Real Estate
web: WWW.ELEUTHERANEWS.COM
(1-242) 422 9350
Volume 14, 08/12, August/Sept. Issue
Eleuthera, Harbour Island & Spanish Wells, The Bahamas
Your FREE copy Harbour Island, Spanish Wells, & Eleuthera - North, Central & South
` Information. We Deliver!’’ Monthly In Print & Daily Online. Since 2008 - ‘‘Eleuthera’s most reliable Source of News and
BE PREPARED
BACK COVER: Damianos Sotheby’s Int’l P 3: Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty P 5: HG Christie
Local agencies and Stakeholders assess readiness Eleutherans are reminded, as the historically busiest period of the hurricane season gets underway, to be fully prepared.
Community
- Page 2 ADVICE - 14 A Long Marriage....
30
- Page 32 -
Author releases Edu-Fun book series
- Page 26 -
Pictured: Hurricane Andrew in August of 1992 as it approached the island of Eleuthera.
ADVICE - 13 Keep Your Cool...
RBPF establishes an Election Investigation Unit - a bid to control property damage... Page 36
OPINION - 12 Architects Of Their Own...
Inside
28
7
34
18
2
www. EleutheraNews . com
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept, 2021
State of Readiness: Eleuthera Local Agencies Assess Disaster Preparedness On the afternoon of August 18th, 2021, beginning at 4pm, local government heads of departments and agencies, comprised of police, local administrators, councillors, utility representatives, telecommunications representatives, healthcare personnel, and other stakeholders, convened in a virtual meeting to assess the overall state of readiness across the five Eleuthera districts ahead of the historically most active months of the hurricane season. Members of the Eleuthera Division of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) spearheaded the virtual gathering, and began with a presentation by Inspector Newbold (based at headquarters in Governor’s Harbour) on the history of storm preparedness in Eleuthera and the role of the RBPF, before, during and after a disaster. He gave information on population data, shelter information, potential areas of concern - like those prone to flooding. Newbold also provided information on the regions of the Bahamas, as delineated by the Bahamas Met Office, highlighting that Eleuthera falls within the northwest. He also detailed some of the most notable storms to have impacted the island in recent time, and the extent of damage, beginning with hurricane Andrew in 1992 to hurricane Sandy in 2011. Briefly outlining the storm preparedness procedure in Eleuthera, Newbold informed that, “Whenever the island is threatened by a storm, a command center is activated in each district. The Island Administrator and the Officer in Charge of the RBPF/or designate would
Note: Eleuthera was also impacted directly by Hurricane Irene in 2011 and Hurricane Sandy in 2012.
have satellite phones at their disposal for communications. All official communication should be channeled through the island administrator”. Command centers in each of the districts were described as being the BTC Batelco Hill Offices in Central Eleuthera, the Administrator’s Office in Rock Sound for South Eleuthera, the Administrator’s Office in Upper Bogue for North Eleuthera mainland, the Administrator’s Office in Spanish Wells, and the Mag-
istrates Court in Harbour Island. A detailed briefing of current shelters across The Eleutheras was also given, describing the capacities, given the social distancing requirements of the pandemic, and known flood zones were also shared with participating stakeholders. RBPF subcommanders in the different districts, also updated on P42 preparations. One example was In-
2021,
Aug/Sept
Lo c a l
The Eleutheran
3
4
www. EleutheraNews . com
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept, 2021
Help for patients with Non-Communicable Diseases being explored by OEF and Emory University The One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) recently teamed up with Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing (NHWSN) at Emory University on a community research project assessing the treatment of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) on Eleuthera. Plans are now underway to provide the relevant health agencies with recommendations to create a home visitation and care system for residents of Eleuthera living with NCDs. NCDs, including Diabetes and Hypertension, are a leading cause of death in The Bahamas. On “out-islands” such as Eleuthera, healthcare is delivered primarily through Registered Nurses at government clinics. However, these facilities are faced with the mounting challenges of being understaffed and underfunded, conditions that existed before the COVID-19 pandemic. There are escalating risks that now face patients with underlying health conditions who may be hesi-
tant to attend local clinics. For this reason, Emory University and OEF are exploring avenues to provide NCD patients with in-home care and medical monitoring. The project’s outcome will be a needs assessment and strategic business plan to implement a home visitation program that would address the challenges of island residents with complex healthcare issues. “In the next few weeks, we hope to finish our data collection and our discussions with key stakeholders and come away with a report and recommendations based on the summary of our findings. We intend to submit any evidence-based recommendations that we have, obviously turning to PAHO and the World Health Organization for best practices and then connecting that to the community needs we’ve identified,” explains Dr. Corrine Abraham, Associate Professor of Nursing at Emory University.
Over the past three months, the OEF team has been pivotal in facilitating the groundwork for the study, providing administrative support and connecting researchers to community stakeholders and local healthcare professionals. Although still in the discovery and incubation phase, this study could result in patients with NCDs in Eleuthera, particularly the elderly, receiving support and care from the comfort and safety of their homes. “Emory University and OEF have worked together for nearly two decades to support nursing student cross-training programs and research on Eleuthera. This longstanding relationship between our organizations has been beneficial in creating a collaborative working partnership and the valuable exchange of information and best practices for both Emory students and our local nurses. This project is both timely and critical as we know that patients with
underlying health conditions, such as NCDs, can have a higher contraction risk and greater incidence of death from COVID-19,” cites Yolanda Pawar, Chief Communications Officer, OEF. “Health is a key focus area for OEF, and this is another way for us to assist in assessing and supporting the health-related needs of our community.” Collaborators on this project include students and professionals from the NHWSN and the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University, The Bahamas Ministry of Health, business and civic leaders, local healthcare workers, and private clinics in Eleuthera.
2021,
Aug/Sept
Lo c a l
The Eleutheran
5
6
www. EleutheraNews . com
n at i o n a l
Aug/Sept, 2021
Value Added Tax (VAT) Law Updated to Close Vacation Home Loopholes “(2B) Subject to rules as prescribed by the Comptroller, a non-Bahamian homeowner that supplies a vacation home rental and any services offered as part of that rental and does not utilize a marketplace for the supply of that rental shall be liable to pay and account for VAT on the total value of all rentals and services.” The communication stated that VAT has been payable on the supply of a vacation home rental since 2015, but further clarified that a marketplace or a non-Bahamian homeowner that does not utilize a marketplace must now charge, account for and remit VAT based on the ‘total amount charged’ for all vacation home rentals and any other services provided in connection therewith. The Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce during August 2021, released a communication received by the Department of Inland Revenue, which advised of changes to the Value Added Tax Act, 2014 (VATA), with implications for the imposition of Value Added Tax (VAT) on vacation home rentals, which came into effect as law on July 1st, 2021. The following subsections were added to section 5 of the principal Act: “(2A) A marketplace shall be liable to pay and account for VAT in respect of a vacation home rental and any services offered as part of that rental based on the total value of the rental and services and the commission earned by the marketplace.
The VATA defines a marketplace as:“marketplace” means a person or entity other than a homeowner that (a) provides a means or a platform, whether over the Internet or otherwise, through which accommodation in a vacation home rental is offered; and (b) facilitates or collects payment in respect of a vacation home rental The communication further noted that the Value Added Tax (Amendment) Act, 2019 amended Section 19 to require all persons acting as a marketplace
for a vacation home rental to be VAT registrants regardless of threshold. Violation of the provisions of the amended Act, it warned, will render a real estate agent, real estate manager, a non-Bahamian homeowner or any other person acting in a similar capacity who provides services as defined in the new subsections 2A and 2B of the Act, fully liable for all taxes arising on that transaction. That liability arises whether or not the tax was included or collected. Additionally, any such violation noted on audit or examination of your records could attract penalties that can be up to one hundred thousand dollars for each violation. The Department of Inland Revenue urged applicable clients and homeowners to ensure they are compliant in accordance with the Value Added Tax Act. For assistance and further information, the public was directed to contact Ms. Tiffany McPhee at 242-604-8111 or email: TiffanyMcphee@Bahamas. gov.bs. Alternative contacts given were Shunda Strachan at 242-604-8073 or email: ShundaStrachan@Bahamas.gov.bs and Keith Worrell at 243604-8077 or email: KeithWorrell@Bahamas.gov.bs.
2021,
Aug/Sept
Lo c a l
The Eleutheran
Bytes Bahamas Coding Camp Inspire Youth to Design Apps Harbour Island, The Bahamas - Blockchain Business School (BBS) recently held their annual event virtually where champion mentor and collaborator Ryan Austin from Harbour Island, Bahamas shared success stories of young coders and programmers with local and international attendees. Austin highlighted that a small island developing nation like The Bahamas has many people who are passionate about creating and developing games and applications. His Bytes Bahamas Camp is a nucleus for this kind of creativity. Almost 3-dozen participants from Harbour Island, North Eleuthera, New Providence and the Berry Islands learned to code and develop applications during a mix of hybrid and virtual attendance for the 2021 camp. “If free coding courses inspired students to pursue software development as a career and in turn, those students take part in the economy by building applications and companies from their living rooms, that is a fantastic feat!” said Austin. He refers to the
world’s first digital currency – the Sand Dollar that was recently created and launched by the Central Bank of The Bahamas. Although Austin teaches the students to solve problems and find answers, they too reciprocated by using Discord for their communication platform. Austin witnessed community collaboration with a high engagement and idea exchange. Lyn Narje from the Berry Islands said, “I learned more from the group than when I previously attempted coding on my own. The facilitators were easy to communicate with and, they were there to help us. I love coding, and I will 100% continue it after this camp.” Another participant, 19-year-old Jason who was home from a university in Texas, attended the camp to learn how to code since he felt that it would help his studies in engineering.
P23
7
8
www. EleutheraNews . com
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept, 2021
2021,
Aug/Sept
Lo c a l
The Eleutheran
9
10
www. EleutheraNews . com
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept, 2021
Professional Highlight: Young Eleutheran offering Mental Health Services & Promoting Mental Health
Savannah Cambridge
Ms. Savannah Cambridge a native of Hatchet Bay, Eleuthera, armed with her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of The Bahamas, having graduated in 2018 and currently enrolled in the University of the West Indies (Cave Hill Campus) Master of Science in Counseling Psychology program where she is set to graduate October 2021 - returned to Eleuthera from Barbados in March of 2020 due to the global pandemic. While in search of an internship site to complete her degree requirements, she met Mr. Stephen Thompson the CEO and founder of Thompson Counseling & Consulting (TCC) who agreed to supervise her. Savannah signed off on an offer as a Mental Health Intern at TCC and was placed at the Harbour Island Green School (HIGS) led by Mr. William Simmons. From September 2020 to June 2021 the team partnered with HIGS to offer Mental Health Support to students. The
overall goal was to provide a safe space for students to discuss, address and work through situations that were affecting them. Ms. Cambridge offered individual counseling to selective students for varying reasons, and she shared, “Although the integration of Guidance Counseling into the school is in the primary stages, a number of the students have demonstrated strong interest in counseling and showed progress.” During the school year, Ms. Cambridge also instructed Guidance and Family Life Class
across grades 1-9. These classes focused on topics related to coping with COVID, bullying, anger management, conflict resolution, self-esteem, friendliness, personal boundaries and the like. The topics selected were mainly based on issues that arose within the school setting and across the country and larger world. Beyond the regular school schedule, Ms. Cambridge offered a series of Summer Guidance Programs to students across the North Eleuthera disP31
UB alters earlier announced policy of mandated Vaccinations The University of the Bahamas (UB) on September 6th, 2021, updated their recently released COVID-19 policy, on Thursday, September 2nd, which had announced their intention to require mandatory proof of being fully vaccinated for all persons seeking to enter any university campus or facility after September 30th, 2021. UB indicated in its update, that after input from various stakeholders, this policy stance had been revised: The new release outlining the updated policy reads as follows. “Updated UB COVID-19 Policy
The University continues to work to protect the collective safety and good health of the university community whilst ensuring the continued operation of the institution. After input from various stakeholders, a revised COVID-19 Policy has been prepared and vetted. This revised policy statement supersedes the previous announcement issued 2nd September 2021. “Effective Monday, 6th September 2021, all persons entering the campuses of University of The Bahamas must show proof of being fully vaccinated OR present a negative COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test. P20
n at i o n al
Aug/Sept, 2021
11
Civil Society Bahamas Releases Public Statement on Electoral Reform dubbed ‘It is Not Too Late’ Dr. Anthony Hamilton, president of Civil Society Bahamas, the apex body of Civil Society organizations in the country, recently released a statement on electoral reform. The statement read, “Civil Society Bahamas (CSB) speaks to the nation in the spirit of the historic ethos of civil society as the conscience of a society, demonstrating the empathy and selflessness of the ‘Good Samaritan’. The signs which point to the immi-
nence of a general election should not only provoke excitement and euphoria, but also reflection and a focus on fundamentals! A general election is a trumpet call not just for potential change, but more importantly for an evaluation of stewardship on the part of every bona fide citizen, ordinary or policy contributor/implementer, every leader, current or aspirant. Evaluation based on what? Current and proposed political platforms? No. An evaluation based on our national foundation and
We’re Hiring: Wait Staff Bartender Stewards Kitchen Helper Email your resume along with a photo id and two references to Office@clubwindermere.com Come work with our vibrant energetic staff!
values enshrined in the Constitution of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas, especially its Preamble, our ‘National Bill of Rights’, our de facto, already approved though largely dormant, succinct National Plan. Proposals for electoral reform should be directly evaluated against the principles in The Preamble: • An independent Boundaries Commission as guarantor against the manipulation of political slavery or
bondage; • Accompanying enumeration of voters for transparency beyond permanent registration; • Campaign Finance Reform which honours unity rather than eroding it through financial advantage and • Consolidation of democracy by mandatory responsiveness to citizen needs through Member of Parliament Recall. We ask the nation: Are your politics
12
www. EleutheraNews . com
co m m e n ta ry
Aug/Sept, 2021
Are people in the Caribbean becoming architects of their own destruction?
By Sir Ronald Sanders (The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies at the University of London and Massey College in the University of Toronto. The views expressed are entirely his own)
The question has to be asked. Are some people in Caribbean countries becoming the architects of their own and the region’s destruction? There is clearly an organised anti-vaccination campaign throughout the region. Who is behind the campaign is unclear, but what is evident is that opposition political parties and criminal elements in Caribbean societies are taking advantage
of the anti-COVID-19 vaccination sentiment for their own narrow purposes. So, while great strides had been made in countries such as Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados and Guyana to suppress the coronavirus and curb its spread through a vigorous inoculation programme against the pandemic, that march is now being halted. The process, that was taking many Caribbean countries to ‘herd’ or ‘community’ immunity, is now being derailed. This means that the countries, particularly tourism dependent ones, that were heading toward opening their borders and recovering their economies with the obvious attendant benefits for their populations, will now be setback, if not gravely reversed. The people of Caribbean countries where this situation takes hold will have no one to blame but themselves. Vaccines now exist, and are available, for most countries to inoculate 70 per cent of their adult population. The provision by the government of the United States of Pfizer vaccines, suitable for children, to six CARICOM countries has enhanced their capacity to immunize their people against the lethal coronavirus. The six countries that are recipients of Pfizer doses so far are: Antigua and Barbuda (17,500); Bahamas (397,000); Barbados
(70,200); St Kitts-Nevis (11,700); St Vincent and the Grenadines (35,100) and Trinidad and Tobago (305,370). Other Caribbean countries will also be beneficiaries as soon as they settle requirements for storing and distributing the vaccines safely. The US donation fortifies supplies of vaccines that have been delivered through the COVAX facility, administered by the World Health and Pan American Health Organisations, as well as gifts from India, Russia and China to several countries. Caribbean countries, principally Antigua and Barbuda and Barbados, enjoyed great success in the early stage of the inoculation programme. But this initial enthusiasm by people who recognised the value of being immunised from a deadly disease, concealed the anti-vaccination movement that had already taken hold. Oddly, the success of many Caribbean governments and health authorities in suppressing the coronavirus and curbing its spread, also contributed to the propaganda that the virus would not kill, and that greater risk exists from inoculation. The antivaxxers seized upon the containment of the disease as some sort of warped evidence that it was better to contract it than to prevent it. Consequently, there has been a recent resurgence of COVID-19 infections throughout the Caribbean. It is so bad in Martinique, a French island neighbouring St Lucia and Dominica, that the authorities have locked down the country again and asked all tourists to leave. While Martinique can afford this drastic step because it is politically and administratively a part of France which gives it budgetary support, should CARICOM countries take similar action, they would immediately suffer even further economic decline. This time, economic recovery, and a return to any semblance of normal life, would be extremely prolonged with long-term unemployment and severely reduced social welfare programmes. Many economies would simply collapse. Additionally, the strain on health systems, that are only now being eased from COVID-19 cases, would intensify beyond their capacity to cope. Further, other non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, kidney failure and cancer, would take many lives as resources are diverted again to persons infected by the coronavirus. Anyone who doubts these real possibilities should check the situation in parts of the US where medical resources are much greater than any CARICOM country. For example, data from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control shows that hospital occupancy in
Horry County is at 93.3%. The report reveals that 94 out of 98 beds in intensive care units are occupied, and 44 of them are COVID-19 patients. There are also 34 patients that are currently on ventilators, and 21 of them are COVID-19 sufferers. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19 cases are rising in nearly 90 percent of jurisdictions in the US, with outbreaks in areas with low vaccination rates. Politics played a huge part in the anti-vaccination campaign in the US, started by former President Donald Trump. It was adopted by right-wing religious and political groups who have exposed their own congregations and supporters to illness and death by encouraging gatherings of unmasked persons at which they rail against vaccinations. Political parties in some CARICOM countries have taken a page from the Trump playbook. They have jumped on the anti-vaccine sentiment in the expectation that protests and marches against inoculation would galvanize a mass movement to topple governments. They have gone as far as to encourage violations of the law and confrontations with Police. In St Vincent, this emboldening of lawlessness resulted in a supporter of an opposition political party, hurling a stone at the head of 75-year-old Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves that wounded him but could have killed him. Political parties, that irresponsibly align themselves with the antivaccination campaign, particularly to violate the law and confront Police carrying out their role to protect the wider citizenry, are playing with fire. Not only are they exposing people to disease and death, they are also risking killing economies which, even if their political actions help to topple governments, will leave them with countries so ruined that the majority of their populations will never forgive them. COVID-19 remains a threat to human life as great as atrocities resulting from terrorism or war. The fact, that unlike leprosy, the disease is not obvious until it has ravaged its victims, only hides its lethal effects. All leaders of Caribbean societies, including politicians who want power, should put the well-being of their peoples and their countries first.
Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com
A DVI cE
Aug/Sept, 2021
KEEP YOUR COOL Attention homeowners: Do you have the blackout blues? If you don’t have a back-up source of power or the back-up source has failed, you probably heat up when the power goes out because of bad weather or electrical plant issues. Besides dealing with the heat, a lot of people have had to throw away perishables. Here are some tips to help keep your food from going off during a blackout. • Turn your refrigerator into an ice chest. Place gallon jugs of frozen water in the fridge for an ice chest effect. Remember, water expands when it freezes, so don’t fill the jugs all the way to the top. Leave a couple of inches for the ice to expand. Keep the jugs in the freezer when the power’s on. • Make sure you have lots of ice in your freezer. • Consider investing in a chest freezer. This will give you lots of space to hold jugs of frozen water. Chest freezers are invaluable during prolonged storm power outages. Cold air falls so the chest freezers stay cold longer than side by sides.
• •
• •
•
•
•
•
Group food together in the freezer. This helps it stay cold longer than if the contents were spread out. If you have a side by side refrigerator, move items to the bottom of the freezer side. Heat rises, so the bottom of the freezer will be the coldest. Ditto with the refrigerator side. Keep a thermometer in your freezer. This will pinpoint the temperature of the food when power is restored and you open the freezer for the first time. The freezer should be set to 0 °F. If the temperature is 40 degrees or lower, food will still be cold. Freeze any items you may not need to use, such as milk or cold cuts. Put them in the fridge a few hours before you plan to use them. A refrigerator will keep your food cold for about four hours if it is unopened, but it will stay colder for significantly longer with a couple of gallons of frozen water In it. A freezer will stay cold 24 - 48 hours if left unopened, but will stay colder for a lot longer with lots of ice and a jug of frozen water. Know where everything is in the fridge to avoid opening the door
•
•
13
for longer than necessary and allowing the cool air to escape. Instead of opening the fridge several times during a prolonged outage, place whatever you’ll need for the next few hours in an ice chest with one of the frozen jugs of water. Invest in a generator or investigate solar options. It’s a GREAT selling feature.
Staying Cool: * Open all the windows * Stay in the coolest room in the house * Wear thin, loose fitting clothes, preferably cotton * Stay hydrated! This may be obvious, but sometimes we forget just how important hydration is to body temperature. * Drink cold water, if possible, to bring your body heat down. * Don’t eat hot food or drink anything hot * Take a cold shower or bath. Stay in the water until you are cold. * Sit under a shade tree to “catch the cool” in the day and avoid sunlight. Don’t forget the insect repellant. * Draw shades if the sun is beating through the windows
By Mike Lightbourn Questions or comments? Contact me at info@cbbahamas.com Mike Lightbourn is president of Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty. * Try the old trick of wetting a cool cloth for the back of your neck. This is great for heat headaches. * Another old trick: Wet and wring out a sheet and hang it across a window. The breeze (if there is a breeze) will turn cool from the sheet’s moisture. Or spray your curtains with water for the same effect.
14
www. EleutheraNews . com
A DVICE
Is A Long Marriage A Good Marriage? Teri M. Bethel
In an age where many people are barely making it past their first year of marriage, it’s easy to see why people would celebrate the length of their marriage. After all, marriage is a journey where two histories come together. That coming together is not always as graceful as people sometimes daydream or hope, but nonetheless, many brave the hurdles as they present themselves. The question is, though, is the length of a marriage an indication of its quality? When Joanie’s husband Eric died, they had been married for 60 years, she proudly reminded her family and friends. His death seemed to have dulled her memory somewhat as most of those years were spent evading his physical and emotional abuse and avoiding interactions with the other woman of the day in his life, which unfortunately were many. There even seemed to be a sea of young teary-eyed faces strongly
resembling her husband during the funeral. Joanie wasn’t nieve—she knew Eric was a philanderer and had met at least one of his baby’s mothers when she came by to flaunt her bulging stomach. But why was it necessary to mark time? Why did she feel it was okay to remain in an abusive relationship which affected their adult children’s relationships with the opposite sex? Is quantity the same as quality? Eric was a great provider. He was celebrated on his job and was considered a man’s man. As the provider, he thought he had the right to treat his wife the way he wanted to, as long as he kept a roof over her head and food on the table. It’s what he learned from his father. He couldn’t see why his wife would be upset. He thought he was a man doing what men did. If she didn’t like it, she could leave. Joanie never did. Primarily because her mother told her not to. Her mother and her grandmother experienced the same abuse. They were raised to believe
Aug/Sept, 2021 that it was just what men did. When they were old and had sown their wild oats, they would come home to graze their marital pasture. Eric did stop the sweet-hearting, but not because he wanted to. He couldn’t afford to keep up with the high cost of maintaining the relationships, so the girls went to greener fields. Though he was home as an elderly man, his heart was never turned to his wife. Tom often told people that he and his wife had been happily married for 25 years. In the beginning, she was annoyed knowing that they had been married for closer to 40 years but realized he was telling the truth. The first 15 years of marriage were not what either of them would have considered a joyous experience. Instead of grinning and bearing it, they decided to do something about the state of their marriage. Another couple decided to call it quits after years of little to no communication. There was no fussing or fighting—theirs was just a lifeless, lackluster mismatch. Could this have been corrected? Yes, it could have. Did they want to invest the time and effort? Unlike Tom and his wife, they did not. How do you engage your spouse? Many couples are pretty good when they are pursuing or being pursued by someone of interest. They engage in conversations, look at each other in the eyes and even laugh at somewhat corny jokes. In other words, they are willing to be attentive, tolerant, and even forgiving. Quite often, they are eager to put the other person’s interest before theirs—and that’s before engagement or marriage. It’s essential to continue building your relationship with your spouse. Instead of looking over the fence in someone else’s pasture, take the time to nurture your own. Engage in conversations that will build you both up. Put aside comments that will break, demoralize or discourage your mate. Picture your spouse as one with you. Would you intentionally hurt yourself? When you do, you damage yourself and destroy your relationship one word or act at a time. If something they said or did bothered you, bring it to their attention in a gentle way at an appropriate time with a view of working through the problem. This may be when you are both calm.
A bout
the
Respecting your mate Many men believe that their wives are disrespectful and show little to no honor towards them as the head of the home. While this should never be the case and should be corrected, is that honor a two-way street? Jim hated that his wife Jessica garnered the attention of their peers. To add fuel to the fire, he couldn’t bear it when her opinion differed from his, seeing it as a mark of disrespect. He insisted that she accompanied him to work-related functions but preferred that she just looked good, or better still, make him look good. If people laughed at her jokes, Jim was annoyed and vied for the same attention. After years of listening to her husband’s complaints, Jessica became reclusive, not wanting to offend Jim or be subjected to another lecture. She realized that her husband had a massive ego she could not feed and still remain healthy despite her efforts to affirm him. Connie was married to Greg, a good-looking guy who was always the life of the party with the help of what she referred to as fermented juice. Despite being surrounded by gawking women, Greg was livid if she held a conversation with a man. After several hours of feeling abandoned by Greg, Connie decided to walk home, promising to never attend a function with her husband again—she did, and history repeated itself. Is it an insecurity that is being reflected with both couples? Are their expectations of each other justified? Quite often, spouses hold fast to their feelings without considering their partner’s perspective. Communicating without prejudging or having one-sided expectations could very well alleviate unnecessary pressure in the relationship. If you love me, you’ll let me Loving someone is not behaving selfishly. It is often sacrificial—putting the loved one before yourself. This does not mean you allow someone to abuse you. When you begin to feel agitation concerning something your spouse has said or is engaged in, it may be legitimate but what is essential in resolving the issue is how you respond to it. Someone told their spouse, “if you really loved me, you would let me do ____!” Their response
P15
A uthor :
Teri M. Bethel is a publisher and author of relationship enrichment books, Bahamian inspired romance, and adventure novels for children that share our islands’ history and culture. She is also an artist and purse making instructor. Her books and DVD tutorials are available where good books are sold in Eleuthera and New Providence and on Amazon.com. Teri and her husband have two adult sons. Website: www.inspirepublishing.org
2021,
Aug/Sept
loc a l +p lu s
Government Launches Preliminary Stage of Bidding Process on Bahamas Airports Public Private Partnership Program On September 1st, 2021, the Bahamas Government announced its intention to issue a Request for Pre-qualifications (RFpQ) for The Bahamas Airports PPP Program and invited interested private sector parties to submit their qualifications for consideration. The statement continued, “The Government is focused on the development of sustainable and resilient airport infrastructure within Grand Bahama and the Family Islands and is seeking experienced and qualified private sector partners to update, operate and improve (finance) the following portfolio of airports to drive traffic and revenue growth and further enhance quality of service: 1. Grand Bahama International Airport, Freeport, Grand Bahama 2. Leonard M. Thompson International Airport, Marsh Harbour, Abaco 3. Exuma International Airport, Great Exuma 4. North Eleuthera International Airport, Eleuthera 5. Long Island International Airport, Deadman’s Cay, Long Island 6. Great Harbour Cay Airport, Berry Islands 7. San Salvador International Airport, San Salvador” Algernon Cargill, Director of the Department of Aviation, noted,
Page. 14
Advice
was, “it’s because I love you, I will not agree with you doing ____.” Permitting or standing by and watching behavior that will destroy your mate is not loving them. When married, there may be a few, for better or worse moments, you will have to decide to walk through with your teeth gritted. What is vital is understanding you are investing in a quality marriage with the love of your life, your friend, your lover—the person you agreed to spend the rest of your life with.
“Under this PPP Program, the airport facilities are not being sold. The Government and communities of The Bahamas will retain ownership of the airports, and a private partner will be granted a concession and lease to update, operate and maintain the airports for up to 30 years.” The RFpQ documents will be made available in September 2021, on the Government of The Bahamas eProcurement and Supplier Registry Portal, accessible at https://suppliers.gov.bs. All interested parties are required to access the RFpQ documents through the portal, in order to ensure that they receive all addendum and communication from the Government with respect to the RFpQ process. All relevant details and submission instructions will be included in the RFpQ documents. Short-listed parties will be invited to participate in the Request for Proposal (RFP) stage, which is tentatively scheduled to be released in November 2021. Prospective Bidders can direct any queries via email to P3Airports@Bahamas.com, if further clarification is needed.
Sometimes you will have to sacrifice the need to be right when it is not a life or death issue. In other words…suck it up. Zip the lip and smile. It’s not the end of the world, and if they’re wrong, perhaps they will admit it one day should they realize it. So what is it you do want in your relationship? Are you into counting time as though you have been sentenced to life in prison, or do you want a quality relationship that keeps you growing deeper in love with your spouse daily? That’s the kind of marker we should be looking for, not years of suffering through pain, instead, years of your joyous gain… together.
The Eleutheran
15
16
www. EleutheraNews . com
loc al +p lu s
Aug/Sept, 2021
Former RBDF Commander Pens Trilogy Telling Lucayan Islands Story, Re-affirms Reason for Naming Waters Lucayan Sea It was over 500 years in the making and more than a decade in the dissecting – now the history of the Lucayan Islands is coming to life in a trilogy by former Royal Bahamas Defense Force Commander, Commodore Tellis A Bethel. Cdre. Bethel presented an advance copy of the first book in the series to University of The Bahamas historian, Associate Professor Christopher Curry, Ph.D. “Called The Lucayan Islands,” and subtitled The Lu-
cayan Seas: A Case for Naming the Historic Waters of The Bahamas & The Turks And Caicos Islands”, the book is Cdre. Bethel’s fifth with the remaining two of the new series set to be published in September. “The unnamed waters surrounding The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands deserve a name that befits their rich heritage,” says Bethel, who plied the more than 100,000 square miles of open ocean for decades as a naval officer and
Left: UB Historian Endorses Lucayan Sea – Dr. Christopher Curry, Associate Professor of History at the University of The Bahamas – receives the first copy of The Lucayan Islands, part 1 of a 3-part series by another historian and author Captain Tellis Bethel, former commander of the Royal Bahamas Defense Force.
now holds the title of Standards Inspector of the Security Forces. “These waters mark the spot where the trail of an ancient migration ended..., the World of Europe encountered an ancient world within the Western Hemisphere... and the modern nations of the Americas were founded. Yet, these historic waters remain nameless.” Bethel has proposed naming the waters the Lucayan Sea after the original P17
2021, Page. 16
loc a l +p lu s
Aug/Sept
Lucayan Sea
inhabitants, the Lucayans, noting that the Caribbean Sea to the south was named after the indigenous people of those island nations. The idea has garnered support from numerous environmental and civic groups as well as notable individuals, including the late Sir Durward Knowles. “The name Lucayan Sea is an authentic name that embodies the profound history, geography, and culture of the entire Lucayan Archipelago, and its inhabitants,” he says. Naming the waters of The Bahamas – now just part of a vast Atlantic Ocean – has the full support of Dr. Curry, whose studies of colonial Bahamas have helped define the era and culture that shaped a modern Bahamas. “I was honoured when Commander Bethel asked me to review his first draft of his latest history of the Lucayan Islands and happy to share insight and information,” said Dr. Curry. “I have no hesitation in fully and enthusiastically endorsing naming the waters of The Bahamas the Lucayan Sea.” Bethel said Dr. Curry’s input was invaluable. “I am so grateful to him for the time he took and for so
generously sharing his knowledge,” he said. Both scholars agree the social and financial impact of naming the waters could be beyond measure. For Bethel, he hopes being part of a Lucayan Sea branded area would encourage a return to a more peaceful Bahamas. Dr. Curry thinks it is a fitting historical tribute. Both note the branding could re-launch The Bahamas in a new light and once again, help to strengthen economic and cultural ties between the sister states of The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos. “As the birthplace of the Americas, the Lucayan Sea would be a ‘hemispheric brand’ that could diversify industry, generate employment, and enhance heritage tourism with far-reaching benefits for both our Orange and Blue Economies,” says Bethel. The book is available for Kindle and paperback formats on Amazon (The Lucayan Islands) and were available for sale in local stores in August 2021 with the remaining two books in the series available by September.
Contracts signed for additional Road Works in Eleuthera Work to improve roads in Eleuthera is underway. The Ministry of Public Works (MOPW) on August 13th, 2021, signed a contract valued at $862,999.76 with Elton and Sean Symonette, President and Vice President respectively, Quick Fix Construction Company, for repairs to Hatchet Bay roadways. The Hon. T. Desmond Bannister, Minister of Public Works; Cora BainColebrook, Permanent Secretary and Melanie Roach, Director were on hand for the ceremony held at the Ministry on University Drive. Minister Bannister acknowledged the excellent quality of work produced by the company. “The Symonettes are from Eleuthera. They have done outstanding work all over and recently completed work for the Government in Spanish Wells,” he said. “We are pleased as a Ministry that we are able to have a company from Eleuthera doing the work in Eleuthera. “We hope we are able to do this in more Family Islands with people who are from those Family Islands who are doing
P47
The Eleutheran
17
18
www. EleutheraNews . com
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept, 2021
An Eleutheran Profile: Harvey Irrington Roberts BY elizabEth bryan
Mr. Harvey Irrington Roberts INTRODUCTION: On the last day in August of 2021, Harvey Irrington Roberts, an incredibly gifted son of the soil, who spent many years away from home, but answered the strong pull to return and re-immerse himself with his roots, maximize his creative talents, and to serve both his local community and country at-large, took time out to sit and talk with The Eleutheran about his life and times, and future goals. Early Days: Harvey was born on Harbour Island - the third son - neatly tucked between two older brothers and a younger sister, to his father and mother, Thaddeus and Myrtis Roberts on August 8th in 1954. Now at 67, Mr. Roberts chuckled, thinking back on all the years passed, as he was asked to recall some of his earliest memories there on ‘Briland’. It came in snippets, “Attending the school here on Harbour Island... playing in the summertime on the harbour, and growing up on the island where life was slow, but I didn’t know that until I got older... Playing rounders in the street, lots of friends... We enjoyed the Christmas and Eastertime. There were lots of tourists then on the island. After Easter, there were hardly any until Thanksgiving in November, so we had the island to ourselves between November and April as a playground... The different seasons in the year when we would go seagraping, cocoplums, picking coconuts, mangoes - and it was just a joy to be on the island in those days.” He continued, “I vaguely remember my experiences at the Harbour Island All Age School. I must have gone when I was five/six. We had principals then, and one or two teachers. It was a one building school with a partition down the middle. The youngsters were at the northern end and the elder children on the southern end of the school - and we were broken up into quarters - little groupings. There were two schools on the island - the public school, and we had a Catholic school called St. Benedicts. I attended the public school... I do recall some of the head teachers, a Mr. Wile - an English teacher who always wore short pants with golf socks, very typically English. He was followed by a Mr. Major, from Long Island. Then Mr. Patrick Bethel from Abaco. I remember Mr. Bethel
very well. For some reason I always remember being taught by the principal. It was during his time that I passed the exam for Queen’s College. I was a small child, and they said I was mannerly, so that must have helped in school. My parents were very strict, especially Daddy...disciplined. Thinking about it today, gosh, I still remember him being very strict.” Budding Talent: “While in the school,” shared Harvey as he reminisced, “they discovered that I could draw - my mom realized. I just remember starting to draw. Different tourists came to the island, and I remember a Mr. Allen Earnest who came every winter. He used to paint and draw on the side of the street, and I would follow him around and watch him paint and draw. He was a very good illustrator. And I said to myself, ‘I can do that - I can draw like that’. So, I went home and I started to draw. I wasn’t allowed to draw on the wall, but I used to draw on cardboard, paper when I found it. Then I started to use crayons, and I remember mixing the crayons right on the paper for different colors - probably caught on to it watching Mr. Earnest paint. I couldn’t afford paints at the time. But I do remember my dad buying me my first paints and brush set from the local convenience store, when he realized that I liked to paint. A local lady, Ms. Vivian saw me draw, and later a winter resident she worked for brought me back a big box of water colour paints and paper as a Christmas present, and I was in glory! I started to draw scenes from around the island, as I had seen Mr. Earnest doing.” Hurricane Betsy in 1963, said Harvey, was unforgettable. “I was nine years old, and remember it coming through the island. We were hunkered down in my parents’ house... I remember some neighbours coming in because their house was destroyed. I recall the Anglican church losing its roof... and one thing I do remember is the island was like a garden of Eden afterwards - All the trees had been blown over, so all the fruits were all over streets and the yards. So, us as children, we had a great time picking up all the fruit. “My Mom worked at the Pink Sands Hotel, as the Maître D’ at the time, and she mentioned my growing collection of drawings to Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm, the owners. I was about ten then, and Mrs. Malcolm arranged for an exhibition of my paintings at the hotel. It was my very first exhibition, and I sold every painting that I had. It was incredible, there were about 20 or 30, and they were hung along a clothesline in the dining room of the hotel, and the tourists just picked them up and bought them. It was at Christmas time 1964, a Sunday, right after church. My Mom, Dad and I were invited to dinner at Pink Sands during the exhibition. One of the persons who were there was a television/movie star at the time, called Raymond Burr - he played Perry Mason. He bought almost all of my paintings.” “After returning home, I very surprised when he sent back for me several water colour books, boxes of water colours and lots of brushes. He bought lots of painting supplies for me, to encourage me to paint. The rest is history. I just went to town with those paints. I painted and painted and painted, using up all the white mixing, and the blue for the Harbour Island skies - so I would tell my dad, that I needed more paint, because I had used it up. I remember one Saturday - my dad used to work in construction, and after collecting his check from his boss, Earl
Johnson at the Pigly Wigly store, he came back with some paints - and for me that was great - I was able to continue painting,” smiled Harvey at the memories. “I had another exhibition that following Easter (1965), just before I went to Queen’s College exhibit number two - and it did very well. From that time, the Malcolm’s continued to encourage me to paint, and I had an exhibition there every year during Christmas - it became a tradition. I also had exhibitions right under the Fig Tree in Briland. Mrs. Malcolm also commissioned me, at age 11, to paint an album cover for the Percentie Brothers - they were the local calypso band. They were recording an album at the time. That was my very first commission! I remember then with those first earnings opening up my first bank account, at the Royal Bank, here on Harbour Island. My Mom kept my bank book - I remember that,” he smiled. School Days: “The following year, I left, and that was it. I left to go to Queen’s College in Nassau. Back in those days, the government sponsored children from the Out Islands who passed the common entrance examination to go to a school in Nassau of their choice, and my parents chose Queen’s College for me, because we were Methodists. So, I went there in 1965 at age 11,” said Harvey. “When I first went to Queen’s College, I lived with my cousin, Wilma Thompson-Curry. She became a permanent secretary in government, but at the time, she was a teacher at one of the public schools in New Providence. She was very good, and she treated me very well. She is also the mother of Fayne Thompson, the attorney. I was later scheduled to go into the Queen’s College hostel or dormitory - because it was a boarding school with living accommodations where all the Out Island students stayed. There was no space for me when I first arrived, so I moved in later once space became available. At the hostel there were 48 students - 24 boys and 24 girls. The boys were downstairs and the girls lived upstairs at ‘the dorms’. That was an experience I would love to do again. We had students from Inagua to Abaco, so I got to know many students from other islands. We had quite a large group from Eleuthera, with students from Savannah Sound, Rock Sound, and Governor’s Harbour. There was Joanne Griffin-Beehag, and another student who treated me like her little brother, Emily Petty. She took me under her wing, as I was very small, and she protected me. I also remember Lloyd and Terry Johnson were there, also the Rolle girls from Governor’s, Lorraine and Caroline. There were the Sands boys from Savannah Sound, and many other from Eleuthera. My time at Queen’s College was a great experience,” he recalled smiling. “I spent five beautiful years there. Of course, I continued to draw and paint while there - that was my thing. From form 1 to form 5, my home teacher was the art teacher, which was great. I was able during breaks, like lunchtime, to slip back into the room to draw and paint - he encouraged me. Several of my teachers actually. There was Mr. Robert Brougham, Mr. Nelson, and Mr. Tom Hill. Tom Hill was a very special person - he was the art teacher, my homeroom teacher and when I graduated from Queen’s College in 1971, it was he P19 that organized for me to go to England to further my education - espe-
2021,
Aug/Sept
Page. 18
Profile
cially my art. I had applied to several colleges in the US, and one in Canada - but Mr. Hill knew a school where he used to teach, and knew the principal there. So, he arranged in a matter of two or three weeks for me to go to England. It happened at breakneck speed. At the time I had never been out of The Bahamas. My passport was hastily arranged, with the help of the member of parliament at the time, Mr. Norman Solomon. An unbeknown to me, my mother had saved the money from all of my exhibitions on my bank account. It was able to pay for my schooling in England,” said Harvey, seeming still a little incredulous recalling the surprise back then. A Far Away Place: On September 24th, 1971, at 17 years old, Harvey left his home in the Bahamas for College in England. Traveling by air with the British Overseas Airways Corporation, the plane seemed as big as Harbour Island at the time, he shared. Smiling as he thought back to arriving in London, a city of millions - compared to his home of less than 2,000 people, Harvey described carefully following the directions given to him, before safely arriving at his destination of Hastings, where he met the principal. While registering at the school, he would be further blessed by meeting a lady there while at the office, by the name of Maura who offered accommodations to foreign students. Harvey called it divine intervention, as he would board with her, during the next three years while he studied at Hastings College of Further Education. Originally signed up to complete the Fine Arts course - it was full when he arrived, so alternatively he was entered into a Graphic Design course, supposedly in the interim, until the Fine Arts schedule became available. However, the switch never happened. Harvey so enjoyed the elements of the new course, where he was actually introduced to photography, picking up a camera for the first time - the rest was history. He would complete his full three years study in Graphic Design. “My ability to paint, which God had given me as a natural talent was never messed with by any art teacher,” laughed Harvey. Such a distance away, he would come home just once before completing his tertiary studies, and it was in 1973, to celebrate the Independence of his new country. Harvey recalled being at Fort Charlotte, seated at the western bank, as he watched the historic proceedings, and the country’s new leaders in person for the first time. Seeing all of the symbols for the first time, like the new flag, and hearing the national anthem. “When I left the Bahamas, it was a British colony, and when I came back it was a new country.” Back in England, now 20 years of age, Harvey graduated from Hastings College in 1974. He had gotten involved with a young lady from Guyana, Rosemary Ann, during college, who was studying nursing, and after graduation, he decided to stay in England for a year or two to get some work experience, and applied for several jobs in London as well as one in Hastings, at a new local weekly newspaper that had been born during his final year in college called the Hastings and St. Leonard’s News. He was offered a position in the graphic department, nearly right away. He started fresh out of college on July 10th in 1974, on the first-year anniversary of the Bahamas’ Independence. When
Lo c a l he began with the paper, there were six people in the operation, everyone responsible for a different aspect of the paper, said Harvey, and he described the work atmosphere as being like a family. The paper, he said, grew quickly into a huge operation - from a little office space in a town center to a purpose-built newspaper plant. One year at the paper in Hastings, became fifteen years - and Harvey would spend nearly 20 years in England, becoming very much a part of the English scene. During that time, Harvey and Rosemary Ann were married in 1977, and had a son, Howard. Harvey also had a daughter, Summer LeAnn, while in the UK. He was still painting - English scenes around Hastings and East Sussex, and also did some exhibitions there and got to know the art scene and all the galleries, but his love of photography really flourished, he said, during those years. He didn’t travel back home very often while in England, seeing most Bahamians back then only when he attended special events at the Bahamian Consulate. In 1986, during a vacation sabbatical, where he got the opportunity to spend several weeks back home, Harvey created a book about Harbour Island, showcasing scenes of home, and incorporated his artwork into the publication while, he said, taking a plethora of photographs around the island. During his three weeks at home, the realization hit him that he missed the Bahamas, and that he had become detached from his family and Briland connections. A year later, back in England, on September 6th, 1987, he got a call saying that his mom had died. Returning home again for the funeral, it was during this experience, which he said he would never want to go through again, he promised himself that he would come home. His Bahamianism, as he described it, had gotten very thin - and he realized that he had forgotten his roots. Homecoming: After going back to England, he began to work on returning home, and was successful in landing a job at the Nassau Tribune in late 1989. He returned to the Bahamas with his wife, while his son continued in school in England. However, Rosemary Ann eventually returned to England with their son, and the couple later became estranged. Harvey would spend just over a year at the Tribune, painting every evening, and exhibiting a full body of his works during that year. However, the traditional office culture at The Tribune didn’t sit well with him, and about a year into his time there, he got a call from Ivan Johnson, who was starting a new tabloid styled newspaper, called The Punch. Harvey took up the offer, and worked with Ivan there for the next six years. The Punch was similar in format, explained Harvey, to the paper he was with in England, which helped him to settle in quickly. While in Nassau, after his wife returned to England, he continued to paint even more, and would visit Harbour Island on weekends. He was also invited to showcase his works at a group exhibit at the Nassau Beach Hotel, in the company of other well-known Bahamian talents like, Eddie Minnis, Brent Malone, Antonius Roberts and Alton Lowe. Community Life: In 1995, Harvey’s father passed away, and during the same year, Prime Minister at the time, Hubert Ingraham initiated the beginning of Local Government on Family Islands throughout the country. “When it was announced, I thought it would be a great opportunity to go home and contribute to my hometown community,” shared
The Eleutheran
19
Harvey. After parting with his wife, he had also gotten involved with a Bahamian girl, back home in Harbour Island. So, in June of 1996, he ran for seat in Local Government, and won, becoming a town committee member in the first council in Harbour Island, and a council member for the North Eleuthera District. During his first term serving as a councilor, he and his colleagues petitioned the government to set up a separate district council for Harbour Island, to take care of their own affairs, and in 1999, during the second local government elections, Harbour Island’s own district council came into being. Harvey once again won his seat, and was elected as the first Chief Councilor for Harbour Island. He had observed some of the workings of local government functions while in England, said he fully enjoyed serving his home community - fully prescribing to the vision of bringing government closer to the people. Still painting and drawing, his November exhibitions under the Fig Tree in Harbour Island, became a new tradition. He was also nominated for the Cacique Award in the late 90’s, while in his second term of local government. That year he was in stellar company, as the three finalists were himself, Eddie Minnis and Alton Lowe. Minnis walked away with it that year, said Harvey with a smile, acknowledging his friends and colleagues’ masterful talents. In Service: He ran for a third time in Harbour Island’s local government in 2002, again won and continued to serve. He got married to his Bahamian Harbour Island girl in 2005, Mrs. Georgina WhitfieldRoberts, and also became an adopted father to her four children, Justin, Fredericka, Loria and Donna. He ran for the 4th time in local government in 2007 as a councilor, however, shortly after elections, he was invited to be a Family Island Administrator, with the opportunity to serve all over the Bahamas. Harvey’s time as a Family Island Administrator began in Grand Bahama in February of 2007. He traveled there with his wife Georgina, where he completed his 18-month understudy in Freeport. The couple then moved to Mayaguana, which was his first posting as an Administrator. Notably he shared, Mayaguana was a ‘cash district’ where administrators received a cash budget to take care of their responsibilities on island. “You had to account for every dollar sent to you. I took that very seriously,” he said. They were in Mayaguana for four years, before moving to take up a new posting in San Salvador and Rum Cay in 2012. He said the next two years spent there were very enjoyable. They would then move to Acklins in 2014 for another two years until 2016, when he got the call to report to East Grand Bahama. During this time, as an administrator, Harvey said he did not do a lot of painting, but he did get in a lot of photography. While in East Grand Bahama, his area of responsibility ranged from Smith’s Point to Sweeting’s Cay. Two years later, in 2018, with just a year to go before his time for retirement he was called by the Director of Local Government and told to report to Mayaguana. Harvey, who was ready to head home, asked to serve his remaining time in Eleuthera. However, after being told that he had no option, he said he explained his position to his director and resigned a year early - with a heavy heart. So, in April of 2018, he and his wife returned to Harbour Island, where they continue to reside. Life After: Since his retirement in 2018, Harvey said he has painted ‘like a maniac’. “I was turning them out like a machine - I must have turned out 100 or more paintings.” He also became more involved in his church, Wesley Methodist in Harbour Island, and is currently involved in a course to become a Lay Preacher. Harvey is also a member of the Lodge, as well the volunteer fire brigade on the island. He expressed his intention to run in the next set of Local Government elections when they are called, as he sees a number initiatives in his hometown, that he would like to become an active part of solving the issues - like fire protection and prevention, as well as restoration and maintenance of historical architectural sites within his community. With his time remaining in life, Harvey said that he would like to continue to contribute to his community and stay involved through local government, and would like to also give of his time to the church. His life in art, he said, has been a roller coaster, but an experience he would do all over again - from his first exhibition at age ten and a half to his other exhibitions in England, New Providence, and the US. Lovers of art can still find Harvey exhibiting his works every Friday in Harbour Island at the Ministry of Tourism’s Farmer’s Market, during the tourist season.
20 www. EleutheraNews . com
Page. 10
n at i o n a l
Aug/Sept, 2021
UB’s Covid-19 Policy
The Rapid Antigen Test result must be no older than five (5) days at the time of presentation. “For employees, residential students, coaches who must work on campus and students who must come on campus for course related activities during remote operations, but who are not fully vaccinated, University of The Bahamas will cover the cost of Rapid Antigen Tests until further notice, provided that proof of affiliation with UB is presented at the test site. Test sites include Eden Well locations, on and off campus. Testing stations by Doctors Hospital and Eden Well will be operational on Mondays 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and only Eden Well on Thursdays 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in Room #6 of the Culinary Arts and Tourism Studies (CATS) classroom block at the Oakes Field Campus; and at Cowpen Road (near Island Luck): https://goo.gl/maps/z9vJJtcDbnQHS9YY7; Cable Beach (Located near Island Luck): https://goo.gl/maps/ DXA7NdMFN57g5Ccm8; Fox Hill (Located near Island Luck): https:// goo.gl/maps/339cFftDnnPcmW37A; and Old Fort Bay Town Center (within the shopping plaza): https:// goo.gl/maps/enwM6zy6mUy58Hj6A. “In Grand Bahama, UB-North faculty, students and staff may be tested by Doctors Hospital whose site is at the Geneva Wellness Centre, located at #3 East Beach Drive, Freeport, Grand Bahama. Their hours of operation are
Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on weekends. “We thank you for your continued adherence to all COVID-19 safety protocols and invite your continued input as we navigate this pandemic together. Please know that temperatures will be checked at the entrance, masks must be worn at all times, social distancing must be adhered to, and all are reminded to wash or sanitize hands frequently.” In it’s earlier release, UB also announced that the university would move to predominantly remote teaching and learning as well as remote operations, effective, Thursday, September 2nd, 2021. The statement continued, “The only exceptions to the virtual teaching and learning mode, will be courses that require face-to-face components and athletic training. These must occur in strict compliance with all COVID-19 protocols. “At all campuses and facilities, faculty and staff are to work remotely, where possible, with the exception of essential workers (the Physical Plant department, University Police and Campus Security department and the Office of Information Technology). Other employees who must work on campus must do so for limited periods and/or in shifts only, following all COVID-19 measures, and limiting physical contact with others.” According to the university the announced remote operations and revised COVID-19 policies, man-
dated by The University of The Bahamas Board of Trustees, was to remain compliant with national emergency health regulations and protect the health and welfare of the University community. The statement from UB’s Office of University Relations, added, “Our COVID-19 response policies and protocols are being continually updated and must be strictly enforced.”
5,000 students - the university’s approximate enrollment, in addition to all faculty, staff and the general public, are affected by UB’s new mandates and revised COVID-19 policies, at campuses and centres on three islands, including New Providence, Grand Bahama, and San Salvador. UB directed people with questions or concerns to the email: UBcovid19@ub.edu.bs.
2021,
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept
The Eleutheran
21
Changes Announced for Garbage Collection Services in Governor’s Harbour & Palmetto Point The fee structure was outlined as follows: • • • • •
The Administrator’s Office in the Central Eleuthera District released a notice on August 10th, informing the public that in a recent sitting of the Central Eleuthera District Council, regarding waste management services for the settlements of Governor’s Harbour and Palmetto Point, an agreement had been made between Paul Simmons Waste Management Services and the township
chairmen for the removal of trash for those two townships to include all government and residential trash only. As of Monday, August 9th, 2021, the notice continued, “All business owners - small, medium or large and all rental properties are considered private. Through this amendment, all business and private rentals will now be assessed a fee for trash removal.”
• •
Small sized businesses: $100 $150 per month Medium sized businesses: $200 $300 per month Large sized businesses: $350 $600 per month The notice once again highlighted, “There will be NO FEE for residential and government trash pickup.” Trash collection days in the Governor’s Harbour and Palmetto Point townships were set for Mondays and Thursdays.
The notice continued, “We also request that you utilize trash bags that are
tied and properly secured when disposing of your trash. Payments for trash removal services are to be made on the 28th of each month for the incoming month. Payments not made by the end of the month will result in trash not being collected for the following month. Payments may be made online or checks may be made payable to Paul Simmons Waste Man-
agement Services. “Business and rental property owners will be required to sign an annual contract expressing agreement to the terms. “For questions or further information, please contact your respective township chairman - Mr. Demetrius Johnson (Governor’s Harbour) or Mr. Tyrone Knowles (Palmetto Point).”
22 www. EleutheraNews . com
Edible Eleuthera
-
By: The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve (LLNPP) Sapodilla The Sapodilla tree grows as a medium to large tree up to 65 feet in height with a trunk measuring over 3 feet in diameter. Sapodilla (Common Names: Dilly, Sapodilla; Scientific Name: Manilkara zapota; Family: Sapotaceae) is not native to the Lucayan Archipelago but occurs on all island groupings, having originated in Central America. It is also now dispersed throughout Florida and the Caribbean as well as both old and new world tropic and subtropics.
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept, 2021
The Sapodilla The sapodilla is so popular it gained its own fame by way of a catchy Bahamian song, aptly titled “Sweet, Sweet Sapodilly” and many children have at some point climbed a sapodilla tree to collect the ripe fruits. And although not used medicinally in the Lucayan Archipelago the dilly fruits and the sap is used to make chewing gum. The wood has been used for carpentry.
All parts of the plant produce a milky sap or latex when cut or crushed. The tree flowers off and on all year, bearing fruit mainly in spring and summer. The fruit is a berry, and the peel or skin is light brown and scaly at maturity (similar to that of a kiwi fruit). The flesh is sweet and edible and contains several shiny black seeds. Bahamians traditionally refer to it as “dilly” or “sap-o-dilly”. Of course, its best enjoyed straight from the tree. A ripe fruit should be soft to the touch which allows the flesh to be split by hand. No spoons required – all you need are your teeth and efficiency at spitting out the seeds. Another way to enjoy this delectable fruit is as an ice cream – any standard ice cream recipe works although the richer the ingredients, the richer the ice cream.
Flower of the sapodilla
Cross-section of ripe fruit with seed
Immature fruit
2021,
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept
Several of the students who participated in the Harbour Island Bytes Bahamas Coding Camp are shown with the Director, Ryan Austin. In the front row (L-R) are Rodgeno Albury, Jarvis Thompson, Stansen Cooper, Ashton Brave and Ryan Austin. In the back row (L-R) are Alexia Oliver, Caleb Pedican Jr., Phelton PetitFrere and Octavian Oliver. Photo provided by Bytes Bahamas.
Page. 7
Sixteen-year-old Rodgeno Albury won a laptop computer donated by HAP – Harness All Possibilities - for his Jeopardy-like quiz about Bitcoin that was built through coding during the summer camp by Bytes Bahamas. Photo provided by Bytes Bahamas.
bytes
Siblings Jayson and Genesis Thompson teamed up to design a short application that focused on the fishing industry. Jayson wrote the code while Genesis selected images and assisted with the design. Their educational tool can be viewed at https://bit.ly/3k5TJlg. The winning entry came from 16-year-old Rodgeno Albury of Harbour Island who developed a Jeopardy-like quiz about Bitcoin, and this earned him a laptop donated by HAP – Harness All Possibilities. His game application can be viewed at https:// bit.ly/2VVi7OP. Coding involves creative thinking, strategy, math, writing, designing, learning from mistakes and working towards a final application or product. Albury reminds us through a quote by Winston Churchill: “Success is not final. Failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.” Ryan Austin started his non-profit Bytes Bahamas in 2018 after he left his profession to focus on a venture with his wife however, he wanted to give back to the community. The following year, he sent three students to Nassau to participate in an inaugural 3-day Youth Conference and Hackathon, now known as Blockchain Business School, a virtual future of work learning experience fueled by HAP. The students were ecstatic to learn about AI, Blockchain and coding, and participate in teams. For the past two years, Bytes Bahamas has signed up students to take workshops and certifications by ConsenSys Academy and virtual confer-
The Eleutheran
23
ences through the Blockchain Business School. Founder Rhonda McDeigan-Eldridge of BBS has been speaking about the future of work for the past 5 years. Together with Austin, they want to make coding easier for youth to access and to learn blockchain to improve their future. Collaboration is important for Kimberly King-Burns of Briland Modem Fund, an avid supporter of Bytes Bahamas. “Through technology and networking, the participants have tapped into a coding community that was once virtually isolated and can now follow the latest trends and develop pragmatic useful applications,” said King-Burns. Visiting developer Adam Kelly who grew up on Briland and works in Silicon Valley shared his experience with the learners while on holiday. Other supporters of the Bytes Bahamas Camp are COCOA Coffee House, the Harbour Island Library, private donors, and a partnership with the Haynes Library in Governors Harbour for meeting space. Bytes Bahamas and the Briland Modem Fund are now shifting their focus to work with schools on Harbour Island to help teachers deliver a coding curriculum. More information about the Camp can be found at www.bytesbahamas.com. More information on the Blockchain Business School and their recent speakers’ event can be found at www.242BBS.com.
26 www. EleutheraNews . com
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept, 2021
Conservation Corner: Keeping the crawfish fishery
sustainable
A new crawfishing season has arrived, marking an important time in the life of our island. The Bahamas crawfish industry was certified as a sustainable fishery in 2018 by the Marine Stewardship Council, the only lobster fishery in the region to have this seal of approval. We should be proud of this achievement that came from years of hard work by government officials, the fisheries sector and non-proft organisations all working together. Sustainable certification allows the Bahamas to get a premium price on its product overseas and ensure that demand stays strong, even in the face of disruptions like the coronavirus pandemic. It also ensures that there will always be crawfish to support fishers into the future, by setting up good management practices and keeping an eye on the health of the crawfish population. Another key aspect of sustainable fisheries is making sure that they don’t degrade the environment. In all three of these areas, The Bahamas has committed to improvement, so there is still plenty of work to do. The Cape Eleuthera Institute at The Island School, is helping in these efforts by conducting research to better understand how the fishery interacts with the wider ecosystem. Earlier in July, Dr Nick Higgs (a Spanish Wells native), presented some preliminary findings to the fisheries audit committee that will be responsible for re-certifying the fishery in 3 years time. These included documenting how seagrass is impacted by the lobster condos and looking at how crawfish heads thrown overboard by the thousands impact predator behaviour. All of
this information helps satisfy the auditors that The Bahamas is responsibly managing its fisheries. In many ways the Bahamian fishery is unusual, in that most crawfish are caught by hand by divers, so that means that there is very little bycatch (unwanted catch). There are some fishers that use lobster pots that might catch unwanted animals, but the biggest method of fishing involves using artificial shelters called condos, casitas or traps by different people. These shelters do not trap any animals, which are free to come and go. Instead they act as artificial reefs so can provide shelter to many other types of animals as well. Many people assume that fisheries are bad for the environment but the picture is more complex. There are often tradeoffs between impacts and benefits to different species. Understanding the impacts and benefits of crawfish ‘condos’ is a central part of the sustainable fisheries program at the Cape Eleuthera Institute. We are also testing out a new condo design that is
made from a single piece of moulded aluminium, rather than the traditional wood and aluminium used previously. Local fishers have already started using them and we are doing trials to understand how they function, their longevity and catch rates. Ultimately this will feed into fisheries management. As well as research on the industrial fisheries we are looking at the role that sustainable fisheries can play in providing food for local communities. Crawfish should be food not just a commodity. We have started a small-scale, community subsistence fishery programme, that is looking
at the feasibility of providing food for our community from the ocean in a sustainable way. A recent study showed that fishing communities around the world are often undernourished because they sell their catch and then buy lower quality, less nutritious food. Thankfully, many Bahamians still enjoy seafood as a regular part of their diet. Our work is to make sure this continues to be the case for future generations of Bahamians. Dr. Nick Higgs Director, Cape Eleuthera Institute
2021,
Aug/Sept
n e a r by
The Eleutheran
27
Caricom’s Heads of Governments meet in Special Session Statement: The Bureau of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) met in Special Session on Friday, August 27th, 2021 to discuss the political and humanitarian situation in Haiti. The meeting was presided over by the Chair of Conference the Honourable Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda and included the other two members of the Bureau: Belize, represented by Prime Minister the Honourable John Briceño, and Trinidad and Tobago represented by Senator the Honourable Dr. Amery Browne, Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs. The Prime Minister of Barbados, the Honourable Mia Mottley, the Prime Minister of Jamaica, the Honourable Andrew Holness, the Premier of Montserrat, the Honourable Joseph Farrell as well as the Foreign Ministers of Guyana and Suriname also attended. The Prime Minister of Haiti, the Honourable Ariel Henry provided an update on the situation in Haiti. Prime Minister Henry stated that his government was dealing with three priorities simultaneously. These were relief and reconstruction following the earthquake, the need for credible and transparent elections, as well as delivering justice through the complex investigation into the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse. Prime Minister Henry outlined the effects of the aftermath of the earthquake which struck on August 14th, and the passage of Tropical Storm Grace which affected the entire southern peninsula of the country on August 16th. He pointed out that the needs would be clearer after the Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) was com-
Above: The Bureau of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) met in Special Session on Friday, Aug. 27th, 2021. pleted in five weeks. Prime Minister Henry commended CARICOM for its early moral and material support. The Bureau was of the view that the Community must be at the forefront of ensuring that its Member State Haiti has a fresh start as it recovers from the extensive devastation of the earthquake of 14 August and from the passage of tropical storm Grace, a situation compounded by the assassination of President Moïse. The Bureau noted that the crisis presented a good opportunity to rebuild Haiti and offered the assistance of the Community in those areas in which Member States had expertise such as the elections process, judicial and investigative support for the inquiry into the death of Presi-
Elite
dent Moïse and the restoration of the democratic institutions. Support was also offered with respect to curbing the crime and violence in Haiti. A number of Member States pledged financial donations to address the immediate needs of the country and there was agreement on the need for a sustained development effort over the long term to give Haiti a fresh start. The need for a robust and well-coordinated humanitarian response and vaccination effort was also highlighted. The Bureau assured the Haitian Prime Minister of the Community’s unstinting support for Haiti as it sought to emerge from its present challenges.
Customs Brokers *DHL Courier *Brokerage *Trucking; Tel: 332-3066
Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera
28 www. EleutheraNews . com
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept, 2021
‘Celebrating Excellence’ - Madison Wilson -
Valedictorian - Harbour Island All Age School Eleuthera’s Class of 2021 high school graduates as they entered their final year, saw their first school term continue as it had ended in June of 2020 on the Bahamas’ virtual instruction platform as the pandemic persisted through September and October of 2020 resulting in an all-virtual first term, and only returned to a hybrid of virtual and face-to-face classroom instruction during February of 2021. Despite the challenges, students who persisted, and focused on their goals were still able to overcome and celebrate a successful 12th grade year. Rising to the top amongst their peers this year, were the stand-out achievers at each of the schools, who were awarded as Valedictorians, having maintained the highest academic result in their respective classes. This month in our ‘Celebrating Our Valedictorians’ series, we highlight Harbour Island All Age School’s, Madison Wilson, who in addition to maintaining the top academic position in her class and a spot on the honour roll for six successive years, as well as the principal’s list for four successive years, also stayed well-rounded and active as treasurer in the Mentorship club, a member of the RBDF Rangers program, and member of the Leadership club. Madison demonstrated her leadership skills as first a Prefect, and then as Deputy Head Girl. Numerous awards and accolades were also racked up during her senior high years, including the Bahamas Honours Society, Principal’s Award, Ministry of Youth Senior Academic Award, a Romania Townhouse Scholarship, RBDF Rangers Top Academic Award, Top of the Class Award, as well as the Top BGCSE results at HIAAS for 2020-2021. When asked to share a bit about her experience during this final year, Madison highlighted that remaining focused was key, saying, “It has been very challenging diverting from virtual to face to face and vice versa.
Virtual was stressful because the assignments were given one right after the other without any recess time. When I finally got settled with going virtual, they took us back face to face. “Trying to remain focused was my main goal. I did this by keeping my mind set on the positive and drowning out the negative. When things got stressful, I took it one step at a time. I kept my goals top priority and that managed to keep me going.” Reflecting back on her junior high and senior high school experience, she shared, “Junior high and senior high years have taught me many great things I will never forget, and the assistance of my teachers played a major role in my time in high school. My classmates always pushed each other in tough times and kept each other encouraged. I will take this lesson with me - to always challenge myself but remember to have fun.” The next step in Madison’s journey is the move into tertiary education. Sharing a bit about why she had chosen her field of study, she described, “Now that high school is completed, I will go on to further my education in pursuing a degree in Business Finance. My interest in mathematics has inspired my interest in banking. I enjoy assisting and helping others save and budget their money. My love for finance and humble competence in this area has led me to choose a career path in the field of finance management.” Asked about where she hoped to be after her undergraduate program was completed, Madison confidently shared, “In the next four years I see myself as a top tier Business woman excelling. I plan to also pursue a Master’s degree in the career field that I have chosen.” She also shared some invaluable advice for Eleuthera students still in high school, saying, “My main point of advice would be to always avoid pro-
Above: Madison Wilson, HIAAS Valedictorian.
crastination. If you have something to do, never put it off for tomorrow. Always stay focused on what’s important and what’s ahead of you. Challenge yourself always because that is the only way you will grow. Always remember that you are your own competition. Focusing on others and their every move will cause you to lose focus on yourself. Always remember that it is always you against you. Strive to be the best version of yourself.” For the person that she is today, Madison lauded and thanked all those who impacted her journey. “Thank you to all of my teachers for
helping me with knowledge that will never be forgotten. I will always be greatly appreciative. To my parents, siblings, family and pastors, thank you for all of the love and support that you have given me thus far, it is beyond words and priceless.” Understanding how fortunate she was to have grown up on Harbour Island, Madison said that in the future, she hopes to be able invest in her home, “Harbour Island, Eleuthera will always be my home no matter where I am. I plan to visit often and potentially start a business here at some point in the future.”
2021,
Aug/Sept
n at i o n al
The Eleutheran
29
Int’l Bonefish & Tarpon Trust Declares Bahamas “World’s Living Lab” for Bonefish A team of researchers working under the umbrella non-profit Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) recently called The Bahamas “the world’s greatest living laboratory” for the study of healthy bonefish. The Florida-based organization, Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, based its declaration on more than a decade of findings resulting from tagging, tracking, and sampling of the elusive and intriguing bonefish. These findings identified important habitats, movements, and spawning areas. “We consider The Bahamas to be the world’s greatest living laboratory for bonefish research,” said BTT President and CEO Jim McDuffie. “By studying healthy bonefish populations in healthy habitats, we’ve been able to learn what makes them tick relatively quickly, which is helping us to advance conservation locally and across the region.” BTT was founded in 1998 in response to a seemingly rapid decline of bonefish in the Florida Keys. The search for answers eventually led the organization to expand its research programs to The Bahamas. One area of study that has produced volumes of new knowledge is bonefish spawning. BTT scientists and collaborating researchers have collected a treasure trove of previously unknown information about bonefish spawning behavior and reproductive biology. And with the help of local guides, they have identified and documented several bonefish pre-spawning aggregation sites. Not only is the research in these living laboratories leading to many new discoveries about bonefish, documentation of these spawning areas is also a first step in securing their future conservation, said Justin Lewis, a Freeport, Grand Bahama, native who serves as BTT’s Bahamas Initiative Manager. “We’ve seen numerous spawning aggregations of between 1,000 and 10,000 fish and tracked one aggregation down to 400 feet. The dive to these depths and what it reveals about the requirements for effective spawning is new to science and important for us to understand,” said Lewis. “This is especially true when it comes to ad-
dressing human activities that might impact spawning or the spawning migration between the flats and the offshore spawning areas.” As BTT developed a better understanding of bonefish and their habitats and conservation needs in The Bahamas, its work expanded. From its staffed office in Freeport, Grand Bahama, BTT has collaborated with civic and environmental group partners to reconnect a mangrove creek that had been disconnected from the sea by an old logging road and to greatly expand outreach and education programs, including the development of a school curriculum focusing on flats ecology. BTT recently embarked on the most ambitious habitat restoration project in its history—an effort
to plant 100,000 mangroves to restore vital mangrove ecosystems decimated by Hurricane Dorian. More than 10,000 mangroves have been planted by volunteer groups since last spring. According to Lewis, conservation of the flats fishery is an important economic driver. Anglers travel to The Bahamas from around the world to chase the elusive gray ghost, contributing to The Bahamas economy by paying fishing lodges and fishing guides, and shopping at local stores and dining at local restaurants. “The bonefish fishery has an annual economic impact exceeding $169 million,” said Lewis, “with much of that occurring in the Fam-
ily Islands. In fact, on some islands the bonefish fishery is the biggest economic contributor.” “BTT along with our collaborating scientists and local partners have made amazing progress over the past decadeplus of research and education,” Lewis continued. “Although this has already resulted in improved conservation, we know there is much more to do. This benefits The Bahamas, but it’s great to know that this work is also being applied to conservation of the species across the Caribbean Basin.”
30 www. EleutheraNews . com
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept, 2021
Author Releases Bahama Edu-Fun Books Series For Youngsters
“Children often learn by doing, and they primarily do what they see,” says Mrs. Teri M. Bethel, the author of a newly released children’s book series, Bahama Kidz Edu-Fun books. Published by Inspire Publishing in the Bahamas, Polly’s Little Secret and A Goat Called Billy are colorful rhyming picture books geared to teach children (ages 4-8) foundational elements for their personal grooming and courteous behavior. With seventeen published books under her belt in several genres, mostly related to family enrichment or skill development, Mrs. Bethel is a proponent of
strong families. As a ghostwriter and publisher, so many heart-wrenching stories have crossed her path regarding the mistreatment of children. She believes it’s never too early to teach children life lessons and let them know they are valuable. Noting that each child was born for a purpose, as adults, it is our responsibility to lovingly guide them to fulfill their destiny. “This begins with foundational elements to be built upon,” the author said, “but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun learning them.” Among the topics covered in the book series are bullying, personal hygiene,
overcoming bed-wetting, mistreatment of animals, balancing playing with reading/schoolwork, and much more. Mrs. Bethel believes that many of the lessons will encourage children to think about how they treat others and themselves. A father of two compared the books to the Royal Readers series—something that is sorely lacking yet much needed with children acting out against civil society. He found the topics necessary as a parent and believed the lessons would positively impact children early in life. Ms. Colleen Aitken, a former pre-school teacher, homeschool mom, and writer,
Page. 11
Now Open
10am to 5pm Mon. to Fri.
Civil Society
said the collection was cleverly penned, noting that the stories were “easy to digest, easy for kids to remember, and just all-around cute!” Veteran Language Studies professional and Homeschool Facilitator in Eleuthera, Mrs. Marguerita Matera, says, “both books not only capture a practical lesson for young children but clearly are stories that present valuable content.” What she really enjoyed were the intriguing poetic features that cause the reader to take note. Though they touch on sensitive areas in today’s society, Mrs. Matera believed the stories were tactfully written. Mrs. Bethel says her books, with their timeless, relatable stories, partner with parents, grandparents, guardians, and teachers to strengthen families and build healthy communities. “This series helps to build character in children and to reinforce good habits,” Mrs. Bethel stated. The first two books in the series are available at Logos Bookstore and Nassau Stationers in Nassau, Office General in Governor’s Harbour, and by ordering on Amazon.com.
Commission, and replacing the Parliamentary Registration Department and - Provide for the enumeration of voters to replace the registration of voters.
and parties contributing to reinforcing the foundation stones of our Preamble, or dislodging them as deemed archaic and worthless? Is the superstructure of this foundation Category 5+ resistant or the facade of a movie set? We still have time to repair the breaches, and contribute to building a nation whose strength, design and longevity can rival the pyramids! To this end, Civil Society Bahamas reiterates and recommends the following planks for an Electoral Charter for Good Governance:
B. Composition of the IEBC to consist of nine (9) Commissioners, appointed by the Governor General with two (2) Commissioners to be recommended by the Prime Minister; two (2) Commissioners to be recommended by the Leader of the Opposition, and four (4) Commissioners to be recommended by Civil Society Organisations and the ninth Commissioner to be the Chairperson of the Commission, on recommendation of the eight appointed Commissioners.
A. Amendment of the Constitution to: - Enshrine the Right to Vote; - Establish an Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), initially by Act of Parliament, as a constitutional
C. Commissioners to be appointed to ten (10) year terms, except in the first instance, when four (4) of the Commissioners will be appointed to seven (7) year terms.
P31
2021,
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept
Page. 10
Professional Services
trict at HIGS. The four programs held included Boys Self-Esteem, Girls Self Esteem, Bright Futures (Executive Functioning & Study Skills) and Goal Climbers (Goal Setting & Motivation Skills), all with the theme “The Me I Want To Be.” The main purpose of the programs was to help students begin to practice goal setting, find the motivation to achieve goals, improve their ability to stay focused, plan ahead, regulate their emotions, think flexibly and creatively and most importantly succeed academically. Another purpose of the programs, said Savannah, was to help students understand the importance of loving themselves for who they are while understanding that learning is a journey not a destination. Overall, HIGS Guidance Summer Programs served 27 students across the North Eleuthera District, from the Harbour Island
Page. 30
Green School, the Harbour Island All Aged School and Laura L. Anderson Primary School, while others were visiting the island for summer break. Ms. Cambridge says that she is passionate about Youth Development and Empowerment, as she enjoys working with young people. It is her hope that they are given the opportunity to hold the pens to their own lives, understand that they are enough and blossom into their best possible selves. To aid in the development of positive young people, she hopes to continuously offer Guidance and Counseling Groups for children and teens. In June 2021, Savannah accepted a full time position at HIGS as their School Counselor, Family Life Teacher and Special Services overseer. Outside of HIGS Savannah also offers in-
Pictured: Savannah Cambridge, with her Guidance Summer program students. dividual counseling sessions to youths and youth guidance/counseling groups.
All Political Parties must register with
F. All Independent Candidates must register with the IEBC. G. Terms of reference of the IEBC shall also include: (i) Refinement of the Permanent Register of Voters by: - Cross-referencing with the Register of Births and Deaths and the Records of the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services, for regular removal of the deceased and prisoners. - Prior publishing of names before removal. - Restoring names of persons who had their voting privileges suspended because of being sentenced to prison, once they have completed their sentence. - Updating voter’s cards and election materials. - Maintenance of an accessible online register of voters. - Consistent enumeration by trained enumerators. - Confirmation or delineation of constituency boundaries every ten (10) years, in conjunction with the Census to eliminate gerrymandering. - Public access to meetings of the Commission.
traveling.
As an ‘island girl at heart’ Ms. Cambridge shared that she also loves baking, socializing with family and friends, and
Civil Society bahamas
D. All expenses necessary for the functioning of the Commission to come from the Consolidated Fund. E. IEBC.
The Eleutheran
(ii) Creation of a website whose data shall include the complete Register of Voters. (iii) Campaign Finance Reform with the following checks and balances: - A limit on the amount a candidate or political party can spend individually, or in combination, on an election in a New Providence constituency with a slightly larger amount to be allowed for a Family Island constituency. - A limit on the amount that a candidate can spend of his/her own money on an election campaign to ensure that elections are not reserved for, or ‘bought’ by wealthy individuals. - Only Bahamian citizens can make financial contributions to candidates and political parties. - Candidates and political parties to report annually to IBEC on all contributions received, and how the money was spent. Reporting to list the names of contributors, the amount of the contribution, and the date the contribution was received. The spending report will state the amount of the expenditure, the name of the recipient of the expenditure, and the services or goods received and the date of the expenditure. - Reports to be published by the end of January each year, and a special report will be issued within two months after an election. - The amounts of contributions to be agreed and political parties will be fined for violations of the campaign finance regulations. - Party officials and candidates to be subjected to fines for gross violations of regulations, as well as imprisonment. H. Accountability by Members of Parliament
for their stewardship in accordance with the following Recall provisions: - Twenty-five per cent (25%) of the registered voters of a constituency sign a recall petition within a period of ten (10) consecutive working days. - Once the signatures have been verified by the Commission, the Member of Parliament will have to resign, and a By-Election held. - The recalled Member of Parliament will be able to be a Candidate in the By-Election. I. To improve political representation candidates are to be selected by the members of the constituency. The main loyalty of a Member of Parliament would then be to constituents, since it would be they who would determine his/ her continuation as a candidate. The process of candidate selection for constituencies should, therefore, be removed from Central Councils to overcome perceived primary loyalty to the political party. The Bahamas has been shaken nationally by Dorian. She has been shaken doubly with the world by the Pandemic, COVID-19. Our Constitution, particularly, its Preamble, is not only inspirational, but prophetic. It speaks to our shakings: the response Bahamas is not “Reset”, but “Return”! Your third chance is your upcoming general election. March on Bahamaland to a common, loftier goal! Carpe Diem!”
31
32 www. EleutheraNews . com
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept, 2021
BACK TO SCHOOL: Students assisted with
essential supplies at Drive through ‘Giveaways’ Despite the continued challenges posed by the pandemic, and a virtual return to school this month, on Saturday afternoon, September 4th, 2021, Deep Creek resident - who moved from her hometown in Grand Bahama to Eleuthera thirteen years ago, Mrs. Derece Thompson, hosted the 6th Annual Back to School Jamboree on the park in Bannerman Town, and gave away essential school supplies. Generous donors made up of community locals and small business owners, including: Aliv, TS Variety Store, Sen. Clay Sweeting, Vanessa Brown, Iva Thompson, Quinton and Chenera Carey, Yazz Beauty Supplies, Rolle Gals Convenience Store, Neil Thompson, Mommy and Me, Big G, Lux Hair, Pamela and Trevor Cartwright, Shavonne Fisher, Supt. Frank Neely and many others, made the day possible said Derece. Mrs. Thompson shared that one goal while hosting the annual event was to have it take place in different settlements throughout South Eleuthera each year, and this year Bannerman Town was chosen as the event location - with sights set on
either Rock Sound or Tarpum Bay in 2022. “With the emergency protocols that are in place, that’s why it was a drive-through and a little different this year,” she shared. At least one hundred stuffed giveaway bags of starter kit school supplies were shared with parents and students from the South Eleuthera communities. On August 15th, 2021, another South Eleuthera resident, entrepreneur Dale Miller Jr. from Green Castle, was also inspired to host a Back to School Giveaway event - funded with his own money this year, without additional sponsors. However, he wanted to take the initiative and give back to the community of South Eleuthera. The 28 year old Eleutheran, also opted to have parents drivethrough to collect the school supplies on the day. Aliv also got in on the fun, with a Back to School Giveaway event on August 21st, 2021, on the Bayfront park in Governor’s Harbour, where parents could drive through to collect school supplies, and a barber booth was also setup to get children looking snappy for their first day back in school, albeit virtually.
Dale Miller Jr. of Green Castle
Parents of South Eleuthera queued up to receive school supplies, courtesy of resident, Dale Miller Jr.
Above: Organizer of the South Eleuthera Back to School Jamboree’s 6th Annual event, Mrs. Derece Thompson, and other volunteers distributed more than 100 stuffed back-to-school bags as parents drove through the Bannerman Town Park to collect the supplies.
Above: Students with staff members of Aliv on Saturday, August 21st, 2021, at Bayfront Park in Governor’s Harbour, where school supplies, fun food, as well as haircuts were up for grabs ahead of the opening of school.
Above: Aliv staff and host DJ show off their dance moves, during the Aliv Back-to School Giveaway on Saturday, August 21st, 2021.
2021,
n at i o n al
Aug/Sept
The Eleutheran
33
Ongoing: Listing Exercise in Preparation for New Digital Census
Chief Census Officer, Kim Saunders, during a press conference on August 23rd, 2021, announced that the national Census of Population and Housing, which is typically conducted every 10 years, and was originally planned to begin in May of 2020 was now set to take place starting in January 2022. “For the first time,” she said, “the Census will be completely digital. The digital format will not only transform how data is managed and analyzed, but it is also changing the way data is collected. For the first time, there will be three ways for individuals to complete the Census questionnaire:
Online, Via Telephone and In Person.” She further detailed, “For the online census, there will be a questionnaire that individuals can complete from the comfort of their homes, anytime of the day, and at their leisure. Via telephone, census enumerators will administer the census questionnaire over the phone. Finally, traditional in-person interviews will also be conducted.” CCO Saunders continued, “Census workers will do all data collection using digital devices, which means all census data, no matter which collection method is used, will be directly uploaded, validated and processed
in real-time by a robust software solution that was pioneered and cofinanced by the World Bank. “The information provided for the Census is used for important planning and policy decisions in government and in the private sector. Census data helps to determine school zones, the location of housing developments, and assists the government to make decisions about the allocation of public resources. “The transition to the digital census was planned long-before the pandemic, but it will obviously have added advantages given the public health challenges we face. Closer to the New Year, we will provide additional details about the digital census, including tutorials to show how individuals can participate in the online questionnaire, however, today, our focus is on the very important census listing exercise, announced earlier this year. “Census listers are currently in the field conducting a pre-census listing exercise to create a National Register of Households and to collect household contact information... This exercise requires census listers to go door-to-door across the country, and I want to reassure the public that we are following all of the established public health guidelines
to ensure the safety of the public and our census listers. “Listers have been provided with masks, face shields and hand sanitizer. They are advised to administer the questions from outdoors keeping a safe distance recommended by public health officials. Census listers work in small teams, but they drive to the various districts in separate vehicles and socially distance. “For the success of the first digital census, we need the support and cooperation of the public today,” emphasized CCO Saunders. “There is a listing exercise going on now until the end of November that is largely aimed at collecting contact information for all households. This contact information will give members of the public the freedom to choose how they participate in the new digital Census, whether online, via telephone or in-person. For the power to choose, you must first take part in our pre-census listing exercise. When you see our census listers, please answer the knock, and remember, the count depends on you!”
BMOTA Response on CDC’s Updated Level 4 Travel Advisory The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation issued a release on Monday, August 23rd, 2021 in response to the USA’s CDC updated travel advisory for the Bahamas. The statement read, “The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation has taken note of the updated travel advisory issued from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), on Monday, August 23rd, 2021, increasing its travel recommendation for The Bahamas from a Level 3 to a Level 4 destination. “The Bahamas is among a large number of countries, including several Caribbean destinations, for which the CDC has issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice (THN) specific to COVID-19 risk.
“With the Delta variant leading to an increase in cases across the globe, The Bahamas is taking additional precautions to ensure that safety remains of the utmost importance with stringent entry protocols in place. Most recently, protocols were updated to require all travelers - both fully vaccinated and unvaccinated (as well as children ages 2-11) - to obtain a negative COVID-19 test (either a Rapid Antigen Test or PCR Test), taken no more than five (5) days prior to the date of arrival in The Bahamas. “These entry measures combined with onisland restrictions as necessary will help protect all those who reside in and visit The Islands of The Bahamas. Due to the fluidity of COVID-19, the Government of The Bahamas monitors islands individu-
ally and can quickly enact protective measures to address specific cases or spikes accordingly. As the situation continues to evolve, officials will monitor cases across the islands and assess protocols and restrictions as needed. For an overview of The Bahamas’ travel and entry protocols, please visit Bahamas.com/travelupdates. “The Government is also partnering with private health care providers to maximize administration of the vaccine to get as many people vaccinated as quickly as possible. We continue to encourage everyone to do their part to minimize the spread: wear a mask, wash your hands and abide by physical distancing and sanitation protocols that help keep you and your fellow Bahamians safe.”
34 www. EleutheraNews . com
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept, 2021
New Challengers for Eleuthera MP’s in General Election Called for Sept 16th Prime Minister the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis, on August 19th, 2021 announced that he had advised the Governor-General to issue the writs of election, to be held on Thursday, September 16th, 2021. Earlier, on the morning of August 19th, Commissioner of Police Paul Rolle, in his capacity as Provost Marshall, read proclamations outside the House of Assembly at 10am from Governor-General Sir Cornelius A. Smith dissolving Parliament. During his election date announcement, Prime Minister Minnis said the next Government would have key decisions to make in enacting post-pandemic public health legislation, continued economic growth and rebuilding and renewing a post-COVID-19 Bahamas. “A new mandate is needed to ensure that a Government is in place to do this difficult work over the long term as we are reaching a critical turning point in the pandemic,” said the Prime Minister. He urged all political parties to conduct their campaigns in keeping with
Stephen Hank Johnson, Free National Movement (FNM)
Howard ‘Rickey’ Mackey, Free National Movement (FNM)
public health guidelines and touted the country’s long tradition of peaceful elections, as he called on Bahamians to continue that tradition. Duly nominated candidates contesting the seat in the North Eleuthera constituency, include: incumbent Howard Rickey Mackey with the Free National Movement (FNM); Sylvanus Petty with the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP); McClain Pinder with the United Coalition Movement (UCM); and Dwight Cambridge with the Grand Commonwealth Party (GCP). In the Central and South Eleuthera constituency, another four candidates were nominated to contest the seat, including: incumbent Stephen Hank Johnson with the Free National Movement (FNM); Clay Sweeting with the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP); Cassius Stuart, leader of the United Coalition Movement (UCM); and Alphonso Albury with the Grand Commonwealth Party (GCP).
Clay Sweeting, Progressive Liberal Party’ (PLP)
Sylvanus Petty, Progressive Liberal Party’ (PLP)
Cassius Stuart, United Coalition Movement (UCM)
McClain Pinder, United Coalition Movement (UCM)
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept, 2021
35
A Conversation on Education -
Virtual Return, Administration Changes, Exam Performance in The Eleuthera District.
District Superintendent of Education for Eleuthera, Mr. Michael Culmer. District Superintendent of Education for Eleuthera, Mr. Michael Culmer, on Tuesday morning, August 31st, 2021, as students all across Eleuthera returned to the classroom virtually to begin the 2021/2022 school year, in an interview with The Eleutheran, shared information and updates relevant to the Eleuthera school district. “We’ve been preparing here at the district office, to make sure that we are functioning the way we need to be for this new school year.” Commenting on the decision taken for the virtual return to school, DSE Culmer said, “Our virtual start has less to do with academics and everything to do with health. That is why we have started virtually. It is very concerning to see the numbers of Covid-19 cases in our island. Also when passing through communities and observing our interactions and our activities - they are very risky. People are crowding, very few people are wearing masks. I am pleased to see that there seems to be a greater interest in vaccines now, but if we are not regarding the health and safety measures within our communities, and our infection rates continue to be on the increase as they are now - with suspected variants among our communities, to say that we will open our institutions and put alot of children in a small space, where they are going to be eating and interacting - we would be taking a great risk with people’s children. “Being progressive in our thinking in edu-
child is healthy enough and alive to receive it’.” In response to the question of what options were available for parents who have returned to work, and are no longer available to be at home to provide oversight for children now required to stay at home for virtual instruction, DSE Culmer responded, “I’ve thought about this and look at what we are doing as family. One thing I’ve learned from my personal experience during this pandemic is that this is a time when you need to be able to depend on family members. You need to be able to depend on your church and other community organizations... We know now that because of this heightened sense of health and safety, we cannot put anybody together in large numbers. Even churches are not in a position where they can have all their members’ children together in a room. I want to encourage families first and foremost to partner with each other, and to those without families for churches to partner - to ensure that as long as we have to be in this virtual space - there is a place for children to study and attend virtual school.” In terms of national exam results across the district DSE Culmer shared that there
“...tremendous improvement in the both the BJC and the BGCSE performance in the Eleuthera district. Across all of our schools last year...” DSE cation, we are not prepared to gamble and take risks with other people’s children, that I would not take with my own. So, at this time I can’t say to parents that we are going to return to face-to-face instruction on ‘this or that date’ on the calendar. I can state that we will return when there are a drastically reduced number of Covid-19 infections in our communities. The return to face-to-face instruction will be guided by the health authorities - who will be looking at things like infection rates, and immunization rates, numbers of active cases, as well as deaths. It is just a major concern with the numbers of deaths. The other driver of this conversation is availability of hospital beds - so, until hospital rates, infection rates and the likes go down, I can’t see the health authorities recommending to the Ministry of Education, a return to face-toface instruction. “It is frustrating at times dealing with the virtual instruction,” added Mr. Culmer, “but to quote the Director of Education, ‘We can always do things to make up and provide remediation, but that is hinged on the fact that a
has been “tremendous improvement in the both the BJC and the BGCSE performance in the Eleuthera district. Across all of our schools last year, there were some that did not perform as well in the national exams - not attaining that outstanding number of A and B passes. However, this year we have had more students across more of the schools attaining the A and B passes.” Explaining the dip in grade performance in 2020, Mr. Culmer shared, “If you would recall, last year, a number of institutions made provision for those students who had done well throughout the year, and who were qualified, without the BGCSE examinations. They permitted those students to enter their institution without the exams. So, although those students were registered for national exams across the district, a majority did not show up to write the exams. Colleges also did not make provisions for students to miss midterms exams or a week of P47 classes and the like - to be able to return to centers on the island
36 www. EleutheraNews . com
n at i o n al
Aug/Sept, 2021
RBPF Establishes Election Investigation Unit On Sunday, August 22nd, 2021, the Commissioner of Police, Paul Rolle, announced the establishment of an Election Investigation Unit, with responsibility for investigating all matters related to the Bahamas National General Elections. The reason given for the new unit by the Commissioner, was the aim for, “all candidates to campaign unhindered and for members of the public to move about freely and to express themselves freely.” With the general election set to be held on September 16th, 2021, Commissioner Rolle communicated in his announcement that, “The Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) will ensure that all registered voters in The Bahamas will be allowed to freely exercise their Constitutional rights to elect the candidate, party and government of their choice. Each person is allowed one vote and when counted together with other votes will determine the overall outcome. The Bahamas has a history of free elections and this year’s election is no different.” He also shared that it had been brought to his attention that party paraphernalia posted throughout New Providence had been deliberately destroyed by some people, who were not identified. Rolle highlighted that the posting of paraphernalia during election time as political parties campaign is permitted, and reminded the public that it is an offense to interfere with or to destroy party paraphernalia. Anyone caught doing so would be prosecuted, he stated.
Pictured Above: Commissioner of Police, Paul Rolle, as Provost Marshall. He continued, imploring the leaders of all political parties to encourage their supporters to exercise restraint during this time and to respect the process, and not destroy or remove their opponent’s paraphernalia. The public was encouraged to notify the police whenever and wherever they observed people doing so. The Commissioner pledged that the RBPF will continue to work in
partnership with all citizens, residents and visitors, to provide quality law enforcement service, with emphasis on the maintenance of law and order, the preservation of peace, the prevention and detection of crime and the enforcement of all laws with which it is charged. Commissioner Rolle also admonished all police officers and police civilians to, “perform their duties in a
manner that respects individual human rights and which reflects fairness, sensitivity and compassion... Police officers ought to be impartial and not show or demonstrate by their actions or behavior their political preference and are reminded that police officers must always be impartial in dealing with members of the public as they carry out the mandate of the Force.”
NOAA GOES-East satellite image of Hurricane Elsa as it moves up Florida’s west coast on July 6, 2021.
Not Slowing!
Atlantic hurricane season shows no signs of slowing August 4, 2021
The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season is well underway, and atmospheric and oceanic conditions remain conducive for an above-average hurricane season, according to the annual mid-season update issued by NOAA’s Climate Prediction Cen-
ter, a division of the National Weather Service. The latest outlook reflects that the number of expected named storms (winds of 39
n at i o n al
Aug/Sept, 2021
37
mph or greater) is 15-21, including 7-10 hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or greater), of which 3-5 could become major hurricanes (Category 3, 4, or 5 with winds 111 mph or greater). This updated outlook includes the 5 named storms that have formed so far, with Hurricane Elsa becoming the earliest 5th named storm on record. “After a record-setting start, the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season does not show any signs of relenting as it enters the peak months ahead,” said Rick Spinrad, Ph.D., NOAA administrator. “NOAA will continue to provide the science and services that are foundational to keeping communities prepared for any threatening storm.”
Page. 36
NOAA scientists predict that the likelihood of an above-normal 2021 Atlantic hurricane season is 65%. There is a 25% chance of a near-normal season and a 10% chance of a below-normal season. “A mix of competing oceanic and atmospheric conditions generally favor aboveaverage activity for the remainder of the Atlantic hurricane season, including the potential return of La Nina in the months ahead,” said Matthew Rosencrans, lead seasonal hurricane forecaster at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. Atlantic sea surface temperatures are not expected to be as warm as they were during the record-breaking 2020 season; however, reduced vertical wind shear and an enhanced west Africa monsoon all contribute to the cur-
The 2021 Atlantic tropical cyclone names selected by the World Meteorological Organization. (NOAA)
rent conditions that can increase seasonal hurricane activity. These conditions are set against the backdrop of the ongoing warm phase of the Atlantic MultiDecadal Oscillation, which has been favoring more active hurricane seasons since 1995.
“Now is the time for families and communities to ensure their preparations are in place,” said National Weather Service Director Louis W. Uccellini, Ph.D. “These storms can be devastating, so be prepared for all possible outcomes by staying tuned
to the forecast and following safety information and possible evacuation notifications issued by emergency officials.” NOAA’s update to the 2021 outlook covers the entire sixmonth hurricane season, which ends Nov. 30. Throughout the hurricane season, NOAA’s National Hurricane Center (NHC) provides the hurricane track and intensity forecasts that emergency managers and communities rely on across areas at risk during a landfalling storm. NHC is the source for all watches and warnings for tropical storms, hurricanes, and related storm surge. The seasonal outlook from NOAA is not a landfall forecast as landfalls are typically only predictable within about a week of a storm potentially reaching a coastline. Learn more about NOAA’s comprehensive expertise across all aspects of hurricane science and forecasting with our Hurricane Resource Guide on NOAA. gov. Visit FEMA’s Ready.gov for the latest information about hurricane preparedness and evacuation safety.
The updated 2021 Atlantic hurricane season probability and numbers of named storms. (NOAA)
38 www. EleutheraNews . com
Select police reports, shared by the RBPF locally Drug Arrest Report: On Thursday 26th August 2021, sometime around 1:40pm, Officers while conducting enquiries in the area of Queens Highway, Hatchet Bay, observed a Gold 2000 Honda Accord being driven along the said road. The officers noted when the driver of the vehicle looked in their direction, and began fidgeting with something on the inside. As a result the officers became suspicious and beckoned the driver to stop the vehicle. The officers then approached the driver and informed him of their suspicions. They then conducted a search of the suspect reference to dangerous drugs and firearms, and while searching his left front pants pocket, the officers found a clear plastic baggie, containing a quantity of suspected marijuana. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence.
area. At 1:50pm Officers visited the establishment along with one of the proprietors she confirmed that there was a breaking at her restaurant. She reported that sometime between 6:30pm on 14/08/21 and 1:40pm on 15/08/21 some unknown person/s broke and entered her business Establishment where the culprit searched and stole one black tablet valued at $300.00 make and model unknown along with $220.00 cash in assorted currencies from the kitchen area. She requested police action. The scene was processed, investigations are ongoing.
Arrest Possession of DangerDrugs: On Sunday 15th August 2021, at 9:20pm, Officers came in at N.E.P.S with two adult under arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs and Stealing. They Arrest: Possession of Danger- were reported arrested at 9:00pm ous Drugs with Intent to Supply: On at Three Island Dock. The suspects Thursday 19th August 2021, some- were subsequently processed and time around 1:25pm, Officers while charged with those offences. conducting enquiries in the area of Upper Bogue, observed a male Arrest: Possession of Dangerstanding outside of a green and ous Drugs - On Sunday 15th August white apartment complex, situated 2021, sometime around 6:45pm, on Queens Highway, with what ap- Officers acting on information repeared to be a homemade marijua- ceived, and armed with a search na cigarette in his mouth. warrant, proceeded to the residence The suspect looked in the di- of an adult male situated in Hatchet rection of the Police vehicle and Bay. On arrival at the said residence quickly removed the suspected the officers saw and spoke with a femarijuana cigarette from his mouth, male reference to the location of the and clutched it inside of his right suspect. While attempting to secure hand. As a result the officers co- the residence and locate the susvertly inserted themselves inside of pect, the officers observed when a bushes, which surrounded the said dark male suddenly ran from a room, apartment building. holding a clear plastic jar, containThe officers maneuvered ing a quantity of plant like material, themselves towards the rear of the and exited the residence through apartment, where they then emerged a rear door. As a result, a team of from the bushes and quickly ap- officers pursued the suspect as anproached the suspect. The officers other team secured the room, which identified themselves to the suspect the suspect was seen fleeing from. and informed him that he is suspect- While in pursuit of the suspect the ed to be in possession of dangerous officer observed when he ran over drugs. A search was conducted of a rocky jagged area, and proceedthe suspect, and while searching ed towards a cliff, located on the his groin area, the officers found (1) shoreline, where he jumped into the clear piece of plastic, containing (4) ocean. The officers then observed silver foil wraps and (1) clear piece as the suspect opened the jar and of plastic, each containing a quan- submerged it into the water. The tity of suspected marijuana. officers also noted that the force of The officers also discovered the waves began pushing the susa white homemade marijuana ciga- pect into the rocks of the shoreline. rette. As a result the suspect was As a result the officer assisted the arrested and cautioned reference to suspect by directing him to a lower possession of dangerous drugs with area, where they were able to assist intent to supply. The suspect was him out of the water. However, they later processed and charged with were unable to retrieve any of the that offence. suspected marijuana. The suspect was taken back to his residence, Shop Breaking Report: On where the remaining officers were 15/08/21 at 1:49pm, Officers at the positioned. They reported that on Rock Sound Police Station report- entering the bedroom, where the ed receiving information of a shop suspect was seen fleeing from, they breaking at an establishment in that found a female. They stated that ous
Lo c a l they also observed a brown homemade marijuana cigarette on a couch inside of the bedroom. As a result both suspects were arrested and cautioned reference to possession of dangerous drugs. On completion of the search the suspects were transported to the Hatchet Bay Police Station, where they were processed and charged. Arrest: Possession of Dangerous Drugs with Intent to Supply On Saturday 14th August 2021, sometime around 6:50pm, Officers acting on information received and armed with a search warrant reference to dangerous drugs and firearms, proceeded the residence of an adult male suspect situated in Hatchet Bay, where they executed the said warrant. On arrival at the residence the officers gained entry into the home through the front door, which was found to be unlocked. Upon entering the residence, the officers observed (4) females, and (1) male who identified a quantity of suspected marijuana and (1) clear plastic zip lock bag containing (4) silver foil wraps, each containing a quantity of suspected marijuana, and (1) clear plastic baggie containing a quantity of hashish oil were found. The officers moved to the outside of the residence, where they conducted a search of the front porch, and found (2) silver foil wraps, each containing a quantity of suspected marijuana, which were concealed inside of a black water bottle. The suspects were shown the exhibits and arrested and cautioned reference to dangerous drugs with intent to supply. The suspects were transported to Hatchet Bay Police Station, where they were processed. A further search was conducted of the male suspect and the sum of $481.00 was found in his possession, which was seized as suspected proceeds from the sale of Dangerous Drugs. All suspects were processed and charged with possession of Dangerous Drugs with intent to supply. Drug Arrest Report - On Sunday 15th August, 2021 at about 1:45am Officers while conducting mobile patrols observed a golf cart with two occupants. Upon seeing the officers, the occupants began fidgeting in the vehicle. The vehicle was forced to stop and both males namely and the vehicle was searched reference to dangerous drugs and firearms. while searching the vehicle Officers discovered two (2) suspected marijuana cigarettes, a vape pen with suspected THC and forty-two (42) Zanax pills which neither suspect had a prescription for. Both suspects were arrested, processed and later charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs. Drug Arrest /Breach of Curfew - On Saturday14th August, 2021 at about 11:40pm, Officers reported the offender, an adult male reference to Breach of Curfew after he was seen walking south along Barrack Street, Harbour Island in the area of Vic Hum Nightclub. He was warned of prosecution reference to same. A search was conducted of his person, at which time a piece of tissue containing a small quantity of suspected marijuana was found in his left cargo pants pocket. As a result, he was arrested and cautioned reference to possession of dangerous drugs. He was transported to Harbour Island Police where he was processed and charged. Drug arrest report - On Saturday 14/8/21 at about 10:03pm Officers came in at Harbour Island Police Station with an adult male and reported that he was arrested and cautioned while on Bay Street Harbour Island reference to possession of dangerous drugs namely Marijuana. The suspect was processed and charged with that offence. Arrest Reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs - On Friday 6th August, 2021 at about 12:25pm Officers armed with a search warrant executed a search on the home of an adult male. While there, officers discovered a quantity of suspected marijuana. As a result he was arrested and cautioned. He was later processed and charged with that offence. Arrests Reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs - On Friday 6th August, 2021 at about 2:30pm Officers armed with a search warrant executed a search on the home of two adult females where they discovered a quantity of suspected marijuana both persons were arrested
Aug/Sept, 2021
Police Contact Numbers
HeadQuarters (GH) 332-3500
Governor’s Harbour 332-2111 OR 332-2117 O/C Governor’s Harbour 332-2723 Gov.Harb. Airport Station 332-2323 Deep Creek Station 334-8207 Tarpum Bay Station 334-4033 Rock Sound Station 334-2244 Rock Sound Sgt. Office 334-2212 Rock Sound Airport Stn 334-2052 L. Bogue Station (Airport) 335-1208 Harbour Island Station 333-2111 O/C Harbour Island 333-2327 Spanish Wells Station 333-4030 Gregory Town Station 335-5322 Hatchet Bay Station 335-0086
and later processed and charged with Possession of Dangerous Drugs. Suspicious Death under Investigation Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the discovery of a body that was beginning to decompose, on Monday 27th Aug 2021. Preliminary report is that shortly before 2pm, police received report that the body of a male was found partially decomposed outside a residence situated Dump Road Whyms Bight. Officers were dispatched and on their arrival at the scene they were directed to the area where they found the body of a male lying on the ground. Their examination confirmed that the male was lifeless and unresponsive with some form of decomposition already starting. The local doctor visited the scene and pronounced the body dead. Police will await an autopsy report to determine the exact cause of death and the identification of a next of kin to confirm the victim’s identity. Investigations into this matter continues.
39 n at i o n al Police Warn of Increasing Counterfeit Currency in Distribution 2021,
Aug/Sept
The Eleutheran
evening or at night especially in parking lots or other conspicuous locations. You are advised to check the money out properly before turning over any items. If you are suspicious, try to obtain the vehicle information (car model, plate number) or ask the person to see a government issued form of identification. Individuals and merchants alike, can also feel the texture of the notes, pay attention to the color and size of the notes, as these features are not easily manipulated,” said the FCIB. The Branch further advised, “We want the members of the public to know that we treat these types of matters very seriously and persons found unlawfully in possession of counterfeit money will be investigated and possibly charged. We
The Financial Crime Investigation Branch (FCIB) of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF), in August, warned the public that they had seen an increase in counterfeit Bahamian Currency notes being distributed within communities. The most common counterfeit currency notes being seen are $20.00 and $50.00 Bahamian
notes, they informed. “These notes may be given to unsuspecting merchants or individuals as a medium of exchange or for the trade of goods and services. We advise merchants to use counterfeit money detectors such as counterfeit pens, magnetic counterfeit detectors and ultraviolent detectors (UV Lights) etc. Avoid conducting transactions in the
want to encourage persons to turn over ALL suspected counterfeit currency to the police as soon as possible. We do not advise you to keep this money for any reason. Please note that upon being convicted, a person can be sentenced to a prison term of up to five (5) years, according to the Penal Code Chapter 84, Section 379 (2).” For additional information on authentic currency notes features, the public is encouraged to visit the Central Bank of the Bahamas website at www.centralbankbahamas.com. The website, provides information about specific features of each currency note to help identify counterfeit currency notes from authentic ones.
Two men arrested for possession of dangerous drugs in a joint operation
Snapshot Covid -19
As it was September 6th, 2021 Friday-Sept3rd-Two men arraigned for the possession of dangerous drugs Photo by Donavan McIntosh-The Tribune
For more information visit www.EleutheraNews.com
During a joint operation on Monday, August 30th, with OPBAT, consisting of personnel from the DEA, the DEU, US Coast Guard, and the Royal Bahamas Police Force Marine Division, a vessel was intercepted in the area of Long Island. Following a search, a large quantity of cocaine was discovered and two men were arrested. According to preliminary reports, sometime around 7:30 am, on Sunday, August 29th, 2021 the joint OPBAT operation team, acting on intelligence, intercepted a sailboat off Long Island with two men on board. One of the men was from Venezuela and the other from the Dominican Republic. The suspects, said police, were informed of the reason their vessel was stopped and boarded. The officers then conducted a preliminary search of the
vessel. However, nothing was found. It was decided to conduct a more thorough search, so the suspects were arrested, and the vessel was towed into Exuma. On Monday, August 30th, 2021, the officers, while in Exuma, conducted a secondary search of the vessel and found three bags hidden in a secret compartment. On inspection of the bags, they contained 24 kilos of suspected cocaine with an estimated street value of $500,000, police stated. The suspects and drugs were transported to New Providence and arrived in the capital on Monday evening, August 30th. The Venezuelan and the Dominican, who reportedly denied smuggling cocaine into the country, were placed before Magistrate Court on Friday, September 3rd, and arraigned for Possession of Dangerous Drugs and other related offences. They were then remanded to prison pending a bail hearing.
40 www. EleutheraNews . com
National Exam Results 2021: Eleuthera Top Achievers
The Ministry of Education (MOE) announced the results of the 2021 National Examinations at a press conference on Monday, August 30th, 2021. The Hon. Jeffrey Lloyd, Minister of Education headlined the list of ministry officials who participated in the virtual event, which was broadcast live on television. Lorraine Armbrister, Permanent Secretary; Dr. Marcellus Taylor, Director; Serethea Clarke, Under Secretary and Evelyn Sawyer, Assistant Director, also participated. Dr. Taylor noted that although many students, for whatever reason, were discouraged from participating in national exams (BJC and BGCSE) the MOE provided the opportunities and many students have had success. “One of the standards that we look at to see how many students have succeeded was how many students of the BGCSE level received 5 BGCSEs with a minimum grade of D. Over the COVID period about 1500 such students met that standard. I am sure that for each and every one of those 1500 students they are eternally grateful for the fact that we forged ahead with these national exams.” On behalf of the students, Dr. Taylor acknowledged the Examinations and Assessments Division (EAD), senior staff at MOE, teachers, school administrators and their parents. Minister Lloyd, in an overview of 2021 National Examinations, offered congratulations to the students for their achievements and commended the officers of the EAD. He extended thanks to parents, teachers, administrators, educators, family and friends of the students for their support. He said, “The fact that we were able to continue with our examinations is significant, as it underscores the fact that we have not compromised on the quality of our University of Cambridge certified examinations – the BGCSE’s. “This is a critical accomplishment, as we are aware that in some developed countries, COVID-19 presented difficulties in administering national examinations. The fact that we navigated through the multiplicity of restrictions and limitations in our instructional process, while still preparing our students to write these papers, at over 100 centers through-
Ed uc at i o n B eat
out the islands, was an achievement. This fact was even more critical for those students, who for the second consecutive year, had to deal with the physical and emotional disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic.” According to the Ministry of Education, the Bahamas General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE) examination is designed to cater to at least eighty (80%) percent of students in grade twelve. The total number of subjects offered is twentyeven (27). The number of subjects offered in the Bahamas Junior Certificate (BJC) examination is thirteen (13). Students in Eleuthera who achieved the most passes of C grade or higher in the 2021 BJC and BGCSE National Examinations, are outlined below for five of the public high schools in the Eleuthera District. At Central Eleuthera High School (CEHS) the students with top results included: BJC exams (# of Subjects C or above):
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Janae Cooper - 6; Kyra Courtemanche – 9; Aretha Culmer – 11; Ellis Culmer – 9; Nikita Deal – 9; Vanessa Joseph – 6; Faith Knowles – 9; Crache’ Major - 5; Shaunia McCardy – 6; D’Aundra Sands – 5; Terrinique Sands – 8; Britney Sineus - 8; Jade Thompson – 6; Laquay Thompson - 5; Jordan Whylly - 7.
At North Eleuthera High School (NEHS) the students with top results included: BJC exams (# of Subjects C or above):
• • •
Kezia Johnson - 9; Tashae Brown - 10; Aaron McCartney - 7.
BGCSE exams (# of Subjects C or above): • Kyle Collins - 6 (combined results); • Damari Johnson - 6; • Shkeil Darrell - 4. At Preston H. Albury High School (PHAHS) the students with top results included: BJC exams (# of Subjects C or above):
• • • • • • • • • • • • •
Shavana Basden - 3; Jatonia Bethel - 3; Caleb Carey - 5; Shontavia Cash - 4; Taequanna Curry - 4; Kirkwood Kemp - 6; Xavier Knowles - 5; Bernette Leary - 4; Rhandeisha Mackey - 3; Gia Morley - 5; Roshawn Munroe - 6; Nathalia Saunders - 2; Lanicia Thompson - 4.
BGCSE exams (# of Subjects C or above): • • • • • • •
Micquel Cartwright - 4; Sheanna Hall - 3; Shawnice Lightbourne - 3; Vonyce Munnings - 3; Kelvano Rolle - 2; Tanai Sands - 2; Sidron Johnson - 3.
BGCSE exams (# of Subjects C or above):
At Harbour Island All Age School (HIAAS) the students with top results included:
At Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School (SGPAAS) the students with top results included:
BJC exams (# of Subjects C or above): • Cloyd Leary - 7; • Aniah Butler - 4; • Princess Ferguson - 5; • Lianna Desinor - 5; • Joram Louis - 4; • Religious Neely - 6; • Cindy Turene - 4; • Jaiell Winder - 3; • Jayden Young - 3; • Aaron Smith - 3; • Alexia Oliver - 3.
• • • • • • • • •
Alia Albury – 6; Ricardo Belle – 4; Neva Dorvilus – 4; Sharico Farquharson – 8; Andreon Gardiner – 6; Enoch Rolle – 4; Medwick Rolle - 8; Kayla Sands – 6; Wallace Sineus Jr. – 4.
BJC exams (# of Subjects C or above):
BGCSE exams (# of Subjects C or above): • Madison Wilson - 4; • Astralia Carey - 3.
BGCSE exams (# of Subjects C or above):
An overall outline of this year’s national performance in the BJC and BGCSE examinations follow.
• • •
• • • • •
Amari Pinder - 8; Brettesha Sands - 7; Nehemiah Joseph - 7.
Colby Mullin - 8; Chandler Mullin - 8; Delano Armbrister - 6; Dianthe Anderson - 5; Cody Sweeting - 4.
2021 BJC Examinations 9,552 sat the examinations, at 110 centers, of which 49 were at
Aug/Sept, 2021
government schools, while 61 centers were independently administered BJC exams covered 13 subjects, with 34,584 grades awarded, compared to 31,970 awarded in 2020. For an 8.2% increase. Mathematics and English Language were the two most subscribed subjects: English Language with a total of 6,204 candidates, a 10.49% increase over last year’s total of 5, 615 students. 6,994 candidates sat the Maths exams this year, compared to 6,277 in 2020, for an 11.42%. Increase in candidates sitting General Science, Religious Studies, Family and Consumer Science, Social Studies, Literature and French, during the 2021 period compared to the previous year. Female candidates have outperformed male candidates, in both the BJC and BGCSE exams. Of the 9,552 BJC candidates, 1,164 of them received a grade of C or higher in 5 or more subjects. This represents 12.19% of the overall candidature; and a 7.48% increase when compared to last year, which had 1,083 candidates obtaining this distinction. 1630 candidates achieved a grade D or above in at least 5 subjects, representing 17.06% of the overall candidature and a 1.62% increase compared to last year’s 1,604 candidates, who performed at this level. 2021 BGCSE Examinations 27 subjects were offered, resulting in 17,874 grades being awarded this year. This represents an increase of 18.19% compared to 2020, which had a total of 15,123 grades. • 5,159 candidates sat the BGCSE exams at 96 centers throughout the country. • 40 centers were at government schools while 56 centers were independently administered. • English Language, Biology, Mathematics and Religious Studies continue to remain the subjects of choice for the vast majority of candidates. Art and Design Scheme C, Auto Mechanics and Clothing Construction remain the least subscribed subjects. • Of the 27 subjects tested, 24 subjects saw an increase in the number of candidates being awarded a grade. There was a significant increase in the number of candidates receiving grades between A – C. This year 1,804 or 10.09% of the 17,874 grades given were A’s.
2021,
Lo c a l
Aug/Sept
The Eleutheran
41
Island School Summer Apprentices: Opportunities & Collaboration with Young Leaders
Six South Eleuthera students took part in the Island School’s 2021 Summer Apprentice program. The Island School shared that they were thrilled to welcome six apprentices into their community for their annual Summer Apprentice Program. Apprentices were selected through an application process and had to be residents of South Eleuthera between the ages of 16-19 years old. This year’s apprentices were selected from a pool of 65 applicants, interested in mentorship and the development of a specific skill or trades. The apprentices received not only training in a specific occupation, they also participated in weekly seminar classes that provided background and essential information on career development including personal financial management, resume writing and communication skills. In addition, through support from generous donors, apprentices also received a stipend for their five-week work program. Summer 2021 apprentices worked alongside The Island School’s research staff, dining services, alumni and administrative teams, facilities, and research technicians. Petra, an apprentice in Research, shared some of her motivation for participating in the program, saying, “The apprenticeship would encourage me
• Overall, 50.44% of the grades awarded were to candidates earning A – C grades. • A total of 550 candidates received at least grade C or above in 5 or more subjects. This represents 10.66% of the overall 5,159 candidature and a 50.68% increase compared
to gain a great deal of knowledge while still allowing me to acquire new transferable skills and attributes. During this time, I would gain real-world experience and pursue various career options. Furthermore, this is a prestigious organisation, and I would be honored to be a member of the Island School team for the length of the apprenticeship.” She continued, expressing what she hoped to gain from her experience, “I expect to learn lifetime skills such as communication, teamwork, and professionalism as a result of this apprenticeship. These benefits could ideally open up a lot of doors for me in the job market, especially because I’ll be working with such knowledgeable people who will shape and mold me into a motivated, open-minded worker. This apprenticeship will ideally aid me in my career journey, and if I chose it, it might lead to a work opportunity at the organization.” Apprenticed with the Kitchen, Rhandi, another summer apprentice said, “I have always been interested in a summer job, and it would really give me experience for a college resume. I also had a good experience when I was at the Island School for my high school community service, so I would love to
to last year’s 365 candidates who received grade C or above in 5 or more subjects. • 875 candidates obtained a grade of D or above in at least 5 subjects. This represents 16.96% of the overall candidature and a 46.32% increase when compared to last year’s
be back.” Focused on the Farm & Aquaponics program, apprentice Kelvano shared that he took the opportunity to learn from and observe professionals. “I want to take their strengths and add it to my own. It will help me to pursue my career and also practice new life skills such as farming and aquaponics.” He added, “I hope to gain knowledge and learn how to conduct myself professionally around others. I hope to be the best version of myself when I’m done with the apprenticeship. I also hope to forge new bonds with the people I meet.” Not only do apprentices gain valuable experience during their summer, but they also support The Island School community in many different ways, by offering new insight, asking good questions, and assisting mentors to do their jobs better. Nikki Rolle, mentor to Iesha, who worked in alumni relations shared, “Having an apprentice this summer has been a great experience. Iesha has been easy to communicate with and carries out tasks as asked in the most efficient manner. We were able to complete about 80% of our goals within the first three weeks and we anticipate checking off the remaining by the end of her time with me. Being the direct manager of someone has also helped me in prioritizing my daily tasks in accordance with my weekly goals.” Lesha, who is a Deep Creek Middle School alumni, had a similarly positive and rewarding experience. “I applied to this apprenticeship to gain job experience and give back to a community that has given so much to me. I’m getting to experience and learn things I never would have if I didn’t come to this apprenticeship. I’m learning that there is so much more knowledge for me to be taught and how working can actually be really fun with the right people.” Each year, said the organizers, the Apprentice Program brings great energy and a collaborative spirit to The Island School campus and staff, and provides meaningful learning experiences for its participants. They expressed gratitude for the generous donors who make the program possible, their staff who facilitate important learning opportunities, and the motivated students eager to learn from their programs. Source: The Island School
598 candidates who received a grade of D or above in at least 5 subjects. Minister Lloyd urged students to remain committed to their preparations for examinations. “Despite the current temporal challenges brought on by this pandemic, please remember that
the ability remains within you to thrive and achieve great success,” he said.
Lo c a l
42 www. EleutheraNews . com
Page. 2
Aug/Sept, 2021
“We cannot force them to move”, but he warned people who would be hesitant, to be safe rather than sorry in the case of a major
emergency preparedness spector James Ferguson in South Eleuthera, who shared, “Police have already compiled a register of people who may need to be evacuated... We cannot force them to move”, but he warned people who would be hesitant, to be safe rather than sorry in the case of a major hurricane, where the police may not be able to come out to assist in an emergency. Ferguson also highlighted that police stood ready to assist the administrator, assist with shelter management, assist with cleanup, assist with community needs - assist with law and order and humanity, and all shelters in the district had been visited and inspected ahead of the June 1st start of the hurricane season. Officer in Charge of North Eleuthera, Superintendent Anthony McCartney in his briefing noted that ahead of a storm, notice would be sent through the administrator’s offices on any special closures of the Glass Window Bridge. He added that teams would be on alert with heightened pa-
hurricane” trols to head off crimes of opportunity, and that all shelters had been inspected, “In a nutshell, we stand ready, and have communicated with the relevant stakeholders in the communities. Have noted low lying areas and those prone to flooding. Hurricane kits have been revised - like inflatable rafts, chain saws, life vests etc.. as we are looking past the conventional list.” Following the RBPF update, administrators Margaret Symonette for Central, Gregory Knowles for South, and Carletta Turnquest and Lynton Pinder representing the North, described their different states of readiness, highlighting communication assets, shelter readiness training and the state of supply stocks and portable power supplies for the different locations. Chief councillors also gave updates, including Robert Roberts in Spanish Wells, who said the general population was well prepared in the past, despite there being no shelters earmarked in Spanish Wells or on Russell Island, with the exception of the
Haitian community on Spanish Wells and Russell Island, who he described as being most at risk. He said they were working on getting the numbers of people that may need assistance, and flood zones had been identified. Russell Island, he added, is where heavy equipment would be stored ahead of any storm, and with most of the population having vhf radio, communication had not historically been a problem. With the community’s large fishing fleet, he informed that fishing vessels under 30 feet would be taken out of water, and larger vessels stored in mangroves. He also pointed out that the majority of homes have hurricane shutters, however, some on govt buildings were not up to standard, and his team was currently working on that. Other relevant agencies like Social Services, also reported in. Nickal Symonette, department head, outlined the department’s activities, before, during and after a storm, including shelter preparation. She detailed that Eleuthera has twenty-three shelters, with nine in North Eleuthera, five in
South Eleuthera, six in Central Eleuthera and three in Harbour Island. “We have a challenge securing additional shelters in certain areas, as many churches are refusing to be shelters, because they don’t want their facilities to get damaged or trashed, as some have been left in a mess in the past - those are some of the complaints we have been getting,” she shared. She highlighted the fact that because of pandemic restrictions and health measures, all shelters in The Eleutheras had been ‘scaled down’ in terms of capacity. She also stressed the importance of each agency being fully aware of their ‘emergency support functions’, especially following a storm, during the assessment stage - each agency knowing their specific roles - as well as before the storm, and during the storm - to avoid duplication and increase efficiency, especially in light of limited manpower on the island. Mrs. Symonette outlined some of the key roles of Social Services, including food P43 distribution, and the prep-
2021,
Aug/Sept
Lo c a l
Page. 42 aration of shelter management kits. “During these times we work with everybody - as a unit we have to stick together, because if we don’t behave as a unit, we will fail,” she said. A robust question and answer session between the agencies followed, highlighting concerns about the possibility of shelter space shortages in the event of a major storm, where more people may have the need to evacuate their residences. Social Services estimates put the shelter capacity at only about 500 people being able to be sheltered with the current available facilities for the entire Harbour Island and mainland Eleuthera. RBPF Officer in Charge of the Eleuthera Division, Brian Rolle wrapped up the session, highlighting some of the vivid experiences he had within the command center in Grand Bahama during the passage of hurricane Dorian in 2019, and some of the lessons learned. He also highlighted the vital importance of agencies being fully aware of who the people were in all of the different communities on the island, taking Abaco’s experience as an
example - where many people went missing and unaccounted for. “You never know what a storm can do until you go through one as raging as Dorian. My wish is that we will all be prepared and take a proactive approach.”
The Eleutheran
43
44 www. EleutheraNews . com
n at i o n a l
Aug/Sept, 2021
August a Deadly Month for COVID-19 in the Bahamas Pfizer) were administered at centers located in The Bluff, Harbour Island, Spanish Wells, Palmetto Point, Hatchet Bay, and Rock Sound. Before the most recent vaccine rollout on Eleuthera - 2,228 1st doses of the Astrazeneca vaccine had been distributed on the island, and 1,353 2nd doses had been given. After the September campaign, those numbers jumped to 4,058 1st doses, and 1,921 2nd doses distributed across The Eleutheras since vaccinations began in April 2021. Ministry of Health officials, on Wednesday, September 1st, 2021, confirmed that Eleuthera had a total of 34 active cases of COVID-19 on island (0 in Spanish Wells, 6 in North Eleuthera, 7 in Harbour Island, 7 in Central Eleuthera, and 14 in South Eleuthera). 162 people in Eleuthera were said to be in quarantine (0 in Spanish Wells, 47 in North Eleuthera, 23 in Harbour Island, 27 in Central Eleuthera, and 65 in South Eleuthera). 10 people were said to be under investigation (PUI’s) - (0 in Spanish Wells, 3 in North Eleuthera, 1 in Harbour Island, 4 in Central Eleuthera, and 2 in South Eleuthera). Twelve (12) deaths in Eleuthera, since the beginning of the pandemic have been related to COVID-19 (0 in Spanish Wells, 4 in North Eleuthera, 2 in Harbour Island, 3 in Central Eleuthera, and 3 in South Eleuthera). Officials at the Ministry of Health reminded, “We encourage all to remain disciplined, continue to apply the COVID-19 health precautions and to get vaccinated at the first opportunity. Appointments are available at vax. gov.bs.”
Day two of vaccinations on September 2nd in Eleuthera at the Palmetto Point center. Volunteers commented that the process was organized and orderly.
On July 30th, 2021, the reported national death toll from COVID-19 stood at 287 people - recorded since the beginning of the pandemic in March of 2020. Records were broken on Friday, August 6th, 2021, when the Bahamas Ministry of Health reported the highest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases ever reported in The Bahamas in one day, with two hundred and twentyeight (228) cases. Eleuthera’s daily case number was also the highest reported for the island in one day, at twenty (20). The Ministry commented then, “This number is a historical one... The numbers seen today demonstrate that the virus that causes COVID-19 is ever-present and continues to be
transmitted in the country. It should be noted that a total of 499 cases were reported between the 1st - 5th August, 2021. For the same time during the week, 25th – 29th July, 2021, 558 confirmed cases were reported. The Bahamas went on, during the month of August 2021, to see a staggering 42% increase in the number of COVID deaths in just four weeks, with an additional 121 reported COVID-19 deaths. The first four days in September, quickly added yet another 31 victims - bringing the country’s Coronavirus death toll to 439 people. Vaccination teams were again in Eleuthera during the first week in September, from September 1st to 2nd, 2021. 1st and 2nd doses of the three available coronavirus vaccines (Astrazeneca, Johnson & Johnson, and
“We will get through this together if we remember to: 1. keep private social gatherings restricted to 5 or fewer persons, provided they are vaccinated; 2. stay home if you don’t feel well; 3. wear a mask outside of your home; 4. regularly wash your hands; 5. remain socially distant; and 6. avoid large gatherings at restaurants, workplaces, churches, celebrations and family reunions.” On Saturday, September 4th, one hundred and seventy-five (175) people were reported as being hospitalized with COVID-19 in the country. Fifteen (15) coronavirus deaths were reported on the day. The total number of COVID-19 deaths in The Bahamas stood at four hundred and thirty-nine (439).
2021,
Aug/Sept
n at i o n al
The Eleutheran
45
BREA elects new board, encourages foreign investment, but vows to protect licensed Bahamian brokers, agents
The recently-elected BREA board pictured above includes, Christine Wallace-Whitfield, President, Sally Hutcheson, Vice President, Sara Callender, Treasurer, Cara Christie, Secretary, and Directors Brian Austin, Tracey Barone, James Bernard, Nikki Boeuf, Carlyle Campbell, John Constantakis, Kim Kikivarakis-Dillett, Helen Dupuch, June Fife, Mike Lightbourn and Kimra Sweeting. The Bahamas Real Estate Association (BREA), the country’s largest legislated professional association, recently elected a new board of directors, re-elected its president for a record fifth term and vowed to amend what it called ‘loopholes’ in a 26-year-old Act it said failed to sufficiently protect the rights of licensed Bahamians. The new executives introduced a three-pronged strategic plan they dubbed “determination on steroids” to take the industry to new heights. “We are fired up and ready to resume our legislative and industry standards agenda,” said Christine Wallace Whitfield, who was elected president for a record fifth consecutive term. “We have three high priority goals and I have every confidence that with the energy and determination on steroids of this new board, 2021 will be the year we will achieve these goals that will take this industry to new heights.” Top priority, she said, is protecting licensed Bahamian BREA agents. “That means amending the current legislation and closing the loopholes,” she said, describing the 26-year-old Real Estate Act of 1995 as outdated. “The industry has changed dramatically since that bill was enacted and the Act needs to be updated to keep pace,” said Wallace-Whitfield. “We have experienced a huge increase in foreign investment but at the same time, we have witnessed a spike in foreign agents doing business here, accompanying or meeting someone they know, engaging in property transactions. The law needs to be amended to make this a criminal charge with fixed penalties and fines. I would not dare go to Florida and show someone’s property and expect to earn a commission. The only reason people come here to do it is because they can. They can get away with it and make tens of thousands of dollars in a single trans-
action. All we are asking is that when a foreign agent comes here, he or she works with a local BREA-licensed agency whose associates know the market, the law, the taxes and requirements for closing. Buying property, especially for someone buying in a foreign country, is not like buying a car or a set of tools. Local knowledge is critical and the BREA licensing ensures that our agents are knowledgeable which protects the reputation of The Bahamas, too.” During the pandemic with The Bahamas being seen as a safe haven, Wallace-Whitfield said BREA saw a spike in the number of foreign appraisers, also operating illegally. Under the Act, the only exclusions to using a BREAlicensed agent are a peer-to-peer sale, that is, a property owner selling directly to a buyer, or a developer employing a resident agent for the sale of property or a unit in that development. According to Wallace-Whitfield, some of those agents, especially in the Family Islands, are reaching further into surrounding communities along with handling re-sales. Though both practices are illegal, she noted, but without stated penalties, there is little enforcement except by the ethics committee reporting to local Immigration officials and hoping action will follow. One of only a handful of BREA members to hold the distinction of Realtor®, Wallace-Whitfield said BREA does not want to discourage foreign investment. “We just want them to play by the same rules that Bahamian developers do,” she said. While much of BREA’s energy between now and May 2022 will focus on protecting licensed agents, the second goal will demand more of them. “We want to step up our service level, ensure that we are competent in all the technology people depend
upon and we want to create a culture of unmatched customer care,” she said. “To do that, we will seek to require more in the way of continuing education to maintain certification and licensing.” The third goal is one BREA has been pursuing for years – a seat at the table when decisions impacting the real estate industry are being considered. “They (legislators or advisors in the Attorney-General’s office) come to us the day before, the day of or the day after,” said Wallace-Whitfield. “We need a seat at the table when discussions begin, not after decisions are made. We are more than 700-strong, hard-working professionals who take our positions seriously and the work we do is a major contributor to the economic engine of The Bahamas. Our members and our organization will be treated with respect.” Working with the president to achieve those goals will be the recently-elected board including Sally Hutcheson, Vice President, Sara Callender, Treasurer, Cara Christie, Secretary, and Directors Brian Austin, Tracey Barone, James Bernard, Nikki Boeuf, Carlyle Campbell, John Constantakis, Kim Kikivarakis-Dillett, Helen Dupuch, June Fife, Mike Lightbourn and Kimra Sweeting. --After more than a year of COVID-imposed working conditions, BREA members held their 2021 annual general meeting by Zoom in May.
46 www. EleutheraNews . com
loc al +p lu s
Aug/Sept, 2021
LETTER to the Editor: Tribute To Ethan Fairweather
It’s not easy to give a tribute to someone you love. Someone who brought you so much joy, happiness and laughter. My eyes are filled with tears as I type because this is a day I never dreamed of. This is a day that breaks my heart having to write a farewell tribute to “our brother from another mother”. Ethan came to our office three years ago. He instantly became the father of the office. We were his pineapple princesses, and he took care of us. Ethan was the master of his job. He worked over and beyond the call of duty and he loved what he did. He was a true tourism ambassador and took delight in singing to our guests as he ensured that their first and last impression of the North Eleuthera Airport was a lasting one. Our office was not only a working environment but a family environment. Everyday Ethan would bring mangoes, dillies, plums or whatever fruit in season just for his pineapple princesses. I remember him saying he has never worked with a team that showed so much love for each other. He cried that day as he told us that he was so happy to be home and that he loved us. He thanked us for treating him as a part of the team and a member of our family. Little did he know, was that he helped to bridge our team. He
Handy Tip! DIY Painting & Purse Making Tips Each month, learn a bit about do-it-yourself painted designs and purse making with valuable tips and expert advice: TIP 13. If you are unable to open a shop to sell your products, consider placing your wares on consignment with a trustworthy shop vendor. Your prices should be structured in a way to allow the merchant to also benefit from sales made. Be sure to present your best products for sale. You will also need to do your part in making the public aware of where your products can be purchased.
prayed, he sang, he evangelized and brought the presence of God with him every time he entered the door. Our office is broken, sad but we lean on each other, and we trust the will of The Lord. Ethan made an impact in our lives that will last forever. He welcomed the guests at the office with his rhymes and special greetings. I remember saying one day, “Ethan if I hear you rhyming again today, I am going to scream”. But today I would give anything to hear him say, “ I’ll tell you what the farmer said to the potato. I’m gonna plant you now and dig you later”. I don’t know who is going to fill his shoes. Who will fix the stuff around the office? Who will bring us coffee in the morning from Starbucks? Who will bring the fruits in their season? Who will greet the guests with the special rhymes? There is truly a void. I wish I could see him dancing or hear him singing. I wish I could hear him say “sit down with you short self” even though I was much taller than him. Ethan was just simply the best and most authentic ambassador for The Ministry of Tourism. We have truly lost a brother, a friend, a colleague. Ethan, we love you so much and will miss you. You worked so hard so now take your rest. Your voice was needed in the heavenly choir. Until we meet again! Rest in Jesus! Your pineapple princesses, June, Nita, Myckell, Ivana, Evelyn (Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation Harbour Island Tourist Office Team) --------
Visit us online at: www.PaintWithTexture.com and Watch Our Free Video Tutorials.
June Cartwright-Dean Coordinator Family Island Development Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation Harbour Island Tourist Office Dunmore Town, Eleuthera General Delivery, BS Phone:1-242-333-2621, Ext. 4460
2021,
loc a l +p lu s
Aug/Sept
Page. 17
47
Eleuthera Roads
excellent work. “We are hoping that they will expand their business because of the quality work they are doing so we can have them working in other islands in the years to come. I really believe that we need more companies that are doing the type of work they are doing. I’m hoping that they will be able to expand with the hot mix asphalt. We’re looking forward to seeing Bahamian companies expand. That’s important to this Ministry.” Approximately 10 residents of Hatchet Bay were to be hired to carry out work on the project which began the previous Monday and is expected to be completed in 6 months. The contract includes: • verge clearance • carriageway scarification • reworking of existing base • some pot hole patching and repair, • some replacement of limerock base, • installation of a double coat of prime pea rock and sand seal • centre and edge lining
Page. 35
The Eleutheran
• installation of street names and stop signs, junction stop bars and cat’s eyes The MOPW also issued two contracts for repair of settlement roads in Tarpum Bay, South Eleuthera and Governor’s Harbour, Central Eleuthera. The contractors were not present at the ceremony due to COVID-19 restrictions. Peter Kemp of Nu View Construction Company Ltd received a contract for $880,000 for repair of roads in Tarpum Bay and a contract for $1,557,629.61 for repairs of roads in Governor’s Harbour. The work is expected to be completed in 6 months. Director Roach said the road repairs had already begun in Tarpum Bay and were progressing very well. “Nu View is an experienced Eleuthera-based company and has done a number of road paving works projects for the MOPW over the years,” she added. By Kathryn Campbell
education conversation
to write national exams. So, in last year’s BGCSE’s, we did not have as many of the A’s, B’s and C’s, as we had the previous year or this year. That’s a part of what happened last year. After commenting on the overall national exam performances at schools across the district, Mr. Culmer added that an area for special focus in the upcoming year would be fostering critical thinking and writing. “Those are areas where we need to put some work in, and put greater emphasis on,” he stated. “We will be even more intentional this year, making sure that we are reinforcing those skills.” With regard to some of the changes in administration across high schools on the island, Mr. Culmer explained that at Central Eleuthera High School (CEHS), after principal Galanis’ retirement in June 2021, she was replaced by Mr. Kevin Hepburn (who had in the past served as vice principal at CEHS, as well as principal at the Harbour Island All Age School - HIAAS, and most
PHOTO CAPTION: Elton Symonette, President of Quick Fix Construction, signs a contract for roadworks in Hatchet Bay. Cora Bain-Colebrook is also pictured signing as Public Works Minister the Hon. Desmond Bannister looks on. (BIS photos/Patrick Hanna)
recently, principal at the North Eleuthera High School - NEHS). DSE Culmer commented, that principal Hepburn would be very familiar with the both the culture and the parental community at the school. At North Eleuthera High School, principal Chardel Brown-Gibson joined the team, moving from the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School (SGPAAS), where she served as principal for six years. According to Culmer, Brown-Gibson was a former teacher, as well as a former vice principal at NEHS, so she would also be very familiar with her new posting. Ms. Navidia Mills, a principal coming in from West End Primary School (Grand Bahama) is now in Spanish Wells at the Samuel Guy Pinder All Age School. “She is both a veteran educator and administrator,” commented Mr. Culmer, about pricipal Mills, adding that she was also surrounded by a dynamic team at SGPAAS. According to DSE Culmer, there were no other administrative changes within the Eleuthera district.
Finally, when asked about the readiness of campuses on island for the return of students, in reference to school repairs that are historically completed over the summer break, Mr. Culmer informed, “School repairs are a process. It starts in New Providence and then goes to the other islands. It begins with an assessment of the needs in a school, generally in March - then contracts are dealt with and put together. Contractors [For Eleuthera] have been identified, and they have been asked to come into our offices to pick up their contracts. Then to go to the sites and do an assessment to see if what we are asking is all
Phone | WHATSAPP | TEXT
1 (242) 422-9350 email / website services@TheEleutheran.com editor@TheEleutheran.com www.EleutheraNews.com
that needs to be done - to have fair knowledge before they sign on the dotted line. What we have also discovered this year with the contracts, is that between the time we lined up our contracts, which includes specifically priced materials - we’ve seen, for example, that a bundle of shingles has nearly doubled in price, between July 2021 when we were pricing, and now - as well as plywood - that has also doubled in price since initial assessments. So, moving past that, the contracts have been identified. They are now out, and in short order we should move to mobilization.”
fax/landline
1 (242) 332-2993 The Eleutheran, P. O. Box EL-25166, Governor’s Harbour Eleuthera, The Bahamas.