Rotary Lucaya and Guardian Fencing Help Secure The Children's Home Premises

Freeport, Grand Bahama – Thanks to the efforts of Rotary Lucaya the Grand Bahama Children’s Home is a little safer this year. Recently the home had been plagued with trespassers and the Children’s Home management was concerned about strangers entering the peaceful shelter for abused, abandoned and neglected children.

“We were rather desperate for more security” said Jean Hivert, GBCH Executive Board Treasurer, “we are so very grateful to Rotary and Guardian Fencing for helping us secure our premises and making us feel safe again.” The home is now completely fenced in, with Guardian Fencing putting up fencing and movable gates in the front of the home.


“These children are our future, we need to keep them secure like all our own children,” noted President of Rotary Lucaya, Ja-Ronn Jones. ”Thanks to corporate donations within our club we were able to assist the home and Guardian Fencing was quick to install the much needed security.”

The home which is located in Tripp Lane known as the “Back of Town” houses anywhere from 18 to 25 children in 4 separate premises. “We want our children to feel safe here,” noted Sarah Kirkby, GBCH Executive Board, “they deserve the same freedom to ride their bikes, play with a ball and just be outside like any other child. Thanks to Rotary and Richard Bates they are now!”

Persons interested in helping the home can contact 352-6076 or email them via their website www.gbchildrenshome.com. The home is always in need to volunteers and donations to meet their daily needs.

Miss Grand Bahama Beauty Pageant Organization launches website

CLICK HERE: Screen capture of the new Miss Grand Bahama Beauty Pageant website. 

Freeport, Bahamas - The Miss Grand Bahama Beauty Pageant Organization is pleased to announce the launch of their official website at www.missgrandbahamabeautypageant.org where you can find photos and information on all the contestants, judges and scheduled events that lead up to the big day of May 16th when one of the eight young beauties will take the crown from reigning queen Nikie Severe. The beauty pageant will once again be held at the Hilton Outten Convention Center.


The new hopefuls are Celina McCardy ( McCardy Contruction ) , Tempest Stubbs ( Midway Electronics) , Shequera King ( SkyBahamas) , Cindy Lewis ( Grand Bahama Bone Fishing Company) , Remi Henderson ( Syngad Services) , McKishine Wilmott ( Grand Bahama Tank Cleaning ) , Valdena Bain ( DJ's Construction) , and Rayne Armbrister ( Traffic Bahamas ).

Softball legends kick up a ‘lil dust’ in classic contest

SOME OF THE LEGENDS who played in the Celebrity Classic this past weekend, standing from left to right, Charlie, Churchill, Steve, ‘Muggy’, Leslie, Lorrie, Orville, Edney, Loretta, Suezette, Nell, Cash, and Reggie Dean. Kneeling left to right, Percy ‘Instigator’ Albury, Eugene Thompson, and Dennis Curry. Missing from the photo are Bernie Davis and Leona Roach.

Freeport, Grand Bahama- APRIL 21, 2010…What many thought would be an exhibition in ‘how not to play the game of softball’ turned into a clinic by the Legends of the sport as they showcased their waning talents in the Celebrity Classic this past weekend at the softball diamond of the Grand Bahama Sports Complex.

Yvonne Lockhart, coordinator of the event on behalf of the softball discipline of the Legacy Baseball/Softball Association said to the delight of the ecstatic fans the game featured players turning double plays, making great catches, and showing good hitting, forcing fans to asked for a rematch.

The Legends said they need a year’s notice before they do it again, said Ms. Lockhart. Reports are that the press is now issuing a challenge to the winning legends team.

EASY AS SUNDAY MORNING says Leslie Minus as she makes and out while playing third base in the Legends game. 

The Legends, led by ISF Hall of Famer Churchill Tener-Knowles and managed by Orville Saint demonstrated there ability to still compete with good defense and offense as they earned a lopsided win over the team led by Leona Roach. Legends featured in the game included:

* Former National Team infielder Nell Russell, still slick with the glove and deadly with her bat;
* Renowned infielders Suezette Basden, now coaching in Legacy’s Tee Ball Division, who is still smooth with the glove, and Margaret ‘Muggy’ Dames, whose aggressive infield plays, potent bat, and timely base running and slides to home plate brought the fans to their feet;
* Inspector Loretta Mackey, who showed that she can still patrol the outfield and make great catches;
* Percy ‘Instigator’ Albury’s prowess as a catcher of yesteryear was again on display as he controlled the home plate area nabbing runners attempting to score.
* Orville Saint looked impressive in his return to the playing centerfield where he showed that he still had it, as did Eugene Thompson, Leslie Minus, Lorrie Pratt, Edney Sherman, Dennis Curry, Charlie Johnson, and Steve Burrows.

Others participating were Charlie Bain, Reggie Dean, and Freddie Cash.

 KICKIN’ UP A LITTLE DUST. ISF Hall of Famer Churchill Tener-Knowles tries hitting from the left side and was able to kick-up a little dust during this time at bat.

“This event was designed to assist our softball youth programme,” said Ms. Lockhart, who noted that this summer some 20-24 players from the Legacy girls softball programme are expected to travel to a week long softball camp in Lakeland, Florida sponsored by Nike.

“We’re pleased that these softball legends took the time to come out and participate and at the same time assist the youngsters who will travel to the camp this summer,” she said.

BAHAMAS NATIONAL TRUST CELEBRATES ART AND NATURE FOR EARTH DAY’S 40 TH ANNIVERSARY AT THE RAND NATURE CENTRE IN FREEPORT.

It has been forty years since the US Senator Gaylord Nelson founded Earth Day to promote respect for life on the planet.
Forty years later with Earth Day Network now in the picture, Earth Day 2010 promises to be the largest Earth Day to date, with over a billion people participating in activities worldwide in thousands of places like Kiev, Ukraine; Caracas, Venezuela; Tuvalu; Manila, Philippines; Togo; Madrid, Spain; London, New York and Grand Bahama.


And what will people be doing this April 22, 2010. Earth Day is usually celebrated with outdoor performances, where individuals or groups perform acts of service to earth, planting trees, picking up roadside trash, conducting recycling and conservation programs, petitioning governments for stronger action to important environmental issues.
In Gabon, Africa, it is said that a talking drum chain will travel from village to village encouraging action for growing environmental 

On Grand Bahama we may not see a talking drum traveling about but the Bahamas National Trust is celebrating Earth Day with an invitation to the community to enjoy ART AND NATURE.
From Thursday April 22nd to Saturday April 24th the Grand Bahama Branch of the Bahamas National Trust is celebrating the 40th anniversary of Earth Day.
Thursday April 22nd, the Glory Banks Art Gallery hosts the Grand Bahama Artists Association Earth Day 2010 Exhibition with artworks that pay tribute to Planet Earth. Special guest for Earth Day 2010 is “Environmentally Conscious” artist, Del Foxton who will showcase her contemporary artworks created from her handmade paper that uses local vegetation. 

Saturday, April 24th at 10.30 am join BNT administrator, Cecilia Bodie, on a nature walk through winding trails that feature native plants and birding sites. Established in 1992, the Rand Nature Centre comprises 100 acres of natural beauty in the heart of downtown Freeport. Come nurture your soul the Earth Day on the trail of this beautiful oasis located on East Settlers Way just across from the Catholic High School.
Providing social commentary has long been the role of art and artists. So to mark Earth Day’s 40th anniversary, the Rand Nature Centre Art Gallery is featuring artworks from the members of the Grand Bahama Artists Association. These talented members of our community are showcasing an eclectic collection of works in a variety of mediums in appreciation for the inspiration our beautiful Earth provides. 

Del Foxton says that her environmentally friendly Artistry in Handmade Paper began as a result of her belief in the saying that if you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem. When Del saw the opportunity to use discards from her surroundings, Artistry in Handmade Paper took flight.

At her hand papermaking studio and gallery she creates handmade paper for her artworks following the same process as that of the Chinese who first made paper in 105 AD. Del travels to meet and study with International Hand Papermakers and Paper artists to expand and refine her artistry. The papermaking process is simple yet complex but she is fortunate that on Grand Bahama to have year round material from local vegetation to make paper that becomes her canvas and painting medium.
Artistry in Handmade Paper is Del’s passion and she is delighted that in her small way she can honour the
environment while indulging her passion Earth Day and every day. 

Opening hours at the Rand Nature Centre and the Glory Banks Gallery are Monday to Friday hours of 8. 30 to 4.30 pm and on Saturday April 24th from 10 to 4 pm. To learn more about the GBAA Art Exhibition please call 353 4333 or 727 4333.

GBPA Joins List of Red Rose HIV/AIDS Awareness Executive Partners

GBPA continues its tradition of supporting the Grand Bahama AIDS Awareness Committee and joins the list of Executive Sponsors for this year’s annual cocktail reception entitled, “A Black and White Affair In Paradise”. GBPA’s Director of Community Relations, Mrs. Geneva Rutherford (left) presented a cheque on behalf of The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited in support of the fight against HIV/AIDS on Grand Bahama Island to Red Rose Ball Committee Chair Member Ms. Minerva Kemp.

 

Freeport, Bahamas – Despite the difficult economic climate, The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) without hesitation, joined the list of executive sponsors and continued its tradition of supporting the fight against HIV/AIDS on Grand Bahama Island.

HIV and AIDS is the most devastating health crisis of our time. Representing GBPA Executives, GBPA’s Director of Community Relations, Geneva Rutherford, expressed her thoughts on the issue, “Ignorance and illiteracy are major contributing factors to the spread of the disease. By increasing awareness and broadening educational avenues, time will soon reveal that we can win the war against HIV and AIDS.”

This year’s annual cocktail reception, “A Black & White Affair in Paradise” will be held in the Arcade at the International Bazaar on Saturday, 15th May. Red Rose Ball committee chair member Minerva Kemp accepted the cheque on behalf of the committee and shared these words about the event, “We are excited that this year’s annual cocktail reception will be held in the Arcade of the Bazaar. This will help in its revitalization. We encourage the community to take a stand in helping us in the fight against HIV/AIDS on Grand Bahama Island and thank The Grand Bahama Port Authority for joining our executive partners in support of this cause. This much needed cheque will be used to fuel the existing educational programmes which raise awareness and improve the knowledge and understanding of the virus.

According to amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research an international non-profit organization founded in 1985 and dedicated to ending the global AIDS epidemic through innovative research, has estimated that half of all the people in the world with HIV have not been tested and do not know they are carrying the virus. amfAR confirms that, “since the beginning of the epidemic, AIDS has replaced malaria and tuberculosis as the world’s deadliest infectious disease among adults and as a consequence many children have been orphaned by the epidemic.” The Grand Bahama Port Authority would like to encourage all corporate citizens, to join them and their support of raising awareness of HIV/AIDS on Grand Bahama Island. GBPA encourages the community to please call a member of the Red Rose Ball Committee to make your pledge of support as we join forces to combat this epidemic.

3rd Annual Bahamas Orvis Pro-Am Bonefish Classic Attracts Anglers to Grand Bahama Island

Image courtesy of www.garyengbergoutdoors.com

GRAND BAHAMA ISLAND - April 16, 2010 - As part of the ongoing partnership with The Orvis Company, The Islands Of The Bahamas will host the third annual Bahamas Orvis Pro-Am Bonefish Classic from Oct. 10-16, 2010, on Grand Bahama Island. Anglers of all skill levels are invited to participate in bonefish research, educational seminars, guided flats fishing and special events with some of the world’s most knowledgeable professional fly anglers.

Amateur participants will be paired with a diverse group of professionals including Aaron Adams of The Bonefish and Tarpon Trust; professional photographer and fishing personality R. Valentine “Val” Atkinson; Orvis Fly Fishing School instructor Truel Meyers; and additional experts from The Orvis Company. While enjoying a day of fly fishing is always the top priority, Pro-Am participants will also collect fin clippings for genetic analysis and tag fish to learn more about life cycles and migration patterns in the region.
“The flats of Grand Bahama Island offer top-notch bonefishing all year round,” said Jason Elkins, fly fishing travel manager, The Orvis Company. “It’s The Bahamas’ mix of teeming fisheries, dedication to preservation and varied activities for traveling companions that make it unique.”

Image courtesy of www.garyengbergoutdoors.com

Proceeds from the event will support Bonefish and Tarpon Trust’s research and educational programs, ensuring that bonefish will be plentiful throughout The Bahamas flats for years to come. To participate in the event, visit www.Orvis.com/Vacations or call 800.547.4322.

“Since the days of Ernest Hemingway, fishermen have flocked to The Bahamas for the biggest, most plentiful catches and of course, the best fish stories,” said Vernice Walkine, director-general of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism. “Pro-Am participants will find that The Bahamas’ dedication to preserving its fishing resources is just as important today as it was in Hemingway’s time.”

Life in the 700 Islands Of The Bahamas just keeps getting better. And it’s easy to see why. With world-class diving and fishing, miles of picture perfect beaches, and gorgeous turquoise water, visitors have the opportunity to do everything or nothing at all. From Exuma, Eleuthera and Abaco to exciting Nassau/Paradise Island and Grand Bahama Island, this tropical paradise is as culturally diverse as it is vibrantly beautiful. For more information on travel packages, activities and accommodations, call 1-800-Bahamas or visit www.Bahamas.com.. Join us at www.Facebook.com/Bahamas or http://Twitter.com/VisitTheBahamas. To purchase one-of-a-kind items and mementos from The Bahamas, visit www.eshopbahamas.com. read the original article HERE

GBPA sale 'could raise interest in island's real estate'

By CHESTER ROBARDS

Tribune Business Reporter



A RESURGENCE of interest in Grand Bahama real estate could be directly tied to the sale of the Grand Bahama Port Authority, some industry experts told Tribune Business yesterday. Meanwhile, the island saw a rise in interest in property during the first quarter of 2010.

Christine Wallace-Whitfield, who is a presidential hopeful for the Grand Bahama chapter of the Bahamas Real Estate Association (BREA), said the sale of the GBPA could raise investor interest on the island by increasing their confidence in the future of the island.

Ms Wallace-Whitfield, who is also a broker and director at the Lanelle Philips Real Estate, added that investors often diligently research markets in which they intend to invest and often look for stable and strong economies as a basis for their decision.

The GBPA with the Freeport Container Port has been the backbone of Grand Bahama's development and was recently engaged in a long shareholder battle that recently came to an out-of-court settlement.

The Hayward and St George families agreed that they each owned a 50 per cent stake in the GBPA and have agreed to come together to jointly find a buyer for the important conglomerate.

It was thought that the resident Grand Bahama firm based in China, Hutchison Whampoa, was the lead interested investor in acquiring the GBPA. However, reports have surfaced that the investment arm of the Singapore government, Temasek, may have an interest in the Port Authority as well.

President of BREA, Patty Birch, agreed that the sale of the GBPA could produce an increase in activity in Grand Bahama, heightening interest in the many beautiful beachfront and canal properties for sale on the island.

It has also been considered that with increased interest in the Grand Bahama market, there could come a spike in real estate prices. However, Ms Birch said she does not know that to be true.

"I don't know whether they will go through the ceiling, but there will be increased activity in Freeport," she said.

Ms Wallace-Whitfield said the first quarter of 2010 looked hopeful and she expects to see a move from the lull late last year in the market. She added that she would like to see more Bahamians investing in Grand Bahama.

"It is starting to pick up," she said. "It's not quite there yet, but we still have a little ways to go. The signs are hopeful and the future is looking very good."

Who will be the next Supermodel of the Bahamas? By The Bahamas Weekly

Nassau, Bahamas - Supermodel of the Bahamas 2010 has become THE major Bahamian model search for The Bahamas and this year the event is bigger and better than ever, and will include 11 finalists from the family islands of Eleuthera, Grand Bahama, and the Abacos. A preliminary event took place in Nassau in March where the contestants participated in a busy weekend of workshops, photo shoots, and video interviews.

Top Male model bobby Roache

The schedule was exhausting, giving the contestants a realistic feel of the life of a model, experiencing a lot of hard work and not all glitz and glamour; however the contestants went home ready and enthusiastic to prepare for their biggest day yet to come, that being the final competition on Sunday, April 25th at the British Colonial Hilton Governor's Ballroom at 8pm.

"This group of 21 finalists have been working hard, and with the expertise of our visiting judges I'm looking forward to our completion, because the Supermodel of the Bahamas title winners have already been recruited to appear in a runway show in New York in September of this year ," said founder and director of Supermodel of the Bahamas, Mr. OilinSha Coakley. "The Bahamas is being seen more and more in the global fashion scene and this event will help get our faces out there. I am proud to say that last year's winners have participated in New York Fashion Week, Islands of the World Fashion Week, and others runway shows. There's a bright future for The Bahamas."
Supermodel of the Bahamas is similar to America's Next Top Model in that it discovers new faces, most of whom have never modeled before. The candidates are then trained and pushed to perform, whereupon it becomes obvious after photo shoots, runway shows, and interviews, who is made for the life of a model.

The 21 final contestants are Peandra Knowles, Brittney Weech, Angel Rolle, Garrett Bowleg, Sonji Simmons, Sinardo Deleveaux, Delvonae Beckles and Kourtni Pinder of Grand Bahama Island; Christi Cadet of Eleuthera; Priska Pascal and Allita Bain of the Abacos; and Miguel Wright, Andreanique Johnson, Kieasha Adderley, Travante’ Russell, Kenresa Pickering, Wayne Mackey, Carnesha Smith, Reashawn Davis, Keturah Cartwright, and Gabriella Moss of New Providence.

Bobby Roache Performing with Beyonce

Leading up to the finals, a grand Float Parade will take place on April 24th featuring the garments of one of The Bahamas' top designer's, Mr. Cedric Bernard. The contestants will parade through the streets via motorcade from 12noon until 4pm, starting at RM Bailey Park, along Marathon to Wolff Road, past COB, around JFK, down the Cable Beach strip and finishing at the British Colonial Hilton.

Once at the Hilton, the contestants say farewell to the public and quickly ready themselves for their all important interviews with the international judges. This year the event is proud to be hosting Beth Sobol, founder of Miami Fashion Week; Audrey Adams, international radio talk-show host and former Wilheminah model; Kendell Monroe, the former manager of the late Michael Jackson; and Natalee Duhaney, international designer out of New York.
When the lights come up, and the contestants hit the runway on Sunday they will have their final opportunity to prove themselves capable of becoming a supermodel. One lucky but worthy young man, young woman, and child will represent The Bahamas internationally and help increase the awareness of the authentic and unique culture and beauty we embody.

Damian Humes, founder of The Street Team Magazine will co-host the show with international supermodel Bobby Roache, of LA Models and who is featured in many well-known ad campaigns (Mexx, Sean John, Coors Light, South Pole, Camel Actives, Bronx) and has appeared in Beyonce's music video Irreplaceable. *Bobby will be at the Juke Box at the Mall at Marathon on Saturday, April 24th from 12noon to 3pm to sign autographs .

Audience members of Sunday's show will be treated to live performances by Bahamian recording artist Julien who will sing his hit song, Believe and the LA-based, but Bahamian born international recording artist, Brettina will sing her world-wide released hit song, Bahamian Girl. Both of these artists will also be at the Mall at Marathon on Saturday the 24th with Bobby Roache, so come out and take the opportunity to meet all three of them.
Supermodel of the Bahamas' overall title winners (one male and one female) will be awarded with cash and prizes worth $3000.00, a complete portfolio, representation with OilinSha’s Models, and will have the opportunity to compete in the “Top Model of the Universe” competition in Europe.

Directly after the "Supermodel of the Bahamas" (male and female), and the "Little Supermodel of the Bahamas” winners are announced, the event moves to Club Luna for an exciting after party.

Tickets for Sunday are on sale and going fast. Persons are encouraged to take advantage of the Buddy Rates (groups of 3) which offer gifts from local sponsors along with your purchase. Ticket location are The Juke Box, Mall at Marathon; Bally Total Fitness; and Deco Bay Shoes.

The show will later be released as a reality TV show to be featured again on JCN, and is being produced by the creative team of "The Street Team Magazine.TV"

Supermodel of the Bahamas would like to thank all the sponsors for their assistance in making this year's Supermodel of the Bahamas 2010 possible. Our sponsors are TheBahamasWeekly.com - Deco Bay shoe store - Bally Total Fitness - Hollis Cosmetics & Day Spa - The Street Team Media - JCN broadcasting network - Jennifer Marshall Mackey of 102.9FM - Bennigans - Commonwealth Fabrics - Out Back Steak House - British Colonial Hilton Hotel - Duncan's Imaging - Apex Awards - Bahamas Air - American Airlines, American Eagle - Jubulee Bath & Body - Basheeva Eve La Maison De Bash - Lyndah Wells Photography - Vaughn Scriven Photography - Kurtz Ritchy Photography - Kim Hanna of 100Jamz - Mrs. Angela Hilton - Marcia Coakley - Illya Tinker - Devron Pinder of the Street Team Magazine - Miami Fashion Week - Abaco Beach Resort - Cigatoo Inn Eleuthera - The International Bazaar, Freeport - Total Fitness Gym Shirley Street Plaza - Pinkk Suga Creations - Tenisha Erskin of Baha Gala Creations - Friends and Family.

Maria Goes Swimming With Pigs In The Bahamas

There was lots of excitement as “The Bachelor’s” Jason Mesnick, wife Molly and Access’ Maria Menounos had a swimming pig sighting in the middle of the Great Exuma waters in the Bahamas. What happened when Maria jumped in to join the critter?

Back to our regularly scheduled program.

A few of you may have been wondering why our blog hasn't been updated for about two weeks, the reason is that i was in Africa on vacation and had very bad internet connection. it's funny how in life you take a lot of things for granted, just assume that things will work seamlessly without any complication, and then boom, something happens or in my case nothing happens and you're a little isolated from the world.
Well I'm back now so please accept my sincerest apologies. We are now returning to our regularly scheduled program, sit back and enjoy...

Container port could be sued over tornado deaths

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

FREEPORT - The Freeport Container Port could face lawsuits following the tragic deaths of three workers when a tornado hit the port three weeks ago.

There are reports that a settlement may have been offered to the families of the men killed on March 29, a worker told The Tribune.

"I think some monies were offered to them, but I don't think they were happy with the offer," he said.

The Tribune has been unable to confirm the reports. Attempts were made to contact officials at the container port on Thursday.

The container port sustained extensive tornado damage which is expected to be well in the millions.

A gantry crane, which was acquired at a cost of $10 million, was toppled. The three men - Michael Young, 43, Cleveland Lowe, 49, and Shawn Saunders, 23 - were inside the crane doing maintenance work when it fell to the ground.

Four workers - Glen Bodie, Samantha Rolle, Rommel McIntosh and Sammy Swann - were also seriously injured.

The container port operations have been significantly affected as port officials and insurance adjusters continue to assess damage.

Meanwhile, workers are concerned about their safety at the port and the adherence of policies regarding operations during bad weather.

Although they have met with port officials to discuss their concerns, workers are still sceptical that their concerns will be taken seriously.

"We have been told that we must accept that our jobs are high risk," said an employee.

The Tribune made several attempts to reach Container Port officials for comment, however none of them returned calls before press time last night.

Excellent reviews for Garden of the Groves

Once again, tripadvisor.com popped up on my radar for its recent reviews from visitors to our Island.
This time they were reviewing the wonderful Gargen of the groves, here's a snippet of some of the reviews.
"This was a lovely out of the way place with an excellent tour guide, restaurant and gift shop.It was one of the most lovely places we saw in the Bahamas...."

"Erika was a wonderful guide. Much more than Flora and Fauna, there was also a walk through the rich history of the Bahamian people and culture...."

For the full original article click HERE

'Bahamas For Beginners' spolights German visitors

By NINA LAING

The Ministry of Tourism's (MOT) plans to increase international exposure for The Bahamas are proving successful, as was suggested by the scene at the Grand Bahama International Airport yesterday.

A delegation of 20 German natives arrived on island Tuesday as part of the "Bahamas for Beginners" sweepstakes to enjoy a four-day vacation courtesy of the MOT, Our Lucaya Beach and Golf Resort, Condor Airlines, and German radio station hr1.

The sweepstakes, which ran in Germany for 10 days between March and April, saw radio listeners participating in a Bahamas oriented treasure hunt for a chance to win an eight-day vacation to The Bahamas.

A total of 10,000 participants were narrowed down to 10 winners who, along with their respective guests, earned an island-hopping journey through the Baha-mas as the prize. The Bahamian experience began for the group in Nassau on April 9.

Betty Bethel, general manager of business development for MOT, said that the Ministry is always seeking to forge alliances with various countries and markets identified as business partners. This particular promotion, she said, was just one of the ways they go about doing this.

"It's a unique tool, it's actually a fun tool and a way to promote the islands of the Bahamas and to promote the services that we have direct from Germany into Nassau, then, of course with connecting opportunities to the various islands like Grand Bahama," Bethel said.

"So this was definitely a very creative way of getting the word out in the German market about the Bahamas and then to actually get persons from Germany here to experience some of the things that they may have done in the treasure hunt."

In addition to exposure, Bethel noted that the presence of the German visitors would bode well for the island's economy.

She pointed out that the visitors "are free to select any number of activities and tours to participate in" and it is expected that they will seize these opportunities, especially where water-related activities are concerned.

Anchorman for hr1 radio Lars-Henning Metz supported Bethel's belief when he noted that the station in Frankfurt, Germany has a wide following and, thus, thousands were exposed to the Bahamian promotion.

Metz explained that he was pleased with his first visit to The Bahamas and thought it important to encourage more Germans to take advantage of the flight offered by Condor for a similar experience.

"Condor and the Bahamian Tourist Office wanted to get more people to travel (to The Bahamas)," he said. "It will help, first, to promote the Bahamas. On our radio station, we have about 1,000,000 listeners each day, and this promotion was about 10 days long and the trailers were on-air three weeks long. So over a million people knew and heard the word 'Bahamas'."

Metz said that the "Baha-mas for Beginners" sweepstakes offered benefits for hr1 as well as The Bahamas.

Stations in Germany attract listeners by way of promotion, he said, and the recent promotion held by hr1 would boost their popularity as well as the tourist traffic into The Bahamas.

"The Germans, they are travelling a lot and we have to show them how sweet and nice the Bahamas is," he said. "The promotions to the Bahamas are very good because Germans are very interested in other countries and other cultures."

Bahamas' Sports Minister names new Assistant Director of Sports

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture the Hon Charles Maynard introduces the new Assistant Director for Sports in Grand Bahama, Steve Burrows, to the media on Thursday. Pictured from left: Mr Burrows; Mr Maynard; Archie Nairn, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture and Don Cornish, Administrator for the City of Freeport. (BIS photo/Simon Lewis) 

 By Simon Lewis

FREEPORT, Bahamas -- Steve Burrows, whose name is somewhat synonymous with sports on Grand Bahama Island, has been named Assistant Director of Sports in the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture with responsibility for Grand Bahama.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture the Hon Charles Maynard made the announcement on Thursday while in Grand Bahama to participate in the Junkanoo awards presentations for both the junior and senior categories.

Permanent Secretary, Archie Nairn and Administrator for the City of Freeport, Don Cornish joined Mr Maynard as he made the announcement.

The Minister revealed that Mr Burrows will be responsible for the day to day management of the Grand Bahama Sports Complex among many other duties, which include providing technical assistance for sporting events for public and private schools, sustaining the Ministry’s sports programs and assisting with the regulation of sports associations.

Mr Nairn explained that the Ministry expects great things from Mr Burrows who is no stranger to sports.

“His ability and his competence level will bring to the floor the kind of quality that we are expecting to see and to move forward with on the Island of Grand Bahama.

“And, this is not just for Freeport! Mr Burrows is going to be responsible for organizing and putting in place any number of activities that this Ministry is responsible for, and to work closely with the staff of our local office here in regards to putting on those kinds of activities for the benefit particularly for our young people,” he said.
Mr Nairn noted that Mr Burrows will travel to New Providence to gain further knowledge into the various facets in the Ministry.

More NEW HOPE for Grand Bahama

$600 Million project back on track! Monday, April 12, 2010, the Supreme Court ruled in favour of the Grand Bahama Yacht Club and it was taken out of receivership, giving this $600 million dollar project new hope! “"Some 18 months have now passed since this all started", noted Preben Olesen, CEO of GB Yacht Club. "It’s wonderful to be back in our offices and we are looking forward to a great future again in Grand Bahama.”

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama – On Monday, April 12, 2010, the Supreme Court ruled against the plaintiff and the Grand Bahama Yacht Club came out of receivership, giving this $600 million dollar project new hope!

“Some 18 months have now passed since this all started,” noted Preben Olesen, partner and CEO of GB Yacht Club.” It’s wonderful to be back in our offices and we are looking forward to a great future again in Grand Bahama.”

Olesen has now resumed control back of the company after winning a Supreme Court judgment. September 2009 Justice Estelle Gray-Evans rejected a bid by Gonzales, an investor, for a summary ruling in his company’s favor and Monday’s judgment called for the receivership order to be “set aside”. “Our first priority is to get the Ferry House restaurant back up and running and then the marina,” noted Olesen. “We have already begun contacting our corporate clients and are working now to regain some of the mega-yacht traffic we enjoyed before the court rulings.”

During the long ordeal Olesen concentrated on the Port Lucaya Marina property and kept faith that the $600 million project would get back on track. “Before this all started we had new orders for homes, dozens of long term leases on the marina slips and were finalising details on a commercial premises with a local bank. It is our hope that we can reconnect with clients and get back to where we were, which with any luck will mean we can re-employ some of the 70 staff who were laid off.”

Olesen is also pleased about Celebration Cruise Line, which now docks every other day in Freeport. He and his team are hoping to utilise the ship’s cargo service to ferry small boats with trailers to the island. This would allow boaters to avoid crossing the Atlantic, access to customs pre-clearance, and use of his marina for longer term stays. It would also mean increased generation of cruise permit fees for the government and hopefully more hotel stays and restaurant spending.

Though the New Hope Holdings Company has been winning their court battles slowly they were only ready to publicly announce their success after Monday’s judgment. “We’ve been steadily climbing out of this situation and we are very pleased to be nearing an end to it all. We would like to settle the remaining disputes and keep this positive hope for Grand Bahama going,” stated Olesen.

 GB Yacht Club looking to open Ferry House soon. 

The first priority for Grand Bahama Yacht Club is to get the Ferry House restaurant back up and running and then the marina. “Before this all started we had new orders for homes, dozens of long term leases on the marina slips and were finalising details on a commercial premises with a local bank," noted Olesen. " It is our hope that we can reconnect with clients and get back to where we were, which with any luck will mean we can re-employ some of the 70 staff who were laid off.”

Grand Bahama Yacht Club is a marina and private community featuring private homes, townhouses, condos and private residences valued at up to 12 million. The marina offers superior facilities in a classic setting of turn-of-the-century brick and coral walkways, mature shade trees, picturesque piers and cast-iron lanterns. The marina, with its concrete docks, is a safe haven for yachts of sizes up to 175 feet with 150 slips which can accommodate boats and yachts up to 175 ft. The Marina also has a yacht fuel dock, pool bar and grill open daily for lunch and dinner. For more information log on to: www.grandbahamayachtclub.com

Yesterday Freeport – Today The World

Scudamore outside his London office
 

 Freeport, Grand Bahama - The boss of one of the world’s fastest-growing sporting organisations has been honoured by Grand Bahama’s longest-established sports club.

Richard Scudamore, the chief executive of the UK’s English Premier League, was recognised for his contribution to the development of youth sport, particularly soccer, on the island.

He was made an honorary life member, one of only five, by the Freeport Rugby and Football Club which has hosted the island’s hugely-popular soccer camp for the past seven years.

For the first three of those years the Premier League was the major sponsor, providing former international players as coaches and general support, including authentic club uniforms for participants. Then when the sponsorship finished he arranged a donation of almost $100,000 to help build the extended sports pitches and training areas at the club’s Settlers Way site.

The latter has helped enormously in boys and girls soccer, particularly in the latter where almost 200 girls play every Saturday afternoon in season, and also in freeing up the original pitch for use in developing young people’s rugby, including the recent club high school initiative.

Scudamore, who was on Grand Bahama for the Easter holiday staying with friends, was given his award during a small ceremony at the clubhouse. Afterwards he revealed that Freeport had been a pioneer –what had been done here was so successful it has since been extended to 43 countries worldwide.

The league has developed into a truly worldwide organisation since Scudamore took it over in November 1999. Then it was UK-only. Now its matches are watched on TV by more than 700 million people in 211 countries and territories.

Its annual turnover is measured in the billions and, according to The Times newspaper of London, it is challenging the NBA to the title of the world’s first truly global sports league.

During his visit former UK and US newspaperman Scudamore inspected the new playing area which is currently being prepared for this year’s soccer camp which is being held there from June 21 to June 25.

It will be sure to be the best camp yet and already the finest group of coaches has been assembled to lead the local volunteers. The price is being held again this year to reflect the tough times many face on the island and that means it is about a third the cost of similar events in the US.

“We have had some great coaches in the past but there is no doubt that this year’s trio will be brilliant. They have an outstanding reputation for working with children, giving them a good time but also teaching them valuable lessons,” said organiser Richard Malcolm.

“The debt we owe Richard Scudamore is enormous. The fact that he chose to support children’s sport here on relatively tiny Grand Bahama is amazing when he had the whole world to go at. That has never really been fully acknowledged by the sporting fraternity here, including the print media and TV.

“This recognition by the rugby club may not seem much to some but it is a very rare award and a very timely one. The camp organizers would like to thank the committee for it. Richard certainly understood the import of it.”

Rugby Club president Rob Speller said: “There is no doubt what we owe Richard a lot for his vision and generosity. We thought hard about what we could do to thank him and we are glad we struck a chord with him by granting him this rare recognition.”

Registration forms for this year’s camp (price $175) can be obtained from Town and Country in Yellow Pine Street; Animale, Port Lucaya; from this website; or from derek.archer1@gmail.com

Lionfish presentation on reducing their invasion.

By GENEA NOEL

Freeport News Reporter
As the dreaded lionfish, an invasive species, continues to threaten the waters of the Bahamas, marine expert Greg Waugh has invented a new pole spear system, SafeSpear, that allows for the safe harvest of the venomous sea creature.

Noting that invasive species are costly and can affect our commercial and recreational fisheries, our ecology and tourism industry, Waugh said that efforts have to be increased to stop them.


The marine expert explained that the big release of lionfish came in 1992 with hurricane Andrew and showed up in The Bahamas in 2004, its population growing rapidly.

"There has been a good response in the Bahamas. Reef organizations have teamed up with dive operators and The College of the Bahamas to develop surveys to look up the lionfish and quantify them."

Waugh noted that there has also been a lot of effort generated on behalf of the government in producing many informational packages to encourage persons to harvest and handle lionfish.

He explained that there is also a national lionfish response plan, completed last year that requires a high management strategy which needs to be conducted in one to two years.

It was also recommended that persons should be allowed to spear lionfish around the islands and encourage commercial fishing of lionfish.

Additionally, Waugh said that the government is expanding protection for marine reserves and they are working along with them to try to get gear that can be used to harvest lionfish, to be allowed to be imported duty free.

Waugh's tool kit include needle-resistant lionfish gloves which he claims provides excellent protection. The kit also includes lionfish grippers to safely hold the lionfish while using the lionfish clippers to safely remove the venomous spines. A stainless steel knife is included to clean and prepare the lionfish for cooking and complete instructions are provided.

Two different bag systems for SCUBA diving in deeper water where sharks may be an issue and for snorkelling in shallow water where sharks are less likely to be an issue are also options.

The Bahamas National Trust will host a program to introduce SafeSpear on Wednesday, April 14, 2010 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Rand Nature Centre.

There Waugh will be answering questions, distributing printed materials, and taking orders for spears and kits.

Waugh said that Bahamians and visitors alike should give lionfish a try as it is easy to prepare and delicious.

Bahamian Artists supports Miss Bahamas Charity Auction & Braneka Bassett

Braneka Bassett stands next to a donated work of art by Claudette Dean. 

 Nassau, Bahamas - Two well-known Bahamian artists generously donated to the efforts of this year’s Miss Bahamas Contestants Launch and Charity Auction on April 9th to raise funds to support the Red Cross/Haiti Earthquake Victims.

Artists, Claudette Dean and Alisa Streather are both from Grand Bahama.

About the Artists…

CLAUDETTE DEAN

“EXPRESSING THE INEXPRESSIBLE THROUGH COLOR AND FORM”

Claudette Dean’s work is a part of the National Art Collection of the Bahamas. A Grand Bahama based artist, she was honored in 2008 by the Bureau of Women’s Affairs for her outstanding work and contribution in the realm of Fine Arts.

She has exhibited extensively since 1995, including: “Lumiere” a one woman show in Freeport Grand Bahama in 2008, “Bahamian Art, Pre-Columbian to the Present” featuring the National Art Collection at the NAGB in Nassau in 2007, “Across a Sea of Dreams” a one woman show in Canada in 2006 and NE1, NE2, NE3 and NE4 Juried Exhibitions at the NAGB.

“Sisters”, a much celebrated piece of her work, was purchased by The Paradise Island Promotion Board in 2000 and is on display at The Lynden Pindling International Airport greeting visitors as they arrive in the Bahamas.

A published artist, she is found in many private and corporate art collections in the Bahamas and abroad.


www.claudettedean.net

About the Painting: “A Girl’s Prerogative” is intended to be a light hearted painting which plays with the idea that it’s a girl’s prerogative to change her mind. It was exhibited at the inaugural exhibition of Art International in Lyford Cay in 2005 which featured catalogue with a foreword by Lady Micheline Connery wife of Sir Sean Connery. An accomplished artist, she also had a painting on display at the exhibition.

ALISA STREATHER

Donated:  “In The Groove”

Framed Original, Soft Pastel on Acid Free Light Grey Canson 

Artist Statement: As a Grand Bahamian artist I’m happy to be able to support Grand Bahama’s Braneka Bassett with the donation of an original oil painting and as a citizen of a Caribbean nation and am also very happy that this painting will be auctioned in aid of the Haitian relief efforts.
Born in Nassau, and graduated from high school in Freeport, with top awards in art. Alisa attended college in Atlanta and moved home to Grand Bahama, where she worked at Freeport Advertising.

Deciding to make a change in her career, she attended the college of the Bahamas to obtain a Teacher’s Certification.

Children have always been a pleasure to work with, and bringing out their talents in Abaco, Nassau and Grand Bahama has been and still is very fulfilling.

Alisa’s work can be seen in local and international homes, and businesses such as Geneva’s Seafood, Island Java, and Mamadoo’s Restaurant exhibits some of her work.

The Junkanoo Girl captures the spirit of junior Junkanoo, and with the funds raised by this event it is hoped that children in Haiti will greatly benefit from this endeavour. We must all work to help the children, and there by our future.

Miss Universe, Stefania Fernandez with Braneka Bassett 

 Follow Braneka Bassett and the other 16 young ladies in pursuit of the Miss Bahamas 2010 Crown on Facebook, Twitter and www.missbahamas.net

Miss Grand Bahama Organization unveils eight beautiful contestants

The 2010 Miss Grand Bahama Beauty Pageant contestants with the reigning queen, Nikie Severe. The new hopefuls are Celina McCardy (Hold the Tiger), Tempest Stubbs (Midway Electronics) , Shequera King (SkyBahamas), Cindy Lewis (Grand Bahama Bone Fishing Company) , Remi Henderson (Syngad Services) , McKishine Wilmott (Paradise Property & Development Co) , Valdena  Bain (DJ's Construction), and Rayne Armbrister (Sol - y - Luna Restaurant & Bar)  (Photo: Leshan Ferguson)

 Submitted by Bahamas Weekly

 FREEPORT, Grand Bahama -- Eight beautiful young ladies were magically unveiled at a special reception held at Sabor Restaurant and Bar at the Pelican Bay Hotel on April 2nd.

Wrapped in white scarves, each contestant was revealed to the public and made their walk around the pool area which was packed with their friends, supporters, family and tourists visiting the island.

The new hopefuls are Celina McCardy (Hold the Tiger), Tempest Stubbs (Midway Electronics), Shequera King (SkyBahamas) , Cindy Lewis (Grand Bahama Bone Fishing Company) , Remi Henderson (Syngad Services), McKishine Wilmott (Paradise Property & Development Co), Valdena Bain (DJ's Construction), and Rayne Armbrister (Sol - y - Luna Restaurant & Bar) ranging from 17 to 23 years of age.

Assisted by the mistress of ceremony April Crowther-Gow, each contestant was given the opportunity to introduce herself to the audience and made a second appearance in swim suits covered with bright orange wraps for the second half of the presentation.

Supporting the event was Minister of Housing the Hon Kenneth Russell. The reigning Miss Grand Bahama, Nikie Severe gave a brief account of her exciting year and was swamped with photograph requests from tourists after the show.
"The Miss Grand Bahama Beauty Pageant Organization wishes to say thank you to our contestant sponsors; a special thank you to Marva Munroe of Pelican Bay at Lucaya; and the management and staff at Sabor for a job well done. Thanks to all of our fans who came out, it was a great pleasure to see such community support and to receive such well wishes. Thank you so much for being there," said Glenn Davis, founder of the beauty pageant. 

Eight beautiful young ladies stand in front of the Pelican Bay Hotel at the official unveiling of the new contestants for the Miss Grand Bahama Beauty Pageant which is will take place on May 16th at the Hilton Outten Convention Center. Left to right is: Tempest Stubbs, Rayne Armbrister, Shequera King, Celina McCardy, Remi Henderson, McKishine Wilmott, Cindy Lewis, and Valdena Bain.  (Photo: Leshan Ferguson)

 

 Next in the 2010/11 Miss Grand Bahama Beauty Pageant is the Talent and Top Model competition set for April 30th at 8pm at the Island Seas Resort. Come out and see the talented contestants display their talent and strut their stuff on the runway.

A float parade will take place on May 1st starting from the YMCA at 4pm and arriving for a presentation at Port Lucaya Marketplace at 6:30pm.

May 16th is the big day where one of these lovely young ladies will take the crown. The beauty pageant will once again be held at the Hilton Outten Convention Center.

Port Families Reach Settlement, all Litigation to End

By Barefoot Marketing
Freeport, Grand Bahama - Sir Jack Hayward, OBE and Sarah St. George informed the Prime Minister of The Bahamas, Hubert A. Ingraham, by telephone that as of March 31st the Sir Jack Hayward interests and the St. George family together with Hannes Babak have signed a binding and conclusive Settlement Agreement to end all litigation between them in The Bahamas and the Cayman Islands.


In a brief telephone call with the Prime Minister, the two principals reported that they had reached a very amicable settlement and that in addition to ending the long running and at times acrimonious dispute they had agreed to work together on a joint sale of their equal interests in the Port companies to a buyer who would be both good for the future of Grand Bahama and acceptable to the Government of The Bahamas. Sir Jack noted “Hannes Babak, Derek Harrington and Andre Feldman should be commended for their efforts in helping to finalize a settlement” and he looked forward to “a new era of prosperity” for the island.


The St George family expressed their thanks to all who helped to achieve this goal in The Bahamas and Lady Henrietta said, “I feel like an enormous cloud has lifted. I have been praying for this day. Edward would be proud that we can all once again focus our full attention on Freeport’s bright future”.


Prime Minister Ingraham was very pleased to be informed on the agreement reached between the Sir Jack Hayward interests and the St. Georges', ending all litigation between the two . He recalled with appreciation the tremendous good both families have done for Freeport over the years, and said he and all of Grand Bahama look forward to better times ahead for the Grand Bahama Port Authority and for Freeport.


Sir Jack and Sarah St. George extended their appreciation, to “the dedicated staff of the Grand Bahama Port Authority, the licensees and to all Grand Bahama residents."