The Eleutheran Newspaper September/October 2019 Issue

Volume 12, Issue 09 /12, 2019 web: WWW.ELEUTHERANEWS.COM

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Eleuthera, Harbour Island & Spanish Wells, The Bahamas

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` Information. We Deliver!’’ Monthly In Print & Daily on the Web Since 2008 - ‘‘Eleuthera’s most reliable Source of News and

ON THE GROUND IN ABACO

Bahamas Daybreak takes a load of cargo and Eleuthera Volunteers to the north with Hurricane Relief. An Eleutheran Profile: 14

Almost one month after Hurricane Dorian lashed the northern Bahamian islands of Grand Bahama and the Abacos, an intrepid group of almost 100 volunteers from Eleuthera set out on Friday afternoon, September 27th, 2019 on a 14 hour boat ride, aboard the Bahamas Daybreak, to Central Abaco, to deliver relief supplies and food to residents who remained on the devastated island, following the passage of the strongest storm to ever impact land in the Atlantic basin. The volunteers were part of a network of

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Continued On Page 18 ADVICE:

20 (Surviving the Storm) ; 13 (Home Sweet Home) |

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New Students and Teachers in Eleu. Schools

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Teens Gather at Young Ladies Seminar

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EMT’s: Next BIG Step

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Family Fun Day for Displaced Families

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Youth Mentorship Program Launched

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NGO NYC Medics Deployed in Eleu.

Summer Fests Flashback -

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Spanish Wells, Harbour Island,

Eleuthera

BACK COVER: Damianos Sotheby’s International PAGE 3: Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty PAGE 5: HG Christie

Opinion:

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OIC ADDERLEY WARNS “Keep Eleuthera as Tranquil as it is”

“Don’t allow it to fester, and say that you are afraid.” In the wake of the first-of-itskind deadly shooting, in James’ Cistern, which took place on August 24th, 2019, resulting in the death of 27 year old Dwayne Rolle Jr., the Eleuthera Division of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, said in early October that investigations are still continuing into the shocking incident. Chief Superintendent, OIC Stephen Adderley commenting during an interview on Monday, October 1st, emphasized that

the general public in Eleuthera should ensure that they know who are in their communities, adding that Police have noted a trend of criminals moving in from New Providence into places like James’ Cistern, Hatchet Bay, areas of North Eleuthera, as well as South in the Rock Sound area, and Governor’s Harbour. He also stressed that they were paying attention to local drug traffickers, who had the effect of bringing criminal networks out of Nassau. “Many of the killings in Nassau are over drug turf, and so as these criminals move into

Continued On Page 29

RBPF C/SUPT. OIC ADDERLEY

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MOT and Pineapple Festival Committee Give Back to Local Community The Pineapple Festival Committee chaired by Mrs. Patsy Fowler, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, and the North Eleuthera District Council, on Friday, October 4th, 2019, erected a number of safety and other pertinent signage at the Sapphire Hole and Preacher’s Cave locations, with the assistance of Ministry of Works personnel. Seating at the Sapphire Hole was installed by the North Eleuthera District Council earlier in 2019, and upcoming installations planned at the site included a ladder formation to be put in by the Rotary Club of Eleuthera, as well as a platform and guard rail to enhance both the level of safety and

functionality of the local landmark, said Ms. Jacqueline Gibson, Eleuthera Tourism Manager and Rotarian. Seating signage was also posted at Preacher’s Cave and Tay Bay, where large benches were recently erected by the Rotary Club of Eleuthera for the enjoyment of locals and visitors. Following the sign installations, the Pineapple Festival Committee Chairwoman joined Ms. Jacqueline Gibson and her team from the Ministry of Tourism at the Gregory Town Primary School, where a check for $1200 was donated and presented to the school, which came directly from proceeds of the gate fee, during the 2019 Pineapple Festival. A teacher at the school, Ms. Continued On Page 21

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Hurricane Dorian

- Future of Real Estate in The Bahamas Published September 17, 2019 by HG Christie Ltd. There is no doubt that Hurricane Dorian was one of the worst hurricanes in the western hemisphere and the worst hurricane in The Bahamas. We have all seen the horrific images of mangled buildings, boats and lumber that are the indelible images of Dorian. Not to mention the tragic loss of life and missing persons yet to be accounted for. So what then is Dorian’s effect on the real estate market in The Bahamas? There has been a staggering amount of publicity on The Bahamas and in the long run there is no such thing as bad publicity. There has been an amazing outpouring of support for The Bahamas by so many people, organizations and countries, especially the US, and this shows the world that The Bahamas is a loved and admired country and many who might not have thought about The Bahamas will now have it on their radar and

will think of visiting in the years to come. In the near term the outlook is as follows. Many homes have been destroyed in Abaco and Grand Bahama. What this means is that there will be many people looking to rent homes and condos which is good for the markets in Nassau and Grand Bahama. In Grand Bahama many people are looking to rent homes that did not get flooded more towards the south of the island. The rental market that was on the slow side before the storm will certainly now improve and people will migrate more south on the island and thus push the prices up for both sales and rentals. The same can be said for all of New Providence. We have had an unprecedented amount of evacuees, some from Abaco, to Nassau and they all need to live somewhere. Everyone that can afford to rent is finding a home or condo which in turn will help to drive rentals, and thus the sales Article Continued Page 17

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DSE speaks on Placement of new students and Teachers

“Some of the situations have been challenging but it’s been positive for the most part” BY The eleutheran news team

Some of the many students and teachers displaced by Hurricane Dorian at the end of the summer break have had to begin the new school year in the Eleuthera School District with at least 130 students welcomed by September 24th, according to Superintendent (DSE) Michael Culmer. “In Education, it has been generally a positive impact” expressed Culmer in reference to the immediate impacts seen. “Some of the situations have been challenging, but it has been positive for the most part,” he added, saying, “It has brought us together as a community. “We have been able to organize within our schools, uniform drives where principals were encouraged to reach out to past parents, to get uniforms and collect uniforms. So, with the kids coming in, it could take some of the pressure off of Social Services, as there would have been only so much budgeted for uniforms, and that consideration would have been for students who would have regularly gotten, on island. So, the uniform

drives were a great asset.” “What it has also done for our schools as well was that - many of our schools would have had shortages in terms of staffing, that we would have been dependent on surpluses in other places to fill. We have been able to get through the Ministry of Education, some of the teachers that have been displaced, to be placed within schools. A number of teachers have been assigned, and redeployed to our island.” Citing other positive effects, Mr. Culmer stated, “I see it also as - outside of the context of school - it’s also going to broaden the degree of exposure that our students are going to have. It’s going to help us develop a sense of appreciation and a sense of empathy as people and as children. It helps us to focus on more than just ourselves.” Mr. Culmer also noted, “One of the things we are discovering is that many of those

teachers who are coming in are natives of Abaco. So, it speaks to something that we need to also be doing on our island. We need to begin to encourage our brightest and our best to go into Education. We’ve got to start to think about what are actually our communities’ needs and begin to encourage our students to go into those areas. We talk about wanting to be first world. One of our biggest challenges in education right now is finding persons who are prepared to work in Career and Technical Education. That’s our Economics, Clothing Construction, Auto Mechanics, Carpentry and Joinery, Electrical Installation. Those are very difficult areas to fill. “I wouldn’t even speak to the Sciences, like Physics, Chemistry, Biology. Again, trying to find people in those areas, whose passion is teaching - not just getting someone who would have majored in

BioChemistry, or in transition now trying to find ways to generate capital to go back to continue - who only resort to teaching, is a challenge. We want people whose primary focus is teaching and to work in that area,” added DSE Culmer In reference to the distribution of the students DS Culmer commented, saying, “It is every school on the island, and that number is increasing daily. That is from the School For Exceptional Learners, to Kindergarten, Primary Schools, All Age Schools, Secondary Schools - all the schools.” In answer to whether Eleuthera’s education infrastructure was ready absorb the numbers of students coming into the island, DS Culmer explained, “There are some schools that you can put that number of students in, and you wouldn’t notice it. However, that’s not the case with all the schools where they are predominantly. Many of the persons Article Continued Page 21

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Classified:

SOUTH ELEUTHERA:

JOB OPPORTUNITY

OFFICE ASSISTANT

A well-established company on the island of Eleuthera requires an Office Assistant.

The successful candidate will be responsible for:  General office duties  Accounts Payable, including reconciliation and payment of monthly bills  Accounts Receivable, including production and distribution of customer statements  Assisting with Inventory controls and procedures  Cashing and assisting Customers Interested applicants must possess:  General Accounting experience  Inter-personal skills  Flexible work hours  Time Management skills  Organizational skills  Multi-Tasking skills  Excellent Computer Skills  (Quick Books, Microsoft Excel & Word)  VALID POLICE RECORD  VALID DRIVERS LICENCE

Interested applicants please send résumés to REPLY2ME242@gmail.com . Suitable candidates will be invited to interview for the post.

Classified:

SOUTH ELEUTHERA:

HELP WANTED

Store/Warehouse ASSISTANT

A well-established Business on the Island of Eleuthera requires an Assistant. The successful candidate will be responsible for:  General Store work duties  Manage loading of Trucks  Drop off and pickup supplies  Cleaning and maintenance of trucks  Assisting with Inventory controls and procedures  Serving and assisting Customers Interested applicants must possess:  Stick Shift Truck Driving experience  Inter-personal skills  Flexible work hours  Time Management skills  Organizational skills  Multi-Tasking skills  Some Computer Skills  (Microsoft Excel & Word)  VALID POLICE RECORD  VALID DRIVERS LICENCE A VERY GOOD WORK ATTITUDE

Interested applicants please send résumés to REPLY2ME242@gmail.com. Suitable candidates will be invited to interview for the post.

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Cross-Border Climate Change refugees looming large Secretary-General, António Guterres, after he inspected the ruin inflicted by Hurricane Dorian. The second was the lament by Bahamas Prime Minister, Hubert Minnis, as the storm hung over his nation for 24 hours, driving 185 mph winds, creating surges of 18-to-23 feet above normal tide, and decimating all in its path. Both the “hell” that the U.N. SecretaryGeneral described, and the hopelessness expressed by the Prime Minister as the Bahamas was attacked by Hurricane Dorian, are now part and parcel of Caribbean life. These conditions will worsen as the causes of Climate Change - the rapid By Sir Ronald Sanders rise of greenhouse gas emissions from (The writer is Ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda human activity - continue unabated in to the United States and the Organisation of Ameri- wealthy developed countries such as can States. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Instithe U.S., and in China and India. A tute of Commonwealth Studies at the University of recent U.N. report titled, “The Heat Is London and at Massey College in the University of Toronto. The views expressed are entirely his own) On: Taking Stock of Global Climate Ambition”, states unequivocally that “Temperatures are already up about 1.0°C “Hurricane Hell” and “The Bahamas from pre-industrial times and the last is at war being attacked by Hurricane four years were the warmest on record Dorian. And yet The Bahamas has no weapon to defend itself”, are two memo- – including July 2019, which was the hottest month of all. And there are ever rable expressions that emerged from the wreckage of the Abaco Islands and starker signs of harm caused by climate change. Coral reefs are dying, Arctic Grand Bahama in the chain of islands that make up the territory of The Baha- sea ice is shrinking, and sea levels are rising, while droughts, floods, and mas. hurricanes grow more severe”. The The first was a description by U.N.

people of the Abaco Islands and Grand Bahama can testify to the lived reality of hurricanes growing more severe. What the aftermath of Dorian in the Bahamas brought into stark reality is that the phenomenon of Climate Change refugees in the Caribbean is not limited to Barbuda in 2017. In the complete decimation of Barbuda, the entire population had to be evacuated to Antigua. Similarly, large numbers of people had to be moved from the Abaco Islands where little was left to sustain livelihoods. These large movements of people were possible in The Bahamas and Antigua and Barbuda because they were done within the same national jurisdiction. Refugees from Barbuda after Hurricane Irma were accommodated on Antigua and those from the Abaco Islands in The Bahamas have been billeted in Nassau. But, had the territory of the Bahamas not been a chain of islands and had Antigua and Barbuda not been a single state, the people from the Abaco Islands and Barbuda would have had to seek refuge outside of their own national borders. The possibility of an entire territory being decimated cannot now be ruled out in the future. Consequently, the prospect of cross-border climate refugees is looming large. For, it should now be obvious to all that the damaging effects of Climate Change are growing. And, there is little point in wishing away the suddenness of having to absorb the entire population of one or more islands as refugees, or at least large numbers of vulnerable groups. It should be recalled that in the wake of hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, Puerto Rico received ships evacuating not only US citizens but also vulnerable persons of other nationalities from affected British, Dutch and French overseas territories in the Caribbean. Puerto Ricans also fled their homeland in the aftermath of its destruction. Fortunately for them, they could go to the U.S. where they have the right to live and work.

open holidays

The question then arises as to where would climate refugees from an entire country go, who would accept them, for how long would they be accepted, how would they be transported, and who would pay the cost of sheltering them? Then there is the cost of supplying food, water, clothing and medicines. Who would foot that bill? And, since children will be among those refugees, will accepting countries be able to accommodate them in schools and provide textbooks? Clearly, Caribbean countries, however well-meaning they are to their kith and kin, would be unable to tackle the enormity of such a problem alone. The region would require meaningful financial, technical and other international assistance within a legal and regulatory framework. The problem should be placed squarely before the U.N. starting at this year’s U.N. General Assembly at which every Caribbean speaker should rail against those countries and their governments whose profligacy is killing But, the U.S. is not open to non-citizens and residents as was Caribbean countries by storm after evident when non U.S. visa holders storm, each more destructive than the were decanted from a ship taking Article Continued Page 41 refugees from The Bahamas to Florida.

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HOME SWEET HOME What does a home mean to you? Ask anyone this question and you’ll likely get a bundle of answers. I’m not talking about the dictionary definition of a home as a place to live permanently, or as a member of a family or household. This goes a lot deeper. Everyone yearns for a comfort zone. A place where you can feel calm and safe. Where you look forward to returning after a day at work, an outing or a holiday. Home is a feeling of contentment and happiness. It’s something you can share with family and friends, whether it’s around a dining room table, in a living room or on a porch. The environment you create doesn’t just affect you, it will make an impression on buyers. If your home is just brick and mortar to you, follow these steps to create a special place that pulls you. And remember, buyers are attracted to homes that evoke feelings or comfort, calmness and security. These tips are especially helpful if you’re preparing your home for a sale.

Go Green - Plants aren’t just visually pleasing. Studies show they can create a calming environment, ease anxiety and promote a better night’s sleep through fragrance and by improving air quality. Jasmine, rosemary, aloe, English Ivy and Areca palms are some of the plants that fall

into this category. They can grow indoors and outdoors.

Electronic No No - Spaghetti-like tangles of cords and cables are a turn off. If you don’t have small wireless devices, tie up the cords in a cabinet or hide behind a console. Designate a single drawer for techie stuff, such as power chargers, batteries and remote controls. Declutter - Keep your home clean and tidy. Going home to a mess at the end of the day is not conducive to relaxing. After a hard day at work or play and sitting in bumper to bumper traffic, the home should convey a sense of calmness through order. Soothing Colours - Create a soothing environment with soft pastels, creams or off whites. Avoid dark and bright colours - especially bright yellows, oranges and reds. Soft blues and greens are calming. Avoid busy patterns on furniture and curtains. They can be distracting. Soft Lighting - Bright overhead lighting can be hard on the eyes and nerves. Use soft lighting to create ambience. A dimmer will allow you to turn lights up or down. Fresh Flowers - Place a potted flowering orchid or cut flowers in your favourite room or rotate outdoor flowering plants inside. Flowers provide a nice focal point and promote cheer.

Sleep Oasis - Make your master bedroom a soothing, serene space. Use calming colours, good pillows and mattress and soft textures to create comfort and peace. A good night’s sleep is critical to a person’s well- being. Outdoor Retreat - We live on a beautiful island where gorgeous flowering trees and vegetation thrive in abundance. Use foliage to create a secret garden with lots of shade. Plant flowering vegetation, such as firecracker, and use water features to attract hummingbirds. Create an open-air sitting area on your porch or patio with outdoor furniture and a fireplace or grill. Get a Dog or Cat Studies show pets help reduce stress. Sure, they can create a mess, but if you love them, you will be rewarded in love tenfold, not to mention the entertainment they provide. If you haven’t owned a pet before, make sure you understand what it entails before

By Mike Lightbourn taking on the responsibility. Keep your home free of pet odours and clean any litter boxes and food bowls on a regular basis.

Questions or comments? Contact me at info@cbbahamas.com (Mike Lightbourn is president of Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty).

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An Eleutheran Profile:

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MRS. DONNALEE MILLER BY Sherelle Wallace

Centre Supervisor for MOT’s twenty-six vendor operated stalls. Her duties include collecting daily rent on days when there is a ship in port, as well as overseeing the maintenance of the Craft Centre. In addition, she’s stationed at the information booth within the gates, where cruise passengers can easily locate an island representative for Eleuthera brochures or to have any questions about the island answered. She also assists with island tours when necessary. Donnalee shared that she likes to mingle with cruise passengers, and she walks the premises speaking with them, also using lunch breaks as an opportunity to hand out brochures and get feedback from passengers. Overall, the visitor experience at Princess Cays is a very positive one, she said. However, one thing visitors have expressed that would enhance their day-stay, is more Bahamian cultural activities and authentic Bahamian products and food, she added. In Governor’s Harbour at the Eleuthera Tourist Office, Donnalee’s duties include preparing reports and deposits for Princess Cays, the People-to-People program, and general day-to-day tasks. Passion for PTP:

The People-to-People Program, also called - the PTP experience - is a complimentary service, connecting first time visitors with local Bahamian ambassadors, explained Mrs. Miller. The program, she said, was initiated in 1975 to promote tourism on a more intimate level and convey Bahamians’ love of meeting new people and showing them who we are. For the visitor, the experience is designed to forge lifelong relationships, the intent being that the visitor would have such a positive first stay that they will become repeat visitors and promote the island and extended country when they return home, said Donnalee. The program is free to join for both the visitor and ambassador. However, as ambassadors serves as guides, they are required to be knowledgeable of their home island, be well spoken, accommodating, and an overall welcoming host, emphasized Mrs. Miller.

An Eleutheran Profile: Mrs. Donnalee Miller

Introduction:

Tourism is Donnalee Miller’s business, and pleasure. Whether it’s as an employee with the Ministry of Tourism, as an entrepreneur renting apartments for an extended time to foreigners, or as a traveler herself; she is the epitome of a Bahamian ambassador. Donnalee resides in Deep Creek, where she was born and raised. Her parents Cecil and Coreen Thompson, live just a short drive down the hill from Donnalee’s home. She has been married to Bercil Miller all of her adult life, and the couple has been blessed with three children and two grandchildren. Extended family include both her husband’s Methodist Church family and her own Anglican Church family, where she serves as a Lay Reader. Many in South Eleuthera affectionately refer to her as Aunt Donna, and those more closely associated take it a step further and see her as

“Grammy Deep Creek”. Donnalee’s hobbies, she shared, include meeting people, organizing local events, catching crabs, exercising, and traveling. Life’s Work:

After graduating from The College of The Bahamas in 2005, where she chose Supervisory Management as her field, Donnalee joined The Ministry of Tourism (MOT) in 2006. When asked what prompted her to join MOT she responded, “I’ve always felt like an ambassador; that’s my home-stay.” Throughout the years she has welcomed many visitors to stay in her home, with her family, whether those visitors were on island for a vacation, lending a hand to a local cause, or experiencing some personal tragedy while on our shores. In the MOT, Donnalee holds two posts. At Princess Cays, Bannerman Town, she is Craft

Describing the program on Eleuthera, Donnalee shared that PTP has been ongoing for many years. Usually MOT will electronically introduce intended travelers to Eleuthera to a local ambassador, she said, and they would begin communicating prior to arrival. Visitors book their own accommodation and or rental vehicle, but their host might welcome them at the airport, take them on a tour at some pre-arranged date and time, or prepare and serve them a traditional Bahamian meal at the host’s home or business, Mrs. Miller outlined. She added that as PTP is a voluntary venture, ambassadors do not expect to be compensated by the visitor, which is MOT’s stipulation. Compensation, she smiled, comes in the satisfaction of helping to boost our tourism product by advertising what we have to offer and building relationships with people all over the world. Any Eleutheran over the age of twenty-one, said Donnalee, can become an ambassador and are encouraged to join. Also, guests and interested ambassadors can view past guests reviews, learn more about the program, and or register at www.bahamas.com, she highlighted. Two Loves - Business and Travel:

As an entrepreneur in the tourism industry, Donnalee owns Article Continued Page 15

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ing its one hundred employees and the local economy. Most recently, after the catastrophically devastating impact of Hurricane Dorian on the country, tourism is even more important than ever, she opined. Mrs. Miller noted that although the islands directly hit by Hurricane Dorian were Abaco and Grand Bahama, Eleuthera, like the rest of the country, has jumped in to lend life-saving aid to thousands of victims. Eleuthera, she said, has also joined the call to display to the world that our island is ready and eager to welcome visitors from around the world to our shores, adding that a great tourism product is vital to the economic rebuilding of The Bahamas. Donnalee has pledged to take on this new task not

Donnalee stands with her colleagues in the Ministry of Tourism’s office.

and operates twelve rental units with her husband. Their tenants, she said, are predominantly long-stay renters, either vacationing or on work permits. One of the advantages of being a landlord in the tourism industry, shared Mrs. Miller, compared to being an officer with MOT, is that she has been able to form a closer bond and interact on a more frequent basis with her tenants. As a tourist herself, Family Island hopping has proven to be the best kind of vacation for Donnalee, who enjoys the feeling of connecting with Bahamians who feel like family at first meeting. A trip to Acklins Island was particularly enjoyable, she said, and Donnalee hopes to vacation on every major island in the country. For international tours, she favors family cruises around the Caribbean. Sometimes their entourage consists of as many as twenty-five family and friends. Her favorite destinations for day stops, said Mrs. Miller, are Labadee, Haiti, St. Martin, and Cozumel, Mexico. Experiencing tourism from the receiving end, and comparing it to the tourism product in her own country, Donnalee gave this review: “There is absolutely no place like The Bahamas. However, we do not appreciate and take as much pride in our country as we should. And our culture is not being displayed as well as it should be.” Dedicated to the Future:

Over the past several months the importance of tourism on Eleuthera has been particularly poignant, said Mrs. Miller, sharing that two major incidents at Princess Cays impacted the operation’s business, affect-

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only in her duty as a tourism ambassador, but within her heart’s fulfillment to serve. Mrs. Miller’s example has proven how one can bridge the gap between business and pleasure in a way that is professional, yet familiar and personal. Whether it’s while speaking to tourists in her work environment or having done a favor for someone local, her trademark statement is: “Oh, it’s my pleasure!” Donnalee highlighted that she wants the world to know that: ELEUTHERA IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS!

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Teens from across the island gather for frank, inspiring and uplifting discussions at Young Ladies Seminar On Saturday, September 21st, 2019, the Anglican Church Women (ACW) Council hosted the 17th Annual Young Ladies Seminar in Governor’s Harbour, Central Eleuthera - the first of a number of Family Islands scheduled to host the annual event for the very first time this year. Scores of young girls participated, from townships all over the island, with the exception of the communities north of the Glass Window bridge, who were unable to get there, because of the five day closure of the bridge from September 18th to 23rd, as a result of dangerous waves. The St. Patrick’s Parish Hall was still packed, as approximately 60 young girls from all denominations were encouraged to take part. Organizers said the information shared during the seminar, themed, “I Am His Blueprint - He Knows Me!”, was vital for all girls today.

13 to 16-year-old girls from all over Eleuthera were invited to take part in the ACW’s 17th Annual Young Ladies Seminar hosted at St. Patrick’s Parish Hall in Governor’s Harbour on Saturday, September 21st, 2019.

A talented group of speakers presented to the young girls on a wide variety of timely topics, imparting precious advice and knowledge with the aim of positively impacting their lives, covering; Proper Etiquette, Health & Grooming, Protection from Predators, Skills for Life’s Survival, Preparation for Graduation, Finances and How to Budget, and a keynote presentation by Mrs. Vernita Bethel. Other speakers included: Evangelist Shirley Burrows, Nurse Bianca Edwards, WPC Alexandria Albury, Mrs. Jennifer Moncur and Ms. Loretta Butler. Mrs. Sandra Young, President of the St. Patrick’s Parish ACW, along with Mrs. Evangeline McDonald, National Anglican Church Women Council President, were both in at-

tendance and warmly welcomed the group of 13 to 16 year olds. Commenting on the ‘new to Eleuthera’ event, Mrs. McDonald shared, “Two years ago, we decided to take this event out of New Providence, and into the Family Islands, so, this is the first time the Young Ladies Seminar was held in Eleuthera. This year we are trying to spark their imaginations, talking about getting into college and being prepared, introducing to them the concept of small business and other ways they can help themselves. This year we wanted to make it more impactful.” Mrs. McDonald also emphasized the importance of inviting young girls from all churches and all walks of community life, saying, “I was of Article Continued Page 17

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the belief that the Seminar did not have to be just for Anglican church girls, because they are going to school with all other denominations. So, there is nothing better than if you can bring everyone together and have a conversation one time. So,

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uture in

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market as people like to buy solid income real estate.

a greatly reduced price, which is good for both buyer and seller.

Many people have asked me if Dorian will scare away buyers and my short answer is NO. Indeed we have new buyers coming in now seriously looking to buy on all islands. Certainly if your home made it through the storm without too much damage that is a huge sales point for the viability of that home. In addition many homes (not all) have hurricane insurance and once the owners have their relief funds they may decide that they don’t want to go through the re-building process and they can then opt to sell their home as is at

There are always opportunities in real estate - one just has to be ready to take advantage when the opportunity presents itself, helping a buyer or a seller fulfill their needs as we move on to the next chapter of rebuilding the great islands of Abaco and Grand Bahama. Please feel free to contact me, John Christie, if you have thoughts or comments. John@hgchristie.com 242.357.7572.

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when they go back to school, they all can support one another, because they were all here to get the same information.”

Mrs. Vernita Bethel, Lay Pastor and leader in the Methodist Church, was the keynote speaker at the 17th Annual Young Ladies Seminar held in Governor’s Harbour on Saturday, September 21st, 2019. She delivered a powerful message covering a wide range of critical issues for today’s young teen girls.

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relief Continued from Page. 1 Eleutherans, organized by Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, Stephen Hank Johnson, shortly after the disastrous storm, dubbed the ‘Dorian Relief Freedom Team’. The group actively supported the evacuee transition operation that took place at Three Island Dock, several days after the storm, which saw hundreds of Abaconians evacuated by boat, brought to North Eleuthera, registered, then transported to New Providence, or reunited with family and friends in Eleuthera. Several evacuees were also sheltered at Camp Symonette in James’ Cistern with the Methodist Habitat, with the Department of Social Services supporting, and the ‘Freedom Team’ mobilized to raise funds and take in donated relief supplies for the sheltered evacuees, and other Abaconians devastated by Dorian’s passage. Worker’s House became the center of operations for the group, where clothing, shoes, canned goods and other relief supplies

were sorted and made available to evacuee families in need. The trip to Abaco saw multiple pallets of donated relief supplies, loaded onto the MV Daybreak, in addition to 15 more pallets transported via Bimini Shipping from Florida, directly to Abaco, with supplies donated to Eleuthera for the mission to Abaco from different groups and individuals, including from the ‘Men of Faith’, Diana Mingo, Denward Rankine and many others - timed to also arrive on Saturday morning, September 28th, shortly after the Daybreak’s arrival at Marsh Harbour’s bat-

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2019 tered sea port. A group of Abaco evacuees also accompanied the Eleuthera volunteers on the relief trip, to take a look at the state of their homes and properties, since

their escape off of the storm ravaged island, and to reclaim what items and vehicles they could. Article Continued Page 43

Pictured Above and Facing Page: Eleuthera volunteers, after deboarding the MV Daybreak on Saturday morning, got directly to work on packaging care bags for Abaco residents in need and preparing hundreds of food plates.

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20 www. EleutheraNews . com

RELATIONSHIPS: By Teri M. Bethel When tragedy strikes, it’s then you realize how fragile life is, regardless of your age, social standing, or wealth. During these traumatic times, our differences can seem so minuscule in comparison to the bigger picture of life. In walking through your challenges, the stress that often accompanies trauma can affect relationships negatively, if left unchecked. Crying Is Not a Sign of Weakness Those that were viewed as the pillars of the family can become fragile. This is an excellent opportunity for families to come together to help each other overcome their loss. The old saying, “big boys don’t cry” has kept many in fear of expressing themselves for dread of being considered weak. Weeping or expressing sorrow for a season is not a reflection of weakness. Rather than judging, choose to be supportive as your loved one goes through a difficult time. According to Judith Orloff, M.D., an assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA and the author of The Empath’s Survival Guide, our bodies produce three kinds of tears: reflex, continuous, and emotional. She notes that each type has different healing roles. Dr. William Frey at the Ramsey Medical Center in Minneapolis stated that emotional tears have benefits. They contain stress hormones which get excreted from the body through crying. After studying the composition of tears, Dr. Frey found that emotional tears shed these hormones and other toxins which accumulate during stress. So, crying can be beneficial when you are experiencing trauma. However, if you find that you are crying for extended periods and are experiencing depression, you should consider speaking with a professional counselor or pastor to help you through this time.

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Surviving the Storm

Identifying Survivor’s Guilt Regardless of the spectrum on which you fall after going through a natural or personal disaster in life, there are sometimes haunting thoughts that keep people from celebrating, or at the least being grateful for a favorable outcome in a situation. A gentleman who overcame cancer after battling it for many years found himself in a slump. Why he survived the ordeal when countless others had not was the new war he waged as depression quietly slipped in. The 9/11 tragedy in the United States of America had its own survivor’s guilt challenges in the aftermath of New York’s twin tower catastrophe. But what about natural disasters—situations when your loss is not as traumatic as your neighbor who may have lost a home, or even a family member who has nowhere to turn? The pain is real and can be magnified even more when there seems to be no apparent solution to ease your neighbor’s agony. In addition to seeking help, those experiencing this guilt need to be celebrated and affirmed by their loved ones and community. Silencing the Rising Beast In a society that is reeling from the impact of an unprecedented natural disaster, social media, along with some unseasoned news forums, have become anti-social in propagating information. Those who never had a voice, and some that did, are displaying unfettered, and many times, irresponsible views with no consideration of the emotional damage they are doing to others. In many instances, large doses of hearsay are being shared to people who are easily incited and won’t fact-check, but will rather quickly accept the information as truth. Unfortunately, very few of these purveyors correct erroneous statements after their comments have been debunked by those who are informed. This type of activity, which on the outside appears to be one of solidarity in standing with our brothers and sisters, is, in fact, having the opposite effect. It is instilling more fear, riling anger, and unrest in a nation that is in desperate need of solidarity. Undermining the efforts of those who are attempting to save and restore some form of normalcy until a heartier solution is deter-

mined is counterproductive. What Can the Ordinary Person Do? Rather than using your words to break down, let’s come together to rebuild. As a community with youngsters looking to us as an example of how we ought to conduct ourselves, let’s show them how we can positively impact our family, friends, and neighbors. Small-minded people complain and agitate, while responsible people see the problem but look to help with the implementation of solutions. Perhaps we are not all on the same level in what we can do or give, but here are a few suggestions that may add value to the lives of those in distress: •

Pray for the safety, recovery, peace of mind and restoration of our people. • Pray that our leaders and first responders exercise wisdom and sensitivity in the recovery and restoration effort. • Comfort those who have lost loved ones, homes, livelihood, pets, etc. • Ask how you can help to lift the burden of those experiencing loss. • Donate what you can to support the recovery effort. • Volunteer your time to local charities and feeding centers. • Encourage your church to adopt several families for spiritual, emotional and physical care. • Refuse to use a natural disaster as a political football field. • Host a family in your home for a meal and/or shelter. • Sponsor a rental house for a family. • Provide transportation to those needing to sort out their medical and other concerns. · Help to connect families to local or international relatives. · Organize family members to assist in providing school supplies for children. · Limit the amount of traumatic news/photos shared with youngsters. · Mute conversations with suppliers of negativity. · Be appreciative of those w h o

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are assisting in the recovery effort. Today, not long after Hurricane Dorian wielded his destruction, thousands of skilled and unskilled Bahamians, residents and visitors have banded together to lend their assistance to save lives and rebuild our nation. As a people, we can stand like Nehemiah, a simple cup-bearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia, who received permission to rebuild the walls of his city, Jerusalem. In the process of building, he was goaded by the idle, disruptive Sanballat to discontinue the work. Nehemiah decided he would not stop; instead, he continued the task until completion. Nehemiah was a layman who got the job done. We are a gifted, resilient people. Despite this overwhelming tragedy, we are a blessed nation. Should we choose to stand together, with God’s help, we can overcome the obstacles we face and allow healing to come to our land. About the Author: Teri M. Bethel is an artist, handbag designer, and publisher. She is also the author of relationship enrichment books which include: Before We Say, I Do… and My Marriage Matters. Teri has also published romance and adventure novels, purse making and fabric painting DVDs which seek to entertain, empower, and promote healthy lifestyles for adults and children. Additionally, Teri provides a free online directory for local authors to showcase their family-friendly books. She and her husband have two adult sons. Visit her website, www.BooksByBethel.com, or e-mail her at tbethel@booksbybethel.com.

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education Continued from Page. 10

District Superintendent Of Education, Mr. Michael Culmer. File Photo August 2019

coming in from Abaco and Grand Bahama [with their children] are coming in highly trained and highly

‘impact’ skilled. They have worked, and they are capable, and want to work. So, they are finding jobs. So, you will find that the concentration of those students are in the areas where there are more jobs and available work.” Overall said the DS, there have been some other challenges, which have been communicated, he said, with the relevant authorities, and his office would await those challenges being dealt with. One example he gave was the need for additional furniture [chairs, desks and the like], sharing, “It’s going to take a little bit of creativity, and a little patience - and working some things out amongst ourselves within the schools.” In terms of other initiatives to assist displaced students on the island, Mr. Culmer, said that local NGO’s have really jumped on board, “One Eleuthera is do-

ing quite a bit, also Bahamas Methodist Habitat, as well as the Department of Social Services - I must thank them for the yeoman’s task they have taken on. They are managing the crisis, and have been liaising with all of the organizations. They are working with the schools, with the lunch program, and directly with the principals.” DSE Culmer also shared that the district had been the benefactors of a generous donation, saying, “A grant that One Eleuthera would have gotten, afforded us the privelege of having trained counselors in the schools this month. Schools that would have received the most displaced students were in the north, like Samuel Guy Pinder All Age specifically, which would have been out there slightly ahead with the most students, then North Eleuthera Primary School, and Harbour Island All Age School and North Eleuthera

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High School. So, the counselors spent a significant amount of time in Spanish Wells, and their services were also made available to teachers and parents.” Having just held the second district wide Principal’s meeting since the school year began, earlier that day, DSE Culmer, shared that their theme this year - ‘Excellence In Leadership’, was one they were diligently working to implement - by giving Principals every opportunity to be familiar with Ministry of Education standards and expectations, also by discussing and analyzing student performance data in national examinations, and internal examinations - then asking themselves the difficult question of why more students were not performing at a higher level, and what were some of the things they could be doing as instructional leaders in the schools - and as teachers, parents and students.

Pinefest gives back Continued from Page. 4 Clarke, accepting on behalf of the principal expressed their appreciation, stating, “It’s challenging here in a very small setting, to raise funds to provide the items that we need, that are not provided by the Ministry of Education. So, we thank you guys for thinking of us, and considering us with this donation today. It will be used for the benefit of our children. Thank you very much.” In response, Ms. Gibson expressed how important it was for the Pineapple Festival as a Signature Event of the Ministry of Tourism, along with the local committee to give a portion of the proceeds from the event to the local school. Funds raised she explained, were used to offset the cost of the Pineapple Fest weekend, and she said they were so pleased to be able to also contribute something of significance to the local school within the Gregory Town township, as well as to the island and nation, by erecting the safety signs and no dumping signs at the Sapphire Hole and Preacher’s Cave locations. Appealing to Eleutherans and Bahamians throughout the country, Ms. Gibson encouraged all to support and enjoy next year’s Fest, saying, “We want to do more things like that, but we can only do it if we have 100% support. Not only from this local community, but the island, and the Bahamas at large - to come and support Pineapple Festival 2020. We indeed want to make a difference.”

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Above and Right: MOT reps and Pine Fest Chairwoman presents a cash donation to the Gregory Town primary school.

Left: Ministry of Tourism, the North Eleuthera District Council, Rotary and Ministry of Works, partner to place safety signage at the Sapphire Hole landmark location.

22 www. EleutheraNews . com

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emergency medical technician (EMT)

training: The Next Big Step in Life Saving Care - says Dr. Lightbourne

we can guarantee a certain level of care to them, within a certain minimum period of time. Getting care to people, in a way that can save lives - this is the next big step, and puts us on level with New Providence,” he added.

Participants in the intensive, 4-month-long EMT training course, currently ongoing in Palmetto Point, stand with their instructor, Kristina Wilson (far right).

Beginning on September 7th, and going until mid-December, a dedicated group of trainees are taking part in an intensive 4-month Emergency Medical Technician training program. The graduates, when completed with the course, shared Dr. Lightbourne of the Eleuthera Medical Center in Palmetto Point, who is directing the training program, will be the first EMT’s on Eleuthera. The trainees, in addition to 3 days of 4 hour training sessions per week, on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, plus 12 hours of out-of-class reading/studying each week, will also complete a ‘ride time’ in New Providence, overseen by the Princess Margaret Hospital, and sit a national registry examination - a US based exam, which would qualify them internationally, on successful completion, as Emergency Medical Technicians, he said. Dr. Lightbourned explained, “This is the level above Medical First Responder, which allows you to work independently on an ambulance without needing to have a nurse there, because they you would have the qualifications and training to treat and manage patients under the direction of a doctor.” “There are currently no EMT’s in Eleuthera,” he added, “which is why when

ambulances go out in Eleuthera, they have to first pick up a nurse.” However, clarified Dr. Lightbourne, “nurses are generally not trained in emergency medical services (EMS), to work on ambulances and to go to car accidents. They are not trained to do alot of the things that EMT’s are trained to do - they are generally trained to be inside a medical facility, and are usually the receivers - the ones to take care of the patients once they have arrived.” “So, a properly designed healthcare system,” he continued, “has a pre-hospital team and a hospital team, with nurses and doctors being your hospital team, and EMT’s your pre-hospital team.” When you call 919 in Nassau, said Lightbourne, what you get are Emergency Medical Technicians, that come to you to provide care by stabilizing patients, and to what is necessary to get people safely to a hospital. Kristina Wilson, a trained EMT, is the main instructor for the EMT course, which is being done in association with a school based in New Providence, ‘Nurses Edge Training Institute’, stated Dr. Lightbourne. “I am very excited about this. It’s really a big deal for the island. It takes us one step closer to having a proper 919 system on the island, where people can call, and

Public Reminded of New Road Traffic Laws Which Took Effect On October 7th, 2019 Changes to the Road Traffic Act, which were passed in the House of Assembly earlier in this year, were meant to save lives by decreasing the number of traffic fatalities taking place in the country, said Transport and Local Government Minister, Renward Wells, during the first sitting of the House of Assembly after the summer break, on Wednesday, October 2nd, 2019. Now ranked as a common cause of death in the country, there were 63 fatal traffic incidents recorded last year, resulting in 69 fatalities, according to authorities. Minister Wells took the opportunity during the session to remind the Bahamian public that the amendments took effect on Monday, October 7th, 2019. The amendments criminalize the use of phones/electronic communication devices while driving, and driving with an open alcoholic beverage. Motorists will also immediately have to produce proof of insurance and a driver’s license upon the request of a Police officer. The amendment also requires the payment of outstanding traffic offence fines before renewing a driver’s license. A person failing to adhere to these provisions would be liable to a fine. The amendments also allow motorists to make a cautious left turn on a red traffic light.

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‘through OCT. 2019 highlights in OCT/NOV 2019 Wemyss Bight Homecoming Festival Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 to Monday, Oct. 14, 2019 This festival was designed to bring nationals and visitors to Wemyss Bight to celebrate and reminisce about bygone days. It features talent shows, Bahamian food and drinks, live band performances, and local crafts. Venue : Wemyss Bight, South Eleuthera Contact: Clara Young / (242) 470-4081

30th Annual North Eleuthera Sailing Regatta Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 to Monday, Oct. 14, 2019 This is a major event within the islands. Class A, B, and C Class boats are invited for competition. The onshore activities include live band performances, cultural shows, native food and drinks and Bahamian music. For information contact Mrs. Lucy Johnson at (242) 333-3031or the Harbour Island Tourist Office at (242)333-2621. Event is held in Harbour Island.

Governor’s Harbour Homecoming NOVEMBER 1ST – 3RD This festival attracts locals and visitors for a fun filled weekend. Activities include Junkanoo, live band performances, food, drinks and games. For more information please contact Mr. Demetrius Johnson at (242) 467-5137.

Community EVENTS Breast Cancer Awareness Month Annual Cancer Society Walk for a Cure Event Saturday, October 19th - 10am – 3pm Health Fair at Cancer Society Wellness Centre Saturday, October 26th Annual Walk-a-thon in 3 locations beginning at 6am – Harbour Island, Lower Bogue and Governors’ Harbour. Saturday, October 26th - 9am to 4pm Free Clinics at Lower Bogue and Harbour Island Clinics –PAP Smear & Breast Exams for women and PSA Blood Testing & Digital Exam for men. Friday, November 1st - Cook out at Cancer Society Wellness Centre – delivery service included. Support ‘Pink Fridays’ by wearing something pink on Fridays. Shirts and other merchandise will be sold during the month.

Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve

7th Annual HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR Hosted by The Rotaract Club of Eleuthera & The Leon Levy Preserve Date: October 26th, 2018 Location: Banks Rd., Governor’s Harbour Time: 6pm to 9pm (Kids $5/Adults $10) (Special Prizes for the Best Child and Adult Costumes!) For more information CALL: 332-3831

Living Word Ministries Intl. 31st Annual Family Conference October 10th -12th Day Sessions: 11:30am - 2:45pm Evening Sessions: 7pm St. Patrick’s Parish Hall, Governor’s Harbour

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Holidays and Observance Days: YOUTH MONTH National Events: National Youth Awards, Atlantis

October 23, 2019 at 7pm Youth in Parliament, House of Assembly

October 25, 2019 at 9am

The Mckayla Knowles 2nd Annual Diabetes Walkathon Saturday, November 23rd, 2019 - Begins at 6am Starts from the North Eleuthera Service Station to the North Eleuthera Shopping Center. For more information, contact: 551-3848. (Glucose testing will be done on site.)

Monday, October 14th - National Heroes Day - public holiday (The second Monday in October, formerly known as “Discovery Day” or “Columbus Day,” has now been dedicated to honoring Bahamian national heroes since 2013. An official National Heroes Day ceremony is held; heroes from a cross-section of civil society are celebrated with a week of activities.) Sunday, November 3rd - Daylight Saving Time Ends Thursday, November 28th Thanksgiving Day

School EVENTS Q4-2019: School Awards Ceremonies (Summer Term 2019) Central Eleuthera High School - Friday, October 18th - 9:30am (School Grounds)

Teacher PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DAYS: Christmas Term - 23rd & 24th October, 2019 MID-TERM Break: Teachers & Students - 25th & 28th October, 2019

Celebrated This Month (OCT.): (Youth Month / Breast Cancer Awareness Month)

CONTACT The Eleutheran Newspaper at 422-9350 or send email to services@theeleutheran.com,

to have your community notices and events listed.

26 www. EleutheraNews . com

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Family Fun Day Hosted in Rock Sound for Displaced Families BY The eleutheran news team

After the devastation caused by hurricane Dorian on the islands of Abaco and Grand Bahama, a number of the members of the South Eleuthera District Council, sought to offer assistance to persons affected by the storm, especially after seeing the devastation first hand during an Eleuthera volunteer relief trip on the weekend of September 28th, 2019. The District Council led by Chairman John McCartney, on their return, realized that there were a number of displaced families from the affected islands who had relocated to Eleuthera, so, the decision was taken to offer these families much needed assistance in the form of food care packages. The Council also envisioned a family fun day event, to provide a fun-filled setting for families to interact and socialize, and the members made it happen, within a very short period of time. The event which was hosted at the grounds of the District Council Office in Rock Sound on Saturday, October 5th, 2019 was a success said organizers, and proved to be therapeutic for those in attendance, especially the kids. They were treated to refreshments, a bouncing castle, cotton candy, popcorn, face painting and other games and activities. There was also a barber on hand offering haircuts for the men and boys, and a supply of clothing. Jerissa McDonald, an evacuee and a descendant of Tarpum Bay, who was out enjoying the fun day with her family, described being evacuated to Nassau, and her immediate decision to return to the home of her youth, saying, “I purchased my ticket to come straight to Eleuthera the very same day.” She shared her appreciation for what she thought was an outpouring of love. “This has definitely been a help. It makes me feel loved. I was overwhelmed with the support I received from my Eleuthera people. I really didn’t expect it, so, hats off to everyone who has contributed to us. My family and I really appreciated it. 78 families received care pack-

ages during the family fun day event, and 60 kid’s snack bags were distributed to those present. 33 bags were also delivered to other displaced families and 20 bags remain at the District Council Office for distribution. The South Eleuthera District Council expressed a special thanks to all the partners and volunteers who helped to make the event a success. Generous sponsors were also thanked, including; Adleade Allentoys, games etc; Shantiche TayArticle Continued Page 27 Above: Local Government/District Council members stand with care packages prepared for displaced families. Below: Fabulous Family Fun day activities and treats.

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CO NSE RVAT I ON CORNER

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Diving into Coral Reef Conservation By CEI

This summer The Island School Outreach team and the Cape Eleuthera Institute collaborated to cultivate the next generation of coral reef stewards in The Bahamas. Coral reefs exist throughout the Bahamian archipelago. They provide countless benefits to the surrounding habitat and to humans. Many corals grow hard skeletons that overtime form the reef structure which shelters a range of species of fish and crustaceans. The reefs also dampen storm surge and protect coastal communities. The future of these biologically rich ecosystems are vital to the economy of The Bahamas. They support a $65 million commercial fishing industry and over 40,000 jobs in marine ecotourism. However, these coral reefs are facing threats from unsustainable fishing practices, coral disease, pollution and the impacts of climate change including water temperature change and rising sea levels. The Cape Eleuthera Institute, in collaboration with the Perry Institute for Marine Science and The Nature Conservancy are conducting cutting-edge research on coral reproduction and restoration with the aim to upscale coral reef restoration across The Bahamas, in addition to developing new technologies to build coral reef resilience. Together we have launched the Bahamas Coral Innovation Hub, located at the Cape Eleuthera Institute. This summer three young scientists Silia, Donald and Matthew from The Bahamas joined our coral reef research team as interns to support our coral reef research and restoration efforts conducted at the Cape Eleu-

thera Institute. In their first week they had an opportunity to observe coral spawning and collect coral gametes to rear coral larvae in the wet-lab. These coral larvae will continue to grow until they are big enough to be out-planted onto the reef which can increase the survival rate of the baby coral by at least 40% compared to in the wild. Our new team of coral interns maintained our coral nursery regularly, monitoring growth rates and cleaning the structures to ensure algae did not over grow and smoother the coral fragments. Additionally, interns were trained in coral monitoring techniques and survey protocols used across the Caribbean region to compare and assess reef health. In early August, the Island School Outreach team welcomed 11 young Bahamian coral reef enthusiasts from Eleuthera and across The Bahamas to participate in a unique Coral Camp opportunity. Campers explored the coral reefs surrounding the southern end of Eleuthera, participated in coral reef research and restoration efforts, and became advocates for coral reef conservation. The Island School Outreach team collaborated with researchers and coral interns from the Cape Eleuthera Institute to deliver informative and engaging

experiential education and activities focused on coral reefs. At the conclusion of the week, the young coral conservationists engaged in an art for advocacy workshop led by artist Keisha Oliver. Their art installation was made entirely out of upcycled beach plastic that students collected from a beach in South Eleuthera and then repurposed into creative artworks titled “Washed Up Messages�. These artworks are now on display at the Cape Eleuthera Institute to promote coral conservation. The Island School Outreach team, the Cape Eleuthera Institute, the Perry Institute for Marine Science and The Nature Conservancy are committed to continuing to spread knowledge of the value that coral reefs provide to the environment, economy and people in The Bahamas. We will continue to involve youth in The Bahamas in research, conservation and advocacy projects to maintain these vital coral reef habitats.

at The Island School

Family Fun Continued from Page. 26 lor- Snow Cone, Cotton Candy; Stephanie Pearce- Face painting & popcorn (donated by Georgous-Marathon Mall); Bouncing Castle-Sybil Forbes (donated by Tarpum Bay United Junkanoo

Above: Ms. Allen takes time to stretch with the kids. Right: District Council Chairman, Mr. John McCartney enjoys a bit of shade.

group); Hair Cutting- Walter Neely, Music by Walter Neely; Fountain of Life Ministries; South Eleuthera Emergency Partners; and the South Eleuthera Local Government Officials and Staff.

28 www. EleutheraNews . com

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Local Pastor inspires establishment of Youth Mentorship & Suspension Center Program at Harbour Island All Age cially recognized with the Ministry of Education, and Ms. Miller was present at the day’s launch as keynote speaker to the audience of HIAAS students. “It took a while, but with persistence, here we are today... We are hoping to provide a good, positive environment for our children. I think that as you grow, the more positive things you are involved with when you are young, really helps you going through life,” said Higgins. The Suspension Center, which would be located at the Sailing Club facility in Harbour island, was to be a structured environment where students, after being suspended, would receive counseling and mentorship during their suspension period, (L-R) Mr. and Mrs. Andrea Eve (Ministry of Education), Minister Margaret Higgins and Pastor Melvin Higgins (Program Directors), Ms. Patrice Miller (Ministry of Education - PACE Program), Mrs. Kim Rahming (Ministry of Education).

On Friday morning, September 27th, 2019, a Youth Mentorship & Suspension Program was officially launched at the Harbour Island All Age School (HIAAS). A group of mentors from the Harbour Island community, including the Police and Social Services Departments, would serve as the core engine of the program, and the mentors, assigned to different groups, would meet with students in the mentorship program once per week, during lunchtime. Relevant speakers would be engaged on various topics, and involved students would also take part in educational field trips and community activities. More than 30 students from grades 10 through 12 were said to have already signed up to take part. Interim principal at HIAAS, Mrs. Shanna Johnson, explained, “The goal at the school is to have an official program in place where we can have an intervention for our students. We are not expecting any student to get suspended, but from time to time, we do have one or two, and we want to have an alternative available for them. Not only for suspension, but we want to have a training and mentorship intervention program, even before anybody gets suspended. So, if any student is having a difficulty or a problem, they would have mentors they can go to, that they can

turn to. They need to know that there are people in place, who can assist them through difficulties they may be having, that may cause them to be on the road toward suspension.” The inspiration for the program, shared Pastor Melvin Higgins of the World Vision Disciple Center in Harbour Island, who will head up the Mentorship and Suspension Program locally as the Director, came from an encounter with a young boy four years ago who he met walking within the community during schools hours. He asked the boy at that time what he was doing out of school, and the boy answered that he had been suspended. Pastor Higgins said it ‘clicked’ to him that the boy’s parents possibly didn’t know where he was, and he may not have been headed home, and he saw right then, he said, the need for a ‘Suspension Center’. Pastor Higgins broached the idea to the school’s principal, and also volunteered to go into the school and speak with the children. “It all started there,” he said. Principals came and went, and the idea stalled, until he met Ms. Patrice Miller with the PACE (teen mothers) program in 2018, who had the same passion and drive for the children - so, the ball, he said, got rolling again. Since then, they successfully got the program offi-

rather than being fully out of school. “So, you don’t just send a child off for two weeks, and he comes back with 2 weeks worth of bad habits and wasted time,” said Pastor Higgins. Mrs. Andrea Eve, Supervisor of the Student Development Division within the Ministry of Education, which runs a number of successful Mentorship & Suspension programs in New Providence, along with her colleague, Mrs. Kim Rahming, were also on hand to witness the launch of the program on Friday morning - the very first of its kind within the Family Islands.

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oic Adderley Continued from Page. 1

crime

Eleuthera, they may be trying to set up drug turfs. With that comes violence. With drugs come guns, and guns bring violence. These are the kinds of things we see happening. So, I would implore the community of Eleuthera to pay attention to what is happening within their communities, and to bring anything that is out of the ordinary to our attention.” He continued, “Don’t allow it to fester, and say that you are afraid. Because, if you allow crime to instill fear in you, they will take charge, and we would become another Nassau, another Grand Bahama, another Abaco. So, the whole idea is to keep Eleuthera as tranquil as it is - and those unwanted, unsavory persons - who like to ply their illegal and illicit wares in the communities. Let them know it’s unacceptable. Advise us quickly, and we will deal with it, and they will get the understanding that they will not be allowed to fester and take root, or grow into something stronger and more menacing. So, let’s catch it while it’s young.” Police in Eleuthera, said OIC Adderley, are also strategically documenting people coming into the island, with one example being the monitoring of mailboat arrivals to curtail drug and gun trafficking, and the arrival of criminal elements. However, he also noted the challenge of Eleuthera’s accessible coastline, and the close proximity to the capital. “We have some people who we know are traffickers, and so, we are keeping an eye on them. Eleuthera is growing and is attracting criminal enterprises. They are coming in. They see there is a void, and they are trying to fill the void. We want to make sure the void continues.” Commenting on a spate of shop break-

ins during mid-September, Chief Supt. Adderley, informed that there had been three major incidents which took place in North Eleuthera, and in Central Eleuthera, and were all related to the same group of offenders. “We were able to snag those culprits. There were a total of three persons apprehended - all from New Providence, and we suspect there were more involved. Once we took them into custody, we discovered that they had also committed shop break-ins in Long Island, Exuma, Andros, and New Providence. So, once we finished our investigations in Eleuthera, they were sent into New Providence, and then the other three islands to clear up matters on those islands. They were an organized group, who knew exactly what they were doing casing the businesses, and we suspect they were using females to come into the various stores over multiple visits - casing them for cameras, weaknesses in security systems, location of windows and doors etc. - just by way of shopping, and you would think they were legitimate shoppers. Their mode of operation was to return at night to take advantage of the business.” Commenting on the impact of the influx of displaced residents from Abaco into The Eleutheras,

Sept/Oct

from the Police Department’s viewpoint, Chief Supt. Adderley, said, on the positive side, “It brings in a group of people with possibly fresh ideas, and a new way of operating. The Abacos were a thriving community and economy - the country’s third city, with many entrepreneurs. So, it could bring a new way of thinking to Eleuthera for those who intend to stay. Hopefully, many will still return to re-establish Abaco. However, we will likely see a growth in population here, and that would mean more traffic on the streets. Also, people who were criminally minded in Abaco, may want to do the same here. So, we could see a myriad of challenges.” To face those challenges, OIC Adderley, said his Eleuthera Division has created a new Operations Support Unit, with Sub-Commanders throughout the island, to better manage information, “So, we have an overall idea of what is happening, and to provide additional support to impact communities. With information at our finger tips, we can better devise stategy to impact criminality and even anticipate what is happening and combat it. So that’s what we are doing as it relates to this new influx.”

CHTA: Caribbean Tourism Stakeholders support travellers impacted by THOMAS COOK DISSOLUTION Officials

are optimistic about

latest developments to keep dor

Airlines

Con-

flying to the region

MIAMI (September 25, 2019) - Expressing concern for the thousands of travelers, employees and businesses impacted by

29

the closure of British travel group Thomas Cook, the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) commended the region’s and global tourism industry stakeholders for moving swiftly to support impacted travelers. The trade body also thanked

industry partners for proactive measures to identify alternative opportunities for travelers who were originally planning to travel to the region through Thomas Cook this fall and winter. Citing the latest developments, the region’s tourism stakeholders expressed hope that a bridge loan to Thomas Cook’s Germany-based ConArticle Continued Page 34

30 www. EleutheraNews . com

Isl a n d “B u z z ”

Sept/Oct, 2019

Emancipation Day Weekend 2019, in Tarpum

Bay & Hatchet Bay (Back to the Bay Fests)

BY The eleutheran news team

As they do each year on Emancipation Day Weekend, the townships of Tarpum Bay in the south, and Hatchet Bay in the central area of Eleuthera, celebrated their twin ‘Back to the Bay’ Fests. While Tarpum Bay celebrated the cultural rhythm of Junkanoo, Hatchet Bay entertained with Bahamian songstress Fanshawn and the iconic Geno D. (See Hatchet Bay photos on Page 32)

The Passion

& The Energy!

2019

I sl an d “B u z z ”

Sept/Oct

31

The RUSH

For Love of Junkanoo at Tarpum Bay Fest Smiles All Around

Cotton Candy, Hoopla, all Fun and Games.

Twin

‘Bay Fests’ Continued on Page. 32

style n’ smiles

Tarpum Bay Fest 2019

32 www. EleutheraNews . com

Isl a n d “B u z z ”

Back to Hatchet Bay 2019

Continued from Page. 30/31

style n’ smiles

Sept/Oct, 2019

n at i on a l

Sept/Oct, 2019

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Trinidad and Tobago Troops Complete Hurricane Relief Efforts In Grand Bahama

Coral Harbour Base, 06 OCT. ‘19 (RBDF): The 87-member Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF), who were deployed to the island of Grand Bahama as part of the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) contribution to the hurricane relief effort, returned to New Providence on Friday (October 4th). Led by Major Derron McClean, Task Force Commander for the TTDF, the troops arrived in the capital aboard the Defence Force patrol craft HMBS NASSAU and HMBS ROLLY GRAY under the command of Commander Chappell Whyms and Senior Lieutenant William Sturrup, respectively. On hand to greet the men was Captain Adrian Chriswell, Captain Coral Harbour. The TTDF arrived in The Bahamas on 8th September 2018 where they were attached to the Royal Bahamas Defence Force to provide relief support to Grand Bahama as guided by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). The contingent was then deployed to Grand Bahama on the 10th September. Their main tasks included conducting damage assessments of government buildings including schools, as well as providing security assistance along with the RBDF at critical locations such as the C. A. Smith Government Complex, NEMA warehouse, Freeport International Airport and the NEMA Emergency Operation Center. The troops also assisted with road clearing and tree cutting in Mcleans Town and effected repairs to the roof

of the Jack Haywood High School and the Post Office building in Sweeting’s Cay. On September 21, the TTDF Contingent assisted NEMA with the distribution of hurricane relief items to hundreds of persons in need at Independence Park. The TTDF contingent were later hosted to a reception at the Defence Force Base, and were thanked by Base Executive Officer Commander Michael Sweeting on behalf of Commander Defence Force, Commodore Tellis Bethel for their outstanding service during the hurricane relief efforts. “We are grateful for the opportunity to assist in this disaster relief efforts and appreciate the hospitality shown to us”, said Major McClean. “We are sorry we cannot stay longer, but we have to return to our country. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you continue to recover from the hurricane”. The contingent returns to their country on Monday October 7. RBDF Photo 1 shows: Captain Adrian Chriswell, Captain Coral Harbour greeting Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force contingent on their arrival at the HMBS Coral Harbour on Friday October 4, 2019. Led by Major Derron McClean, Task Force Commander, they were deployed to the island of Grand Bahama as part of the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) contribution to the hurricane relief effort. RBDF Photo 2 shows: Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force contingent on their arrival at the HMBS Coral Harbour on Friday October 4, 2019. (RBDF Photos courtesy of RBDF Public Relations Department)

34 www. EleutheraNews . com

n at i on a l

CHTA ‘THOMAS COOK’ Continued from Page. 29

dor Airlines will be approved, restoring a potential of over 200,000 visitors to the Caribbean in the coming months.

The world’s oldest travel agency, Thomas Cook, recently announced it was forced to dissolve due to mounting financial losses. “The British authorities are doing their best to limit the inconvenience caused to thousands of travelers affected by the rapid closure of Thomas Cook and getting them home as quickly as possible at the conclusion of their planned holiday,” stated CHTA President Patricia Affonso-Dass (pictured). The Caribbean was expecting over 400,000 travelers from the United Kingdom and Europe this winter through Thomas Cook, representing a significant portion of the region’s 30 million annual overnight visitors. Finalization of a major development on Tuesday whereby the German government provisionally agreed to shore up Condor Airlines (which is part of the Thomas Cook

PM Minnis reports on natural disaster funds Outlines spending for IDB credit facility, Caribbean insurance payout and dormant funds

In the first of a series of communications to Parliament on Hurricane Dorian recovery and reconstruction, Prime Minister the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis on Wednesday reported how funds made available for natural disasters would be

spent. Prime Minister Minnis outlined preliminary estimates for the use of the $100 million-dollar contingent loan facility from the Inter-American Development Bank, the Dormant Funds Account, and the payout from the Catastrophic Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF). Earlier this year, the Government signed an agreement with the IDB for a loan facility for natural disasters, in the event that The

group) by approving a $380 million six-month bridge loan, would restore over 200,000 airline seats to the Caribbean. The loan needs final approval by the European Union. While many of the travelers caught in the Thomas Cook dissolution are protected for some of their expenses through ATOL (Air Travel Organisers’ Licencing) - established by the British Government to protect most air package holidays sold by UK-based tour operators - private travel insurance and credit card settlements, the CHTA president lamented that these services do not cover all expenses or the inconveniences caused when plans are disrupted. The association pointed to the importance of travelers’ considering insurance protection for unforseen circumstances. CHTA partners with Trip Mate which gives its member hotels the option of making travel insurance available to consumers at affordable rates. Responding to reports of some Thomas Cook travelers being prevented from leaving hotels based outside the Caribbean, CHTA said its members are encouraged to help, and not hinder, distressed tourists: “We continue to encourage our

Bahamas was hit with a hurricane and required additional funds to recover. “It is most fortunate that we put this facility in place in April,” Prime Minister Minnis told the House of Assembly. “Unlike past hurricanes, The Bahamas is able to quickly draw on this $100 million-dollar facility because of the foresight of this administration.” The proposed use of the funds will cover $30 million for electricity restoration; $15 million for water restoration; $30 million for enhanced social welfare spending; $15 million for debris removal and clean-up; $1 million for reimbursement of evacuation and shelter costs; and $9 million in unallocated funds, said the Prime Minister, noting that the estimates are subject to adjustment and further refinement. As it relates to the dormant funds account, in November 2018, the Government amended legislation on dormant accounts to provide for the use of those funds for a Disaster Relief Fund. The dormant account funds total approximately $40 million and are under the care of the Central Bank, which has recommended that the Government use no more than half these funds – roughly $20 million. The Ministry of Finance will determine and coordinate the disbursement schedule with the Central Bank, said the Prime Minister. Prime Minister Minnis reported that

Sept/Oct, 2019 members to show maximum compassion for those affected by the collapse, and to work with authorities to ensure Thomas Cook travelers are comfortable as they await repatriation home,” added Affonso-Dass. Additionally, she asserted that CHTA will continue to provide information to its members and work to ensure that they have all information necessary to allow them to claim for outstanding payments that may be due for stays where guests have already departed. The Barbados-based hotelier underscored the seriousness of the loss to the industry but also pointed to the achievements of the world’s oldest travel agency: “In these sad days, our hearts go out to those who will have suffered from the collapse but at the same time, I would like to recognize how Thomas Cook, for almost 200 years, managed to open up the world to millions of people. One could argue that the Caribbean’s success as one of the world’s most desired vacation destinations was made possible because of the business model which they developed years ago.”

assigned dormant funds will cover $10 million in support for small businesses in the Special Economic Recovery Zones; $5 million to support temporary housing accommodations in the affected areas; and $5 million for other Hurricane Dorian recovery efforts, to be determined. The Ministry of Finance will also liaise with the Minister responsible for Disaster Preparedness, Recovery and Reconstruction, and obtain his consent in respect to the utilization of the $5 million for yet to be determined recovery efforts, said Prime Minister Minnis. “Once again, it is fortuitous that this Administration had the foresight and forward-thinking in deploying these funds for disaster recovery and reconstruction,” said the Prime Minister. In May 2018, the Government renegotiated the country’s Caribbean Catastrophic Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF). The renegotiation divided The Bahamas into three distinct zones and structured payouts, to allow for more relevant and fair assessment and payouts after an event. The Bahamas has three tropical cyclone policies and three excess Article Continued Page 35

Lo c a l

Sept/Oct, 2019

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LETTER TO THE EDITOR

The Cancer Society Eleuthera Branch Expresses Appreciation On Sunday, September 1st, 2019, Hurricane Dorian stormed through the Northern Bahamas, namely Abaco and Grand Bahama, leaving a trail of destruction in its path. The Island of Eleuthera was spared from the wrath of this devastating hurricane, which caused a number of the residents of Abaco and Grand Bahama to evacuate. Eleuthera was one of the islands that received evacuees. The Cancer Society Eleuthera Branch, an organization which is known for providing humanitarian service, immediately made the decision to reach out to the victims of Dorian by opening its hall

to serve as a hurricane relief, distribution center. Messages were sent out to advise various partners and friends, they would receive food, clothing, toiletries, and any other donations offered. In less than twenty-four hours, as word got out, donations were pouring in from North Eleuthera to South Eleuthera. The spirit of giving was outstanding as clothing, shoes, bedding, food items, water, tarpaulin, pet food, baby food, toiletries and an assortment of supplies kept coming. The response from Corporate Eleuthera, local organizations, United States friends and residents, churches and community members

‘Disaster funds’ Continued from Page. 34 rainfall policies with CCRIF, each covering a section or zone of our archipelago: North West, South East and Central. The Government received $11,527,151 from the triggering of its tropical cyclone policy and $1,297,002 from its excess rainfall policy for the North West zone, which includes Abaco and Grand Bahama, for a total of $12.8 million from CCRIF. “It is most fortunate that we restored this facility after it was previously cancelled, a matter which should be debated on another occasion,” said the Prime Minister. Prime Minister Minnis also provided an update on the amount of monetary donations received by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). As of the end of 30 Septem-

ber 2019, NEMA has received monetary donations totaling $5,159,007.52 – including $1,362, 025.02 in corporate donations; $1,325,388.97 in private donations; $1,901,250.00 from foreign governments; $345,343.53 from non-governmental organizations; and $225,000.00 in intergovernmental donations These funds do not include donation pledges. “There is much work ahead, but we will rebuild, we will be made stronger, and we will be made whole again,” Prime Minister Minnis told MPs. _____________ 2 October 2019 Office of the Prime Minister Commonwealth of The Bahamas

supported this effort by the Cancer Society Eleuthera Branch one hundred percent. No questions were asked. Donors just put their trust in this organization. As the evacuees entered the center, they were greeted with big smiles, hugs and warm greetings from the Cancer Society Volunteers who gave personal attention to the needs of each person. No evacuee was left unattended, it was just a moving experience. Over a period of two weeks, some one hundred ninety-one (191) persons were assisted with clothing, food, school supplies, bedding, linen and care packages. In addition, supplies were sent to Camp Symonette in James’ Cistern, where some evacuees were being housed. On September 20th, after two weeks and many, many hours of sorting and laundering clothing, packaging food items and other products, the Cancer Society Eleuthera hurricane relief center joined forces with the Dorian

Freedom Relief organization. All remaining items were boxed and trucked to Worker’s House, Governors Harbour, where they were gratefully received. The Cancer Society Eleuthera Branch thanks the Eleuthera Community for their generosity, their spirit of giving, their humanity and their trust during such a horrific experience in the Bahamas. Special thanks and appreciation to the more than fifty three (53) persons who came out to volunteer on a daily basis. Your thoughtfulness and support can never be repaid. We thank you.

36 www. EleutheraNews . com

Crime News

Sept/Oct, 2019

Police Contact Numbers

Reports issued by the RBPF locally. Reports are printed to keep the public informed of the incidents of crime that are reported within our communities. All reports are to be treated as allegations only.

Eleuthera Reports

arrested and cautioned an adult male Haitian National reference to breech of the Immigration Act. He was handed over to the Dept. of Immigration.

Traffic Checks - Sometime between 6:00am and 9:00am on Tuesday the 1st of October 2019 Officers from the Governor’s Harbour Police Station conducted traffic checks in the area of The Glass Window Bridge and the entrance to Oleander Gardens. A total of 18 persons were searched reference to possession of dangerous drugs and firearms with negative results. A total of 18 traffic infractions were reported.

Arrest reference to Immigration Purposes: At 10:40am on Tuesday September 24th 2019 , Officers reported to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station , that sometime around 8:40am , on Sept ember 24th 2019 while in the area of Oleander Garden, Gregory Town , they arrested an adult male Haitian National reference to breech of the Immigration Act. He was handed over to the Dept. of Immigration.

Possession of Dangerous Drugs Report: On Tuesday 01st October, 2019 at about 10:10am Officers came into the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with an adult male under arrest and reported that while in the area of the cork tree located Queen’s Highway James Cistern Eleuthera he was arrested reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. The suspect was processed and charged.

Arrest reference Possession of Dangerous Drugs At 10:45am on Tuesday September 24th 2019 Officers reported to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station that sometime around 9:05am on September 24th 2019 while in the area of Oleander, Garden, Gregory Town, they arrested and cautioned an adult male reference Possession Dangerous Drugs. He was processed and charged with that offence.

STEALING - At about 11:00am on 27th September 2019, an adult female came into the G.H.P.S. and reported that while at her residence she discovered that her Asue monies of Four Thousand Two Hundred & Thirty Dollars was stolen from her hand bag. She requested Police Action in this matter.

Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs - At 10:45am on Tuesday September 24th 2019 Officers reported to the Governor’s Harbour Police that at 7:35am on September 24th 2019 while in the area of Gregory Town they arrested and cautioned an adult male reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. He was processed and charged.

STEALING BY FRAUD REPORT - At about 10:00am on Thursday 26th September 2019 an adult male came into the G.H.P.S and reported that between 20th August 2019 – 24th August 2019 he sent a female $1924.00 via Island Luck and Paradise Games for the purchase and shipping from Nassau for a 2001 Maroon Bluebird Syphy which she advertised on Facebook 242 Ads Classified. When asked to have his monies returned she ended communication with him and refuses to return the monies. Police action requested. This matter is under active investigation. Arrest reference to Immigration Purposes: At 10:45am On Tuesday September 24th 2019 , Officers reported to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station that sometime around 10:00am on September 24th 2019 , while in the area of Oleander Gardner, Gregory Town , they

Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs - At 10:45am on Tuesday September 24th 2019, Officers reported to the Governor’s Harbour Police Station that sometime around 9:44am on September 24th 2019, while in the area Oleander Garden, Gregory Town, they arrested and cautioned an adult male reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs. He was processed and charged. Road Accident Report Sometime around 11:00am on Sunday 22nd September 2019 Officers reported that while on mobile patrol in the area of the Governor’s Harbour Airport they discovered a black Honda Stream vehicle that appeared to have ran off the road and through the fence at the northern side of the airport. The airport authorities were informed of this also. At about 3:10pm officers reported that after making further inquiries they discovered that the mentioned vehicle is in fact a black Honda

HeadQuarters (GH) Governor’s Harbour OR O/C Governor’s Harbour Gov.Harb. Airport Station Deep Creek Station Tarpum Bay Station Rock Sound Station

332-3500 332-2111 332-2117 332-2723 332-2323 334-8207 334-4033 334-2244

Stream with Extensive front and rear damage. Attempts were made to locate these persons with negative results. The fence at the northern side of the airport received substantial damage. Investigations continues into this matter Causing Harm: On Sunday 22nd September 2019 at 10:40pm an adult male came into the GHPS and reported that while at a local Bar a male known to him, accused him of coming onto his girlfriend at a concert as a result the male then hit him to head with piece of pine wood causing him to fall to the floor and then hit again in the face with the same piece of wood causing injuries, Police action requested. The suspect was subsequently arrested and charged with Causing Harm. Housebreaking & Causing Harm - At 11:42pm Friday 20th September 2019, an adult male contacted GHPS and reported that his residence was broken and requested police action. Officers responded to the scene saw and spoke with the complainants who stated that sometime after 11:00pm on Friday 20th September, 2019, while at her residence her ex boyfriend entered the residence through a northwestern washroom door and began knocking on her northwestern bedroom window trying to talk to her. He became irate and smashed the glass of the window and also pulled off a portion of the window louver. She talked to him in the washroom where the argument continued and a physical altercation ensued resulting in him biting her on her lower lip causing injuries. The suspect then fled the scene. Arrest reference to Trespassing - At 8:17am Saturday 21st September 2019 Officers came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with an adult male under arrest . The suspect was subsequently processed and charged. SEARCH RE FIREARMS & DANGEROUS DRUGS - On Saturday 21st September, 2019, at about 3:25am, Officers while on Queens Highway, Palmetto Point in the area of the Cancer Society conducted a search of the lone male occupant of a gray colored Honda Accord. Search was conducted with nega-

Rock Sound Sgt. Office Rock Sound Airport Stn L. Bogue Station (Airport) Harbour Island Station O/C Harbour Island Spanish Wells Station Gregory Town Station Hatchet Bay Station

334-2212 334-2052 335-1208 333-2111 333-2327 333-4030 335-5322 335-0086

tive results ref Firearms & Dangerous Drugs. BREACH OF THE IMMIGRATION ACT - Officers came in at G.H.P.S. with an adult male Haitian National under arrest and reported that he was arrested while in Gregory Town on routine traffic check. He was searched and found not to have any legal document to reside in the `Bahamas. He was subsequently handed over to the Dept. of Immigration. ROAD ACCIDENT REPORT On Tuesday, September 17th, 2019 sometime around 1:20pm Officers visited reported a traffic accident on Eleuthera main road at the outskirts of Tarpum Bay where a (BPL) Bahamas Power and light truck ran off the road. Information received is that the lone occupant was transported to the Rock Sound Clinic via private vehicle seeking medical assistance. The vehicle received extensive damages, Measurements were taken of the scene and it was cleared at 2:15pm. Arrest reference to Possession of Dangerous Drugs At 8:56am Tuesday 17th September 2019, Officers came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with san adult male suspect under arrest reference to possession of dangerous drugs. They reported arresting and cautioning the suspect at 8:15am on 17/09/2019 after searching his person and finding a small quantity of suspected marijuana on his person. He was processed and charged with the offence. SUSPECTS ARRESTED; At about 1:30pm on Monday 16th September 2019, the Officers came in at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station with an adult female under arrest reference to Shop-Breaking, Stealing and Receiving. Shop Breaking reported On Sunday 15th September, 2019 an adult female contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police station and reported that there was an alarm activation at her place of employment, located on Queens Highway Governor’s Harbour. Police action was requested Officers responded to the scene and discovered that the suspects had entered the establishment and

Crime News attempted to break into the safe. The scene was processed and investigations led to the arrest of two adult males and an adult female from New Providence. They were subsequently charged with those offences. Shop Breaking Reported On Sunday 15/09/19 an adult female contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police station at about 7:46am and reported that some person(s) unknown had broken into a retail establishment;, located on Queens Highway Governor’s Harbour. The culprit(s) gained entry by prying open a southern restroom door and climbed through the ceiling to gain entry to the office, where they searched and stole the DVR for the security cameras. Police action was requested. The scene was processed and investigations led to the arrest of two adult males and an adult female from New Providence. They were subsequently charged with those offences. Road Accident Report On Sunday 15/9/2019 at about 12:52pm Officers while travelling north on Queens Highway, Hatchet Bay observed a white 1996 four door Toyota Corolla at a stop on western Side of Queens Highway pressed up against a tree with extensive front end damages. No persons were at the scene. Investigation is ongoing. House breaking & Stealing Report On Saturday 14th September 2019 at about 8:08 am, an adult male came into the Governor’s Harbour Police station and reported that on Friday 13 September,2019 at about 11:00 am he arrived at a home for which he is the caretaker to drop off some supplies at the house and notice that some unknown person or persons attempted to break into the home but, were not successful. He further reported that at about 5:00 pm, same date, he returned to the property to make checks and notice that the lock for the garage door was missing. Upon further inspection he notice that a number of tools missing valued at $500.00. Police action requested. Inquiries is ongoing. Stealing Report -At 8:00 am on Friday 13th September 2019, an adult male contacted the Governor’s Harbour Police station and reported that some unknown person or persons broke into a Trailer located on the property and stole a number of tools and equipment . Police action requested. Officers responded to the scene. Investigation is ongoing. Arrest Reference to Threats of Death & Causing Harm - On Thursday September 12th 2019 at 10:30am Officers reported that while at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station, they arrested and cautioned an adult male reference to Threats of Death and Causing Harm. A matter reported on 3rd

July 2019. The suspect was later released pending further investigations. ROUTINE ROAD CHECKS On Tuesday 10th September 2019, Offices conducted a routine traffic check on Queens highway Hatchet Bay ten(10) adult males were searched for Possession of Dangerous Drugs and Firearms with negative results in addition eight (8) drivers were reported for traffic offences. STOLEN DOCUMENTS REPORT - On 9/09/19 an adult female came to the Governor’s Harbour Police station on Monday 9.9.19 and reported that sometime around 5:00pm on the 7.9.19 she left her cream colored wallet containing her drivers license and NIB card on the seat of her white Ford F-150 truck while dropping of some fish at the residence of her grandmother. Some person(s) unknown then went inside her vehicle while unattended and stole her wallet along with the contents. Police assistance was requested. H.I. & N.E. Reports M.C.R. Arrest ref. Possession of Dangerous Drugs At about 4:36 a.m. on Sunday 29/9/19 a police Crew came in at Spanish Wells Police Station with an adult male suspect of Spanish Wells and also of Blackwood North Eleuthera, under arrest in reference to possession of Dangerous Drugs. The man was reportedly arrested and cautioned at about 1:30 a.m. after a a search warrant was executed on his residence and a small quantity of suspected marijuana was found. The suspect was interviewed under caution and is said to have admitted to the offence. Police charged the suspect with Possession of Dangerous Drugs contrary to Section 29(6) and 29(2)b of the Dangerous Drugs Act Chapter 228. He was subsequently released from custody on bail in the sum of $500.00 and with (1) one surety. He is slated to appear in court in Spanish Wells at 9:30 am on 29/10/19. M.C.R. Arrest ref. Possession of Dangerous Drugs /with intent Acting on intelligence, at about 10:30 a.m. on Sunday 29th September 2019, a police Crew of Eskimo # 1-4 Sgt 2253 Brown and P/C 3819 Munroe left Spanish Wells Police station on foot armed with a search warrant for the residence of an adult male, of #12 Street Spanish Wells, in reference to dangerous drugs. On arrival at the residence which they approached from the rear or the northern side they immediately observed that the residence was outfitted with surveillance cameras.

The voice of the suspect was heard inside. As the officers breached a northern door, the suspect ran, exiting the house through a southern door. He was in the company of his parents. He was also observed carrying what appeared to be a bucket in his hand. The officers gave chase and a short distance away, just in front of his house, caught and arrested the suspect. The contents of the bucket revealed a large quantity suspected marijuana PLUS (2) additional large packages each containing suspected marijuana. He was escorted to the Spanish Wells Police Station. Suspect Interviewed Charged Dangerous Drugs Police conducted an Interview at around 10:40Am on Monday 30th September 2019 with the young adult male suspect of Spanish Wells under caution while at the Harbour Island Police Station in reference to Dangerous Drugs with the Intent to supply. He was subsequently charged in reference to Dangerous Drugs with intent to supply contrary to section 29(6) and 29(2) B of the Dangerous Drug Act. He said nothing in reply to the Charge. Arrest Report- Police arrested and cautioned an adult male of Colebrooke Street in reference to an Assault complaint made by his estrange wife of the same address. Police conducted an interview with the suspect under caution at about 2:20Pm while at the Harbour Island Police Station on 30/9/19 where he denied the offence and stated that his ex- wife attack him and fabricated her story. As a result of insufficient evidence to proceed with prosecution, the suspect was released pending further investigations. Arrest report -An adult male of Love Lane Harbour Island was arrestred at around 1:50Pm on 30/9/19 while at the Harbour Island Police Station in reference to Causing Harm, a complaint made by a male on 28/9/19. Police conducted an interview with the suspect under caution at 4:50Pm on 30/9/19 while at the Harbour Island Police Station in reference to Causing Harm where he admitted to the offence and allegations. As a result he was subsequently charged in reference to Causing Harm. Arrest report -Police arrested an adult male suspect of Munnings Street, Harbour Island at around 12:55Pm on 30/9/19 while at the Harbour Island Police Station reference to Causing Harm and possession of Dangerous Drugs. Assault with a Deadly Weapon- Police Action Requeste - An adult female of Nesbitt Street Harbour Island came to the Harbour Island Police Station

Sept/Oct, 2019

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and reported that on 5/9/19 at around 8:50Pm while walking along Barrack Street a female known to her attempted to knock her down in the area of Jj’s Bar. She further reported that she was corned as a result of the attack where the female later made threats towards her stating that she should kill her. The complainant added that on 6/9/19 the accused came at her house at around 11:45Am and made threats towards her stating that where ever she sees her she will ‘*&(&’ her up and she better stay running. Police action requested. Arrest -- An officer reported that on 7/9/19 while in the area of Bay Street Harbour Island in the vicinity of Marti’s conch stall sometime around 1:15pm he arrested and cautioned a male suspect in reference to Shop Breaking. Police conducted an interview with the suspect under caution at 1:20Pm where he stated that he has no knowledge of the incident and was home at the time in question. He maintained not bein g involve in the matter and was later subsequently released. Stealing from a vehicle/ Damage report - On Friday 6/9/19 at about 2:15pm an adult male of Queens Highway Governor’s Harbour came in at Harbour Island Police Station and reported that sometime between 2:00pm Tuesday 3/9/19 and 9:30am Friday 6/9/19 he left his van properly locked and secured with merchandise belonging to the company that he runs on Harbour Island Ball field located Barrack Street Harbour Island to return to discover that some unknown person had broken the left driver glass window to the door to gain access in the vehicle also stole Five cases of Blue bird Juice valued at $25 a case three carton of Grabber Cigars valued at $65 a carton eight cases of Bud light beers valued at $45 a case and one case of Frito lay chips valued at $84 total estimated valued at $764 Police action requested. Police visiting the location where the complainant had the mentioned van parked at the time namely Dunmore Street reporting that a C.S.I Officer photographed and processed the vehicle where partial print impressions were found same were labeled and secured for further investigations. Arrest - A Police Constable reported that on 8/9/19 while in the area of Duke Street Harbour Island he re-arrested and cautioned an adult male suspect while in the Duke Street area in reference to Shop Breaking/ Stealing- a complaint made by a male on 26/8/19. Police conducted an interview with the suspect at 8:30Am on 8/9/19 under caution where he stated that he wish not to answer anymore of the questions that was put to him. At about 12:25Pm on the same date police charged the suspect with Trespassing contrary to section 160(1) and Stealing contrary to section 139

38 www. EleutheraNews . com Continued from Page. 37 both of the penal code chapter 84. Stealing from a Vehicle Arrest - On Monday 9th September, 2019 at about 9:55 am police arrested and cautioned suspect an adult male suspect of Colebrooke Alley in reference to Stealing from a Vehicle/Damage, a complaint made by an adult male of Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera. Police interviewed the suspect under caution where he denied knowledge of the incident. The suspect was later released from police custody pending further investigations. Assault with a Deadly Weapon Report - On Tuesday 10th September, 2019 at around 9:48 pm an adult male of Barrack Street came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that at around 9:30 pm while in the area of Mario’s bar, Clarence Street a male known to him, swung a cutlass at him several times placing him in immediate fear for his safety. He reported that he kept running away from the male and was eventually able to fully evade him. Police action requested. A Sgt reported that at about 5:20Pm while on duty at the Harbour Island Police Station he arrested and cautioned the male suspect in reference to Assault with a Deadly Police conducted an interview with the suspect under caution at 6:15Pm on 11/9/19 Farquarson where he denied the offence On Instrucand allegations. tions the suspect was subsequently released at about 6:30Pm pending further investigations and enquires into the matter. Counterfeit Note Report - An adult female c/o RBC Bank located Dunmore Street came to the HIPS and turned in a counterfeit Bahamian $50.00 note that was brought into the bank by a male barber. Police assistance requested. Stealing from Vehicle - An adult male of Harbour Island came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that on that morning at about 5:10am whiles taking a walk pass Valentines Resort located Bay Street, he discovered that the windshield of his white 2009 Yamaha Golf Cart l/p#314 was stolen, which had attached to it the license disc, which he rented out to some tourist on Monday 16th September 2019 at 6pm. Police assistance requested. .He further reported that same was parked across the street on the opposite side of the Dive Shop. The same is valued at $225. Police action requested. Shop Breaking Report

Crime News

On Wednesday 18th September, 2019 at around 8:10 Am an adult male c/o a business on Princess Street came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that sometime between 3:55 pm on Tuesday 17.09.19 and 8:00 am next date some unknown person/s broke into the establishment via a hole in the southern roof and stole about $1,215.00 cash along with the entire surveillance system. Police action requested. Shop Breaking Report On Wednesday 18th September, 2019 at around 8:35 am an adult female c/o Water and Sewerage Corp, Dunmore Street came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that sometime between 5:00 pm on Tuesday 17.09.19 and 8:10 am on the next date some unknown person/s broke into the establishment by prying open the lock to the front door. She further reported that culprits broke into the cashier’s cage and stole $100.00 cash, the entire surveillance system value unknown and an assortment of tools value unknown. Police action requested. Police Assistance Report -On Wednesday 18th September 2019, an adult female of Alice Street Harbour Island came to the HIPS and reported that sometime around Saturday 17th August 2019 her Ex- Boyfriend took her daughter on a family vacation and was supposed to returned on 31st August 2019, but he refuse to return the child back to Harbour Island. Police action requested. Shop Breaking Arrest On Thursday 19th September, 2019 at about 1:00 pm, consistent with the Commissioner’s Policing Plan, a team officers led by ASP N. Rolle and consisting of Insp. K. Farquharson, Sgt. 2253 Brown, Sgt. 1401 Carey, Sgt.2175 Larrimore, R/ Cpl. 256 Major, PC 2866 Hall and PC 3044 Lockhart conducted Special Operations throughout the Harbour Island District resulting in the arrest of the following suspects: • An adult male of Princess Street - Shop Breaking & Poss. D/Drugs. • An adult male of Pitt Street - Shop Breaking. • An adult male of Colebrooke Street - Shop Breaking. • An adult male of Colebrooke Street – Shop Breaking. • An adult male of Colebrooke Street – Shop Breaking. This operation was in reference to several recent breakings in the district. All suspects were taken in custody and investigations are ongoing.

Suspect Charged Police charged the male suspect of Princess Street with Possession of Dangerous Drugs contrary to section 29(60 & 29(2)b of the Dangerous Drugs Act Chapter 228. House Breaking Report Police Action requested An adult female of Trianna Shores Harbour Island came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that sometime on Monday 16th September 2019, around 10:00Am she along with her sister last secured the rental home she manages on Queens Highway Harbour Island after doing chores. However she reported on Friday 20th September 2019 at about 11:45Am she discovered that persons unknown gained entry through a southern sliding door and stole a 50 Inch vizio television along with the remote and a cable box. Police action requested. Willful Damage Report Police Action requested An adult male of Duke Street Harbour Island came to the Harbour Island Police Station at around 9:45Pm on 21/9/19 and reported that at around 9:30Pm on 20/9/19 on his arrival to his resident he discovered that his nephew of the same address caused damage to his southern bedroom window with a piece of wood after he was involved in a verbal altercation with his daughter. Police action requested. The complainant provided images of window and the damages which were caused to his window via email for further investigations purposes. Shop Breaking Arrest A Sgt while in the area of Colebrook Alley and Munnings Street, arrested and cautioned an adult male of Pitt Street reference to a Stealing complaint made on 18/9/2019. Police while at the HIPS interviewed the accused under caution, where he was asked a series of questions. He denied the offence .

Sept/Oct, 2019

suspect under cautioned at 4:15Pm in the presence of his mother, where he admitted to the allegations and admitted to the offence. Police Charged the accused in reference to Damage contrary to section 154 of the penal code chapter 84. He was subsequently granted the bail in the sum of $1,000.00 with one suretor to appear before Harbour Island Magistrate court on 30th October 2019. Causing Harm Report Police Information Only On Saturday 28th September 2019 at 2:50am an adult male of Bluff, Eleuthera came to the HIPS and reported that while in the area of Beyond The Reef, Bay Street Harbour Island, he got in an altercation with a male he knows who stabbed him in his left wrist. He reported this matter for police information. Police observed heavy bleeding coming from the complainant left wrist with a slightly big stab wound and plenty swelling. As a result the nurse on call was contacted and the complainant was issued an hospital form. Causing Harm Report Police action requested An adult male of New Dunmore Subdivision came to the Harbour Island Police Station and reported that sometime around 4:00Am on 28/9/19 while going through Colebrooke Alley he were involved a verbal altercation with a male whom he knows who later struck him above his left eye with a stone causing injuries. Police action requested. Police viewed injuries to the complainant and issued him with a hospital form to seek medical attention and to return to the Harbour Island Police Station on completion to give an official statement of the incident.

Stealing Arrest An officer while on duty at the HIPS arrested and cautioned an adult female and a young adult female of Nesbitt Street, Harbour Island in reference to a complaint made by a male of Stealing. Suspects Interviewed. Police interviewed both suspects and both denied the offences.

Arrest: Ref: Fighting in a Public Place Disorderly Behavior ASP N.Rolle O.I.C of Harbour Island Police Station reported that On Saturday 28th September 2019 while driving along Colebrooke Street in the Vicinity of the Harbour Island community Clinic he observed two men known to him Fighting at the front entrance of the clinic. As a result he further reported separating both suspects and later warned them of prosecution in reference to Fighting.Howvever one of the suspects became disorderly refusing to comply with the instructions which was given to him as a result he were arrested and cautioned reference to Disorderly Behavior.

Arrest - Police reported that on 25th September at about 3:50pm he arrested and cautioned a juvenile male suspect while at his residence in Harbour Island in the presence of his mother in reference to Damage - a complaint made by a female on 21/9/19. Police conducted a record of interview with the

Suspect Interviewed Charged Dangerous Drugs A Sgt conducted an Interview at around 10:40Am on Monday 30th September 2019 with a young adult male suspect of Street Spanish Wells under caution while at the Harbour Island Police in reference to Dangerous Drugs with the Intent

Crime News to supply. He was subsequently charged with the offence contrary to section 29(6) and 29(2) B of the Dangerous Drug Act. He said nothing in reply to the Charge. Shopbreaking Report Location: North Eleuthera Information: On Sunday 15th September 2019, sometime around 8:05am, police received Information from an adult female, who reported that some unknown person/s broke and entered into a business in North Eleuthera. Actions Taken: On Sunday 15th September 2019, sometime around 8:25am, police arrived at the the business, where he saw and spoke with the store manager, who reported that sometime between 9:45pm on Saturday 14th September 2019 and 8:01am on Sunday 15th September 2019, some unknown person/s cut a hole into the rear wall of the establishment, which they used to enter the building, and stole approximately $900.00 in cash, and the DVR for the surveillance system. She further stated that she would not be able to say if any items are missing from the shelves without doing a full inventory. Police action was requested. Search Warrant Executed Location: Eleuthera Island Shores On Sunday 15th September 2019, sometime around 8:00pm, police acting on information received, executed a search warrant on the premises of a young adult male of Eleuthera Island Shores, reference to Dangerous Drugs, Stolen Property, and Firearms, with negative results. Search Warrant Executed Eleuthera Island Shores On Sunday 15th September 2019, sometime around 6:00pm, Sgt. 2175 Larrimore, Sgt. 2806 Hield, and PC 3044 Lockhart, acting on information received, executed a search warrant on the premises of a male, situated on Queens Highway, Gregoory Town, in reference to Dangerous Drugs, Stolen Property, and Firearms, with negative results. Drug Arrest Reported Queens Highway, Gregory Town Information: On Tuesday 17th September 2019, sometime around 6:00pm, police while on mobile patrol along Queens Highway, in the area of Gregory Town, observed a white vehicle with three male occupants travelling along the said road, with a broken headlight. As a result the officers stopped the said vehicle, and ordered the occupants to exit. As the front seat passenger exited

the vehicle, the officers noticed when he dropped a brown object to the ground. The item was collected and when examined, was found to contain a grassy like substance, suspected to be a quantity of marijuana. The suspect was arrested, cautioned, and gave his name and his address as Cooper’s Town, Abaco. A search was then conducted of the other two passengers, with negative results. However, while searching the vehicle, the officers found a clear plastic wrap, containing a quantity of suspected marijuana. As a result the remaining two occupants, who identified themselves as a adult male of Lower Bogue, Eleuthera, and an adult male of Hatchet Bay, Eleuthera were both cautioned and arrested for possession of dangerous drugs. On Tuesday 18th September 2019, sometime around 7:10pm, police , arrived in at the Governor’s Harbor Police Station, where they interviewed, profiled, and charged the suspects with possession of dangerous drugs. The suspects were later released on bail to appear before Governor’s Harbor Magistrate Court on 1st November 2019, at 10:00am. Causing Harm Report Bluff, Eleuthera On Friday 20th September 2019, sometime around 11:10am, an adult female of, Bluff, came into the North Eleuthera Police Station and reported that sometime around 8:00pm on Thursday `19th September 2019, her husband, told her that she must leave their home. She refused and he began beating her to the face with his hand, causing pain. She is requesting Police action. Arrest Report Bluff, Eleuthera On Friday 20th September 2019, sometime around 11:30am, police while in the area of Glass Glow Street, Bluff, arrested and cautioned an adult male suspect, of Glass Glow Street, in reference to an outstanding complaint of Stealing and Receiving. On Friday 20th September 2019, sometime around 4:20pm, while at the North Eleuthera Police Station, a Sgt cautioned and interviewed the suspect. During the interview the suspect admitted to the offence. The questions and answers were recorded on a record of interview form. The suspect was subsequently charged with the above mentioned offences.

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Minister Ferreira: ‘Historic Day’ for Environmental Legislation NASSAU, The Bahamas – Minister of the Environment and Housing the Hon. Romauld Ferreira said, on October 2, 2019, that the laying on the table of the House of Assembly “the strongest, most robust suite of environmental legislation in Bahamian history” made it an historic day. “I believe that it will go down in history as the moment we began to treat environment stewardship with the seriousness it deserves,” Minister Ferreira said in the House of Assembly. “Today marks the turning point when we say to the world this is our country and if you want to do business here you must respect our environment.” Laid on the table of the House Assembly that day were the following: Ministry of Environment Bill 2019; Environmental Planning And Protection Bill 2019; Environmental Protection (Control of Plastic Pollution) Bill 2019; The Bahamas National Trust (Amendment) Bill 2019; Bahamas Protected Areas Fund (Amendment) Bill 2019; and Tariff (Amendment) (No.2) Bill, 2019. Minister Dames noted that, in 1987 the Environmental Health Services Act was enacted. That Act, he said, established the Department of Environmental Health Sevrices (DEHS), and as indicated by the fact that it had the word health in its name, it had a public health focus. “In fact historically DEHS was a part of the Ministry of Health,” he noted. “The world has changed significantly over the 32 years since this law was enacted. We now live in a Bahamas challenged by global warming, sea level rise and climate change, hurricanes like Dorian will only be more frequent and more ferocious.” Minister Ferreira also pointed out three recent initiatives undertaken by the Government through his Ministry. He said: “We fixed the long-standing fire issues at the New Providence Sanitary Landfill. We stopped the oil leaking into the ocean at Clifton Pier. And today we close the gap in the law which allowed for unscrupulous persons to get away with damaging our environment.” “I am so honoured and humbled to table these Bills and believe history will judge us aright by what we have done today,” Minister Ferreira added. “I am so grateful for everyone who worked so hard for so long to make this moment possible, including my Cabinet Colleagues, Law Reform Commission, Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition and the countless environmental groups who gave us feedback and direction.”

his yard. He is requesting Police action. Causing Damage Arrest ReportNorth Eleuthera Police Station On Sunday 22nd September 2019, sometime around 9:50am, A Sgt. while at the N.E.P.S cautioned and arrested an adult male of Lower Bogue with regards of DamStealing Report age. On Sunday 22nd September Lower Bogue, Eleuthera 2019, sometime around 11:19am, On Friday 20th September 2019, while at the North Eleuthera Police sometime around 4:45pm, an adult Station, police cautioned and inmale of Queens Highway, Lower terviewed the suspect. During the Bogue, came to the North Eleuinterview the suspect admitted to thera Police Station and reported the offenceThe suspect was subthat sometime between Friday 13th sequently charged with the above September 2019 and Tuesday 17th mentioned offences. September 2019, two males, stole a quantity of avocados from trees in

Arrest Causing Damage case North Eleuthera Police Station On Wednesday 25th September 2019, at about 4:40pm a Sgt. while at the North Eleuthera Police Station cautioned and arrested a male of Current, Eleuthera ref to Damage. He was later interview, admitted the offence and charged. The suspect was released on bail with one surety to appear in the M.C.H.I on 30/10/19. This is in ref to a complaint made by a male of Hatchet Bay on the 24/8/19.

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Brilanders of All Ages take to the streets to Fill 160 Garbage Bags on International Coastal and World Cleanup Day press release (edited)

Rain or sunshine mattered not as members of the Harbour Island community showed pride for their Island. Brilanders came out to cleanup in honor of International Coastal Cleanup Day and World Cleanup Day on September 21st, 2019, despite the wet weather. 130 residents between the ages of 3 and 60, showed up bright and early on Bay Street to give some TLC to the island’s coasts and neighbourhoods. The event was hosted by The Bahamas Plastic Movement and Space 2 Create community centre, in partnership with Harbour Island Green School, Harbour Island District Council, Ministry of Tourism and Justin’s All Stars (a youth clean up group). Participants represented a variety of other community organisations and businesses including, Harbour Island All Age School, Dunmore Landscaping, Pink Sands Resort, Cocoa Coffee House and Mermaid Moments - Harbour Island. Cleanup crews, split into five groups and were dispatched to both coastal and inland locations around the island to document and remove waste. BPM Founder, Kristal Ambrose, commented, “These collective cleanup initiatives are vital to raising awareness and taking action against mass littering and promote pride around maintaining clean environments.” Space to Create/ Harbour Island Green School Community Outreach Coordinator, Christina Darville added, “These clean-ups restore a sense of hope. They help to unify and strengthen our community.” With many hands to make light work, common spaces

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1 (242) 332-2993 The Eleutheran, P. O. Box EL-25166, Governor’s Harbour Eleuthera, The Bahamas.

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were beautified, items that could otherwise serve as breeding areas for mosquitos were removed, and litter was prevented from entering the marine environment as a whopping 160 heavy duty bags of debris were collected. North Eleuthera Member of Parliament, Mr. Rickey Mackey kindly provided a large bin to consolidate the waste that was collected. Event hosts expressed their delight with the success of the initiative, saying, “We take care of what we love and we love our island, our nation and our planet.”

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Picture This

Truck over the edge at the Glass Window bridge before it was washed further down, during a week of high seas from the Atlantic, better known as, “The Rage”. Read the article and see the video online at www.EleutheraNews.com. Direct Link: http://eleutheranews.com/?p=21481

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LOOMING ‘Climate Refugees’ Continued from Page. 12 last. Collectively, Caribbean countries should also use their unified voting power in all the appropriate committees of the UN, particularly the Sixth Committee (the Legal Committee), the primary forum for the consideration of legal questions, to secure an agreed definition of the term, “Climate Refugee” that could be adopted in international law where it does not now exist. The term is also not endorsed by the U.N. because powerful nations, in protecting the economic interests of the oil, gas and coal industries, refuse to recognise Climate Change. Right now, the U.N. High Commission for Refugees, which operates under the 1951 Refugee Convention, contemplates refugees only in the context of conflict and or political upheaval. However, the relatively large number of refugees already created by Climate Change and the potential for greater numbers in the future,

demand that the legal recognition of a “refugee” includes persons forced to seek refuge outside of their national borders. Even as Caribbean governments should give urgent attention to seeking an international framework for addressing the problem of cross-border refugees created by climate change, they should also urgently consider what preparations they could make regionally for dealing with refugees caused by sudden disasters in neighbouring states. The sooner Caribbean governments establish a multi-disciplinary task force to consider all the aspects of dealing with rapid-onset disasters and migration flows, the better. Wishing and hoping are not options.

Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronaldsanders.com

Passing Jack Festival Committee Donates Relief Supplies for Evacuees at Camp Symonette

The Passing Jacks Festival Committee, early in October, made a donation of relief supplies to Camp Symonette in James’ Cistern, Eleuthera, which is currently housing a significant number of people evacuated from Abaco. The supplies included, water, food items, toiletries, clothing, bed linen, towels, school supplies, and others. Hurricane Dorian’s recent passage ravished the islands of Abaco and Grand Bahama, causing catastrophic damage, leaving thousands homeless and causing many people to evacuate these islands. The island of Eleuthera was spared from the wrath of this category 5 hurricane, and therefore, has been able to assist the evacuees and those who remained

on these islands. Like other organizations, members of the Passing Jacks Festival Committee, sprang into action and started securing much needed supplies for those who had fallen victim to this devastation. Supplies were donated by local and international partners and shipped to Eleuthera where hundreds of people were evacuated and are currently being housed in various locations. On hand to receive the supplies at Camp Symonette were: Rev. Carla Culmer, President of The Bahamas Conference of the Methodist guson, Mr. Jerome Swan, Mrs Lavada Church; Director of Camp Symonette, Rev. Stephanie Gotchalk; Ingraham and Mr. Livingston Parks. Mr. Addison Cooper, chairman of and Board Members including Rev. Passing Jacks Festival Committee, Godfrey Bethell, Rev. Lester Fer-

expressed his appreciation to all the donors and volunteers and pledged the continued support of the committee.

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Sept/Oct, 2019 there and assisted with a MedEvac of one of his patients... We are not here specifically for evacuees, but we are taking note wherever they are. We are here to treat anybody that needs it.” The team that morning, said Stephens, was headed to the Palmetto Point clinic and then on to the shelter at the Methodist Habitat, to talk with the evacuees there and see what their needs were. At the time of the interview, Team leader Stephens was not aware of how long they would be serving in Eleuthera, saying that it was a very fluid deployment, with the team reporting to their liaison in Nassau each evening, who communicated with the Ministry of Health. “So, we’ve been essentially going day by day with what they need,” he described. In the wake of Dorian’s passage through the Bahamas, Mr. Stephens, who claimed a personal bond, said the response of local Bahamians was inspiring, “I have personally been coming to the Bahamas since I was very small, so, I have a personal connection to this deployment, and I am not surprised in the least, but definitely find it profound how resilient and helpful, and embracing the Bahamian people are overall, regardless of the situation that is presented to them. It’s very moving.”

NYC Medics - Deployed in Eleuthera In Aftermath of Dorian BY The eleutheran news team

Two weeks after Dorian hit the northern Bahamas, mobile medical teams, trained in international disaster response were deployed thoughout several islands at the request of the Bahamian government.

Steve Stephens, A Paramedic and Team Leader with NYC Medics, was on the ground in Eleuthera on September 13th, 2019, with his team of eight medical providers, including; 4 physicians, 1 nurse and 3 paramedics, to provide emergency medical, and any general medical aid, he said, to everybody who had been affected by the disaster whether it was directly by the storm, or indirectly by people overwhelming other resources, like local clinics and hospitals. In a brief interview on the grounds at Pineapple Fields, where they were being housed, Stephens explained that NYC Medics was an international disaster response group, which deployed whenever a country requested international aid and assistance. With team activities coordinated through the Ministry of Health, Mr. Stephens said that they had been informed that there were potentially a few hundred evacuees on Eleuthera, and were concerned that they would overwhelm the local clinics. “So, we have been doing clinic assessments, and reporting that back to the Ministry of Health with the needs of the clinics here on the island, as well as seeing patients wherever necessary,” he shared. “It’s not seen in the limelight, Eleuthera, because it was not hit by the storm. So, people don’t realize the aftermath. People have to go somewhere. So, it’s important for us to be here. I’m glad we are able to find a spot where we can make a differnce and we are definitely helping,” he added. “We saw several clinics yesterday,” outlined Stephens. “We were at Spanish Wells, and we had another team at Lower Bogue. Then when we were finished at Lower Bogue, we received a message from Dr. Cho that there was an emergency at James’ Cistern. So, we came down

Picture This

Former Director of Education, Lionel Sands, honoured as he retires “Whatever I accomplished, it was because of Him! (God)” Those words were uttered by Former Director of Education, Lionel Sands, on Friday, Sept. 27th, 2019, during a retirement luncheon held in his honour by the Ministry of Education. Former colleagues, family, friends and well wishers gathered at the Baha Mar Convention Centre to pay tribute to the former director under the theme, “47 Years of

Dedicated Service to Education in The Bahamas”. In an impassioned speech Mr. Sands, a descendant of the township of Green Castle, South Eleuthera, said not only was he thankful to God for equipping him with what he needed to succeed as an educator and director, but he was also grateful for the team which supported him.Heartwarming tributes were offered in the form of music and encouraging speeches. Among those paying tribute was Minister of Education Jeffrey Lloyd who lauded Mr. Sands for his exemplary service over the years and specifically for the ability to remain professional amidst a climate of critics. Mr. Sands served as the Director of Education from 20072017.

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‘relief’ Continued from Page. 19 One couple shared the story of their desperate fight for survival during the height of Dorian’s fury, describing a frighteningly slow, five hour trip by car from their home to the airport, where they finally sought shelter. Raymond Johnson another evacuee who joined the group to Abaco, while on board, expressed his heartfelt thank you to the volunteers, saying, “I’m so glad to be here with you guys. You’ve brought me back to life and I feel like I am home right now. I want to thank you.” After braving the long overnight voyage, early on Saturday morning as the sun rose, Eleuthera volunteers got their first look at the devastation of Marsh Harbour as the Daybreak slowly pulled up alongside the main dock. Most striking was the reality that almost every building seen had some level of damage. A large vessel thrown up on to the beach next to the main port, and shipping containers cast about, like so many match boxes, attested to the catastrophic forces that had pounded the northern island. Volunteers, apprised by MP Johnson of the day’s goals and schedule before arrival, then worked together to offload pallets, sort the relief supplies into giveaway bags, and to set up a distribution tent at the Murphy Article Continued Page 44

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on the ground in abaco Continued from Page. 43

Town park, where residents in the area could come and receive a variety of relief supplies for their families, including, clothing, shoes, canned goods, toiletries, hygiene kits, water, blankets, towels, tools, toys, and many other items. Chef Pascale Burrows, of Pascal’s Oceanfront Restaurant in Governor’s Harbour, headed up a volunteer food preparation team. They not only provided meals for the volunteers during the voyage, but also prepared hundreds of breakfast and lunch meals during the Saturday on the ground in Abaco, which were served to residents in the Marsh Harbour and Murphy Town areas. Abaco Chamber of Commerce - Immediate Past President, Vardo Bootle Sr., describing the state of the island at the time of the volunteers’ visit, informed, “Currently in Abaco, we are in the mode of clean up. We are now trying to put the island in a state of readiness for the restoration that is to come. Just yesterday, there were clean up contracts signed by the government as I understand, in order to now facilitate some real movement of assets on the ground to make ready for what is ahead.” Referencing the revitalization of business in Abaco’s capital, Bootle, commented, “It’s going to take a little more than what we had previously. I think it’s going to take some foreign investment as well, partnership with Bahamians in order to get

us where we would like to be as rapidly as we would like to get back. Knowing the position that Abaco holds in the financial status of the country, it’s going to be very important that we get back on our feet as soon as possible.” In terms of the timing for commerce to get up and running on the island again, Bootle expressed that it was going to be difficult to predict. “As you are well aware, there is zero commerce at present. Before we can really even make an educated guess on that, we have to have some hardline commitments to the timelines that the government are looking at. Without those, we can’t sensibly say when. Personally, I see three to five years, and we should be well on our way to getting back to who we used to be, or even better, and I’m anticipating a lot better!” After Eleuthera volunteers set up the popup distribution center at Murphy Town’s park, several volunteer crews in trucks, drove through the surrounding townships of Murphy Town, Dundas Town and Marsh Harbour to invite the drastically reduced number of residents out to receive the relief supplies and food, which were distributed throughout the early afternoon. The drive revealed the extent of destruction in those areas, with countless homes flattened, others severely damaged, and the rare properties that sustained major, but re-

pairable damage. Some residents could be seen working to secure those homes and roofs from the elements. One fuel depot, which was the only one up and running in the area, could be seen filling up a line of vehicles as well. Main traffic arteries in Marsh Harbour and surrounding areas were cleared for vehicular traffic, however, a majority of side roads were still

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gathered back on to the MV Daybreak for what would be a fifteen hour return to Eleuthera. Despite the very rough passage going back, with a number of the team experiencing seasickness, many expressed that the trip for them had been worthwhile and fulfilling, and importantly, very eye opening to the magnitude of the loss experienced by their brothers and sisters in Abaco which highlighted the need for continued support in the months and years to come, as Abaco rebuilds.

Left: Volunteers unload supplies shipped in from Florida to be sorted and distributed at the Murphy Town Park in Central Abaco.

strewn with poles, trees, debris and downed lines, which made traversing through some neighbourhoods tricky. However, the word got out, and those residents that could get there, came and took advantage of the relief supplies and food. Later in the afternoon, supplies left were reloaded and delivered to the Central Abaco Primary School distribution center, for residents who did not have the opportunity to collect supplies on Saturday. Several local churches also received supplies to redistribute within

their communities. A local pastor, from the Church of Christ, based in Casuarina, South Abaco, who assisted with logistics and transportation during the day, commented during the event, saying that some residents had now gotten the news that it was okay to return to Abaco to review and clean up their properties, adding that the help and supplies were currently there to help residents begin to rebuild their lives. As the day drew to a close, volunteers tired, but happy to have been able to assist, Above: Pastors, ready to encourage and give counseling to Abaco residents in need. Below: Abaco residents receive welcomed relief supplies.

Left and Right: Eleuthera volunteers on board the MV Daybreak on Friday evening, September 27th, sorting essential toiletries into care packages for Abaco residents, while enroute.

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ABACO

One Month On

‘DORIAN DEVASTATION’ Continued from Page. 45

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