Bahama Islands Info Newsletter

News :: Events :: Opportunities

VOL IV. No. 28, November 27, 2014

This week in Bahama Islands Info

National News

Nassau News

Grand Bahama News

Column: Humane Society of Grand Bahama update

Family Islands News

Arts & Entertainment News

Column: Weekly fishing report from Harbourside Marine

Preliminary report on crash of N17UF released

The public is advised that the Department of Civil Aviation is now in possession of a Preliminary Report on the Freeport, Grand Bahama aircraft crash which took the lives of nine persons, including Dr. Myles Munroe, at approximately 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 9th, 2014. The narrative of that report is now being released by that Department. The report was prepared by the Air Accident Investigation and Prevention Unit (AAIPU) of the Department on November 20th, 2014, and it contains specifics on the aircraft and crew, and on the weather conditions and flight details.

According to the AAIPU report, both pilots Captain Stanley Thurston, and First Officer Frahkan Cooper were licensed and certified by the Federal Aviation Administration, and were in possession of valid first class medical certificates, which were issued in November, 2014. Day instrument meteorological conditions prevailed upon the departure of the aircraft from Odyssey Aviation, and an instrument flight rules flight plan was filed for the 24 minute flight to Freeport.

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Minnis retains FNM leadership - grateful for vote of confidence

Remarks by The Hon. Dr. Hubert A. Minnis, MP,
During FNM Convention "New Vision"
Friday 21st November 2014

Tonight I am humbled by your support and grateful for your vote of confidence. We have come a long way these past 2 ½ years. You have never left my side! I have only succeeded because of your prayers, love and support; Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Your vote today is about the future!! A bright FNM future!! Your vote is a call to action; it is a call for a more energized, a more united, and a more focused leadership. I hear you! Our leadership team hears you! And I will make sure the entire Bahamas hears you!!

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AML Foods donates $10,000 to the Salvation Army Kettle Drive

Kicking off the 2014 Kettle Drive Corporate Sponsorship, AML Foods Limited donated $10,000 to the Salvation Army.

Renea Knowles, VP of Marketing and Communications, said "Every year through our "Gifts for Good" program we seek to do our part and come to the aid of persons in need in the communities that we operate in. Recognizing that every year the Kettle Drive helps countless individuals and families at Christmas, as well as throughout the year, we decided to launch this year's 'Gifts for Good Program' with a donation to the Salvation Army in Nassau and Freeport. The Kettle Drive has been giving hope to many in the Bahamas since 1931 and AML Foods through our brands Solomon's, Solomon's Fresh Market, Cost Right Wholesale Club, Domino's Pizza and Carl's Jr. feel it is important to support this worthy cause."

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BNT awarded second $50K grant from The Moore Bahamas Foundation for Conchservation

A little more than a year after it was launched, a Bahamas National Trust (BNT) program creating a strategy to ensure the long-time survival of the conch population got a major boost this week when The Moore Bahamas Foundation, an affiliate of Louis Bacon's Moore Charitable Foundation, donated $50,000 to its Conchservation efforts.

The donation was the second of a three-year commitment from The Moore Bahamas Foundation to BNT for the preservation of this mollusk that is such a vital part of Bahamian culture, diet and economy. In 2013, The Moore Bahamas Foundation grant helped to raise community awareness of the threats to conch, and to educate about the most recent scientific findings surrounding the decline of conch population as well as the importance of increased regulation.

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BirdLife International: Hundreds of important nature sites threatened with destruction

According to a new report by BirdLife International, more than 350 of the planet's most important bird natural habitats are being threatened and could possibly be lost forever. Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) are places of international significance for the conservation of the world's birds and other animals and plants, over twelve thousand of these IBAs have been identified worldwide.

There are 285 IBAs in the Caribbean, documented in a range of regional and national publications. With the BirdLife network as chief advocate, these internationally important sites for bird conservation are being mainstreamed into conservation and development planning, and national legislation by various governments. Of these 285 IBAs in the Caribbean, 42 of them are in The Bahamas.

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MS Hamburg makes inaugural call to Nassau

German-registered cruise liner MS Hamburg was welcomed by the thunderous sounds of Junkanoo recently as it made its inaugural voyage to Nassau - bringing with it over 300 passengers. The cruise liner, which travels all over the world to places like New York, Chicago, Greenland, the Amazons, the Middle East and throughout Europe is owned by the Conti Group and operated by Plantours Kreuzfahrten.

During a special inaugural ceremony in the ship's bridge - rarely seen by passengers - Director General of Tourism Joy Jibrilu gave a "warm welcome" to The Bahamas.

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Leading broker says time ripe for Nassau skyline

A leading real estate broker said Monday the time has come to recognize that Nassau is not a village, but a city and like all notable world cities, deserves a skyline.

"Build up, not out, and provide for green space and harbour views," said Mario Carey, founder and president of MCR, one of the most successful property sales, leasing and management companies in The Bahamas. "We have always treated Nassau with kid gloves -- as if it were a small village that needed coddling, afraid to touch the height of buildings while allowing windows, doors and other architectural elements to change so much that most structures would no longer qualify for an historic register. So we are caught in a time warp -- pretending to protect and failing to move forward."

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350 graduate from Baha Mar's Leadership Development Institute

Three-hundred and fifty students graduated from Baha Mar's Leadership Development Institute (LDI) on Wednesday, with guaranteed job offers to become the newest citizens of the Baha Mar Nation. Among the graduates were five students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) who are thriving as part of a team at LDI, a non-profit training organization supported by Baha Mar to provide free training in job readiness and life skills.

The students joined LDI's third class this past July, participating in the day class for men and women ages 16-to-24 years. The intense 16-week day and night classes also provided training for students25 years and older, in areas such as communication and time management, leadership, numeracy and parenting skills.

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BTVI college fair attracts scores of students

Despite inclement weather, scores of Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institution (BTVI) students flocked to the institution's recent college fair to gain information inclusive of scholarship opportunities. Present were Fanshawe College and Holland College, Canadian institutions, along with Bethune-Cookman University, located in Daytona Beach, Florida. This was in addition to the Ministry of Education Scholarship and Educational Loans division, the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Lyford Cay Foundation.

"It was a one-stop shop where students learned what schools offer, but also what funding is available. These institutions weren't randomly picked; they are a few of the colleges we are affiliated with through articulation agreements or Memorandums of Understanding," said BTVI's Student Affairs Coordinator, Racquel Bethel.

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Chinese Embassy makes donation to Fox Hill community

The Fox Hill Festival Committee got a helping hand on Friday when the Chinese Embassy made a donation to assist in defraying the cost of various committee projects for the further development of the Fox Hill community. Making the presentation was Chinese Ambassador to The Bahamas Yuan Guisen and accepting on behalf of the committee was Co-Chair Benjamin Rahming.

The presentation was made in front of the partially completed Fox Hill Community Center on the corner of Fox Hill Road and Eden Street.

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Palm Cay Marina projects smooth sailing and best season yet

The manager of New Providence's newest full-service marina said Wednesday he is expecting a "solid season" that could see as much at 50% improvement in boat slip rentals and an even greater increase in fuel and other service-related sales. Demaro Demeritte, dockmaster at Palm Cay Marina, offered the positive projection after the third hurricane-free year.

"In one week, the official hurricane season will close and at this point there is nothing on the horizon that gives us cause to worry," said Demeritte, who took the helm of the 194-slip marina in 2014, less than two years after it opened and months after it was equipped with full fuel service, sophisticated electrical hook-ups and wi-fi, placing it in a position to compete with marinas that cater to luxury vessels.

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Thanksgiving reflections from the Humane Society of Grand Bahama

Even though Thanksgiving is not an official Bahamian holiday, it has become more and more popular here as a time of year to give thanks in general (and also eat some delicious food). There's never anything wrong with being grateful - or eating good food! On this Thanksgiving ... we are thankful for a number of things.

1. We are thankful to still be here! To be honest, this last year has been extremely tough. Some of our regular financial support was cut pretty drastically, and due to ongoing economic lows, our base of support has become even narrower. However, we are still standing - still open - and still serving our clients; the homeless, abandoned, neglected and abused animals of Grand Grand Bahama. Which means we are also still serving the wider community and the people of Grand Bahama.

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Domestic investment projects driving economic rebound

The $2M investment for the construction of Wendy's new flagship location was described as "A clear indication of investor confidence and continued commitment to the Grand Bahama economy," by President of The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA), Ian Rolle, during his remarks at the official opening of Wendy's recently.

"The opening of Wendy's new flagship location marks a special occasion on numerous levels, not only for the owners of the Wendy's franchise, but for the Grand Bahama community as well," stated Rolle. "I say this because; today we share in celebrating a milestone of success for a local business and investor," he continued.

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First graders enjoy tours of Rand Nature Centre

The Grand Bahama arm of the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) recently hosted first grades from Mary Star and Central Church of God School to a visit of the Rand Nature Centre. The young students visited this national park to learn about plants and animals found in the pine forest, and Rand Nature Centre Office Manager Lisa Wildgoose hosted the tour.

"We love it when little children come to the Rand Nature Centre," said Lakeshia Anderson, Grand Bahama Parks Manager. "Kids love being outside and exploring, and our national parks are a great place to explore, as there's a great deal of things we can teach them about out envrionment when they visit us."

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Keep Grand Bahama Clean hosts high school PSA competition

Over the years the Keep Grand Bahama Clean (KGBC) initiative has hosted many competitions at the primary, junior high and senior high levels, with the aim of raising the awareness of the importance of keeping a clean environment amongst the youth of the island. In commemoration of the 8th anniversary of KGBC during the month of October, which is also recognized nationally as Youth Month, the committee once again thought it was fitting to incorporate a youth component in the celebrations.

According to committee chairperson and GBPA Environmental Manager, Nakira Wilchcombe, "there is so much talent amongst our youth, and with this very important issue of keeping a clean environment, which impacts us all as residents, it is both exciting and thought provoking to learn from our students as they seek to make us all conscious about the environmental issues that exists and the need for us all to be better stewards of what God has given us."

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GBPA executives host US Embassy officials

Officials from the United States Embassy paid a courtesy call on The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA), this past week, during a visit to Grand Bahama. The new Political, Economic & Commercial Chief, Mr. David Allen, accompanied by Political Officer, Yancy Caruthers and Hank Ferguson, Economic Specialist, met with GBPA executives, President Ian Rolle, Deann Seymour Chief Financial Officer and Senior Business Development Manager, Derek Newbold.

Visiting officials enjoyed a tour of the city's industrial and commercial sectors, which was preceded by a detailed 'Invest Grand Bahama' presentation given by Derek Newbold. "Grand Bahama has a great deal to offer by way of investment opportunities," Newbold explained as he provided an extensive overview of the island's tourism, commercial and industrial sectors.

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Resorts World Bimini donates heavy equipment to Local Government

A top-of-the-line backhoe and dump truck were donated to the Bimini Local Government Town Council on Monday by Resorts World Bimini (RWB) as part of the corporate citizen's ongoing support of efforts to beautify the island. The two heavy-duty vehicles have a combined value of more than $50,000.

Several Town Council members were on hand as RWB Senior VP of Non-Gaming Operations in Bimini Farooq Rehmatwala handed over keys to the vehicles to Chief Councilor Robbie Smith. Mr. Smith expressed gratitude for the generous gift, saying it will be put to good use.

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Month-to-month fixed rate slip rental plan launched at Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina

The historic Big Game Club Resort & Marina has a plan that will float your boat for a fixed monthly flat rate this winter. For many, keeping their boats secured in Bimini, is a cost-effective and safe travel decision, as fuel costs and unpredictable winter seas make travel from Florida and surrounding islands a challenge.

Located on the main navigation channel in Bimini Bay, The Big Game Club provides a 75-slip marina capable of accommodating boats up to 145 feet in length.

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Bahamian author releases creative children's book

Bahamian author, Tiffany D. Meadows, hosted a book reading on Monday, November 24, 2014, at the Sir Charles Hayward Children's Library. She presented her first children's book, Let's Meet LaDena, which was recently released. Students from two local institutions, Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Academy and Kindercare Learning Centre, attended the event. During her visit, Ms. Meadows donated copies of the book to the library.

The book will be officially launched at Kelly's Freeport Limited on Saturday, November 29, 2014 beginning at 10:00 am. The author will be on site. Interested persons will be able to purchase signed copies of the book and have their picture taken with the author and the title character, LaDena, who will also make an appearance.

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Rosetta Cartwright off to London to compete in Miss World

Hello London! Hello World! After traveling for some 24 hours from Puerto Rico, to the U.S., to England, the lovely Miss World Bahamas Rosetta Cartwright has touched down in London where she will compete in one of the world's largest and most prestigious pageants - Miss World!

Rosetta has been preparing for months for this opportunity of a lifetime, and she vows to do her best to put The Bahamas on the map before an audience of over a billion pageant fans worldwide. Bahamians can show their support by downloading the Miss World app on your Iphone or Android free of charge and voting for Rosetta as the people's choice winner.

The Miss World pageant will be held on December 14th.

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U.S. Embassy announces 9th annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. essay competition

The United States Embassy in Nassau is pleased to announce the launch of the 9th annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay contest. The purpose of the contest is to encourage students to explore the life of Dr. King and his impact on the civil rights movement. All high school students in The Bahamas ages 15-18 years old are invited to participate in the contest.

This year's theme is "Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. worked very hard to highlight the importance of equality and human rights for all regardless of race, gender, religion, ethnicity, disability, citizenship, socio-economic status, etc. He partnered with community leaders, government officials, schools and many others to ensure the fight for equality was a collaborative effort locally and nationally."

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Ivory to Ashes - A Bahamian exhibition to save African elephants

'Ivory to Ashes' a riveting watercolour exhibition by Susan Sargent will open on Friday, December 5th from 6-9pm at Doongalik Studios, #20 Village Road. Susan Sargent is a visual artist and wildlife activist who is bringing her passion regarding the future of the African elephant across the continents and seas to raise awareness in The Bahamas on this global predicament.

"I find the plight of global wildlife in our modern era my impetus for becoming an artist-activist. The African Elephant, particularly, has inspired me to become a part of bringing awareness to the dire situation this species is in. Using the visual language of my artwork I hope to give voice to those with whom we share the earth but cannot speak for themselves."

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Promoting The Bahamas in China through film

As the world's fastest-growing economy, China offers enormous opportunities for The Bahamas tourism industry. Bahamaren's marketing in China targets consumers who are unaware of The Bahamas and are considering new destinations to experience. Awareness of The Bahamas is growing in China through targeted strategies, public relations, and marketing activities undertaken by Bahamaren alongside airlines and travel trade organizations.

The aim of promoting The Bahamas through "Film Tourism" will provide our potential travelers with a more convenient and firsthand view of what The Bahamas has to offer. Bahamaren is now working together with its partner China Travel Service to capitalize on opportunities that will cover The Bahamas tourism products and leverage the attention that The Bahamas will receive by "starring" in films.

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Bahamas Half Marathon and 10k event a sell-out in second year

The Bahamas Half Marathon and 10k second instance took place on Sunday, November 23rd. The race grew tremendously from its inaugural year to a sell-out race at a maximum capacity of 600 registrants. The participants took part in one of three races which occurred simultaneously: the 13.1 mile half marathon, the half marathon relay, and the 10k (6.2 mile) race.

Two elite athletes were present, Mitch Guirard from Florida and Maria Pavkovitch from New York. Guirard easily won the half marathon in 1:17:30 with the top Bahamian male Delroy Booth coming in second a few minutes behind. The women's division of the half marathon was a hotly contest race. Pavkovitch finished in 1:34:13 followed by Bahamian Crystal Strachan who crossed just 13 seconds after the winner.

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LIS' 4th annual Turkey Trot set for December 6

In their ongoing efforts to support the Grand Bahama Children's Home, Lucaya International School (LIS) is getting ready to host their 4th annual Turkey Trot fundraiser which will be held Saturday, December 6th at 8am, starting at Banana Bay restaurant.

"We are all very excited about this year's Turkey Trot fun run and walk," said Cath Hindley, IB/IGCSE Geography Teacher at LIS. "This is the 4th consecutive year the event has taken place and each year it seems to become bigger and more popular, both within our school community and also within the greater Grand Bahama community."

The Turkey Trot is a fun event with prizes for age group winners.

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Baha Mar and the TPC Network annouce TPC at Baha Mar

Baha Mar, the $3.5 billion integrated gaming resort opening in the Spring of 2015 in Nassau, The Bahamas, has partnered with the PGA TOUR's TPC Network to announce TPC at Baha Mar. The Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course is the TPC Network's first Caribbean golf course and will be a complement to the resort's elite collection of hotel brands - The Baha Mar Casino & Hotel, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts®, Grand Hyatt and SLS LUX - as well as an ESPA spa and a myriad of other remarkable experiences.

"We are very proud that TPC at Baha Mar is the newest property in the PGA TOUR's prestigious TPC Network of resort and private golf courses," said Sarkis Izmirlian, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Baha Mar. "We're committed to looking for the most extraordinary partners from around the world, whether it is at tee time or dinner time, to bring the best of the best to our guests at the new Bahamian Riviera."

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Bahamas weekly fishing report from Harbourside Marine

Fishing report as of November 20, 2014

Nassau: The charter boat captains have reported that they have been successful catching wahoo off the ledge when the seas have been calm enough to fish.

North Exuma, Highbourne Cay: The were a lot of wahoo caught in the Exuma Sound earlier in the week. It is expected to be good after this front passes through.

Andros: There are reports of some smaller wahoo caught off of north Andros. Rumour has it that the north bouy is still there but it is 60ft below the surface!

Cat Island, Hawks Nest: There have been many wahoo up to 60lbs caught this week.

Photo: Don't Complain! How many Bahamians would go fishing if they had to endure this? It hasn't dropped below 80 degrees and plenty of people are wearing sweaters and leather jackets!

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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.

Letter to the Editor: Pam Burnside asks: Where is our spunk 2?

Dear Editor,

I would like to thank Mr Pat Strachan for his follow up letter in this week's edition of The Nassau Guardian in response to my letter.

On Tuesday night we opened a ceramics exhibition by Joann Behagg entitled "All Dead, All Gone" which examines the frightening plight of our fishing resources in the country as a result of indiscriminate development, overfishing, poaching, and basic apathy which was hauntingly emphasized by the Ministry of Finance's advertisement of thousands of pounds of fish that were confiscated from ONE poaching vessel that was caught. Imagine the amount of Bahamian fishery resources that are stolen from the hundreds of vessels that are not interdicted!

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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.

November 28: Broadway Under the Stars - featuring Franz Hepburn. To benefit the Bahamas Humane Society, at Jacaranda House. Click HERE for more information.

November 28-30: Looking Back: One Hundred Years of Art in The Bahamas - at 22 Howard Street, Chippingham, next to Popopstudios. 10am open. For more information, please call Jay Koment at (242) 424-0074.

November 29: Heritage Village Christmas Festival - Click HERE to view the poster for details.

December 4-14: Bahamas International Film Festival - Visit http://www.bintlfilmfest.com/ for more info. Click HERE to download the official schedule.

December 5: Ivory to Ashes - Raising awareness of African elephant poaching, at Doongalik Studios 6-9pm. Click HERE to view the poster.

December 7: Wrapping up the Celebrations - Yodephy Dance and Modeling Academy holiday season spectacular. Click HERE to view the poster.

December 11: US Memorial Service for Dr. Myles Munroe - and his wife Pastor Ruth Munroe at Faith Center in Sunrise, FL. 7pm.

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.

January 31: Annual Red Cross Ball - at the Melia Nassau Beach Resort. $250. Save the date!

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 now up! Click HERE to learn more and register.

February 14: 51st Annual Heart Ball - at the Melia Nassau Resort. Mark your calendar for this worthwhile charity event.

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.

November 22: Bahamas Half Marathon - Half Marathon Relay and 10K event. Sold-out in 2014, don't miss it! Click HERE to visit the 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

November 27-30: Authenti-city - All things Bahamian Expo at the Grand Lucayan. Click HERE to read all about it.

November 28: Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival Grand Bahama Launch Party - and the unveiling of "The Grand Life" brand. Count Basie Square, Port Lucaya from 8pm.

November 29: Da Market - Is da place for local produce, crafts and gifts! Rand Nature Centre in the morning.

November 29: Children's Book Launch - Author Tiffany D. Meadows will be presenting her book 'Let's Meet LaDena' at Kelly's Freeport from 10am. Click HERE to read more.

November 29: Grand Bahama Diabetic Awareness Month - Circle the Sea in Blue. Port Lucaya Marina at 7:30PM.

November 29: Franz Hepburn - 7pm at the Grand Lucayan. Enjoy his deep bass baritone voice singing favourite songs from the great musicals! Tickets $50 at Bahamas Developers on Logwood Rd across from the GB Power compound or call 352 7071. Click HERE to view the poster.

November 29-30: Grand Bahama Cyclist Club's Season Closer Races - Two days of bicycle racing for all levels. Day 1 - 18 mile time trial. Day 2- 36 mile road race. Contact gb-cyclist@hotmail.com for all the information.

November 30: Cocktails and Conversations - NEW DATE. Down Syndrome fundraiser at Nesbitt's grounds 6pm-midnight. Click HERE to view the poster.

November 30: Legendary Cooling Waters 50th Golden Anniversary - "The Journey Continues" at 7PM at Freeport Bible Church.

November 30: West Grand Bahama District 1st Annual Tree Lighting and Gospel Concert - 3 pm, Administrator's Office Complex, Eight Mile Rock. Choirs, Praise Teams, Urban Renewal and Legends Marching Bands. Bouncy Castle & Santa! FREE.

December 4, 6 & 7: A Christmas Carol Scrooge - At the Regency Theatre. 8pm Thurs & Sat, 4pm Sunday. No show Friday. Click HERE to view the poster. Tickets at Kelly's and the Seventeen Shop.

December 5: Christmas City 2014 - at Freeport Gospel Chapel School featuring the Grand Bahama Youth Choir. Click HERE to view the poster for more info.

December 5: Festival Noel - Grand Bahama's most popular Christmas season annual event - at the Rand Nature Centre.   Wine, art, food! Click HERE to visit the FB events page and join in.

December 6: LIS Turkey Trot - Fun run/walk to aid the Grand Bahama Children's Home, 8am at Banana Bay. Register at Lucaya International School (LIS). Click HERE to view the poster and HERE to download the form.

December 6: Santa's Grotto at UNEXSO - Santa and his elves will be in-store from 10-12noon and 4-6pm. $5 per photo, proceeds to benefit the GB Children's Home. 373-1244 for more info.

December 12-13: Dear Santa (A Christmas Family Comedy by Norm Foster) put on by the Lucaya Youth Theatre Society - Save the dates, more information coming soon.

December 13: Christmas in the Garden - Annual event at Garden of the Groves. 11am-5pm. Call 374-7778 for info. Click HERE to view the poster.

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

December 20: Blackout - K.O. Productions Christmas party st Freeport Harbour. 9PM-until.

December 25-26: Boxing Day Celebrations - KB, Geno D, Junaknoo Rush out, Marching Bands and all of the island's Top DJs. Presented by West Grand Bahama District in conjunction with the EMR Boxing Day Committee. Sunset Village, Eight Mile Rock from 10pm on.

February 21: Kamalamee Honours Concert - At the Regency Theatre. Click HERE to read more about the honourees.

March 2015: Exact day TBD - 6th Annual Join Me on the Bridge - Celebration of International Women's Day and Women's Expo.

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

November 29: Men's Health Awareness - Mustaches for 'Movember' finale party to benefit the ABACO Cancer Society. Snappa's in Marsh Harbour, call 367-2278.

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

December 5: Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony - in Regatta Park, George Town, EXUMA. Come out and bring the whole family. Contact: Mrs. Eula Morley (242) 336-2435.

December 26: Boxing Day Junkanoo Parade - Harbour Island, ELEUTHERA. This national festival of The Bahamas showcases several elements of local culture. Contact: Harbour Island Tourist Office / (242) 333-2621.

January 8-10: Sixth Annual Great Harbour Cay Wahoo Weekend - NEW DATES - Top tier BERRY ISLAND event. Click HERE for your invitation.

January 10: Rotary Club of ABACO Golf Tournament - at Treasure Cay. Click HERE to view the poster for additional info.

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

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

February 26-March 3: Salina Point Homecoming - ACKLINS residents and former residents celebrate in true Bahamian tradition. Contact: Mr. Steven Rose / (242) 464-8521, (242) 476-0363.

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

April 22-15: Bahamas Billfish Championship #1 - GUANA CAY, at Orchid Bay Marina. Fishing in the marlin rich waters of the Abacos. Registration/new website coming in January.

May 6-9: Bahamas Billfish Championship #2 - GREEN TURTLE CAY, at the Green Turtle Club and Bluff House. Registration/new website coming in January.

May 27-30: Bahamas Billfish Championship #3 - TREASURE CAY. Registration/new website coming in January.

June 6: Pineappleman Sprint Triathlon - Gregory Town, ELEUTHERA. 500 meter swim, 16k bike and 5k run part of the annual Pineapple Festival. There will also be a 5k fun run/walk event. email tom@bahamasadventures.com for more info. Click HERE to read about 2014's race.

June 10-13: Bahamas Billfish Championship #4 Wrap-Up - MARSH HARBOUR, Abaco Beach Resort will host. Registration/new website coming in January.

July 3-11: Regatta Time in ABACO - From north to south, sailing fun and festivities throughout the cays. www.regattatimeinabaco.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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Bahamas All-Star Marching Band ready to shine at Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

The Bahamas All-Star Marching Band is taking its energetic routine and the sweet sounds of Bahamian music to the heart of New York City this Thursday for the 2014 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The group of about 120 young musicians and dancers arrived in New Jersey Tuesday afternoon to make final preparations for their historic performance. This is the first time in the parade's 88 years that an international marching band has been selected to participate.

The Bahamian band is fourth on the prestigious lineup, joining the top marching bands in the United States, theatre performers, elaborate floats, and famous balloons.

According to assistant band director Luke Caley, the performance will be full of surprises, and one that fans do not want to miss. "We added a little flair to some of our most popular routines. We have something different for our fans, including new uniforms, and you may not even recognize us when we come out fourth on Thursday morning" said an excited Caley. "It speaks volumes that a band from a small country like The Bahamas was chosen as the first international group to participate in a big parade like this one."

The parade will be broadcast live on NBC between 9am and 12pm on Thursday, November 27th.

It will also be streamed online at NBC.com.

Bahamians everywhere are encouraged to tune in and support the Bahamas All-Stars as they make history, and put The Islands of The Bahamas on the map.

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