Bahama Islands Info Newsletter

News :: Events :: Opportunities

VOL V. No. 23, October 22, 2015

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

Sports News

Feedback: Letter to the Editor

Save The Bays ready to tackle climate change head on

Senior executives for Save The Bays (STB) say they are better equipped, prepared and more energized than ever about tackling the looming specter of climate change.

Returning from a high level training workshop in Miami led by former U.S. vice president Al Gore, newly-elected STB chairman Joseph Darville and CEO of the fast-growing social and environmental movement, Vanessa Haley-Benjamin, are eager to help educate and engage Bahamians on the realities of this enormous threat to the geographical, social and economic fabric of The Bahamas.

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Cable Bahamas wins mobile spectrum auction bid and is 'ready for the next stage'

The Cellular Liberalization Task Force has announced that Cable Bahamas Ltd (CBL) is the successful applicant in the mobile spectrum auction. This means that CBL is the only bidder to advance to the final pre-conditions for licencing for the country's second mobile cellular network. This is a major accomplishment for the Bahamian company and CBL has expressed that it looks forward to completing these conditions as quickly as possible.

The bid process has been extensive and thorough, including an in-depth financial and technical assessment of the company and its capabilities. Following extensive rounds, the spectrum auction was won with a CBL bid of B$62.5 million.

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Two Miami religious organizations donate to hurricane relief

Two religious organizations of Miami presented generous donations to aid in recovery efforts in the central and southern islands following the passage of Hurricane Joaquin. The donations were presented in the form of cheques by Rev. Vincent Brown, a son of the soil, on behalf of St. Matthews Missionary Baptist Church and The Baptist Minister Council of Greater Miami Vicinity Inc. to Consul General Ricardo Treco at The Bahamas Consulate General Miami office.

Consul General Treco stated: such act of kindness and love means a lot to The Bahamas and its people. The Bahamas is a blessed nation and with individuals like Rev. Brown and others, we will be able to rebuild the islands.

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Attorney General leads Bahamian delegation to REMJA X meeting in Colombia

The REMJA X meeting focused on international legal cooperation, efficiency in the administration of justice and combatting and prosecuting transnational crime. Attorney-General Allyson Maynard Gibson QC was elected 2nd Vice Chairman of the meeting.

In giving her remarks the Attorney -General thanked The Bahamas' partners in pursuit of efficiency in the administration of justice (the Commonwealth Secretariat, the Interamerican Development Bank and the USA).

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PAHO/WHO supports NEMA's relief efforts after Hurricane Joaquin

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) donates over $150,000 in relief aid, and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force continues to assist in a big way the residents impacted by the Category 4 Hurricane Joaquin, which struck the Central and Southeast Islands at the beginning of October.

During a press conference held Monday, October 19, 2015 at NEMA on Gladstone Road and NEMA's Way, several of the Emergency Support Function grouping gave an update on the status of their particular area, as it relates to the overall relief effort.

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GBHRA: A tremendous victory for human rights in The Bahamas

After nine years of false imprisonment by both Her Majesty's Prisons and the Department of Immigration, the Supreme Court of The Bahamas ordered that Jamaican Matthew Sewell be granted his freedom immediately.

In securing this tremendous victory, Sewell's attorney, GBHRA president Fred Smith, Q.C., urged the court to recognize that there is "No Guantanamo Bay" in The Bahamas, where individuals can be held in secret and outside the scope of the law. He called on the Bahamas authorities to cease taking the law into their own hands and urged them to respect the fundamental rights of each and every individual - regardless of their nationality.

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WSC launches Win Back campaign at Chamber Luncheon

This Wednesday was filled with lots of positive news for members and guests of the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers' Confederation October Luncheon held at the British Colonial Hilton. Both Glen Laville, General Manager of the Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) along with Sandra Edgecombe, Deputy General Manager and Chief Financial Officer, were the featured guests at the luncheon, and gave updates on the corporation's immense improvements in water loss reduction and customer service.

"Our goals are to simply provide The Bahamas with safe water. We looked at where we were failing and what these losses were costing us," noted Laville. "We then focused on improving our efficiency, our customer services and then to start winning back our customer base."

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Lyford Cay International School seeks to recruit Bahamian teachers

Lyford Cay International School (LCIS) is a fully accredited international day school located in western New Providence offering an educational programme that aims to inspire, challenge and transform students. LCIS is the only school in The Bahamas to offer three International Baccalaureate programmes, the PYP, MYP and DP. Upon graduation, LCIS students move on to top colleges and universities around the world, with 100% of students being accepted to their first-choice school.

One of the most important factors that lead to student success at LCIS and beyond is the school's exceptional teachers. LCIS teachers come from many different countries and backgrounds, which allows the school to foster a community that is committed to both cultural diversity and collaboration.

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Columbus Primary students learn how to make every drop count

Did you know that more people on earth have cell phones than drinking water? This was just one of the water facts that a group of 26 fifth-grade students learned at Columbus Primary when Water and Sewerage (WSC) stopped by to give them valuable lessons on water conservation.

As WSC makes significant improvements to their water services, they're also reaching out to local students in New Providence to teach them how important it is to treasure this resource. During the hour-long presentation students learned how much water we humans use in our everyday lives and small steps we can all take to reduce our water consumption, like turning the water off while brushing your teeth and turning off the faucet while washing dishes.

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Eva Hilton Primary School donates to Hurricane Joaquin relief effort

The Eva Hilton Primary School, formerly Oakes Field Primary, presented the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, with an assortment of hurricane relief supplies during a special assembly held at the campus on Friday, October 16, 2015.

The presentation was prefaced by the singing of the soul-stirring song, "Reach Out and Touch" (Somebody's hand ... make this world a better place if you can...).

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Launch of Aristo's newest project THIRTY|SIX on P.I. draws larger than expected crowd

They came. They saw. They bought. It was a glitzy, glamorous residential real estate investment launch that met with such positive response it even took developers by surprise.

The launch, held poolside at Graycliff with flowing champagne, soft music and a night lit with a million stars, was designed to introduce the public to the first video views of Aristo Development's latest foray into the luxury condominium market, THIRTY|SIX, a 38-unit ultra-chic complex on Bayview Drive, Paradise Island. Thirty percent of the residences were sold prior to the invitation-only event.

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LPIA parking study brings improvements to parking rate structure

Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) employs a world-class approach to every service it offers and parking is no exception. After undertaking an extensive study of its parking services, LPIA has restructured its parking program to deliver a better experience for its customers. The changes include the development of more helpful signage, physical enhancements to the parking facility, and the introduction of a new fee schedule that brings added value, convenience and some fee reductions for customers. The fee changes will become effective on October 30, 2015.

In the short-term parking facilities, the rate changes include the introduction of new time band of 4 - 8 hours at $16.00; a reduction of the daily short term parking lot rate from $22.00 to $20.00; and the introduction of a new 30-minute minimum parking period instead of the current one hour minimum.

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The role of Foreign Service officials highlighted at speaking tour

Foreign Service officials including Heads of Mission, Honorary Consuls and other officials enlightened high school students about the role of the Bahamas Foreign Policy during a Speaking Tour at Holy Trinity Activities Centre, Monday, October 19.

The Speaking Tour is one of the activities organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MOFA) to recognize the 2nd annual Diplomatic Week being held October 18-24 and serves as a forum to strengthen and deepen bilateral and multilateral relations with some 70 countries. The Week also provides an effective arena to extend The Bahamas' campaign for election to the United Nations' Human Rights Council and re-election to the International Maritime Organization.

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Grand Bahama American Women's Club debuts new logo to celebrate 50 years

The opening luncheon meeting of the Grand Bahama American Women's Club was held on Monday, October 19 at Ruby Swiss Restaurant. In 2016 the club will celebrate 50 years of service to the youth of this island and to recognize this achievement a special logo was designed by Paula Farrington and Joy Larsen.

The colours used are from the Bahamian flag and the red stars are for the American connection. The ladies are also shown wearing an embroidered version of the 50 year logo on their shirts.

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Cable Bahamas supports The Warrior Campaign in the fight against breast cancer

In honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Cable Bahamas has joined the fight against cancer through its support and sponsorship of The Warrior Campaign. The Warrior Campaign, in partnership with the Grand Bahama Cancer Society, was created to raise awareness and educate the community about breast cancer. Both organisations believe that all people living with cancer have the right to access the best treatment and support.

The Warrior Campaign features events that take place throughout the month of October and is implemented through volunteers such as Cable Bahamas and other cancer patient organisations around the world. All proceeds from such events are donated to the Cancer Society.

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Bahamas High Commissioner to London encourages Freeport students

His Excellency Eldred (Ed) Bethel, Bahamas High Commissioner to London, on Monday encouraged students of St. George's High School, to make the most of their education, as it is something they will need in their lives.

Mr. Bethel was on island as a part of Diplomatic Week, when Heads of Missions return to The Bahamas to give a report on their work in their assigned countries. They also speak to students, and His Excellency requested Grand Bahama, where he was born.

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Grand Bahama Island to host an investment and trade mission for Chinese Hubei Province executives

The stage is set for Grand Bahama Island to host an investment and trade mission of Hubei Province top level executives who are looking for investment and trade opportunities, with specific focus on business match-making opportunities with local Bahamian companies and entrepreneurs.

After an Advance Team visit hosted by Immerse Bahamas in early October 2015, the China Council for Promotion of International Trade [CCPIT) Sub-Council, Hubei have confirmed a trade mission to The Bahamas, as a part of their 'Entering America' initiative.

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Sawyer's Fresh Market donates to hurricane relief

Sawyer's Fresh Market, one of the leading food chains on Grand Bahama, came to the aid of Hurricane victims in the South and Central Bahamas on Friday morning. The popular supermarket donated a forty-foot container to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) loaded with food supplies.

The goods were accepted by the Minister for Grand Bahama the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville. He said that Grand Bahama has had first-hand experiences with hurricanes having several years ago seen the devastation caused by Jeanne and Francis.

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Giant yard sale/Flea Market at the Humane Society this Saturday

The ever popular No Fleas Flea Market will be held at the Humane Society of Grand Bahama this Saturday, Oct. 24th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. We will have a huge variety of household goods & linens, clothes, CDs, books, children's toys, games, toiletries, etc. and other unusual items to be had at exceptionally low prices.

In addition there will be at least ten "boot sale" vendors that will selling their own items, including arts and crafts vendors - a wonderful way to get a head start on holiday gift shopping! We can't leave out our precious pets so for this day and time only, we will be offering micro-chipping of your pets for a special low rate of only $40.

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Mary Star students urged to embrace opportunities to build a stronger country

Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, on Friday urged students of the Mary Star Catholic Academy to utilize their opportunities so as to be in a position to contribute to continued effort of building The Bahamas. The Minister's address was made during the 2nd Annual Flag Day Ceremony.

Minister Darville congratulated the administration and faculty for designing the event so as to increase awareness of the importance of the flag and boost a sense of pride and patriotism in the student body.

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CCC calling for a 25% reduction in the fixed electricity rate

By Edward Victor

The Island of Grand Bahama is meant to be a place where businesses are profitable, where people are prospering, a place where all can experience the Bahamian dream. Our economy is in need of significant traction that will propel this Island forward into a prosperous economy that all can tangibly feel.

Today we are assembled in the Chinese section of the International Bazaar, this once major tourists & local shopping center was fully occupied with tenants who operated shops, restaurants and offices. Businesses here use to employ hundreds of Bahamians and attracted thousands from around the world and locally. Today the Bazaar only has a few businesses operating and this once prosperous shopping center is in ruin and disrepair.

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All Long Island students back in school

A few days after announcing the opening of most schools on Long Island, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology is happy to announce that the students from the Mangrove Bush Primary School will return to school sooner than initially expected.

Director of Education, Mr. Lionel Sands returned to the capital on Sunday after a trip to Long Island to meet with the principals of the schools and to ensure that the schools were conducive for the return of students. The Long Island community worked assiduously to clean up schools so that students could return and have a sense of normalcy in the aftermath of the devastating Hurricane Joaquin.

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Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina makes a splash in hurricane relief fundraiser

Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina General Manager Steve Riely literally took the plunge to help reach a donation goal during a recent hurricane relief fundraiser. Upon hearing that the fundraiser was just short of its $1,000 goal, Riely promised to jump into the Big Game Club's pool fully clothed if the goal could be reached.

Guests quickly responded and Riely kept his promise. The resort then matched the total with another $1,000. The hurricane fundraiser is part of the resort's ongoing Community Goodwill program that supports individuals and organizations in need.This time the funds will be sent to help residents of San Salvador in the central Bahamas to help rebuild their homes following the damages caused by Hurricane Joaquin.

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Sandals Resorts International honoured at World Travel Awards' Caribbean & North America ceremony

Sandals Resorts International (SRI) was honored with prestigious recognition at the 22nd Annual World Travel Awards' Caribbean & The North America Ceremony, held on October 17, 2015 at Sandals Emerald Bay Golf, Tennis & Spa Resort. The Luxury Included� Resort Company collected 17 awards, demonstrating the continued success and evolution of the brand and its resorts.

In addition to this distinguished accomplishment, SRI once again received the notable recognition of Caribbean's Leading Hotel Brand, thus earning this title for 22 consecutive years. New to the winners' circle was Sandals Barbados, which was awarded Caribbean's Leading Resort after recently opening this past January.

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HE Rhoda Jackson tours S. C. Bootle High School in Abaco during Diplomatic Week

Permanent Representative of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva, Switzerland, Her Excellency Rhoda Jackson tours S. C. Bootle High School in Cooper's Town, Abaco, on Monday, October 19.

Ms. Jackson, pictured third left, is currently in The Bahamas to participate in activities commemorating the Second Annual Diplomatic Week (October 18 -24) of the Bahamas Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, which is a forum to strengthen and deepen bilateral relations with some 70 countries.

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Royal Bahamas Defense Force establishes effective presence on Crooked Island

Continuing its aggressive efforts to bring relief to the residents of the hard hit southern islands of The Bahamas in the wake of hurricane Joaquin, The Bahamas Government through the Royal Bahamas Defense Force has established an effective presence in Crooked Island in the form of a temporary work base.

Prime Minister Christie is on record as saying that the rebuilding and restoration efforts will be challenging, protracted and his government is fully committed to assisting the affected families in an expeditious manner. Clearly our marines are in for the long haul.

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Bahama Out Islands Promotion Board commits $50,000 to the recovery of Family Island resorts

The Bahama Out Islands Promotion Board (BOIPB) has committed $50,000 to the hurricane relief effort in Acklins, Crooked Island, Long Island and San Salvador, where many member properties were damaged by Hurricane Joaquin. To help facilitate the relief effort, the BOIPB is also making contributions towards the fuel costs for Tropic Ocean Airways, which has done a superlative job in transporting emergency supplies to member hotels in the devastated islands.

The BOIPB has been in vital communications with member properties. The Board is also keenly aware of the needs of the wider community, and will do everything that is feasibly possible to help our member properties contribute to the restoration of the economies of the affected southern islands.

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Island MMTS launches season 2

Music, Model and Talent Showcase of the Islands (Island MMTS) proudly announces the launch of our Season 2 auditions. We are in search of aspiring models, singers, actors, music producers and song writers. This year we are also holding auditions for dancers solo, duo or group as well as stand-up comedians.

Season 2 will launch on October 24th with our first auditions being held in Nassau, Bahamas at Mario's Bowling & Entertainment Palace beginning at 10 am sharp. As we did last year, we will host auditions in countries across the Caribbean region. Successful candidates will be invited to become delegates at our Island MMTS Conference to be held in Nassau, Bahamas from July 18th - 22nd, 2016.

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Katerina Kovatcheva's watercolor show to open at Doongalik

"Footprints in the Sand", a watercolor exhibition by Katerina Kovatcheva, will open at Doongalik on Monday, October 26 from 6-9pm and will be on display until Wednesday November 18.

Katerina Kovatcheva is a Bulgarian-born artist, graphic designer and art teacher. She is a permanent resident of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, where she has resided with her family for the past 15 years. Over the years, she has won awards and recognition from all around the world for outstanding performances in numerous artistic themes and settings.

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BNT celebrates a quarter century of wine and art

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) is getting ready to kick off the holiday season at the Retreat starting with the 25th Wine and Art Festival, which will feature great food, Bristol's fall selection of wine and live art showcases. "Bristol Wines & Spirits is once again pleased to be a major sponsor of the Bahamas National Trust Annual Wine & Art Festival," said Rusty Scates, Bristol Wines and Spirits. "Each year this festival provides us with an opportunity to support local artists while also supporting the good work of the Bahamas National Trust."

This year there will be 56 wines for tasting from the Bristol Wines and 1er Cru portfolios and, as always, there are some exciting new ones included. These wines represent most of the major wine producing regions

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'Summer Madness' coming to Freeport's Regency Theatre November 7

After an absence of many years from the Freeport Theatrical scene, that wonderful, wacky bunch, James Catalyn and Friends will return with the production of their 33rd Annual "Summer Madness" Revue, "Summer Madness 2015", at the Regency Theatre, for one performance only, on Saturday, November, 7th at 8:00 p.m. sharp. This Freeport production follows successful runs of the show in Nassau and Marsh Harbour, Abaco.

James Catalyn & Friends Theatrical Group has been a tour-de-force on the theatrical scene in The Bahamas for the past 35 years. The group is presently The Bahamas' leading troupe in ethnic Bahamian theatre and is the trailblazer in exposing theatrical performances to many of the Family Islands of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.

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'Sounds of Korea' commemorates 30th anniversary of Bahamas-Korea diplomatic relations

In observance of the 30th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and the Republic of Korea, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to The Bahamas, resident in the Dominican Republic, His Excellency OH Hangu and his wife travelled to Nassau and led commemorative activities, the height of which was a performance of "Sounds of Korea" by members of the New York Korean Performing Arts Center on Friday evening at the British Colonial Hilton.

The Ambassador and his wife sat in the front row, next to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Works and Urban Development the Hon. Philip Davis. Shown are performers on stage, and formally greeting DPM Davis.

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20th Annual International Culture Wine and Food Festival [photos]

Scenes from the popular International Culture Wine and Food Festival at the Botanical Gardens this weekend, which celebrates its 20th Anniversary this month and showcased many of the different nationalities resident in The Bahamas.

The festival is a highlight of a month of activities and events intended to increase awareness of milestones of the festival's development and individuals who made significant contributions to its success.

Click here to view photos

Grand Bahama Shipyard invites golfers to swing into action for charity

Everything is just a bit more fun when you're doing it for a good cause, and Grand Bahama Shipyard (GBSL) is set to swing for charity November 1st, when they host their 6th Annual golf tournament, and the first tournament dedicated to charity.

"In 2010 GBS began conducting an annual golf outing principally amongst the Shipyard employees to foster team building within the yard," noted Evan Baumberger, Manager, Quality Assurance Department at GB Shipyard, and one of the organisers of this year's golf tournament. "Over the next couple of years, the event grew to include our partners in the marine related industries and was a way to engage in face-to-face networking in a social environment. This year we wanted to provide a more meaningful outcome of the tournament so we have decided to donate the proceeds to charity."

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Volunteers needed for Conchman #29 - November 7

Everyone wants to be a part of fun events that happen on Grand Bahama, but not everyone wants to swim 1K, bike 25K, or run 5K in order to enjoy the Conchman triathlon on November 7. The good news is that you can have a lot of fun (maybe even more fun than the athletes) by volunteering!

Help is always needed at the water stations - yes, the athletes may actually ask you to throw water on them in addition to serving it to drink. Opportunities are available as road marshals - putting out cones or making sure no one tries to turn around early on the course for example.

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Bahamas Rugby kicks off 2015/16 season October 24

The 2015/16 rugby season starts in the traditional way in Nassau on Saturday October 24th at 3:00pm.

GAME: President's XV vs Vice-President's XV.

Also there's more information on Freeport RFC's forthcoming 50th anniversary celebrations.

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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.

Letter: An all-time low

Dear Editor,

AN ALL TIME LOW

Yesterday was indeed a sad day in more ways than one! I was aghast as I read and watched press accounts that demonstrated blatant attacks on our human and gender rights as Bahamians. We have sunk to an all time low confirming that, unless checked, our society - that breeds mediocrity, gender bias and shameless ignorance - is heading on a collision course straight into a bottomless blue hole of petty 'politricks' and gutter journalism. Meanwhile, amongst this tomfoolery, the people suffer!

I refer to two events that have developed, with far reaching consequences, as a result of the recent devastating passage of Hurricane Joaquin through these Bahamian islands:

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Rise Bahamas: A proclamation to end #SlutShaming in The #Bahamas

In light of the recent personal attacks against Candia Dames, Managing Editor of the Nassau Guardian, we, the collective of women's rights and human rights activists, vehemently condemn all who would perpetuate one of the most predictable, yet degrading tactics used by male chauvinists to diminish the worth of women, smear their character and silence them through intimidation. These tactics are acts of violence against women.

The practice of invoking a woman's private relationships and inferring that she is a "slut" as artillery against her professional credibility is rooted in the purposeful manipulation of context in order to discredit and discriminate. This malicious behaviour is made possible because of the misplaced belief that a woman's sexuality is something to be ashamed of and the false perception that a woman should know her role and stay in her lane. It is also rooted in a double standard that affirms the sexuality of men, while demeaning the sexuality of women. This double standard is one of the greatest hypocrisies of our age.

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Letter to the Editor by COB president: Building sustainable tertiary level education

By Rodney D. Smith, Ed.D
President of The College of The Bahamas

Dear Editor:

This month, October 2015, marks one year since I have been named President of The College of The Bahamas. I take this opportunity, though initiated by a recent article in one of the daily journals, to submit for publication my first Op. Ed. Article as College President. I use this as a teaching opportunity for the benefit of all; in particular, the future leaders of our country - our students.

Walter Kelly, a cartoonist, created a cartoon character, a possum named Pogo, looking out at heaps of trash as he stood on a tree limb. There was so much trash that it was impossible to cross the area. As he looked out, he said, "We have met the enemy and he is us." This phrase has been used many times since, with various adjustments.

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NASSAU EVENTS

Bahamas National Holidays - Click HERE to view the 2015 calendar.

October 23-24: "I Get Jealous Even When the Sunlight Touches You" - AJ Watson's 24-hr Art Exhibition. Click HERE for the event's Facebook page.

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 24: Bahama Health Mud Run - Yes, time to 'run dirty' with a Mud Run! Click HERE to visit the website.

October 24: Opening of R. Brent Malone: Reincarnation - a retrospective exhibition featuring more than 200 paintings, drawings, prints and sculptural pieces by legendary Bahamian artist Brent Malone.

October 24: "Summer Madness 2015" - James Catalyn & Friends for one night only! Dundas Theatre, 8pm. Call 394-7179. Box office open daily 10am-4pm.

October 26: "Footprints in the Sand" - watercolor exhibition by Katerina Kovatcheva opens at Doongalik Studios from 6-9pm. On display until November 18. Click HERE to read more.

October 27: Telethon: Rebuild Bahamas - at Atlantis and broadcast live. Click HERE to read more.

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

October 29: Artist Talk with Edrin Symonette and Sonia Farmer - The Central Bank of The Bahamas' Art Gallery, 6-8pm.

October 30-31: BNT Wine & Art Festival - at the Retreat, Village Rd.

November 7: Tru-Tru Bahamian Festival - 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. in Historic Charles Towne, on the scenic grounds of the historic 1789 Buena Vista Estate, home to John Watling's Distillery.

November 12: Art Exhibition/Concert: "Hallelujah" - with Antonius Roberts and Keri Sherman. 7pm, Hillside House Art Gallery, Cumberland Street. Tickets are $100. Includes Champagne and Hors d'oeuvres. RSVP by calling 242-322-7678 or email hillsidehousebs@gmail.com.

November 14: ACE Diabetes Expo 2015 - 10am-2pm at New Providence Community Center. www.acediabetes.org.

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's Under the Sea Celebration - 7pm at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas.

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.
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GRAND BAHAMA EVENTS

October 22 & 29: Health Is Wealth Lunch & Learn Series

Be a part of the open discussion on various Health & Wellness Topics. 1 p.m. at Garden Delite (Pelican Bay, Canal House - 4th Floor).

October 23: 3rd annual Rotary Wine & Cheese - At the Sailing Club, 7pm start. Tickets available from Rotary Club of Freeport members or at the door. Click HERE to view the poster.

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: Pink Stiletto Strut - PINKTOBER event, 6:00 am leaving from the International Bazaar. For further information call 727-0102, see ad this issue.

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: Chamber of Commerce Monthly Business Meeting - 12:30 p.m. in Delphine's Room, Canal House at Pelican Bay. Speaker Paul Miller, Managing Director, GB Power Company discussing the rate case submission. 352-8329.

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: Pink Fiesta Costume Party - PINKTOBER event, 7:00 pm at Taino Beach featuring DJ Daddy Steelie and live performances. Ticket Box Office Ash Eye Institute. For further information call 727-0102.

October 31: Thriller - A Michael Jackson tribute at the Regency Theater. Click HERE for more info.

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

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, 12, 19, 26: Health Is Wealth Lunch & Learn Series - Be a part of the open discussion on various Health & Wellness Topics. 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: Summer Madness 2015 - James Catalyn and Friends bring their wacky review to the Regency Theatre. Click HERE to read more.

November 11: Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce AGM - 12:30 p.m. in Delphine's Room, Canal House at Pelican Bay Hotel. 352-8329.

November 12: Cable Bahamas Corporate Mixer - 4 p.m. at Pelican Bay.

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: Rotaract Club of Freeport Annual Art Exhibition and Competition - at the Grand Bahama Cultural Arts Center, Sunrise Hwy. Click HERE to visit the FB event page.

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.

November 28: 4th Annual Corks & Canape's - Presented by Entwined & Mark Winder Photography, at Pelican Bay in Delphine's Room 7-9:30 p.m. to aid The Columbus House. Tickets $35.

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.
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FAMILY ISLANDS & ABACO EVENTS

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! 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.

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National telethon 'Rebuild Bahamas' set for October 27 at Atlantis

Hundreds of Bahamians and visitors are expected to come together October 27 in a high-energy, entertainment-packed six-hour national telethon to raise funds for the rebuilding and equipping of schools, re-establishing commerce and providing clean water for the islands of the southern Bahamas devastated by Hurricane Joaquin earlier this month.

The telethon, named Rebuild Bahamas, will be aired live from 6 - 11 pm on ZNS, Cable Bahamas and JCN with live feeds to radio. The broadcast will come from Atlantis where a phone bank of 18 lines is being provided by BTC.

"In this time when so many have lost everything they had and escaped the horrendous storm with only the clothes on their back, Bahamians have shown compassion in unprecedented ways, providing thousands of tons of emergency relief, food, supplies, tarps, portable stoves and more. Now, the Rotary Clubs of The Bahamas and the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers' Confederation are pooling resources to stage a telethon to raise funds for the purpose of rebuilding schools, getting businesses back up and running and ensuring there is clean, safe water," said a statement issued jointly by the Chamber and Rotary.

"It will only be when schools are open, children are back in classrooms and when businesses begin to function again that a sense of normalcy will return to these islands where those who endured the Category 4 storm hovering over them for as much as 36 hours were tested. We are fortunate that there was no loss of life, but there was a tremendous loss of the quality of life that was enjoyed before and it is our goal to rebuild, restore and revitalize though we know it may take a very long time."

Click here to read more