

"These women have taken on art as a life-long passionate cause and pursued its development and evolution with dogged tenacity alongside the pursuit of more traditional careers, as they loved and nurtured their families," she noted.

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Bahamas High Commissioner to Canada patron of a Toronto International Film Festival event

H.E. Dr. Calsey Johnson was Patron of a Private Reception honouring a young Bahamian filmmaker, Mr. Kareem Mortimer and Bahamian Films during the Toronto International Film Festival. This event, held on Thursday, 11 September 2014, not only celebrated the work of Kareem Mortimer but also those of emerging Bahamian artists and strengthened the ties between the filmmaking community in The Bahamas and Canada.

In attendance were a number of producers and filmmakers as well as Bahamians living in Canada and provided a great opportunity for Canadians and Bahamians to learn more about investment potentials in the filmmaking industry in The Bahamas.

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At the Movies: The November Man

The tagline for this movie: A Spy Is Never Out Of The Game. When a lethal and highly trained ex-government operative is lured out of retirement for one last mission, he soon learns that the assignment marks him as a target for this former friend and protégé. With growing suspicions of a mole in the agency he soon finds that there is no one he can trust as he must play the spy game by his own rules with no holds barred.

Well, this movie confirms that the Russians have returned to their position as the main foreign villains in American spy films. I like that fact that this is a no frills spy thriller with realistic action and a down to earth take on this genre with a nod to political suspense movies of the past. It is fun to see Pierce Brosnan of the last generation of James Bond movies and Olga Kurylenko of the present generation of James Bond movies sharing the screen.

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Bahamas positioning itself for home run deal with New York Yankees

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism is looking to 'get on base' with the New York Yankees, seeking a partnership with the popular Major League Baseball team. The two sides recently began exploratory discussions on cobranding efforts that would expose millions of baseball fans to The Islands of The Bahamas brand. Director of Sports Tourism Greg Rolle led a team of sports representatives to New York to meet with New York Yankee executives Tuesday evening.

"New York is one of our major target markets and if we can establish a relationship with the Yankees that will help us penetrate the market, it could result in a boost in our visitor numbers," Rolle said.

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'Walk for the Cure' - CIBC FirstCaribbean steps it up for cancer fundraiser

Sister-to-Sister Breast Cancer Support Group, The Bahamas Breast Cancer Initiative Foundation, and the Cancer Societies in Abaco, Eleuthera, Grand Bahama and New Providence will all benefit from the funds raised at the CIBC First Caribbean's 5th Annual "Walk for the Cure" on Sunday October 5th from Goodman's Bay at 7 a.m.

In the lead up to the event CIBC management and staff have scheduled a multitude of team building and fund-raising events to benefit local Cancer research and care organisations. Since August, bank employees have been engaged in on and off-site fund raising activities nation-wide to add to the donations that will be raised from the "Walk for the Cure" event on October 5th.

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MCR proudly sponsors Potcakeman Triathlon 2014

The second annual Potcakeman Triathlon took place on Saturday, September 20th at Jaws Beach. Athletes of all levels come out and competed to support Baark's mission to "... carry out spay/neuter and education projects to reduce the homeless animal population and end the suffering of dogs and cats in The Bahamas." Adult Individual and Adult Relay Teams competed followed by the 'Puppy Tri' Kids Race. The day was filled with exciting events for all the family! Athletes completed a course that included a 750m swim, 21km bike and 5km run. All proceeds were donated towards Baark's spay/neuter and education programs.

Mario Carey Realty (MCR) was a proud sponsor of this great event for the second year in a row. This year the firm sponsored all of the volunteer shirts. President and CEO of MCR, Mario Carey also competed in the triathlon and finished second in his category and 31st overall. Congratulations to all of the participants, volunteers and Baark especially on a successful event!

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Marine artist and angler Carey Chen onboard for upcoming Wahoo Smackdown

Popular marine artist Carey Chen, whose colorful works are inspired from a lifetime of fishing and observing the ocean and its creatures, has been commissioned to "paint a trophy" to be awarded to the top team for heaviest wahoo at the Bimini Wahoo Smackdown V tournament scheduled for November 13-15.

Chen's paintings, which have fetched as much as $15,000, continue to grow in popularity with fishermen and collectors around the world. The historic Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina, which is hosting Wahoo Smackdown V, is working with Chen to create a unique first place trophy depicting wahoos, the greyhounds of the oceans and the fish de jour for the upcoming tournament.

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Bahamas weekly fishing report from Harbourside Marine

Fishing report as of September 18, 2014

Nassau: The local charter captains report that it has been a bit slow this week. There have been a few blackfin tuna caught offshore.

North Eleuthera: There have been some yellowfin and a few small wahoo caught off of the north Eleuthera points.

Abaco: The fishing has been reported to be slow with a few tuna and wahoo being caught.

Grand Bahama, Freeport: There has been some yellowfin tuna caught in the canyon.

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LETTER: Rollins: Ignorance or Arrogance?!

On Tuesday of this week Dr. Rollins got his wish for a headline grabbing story complete with a colored head shot when he threatened to name names if Wells is fired. "Some other people need to be fired too," smarted Rollins, and "in time, if that happens, I am prepared to say who also should be fired, because there is more than meets the eye when it comes to this whole, as you all call it, 'LOI affair'."

With that pronouncement, many believe he had publicly attempted to blackmail the government and party of which he is a member by suggesting malfeasance in claiming to have damning information about "others" in connection with a Letter of Intent, but its release was contingent on the employment future of a colleague. Is that the behavior of a new generation leader or an unethical and scheming charlatan?

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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 25: AMMC Lecture Series: Patricia Glinton-Meicholas - 7:00pm at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas. Topic will be: "Tongue of the Ocean: What Bahamian Language Reveals About Us as a People."

September 26: Creative Nassau Market - in Pompey Square 9am - 6pm. See story this newsletter A&E section.

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. Click HERE for info.

September 30: VAT Training Workshop - British Colonial Hilton ▪ 9-5PM. Register now, deadline September 25. Call Chamber Institute 322-2145.

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 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 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 7: Rhythm and Youth - Sir Gerald Cash Primary School perform in New York. Watch on Dem Bahamianstv beryl Youtube channel.

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.

January 24: 16th Cacique Awards - at Melia Nassau Beach Resort, Cable Beach.

February 5-8: 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: 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 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: DATE CHANGE! 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.

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 7-8: Auditions - For 'Dear Santa' (A Christmas Family Comedy by Norm Foster). Male and female, singing and non-singing. Anyone can come any night to the Dack residence at 7pm. Call 374-2879 for directions and information.

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

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

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 12-13: Dear Santa (A Christmas Family Comedy by Norm Foster) - Save the dates, more information coming soon.

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

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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Celebrated Bahamian folk opera 'The Legend of Sammie Swain' on TV Sunday night

Cable Bahamas has a long-standing history of supporting Bahamian culture and that tradition will continue when the telecommunications company broadcasts the Bahamian folk opera 'The Legend of Sammie Swain' on Cable 12 this Sunday, September 28 at 7:30 p.m.

'Sammie Swain,' as performed by the 70-member revival cast at Shakespeare in Paradise 2013, will premiere exclusively on Cable 12 and will be featured on the channel throughout the month of October. The television special is sponsored by the Cable Bahamas Cares Foundation, Cable 12 and Shakespeare in Paradise.

The Bahamian stage production, written by E. Clement Bethel as a ballet in 1968, and later as a folk opera in 1983, tells the story of a disabled Cat Island man who falls in love with the village beauty and sells his soul to the devil to be with her. The folk opera gained popularity among local audiences in the 1980s and is deemed a significant component of Bahamian culture.

Cable 12 Station Manager Alexia Coakley said she considers the station a hub for Bahamian art and entertainment and the broadcast of the iconic folk opera helps to support that view.

"It is definitely a privilege to be able to premiere a work such as 'Sammie Swain' on Cable 12. Being able to feature this production is really an honour for us," Mrs Coakley said. "So much about our culture, our folkways and traditions are represented in that story and it's exciting for us to be the exclusive presenter of that work on Cable 12."

The 'Sammie Swain' revival - the first in 28 years - was wildly successful at the fifth anniversary of Shakespeare in Paradise, and with the televised premiere set to kick off the 2014 festival, coordinators and sponsors are hopeful that the production will get audiences excited for the upcoming festival, which will run from October 3rd through to October 11th.

Click here to read more