Bahama Islands Info Newsletter

News :: Events :: Opportunities

VOL V. No. 20, October 1, 2015

This week in Bahama Islands Info

National News

Nassau News

Grand Bahama News

Family Islands News

Arts & Entertainment News

Sports News

Bahamasair flight cancellations due Hurricane Joaquin

Bahamasair wishes to advise the travelling public, that due to the impending arrival of Hurricane Joaquin, the following flights will be cancelled Thursday October 1, 2015.

Long Island
Georgetown Exuma
All Eleuthera Flights
Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Island

Persons travelling to and from these destinations tomorrow can contact our reservations department to make alternate reservations. All other domestic flights and flights to Florida will operate as usual.

Click here to read more

Princess Anne welcomed at Government House

Her Excellency Dame Marguerite Pindling, Governor General of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas received HRH The Princess Royal, Princess Anne in a Welcome Reception at Government House on Sunday, September 27, 2015 attended by the Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Perry G. Christie, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Sen. the Hon. Allyson Maynard Gibson, and Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture the Hon. Dr. Daniel Johnson.

The Princess, who is president of the Caribbean-Canada Emerging Leaders' Dialogue (CCELD), arrived in Nassau Sunday afternoon as the first stop of her tour of the Dialogue taking place among young, emerging leaders in Canada and the Caribbean.

Click here to read more

World Learning and USAID US$5.8 million grant impacts HIV programs for NGOs in Jamaica and The Bahamas

Fourteen NGOs in The Bahamas and Jamaica were recipients of a US$5.8 million, 5-year (Five years in JA, 3 years in Bahamas) Grant from World Learning (WL) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for educational programs, aimed towards HIV/AIDS prevention where over 17,000 people were impacted.

Recently, a closing out ceremony was held in Nassau, Bahamas on September 18th, 2015 recognizing the Bahamian partners and the Bahamas Ministry of Health.

Click here to read more

Bahamian Contractors' Association elects new board and shifts focus

The Bahamian Contractors' Association (BCA) is pleased to announce their new board as a result of elections held on September 24, 2015. The nominations were received and voting conducted in pursuant to the rules of the Association. Some of the elected officials have served with the BCA for many years and joining are a few new members.

The board consists of: Leonard Sands, President, Tameka Hanna, Vice-President, Robyn Lee Oglvie, Secretary and Michael Pratt as Treasurer. Trustees include: Deborah Deal, Tony Joudi; and council members are: Charles Kemp, Danny Lowe Jr., Anthon Miller, Elvis Clarke, Odley Aritis and Charlene Collie. Serving as Immediate Past President is Godfrey Forbes.

Click here to read more

Commonwealth Brewery teams with Ministry of Transport, AIDS Foundation to promote moderation in alcohol consumption

Commonwealth Brewery recently celebrated a campaign that it considers as important as anything it has ever done - promoting safe living by rewarding drivers with non-alcoholic beverages, passing out bumper stickers, educational material and marketing the message about the importance of moderation.

It was the second year that Heineken worldwide marked Enjoy Responsibly Day and the first year that Commonwealth Brewery in The Bahamas joined the movement, becoming one of 54 participating markets.

Click here to read more

Callenders aviation law expert urges industry regulations: 'Serious drone incident not if, but when'

With industry analysts predicting sales of up to one million drones for Christmas, a top aviation lawyer today said drone regulations can't come soon enough. "I do not want to sound an alarm but am eager to call attention to what is a very real and growing threat to aviation safety," said Llewellyn Boyer-Cartwright, partner at Callenders & Co.

The sought-after expert in international aviation matters said it is not a matter of if, but when a serious incident will occur as a result of drone activity. "It is imperative for The Bahamas to move sensibly, but without delay, in establishing regulations to guide the industry," he said.

Click here to read more

Minister Griffin signs protocol ratifying U.N. Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Minister of Social Services and Community Development Melanie Griffin signed the protocol ratifying the U.N. Convention of the Rights of Persons With Disabilities on behalf of the Government and the people of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas on Monday, September 28, 2015. She also acceded to two optional protocols associated with the Convention on the Rights of The Child.

Ratification of the U.N. Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities is a culmination of three years of advocacy: The Bahamas signed onto the Convention in September 2013; passed national legislation in December 2014; and implemented the legislation earlier this year.

Click here to read more

New payment option for WSC customers - helping their clients stay off the line

Continuing its efforts to improve bill payment options for customers, the Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) has teamed up with Omni Financial Group. The Omni Financial Group will facilitate collections services on behalf of the Corporation through their Omni Locations and across the Mango payments platform.

"The opportunity to begin this new relationship with the Water & Sewerage Corporation is exciting for us at Omni Financial Group," said Barry Malcolm, Chief Executive Officer of Mango and Omni FlashCA$H.

Click here to read more

A thank-you letter as Seahorse Institute celebrates 5th anniversary

The Seahorse Institute is celebrating its 5th anniversary! Thank you for your ongoing support in our efforts to help children with Autism and developmental delays. It is because of your concern for and dedication to our children that we have been able to provide the highest quality education and therapies to help them reach their full potential.

This means that children who weren't able to talk, now can; those who couldn't walk, now can. Those children who would have been left behind by the mainstream education system, are succeeding and thriving. In the past five years, Seahorse Institute has helped to bring hope and success to over two hundred children and their families.

Click here to read more

Conversation among brothers: COB Sigmas hold HIV/AIDS seminar targeting young men

Young men at The College of The Bahamas had a frank and honest conversation about HIV/AIDS on Thursday September 24, 2015 at the Harry C. Moore Library on the college campus as the collegiate chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. launched the series "Conversation Among Brothers".

This community-based program is one of the fraternity's international programs designed to raise awareness regarding HIV/AIDS and targets college men on college campuses. It is designed to encourage ongoing peer-to-peer discussions about HIV/AIDS.

Click here to read more

Sales brisk at THIRTY | SIX

If anyone ever needed evidence that the real estate market in The Bahamas is strong when the right product in the right place at the right price is offered, they need look no further than a sophisticated luxury condominium complex on Paradise Island where over one-third of the residences have been sold prior to the official launch.

"Paradise Island is home to many of the world's top business executives, elite athletes, and Hollywood celebrities," said Matthew Marco, Director of Sales and Marketing for Aristo Development, which is developing the project in partnership with Sterling Financial Group.

Click here to read more

Message to parents: 'Get involved in your child's education, success is a family matter'

For the sixth consecutive year, Cabinet ministers, education officials and Commonwealth Bank joined forces September 12 to present a parenting forum ushering in the new school year but this year the message was stronger than ever - if you want your children to succeed in school, you must get involved. Success, they said, was a family matter.

"There is no substitute for parental involvement, certainly not games, Facebook and other forms of social media," said Minister of Social Services and Community Development Melanie Griffin, addressing nearly 300 students and parents gathered at the Kendal GL Isaacs National Gymnasium.

Click here to read more

reEarth writes: Dolphins and democracy

For 25 years reEarth has fought for environmental and animals rights. But in this case there is a lot more at stake than dolphins. The rule of law and due public process which has been so eroded by successive governments is under attack again. The Blackbeard's Cay case is a life line that Justice Isaacs' has thrown out to us in dark waters of tyrannical, corrupt, irresponsible and arrogant governance.

It has occurred to reEarth for a long time now that we have not just been fighting for the environment or the dolphins, we are fighting to free ourselves from the abuse of power by a government that appears to choose not to comply with the law and now a very direct court order.

Click here to read more

Guy Harvey Outpost and Old Bahama Bay support local education with large donation to West End Primary School

More than $5,000 in proceeds from the Guy Harvey Outpost inspired Burning Wahoo Bonfire Series fishing tournaments hosted by Old Bahama Bay Resort & Yacht Harbor have been donated to the West End Primary School.

Cliff Jensen, Guy Harvey Outpost's Director of Sport Fishing and Watersports along with GM James Culmer and Resort Manager Jackie Carroll with Old Bahama Bay Resort recently met with school principal Navidia Mills and students for a ceremonial cheque presentation.

Click here to read more

Judge rules for continuation of Hawksbill Creek Review Committee consultation process

Members of the Hawksbill Creek Review Committee were in Supreme Court in Freeport on Friday to hear arguments set forth by the Grand Bahama Port Authority and the Licensees of the GBPA dealing with obtaining copies of the McKinsey Report.

The government appointed the committee to meet and negotiate with representatives of the Grand Bahama Port Authority, investors, relevant public, private sector and community interests, so as to recommend to the government arrangements for securing both an economic package to promote more robust sustained growth, and a fiscal package that enhances Grand Bahama's contribution to the government's revenue base.

Click here to read more

Farmer's Market in Freeport being refurbished

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Urban Development, the Hon. Philip Brave Davis, was on Grand Bahama on Thursday September 24. Mr. Davis was the guest speaker at The Bahamas Society of Engineers Annual Northern Branch Workshop and Luncheon. While here in Freeport, Mr. Davis visited the site of the Farmer's Market that is being refurbished by SRA Construction Company Limited at cost of $250,000.00.

When completed, there will be 28 brightly-coloured stalls, and a Gazebo that will allow visiting guests to enjoy Bahamian delicacies. The work at the Farmer's Market is expected to be completed in 12 weeks.

Click here to read more

Blessing of the animals - Sunday, October 4

Bring your animals, large or small, furred or feathered, to be blessed on Sunday, October 4th, in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi's love and compassion for all creatures. Come early and enjoy a lovely brunch in the tranquil setting of the Garden Cafe (animals welcome).

For everyone's safety, all animals must be under handler's control/restraint at all times. Dogs must be leashed, cats and other small animals crated, and un-clipped birds tethered or crated.

No admission fee; although donations for our shelter animals would be gratefully received as always, this is not a fundraiser. This event is for the entire community, to celebrate and recognize our animal friends.

Click here to read more

More Bahamian engineers needed

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Works and Urban Development, the Hon. Philip Davis said more young Bahamians need to be encouraged to join the ranks of engineers, in his address of the Northern Branch of the Bahamas Society of Engineers at their 2015 Grand Bahama Annual Meeting and Workshop Luncheon at Ruby Swiss Restaurant on Thursday.

The Deputy Prime Minister commended the Northern Branch for pursuing new opportunities for their members and remaining abreast of new trends in engineering. Reminding the group that the Northern Bahamas includes other islands in the north, Deputy Prime Minister Davis said he flew in from Abaco having addressed The Bahamas Business Outlook Seminar under the theme, "Securing Our Abaco Through Partnership, Planning and Productivity."

Click here to read more

MOT, NAS and BNT partner for world-class bird watching training workshop

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism (BMOT), the National Audubon Society (NAS) and the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) recently held a special bird watching training workshop in Central Andros to help train persons looking to get involved in this new, lucrative niche market.

The $2.6 billion project - funded by the Inter-American Development Bank - partners with local NGOs in Belize, The Bahamas, Guatemala and Paraguay to utilise the bird-watching market to create sustainable jobs in communities while simultaneously protecting biodiversity and natural resources.

Click here to read more

Pre-paid cards hit North Andros to the delight of locals

North Andros became the first Family Island community to receive Pre-Paid Visa Cards Tuesday, when 168 clients who have qualified for the Department of Social Services Food Assistance Programme received their cards "fully loaded and ready to be used immediately."

Criteria for qualification for the Food Assistance Programme include those persons enduring genuine economic hardships, low-income wage earners, senior citizens, persons with disabilities on a fixed income who do not have other means of support, and the unemployed.

Click here to read more

Why no North Bimini marine reserve?

EARTHCARE asks, "With the establishment of 18 new Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) being hailed as an important victory in the ongoing fight to protect the unique ecological heritage of The Bahamas, why then, was one of the 19 proposed MPAs, specifically the North Bimini Marine Protected Area (NBMR), omitted from the designation?"

In January of 2000, North Bimini was listed as the "HIGHEST PRIORITY" site in the entire country for an MPA. North Bimini, along with 4 other sites, were deemed as the first 5 MPA's to be established, and the goal was to have all 5 of these sites fully protected by 2002.

Click here to read more

Kylie Butler to represent Bahamas at Miss Heritage pageant

In September of this year, newly appointed national director and former beauty queen Ms. Kerel Pinder officially selected Grand Bahama native; Kylie Butler as the 2015 Miss Heritage Bahamas delegate.

Kylie is a 19-year-old honors graduate of Bishop Michael Eldon High School. She is currently pursuing her Biochemistry degree at the College of the Bahamas' Northern Campus. Although Kylie is a fresh face to pageantry, she is no stranger to the stage. Kylie began her modeling career four years ago and is now excited about the opportunity to represent her country on an international stage.

Click here to read more

Filmmaker eyes Bahamas for big projects

The Bahamas' pristine, blue waters could once again be the backdrop of another major film. Film producer Andrew Erwin just wrapped up his new film Woodlawn, which stars actress Sherry Shepard. Recently, the two were a part of delegation of 20 journalists who were invited on a special familiarization trip to The Bahamas by Lead Pastor Mount Tabor Full Gospel Church Bishop Neil C. Ellis.

Bishop Ellis partnered with the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism to bring the group that visited New Providence and Bimini. After the tours, Erwin admitted that he fell in love with The Bahamas' natural beauty.

Click here to read more

Beauty queen joins the fight against HIV/AIDS

Miss Universe Bahamas Toria Nicole made her first official to the Bahamas AIDS Foundation Thursday as the newest spokesperson for the charity organization. In her new role as a beauty ambassador Toria will work along with the foundation to assist in their fundraising efforts, become actively involved in the work of the foundation and hopefully bring more national attention to HIV/AIDS in The Bahamas.

Toria, who will represent the Bahamas at the Miss Universe competition learned about the work of AIDS Foundation and the role she will now play.

Click here to read more

Female outdoors writer blogs about fishing Bahamas/Florida

The outdoors adventures that veteran writer Sue Cocking brought to the front door for Miami Herald subscribers over two decades are now reaching a national audience courtesy of a popular fan-interactive website hosted by Guy Harvey Outpost Resorts.

Considered the preeminent woman outdoors writer in America, Cocking's first-person accounts of her travels cover a colorful, action-packed and sometimes edgy series of field reports covering Florida, The Bahamas and beyond.

Click here to read more

Justin-Dominic Carey wins Back to School Sailing Regatta

The Back to School Regatta was held on Saturday and Sunday, September 12 & 13 having been previously postponed as a result of bad weather. Winds on the two days were near perfect for the junior racing, which took place close to Montagu Beach ensuring all spectators a great view.

After a full day of racing on Saturday (Sunday being a non- event due to a no-show by the sloop sailors) Justin-Dominic Carey from S.C. McPherson Jr. High walked away with the individual Top Sailor trophy after winning all six races in the 11 boat Sunfish Fleet, which was for the 13 to 18 year old sailors.

Click here to read more

Guy Harvey Outpost's popular 'Burning Wahoo' Bonfire Series Tournament returns to Old Bahama Bay for February 2016

The Bonfire Fishing Tournament Series, created and managed by Guy Harvey Outpost Resorts, has announced dates for the Second Annual Burning Wahoo Tournament, scheduled for February 25-28, 2016 on West End, Grand Bahama.

Chasing wahoo along West End's Wahoo Alley and beyond this February will be top anglers looking to take home cash, prizes and bragging rights for the newest edition of the popular "Burning Wahoo" Bonfire Series tournament hosted by Old Bahama Bay Resort and Yacht Harbour.

Click here to read more

Sandals encourages its team to shoot for the stars

When Sony Boa returns to Sandals Royal Bahamian from Jamaica, he will be a certified dive instructor. He will be joining four of his team members - all Bahamian - as a highly-certified diver.

His manager, Reggie Vickers, insisted Mr. Boa and others on their team reach the top of their profession. "I won't let them settle for less," said Mr. Vickers, who oversees the entire operation of the resort's Aqua Centre. Continuous personal development is greatly encouraged throughout the Sandals brand, and at Sandals Royal Bahamian's watersports centre, Bahamians are being pushed to fully develop themselves.

Click here to read more

Palm Cay Marina voted best in Nassau by boaters

For the second consecutive year, Palm Cay Marina won high praise from boaters but this year for the first time, the 194-slip marina on the southeast coast of New Providence was voted the best in New Providence. The ranking followed reviews by dozens of users on a website called ActiveCaptain.com, the equivalent of TripAdvisor for boaters.

"Every year when Active Captain releases its reviews and tallies annual scores, marinas wait with great anticipation and for us, being relatively new to be among the top three in the country out of some 150 marinas and the best in Nassau is incredibly exciting," said Palm Cay Dockmaster Demaro Demeritte.

Click here to read more

Muddasick! What's bugging you?

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 2015 calendar.

October 3: Swift Swimming 5K Open Water Swim - at Palm Cay. Registration starts at 8am, race at 10.

October 3: Paradise Plates - 7-11pm at Atlantis. Funds raised towards Hands For Hunger.

October 3-4: Green Earth Festival - at the BNT Retreat, Village Rd.

October 4: Walk for the Cure - 100% of Bahamian proceeds go to local cancer organizations. Click HERE to read more.

October 10: 1st annual Masters Swim Meet - St John's College Pool, warm-up from 8am. Click HERE to view the poster.

October 10: Fifth Harmony - LIVE at Atlantis! 363-6601 for tickets and info.

October 17-18: 20TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CULTURE WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL - from 10 am to 6 pm at the Botanical Gardens, Nassau.

October 24: Paint Da Streets Pink - 3rd annual Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial event. Starts 6am at Arawak Cay, registration at 5am. Goodies will be provided with registration. Email rotaract.senc.bahamas@gmail.com for more.

October 28-31: Caribbean Muzik Festival - The biggest names in Caribbean music performing live! Click HERE for more info.

October 30-31: BNT Wine & Art Festival - at the Retreat, Village Rd. Artist applications available until September 11.

November 22: Bahamas Half Marathon & 10K - Third year for this ultra-popular running race. Click HERE to visit the website and register. Sold out in 2014.

November 25-27: Battle 4 Atlantis - Basketball tournament. Click HERE to visit the website.

November 28: BREEF Gala - Theme: Under the Sea. More info coming, save the date!

December 9-12: BIFF 2015 - The 12th annual Bahamas International Film Festival returns. Rated one of the 25 coolest film festivals by MovieMaker Magazine! Click HERE to visit the BIFF website.

December 17-20: Atlantis Crown Gymnastics Invitational - Imperial Ballroom. Male and female gymnasts from Nassau and Freeport ages 6 and up will be represented as well as athletes from the United States and Canada. www.atlantiscrown.com.

January 16-17, 2016: Marathon Bahamas Weekend - Includes marathon, relay, half marathon and Susan G. Komen 5K. Click HERE to visit the website.

February 14: Ride For Hope - The Bahamas' most popular charity event on two wheels will be offering up some Valentine's fun in 2016. Click HERE to visit the website for updates throughout the year.

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.
__________________________________________________

GRAND BAHAMA EVENTS

October 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29: Health Is Wealth Lunch & Learn Series

Be a part of the open discussion on various Health & Wellness Topics with Professionals such as Fitness Experts, Physicians, Dermatologists, Nutritionists & more @ 1 p.m. at Garden Delite (Pelican Bay, Canal House - 4th Floor).

October 3: Hope Ball Health Fair - At Royal Bank of Canada from 10 a.m.-2p.m.

October 3: Rotary Club of Freeport Wine & Cheese - Third annual event! Sailing Club, 7pm start. Tickets available from Rotary Club of Freeport members now. Click HERE to view the poster.

October 3: Coco Chanel Principles of Business for Women - at the Grand Lucayan Resort. Click HERE to visit the FB page.

October 4: Blessing of the Animals - in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi's love and compassion for all creatures. Click HERE for details.

October 5: The Legal Desk - Free business legal advice from Attorney Rengin Johnson at the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce, 5:15 p.m.-6:30 p.m. To register call 352-8329.

October 10: Relay for Cancer - A Fast Track Management event at Taino Beach, 6am. Click HERE to download the entry and information form.

October 10: Freeport Players' Guild Zombie Run - at Garden of the Groves, 5pm. Spooky fun!

October 11: The Warrior Campaign: Burning of the Bra - At Island Seas @ 6 p.m.

October 12: 43rd annual McLean's Town Conch Cracking Festival - the holiday Monday of Heroes Day. How fast can you crack out a conch? Click HERE to read more.

October 14-18: Deeper Life Ministries Conference: Going Beyond the Norm - Featuring guest speaker Pastor Claudette Basden. At Pelican Bay Hotel in Delphine's Room @ 7 p.m.

October 16: The Warrior Campaign: Pink Party - @ The Grand Lucayan. @ 7 p.m.

October 17: Cancer Society Hope Ball - @ 7p.m. in the Grand Ballroom, Grand Lucayan Resort.

October 19: Grand Bahama Home and Daycare for the Aged and Children 25th Anniversary Raffle - Grand Prize is the painting "Finding Joy" by Chantal Bethel. Call 352-5408 for tix.

October 23: The Warrior Campaign: Rock da Block - At Entwined in The International Bazaar from 5 p.m.-until.

October 23: Small Business Fair - 10am-4pm, Petticoat Lane and Churchill Square downtown. Click HERE to view the poster.

October 24: 'No Fleas' Flea Market - and microchip clinic at the Humane Society, 10am-1pm. Click HERE to view the poster.

October 24: Zion Baptist Community Church Health Run/Walk - Zion Baptist Community Church grounds start 6:30 a.m. 373-6797.

October 24: Chamber of Commerce's 6th Annual Business Excellence Awards - At the Regency Theater. Cocktails at 7 p.m. Award Show begins at 8 p.m.

October 28: The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce Monthly Business Meeting - 12:30 p.m. in Delphine's Room, Canal House at Pelican Bay Hotel. TBA

October 30: HSGB Halloween Party - Stay tuned for details!

October 31: Book reading "Room on the Broom" - by our very own witch! Unexso, 10am.

October 31: Thriller - A Michael Jackson tribute at the Regency Theater.

October 31: 25th Anniversary of the Home for the Aged - Old Fashioned Ball "The Great Waltz" at Grand Lucaya Resort. Cocktails@ 7PM - Dinner @ 8PM.

October 31: Hope Ball Health Fair - At Family Guardian Insurance Co. in the Regent Centre Office.

November 1: GB Shipyard Open Golf Tournament

- NEW DATE! Click HERE to view the poster for complete details.

November 2: The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce Presents: The Legal Desk - Free business legal advice from Attorney Rengin Johnson. At The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce @ 5:15 p.m.-6:30 p.m. To register call 352-8329.

November 5: Health Is Wealth Lunch & Learn Series - Be a part of the open discussion on various Health & Wellness Topics with Professionals such as Fitness Experts, Physicians, Dermatologists, Nutritionists & more @ 1 p.m. at Garden Delite (Pelican Bay, Canal House - 4th Floor).

November 7: Conchman Triathlon - and Iron Kids races will take place at Taino Beach. No excuses, you can do it! www.Conchman.com

November 7: Meeting of the Minds: Culinary Fusion Expo - at Pelican Bay. Click HERE to read more.

November 7: Maurice Moore Primary School Walkathon - NEW DATE! 7:30 a.m. from Maurice Moore to Taino Beach. To register contact Keva Wilchcombe at 373-7981 or 7982.

November 7: Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce 6th Annual Business Excellence Awards - Venue: TBD. Call 352-8329 for more info.

November 11: Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce AGM - 12:30 p.m. in Delphine's Room, Canal House at Pelican Bay Hotel.

November 12,19 & 26: Health Is Wealth Lunch & Learn Series - Be a part of the open discussion on various Health & Wellness Topics with Professionals such as Fitness Experts, Physicians, Dermatologists, Nutritionists & more @ 1 p.m. at Garden Delite (Pelican Bay, Canal House - 4th Floor).

November 14: St. Jude's Anglican Church 1st Annual Baby Fair & Diaper Derby - At the Parish Hall @ 12 noon-5 p.m. Event will support St. Jude's Outreach Program.

November 14-15: Freeport Rugby Club's 50th Anniversary Events - Bash and Pig Roast on Saturday, Celebration and BBQ, Old Boys vs Nassau/Boston on Sunday.

November 20: The Resonance String Quartet: "Bach to Hip Hop" - presented by the Grand Bahama Performing Arts Society. Save the date!

November 21: Mary Star of the Sea Parish Annual Bazaar - 12:00 noon - midnight.

November 21: Wine Tasting & Table Dressing for the Holidays - with ENTwineD at UNEXSO, 6:30pm.

November 27: Medical Air Services Association Customer Appreciation & Membership Drive - At #1 Seventeen Centre @ 10 a.m.-4 p.m. All members and interested members are welcomed.

November 28: Book reading with the Grinch! - 10am at Unexso.

December 4: Festival Noel - Grand Bahama's #1 holiday season event! At the Rand Nature Center 7-10PM. Click HERE to view the poster.

December 5: UNEXSO Wish List Event with Santa -- to aid the Grand Bahama Children's Home. 10am - 12 noon and 4-6pm. Call 373-1244 for details.

December 7: The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce Presents: The Legal Desk - Free business legal advice from Attorney Rengin Johnson at The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce @ 5:15 p.m.-6:30 p.m. To register call 352-8329.

December 12: 2nd Annual Santa's Bahamian Sleigh Parade - to benefit BASRA. Home port at UNEXSO, 6pm. Call 373-1244 for details.

January 9, 2016: Humane Society President's Cocktail Party - How's that for advance notice?

January 23: Pawzapalooza - A Humane Society fun fundraiser.

February 25-28: Burning Wahoo Bonfire Series Tournament - at Old Bahama Bay. Click HERE to read all about it.

February 27-28: Tour of Grand Bahama Bicycle Race - To benefit Operation Christmas Child. Second annual event for cyclists of all levels. Visit the website HERE for details throughout the year.

April 9: Dog Days Half Marathon #2 - Popular new event returns for a second year bigger and better with an added 10K and Health Expo! Click HERE to visit the official website or HERE for the FB event page.

April 16: Hair Fashion & Talent Extravaganza -

At Our Lucaya. @ 7 p.m. For more information contact 353-7101 or 646-2000.

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.
_________________________________________________________________

FAMILY ISLANDS & ABACO EVENTS

October 8-10: Coppice Festival - The venue for this Street Festival is Nicholl's Town, North ANDROS. Contact: Ms. Daisy Bowleg / (242) 329-2025 or Andros Tourist Office / (242) 368-2286, (242) 368-2891.

October 9-12: Run For Pompey Marathon-EXUMA. Visit www.runforpompey.com.

October 9-12: North Eleuthera Sailing Regatta - Class A, B, and C native sailing sloops taking to the waters off North Eleuthera, Harbour Island, and Spanish Wells. Contacts: Mrs. Lucy Johnson-Butler, Regatta Committee / (242) 333-2275 or Harbour Island Tourist Office / (242) 333-2621.

October 9-12: Wemyss Bight Homecoming Festival - ELEUTHERA. It features talent shows, Bahamian food and drinks, live band performances and local crafts. Contact: Mr. James Young / (242) 334-0162.

October 12: Inagua Conch Fest - This festival is similar to the Salty Fest, but on a smaller scale. There will be live entertainment, a variety of games for the whole family, plus local food (with an emphasis on conch) and drinks for sale. Contact: Mr. Samuel Nixon, Jr. / (242) 339-1471.

November 2-8: Governor's Harbour Homecoming Festival - ELEUTHERA. This festival attracts locals and visitors for fun-filled activities that include Junkanoo, live band performances and games. Contact: Mr. Arthur Turnquest / (242) 332-2748.

November 7: Ride For Exuma - NEW! Ultra exclusive charity bike ride to benefit the soon-to-be-opened hospital in Georgetown. Click HERE to visit the website.

November 12-14: Wahoo Smackdown VII - at the Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina. To register click HERE or call 970-708-7997 Misty Wells Tournament Director.

November 26: Hope Town Turtle Trot - Contact Friends of the Environment for details.

December 1-4: BIFF 2015 in Harbour Island - The Bahamas International Film Festival travels to ELEUTHERA. Click HERE to visit the website.

December 5-8: BIFF in Governor's Harbour - The Bahamas International Film Festival travels to central ELEUTHERA. Click HERE to visit the website.

December 12: Berry Islands' Christmas Festival - Christopher Roberts Memorial Park / Time: 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Contact: Mr. Kevin Wallace / (242) 451-0404.

February 26, 2016: Rum Cay Day Festival - Residents from neighboring Cat Island and San Salvador join in celebration with Rum Cay natives, former residents, and international visitors. It is held each year on the last Friday in February, in Port Nelson's historic Milo Butler Heritage Park. Contact: Ms. Anne Strachan - Chairperson, Rum Cay Day Committee / (242) 471-0910.

March 18-20: 5th Annual Great Abaco Family Fitness Weekend - Swim, run, triathlons and fun during a weekend at fabulous Treasure Cay. Click HERE to visit the website.

July 7-9, 2016: All Andros & Berry Island Regatta - Class A, B & C boat race. Venue is the Regatta Village in Morgan's Bluff, North Andros, which is 20 miles from the San Andros Airport. Contacts: Mr. Alphonso Smith (242) 329-2336, (242) 329-2278 / Mr. Frank Hanna (242) 323-2451, (242) 325-3306 / Administrator's Office (242) 329-2278.

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.

__________________________________________________________________

Hurricane Joaquin - Bahamas on alert

ALERT #11 ON HURRICANE JOAQUIN ISSUED BY THE BAHAMAS DEPARTMENT OF METEOROLOGY THURSDAY 1ST OCTOBER, 2015 AT 9AM EDT

...EYE OF JOAQUIN NEAR SAMANA CAY WHILE PORTIONS OF THE CENTRAL AND SOUTHEAST BAHAMAS IS EXPERIENCING TROPICAL STORM WINDS AND HEAVY RAIN...

A HURRICANE WARNING IS NOW IN EFFECT FOR THE ENTIRE BAHAMAS. A HURRICANE WARNING MEANS THAT HURRICANE CONDITIONS ARE EXPECTED SOMEWHERE WITHIN THE WARNING AREA WITHIN 36 HOURS. RESIDENTS SHOULD RUSH TO COMPLETE PREPARATION TO PROTECT LIFE AND PROPERTY.

AT 8 AM EDT THE CENTER OF HURRICANE JOAQUIN WAS LOCATED NEAR LATITUDE 23.2 DEGREES NORTH AND LONGITUDE 73.7 DEGREES WEST OR ABOUT 10 MILES NORTH OF SAMANA CAY, 41 MILES NORTH-NORTHEAST OF CROOKED ISLAND, 75 MILES SOUTHEAST OF SAN SALVADOR, 82 MILES EAST OF CLARENCE TOWN, LONG ISLAND, 130 MILES SOUTHEAST OF OLD BIGHT, CAT ISLAND, AND 260 SOUTHEAST OF NEW PROVIDENCE.

HURRICANE JOAQUIN IS MOVING TOWARD THE WEST-SOUTHWEST NEAR 5 MPH AND THIS GENERAL MOTION IS EXPECTED TO CONTINUE THROUGH TODAY. A TURN TOWARD THE WEST-NORTHWEST IS FORECAST TONIGHT, FOLLOWED BY A TURN TOWARD THE NORTH AND AN INCREASE IN FORWARD SPEED ON FRIDAY. ON THE FORECAST TRACK, THE CENTER OF JOAQUIN IS WILL MOVE NEAR OR OVER PORTIONS OF THE CENTRAL BAHAMAS TODAY AND TONIGHT, AND PASS NEAR OR OVER PORTIONS OF THE NORTHWEST BAHAMAS ON FRIDAY.

Click HERE to read more

For additional information reference the National Hurricane Center, Miami, FL - www.nhc.noaa.gov